St. Andreas
A historic Romanesque Catholic church in Cologne, featuring a crypt with notable figures and a blend of Gothic furnishings and Christian art.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. Andreas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Romanesque Catholic church in Cologne, featuring a crypt with notable figures and a blend of Gothic furnishings and Christian art.
"Probably one of the most impressive in Köln, with a crypt, amazing sculptures, artefacts, fresque and stained glass!"
🎯 Explore the Crypt
Don't miss the crypt with St. Albertus Magnus's remains and the Maccabee shrine. :scroll:
🎨 Admire the Art
Enjoy the mix of contemporary and traditional stained glass and art depicting St. Andrew. :frame_photo:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Crypt of St. Albertus Magnus
Underneath the church
Discover the final resting place of the 13th-century theologian and philosopher, St. Albertus Magnus, in a stone sarcophagus.

Maccabee Shrine
Crypt
See the gilded reliquary said to contain relics of the seven holy Maccabee brothers and their mother.

Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Admire a captivating blend of contemporary and traditional stained glass, illuminating the church's interior.

Art Depicting St. Andrew
Interior
Explore sculptures and paintings that tell the story of Saint Andrew, including his crucifixion.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to St. Andreas
Exploring St. Andreas's Treasures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Crypt
Don't miss the crypt with St. Albertus Magnus's remains and the Maccabee shrine. :scroll:
🎨 Admire the Art
Enjoy the mix of contemporary and traditional stained glass and art depicting St. Andrew. :frame_photo:
🆓 Free Art Tours
Check for free afternoon tours of art and stained glass; guides are often knowledgeable. :microphone:
📍 Proximity to Dom
St. Andreas is just a short walk from the Cologne Cathedral, making it easy to visit both. :church:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Crypt
Don't miss the crypt with St. Albertus Magnus's remains and the Maccabee shrine. :scroll:
🎨 Admire the Art
Enjoy the mix of contemporary and traditional stained glass and art depicting St. Andrew. :frame_photo:
🆓 Free Art Tours
Check for free afternoon tours of art and stained glass; guides are often knowledgeable. :microphone:
📍 Proximity to Dom
St. Andreas is just a short walk from the Cologne Cathedral, making it easy to visit both. :church:
🤫 Respectful Visits
Be mindful of ongoing services; some visitors have reported feeling unwelcome during mass. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Andreas is praised for its beautiful Christian art, impressive stained glass, and significant crypt, offering a less crowded alternative to the nearby Dom. While some visitors find it a must-see for its historical and artistic value, a few have noted less welcoming experiences during services.
"Quite amazing that there are so many large churches in close proximity to each other. St Andrew is just a few hundred meters from the dome and much less visited. It’s a beautiful building and has a quaint crypt downstairs."
Thomas Meyer
"Beautiful Christian art! There is a free tour of the art pieces and stained glass some afternoons at 4pm. The lady that showed on a Fri afternoon was very well versed and speaks excellent English. Highly recommended church just metres outside of the Köln Dom!"
Maya lim
"Fantastic Church with a crypt, amazing sculptures, artefacts, fresque and stained glass! Probably one of the most impressive in Köln"
Jeronimas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Andreas is conveniently located in Cologne's old town, very close to the Cologne Cathedral (Dom). You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) is also a pleasant option, taking about 10-15 minutes.
Yes, St. Andreas is situated just a few hundred meters from the iconic Cologne Cathedral, making it quite easy to locate. Its proximity to major landmarks ensures you won't have trouble finding it.
For a day trip, arriving by train to Cologne Hauptbahnhof is ideal. From there, St. Andreas is a short walk. If you're coming from within the city, trams and buses are efficient options.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of St. Andreas can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a multi-story car park a short walk away if you are driving.
Absolutely! St. Andreas is perfectly situated to be combined with visits to the Cologne Cathedral, the Roman-Germanic Museum, and other historical sites in the old town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St. Andreas church itself is generally free. However, access to specific areas like the crypt or special exhibitions might incur a small fee or be part of a guided tour.
Opening hours can vary, but churches like St. Andreas are typically open during daylight hours for visitors. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays or special events.
Yes, guided tours are sometimes available, particularly for the art and stained glass. These tours often take place on specific afternoons and can provide valuable insights.
While the church is free to enter, there might be a small fee or donation requested for access to the crypt to help with its upkeep.
For specific events like concerts (e.g., Choral Evensong or organ recitals), tickets may be available for purchase online or at the venue. Check event listings for details.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside St. Andreas, you'll find beautiful Christian art, a mix of contemporary and traditional stained glass windows, and sculptures depicting St. Andrew. The crypt is a significant highlight.
The crypt contains the remains of St. Albertus Magnus in a stone sarcophagus and the Maccabee shrine, a gilded reliquary believed to hold relics of the seven holy Maccabee brothers.
Yes, St. Andreas offers many opportunities for photography, especially with its stained glass and artistic elements. However, always be respectful of ongoing services and any posted photography restrictions.
While generally quieter than the Dom, St. Andreas can experience periods of quiet reflection. However, some visitors have noted that during services, the atmosphere can be more active, and it's important to be mindful of worshippers.
St. Andreas is primarily Romanesque in style, with some Gothic furnishings. It was first built in the 10th century and rebuilt in the Romanesque style in the 12th century.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants located directly inside St. Andreas church. However, being in the heart of Cologne's old town, you'll find numerous dining options just a short walk away.
The area around St. Andreas offers a wide variety of culinary experiences, from traditional German pubs and cafes to international cuisine. You'll find something to suit every taste and budget.
Yes, numerous cafes are located in the vicinity of St. Andreas, perfect for a coffee break or a light snack while exploring the area.
Many visitors enjoy lunch at the restaurants near St. Andreas before or after attending events like the 'lunch concerts' held there.
Absolutely. While there are upscale dining options, you can also find more affordable eateries, bakeries, and Imbiss (snack stands) in the surrounding streets.
📸 📸 Photography
The stained glass windows, the intricate details of the sculptures, the altar, and the crypt are all excellent subjects for photography inside St. Andreas.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside St. Andreas, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash if it might disturb others.
Late afternoon can be ideal, as the light filtering through the stained glass can create beautiful effects. However, the church is also atmospheric at other times.
While not always explicitly stated, it's courteous to avoid intrusive photography, especially during religious services. Some specific exhibits or areas might have signage regarding photography.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in urban areas like Cologne, especially around historical buildings and churches, due to privacy and safety regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that St. Andreas is an active place of worship. While generally welcoming, it's important to ensure children are respectful during services. The church is not a playground, so managing expectations for very young children is key. Consider a shorter visit focused on the main nave and perhaps a quick peek into the crypt.
⛪ Religious & History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the crypt and examine the various artworks and stained glass windows, which tell stories of faith and local history. If possible, attending a service or a concert can provide a deeper spiritual and cultural connection to the site.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Couples
Consider timing your visit for an afternoon art tour to gain more context, or simply wander through the nave and crypt at your own pace. The church offers a moment of calm and beauty amidst the city's bustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of St. Andreas
The church's interior showcases a fascinating blend of historical periods, incorporating Gothic furnishings alongside its Romanesque architecture. This layering of styles reflects its long and evolving history. Visitors can explore the remnants of its past, offering a glimpse into medieval religious life and art.
Key historical figures are associated with St. Andreas, most notably St. Albertus Magnus, a renowned 13th-century theologian and philosopher whose remains are interred in the church's crypt. This connection adds a layer of intellectual and spiritual significance to the site, drawing those interested in historical figures and religious heritage.
Artistic Treasures of St. Andreas
Beyond the stained glass, the church houses various sculptures and paintings, many of which depict its patron saint, Saint Andrew, and key moments from his life, including his crucifixion. These artworks provide visual narratives and add to the spiritual ambiance of the space.
Special attention is given to the crypt, which not only holds the remains of St. Albertus Magnus but also the Maccabee shrine. This gilded reliquary is a significant artifact, traditionally believed to contain relics of the seven holy Maccabee brothers and their mother Salome, adding a layer of historical and religious intrigue.
Experiencing St. Andreas: Beyond the Tourist Trail
Attending a service or a concert at St. Andreas can be a particularly enriching experience. The church hosts events like Choral Evensong and 'lunch concerts,' providing an opportunity to hear beautiful music in a sacred setting. These events offer a chance to connect with the living community of the church.
For those interested in a more in-depth understanding, guided tours are sometimes available, focusing on the church's art and history. These tours, often led by knowledgeable individuals, can significantly enhance the visitor's appreciation of the site's artistic and historical significance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit