Nippes: Cologne's Hidden Gem of Culture and Charm

Explore Nippes in Cologne: A vibrant neighborhood brimming with culture, history, and local charm, perfect for a genuine and relaxed tourist experience.

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Nestled just north of Cologne's bustling city center, Nippes is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers tourists a delightful mix of culture, history, and local flair. This area is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those looking to experience the authentic side of Cologne away from the more tourist-heavy spots. Stroll through the lively Wilhelmplatz, the heart of Nippes, where the weekly market bursts with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. This market is a favorite among locals and provides a genuine taste of everyday life in Cologne. Don't miss the chance to sample some traditional German street food while you're there. Nippes is also home to lush green spaces like the cozy Nippeser Tälchen park, where you can enjoy a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. This park is ideal for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or simply relaxing under the trees. For those interested in architecture and history, the neighborhood boasts beautiful old buildings and churches that tell the story of Cologne's rich past. Art lovers will find Nippes particularly appealing, with its numerous galleries and creative spaces showcasing both local and international artists. The eclectic mix of shops and boutiques along Neusser Straße provides ample opportunities for unique shopping experiences, from vintage finds to contemporary fashion. In the evening, Nippes comes alive with a myriad of dining options. Whether you're in the mood for traditional German cuisine, international flavors, or modern fusion dishes, you'll find something to satisfy your palate. The neighborhood's bars and cafes offer a cozy and welcoming environment to unwind with a drink and mingle with locals.

Local tips in Nippes

Visit Wilhelmplatz market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays for the freshest produce and local delicacies.
Take a relaxing stroll in Nippeser Tälchen park to enjoy some green space and tranquility.
Explore Neusser Straße for unique shopping experiences, from vintage shops to contemporary boutiques.
Try traditional German dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Check out local art galleries and creative spaces to discover the vibrant artistic scene in Nippes.

File:Cycas thouarsii - Flora park - Cologne, Germany - DSC00749.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Köln-Nippes Neußer Straße (Flight over Cologne).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:4711 Köln Hbf, 2014 (03).JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln

Discover a world of botanical beauty and historical charm at Cologne's Flora und Botanischer Garten, a serene oasis offering diverse landscapes and captivating plant collections.

Fort X

Explore Cologne's Fort X: A historic Prussian fortress transformed into a vibrant park with a beautiful rose garden, offering a unique blend of history and nature.

Nippeser Tälchen

Discover Nippeser Tälchen, a green oasis in Cologne's vibrant Nippes district, offering a tranquil escape with a water playground, sports facilities, and the historic Altenberger Hof.

Bunker Köln Nippes - Luftschutz- Leitstelle des Reichsbahn- Ausbesserungswerkes (RAW)

Explore Cologne's wartime history at the Bunker Köln Nippes, a preserved air raid shelter offering a glimpse into life during World War II and serving as a reminder of resilience.

nichtsbox

Discover innovative art installations and cultural expressions at nichtsbox in Cologne's Innenstadt, a unique space challenging conventional notions and sparking dialogue within the city's vibrant art scene.

Wetterpilz im Nordpark

Discover the whimsical Wetterpilz in Cologne's Nordpark, a charming concrete mushroom offering shelter and a touch of retro delight in a green urban oasis.

Liegefläche

Discover Liegefläche, a serene garden oasis in Cologne's Nippes, offering a tranquil escape and a taste of local community life amidst lush greenery and a welcoming atmosphere.

Brücke Nordpark

Escape the city bustle at Brücke Nordpark in Cologne's Nippes, offering serene views, recreational activities, and a connection to the city's green belt for a refreshing outdoor experience.

Kunst im öffentlichen Raum

Explore Cologne's urban landscape through its captivating public art, where sculptures and installations transform streets and parks into an open-air gallery, reflecting the city's vibrant culture and history.

Unmissable attractions to see

Museum Ludwig

Discover contemporary creativity at Museum Ludwig, Cologne's premier destination for modern art enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Elephant House in Cologne Zoological Garden

Explore the Elephant House in Cologne Zoological Garden, a captivating destination showcasing the beauty of Asian elephants in a naturalistic setting.

Sonnenuhr

Explore the enchanting Sonnenuhr, a beautiful sundial in Cologne's Nippes district, where art, history, and community converge.

Brücke Nordpark

Experience the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Brücke Nordpark, a serene tourist attraction in the heart of Cologne.

Gedenkbrunnen

Discover Gedenkbrunnen, a tranquil memorial fountain in Cologne's Nippes district, perfect for reflection and relaxation amid the city's vibrant culture.

Kunst im öffentlichen Raum

Discover the vibrant public art scene at Kunst im öffentlichen Raum, a must-visit cultural destination in Cologne showcasing diverse artistic expressions.

Alpinumweiher

Experience the serene beauty of Alpinumweiher, a tranquil oasis in Cologne perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.

Denkmal Kaiserin Augusta

Explore the rich history of Cologne at the Denkmal Kaiserin Augusta, a serene monument surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Essential places to dine

Hornochse

Discover Hornochse: A hamburger paradise in Cologne's Nippes district offering delectable American fast food experiences.

Rosenrot

Experience authentic European cuisine at Rosenrot in Cologne's vibrant Nippes district—where tradition meets contemporary flair.

Zum Kornbrenner

Discover Zum Kornbrenner: A premier beer hall in Cologne offering craft brews, hearty German dishes, and Mediterranean delights in a vibrant atmosphere.

Haus Schnackertz

Discover authentic German cuisine at Haus Schnackertz in Cologne's charming Nippes district—where flavor meets tradition.

Jamas Griechische Taverne - Köln

Experience the flavors of Greece at Jamas Griechische Taverne in Cologne – where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality.

Bisù Nippes

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bisù Nippes - where every meal is a journey through Italy's rich culinary heritage.

Gaziantep Altıntepsi

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Gaziantep Altıntepsi in Cologne - where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through Turkey.

Gasthaus im 1/4

Experience authentic German cuisine at Gasthaus im 1/4 in Cologne’s Nippes district - a culinary journey you won't forget.

a comer!

Experience authentic Latin American cuisine at A Comer!, Cologne's vibrant tapas bar offering delightful dishes and cocktails in a warm atmosphere.

Lamia Restaurant

Discover authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Lamia Restaurant in Cologne – where every dish tells a story.

Fink - restaurant cafe.

Discover Fink: A cozy restaurant café in Nippes serving delightful German cuisine with fresh local ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere.

Trattoria La Bruschetta

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria La Bruschetta in Nippes, Cologne - where every dish tells a story.

Viet Kitchen

Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Viet Kitchen in Cologne - a must-visit restaurant offering fresh flavors in a cozy setting.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Galeria Kaufhof Nippes

Discover Galeria Kaufhof Nippes, Cologne's premier department store offering a vast selection of fashion, beauty, and local products in a vibrant shopping environment.

KiK Köln Nippes

Explore affordable fashion and home goods at KiK Köln Nippes, where trendy meets budget-friendly in the heart of Cologne's Nippes district.

Bookstore Neusser Straße - einzigundartig

Explore a treasure trove of books, toys, and gifts at Bookstore Neusser Straße - einzigundartig in Cologne's charming Nippes district.

Mandala Store Cologne

Explore the Mandala Store in Cologne, a treasure trove of unique gifts and metaphysical supplies for the curious traveler.

fairstore Nippes

Explore Fairstore Nippes: A Sustainable Shopping Destination in Cologne's Vibrant Nippes District.

EuroShop

Explore EuroShop in Cologne for unique gifts, home essentials, and stationery at unbeatable prices, perfect for every tourist's shopping list.

fan-tasia.de

Explore Fan-Tasia in Cologne for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of the city and its rich culture.

Smoke Pops

Discover the magical world of sweets at Smoke Pops, a charming candy store in Cologne's Nippes borough, where indulgence meets creativity.

Uniqz personalisierte Geschenke die mitten ins Herz treffen

Explore Uniqz in Cologne for a delightful selection of personalized gifts that truly touch the heart, perfect for any occasion.

NippS49

Explore NippS49, a unique gift shop in Cologne offering handcrafted treasures and local souvenirs that celebrate the spirit of the city.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Morio

Discover Morio, a cozy wine bar in Cologne's Nippes district, offering a delightful selection of wines and artisanal coffee in a warm atmosphere.

Flora 6 Köln-Nippes

Discover the lively Flora 6 pub in Köln-Nippes, where delicious food meets vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable Cologne experience.

Barfly

Discover Barfly, Cologne's cocktail gem where innovative mixology meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of Nippes.

Kuen

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kuen Pub in Cologne, where unique cocktails and local brews meet a cozy ambiance.

Basil's

Discover the charm of Basil's, a cozy bar in Cologne's Nippes district, offering a wide range of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

Alt Neppes

Discover the heart of Cologne at Alt Neppes, a cozy pub offering local brews and authentic German cuisine in the vibrant Nippes district.

Neppeser Gaffel Stube

Discover the charm of Neppeser Gaffel Stube, a cozy gastropub in Cologne serving traditional German fare and local brews in a welcoming atmosphere.

Zum Denkmal

Discover the charm of Cologne at Zum Denkmal, a beloved pub in Nippes, renowned for its friendly ambiance and local brews.

Vintage 54

Discover Vintage 54, a charming bar in Cologne's Nippes district, offering a cozy atmosphere and an extensive selection of drinks for an unforgettable night out.

Zwitscherstube

Discover the cozy Zwitscherstube in Cologne's Nippes district, where friendly vibes and local drinks await in a charming bar atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Nippes

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

Local Phrases

- HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-teh]
- Thank youDanke
  [dank-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-gung]
- How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee gayt es een-en]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oond deer]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-lish]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-eh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [ikh het-eh gehr-neh dee shpigh-zeh-kahr-teh, bit-teh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ess-eh kine fly-sh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte zahlen, bitte
  [ikh merkhte sah-len, bit-teh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [geh vehg]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee po-lee-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen artsht]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verlaufen
  [ikh hah-beh mikh fer-lauf-en]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh bin krangk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkhte kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue mich nur um
  [ikh shau-eh mikh noor oom]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kohs-tet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [ker-nen zee den preis zeng-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
- MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [gehs-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
- 1eins
  [ayns]
- 2zwei
  [tsvay]
- 3drei
  [dry]
- 4vier
  [feer]
- 5fünf
  [fuhnf]
- 6sechs
  [zeks]
- 7sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8acht
  [akht]
- 9neun
  [noyn]
- 10zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-dreh-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [ker-nen zee meer tsai-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 Nippes

Nippes, located in the northern part of Cologne, began to develop as a distinct neighborhood in the 19th century. With the expansion of the city due to industrialization, Nippes transformed from a rural area into a burgeoning residential district. The construction of the Cologne-Nippes railway station in 1870 facilitated connectivity, drawing more residents and businesses to the area.
During World War II, Nippes, like much of Cologne, suffered significant damage from Allied bombings. The neighborhood experienced a substantial loss of its historical buildings and infrastructure. Post-war recovery efforts were focused on rebuilding, leading to a mix of restored and modern architecture that characterizes Nippes today.
In the late 20th century, Nippes became known for its cultural diversity as new residents from various backgrounds moved to the area. This influx contributed to a vibrant community atmosphere, with numerous international shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Gentrification also began in this period, leading to rising property values and a shift in the neighborhood's demographic.
Today, Nippes is celebrated for its lively cultural scene, including street festivals, art galleries, and local markets. The neighborhood blends traditional and modern elements, with historic buildings coexisting alongside contemporary structures. Nippes is now a sought-after area for both locals and newcomers, known for its community spirit and diverse offerings.

Nippes Essentials

Nippes is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Cologne. If you are coming from the city center, take the U-Bahn line U12 or U15 from the Neumarkt station towards Nippes. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the S-Bahn services that connect various parts of the city, with Nippes being served by S11 and S12 lines. For those coming from Cologne Bonn Airport, take the S19 line towards Köln Messe/Deutz and transfer to the S11 line at Deutz/Köln Messe.
Nippes is well-connected by public transport, with several tram and bus lines running through the neighborhood. The U-Bahn and S-Bahn services are reliable and frequent. For a more leisurely exploration, consider renting a bicycle; there are bike-sharing options available throughout the city. Walking is also a great way to discover the charming streets and hidden spots of Nippes.
Nippes is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. As with any urban area, it is advisable to take standard precautions. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit streets. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, particularly near popular attractions and public transport stations.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The local hospital is located on the outskirts of Nippes, and there are several pharmacies where you can get assistance for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and practically; casual attire is accepted. However, avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting churches. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Guten Tag.' A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine, especially in family-run establishments. Don't refuse food or drink when offered, as it may be seen as impolite.
To experience Nippes like a local, visit the weekly markets held at Wilhelmsplatz, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Explore the side streets to discover quaint cafes and bakeries that offer authentic German pastries. Engage with locals in the parks, especially during weekends, as Cologne's residents often enjoy picnics and outdoor activities. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the local breweries for a taste of Kölsch, a regional beer brewed only in Cologne.

Nippes: Cologne's Hidden Gem of Culture and Charm

Local tips in Nippes