Image: Roman Burki / Unsplash

COLOGNE: The right side of the Rhine in Cologne is called Schäl Sick, which can be translated into the wrong side. When the Romans settled the left side of the Rhine back then, they saw the river as the demarcation to the other side. The former mayor Konrad Adenauer even went so far as to claim that behind Deutz Siberia began. These that's far from the truth so we've compiled our top tips to help you visit the wrong side for all the right reasons.

A New Perspective on Things

The World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral is located on the left side of the Rhine and a must-see on any visit to the 2000 year old city of Cologne. Whilst most tourists flock tot the front of the buidling for photos,  the promenade of the Rhine (on the right side of the river) offers the most fantastic perspective of the German  and Gothic architecture.

Top Tip: When you watch the cathedral there at sunrise, you'll carry the glow all day. The night time views are equally as illuminating.

It's Romanesque and Romantic

In the midst of Cologne's modern buildings, you'll find historic treasures like the Abbey Deutz Benedictine Monastery, which was founded back in 1003. Roman romains have been found at this excavation site. The Abbey was heavily damaged in World War !! and only the ground floor and remnants of the Romanesque cellar were preserved. Reconstruction took place in the 1970s. 

For those that like the heady mix of old and new, we recommend a stay at the brand new Adina Hotel Cologne. And if you head south for a half-hour wander along the Rhine, you're bound to stumble across the Abbey Deutz and other bygone treasures. 

Feed Your Shopping Desires

Shopaholics, the thought of 110 stores on three levels is enough to get the pulse racing. Take it from us, you won't manage to see everything in the Köln Arcaden  in a day, so we recommend you focus on a selection of your favorite stores and shot to you drop. On the doorstep of the arcade, you'll spot the city's old water tower dating from 1914, which adds a little culture to the shoping trip (and perhaps a little justification for any extravagant purchases).

While Away the Hours on Leisure Island 

Cologne Deutz offers easy access to the regiona's famous Zündorf peninsula. From the city centre, it's a 12 kilometre walk or ride, along the Rhine promenade to reach this wonderful recreational area. With sandy beaches, circular hiking trails, flea and craft markets, enchanting forest landscapes and traditional buildings such as half-timbered houses or churches – the peninsula has a lot to offer for every taste and every season.

Seal Your Love at Hohenzollerbrücke

Ever thought of pledging your eternal love toyour life partner? The Hohenzollerbrücke in Cologne is full of padlocks of love struck couples and legend says the key has to be thrown into the Rhine after it has been placed in the lock. If you're looking for the perfect spot, locals say there is much more space on the side of the Köln Deutz than on the left side of the Rhine. 

Where to stay

The brand new Adina Hotel in Cologne Deutz is part of the urban development that is transforming the right side of the Rhine River and is our top tip for a great night sleep when visiting Cologne.

Peace of mind when you stay with us: Introducing Clean Touch.