Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

The Basics

No city tour of Cologne is complete without a visit to the Cologne Cathedral, and most sightseeing tours include at least a photo stop at the famous landmark. Visible from all over the city, it’s possible to see the cathedral on a walking or biking tour, admire the views on a Rhine River cruise, or visit on a day trip from nearby cities, such as Frankfurt.

Visitors to the cathedral can also explore the interiors, visit the Treasure Chamber, and climb the bell tower for a spectacular view of the city.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an entrance fee to climb the tower and visit the Treasure Chamber.

• In addition to being a tourist attraction, the cathedral also hosts regular masses, choir performances, and organ recitals.

• While there is no official dress code to enter the cathedral, it’s recommended to dress modestly.

• Most areas of the church are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Cologne Cathedral is located at the western end of Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne Old Town. The cathedral stands right next to Cologne Central Station and can be easily reached on foot from many of the central attractions.

When to Get There

The cathedral is open year-round, but with some 20,000 daily visitors, it can get extremely busy, especially in the peak months of July and August. To avoid the crowds, opt for an early morning or evening visit.

Inside the Kölner Dom

The real highlights of Kölner Dom are inside. Most notable is the Shrine of the Magi, or shrine of the Three Wise Men, containing relics of Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. Visitors can also admire stunning stained-glass windows, the bronze altar by Elmar Hillebrand, and the Gero Crucifix. Visitors can climb the South Tower to take a peek at St. Peter's Bell and view the treasury’s holy relics, sacred artworks, and gold, bronze, and ivory sculptures.

How much does it cost to enter Cologne Cathedral?

Entry to Cologne Cathedral is free for visitors who wish to see the cathedral's interior. Tickets are required, though, for climbing the cathedral’s tower and visiting the Cologne Cathedral Treasury, with tickets for adults starting at €6 for each or €9 for both. There is reduced–price admission to the tower and treasury for children, students, and families.

Are guided tours available for Cologne Cathedral?

Yes, guided tours of the Cologne Cathedral interior are available for visitors. Public guided tours provided in English that take one hour can be booked over at the DOMFORUM across from the cathedral entrance or on the DOMFORUM website. You can also book tours to special areas, including the treasury, roof, and baptistery, although these are only provided in German.

Can I purchase Cologne Cathedral tickets online in advance?

No, groups or individuals can't purchase tickets for the tower and treasury of Cologne Cathedral in advance. You cannot reserve a time slot for your visit, so you will need to buy your tickets at the time of your visit and wait in line on the odd occasion when these parts of the cathedral are particularly busy.

Is there a combination ticket for Cologne Cathedral and other nearby attractions?

No, there are no combination tickets available that include admission to the Cologne Cathedral with other attractions. There is a combination ticket for the tower and treasury, which are both inside the Cologne Cathedral. There is also a city pass, the KölnCard, that discounts many city attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral Treasury.

Are there restrictions on photography inside Cologne Cathedral?

Visitors to Cologne Cathedral are permitted to take photos without flash and video when services are not taking place for non-commercial use. Photo shoots, tripods, and highly technical equipment are prohibited in the cathedral without express permission, while drones over the cathedral are also strictly forbidden.

Is there a dress code for visiting Cologne Cathedral?

Yes, Cologne Cathedral does have a dress code for visitors and requests that visitors dress in a manner that respects the cathedral as a place of worship. Much like most churches, they ask visitors not to wear sleeveless or cropped tops or any clothes with offensive messages or symbols.

Ways to explore

While entry to the main cathedral is free, you’ll need to buy a ticket to climb to the top of the cathedral’s South Tower or visit the Treasury. No city tour of Cologne is complete without a visit to the Cologne Cathedral, and most sightseeing tours include at least a photo stop at the landmark. See the cathedral on a walking or bike tour, admire the views on a Rhine River cruise, or visit on a day trip from nearby cities, such as Frankfurt.

Accessibility

The main floor of the cathedral is accessible via a ramp, but other levels are inaccessible for structural reasons.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Make sure you bring a bottle of water if you plan to climb the 533 steps to the top of the South Tower.

What to wear

The cathedral is an active place of worship, so wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Not allowed

Large luggage, eating and drinking

Amenities

Guided tours, gift shop, lockers

Address

Cologne Cathedral is located at the western end of Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne Old Town. It’s within walking distance of many of the city’s central attractions.

Driving

Exit the airport following signs for A59 toward Köln. Merge onto A59 northbound. Take the exit toward A559/A4 Köln/Olpe and continue on A559 toward Köln-Deutz/Zentrum. Continue straight as A559 becomes Östliche Zubringerstraße, then follow signs for Innenstadt/City Center and cross the Deutzer Brücke (bridge) over the Rhine. After crossing the bridge, follow the signs for Dom/Hauptbahnhof. The cathedral will appear directly ahead, next to Cologne Central Station.

Public transportation

The cathedral stands right next to Cologne Central Station. You can also take the subway Line 1 to Köln Heumarkt, from which the cathedral is only a couple of minutes’ walk.

Best times to visit

Climb the tower around sunset for panoramic city views at golden hour.

Best days to visit

Sundays see the most evenly spread religious services, so visit during the week if you’re not looking to worship.

Best months to visit

During the holiday season, Cologne’s world-famous Christmas market takes root in the square surrounding the cathedral.

Special events

Mass takes place at Cologne Cathedral five times a day from Monday through Sunday, though weekday masses mostly take place in the morning.