City in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Healthcare in Cologne: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Cologne
Excellent care. Call 112 for emergencies and 116117 for out-of-hours doctors; English is widely spoken.
Hospitals for foreigners in Cologne
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Uniklinik Köln | University hospital with 24-hour emergency department |
| Kliniken der Stadt Köln | Municipal hospitals with emergency care |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: €60–140 ($68–158) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Germany: Excellent care. EU visitors use the EHIC; others pay privately unless insured. Call 116117 for out-of-hours doctors and 112 for emergencies.
- Pharmacies: Medicines, even ibuprofen and cold remedies, are sold only in an Apotheke; a rota pharmacy covers nights and Sundays.
- Health spending: US$6,849 per person a year (2024); 4.5 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 110 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 112 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000; residence permits need German-recognised health insurance.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Cologne for foreigners?
Uniklinik Köln: University hospital with 24-hour emergency department
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Cologne?
About €60–140 ($68–158) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Germany?
Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000; residence permits need German-recognised health insurance.
More about Cologne
Going to Cologne solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Cologne meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Germany
- KVB Cologne transport
- Cologne Bonn Airport
- Cologne tourism
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.