A must-see is the Koeln...
by SOzolinsh
A must-see is the Koeln cathedral, built in the 1300's and heavily damaged in World War II. Renovation continues even today. This Gothic cathedral, with its ornate architecture and flying buttresses, is a feast for the eyes. The jovial atmosphere attained when congregating with friends at a beerhall near the town center, enjoying bratwurst, sauerkraut and beer brewed in-house.
Cologne Contrasts
by littlesam1
After seeing all of the churches, walls, and cathedrals you are faced with contrast of seeing modern Cologne. Here in the midst of all of the historic places is a very modern piece of street art attached to a light pole. This bear really caught our attention and made us smile at the contrasts you can find here.
I was told by a fellow VT member from Germany that this is not actually a bear. It is a mouse from a popular German television series. It also fun when someone from the area reads your page and helps with the details. Thanks go out to VT member Horscheck.
In '81, took the train...
by danmcf
Took the train in from Utrecht, the Netherlands. Just as all over Europe, these trains are the way to go.
The Cologne train station is one of th busiest in Europe, and it's located right next to the Dom. It can be rather awe inspiring to see this huge cathedral immediately as you walk out of the train station.
For a snack
by stiab3 about Neumarkt
There are loads of food stalls in Neumarkt. As we were walking through, we saw these potato cake things being fried and we were curious enough to try them. The potato-cake/fritter. Looks like shredded potato that's then fried and served with bacon (see pic).
Walk from brewery to brewery (Brauhauswanderweg)
by 50939
You can walk "von Brauhaus zu Brauhaus" (from brewery to brewery) through the old part of the town.
It is a journey through 12 breweries and 2000 years history. You will learn a lot about beer and the history of Cologne (from the Romas to today).
Unfortunally the website with the description is only in German.
But maybe I have time an can show you the way and the breweries;-))))