A top address for guests from all over the world. Since 1955
It is said that you have the best view of Cologne Cathedral from here. This was already the case in 1955 when the Cologne Tourist Information building was built as the "House of Tourism" and is still true today: after extensive modernisation and digitalisation. We look forward to welcoming you to Cologne and providing you with all the information you need - on sights, events, gastronomic offers and personal tips for your stay.
The modern concept integrates modern information habits with the stylistic charm of the 1950s. Heritage-protected elements stand alongside digital stations, conversation islands and touchscreens as a supplement or alternative to personal advice. A cosy book and reading corner invites you to stay and browse before your path leads you up the curved staircase to the "gallery with a view".
From the touchscreen to your own smartphone - or analogue
You can view curated route suggestions in the entrance area or use the experience planner via a large interactive map or at the counter via one of the touchscreens. With both applications, you can filter by date, time, location and category to display all the sights, events, restaurant tips or hotels. In German or English. Finally, you can transfer everything to your smartphone using a QR code - for when you're on the move. This also works if you ask for personal advice at the counter in combination with the touchscreen application.
Frequently asked questions about your stay in Cologne, such as "Where can I charge my mobile phone?" can also be found in advance in the FAQ. If you prefer analogue - or have returned to it after a long time - flyers and brochures are still available.
Centrally located and cosmopolitan: incl. souvenir shop on the 1st floor with a view of the cathedral
In the immediate vicinity of the main train station, Cologne Cathedral, Hohe Straße and the old town, the Tourist Information at Kardinal-Höffner-Platz 1 is more than convenient for you as a visitor to be inspired by one or two ideas for experiences. But before you put your Cologne plan into practice, don't forget to take in the view of the cathedral's main portal from the window on the 1st floor. Here you will also find the KölnShop with Cologne souvenirs, brand, fan and decorative items as well as many accessories.
A little trip back to tourism in the 1950s ...
The Tourist Information Centre is not only exemplary of the 1950s due to its architecture and its partially listed interior, but also reminds you of the years of upswing as an institution. After the deprivation of the post-war years, the 50s saw a slow revival of the German appetite for travelling: Dolce Vita instead of working hard, guesthouses and guest rooms instead of sitting at home and later raving to others about travelling instead of just going to work 6 days a week all the time. In addition to trips on foot, by bike or train to the seaside or the Black Forest, many people were also drawn back to the Rhine metropolis of Cologne...
The first port of call was often the House of Tourism with its three golden crowns on the oriel porch - symbolising the Three Wise Men, whose relics rest directly opposite in Cologne Cathedral. A beautiful imaginary axis of connection, don't you think?
House of Tourism from 1955
The building was constructed in 1955 according to the plans of the well-known Cologne architect Hans Josef Lohmeyer, who played a key role in the reconstruction of the city. The no-nonsense, simple façade and functional design are typical of 1950s architecture, as these buildings were constructed efficiently and could be used flexibly for various offices. The old tourist office with its tourism department was destroyed during the war.
The most recent modernisation not only made the building fit for the future in terms of tourism, but also in terms of energy efficiency - wherever it was possible given the current protection of listed buildings.
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