Visiting Cologne Cathedral will cost 12 euros from July

Tuesday 02 June 2026 - 15:45

From July, visitors to the famous Cologne Cathedral in Cologne will be required to pay an entry fee of 12 euros, according to church authorities. The decision applies to tourists visiting outside of religious services, while worshippers attending mass and children will continue to enter for free.

The cathedral administration explained that this new charge is not intended to generate profit but rather to support the preservation of the monument. As one of the most visited religious sites in Europe, receiving around six million visitors per year, the cathedral faces high maintenance costs linked to conservation, security, and daily operations. Authorities also stressed the need to build financial reserves to ensure its long-term survival.

Built over several centuries, from the 13th to the 19th century, Cologne Cathedral is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its scale, history, and cultural importance make it one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks.

However, the introduction of an entrance fee has sparked debate. Critics argue that the decision could change the cathedral’s traditional open-access spirit and make it feel more like a museum than a living place of worship. Supporters, on the other hand, believe the measure is necessary to protect the monument for future generations, especially given rising maintenance expenses.