Cologne

With about 82 million inhabitants, Germany is the most populous member state of the European Union. Germany's capital and largest metropolis is Berlin, while its largest conurbation is the Ruhr, with its main centres of Dortmund and Essen. The country's other major cities are Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, Leipzig, Bremen, Dresden, Hannover, and Nuremberg. Elevation ranges from the mountains of the Alps in the south to the shores of the North Sea in the northwest and the Baltic Sea  in the northeast. The forested uplands of central Germany and the lowlands of northern Germany are traversed by such major rivers as the Rhine, Danube and Elbe. Germany's alpine glaciers are experiencing deglaciation. When thinking of Germany, beer, lederhosen and Alpine hats quickly come to mind, but these stereotypes mostly relate to Bavarian culture and do not represent Germany as a whole. Germany is a vast and diverse country with 16 culturally unique states that have been politically united since 1871. Even within states there is often considerable cultural diversity.

Germany

Its capital is Düsseldorf; the largest city is Cologne. Four of Germany's ten largest cities (Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, and Essen) are located in this state, as well as the second largest metropolitan area on the European continent, Rhine-Ruhr. Beethoven, Heinrich Heine or Joseph Beuys - Germany's most populous land has seen the birth of many well-known artists and is one of Europe's great cultural regions. Museums, theaters, orchestras and concert halls, musicals and other events attract millions of visitors every year. In addition to these cultural achievements, there are four World Heritage sites: Cologne Cathedral, Aachen Cathedral, Augustusburg Castle in Brühl and Zollverein Mine in Essen. The symbol of Cologne is even the most visited curiosity of Germany.

North Rhine-Westphalia

With its **Gothic churches**, **chocolates**, liberal people, and of course, its **rich history**, [Cologne](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/cologne-the-most-diversed-city-in-germany-8ach) (Köln) is **Germany's most visited city**! Whatever your heart desires, you definitely will find it in Cologne! History? Check! Incredible architecture? Check! Delicious food? Check! **Shopping**? Double-check! However, you need to properly plan out what to visit and [get the best located hotel](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/stays-cologne) that will allow you to move around the city easier.

Cologne has some of the **best shopping streets in Germany**; the most popular ones are **Schildergasse** and **Hohe Straße**! Here, you can spend some sweet cash to zillion different shops, from high-street to "*I can't pay rent this month because I bought a bag*" shops. So, if you want to check out **the best shopping streets in Cologne**, keep reading!

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First stop, **Hohe Straße**! This street starts at the gorgeous **Köln cathedral **and leads into **Schildergasse**. In Hohe Straße, you will find almost every high-street brands like **H&M, Esprit, Mango, **and many more. Besides, you can also shop in many **souvenir shops** and bring a beautiful gift to your loved ones. There is also a huge **Lego store** and **tons of cafés and restaurants** all over the street. Well, If you haven't dried your bank account yet, the next stop is the **Schildergasse!**

Hohe Straße: A Shopper's Paradise in Cologne

If you're a shopaholic looking for a retail therapy fix, look no further than Hohe Straße in Cologne, Germany. This bustling street is a shopaholic's paradise, lined with a plethora of high-street brands like H&M, Esprit, Mango, and many more. With its vibrant atmosphere and endless shopping options, Hohe Straße is a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts.

But Hohe Straße is not just about shopping; it also offers a glimpse into Cologne's rich history and architectural heritage. The street itself dates back to medieval times and has witnessed centuries of trade and commerce. As you stroll along its cobblestone pavement, you'll be surrounded by beautifully preserved buildings that showcase a mix of architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance.

Aside from its historical significance, Hohe Straße is also a hub for cultural events and entertainment. Throughout the year, the street hosts various festivals, live performances, and street markets, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're looking for unique souvenirs, trendy fashion pieces, or simply want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Hohe Straße has something for everyone.

To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to explore Hohe Straße during the weekdays, as it tends to get crowded on weekends. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor dining at the street's charming cafes and restaurants.

So, if you find yourself in Cologne, don't miss the opportunity to experience the vibrant energy and endless shopping options of Hohe Straße. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply looking for a unique shopping experience, this street is sure to leave you captivated.

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Hohe Straße

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## Most visited for shopping: Schildergasse



Schildergasse is definitely **Cologne’s best-known shopping street** and also **one of the most-visited shopping streets in Germany**. The reason why is that you can find all the cool brands like **Desigual, Adidas, Puma, Tommy Hilfiger, Primark, Galeria Kaufhof, Zara** and many more. My absolute favorite is **TK Maxx,** though. Anyway, after shopping, you can also check out **Cologne’s Hardrock Café** at the very end of Schildergasse, to drink and forget about every penny you have spent.

On your shopping journey in Schildergasse, you will also see a huge shop made of glass, which is called the **Weltstadthaus**. And that store, my friends, is the **Peek & Cloppenburg** clothing store, which you should also check out. 

### Discover the Architectural Marvel of Weltstadthaus in Köln

If you're a fan of modern architecture and innovative design, then a visit to the Weltstadthaus in Köln is a must. This architectural marvel, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, stands out as a symbol of modernity and innovation in the heart of the city. Let's dive into the fascinating features and experiences this building has to offer.

### A Unique Location and Design

One of the most captivating aspects of the Weltstadthaus is its strategic location. It covers the Nord-Süd-Fahrt, a main traffic artery, and faces the bustling Schildergasse, Europe's most frequented shopping mile. This prime location makes it easily accessible to both shoppers and visitors.

The building's design is truly awe-inspiring. Its sleek and modern structure stands in stark contrast to the surrounding historic buildings. The organic shape of the building, resembling a ship or a stranded whale, has earned it the nickname "Walfisch" among the locals. This unique design makes the Weltstadthaus a true landmark in the city.

### Captivating Architectural Features

As you approach the Weltstadthaus, you'll be greeted by its impressive glass façade. The 4,900 square meters of glass, constructed from 6,800 individual panes, allows an abundance of natural light to flood the interior. This creates a bright and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Inside, the building boasts a spacious atrium that offers a breathtaking view of five stories, reaching a height of 36 meters. The combination of glass and wood in the construction gives the building a contemporary and elegant feel. The northern façade, made of natural stone, adds a touch of timeless beauty to the overall design.

### Shopping and Dining Experience

The Weltstadthaus is not just a stunning architectural masterpiece; it also offers a wide range of shopping options. From high-end fashion brands to local boutiques, there is something for every shopper's taste. Peek & Cloppenburg, the department store operator, has curated a diverse selection of fashion and lifestyle products.

After a day of shopping, take a break and indulge in the culinary delights offered within the building. The department store houses various restaurants and cafes, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a delicious meal or a cup of coffee.

### When to Visit

The Weltstadthaus is open year-round, welcoming visitors from near and far. Whether you're a fan of architecture, a shopaholic, or simply looking for a unique experience, this building has something for everyone. The best time to visit is during weekdays when it's less crowded, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and design of the building.

### Conclusion

The Weltstadthaus in Köln is a true architectural gem that combines design, functionality, and innovation. Its unique location, captivating architectural features, and diverse shopping and dining options make it a must-visit destination for travelers. So, if you find yourself in Köln, don't miss the opportunity to explore and experience the wonders of the Weltstadthaus.

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Weltstadthaus

Schildergasse is not just any ordinary shopping street; it is the heart and soul of Cologne's retail scene. With its vibrant atmosphere and an impressive array of shops, it is no wonder that Schildergasse is one of the most-visited shopping streets in Germany.

As you stroll along Schildergasse, you will find yourself surrounded by all the cool and trendy brands you can imagine. From Desigual to Adidas, Puma to Tommy Hilfiger, Primark to Zara, and many more, there is something for everyone's fashion taste. And if you're in the mood for some department store shopping, Galeria Kaufhof is also located on Schildergasse.

But Schildergasse is not just about shopping; it also has historical significance. The street dates back to the Roman era, making it one of the oldest streets in Cologne. Its name, which translates to "shield road," is believed to have originated from the Roman practice of displaying shields on the walls of buildings along the street.

In addition to its historical significance, Schildergasse also boasts some architectural features worth noting. The street is lined with beautiful buildings that showcase a mix of architectural styles, ranging from Gothic to Renaissance to modern.

To fully experience the charm of Schildergasse, it is best to visit during the holiday season. The street is beautifully decorated with festive lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. It is also the perfect time to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.

So, whether you're a shopaholic looking for the latest fashion trends or a history enthusiast fascinated by Roman heritage, Schildergasse is a must-visit destination in Cologne. Step foot on this iconic shopping street and immerse yourself in its vibrant energy and rich history.

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Schildergasse

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My name is Alara Benlier, I am Turkish but currently living in Germany! My first traveling experience was in 2013 to Europe. I remember falling in love with the architecture, the culture, the art and of course the food. After that, I wanted to explore more, not as a tourist but as a local, that's why I did the Erasmus Programme and went to the Netherlands, a life-changing experience for me. Traveling became a passion. I love meeting new cultures, learning something new every day, seeing new places, tasting the delicious food and being not just a tourist, but a traveler. I am excited to share all my experiences, make a difference in people’s lives and make them enjoy traveling more. So if you want to explore gorgeous Germany, the cool Netherlands and of course history-rich Turkey, follow me and let’s explore them together!

The best shopping streets in Cologne

Gift shopping at Hohe Straße

Most visited for shopping: Schildergasse

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