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Expat Exchange - The Insider's Guide to Cologne 2024
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The Insider's Guide to Cologne

By Joshua Wood, LPC

AGS Worldwide Movers
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Summary: Our Guide to Cologne: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Experience Cologne - The Insider's Guide to Cologne

Welcome to Cologne! If you're planning to move to Cologne, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Cologne has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Cologne.

Cologne is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular sites is the Cologne Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure that is the city’s most recognizable landmark. The cathedral is home to the Shrine of the Three Kings, a reliquary containing the remains of the Three Wise Men, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other popular sites include the Romano-Germanic Museum, which houses a collection of Roman artifacts, and the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, which features a wide range of European art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Cologne is also known for its vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. Some of the most popular restaurants include the Michelin-starred La Vie, which serves modern French cuisine, and the traditional German restaurant, Zum Eigelstein. For a more casual dining experience, there are plenty of pubs and beer gardens, such as the popular Päffgen Kölsch Brauhaus. For nightlife, the city is home to a variety of bars and clubs, such as the trendy Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld and the popular Gaffel am Dom.

Cologne also offers plenty of recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. Popular activities include cycling, which can be enjoyed along the banks of the Rhine, and hiking, which can be done in the nearby forests. For those looking for a more urban experience, there are plenty of parks and gardens, such as the Botanical Garden and the Volksgarten. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of sports facilities, such as the Kölnarena, which hosts a variety of sporting events, and the RheinEnergieStadion, which is home to the local football team.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Cologne: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Cologne often join local clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as this can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals," said one expat living in Cologne.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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"Cologne is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its famous cathedral to its many museums and galleries. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's lively nightlife, its numerous parks and green spaces, and its excellent public transport system. The city also has a strong international community, with many expats and digital nomads from all over the world. The cost of living in Cologne is relatively low, making it an affordable place to live and work. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse culture, Cologne is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," commented an expat living in Cologne.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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