Marcel’s guidebook

If you must go by car, park in Parkhaus Lanxess Arena on the Deutz side of the river (entrance is in Opladener Str. in the tunnel at the end of A559 Autobahn). It's much cheaper than in the city center proper and you can easily get everywhere by Subway, Tram, S-Bahn (commuter trains) or just by walking across the river which is beautiful all by itself.

we have a self-guided walking tour (English only, but free) or you can check out my beer/history airbnb walking tour if you're interested. Just ask us about it if you're up for that :-)

If you order Kölsch (Cologne beer) in a really traditional bar, note that waiters expect you to place beer mats in front of your in the exact number you need +1 (for making notes about the amount of beer). Also note that you're not ordering ONE beer, but beer. If it's really traditional, you will get fresh, full glasses as long as you don't place the beer mat on top of your glass to indicate you're done.