A Guide to Eating and Drinking in Cologne
- Cologne Information
- Eating & drinking in Cologne
- Getting around in Cologne
- Things to do in Cologne
- Where to stay in Cologne
- Cologne street map
When it comes to drinking, the night owl will not be disappointed in Cologne. Famous for its bars and beer, the city has an appropriately large range of nocturnal haunts waiting to be discovered.
Cologne is said to have more bars per capita than any other city in Germany and, in a country proud of its beer drinking culture, that is saying something indeed. However, the city isn't just about drinking and there are a wide range of restaurants and cafes scattered across the center.
From international fare such as Turkish and Chinese to traditional 'café und kuche' (coffee and cake), Cologne has something to suit most tastes and budgets. One of the region's most popular dishes is 'himmel un aad,' which consists of black pudding, potatoes and apple sauce.
The Altstadt (between the Dom and Heumarkt) has a handful of good venues serving a variety of European cuisine along with plenty of the local brew, Kolsch. The main square, Rathenauplatz, is perhaps best avoided by budget travelers as prices can be on the high side thanks to its central - and scenic - location.
However, the Altstadt is the top spot to find both traditional drinking establishments and the pick of Cologne's 20 theatres, the City Theatre in Offenbachplatz.
To the south of the city, Chlodwigplatz also has some authentic beer halls, whilst the Hohenzollernring (west of Aldstadt) is home to the city's big nightclubs. Here, the Belgian and Friesen quarters are the most lively districts in Cologne and popular for their live music and DJs. With a thoroughly modern vibe, these are the places to head for an energetic - and less old-fashioned, beer-orientated - night out.
Travelers on a tight budget will find the cheapest eating and drinking on offer in the Lateng quarter, to the south west of the city along the Zülpicherstrasse. This part of Cologne caters mostly to a youthful crowd and has a multitude of inexpensive student haunts, from clubs to restaurants.
Whether its a quick pint, live jazz or hearty German cuisine, Cologne always delivers. It may not be the most budget-friendly city (like much of Western Europe) but a meal and a night out here is typically an affordable - and enjoyable - experience.
