Cologne

💡 About Cologne

Cologne (Köln), sprawling along the banks of the Rhine, is one of Germany's oldest cities, founded by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. It is dominated by its breathtaking cathedral, the Kölner Dom, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture whose twin spires soar 157 metres skyward and took over 600 years to complete.

The cathedral, which miraculously survived the wartime bombing that flattened much of the city, is Germany's most visited landmark, drawing millions who climb its towers and marvel at the shrine said to hold the relics of the Three Wise Men. Around it, the rebuilt old town buzzes with life.

Cologne is famous for its exuberant Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe, when the entire city erupts into costume, music and celebration for days on end. It is also the home of Kölsch, both the local dialect and a distinctive pale beer served in small glasses by fast-moving waiters called Köbes.

Open-minded, tolerant and irrepressibly cheerful, Cologne has a warmth that sets it apart from other German cities. Its riverside promenades, museums and thriving arts scene make it one of the country's most enjoyable destinations.

⭐ Known For