Explore the oldest Central Cemetery of Cologne. Stroll through a wonderful park-like area and be surprised by extraordinary tomb stones and exciting stories about prominent Cologne citizens.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 2 hours: Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide: German
Wheelchair accessible
Private group

Highlights

Visit Melaten Cemetery and discover a peaceful oasis in Cologne
Be impressed by the architecture of the "Millionaires Alley"
Listen to the story of a drunkard who ended up with a part of his favorite pub
Visit the oldest grave of the cemetery

Full description

Melaten Cemetery, which is over two centuries old, is an oasis of peace and quiet in the midst of this vibrant metropolis. Start the tour at its old main entrance. Your local guide will give you a short history of the area, how it was a village for the leppers, a place of execution, and finally how it became a central cemetery.

Then, get ready to explore the area. Marvel at its parklike design and find numerous impressive monuments and objects of traditional and contemporary art. Admire Classicist to Neo-Gothic and Neo-Baroque grave monuments, symbols and sculptures.

Melaten Cemetery has about 55,000 graves. Walk along the main paths reserved for the wealthy known as the "Millionaires Alley". Discover curious stories about the prominent Cologne citizens buried here. The tour will end at the tomb of the architect of the graveyard.

Includes

Tour guide

Meeting point

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Important information

Know before you go

This tour will take place rain or shine.

Nearby destinations

Nearby sights

Cologne: Melaten Cemetery Celebrities and Curiosities

About this activity