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Digital Nomad Guide to Cologne, Germany | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Cologne, Germany

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Cologne, Germany is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and affordable cost of living. The city is home to a diverse population of over 1 million people, making it a great place to meet new people and explore different cultures. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Cologne is approximately $1,500 USD, including rent, food, and entertainment. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Cologne is around $1,000 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Cologne is Ehrenfeld, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse restaurants, and affordable housing. The weather in Cologne, Germany is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (0-20 Celsius) throughout the year.

How do I meet people in Cologne?

When we asked people living in Cologne about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Cologne often join local clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as this can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals," said one expat who made the move to Cologne.

What is life like in Cologne?

When we asked people living in Cologne what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Cologne is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its famous cathedral to its many museums and galleries. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's lively nightlife, its numerous parks and green spaces, and its excellent public transport system. The city also has a strong international community, with many expats and digital nomads from all over the world. The cost of living in Cologne is relatively low, making it an affordable place to live and work. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse culture, Cologne is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said one expat who made the move to Cologne.

Where should I live in Cologne?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Cologne is a great place to live, with plenty of options for housing. One of the best ways to find a place to live is to use online resources such as websites like ImmobilienScout24, which allows you to search for apartments and houses for rent in the city. Additionally, you can also look for housing through local newspapers, or by asking friends and family who live in the area. Additionally, there are many real estate agents in Cologne who can help you find the perfect place to live," explained one expat living in Cologne, Germany.

What do I need to know before moving to Cologne?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cologne, they said:

"Cologne is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to retire. Before retiring in Cologne, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as German is the official language of the city. Expats should also research the cost of living in Cologne, as it is slightly higher than the national average. Additionally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services in the city, as well as the quality of public transportation. Finally, expats should take the time to explore the city and its many attractions, such as its historic churches, museums, and parks," said one person in Cologne.

What do people appreciate most about the culture in Cologne?

"Expats in Cologne appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theaters. They also enjoy the city's rich history, with its many historical sites and monuments. The city's friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to live. Expats also appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Finally, the city's diverse culinary scene, with its many restaurants, cafes, and bars, is a great way to experience the local culture," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Cologne.

"Intelligent and provoking conversation European holidays Culture is everday International feelings Order and Structure is sometimes a good thing Life is about living and not just working," explained one person living in Cologne, Germany.

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Cologne?

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Cologne is the language barrier. Although many people in the city speak English, the majority of the population speaks German, and it can be difficult for expats to communicate with locals without a good grasp of the language. Additionally, the local culture is quite traditional and conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more formal social norms. Finally, the cost of living in Cologne can be quite high, and expats may find it difficult to find affordable housing and other necessities," explained one person living in Cologne, Germany.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Cologne for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Cologne for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a visa. You will need to provide proof of your identity, proof of financial resources, and proof of health insurance. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of accommodation and proof of your purpose of stay," said one expat in Cologne.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Cologne?

We asked people in Cologne if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"Yes, but it is really a language mistake. My wife was 7mos pregnant and we went to a Spa region to find a hotel to relax and unwind for a couple of days. I went in to ask about availability and told the hotel clerk I wanted my wife to be 'Verdorben'. I thought I was saying that I wanted to spoil her with a luxurous experience, but apparently it literally means to spoil (ie. go rotten) and in the case of people it means to have them move into less respectable professions (ie. corrupt). The clerk was a little surprised especially after my wife came in to check on me. We then had a good laugh once she cleared up that I was still practicing new uses for my new found language skills," said one person in Cologne.

"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Cologne. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to greeting people. In Germany, it is customary to shake hands when greeting someone, and it is considered rude to hug or kiss someone you have just met. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English unless it is absolutely necessary," said one expat who made the move to Cologne.

What are healthcare services like in Cologne?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cologne, they replied:

"Cologne offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. In addition, there are numerous pharmacies, opticians, and other health-related services available. The city also has a number of health insurance providers that offer coverage for medical expenses. Furthermore, Cologne has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and mental health. Additionally, the city has a number of health promotion initiatives, such as health education programs and health screenings, to help citizens stay healthy," said one digital nomad in Cologne.

What are the pros and cons of living in Cologne?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Cologne appreciate the city's vibrant culture, with its many museums, galleries, and festivals. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, the city's low cost of living is attractive to expats and digital nomads. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the city's weather to be too cold and wet for their liking. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak German," explained one digital nomad living in Cologne, Germany.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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