Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral, a symbol of architectural grandeur, stands 157 metres tall, ranking as the third-largest Gothic cathedral globally. Its vast windows encompass 10,000 square metres, drawing 20,000 visitors daily. Approximately 100 artisans work ceaselessly to maintain its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Germany's top tourist attraction. An old Cologne saying warns, "When the Cathedral is finished, the world ends," indicating the perpetual nature of its construction. The cathedral holds significant artistic and cultural interest. It houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, preserving the relics of the biblical Magi, and the Petrus Staff in its underground treasury. Remarkable stained glass windows, including the famous Bibel window and the modern Richter window, contribute to the cathedral's unique charm. These windows, both medieval and contemporary, narrate biblical stories and mesmerise with their vibrant hues. Intriguingly, the cathedral is sustained by an iron roof truss, a remarkable feat achieved 30 years before the Eiffel Tower. This resilient structure shielded it during World War II. As a vital cultural and spiritual hub, it continues to draw millions, embodying both Cologne's skyline and spirit.
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 p.m. on weekdays, 1 p.m. and 4 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 p.m. on weekdays, 1 p.m. and 4 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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