Julia Krakau

Cologne

Spotter since 2016

About me

About me
I am a geographer and city-addict! Whenever I go on holiday, my destination is a city. From time to time I long for hiking in the countryside, but I always feel relieved to be back in an urban environment.

Cologne is the city where I was born and raised and after my studies, and some experience abroad (in France and Brazil), I came back and settled down here. Now I am quite sure, that I won’t leave anymore.

I am working as a freelance journalist and editor specialized in urban development in the area of International Development Cooperation, and I have always felt very lucky to combine my personal interests (cities!) with my professional topics.

Besides that, I have three kids and I love photography, architecture, travelling and many things more.

As a Spotter for Spotted by Locals I’ve noticed that I get a new perspective on my city. I become more attentive to the little details wayside and I wonder if my favourite café around the corner could be a highlight of someone’s stay in Cologne. I feel very happy to be part of the Spotters community and to share my insider’s tips as I am completely convinced that locals know their cities better!

Why Cologne?
Natives from Cologne love their city by nature. I admit though that there are many cities in the world which are more romantic, beautiful and picturesque. But Cologne is really a great place to be!

Most people here are kind and open-minded and so is the vibe in our city.

Off the beaten tourist tracks around the cathedral “Kölner Dom”, Cologne is rich with pleasant neighbourhoods and interesting spots which are worth being discovered.

My spots (33)

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

Nov 24, 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

Nov 24, 2025

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

Nov 24, 2025

My Shoemaker in Riehl

Support local craftsmen

Moving within your city means you can explore new neighborhoods. My new shoemaker in Cologne did a very good job fixing an old leather bag...

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Art & culture

by

Julia

Krakau

Nov 6, 2025
Perlenfischer Cologne

Perlenfischer

Beautiful gifts and stamps

Perlenfischer is a beautiful corner store has specialized in rubber stamps: flowers and leaves, fruits, animals, graphic shapes, or whole letterings.

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Shopping

by

Julia

Krakau

Nov 4, 2025

Le‘zzet

Best Turkish breakfast in Chorweiler

"Le'zzet" in Chorweiler, Cologne offers amazing Turkish breakfast! It always takes me to another world...

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Coffee & tea
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Restaurants
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Snacks

by

Julia

Krakau

Oct 30, 2025
Kalscheurer Weiher Cologne

Kalscheurer Weiher

Rowing boats and picnic place

"Kalscheurer Weiher" Cologne is a pond with a boat rental and a small kiosk in Cologne's outer green belt. For me, this place feels so down-to-earth...

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Coffee & tea
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Relaxing
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Snacks

by

Julia

Krakau

Oct 25, 2025

Büdchen am Nikolausplatz

A personal story

"Büdchen am Nikolausplatz" is the Büdchen I work at in Cologne. That's right - I'm selling sweets, ice-cream and coffee, and I couldn't be happier!

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Art & culture
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Coffee & tea

by

Julia

Krakau

Oct 18, 2025

Where to find me

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