CityGuide Cologne

Cologne not only has a stunning cathedral, but also an eclectic music scene; indeed, Europe’s largest university of music is situated in this city. The philharmonic near the Domhügel, the modern opera house with its repertoire of classical and Romantic performances and the countless local venues such as the municipal gardens, the E-Werk, the live music hall or the Cologne arena – Germany’s largest show and music hall – provide visitors with music of all genres and from all eras. This city also features a number of museums including the chocolate museum, the Ludwig museum, the sports museum as well as the Wallraf Richartz museum, housing a wide range of interesting exhibitions. Cologne’s gallery scene is one of the world’s largest and most diverse; indeed, the art market and the first ever art exhibition – named Art Cologne – were conceived in this city. Today approximately 70 dealers provide a wide range of premium art in Cologne, ranging from classical modernist works to fluxus and pop art through to recent works by internationally acclaimed newcomers. Most of the galleries are situated in the city centre around the cathedral, Cologne’s gothic emblem. Remnants dating back to the Roman age are scattered around the city, serving as a reminder of the city’s long history.