Discover our locals' 139 hidden gems in Cologne
City Guide made by Locals from Cologne.
Los geht's! Join us to explore Cologne's hidden treasures with Spotted by Locals! From secret breweries in Ehrenfeld to quaint corners in the Belgisches Viertel, our Spotters share their favourite spots, helping you experience the city's true character.
Our Spotters from Cologne:
Know your way in Cologne like a local.
Spotted by Locals
✓ Discover Cologne through the eyes of a local!
✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks
✓ Our locals share their personal favorite spots in Cologne
Check out our latest hidden gems in Cologne
Our latest Spots in Cologne
Köski
Τhe "royal" Büdchen
Köski in Cologne is a real gem. Charlotte has taken this Büdchen, or kiosk, and made it into something else. I want to buy something every time I visit.
by
Julia
Krakau
I Promise You A Rose Garden
Green gem on Fort X
An impressive secret rose garden in one of Cologne's best-preserved pieces of fortification — now a public park that's my perfect outdoor getaway...
by
Julia
Krakau
Trattoria Salento
Italian restaurant in Ehrenfeld
Trattoria Salento is a cozy Italian restaurant with a covered terrasse and as they cook with seasonal and fresh ingredients, the menu changes every day.
by
Justine
Vandendorpe
Daisys Cafe
Full English in Zündorf
Daisys Traditional Afternoon Tea consists of a pot of tea, salmon and cucumber sandwiches, a sultana scone, strawberry jam, clotted cream, and small cakes.
by
Justine
Vandendorpe
Stuntwerk
Bouldering in Mülheim
What I really enjoy about Stuntwerk is that there is a lot of space, new routes weekly, and there are eight levels of difficulty, from easy to difficult.
by
Justine
Vandendorpe
Am Hornpottweg
Nature reserve in Dünnwald
Am Hornpottweg is also considered a resting area for migratory birds. If you are lucky, you might also spot some common toads or Eurasian tree frogs.
by
Justine
Vandendorpe
Wiesenhaus
Minimalists meet long-term campers
Café Uferglück in Cologne’s Poll district offers breakfast, waffles, and Rhine views. Explore the tiny house lifestyle or book one for a serene staycation!
by
Julia
Krakau
Neptunbad
Holidays in Ehrenfeld!
Neptunbad in Cologne is a stunning art nouveau spa with Japanese-inspired saunas, rooftop zen gardens, and an amazing pool. Perfect for relaxation year-round!
by
Julia
Krakau
Meister Gerhard am Rathenauplatz
Tapas and wine
Meister Gerhard am Rathenauplatz is one of my favorite restaurants for the evening in Cologne. Always a good choice for good Mediterranean tapas.
by
Julia
Krakau
Siebter Himmel
Booklovers' heaven
Siebter Himmel in Cologne’s Belgisches Viertel is a booklover’s heaven. Spacious rooms offer books, design goods, and Finnish fashion. A must-visit for browsing bliss!
by
Julia
Krakau
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What to do in Cologne?
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139 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Authentic & Unbiased Content
Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
Go off the Beaten Path Gems
We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
Responsible Travel
Hi! Nice to meet you.
We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.
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