Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany: Complete Guide an Best Tips

Edson Amorina Jr

12 months ago

Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany: Complete Guide an Best Tips

Guide to the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany for a captivating journey through chocolate’s history, culture, and production. Indulge in samples, shop souvenirs, and savor every moment, whether it’s an hour or a day.

If you are a chocolate lover, you will not want to miss the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany. This museum is dedicated to the history, culture and production of chocolate, and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.

You can see how chocolate is made, taste different varieties, and even create your own chocolate bar. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany, and how to make the most of your visit.

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Brief History of Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany, was founded in 1993 by Hans Imhoff, a chocolate manufacturer and entrepreneur. He wanted to share his passion and knowledge of chocolate with the public, and to preserve the cultural heritage of this sweet delicacy. The museum is located on a peninsula in the Rhine river, near the historic old town of Cologne. It occupies a former warehouse that was renovated and expanded with a glass structure that resembles a ship. The museum covers an area of 4,000 square meters and displays more than 5,000 exhibits related to chocolate.

The museum is divided into three sections: the cultural history of chocolate, the production and consumption of chocolate, and the chocolate experience. In the first section, you can learn about the origins of chocolate in Central and South America, where the cacao tree was cultivated by ancient civilizations such as the Maya and the Aztecs. You can also see how chocolate was introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and missionaries, and how it became a luxury item for the aristocracy and the clergy. You can admire rare and valuable objects such as porcelain cups, silver spoons, and paintings that depict the social and cultural aspects of chocolate.

In the second section, you can discover how chocolate is made from the raw cacao beans to the finished product. You can watch the different stages of processing, such as roasting, grinding, conching, and molding. See how chocolate is packaged and marketed in different countries and regions. And learn about the environmental and ethical issues related to chocolate production, such as fair trade, organic farming, and sustainability.

In the third section, you can enjoy the chocolate experience. You can smell and taste different kinds of chocolate, from dark to milk to white. It is possible to create your own chocolate bar with your choice of ingredients and toppings. Be sure to visit the tropical greenhouse, where you can see live cacao trees and other exotic plants. One attraction is a 3D movie that shows you the journey of a cacao bean from the plantation to the factory. And of course, you can buy some souvenirs and gifts at the museum shop, where you can find a wide range of chocolate products and accessories.

Where is the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany, is located on Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50678 Cologne.

It is easily accessible by public transport or by car. You can take the tram lines 1 or 9 to Heumarkt station or line 3 or 4 to Severinstraße station. From there, you can walk for about 10 minutes along the Rhine promenade until you reach the museum. You can also take bus line 133 to Schokoladenmuseum stop or line 106 or 132 to Holzmarkt stop.

If you are driving, you can park your car at one of the nearby parking lots or garages.

How to go to Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm (except on Mondays from November to March). The last admission is at 5 pm. The admission fee is 13 euros for adults, 9 euros for students and seniors, 7 euros for children (6-16 years old), and free for children under 6 years old. You can buy a family ticket for 30 euros (2 adults + 2 children) or a group ticket for 11 euros per person (minimum 15 people).

It is possible to book a guided tour of the museum for an extra fee of 70 euros per group (maximum 25 people). The guided tour lasts for about an hour and covers all three sections of the museum. You can choose from different languages such as German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch or Russian. You need to book your tour at least two weeks in advance by phone or email.

Services that can help you get around the city:

What are the best times to visit Chocolate Museum in Cologne Germany

The best times to visit Chocolate Museum in Cologne Germany are during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. You can also enjoy some festivals and events that take place in the city during these seasons, such as the Cologne Carnival in February or March, the Cologne Lights in July, or the Christmas markets in December. The best way to avoid the crowds and queues is by visiting the museum early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Be sure to check the museum website for special offers and discounts that are available throughout the year.

Where to stay near Chocolate Museum in Cologne Germany – Resort, hotel, hostel and Bed & Breakfast

If you are looking for a place to stay near Chocolate Museum in Cologne Germany, you have plenty of options to choose from. You can find a variety of accommodation types, such as resorts, hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts, that suit your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best options near the museum:

Hyatt Regency Cologne: This is a luxury hotel that offers spacious and elegant rooms with views of the Rhine river and the Cologne Cathedral. It has a spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. It is located about 1 km from the museum.
Art’Otel Cologne: This is a stylish and modern hotel that features artworks by Korean artist SEO. It has cozy and colorful rooms with free Wi-Fi, a sauna, a restaurant, and a bar. It is located about 500 meters from the museum.
Hotel Matheisen: This is a family-run hotel that offers comfortable and affordable rooms with free Wi-Fi, a TV, and a private bathroom. It has a breakfast buffet, a terrace, and a parking lot. It is located about 2 km from the museum.
Black Sheep Hostel: This is a friendly and fun hostel that offers dorms and private rooms with free Wi-Fi, lockers, and shared bathrooms. It has a kitchen, a lounge, a garden, and a bar. It is located about 1.5 km from the museum.
Bed & Breakfast Cologne Downtown: This is a cozy and charming bed and breakfast that offers rooms with free Wi-Fi, a TV, and a private bathroom. It has a breakfast room, a garden, and a bike rental service. It is located about 2 km from the museum.

To help with travel planning, we wrote a post that makes choosing easier the best region and the best hotels to stay in Cologne in Germany.

If you are looking for a hostel, hostel accommodation, at a more affordable price, it is worth researching other options on the Cologne city page at Booking.com website.

What to do in Chocolate Museum in Cologne Germany

There are many things to do in Chocolate Museum in Cologne Germany besides exploring the exhibits and tasting the chocolate. You can also participate in some of the activities and events that are organized by the museum throughout the year. Some of them are:

Chocolate workshops: You can learn how to make your own chocolate creations with the help of professional chocolatiers. You can choose from different themes and levels of difficulty, such as truffles, pralines, or chocolate bars. You need to book your workshop in advance by phone or email.
Chocolate tastings: You can sample different kinds of chocolate from around the world and learn about their origins, flavors, and characteristics. You can also pair them with wine or coffee for an extra indulgence. You need to book your tasting in advance by phone or email.
Chocolate festivals: You can celebrate various occasions with chocolate at the museum’s festivals. You can enjoy special exhibitions, performances, games, competitions, and of course, lots of chocolate. Some of the festivals are Easter Festival in April, World Chocolate Day in July, or Chocolate Advent Calendar in December.
Chocolate lectures: You can listen to experts and enthusiasts talk about various topics related to chocolate at the museum’s lectures. You can learn about the history, culture, science, art, or health aspects of chocolate. You can also ask questions and join the discussion.

Cologne: Chocolate Museum Entrance Ticket – Visit the Chocolate Museum in Cologne and discover the 5,000-year cultural history of cocoa and chocolate. Find out how chocolate first arrived in Europe and how it has changed over the decades.

Top 10 tourist attractions near Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany

The Chocolate Museum is not the only attraction in Cologne that is worth seeing. The city has a rich history and culture, dating back to Roman times. Here are some of the top 10 tourist attractions near the Chocolate Museum that you can visit:

Cologne Cathedral: This is the most famous landmark of Cologne and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a stunning Gothic church that took over 600 years to complete. You can admire its impressive architecture, climb its towers for a panoramic view of the city and see the relics of the Three Wise Men.
Old Town: This is the historic center of Cologne, where you can find many charming buildings, squares and monuments. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit some of the 12 Romanesque churches and enjoy the atmosphere of the old city.
Hohenzollern Bridge: This is a bridge that crosses the Rhine river and connects the Chocolate Museum with the main train station. It is famous for its thousands of padlocks that lovers attach to its railings as a symbol of their eternal love. You can also enjoy a scenic view of the river and the city from the bridge.
Museum Ludwig: This is a museum that showcases modern art, especially from the 20th and 21st centuries. You can see works by Picasso, Warhol, Dali and many other famous artists. The museum also has a large collection of pop art, photography and graphic design.
Roman-Germanic Museum: This is a museum that displays artifacts from the Roman era, when Cologne was a major city in the Roman Empire. You can see mosaics, sculptures, jewelry and other objects that illustrate the life and culture of the ancient Romans.
Cologne City Hall: This is the oldest city hall in Germany, dating back to the 12th century. It has a mix of styles, from Gothic to Renaissance to Baroque. You can see its ornate facade, its historic tower and its inner courtyard.
Rheinauhafen: This is a former harbor area that has been transformed into a modern urban district. You can see some of the old warehouses and cranes that have been preserved, as well as some new buildings that have a distinctive shape of chocolate bars. You can also find some cafes, restaurants and shops in this area.
Wallraf-Richartz Museum: This is a museum that exhibits art from the medieval to the early 20th century. You can see paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet and many other masters. The museum also has a collection of sculptures, drawings and prints.
Great St. Martin Church: This is one of the 12 Romanesque churches in Cologne and one of the most striking ones. It has a distinctive four-towered facade and a colorful roof. It stands on an island in the Rhine river and was once part of a Benedictine monastery.
Cologne Cable Car: This is a fun way to get a bird’s eye view of Cologne and its surroundings. You can take a cable car that runs across the Rhine river from the zoo to the Rheinpark. You can see some of the landmarks of Cologne from above and enjoy a relaxing ride.

Cologne: Ticket for the Ferris Wheel at the Chocolate Museum – Enjoy not only the view over the spectacular architecture of Cologne’s Rheinauhafen and the roofs of the city, but also the wide view over the region. You can expect an approx. 8-minute ride in the all-glass gondolas with great panoramic views.

Tip Itineraries for 1 Day to Visit the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany

If you have only one day to visit Chocolate Museum in Cologne, you might wonder how to plan your time efficiently.

The Chocolate Museum is located on the Rhine river, near the historic Old Town of Cologne. You can easily reach it by public transport, bike or car. The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Mondays and some holidays. The admission fee is 12.50 euros for adults, 9 euros for students and seniors, and 6.50 euros for children. You can also buy a family ticket for 32 euros.

The museum has three floors, each with a different theme and exhibition. The first floor covers the history of chocolate, from its origins in Central America to its spread across Europe and the world. You can see ancient artifacts, historical documents and interactive displays that show how chocolate was used and valued by different cultures and periods.

The second floor focuses on the production of chocolate, from the cocoa bean to the finished product. You can see a miniature chocolate factory, where you can watch how chocolate is made and even taste some samples. You can also learn about the social and environmental aspects of cocoa cultivation and trade, and how chocolate companies are working to improve them.

The third floor is all about the enjoyment of chocolate. You can see a huge chocolate fountain, where you can dip waffles or fruits in melted chocolate. You can also visit the museum shop, where you can buy a variety of chocolate products and souvenirs. If you want to learn more about chocolate making, you can join a workshop or a guided tour, which are offered regularly for an extra fee.

Skip-the-Line Chocolate Museum & Old Town Guided Tour – Follow the journey from a cacao bean to a delicious bar of chocolate at the Chocolate Museum in Cologne! Enjoy skip-the-line tickets and a pickup service.

Where to Eat in and Near Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany – Tips for Bars and Restaurants

If you are hungry after exploring the Chocolate Museum, you have plenty of options to satisfy your appetite. The museum has its own café and restaurant, where you can enjoy a range of dishes and drinks, from salads and sandwiches to cakes and coffee. The café has a terrace overlooking the river, where you can relax and enjoy the view.

If you want to try some local specialties, you can head to the Old Town, which is only a short walk away from the museum. There you will find many traditional pubs and restaurants that serve typical Cologne dishes, such as kölsch (a light beer), halve hahn (a cheese sandwich) and himmel un ääd (a dish with mashed potatoes, applesauce and blood sausage). You can also find international cuisine, such as Italian, Turkish or Asian.

If you are looking for something sweet, you will not be disappointed by the variety of bakeries and pastry shops that offer delicious treats. You can try some kuchen (cake), Stollen (fruit bread) or Printen (spicy cookies). You can also find some specialty shops that sell artisanal chocolate, such as Schokoladenmuseum Köln (the museum’s own brand), Stollwerck (a historic chocolate company) or Lindt (a famous Swiss chocolatier).

Cologne: 3-Hour Südstadt Food Tour – Explore Cologne’s culinary scene on a guided walking tour. Enjoy 5 food samples at selected international food venues in the heart of the Südstadt while learning some facts about the district.

Key Tips and Practical Information

Here are some essential tips and practical details to consider before embarking on your visit to the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany:

Accessibility: The museum is thoughtfully designed to accommodate wheelchair users and is equipped with elevators and ramps, ensuring ease of access for all visitors.
Multilingual Audio Guides: Enhance your museum experience by availing yourself of the optional audio guides, available in multiple languages for an additional fee. These guides offer insightful commentary, providing a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
Locker Facilities: To ensure the safety of your belongings during your exploration, the museum provides lockers where you can securely store your items, granting you peace of mind as you immerse yourself in the chocolate-filled journey.
Complimentary Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your visit with the museum’s complimentary Wi-Fi services, allowing you to share your experiences or access additional information as you delve into the world of chocolate.
Convenient Ticket Purchase: Whether you prefer planning in advance or making spontaneous visits, the museum offers the flexibility of purchasing tickets both online and at the entrance. This includes the convenience of securing tickets through the museum’s gift shop.
Cologne Card Benefits: Maximize your visit by leveraging the benefits of the Cologne Card scheme, which not only provides access to the Chocolate Museum but also extends discounts for public transportation and various other attractions in the city.
Proximity to Other Landmarks: Positioned in close proximity to several renowned attractions such as the Cathedral, the Roman-Germanic Museum, and the Ludwig Museum, the Chocolate Museum offers an opportunity to seamlessly explore and appreciate other cultural highlights of Cologne during your visit.

Keeping these practical details in mind will undoubtedly facilitate a more enjoyable and convenient experience as you venture into the enchanting world of chocolate at the Cologne Chocolate Museum.

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany is a must-see for anyone who loves chocolate. It offers a fascinating insight into the history, culture and production of this delicious treat, as well as a chance to taste some samples and buy some souvenirs. Whether you spend an hour or a whole day there, you will have a sweet time.