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Visit EqualdexStart in the Innenstadt (downtown) on the Rhine’s west bank. You’ll want to sniff out—get it? Eau de Cologne is named for this city!—two neighborhoods. Alter Markt (Old Market) and Rudolfplatz offer Cologne’s most spectacular sights, dining, and nightlife. Alter Markt’s Kneipen (pubs) draw older, calmer crowds looking to unwind with a cold glass or two of Cologne’s namesake Kölsch style beer and a hearty, meat- and potato-based Rhineland dish. People-watching on the terrace is a great way to pass the time… especially if you’re waiting for a weekend cabaret performance to start! When you want to drink and dance until dawn, head east of Alter Markt and hit up Rudolfplatz’s clubs, saunas, and all-night parties featuring a mix of local and international crowds.
Maybe you’ll meet a sightseeing buddy or several among the crowd. The more, the merrier in Cologne: the city is known for its 12 Romanesque churches in Altstadt (Old Town). Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral) is in a class of its own. Its stained-glass windows and Gothic twin spires, which survived the destruction of World War II, make Kölner Dom a must-visit and a must-photograph. The Heumarkt Square is beautiful year-round, but you’ll want to visit during the winter for its skating rink and Christmas market in November and December. Of course, no one’s quite as festive as Cologne’s LGBTQ+ community, so the HEAVENUE Christmas market at Rudolfplatz is not to be missed! You know exactly what kind of apparel we’ll don…
Cologne’s LGBTQ+ scene is lively and welcoming. It’s seamlessly integrated with the city’s broader community, as well as engaged with the international LGBTQ+ community’s histories, triumphs, and struggles. The inclusive vibe lasts all year round, especially in the "Bermuda Triangle" nightlife district. This area, buzzing with gay bars, LGBTQ+ clubs, and queer cafes, serves as the pulsating heart of Cologne’s queer community. It's a place to dance the night away, meet new friends, or enjoy a quiet cocktail under the canopy of twinkling lights. For events in the city make sure to try out Cologne Pride, which happens in late August. This event originally began as a Christopher Street Day (CSD) pride celebration after the Stonewall Riots.
For art lovers and history enthusiasts, the Museum Ludwig is a treasure trove that shouldn’t be missed. Here, one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe—including significant works by Warhol and Lichtenstein—awaits your keen eye. The museum’s bold pieces reflect the city’s own modern zest and creative flair.
Nature lovers, too, will find their green sanctuary in Cologne. The Flora and Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape with its lush landscapes and exotic plants—a splash of green amidst the urban expanse. For those who prefer a more active engagement with nature, the Rheinpark, stretching along the right bank of the Rhine, offers ample opportunities for jogging, picnicking, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of the city skyline.
Beyond the urban excitement, Cologne’s strategic location makes it a gateway to the enchanting Rhine Valley. A short train ride can transport you to a world of rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and sleepy villages. This region not only offers stunning natural beauty but also a chance to explore the rich wine culture of Germany.
Cologne, with its eclectic mix of historical depth, artistic vibrancy, and LGBTQ+ friendliness, offers a uniquely enriching experience. It’s a city that celebrates diversity in all its forms, making every visitor feel like a part of its ongoing story. For late-night ragers, centuries-old sights, charming traditions, garden delights, and community-based celebrations all year round, visit the riverside German city of Cologne!
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