Altstadt-Süd: The Historic Heartbeat of Cologne

Altstadt-Süd: Explore Cologne's historic heart, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy along the scenic Rhine River.

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Altstadt-Süd

Altstadt-Süd, the southern part of Cologne's Old Town, is a mesmerizing blend of history and modern charm. This neighbourhood is a tapestry of narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively squares that transport you back in time. The iconic Cologne Cathedral, with its towering spires, is a sight to behold and a starting point for many visitors. Wander through the streets and discover an array of boutique shops, quaint cafes, and traditional German beer halls. The area is also home to several museums, including the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, which houses an impressive collection of fine art, and the Romano-Germanic Museum, where you can delve into the city's Roman past. Altstadt-Süd is not just about historical landmarks; it is also a vibrant hub for nightlife and dining. From traditional Kölsch beer to gourmet international cuisine, the neighbourhood offers a diverse culinary experience. The scenic Rhine River runs alongside, providing picturesque views and a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or boat ride. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or foodie, Altstadt-Süd has something to captivate every visitor. Its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy makes it a must-visit destination in Cologne.

Local tips in Altstadt-Süd

Visit the Cologne Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Take a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the area.
Try the local Kölsch beer at one of the traditional beer halls.
Use public transport or rent a bike; the narrow streets are best explored without a car.
Don't miss the evening lights along the Rhine for a romantic view.

Datei:Cologne Germany Exterior-view-of-Cologne-Cathedral-05.jpg – Wikipedia

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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old Market

Discover the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Cologne's Old Market, a must-visit destination for every traveler exploring Germany.

Hahnentor

Discover the historic Hahnentor in Cologne, a stunning medieval gate that embodies the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Rheinauhafen

Experience the perfect blend of modern architecture and rich history at Rheinauhafen, a vibrant waterfront destination in Cologne.

Ulrepforte

Explore Ulrepforte, a historical landmark in Cologne, where rich history meets vibrant city life, perfect for tourists seeking culture and beauty.

Römerturm

Discover the Römerturm, Cologne's historical landmark that reveals the city's Roman heritage and architectural marvels, perfect for history-loving tourists.

Malakoffturm

Explore the historic Malakoffturm in Cologne, a stunning landmark offering rich heritage and breathtaking views of the Rhine River.

Ubii Monument

Explore the Ubii Monument in Cologne: A fascinating historical landmark that showcases the city's rich Roman heritage and captivating architecture.

Overstolzenhaus

Explore Overstolzenhaus, a historical landmark in Cologne showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage, perfect for history lovers and curious travelers.

blue heart

Explore the enchanting Blue Heart in Cologne, a captivating artistic installation that offers a unique blend of beauty and tranquility in the heart of the city.

Arnold-von-Siegen-Brunnen

Discover the beauty and history of Arnold-von-Siegen-Brunnen, a charming fountain in the vibrant city of Cologne, perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.

Unmissable attractions to see

Schnütgen Museum

Explore the Schnütgen Museum in Cologne, a local history museum showcasing exquisite medieval art and artifacts in a serene Romanesque setting.

Ubii Monument

Discover the Ubii Monument in Cologne, a historical landmark showcasing the city's rich Roman heritage and cultural significance.

Rheintor der mittelalterlichen Stadtmauer

Discover the Rheintor, a stunning remnant of Cologne's medieval city wall, where history and architecture come together in a captivating experience.

Essential places to dine

Gilden im Zims “Heimat kölscher Helden”

Discover authentic German cuisine and craft beers at Gilden im Zims, Cologne's lively beer hall steeped in local tradition.

Ristorante Toscanini

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Toscanini in Cologne, where pizza and pasta come together in a warm and inviting setting.

Ristorante il Tartufo - Köln

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante il Tartufo in Köln - where every dish tells a story.

Restaurant Mama Leone

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Mama Leone in Cologne - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Haus Müller

Experience authentic German cuisine at Haus Müller, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Cologne.

Mederrano

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Mederrano in Cologne – where every meal is a celebration of taste.

Ox & Klee - Köln

Experience culinary artistry at Ox & Klee - where traditional German flavors meet modern fine dining excellence in Cologne.

Maison Blue

Experience authentic French cuisine at Maison Blue in Cologne—where culinary excellence meets elegant ambiance.

Sahila - The Restaurant

Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Sahila, Cologne's fine dining jewel offering elegant dishes and delightful desserts.

SAL'S KITCHEN

Discover Sal's Kitchen in Cologne: A culinary journey through hamburgers, steaks, sushi, and vegetarian delights.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

GALERIA Kaufhof

Explore GALERIA Kaufhof in Cologne for a delightful shopping experience with a wide variety of products and exceptional service.

Urban Outfitters

Discover the latest trends in fashion and home decor at Urban Outfitters Cologne, where eclectic styles meet urban culture.

G-Star RAW Store

Explore G-Star RAW Store in Cologne for stylish denim, trendy clothing, and unique fashion accessories in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

intothevibes

Explore intothevibes in Cologne for a captivating selection of vintage clothing, where each piece tells a story and highlights sustainable fashion.

INDIAN CENTER

Explore the vibrant world of Indian culture with unique gifts, costume jewelry, and clothing at the Indian Center in Cologne.

kölnknipse - schöne fotos im quadrat

Explore the heart of Cologne through unique, locally crafted gifts and art at the charming Kölnknipse gift shop.

OM Ganesha Indische Bekleidung & Bollywood Mode

Explore OM Ganesha in Cologne for a vibrant selection of Indian clothing and Bollywood fashion, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India.

Still Love

Discover unique fashion and artisanal paper goods at Still Love, a charming boutique in the heart of Cologne's Innenstadt.

LANIUS Store Innenstadt

Explore sustainable elegance at LANIUS Store Innenstadt, a premier destination for chic women's clothing in the heart of Cologne.

Boutique 60 First & Secondhand Mode

Explore sustainable fashion and unique styles at Boutique 60 First & Secondhand Mode in Cologne, a must-visit for fashion lovers.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Copper Pot - Köln

Experience the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Copper Pot, a lively Irish pub in the heart of Cologne with cocktails, live music, and a cozy atmosphere.

Iron Cocktail Lounge

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture of Cologne at Iron Cocktail Lounge, where expertly crafted drinks meet a stylish ambiance.

Sonderbar - Köln

Discover the heart of Cologne's nightlife at Sonderbar: a vibrant pub and beer haven in the city's bustling Innenstadt district.

BAR BOTANIK

Experience the enchanting ambiance and exquisite cocktails at Bar Botanika, a premier bar in Cologne perfect for relaxation and socializing.

im Schnörres

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cologne at im Schnörres, where delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.

Garage-Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Garage-Bar in Cologne, where creative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

Papa Rudis - Köln

Discover the lively atmosphere and local brews at Papa Rudis, Cologne's must-visit pub for a memorable night out.

Fiffibar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cologne at Fiffibar, a cozy bar offering a unique blend of eclectic decor and delicious drinks.

nullzwo

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cologne at nullzwo, a welcoming pub perfect for socializing and enjoying local brews.

Piano Bar

Discover the enchanting Piano Bar in Cologne, where signature cocktails, live music, and a chic atmosphere create a perfect nightlife experience.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Altstadt-Süd

Discover Altstadt-Süd with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf VEE-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-teh]
- Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-SHOOL-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee geht es in-en]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [goot oont in-en]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpreck-en zee eng-leesh]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [eekh fer-shtay-eh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [eekh hah-teh gehr-neh dee shpahy-zuh-kar-teh, bit-teh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [eekh ess-eh kine flysh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [eekh merk-teh bit-teh tsah-len]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
- Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [gay-en zee vegg]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen ahrts]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [eekh hah-beh meesh feh-reet]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [eekh been krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [eekh merk-teh kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [eekh shou-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kost-et es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoy toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [ker-nen zee den price zank-en]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpet ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsehn]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [gehs-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [ines]
- 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
- 3Drei
  [dry]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Fünf
  [foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [zex]
- 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [ahkt]
- 9Neun
  [noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [tsehn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-dreh-suh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir das zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [ker-nen zee meer dahs tsie-gen (owf dehr kar-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kommt dehr nekhs-teh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [i-ne fahr-kahr-teh (nahkh)]

History of Altstadt-Süd

The history of Altstadt-Süd can be traced back to the Roman era when Cologne, known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, was established around 50 AD. The area was an essential part of the Roman settlement, featuring significant structures like the Roman city wall, portions of which can still be seen today. The remnants of Roman baths and the impressive remnants of the Roman amphitheater highlight the neighborhood's ancient significance.
During the medieval period, Altstadt-Süd began to flourish as a commercial hub, benefiting from its proximity to the Rhine River and the trading routes that passed through Cologne. The construction of the Great St. Martin Church in the 10th century marked a significant religious and architectural development, symbolizing the neighborhood's growing importance in the ecclesiastical landscape of the time.
In the 13th century, Cologne became a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful economic alliance of merchant towns. This development propelled Altstadt-Süd into a new era of prosperity. The neighborhood became a bustling center for trade and commerce, with merchants and craftsmen setting up shops along the streets, contributing to the vibrant urban culture that characterized Cologne during this period.
The devastation of World War II significantly affected Altstadt-Süd, with extensive bombing leading to the destruction of many historical buildings. The reconstruction efforts post-war were crucial in restoring the cultural heritage of the area. Notable landmarks, including the Great St. Martin Church, were meticulously rebuilt, reflecting the community's resilience and dedication to preserving its historical identity.
In recent years, Altstadt-Süd has experienced a cultural renaissance, with numerous art galleries, cafes, and cultural events revitalizing the neighborhood. The establishment of the Cologne Carnival as a significant cultural event has further solidified the area's reputation as a vibrant cultural center. This transformation showcases the blend of historical significance and contemporary cultural dynamism that defines Altstadt-Süd today.

Altstadt-Süd Essentials

Altstadt-Süd is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Cologne. The main train station, Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station), is just a short walk away. From there, take the U-Bahn (subway) lines 16 or 18 towards Bonn or Königsdorf and disembark at the 'Heumarkt' or 'Poststraße' stations. Buses also serve the area; several routes connect Altstadt-Süd with other parts of the city. If you are arriving from Cologne Bonn Airport, the S-Bahn line S13 will take you directly to the city center, where you can transfer to the U-Bahn or walk to Altstadt-Süd.
Altstadt-Süd is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. For public transportation, the U-Bahn and trams are efficient options, with various stops in the area. Bicycles can be rented from numerous bike-sharing services available throughout the city, and cycling is a popular way to navigate the flat terrain. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available if you prefer not to use public transport.
Altstadt-Süd is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly around popular tourist attractions like the Cologne Cathedral and the Old Town squares. Areas near the main train station and some side streets may experience higher crime rates; exercise caution at night and avoid poorly lit areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for medical assistance or fire services. For police-related issues, you can call 110. There are several hospitals and clinics in the area, including the Klinikum Köln and St. Vincentius Hospitals. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest pharmacy for minor health issues, as many are open late and on weekends.
Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Avoid overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices; be quiet and respectful in places of worship. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and keep it handy for inspections. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' and a smile. Don't be overly familiar; a handshake is sufficient. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Kölsch beer and Halver Hahn. Don't waste food; it's considered disrespectful to leave uneaten food at the table.
To experience Altstadt-Süd like a local, explore the vibrant street markets, particularly the 'Alter Markt' where you can find artisanal products and local delicacies. Visit the many breweries and taverns to enjoy authentic Kölsch beer. Engage with locals by joining a guided walking tour, which often shares insights into the city’s rich history. For a unique perspective, take a boat trip along the Rhine River, offering stunning views of the cityscape.

Altstadt-Süd: The Historic Heartbeat of Cologne

Local tips in Altstadt-Süd