Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral is an impressive structure and a major landmark of the city of Cologne. At 157 meters tall, it is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Construction spanned 632 years, giving the cathedral a special historical depth. Every day, about 100 specialists from the cathedral workshop work to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is not only an architectural masterpiece but also an important place of pilgrimage. The Shrine of the Three Kings, which houses the relics of the Three Wise Men, is one of the many art-historical highlights. The stained-glass windows, including the famous Richter Window, lend the interior a special atmosphere. The iron roof truss, one of the largest steel structures of its time, protected the cathedral from major damage during World War II. Cologne Cathedral is not only a tourist attraction but also a vibrant place of worship where church services and musical events are held regularly.
Good to know
Openings
Cologne Cathedral is usually open from 6 am to 8 pm.
Outside of liturgical times, it is possible for tourists to visit the cathedral as a World Heritage Site: Generally between 10 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. on weekdays, 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Sundays, and until 8 p.m. in the tower hall after evening mass. Since church services have priority, changes are not excluded.
Outside of liturgical times, it is possible for tourists to visit the cathedral as a World Heritage Site: Generally between 10 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. on weekdays, 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Sundays, and until 8 p.m. in the tower hall after evening mass. Since church services have priority, changes are not excluded.
Price info
From July 1, 2026, a ticket is required to visit the interior of Cologne Cathedral. All information on ticket booking is available on the official Cologne Cathedral website.
General information
Parking Available
Bus stop available
Eligibility
Bad Weather Offer
Suitable for any weather
for Groups
for Class
for families
for individual guests
Suitable for Pushchair
Directions & Parking facilities
Cologne Cathedral is located in the immediate vicinity of the main railway station and is easy to reach by public transport and car.
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More information
All guided tours inside Cologne Cathedral require prior registration and may only be conducted by authorized or officially registered cathedral guides. Private individuals, groups, and tour operators are therefore required to book tours through DOMFORUM.
In addition, public tours are offered at selected times. Current dates, availability, and booking options can be found on the official website of Cologne Cathedral or via DOMFORUM.
In addition, public tours are offered at selected times. Current dates, availability, and booking options can be found on the official website of Cologne Cathedral or via DOMFORUM.
Author
License (master data)
KölnTourismus GmbH
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