This bookstore is located inside Cologne's main train station (Hbf) and we went there yesterday…read morewhile waiting for our train back to Frankfurt. The store is large and it has a terrific selection, with the exception of too few photography & art books. Also, everyone working there was very friendly and helpful.

Located inside the central station: good spot for killing time while waiting for a train (the…read moreDouglas on the other side is also a good spot for this but less intellectual). Good selection of international press (I found le monde diplo, charlie hebdo, le monde) and a very good selection of books in English (classics, fiction and non fiction, last time I visited they had several books by Chomsky). The selection in French is less good, though, mostly current 'navets' and translations.

One of the few remaining independent, innovative CD/vinyl stores in Europe. Just a short walk from…read moreNeumarkt, but if you want interesting stuff, the chance to browse and to listen, this is a great place. Staff friendly and are interested in the music that they sell. In this time of downloading and mail order it is great to have somewhere to just go to, as well.

From the owner: Schallplatten und CDs. Elektronische und experimentelle Musik, Jazz, Improv, Noise, Elektroakustik,…read moreAmbient, Electronika, House, Techno, Disco, Krautrock, Wave, Punk, Indie, Neue Musik, Klassik, Global & Library. Neu und Second Hand. Bücher & Magazine, Tapes & DVDs. Seit 1995.

The reference shop for tobacco aficionados in Cologne. Nice humidor with a good cigar selection and…read morelarge assortment of pipes. Michael was knowledgeable and supportive. I could even enjoy my stick there!