Cologne Cathedral Opening Hours

Kölner Dom Visiting Hours 2025

Open Today: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Cathedral Interior

Monday - Sunday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Open daily, all year
  • Free admission
  • May close during services

Tower Climb

Daily
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

(Last entry: 5:30 PM)

  • €8 adults / €4 children
  • 533 steps to viewing platform
  • More details

Cathedral Treasury

Daily
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

(Last entry: 5:30 PM)

Seasonal Opening Hours

Summer Hours (May - October)

Cathedral: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tower: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Treasury: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Winter Hours (November - April)

Cathedral: 6:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Tower: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Treasury: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Note: Opening hours may vary during special events, holidays, and religious services. Always check before your visit or call ahead.

Visitor Information

Closed During Mass

The cathedral may be closed to tourists during:

  • • Religious services (check mass times)
  • • Special church events
  • • Weddings and funerals
  • • Major religious holidays

Best Time to Visit

  • Early morning (6-8 AM): Fewer crowds
  • Weekdays: Less busy than weekends
  • Off-season (Nov-Mar): Shorter wait times
  • Avoid: Peak summer & Christmas market

Accessibility

  • • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • • Disabled parking available
  • • Free entry for disabled + companion
  • • Note: Tower has no elevator (533 steps)

How Long to Visit

  • Cathedral only: 30-45 minutes
  • + Tower climb: Add 1 hour
  • + Treasury: Add 45 minutes
  • Complete visit: 2-3 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Cologne Cathedral open?

The cathedral opens daily at 6:00 AM. The tower climb and treasury open later at 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM respectively.

What time does Cologne Cathedral close?

The cathedral closes at 8:00 PM (7:30 PM in winter). Tower and treasury close earlier at 6:00 PM (5:00 PM in winter). Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

Is Cologne Cathedral open on Sundays?

Yes, the cathedral is open every day including Sundays with the same hours. However, parts may be closed during Sunday Mass services. Check our mass times page for the schedule.

Are Cologne Cathedral opening hours the same all year?

Hours vary slightly by season. Summer (May-Oct) has extended hours until 9:00 PM. Winter (Nov-Apr) closes earlier at 7:30 PM. Tower and treasury also have seasonal variations.

Can I visit Cologne Cathedral during Christmas?

Yes! The cathedral is open on Christmas Day, but opening hours may be adjusted for special services. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds during the Christmas market season.

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