Discover our locals' 137 hidden gems in 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.

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City guides by those who know Cologne best!

Get to know our Spotters from Cologne

Check out our latest hidden gems in Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Neptunbad

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!

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Relaxing

By

Julia

Krakau

Jan 23, 2025
Siebter Himmel Cologne

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!

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Shopping

By

Julia

Krakau

Jan 23, 2025
Wiesenhaus Cologne

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!

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Coffee & tea
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Relaxing
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Snacks

By

Julia

Krakau

Jan 23, 2025
Melaten

Melaten – A walk through Cologne's past

Melaten Cemetery in Cologne is a peaceful, historic spot with grand gravestones and rich history. Stroll under old trees and reflect on life’s fleeting beauty.

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Art & culture

By

Julia

Krakau

Jan 23, 2025
Hennes' Finest Pfeffer Cologne

Hennes' Finest Pfeffer – From Kampot to Cologne

At Hennes Finest Pfeffer, you can also find tasting sets and gift boxes (which include recipes), as well as the punchy Red Boat Fish Sauce 40°N.

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Shopping

By

Justine

Vandendorpe

Jan 22, 2025
Bärenstark Cologne

Bärenstark – Vegan fast food

"Bärenstark" in Berlin will convince anyone about how vegan fast food can be just as tasty as regular burgers, fries etc!

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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Lea

Renner

Jan 17, 2025
Toddy Tapper Cologne

Toddy Tapper – Cocktails in Agnes Quarter

In Sri Lanka, as well as in India and Southeast Asia, they ferment the juice of the coconut flower to make a drink called toddy, hence the name of the bar.

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Bars

By

Justine

Vandendorpe

Jan 15, 2025
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Delicato – Italian grocery & bar in Ehrenfeld

Delicato is a wholesale grocer with high-quality Italian products such as cold cuts, bronze-cut pasta & oil. But not only that: it is also a kitchen bar!

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Bars
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Restaurants
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Shopping

By

Justine

Vandendorpe

Jan 14, 2025
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The Good Food – Love at second sight

Next to saving some money, the most important is: You are saving food that would have been otherwise thrown away because of either the best-to-date or how it looks.

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Shopping

By

Lea

Renner

Jan 14, 2025
Goodchild Café Cologne

Goodchild Café – Best croissant in town

"Goodchild Café" in Cologne makes the best croissants in town. There's no brunch without a pain au chocolat, but the selection here is endless...

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

By

Lea

Renner

Jan 13, 2025
KölnTriangle Cologne

KölnTriangle – Top of the block!

"KölnTriangle" provides what in my opinion is the best view of Cologne, at least in my opinion. You can see the Dome and so much more!

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

By

Stephan

Wehrle

Jan 12, 2025
Die Mehlwerkstatt Cologne

Die Mehlwerkstatt – The hipster bakery

"Die Mehlwerkstatt" in Cologne is unlike other bakeries: here they still make the dough themselves. Everything is freshly made, warm and delicious...

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Coffee & tea
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Shopping
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Snacks

By

Lea

Renner

Jan 10, 2025

Heading to Cologne?

137 Places only Locals know

Authentic Stories

Escape the Crowds

Full Access to the Cologne City Blog & App!

Just €9.99

Going to Cologne?

✓ 137 Hidden Gems only Locals know

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

✓ Full Access to the Cologne City Blog & App!

What to expect?

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

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

Our Cologne Cityguide - Made by Locals

Instantly know your way in Cologne like a local!

Experience the vibrant culture of Cologne with Spotted by Locals. Explore the historic streets of Altstadt, the trendy neighborhoods of Ehrenfeld and Belgisches Viertel, and the scenic beauty of the Rhine River. Our app offers insider recommendations on local attractions, dining spots, and cultural events, ensuring you experience the best of Germany’s fourth-largest city like a true local. Download our app and start exploring!

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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