Is the Cologne myths and miracles walk difficult?

No, it is considered an easy walk. The terrain is flat, although some streets are paved with traditional cobblestones which may require comfortable walking shoes.

What are the main highlights of a walking route in Cologne's Old Town?

Key highlights include the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the colorful Fish Market, the Great St. Martin Church, and the legendary Heinzelmännchenbrunnen.

Is this self-guided walk suitable for families?

Yes, it is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the legends of the brownies (Heinzelmännchen) and the story of the horses in the attic at the Richmodis House.

What is the best time to start this walking route?

Starting in the late morning is ideal. This allows you to see the Cathedral before midday services and enjoy the riverside atmosphere as the city wakes up.

Are there many stairs on this route?

Most of the route is step-free. There are some stairs near the riverfront and inside the Cathedral, but alternative ramps or flat paths are usually available nearby.

Can I see the Cologne Cathedral for free?

Yes, entry to the main floor of the Cathedral is free for visitors. However, there are fees if you wish to climb the tower or visit the Treasury.

Is it worth doing a guided tour Cologne if I have this audio walk?

This self-guided audio walk provides a deep historical and mythical context at your own pace. While a guided tour Cologne offers a group experience, this allows for more flexibility and independent discovery.

Where does the Myths and Miracles walk end?

The walk concludes at the Richmodis House near Neumarkt. This is a central hub with excellent public transport links to the rest of the city.

What should I wear for a stroll through Cologne's Old Town?

Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended due to the cobblestone streets. Dress in layers as the breeze off the Rhine river can be cool even on sunny days.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 15 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into a world where history and folklore intertwine on this self-guided walk through the heart of Cologne. The Altstadt, or Old Town, is a place where every cobblestone seems to whisper a story from the past. While many visitors flock to the city solely for its famous cathedral, this route reveals the hidden narratives that truly define the local spirit. From the colorful gables of the ancient Fish Market to the whimsical fountains honoring the city's legendary brownies, you will discover that Cologne is a city built on both stone and stories. This neighborhood stroll invites you to explore at your own pace, moving from the banks of the Rhine into the winding alleys where myths come to life. You will encounter tales of unrequited love at the Jan von Werth fountain and learn why the locals have a special relationship with the mischievous Heinzelmännchen. The journey culminates at the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that took over six centuries to complete, before heading toward a curious house where two stone horses peer out from an upper window. This walking route is perfect for those who want to see the iconic landmarks while also uncovering the quirky details that most people walk right past. Whether you are interested in Romanesque architecture, medieval legends, or the resilient history of a city that rebuilt itself after the war, this self-guided adventure offers a deep dive into the soul of the Rhineland. Exploring Cologne independently allows you to linger at the sights that intrigue you most, perhaps stopping for a local Kölsch beer along the way. This walking tour Cologne provides a comprehensive look at the city's most enduring legends, making it an essential experience for any first-time visitor or history enthusiast looking to see beyond the surface of the modern city.

Highlights

The colorful historic houses of the Fish Market
The Romanesque grandeur of Great St. Martin Church
The romantic legend of the Jan von Werth Fountain
The whimsical Heinzelmännchen (brownie) Fountain
The architectural majesty of the Cologne Cathedral
The mysterious stone horses of the Richmodis House

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Fish Market

Start your journey at the Fish Market, one of the most photographed spots in Cologne. These narrow, brightly colored houses with their pointed gables represent the classic architectural style of the Old Town. While most of these buildings were reconstructed after World War II, they follow the original medieval footprint. This area was once the bustling heart of Cologne’s trade, where fresh catch from the Rhine was sold daily. Look for the 'Stapelhaus,' which historically held the city's 'staple right,' requiring passing merchants to offer their goods for sale here first. It is a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of the riverfront before heading deeper into the city's history.

2

Great St. Martin Church

Towering over the Fish Market is the Great St. Martin Church, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture. Its massive clover-leaf choir and central tower have defined the city skyline for centuries. The church was built on the remains of a Roman warehouse, and today you can still see archaeological excavations beneath its floors. During the Middle Ages, it served a Benedictine abbey. Though heavily damaged in the 1940s, the restoration was so meticulous that it remains one of the most significant churches in the Rhineland. Step inside to experience the tranquil, minimalist interior that provides a stark contrast to the busy streets outside.

3

Jan von Werth-Brunnen

In the center of the Alter Markt stands the Jan von Werth Fountain. This monument tells a bittersweet local legend about a poor farmhand named Jan who fell in love with a girl named Griet. She rejected him because of his low status, leading Jan to join the army and go to war. Years later, he returned as a highly decorated general. Legend has it they met again at the city gates; he looked at her from his horse and said, 'Griet, who would have thought it?' She replied, 'Jan, who could have known it?' The story is a reminder of lost opportunities and the shifting tides of fortune, celebrated every year during the city's carnival festivities.

4

Heinzelmännchenbrunnen

This charming fountain celebrates Cologne’s most beloved mythical residents: the Heinzelmännchen, or brownies. According to local folklore, these little house gnomes did all the work for the city's craftsmen while they slept—baking bread, tailoring clothes, and cleaning shops. The only condition was that no one could ever look at them. However, a curious tailor's wife scattered peas on the stairs to trip them up so she could see them. The gnomes fell, were insulted, and disappeared forever, leaving the citizens of Cologne to do their own work. The fountain depicts the moment the gnomes were discovered and serves as a whimsical warning against excessive curiosity.

5

Cologne Cathedral

No walking route in Cologne is complete without the Kölner Dom. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1248 to house the relics of the Three Kings, making Cologne one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe. Work stopped in 1473 and didn't resume until the 19th century, finally finishing in 1880 using the original medieval plans. Its twin spires reach 157 meters into the sky. As you walk around the exterior, notice the intricate carvings and the dark patina of the sandstone, a result of reaction with the environment over decades. It is a symbol of the city's endurance and faith.

6

Zwei Pferdeköpfe am Turm des Richmodis-Hauses

Our final stop brings us to the Richmodis House near Neumarkt. Look up at the tower to see two white horse heads peering out of the window. These sculptures commemorate a famous 14th-century miracle. Richmodis von Aducht supposedly died of the plague and was buried. However, she was actually in a deep coma and woke up in her tomb. When she returned home and knocked on the door, her husband was so skeptical he claimed he would sooner believe his horses would climb to the attic than that his wife had returned from the dead. Suddenly, the sound of hooves was heard from above, and the horses were found in the attic. Richmodis lived for many more years, and the horses remain there today in stone.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk typically takes between 60 to 90 minutes depending on your pace. The total distance is approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) through the Altstadt neighborhood.