Shopping in Cologne - authentic goods, best outlets, malls and boutiques

Cologne is a mosaic of shopping streets with lots of exciting shops located in historical buildings, and markets where you can walk and enjoy your holiday all day long. In the very heart of the Old Town is a popular Hohe Strasse shopping street. It will be difficult to find a more interesting place for buying souvenirs, since numerous old workshops where unique things are done, are found on this street. There are popular clothing stores with democratic prices, and plenty of cosy restaurants and cafes, where you can relax after a shopping spree.

High-end perfumery remains Cologne's trademark for several hundred years. Farina old perfume house was opened as early as 1709. It is a real city attraction. Here, they sell the original cologne brand Farina 1709 Eau de Cologne Original, whose secret of production is kept in the utmost confidence. This historic store is much focused on tourists, so you can buy very beautiful miniature bottles of cologne for 4 euros only.

Not far from the railway station is German Souvenirs store, which also remains at the height of popularity with tourists. It sells traditional souvenirs with national symbols at very affordable prices. Here, you can buy excellent T-shirts for 3 euros, miniature models of Cologne Cathedral, magnets and calendars, as well as plenty of other interesting souvenirs. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Cologne is a perfect place for lovers of sweets. Numerous historical confectionaries operate here. One of the most famous one is Hussel. This is a real paradise for those with a sweet tooth. In this store, hundreds of branded varieties of chocolate and chocolate sweets are available to customers, yet, you can buy delicious figured chocolate that resembles real works of art. Here, they sell candy with bitter pepper for lovers of exotic, delicate milk chocolate for romantic natures, as well as dozens of varieties of chocolate and sweets with fruit fillings that children like so much. There are also chocolate gift sets, which tourists buy as souvenirs.

Travellers who like to wander in big shopping centres should go straight to Opern Passagen, the largest department store in Cologne. It can also be described as a historical attraction of the city, whose opening was held in 1964. The historic building has been completely restored recently. Nowadays, trade pavillions occupy more than 9000 sq.m. of its size. The most prestigious stores, including Casa Lana, Thomas Sabo and Villeroy & Boch boutiques are found here. It is here, that the most inveterate mods and fashionistas go in search for new accessories. Yet, you will find several popular cafes and restaurants there.

In Cologne there are many specialized beer stores, one of them is located next to the Altermarkt square. In Kölsch store you can buy chic pint glasses and a lot of souvenir attributes with symbols of the city. You can buy traditional tall Stangen glasses. In the city, it's customary to drink beer out of them.