The Belgian Quarter
Named after its streets, many of which carry the names of Belgian towns and regions, this area just west of the centre is one of Cologne's most attractive neighbourhoods. Handsome old buildings house concept stores, design boutiques, galleries and cafes. Brüsseler Platz is its social heart, and on warm evenings the square fills with people chatting outside the church.
It is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing, followed by dinner in one of the many small restaurants.
The quarter also has a lively bar scene, particularly around the weekend, and its streets are an easy walk from the city ring road and its tram stops.
Ehrenfeld
Further west, Ehrenfeld is a former industrial district that has become a hub for creative businesses, nightlife and street art. Old factories now host clubs, studios and event spaces. The area has a strong multicultural character, reflected in its grocery shops, bakeries and restaurants serving food from across the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Walk the main street, Venloer Strasse, then explore the side streets for murals and independent bars. Ehrenfeld is easily reached by tram or S-Bahn from the centre.
The Südstadt
South of the old town, the Südstadt has a relaxed, neighbourly feel with traditional pubs, cafes and a strong local identity. It stretches down towards the Rhine, where the modern Rheinauhafen development has converted old harbour buildings into offices and apartments, alongside three striking crane-shaped towers.
The riverside promenade here is a pleasant place for a walk, and it leads back to the chocolate museum and the old town.
Making the most of it
These neighbourhoods are best explored slowly, on foot or by bike. Renting a bike for a day lets you link them up and follow the Rhine for part of the way. If you are staying several nights, consider booking a hotel in one of these areas rather than near the station, for a more local experience.
Many shops in Germany close on Sundays, so plan your browsing for weekdays or Saturdays, and save Sunday for cafes, parks and the riverside.
Another area worth a detour is Nippes, a little north of the centre, with a large daily market square and a friendly, residential atmosphere. It is a good place to see how people in Cologne actually live and shop.
Good to know
- Visit Brüsseler Platz on a summer evening for the best atmosphere.
- Look up Ehrenfeld's event spaces for concerts and club nights.
- Shops in Cologne mostly close on Sundays.