According to forum posts, there is a shared car rental office inside Köln Hauptbahnhof, although the rental cars are kept in nearby parking garages, not directly at the station.

Travelers have mentioned that Köln Hauptbahnhof is a major hub for both local and intercity train services, including the DB ICE trains. It provides direct connections to various destinations, including a short journey to Köln Messe/Deutz station across the Rhine.

Some users highlighted the availability of local public transit connections, including buses and trams, which facilitate easy access to other parts of the city and surrounding areas. The Hauptbahnhof's central location makes it a convenient point for starting city explorations or commuting to nearby cities.

According to forum posts, the Cologne Cathedral (Dom) is a highly recommended site, noted as the most visited sight in Germany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers have also mentioned the importance of visiting local museums, which offer rich historical and artistic experiences.

Some travelers suggested exploring the Schokoladenmuseum (Chocolate Museum), which is particularly enjoyable for children. Additionally, the house of Cologne 4711, originally a workshop and shop, is noted for its historical significance in the fragrance industry.

For those interested in outdoor activities, forum users recommended taking a river tour of Cologne. The Rhine River cruises are particularly popular, providing scenic views and a pleasant way to experience the local landscape.

Travelers have called out several nearby places worth visiting, such as Bonn, Aachen, and the Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. These locations are easily accessible and offer a variety of cultural and historical sites.

According to forum posts, staying near the Cologne central train station is recommended for convenience and accessibility to other parts of the city and nearby towns. This area is appreciated for its central location despite being described as very touristy and not very picturesque.

Some travelers suggested exploring nearby towns like Bonn, Brühl, or Aachen as alternatives to staying directly in Cologne. Bonn is described as picturesque and walkable, well-connected by train to Cologne. Aachen also offers picturesque settings and is well-connected, making it a suitable base for exploring the area.

For travelers with specific needs, such as requiring a quiet area or accessibility features like elevators, it is advised to use filters on hotel booking platforms to find suitable accommodations. Setting a price limit and selecting required amenities can help narrow down the choices effectively.

According to forum posts, the best way to purchase FC Köln match tickets is through the club's official website. Tickets often sell out quickly, especially for high-demand matches, so it's recommended to monitor the site regularly for ticket availability.

Some travelers mentioned that FC Köln games usually sell out through member sales. However, there's an official platform on the club's website where members can resell tickets if they cannot attend a match. It's suggested to check this resale option frequently as tickets might become available closer to the match day.

For many users, alternative sources like the secondary market on the club's site (Zweitmarkt) offer a chance to purchase tickets at face value plus a small markup. This is considered a legal and reliable method, contrasting with third-party resellers, which might pose risks of ticket invalidation at the stadium.

According to forum posts, Cologne's Christmas markets offer a wide variety of goods, including Christmas decorations, art handicrafts, and other merchandise. Travelers have mentioned that you can find everything from traditional festive items to unique artisan products.

Some travelers said that the markets are a great place to try traditional German food and drinks. Highlights include mulled wine, egg punch, Bratwurst, Currywurst, and Reibekuchen. For those preferring to dine away from the chilly outdoor markets, visiting a local Brauhaus for a Kölsch beer and traditional food is recommended.

Forum users have noted that while the markets are officially open until the 23rd of December, some stalls, especially those selling toys and decorations, may start packing up earlier in the day. However, the markets are described as lively and festive, maintaining a vibrant atmosphere right until closing.

According to forum posts, travelers have options for Rhine River cruises starting from Cologne. A popular choice includes taking a KD Rhine cruise from Cologne to Mainz. However, the most scenic part of the Rhine, as mentioned by some travelers, is between Bingen/Rüdesheim and St. Goar, where the Rheinfels castle is located. For the best scenery, it is recommended to focus on this stretch.

For many users, it's advisable not to purchase a Rhine pass but to buy cruise tickets directly at the promenade. Presenting a train ticket can offer a 20% discount with KD. This information is crucial for those looking to save while enjoying the cruise.

Travelers have called out that while planning a cruise, it's essential to check the official Köln-Düsseldorfer river cruise company website for accurate schedules and booking. This can avoid confusion and ensure a smooth travel experience.