Cologne Cathedral Opening Hours

Plan your visit with the latest opening times for the Cathedral, Tower Climb, and Treasury.

Cologne Cathedral is an active church, and hours can change for services and special events. Tourist visits are restricted during mass. Always check the official notices on-site for any last-minute changes. For crowd information, see our best time to visit guide.

Opening Hours 2026

Cathedral (Tourist Visits)

Monday – Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

South Tower Climb

March – October9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
November – February9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Cathedral Treasury

Daily10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Important: The cathedral is open for prayer and worship daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but tourist access is limited to the hours above. Last admission for the tower is 30 minutes before closing. The tower and treasury may be closed on certain holidays like Christmas Day and during Carnival.

Hours FAQ

Common questions about visiting times

Why are tourist hours different from general opening hours?
The cathedral is an active place of worship with daily masses and services. Tourist visiting hours are scheduled around these liturgical events to maintain the sanctity of the space.
What time is the last entry for the tower climb?
Last admission to the tower is always 30 minutes before the listed closing time.
Is the cathedral open on public holidays?
It is generally open, but visiting hours are often restricted, especially on major religious holidays like Christmas and Easter. The tower and treasury are typically closed on Christmas Day (Dec 25).
Can I visit during a church service?
You may enter for worship, but general sightseeing is not permitted during services. Visitors are asked to remain quiet and respectful.
Do the hours change often?
The seasonal hours for the tower are consistent, but daily tourist hours for the main nave can be adjusted for special masses or events. It's always a good idea to check the notices at the entrance on the day of your visit.
Are the tower and treasury open at the same times?
No, they have separate hours. The treasury generally opens at 10:00 AM, while the tower opens at 9:00 AM. The tower's closing time changes seasonally, while the treasury's is more consistent.
View Guided Tours