Cologne is one of those cities that doesn’t try to impress anyone, yet somehow completely does. It’s warm, a bit scruffy in places, bursting with history, and brilliant for anyone who loves exploring without blowing their budget. This list of cheap things to do in Cologne isn’t just a generic ‘how to’ – this is my tried and tested itinerary that will immerse you into the heart of this wonderful city. You’ve got ancient Roman foundations under your feet, medieval towers peeking between modern blocks, a river that ties the whole place together, and a skyline ruled by the mighty Cologne Cathedral.
When I told my aunt I was going to Cologne for the first time, she lit up. She said my granny had taken her there when she was a little girl. She remembered craning her neck back until she couldn’t go any further, staring up at the Cologne Cathedral, completely awestruck by how huge it felt. That memory clearly stayed with her. And, when I finally stood at the foot of the Dom myself, I instantly got what she meant. The thing is monstrous and magical at the same time. And, it’s humming with centuries of stories.
When I came back home and told her about it, it felt like we’d shared a tiny pilgrimage across decades. She passed away not long after, and I’m so grateful I got to connect that memory with her. Little travel moments like that stay with you. I’ve been back in Cologne a few times, and I always make a point of visiting the Kolner Dom to pay my respects.
Above: Day or night, Kölner Dom will impress you. Standing at 515 ft and still stoot tall even after suffered fourteen hits by aerial bombs during WW2, it’s a must for your ‘Cheap things to do in Cologne’ list.
Where to stay in Cologne
Before you jump into Cologne and tackle my list of cheap things to do in Cologne below, let’s find you a place to stay, shall we?
Hilton Cologne
If you want zero hassle and maximum convenience, the Hilton Cologne is honestly spot on. It’s right beside the Cathedral, right beside the station, right beside the Old Town. You can basically roll out of bed straight into sightseeing.
It’s not the cheapest on the list but if you want a reliable, comfortable base where everything is walkable, it’s a strong pick. I’ve stayed here twice on my travels to Cologne, and can vouch for the hotel for a decent sleep, proximity to everything, and friendly staff. Plus, this hotel is right in the centre of our list of cheap things to do in Cologne, so you couldn’t have a handier base.
You may remember our disastorous attempt to find a cheap local hotel in Cairo, that resulted in us leaving after one night’s stay, and making our way to the fabulous Hilton Ramses in Cairo. If there’s one thing I cannot fault Hilton on, it’s consistent quality. I’ve never had a less than perfect stay at any Hilton hotel.
ibis Koeln Centrum
If you want to keep a bit more cash for all the fun stuff, ibis Koeln Centrum is a solid shout. It’s simpler and more stripped back than the Hilton, but it does the job nicely. Rooms are clean, beds are comfy, and you’re still close enough to wander into the centre without breaking a sweat. It’s located in the most perfect spot to drop your bags, freshen up and get straight back out into the city. Perfect if you’d rather spend your euros on museums, riverside walks and a few extra glasses of Kölsch instead of a pricier room.
Altstadt on a budget
If you’re keeping tight control of your spending, try staying in Altstadt Nord. You’re close to the river, the Cathedral, the museums, and loads of cheap eats. There are hostels, little family-run hotels, and guesthouses that give great value. You’re in the heart of things without the usual city-centre madness.
Eigelstein for local vibes
Eigelstein is a brilliant neighbourhood for anyone who wants to feel like they’re living in the city rather than visiting it. You’ll find Turkish bakeries, kebab shops, community cafés, smoky bars where locals settle in for the evening, and everyday life happening on the pavements. Accommodation here tends to be cheaper, and the area is an easy walk to the centre.
Südstadt for coffee lovers
If you like low-key charm, leafy streets, indie cafés and brunch spots, Südstadt is for you. It’s relaxed, friendly, and great for travellers who like a slower pace. You’ll still be close enough to the main sights, but out of the way just enough to breathe.
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Cheap Things to do in Cologne
Cheap things to do in Cologne that absolutely deliver
Here we go. Your essential list of cheap things to do in Cologne, all tried, tested and absolutely ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
1. Grab a Kölsch beer like a local
Kölsch is Cologne’s pride and joy. It’s refreshing, light, and served in tiny 200 ml glasses that make you wonder just how many you’ve had. Luckily for you, your Köbes (waiter) will keep a tally on your coaster, so you can quickly see the damage. The trick is simple. When you’re finished, put your coaster on top. If you don’t, they’ll keep the refills coming, no questions asked – which after a long sitting, maybe isn’t exactly in the spirit of finding cheap things to do in Cologne. It’s very charming and very Cologne.
Top tip: try a traditional brauhaus for the full experience. The atmosphere alone is worth it.
2. Get the best view in the city at KölnTriangle
Next up on our list of cheap things to do in Cologne: Views for days! Head across the river to KölnTriangle in Deutz. For a few euros, you can take the lift to the top and walk around the open-air viewing platform. You get a stunning panorama of the Cathedral, the Rhine, the Hohenzollern Bridge, all of it. Go near sunset and thank me later.
If you’ve only got the energy for one climb, I’d pick KölnTriangle over the Cologne Cathedral every time. The reason? When you’re on top of the Cathedral, you’re looking at the Triangle, but when you’re up the Triangle, you’re staring straight at that unbelievable Cathedral skyline. As Karl Pilkington once put it, I’d rather live in a cave with a view of a palace than live in a palace with a view of a cave
3. Walk Hohenzollern Bridge and check out the love locks
You can’t visit Cologne without walking across this bridge. It’s free todo so absolutely deserves a place on this list of cheap things to do in Cologne. The whole thing is coated in love locks from couples all over the world. It’s a bit cheesy but in a charming way. Halfway across, turn back and look at the Cathedral. That’s the postcard shot. Cross to the Deutz side for even better angles and plenty of space to take photos.
4. Stroll along the Rhine Boulevard
This is one of the simplest cheap things to do in Cologne and honestly one of the best. Grab a takeaway beer or ice cream and follow the walkway along the river. The city feels different from here. Calmer, slower, more personal. If the weather’s good, you’ll see locals sunbathing, cyclists weaving through, musicians busking, and families just enjoying life.
5. Hang out in Alter Markt
Alter Markt is the beating heart of Cologne, one of those squares that makes you happy to be in. It’s colourful, it’s lively, and it’s a great place to perch for a while and watch the city go by. If you’re on a budget, you don’t need to sit at a pricey terrace. Grab a snack from a nearby bakery and soak up the atmosphere for free.
6. Wander Agnesviertel
If you want to go slightly off the tourist track, Agnesviertel is a quiet, beautiful neighbourhood with chilled cafés, indie boutiques, and leafy streets. It’s ideal for a slow morning wander or a coffee stop when you want to qdd a little local flavour to your list of things to do in Cologne
7. Have a classic brauhaus evening
A traditional brauhaus is where Cologne shines. Rough wooden tables, clinking glasses, fast-moving servers, local families chatting away, and a proper lively buzz. You don’t need a plan. Drop in, sit where there’s space, and let the evening unfold. It’s one of the cheapest nights out you can have in the city.
Cheap eats in Cologne
Brauhaus classics
Schnitzel, bratwurst, potato salad, sauerkraut, roast pork, dumplings. Proper hearty German comfort food. Most mains sit around €12 to €16, and portions are generous. Pair with Kölsch and you’re sorted.
Turkish street food in Eigelstein
Cologne has a big Turkish community and it shows in the food. You’ll find incredible döner, dürüm wraps, grilled meats, falafel and mezze between €6 and €10. Quick, filling, affordable, and honestly some of the tastiest stuff in the city.
Currywurst stands
You’ll spot these little kiosks dotted around the Old Town. Grab a currywurst and chips for around €5-€7. It’s messy, spicy, iconic and a great way to fill up between attractions.
Bakeries for breakfast
Cologne’s bakeries are elite. Warm pretzels, buttered rolls, flaky pastries, chocolate croissants and filled sandwiches for €2 to €4. Start your day with a bakery run then head to the Rhine for a peaceful breakfast-with-a-view moment.
Belgian Quarter cafés
If you want something a little trendier but not expensive, the Belgian Quarter has loads of cafés doing soups, toasties, salads and pastries. You can expect to pay €8 to €12 for a decent lunch.
Drinks and nightlife in Cologne
Kölsch culture
Every trip to Cologne needs an evening in a Kölsch pub. It’s communal, easy-going, and guaranteed fun. The beers are small so you never end up with a warm pint and there’s enough space to allow conversations to flow naturally.
Belgian Quarter bars
This area is your spot for well-made cocktails, stylish but relaxed bars, and people who dress nice but don’t act like they’re at an audition. Cocktails usually hit around €10 to €14, which is decent for a European city.
Ehrenfeld for late nights
Ehrenfeld is where Cologne gets creative. Graffiti, experimental music, techno clubs, warehouse-style venues, and bars that stay open long after you thought they might close. It’s not touristy and that’s exactly what makes it worth the trip.
Riverside vibes
If your budget is tight, grab a beer from a kiosk and join the locals sitting by the Rhine as the city lights come on. It’s simple, peaceful, and honestly one of the best nights you can have here.
Bermuda Triangle
Cologne’s LGBTQ+ scene centres on the Bermuda Triangle, the cluster of streets around Schaafenstrasse. It’s compact, friendly and easy to wander. You’ll find long-standing bars like ExCorner and busy street spots like Hennes Terrace where people spill outside with drinks and the vibe stays upbeat through the night. Great for a quick drink or a full night out, no fuss – no hassle.
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Practical info – Cheap Things To Do In Cologne
What to know before you go
- Currency: Euro.
- Transport: Trams, buses, bike shares and trains are reliable and easy to use. The city centre is incredibly walkable.
- Language: German, but English is widely understood.
- When to visit: Spring and early autumn are ideal. Summer is lively. Winter is Christmas market heaven but cold. Winter 2025 promises 18 different Christmas markets in the city.
- Safety: Generally safe. Normal city awareness is enough.
- Events: Cologne hosts big trade fairs. Hotel prices jump on those weeks, so check ahead.
- Weather: Changeable. Bring layers and something waterproof.
- Plugs: European two-pin.
FAQs – Cheap Things To Do in Cologne
Is Cologne expensive?
Not really, especially when compared with larger German cities. You can easily explore on a budget if you stick to local food and free attractions.
How many days do I need?
Two or three. Enough to see the Cathedral, wander the river, complete this list of cheap things to do in Cologne, check a couple of neighbourhoods and have a proper night out.
Do I need cash?
Some places still prefer it, especially smaller bars or bakeries. It’s good to carry a little.
Is Cologne good for solo travellers?
Absolutely. It’s friendly, safe and packed with cafés, brauhauses and things to do alone.
Can I do day trips?
Definitely. Bonn, Düsseldorf and the Rhine Valley are all close.
Oh, and if you’re going to Düsseldorf, you may want to remember that Cologne and Düsseldorf have a long-running, mostly harmless rivalry that locals love to lean into. It’s playful, never hostile, and usually comes down to two things. First, the cities insist they’re nothing alike. Second, the beer wars. Cologne swears by its crisp, light Kölsch, poured in those slim glasses and delivered at speed. Düsseldorf fires back with its darker, maltier Altbier. Order an Alt in Cologne and you’ll get some dramatic side-eye. Order a Kölsch in Düsseldorf and you’ll hear a few theatrical groans. It’s all part of the fun. If you’re doing both cities in one trip, have a glass of each and decide for yourself then keep your verdict quiet unless you want to start an argument.
TL;DR – Cheap Things To Do in Cologne
- Cologne is a friendly, historic, budget-friendly city with loads of personality.
- Stay central or pick a neighbourhood like Eigelstein or Südstadt for local vibes.
- Cheap things to do in Cologne: Kölsch tasting, KölnTriangle view, Rhine strolls, Alter Markt, Hohenzollern Bridge.
- Eat cheap at bakeries, Turkish spots, and classic brauhaus kitchens.
- Nights out range from relaxed Kölsch pubs to trendy Belgian Quarter bars.
- Bring layers, carry a bit of cash, and don’t forget the coaster trick.
Why you can trust this Cheap Things To Do in Cologne Travel Guide
Written by me, Ryan. I’ve visited Cologne and Germany multiple times over the past 18 years and explored over 250 cities across 40+ countries across the world. This Cologne travel guide is based entirely on my first-hand experience of exploring the city on a budget. I’ve spent my time in the city seeking out the very best cheap things to do in Cologne. All prices and details reflect our latest trip and are subject to change.
Last Updated on 3 months ago by Ryan | Irish Travel Addict
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