Cologne Cathedral
by maykal
If you arrive by train, the first thing you will see upon exiting the station is the famous Cologne Cathedral towering above you. All the guidebooks rave about its beauty, but I found it a bit of a let down to be honest....probably not what you wanted to hear. Yes, it is quite beautiful, and it certainly is large, but not as impressive as I was expecting it to be. Somehow, it managed to escape being bombed by the Allies during WWII, which is very odd, as the neighbourhood surrounding the cathedral is all fairly modern, having been totally destroyed. But you can't come to Cologne without entering the cathedral (in German 'Dom'), and as it is free to enter, you have no excuse, although I think it would be much more impressive without all the tour groups, and it is well on the way to becoming some sort of religious zoo.
Going for a Jog
by damaris05
Every morning, while I was in Germany, a couple girls and I went jogging, enjoying the beautiful morning as the city prepared for another busy busy day!
One morning a girl and I took a different route, a bit longer, and got lost. Uh-oh! I, being the leader I am, pretended I knew where I was going even though i didn't, and managed to find our way back to the hostel. : - ) We enjoyed taking pictures during our adventurous jogs.
If you can find time, away from the typical schedule, and away from the group, I suggest you take it. Go out on a limb.
Main railway station
by mauro_pd
It's the main railway station in Cologne, placed beside the cathedral in the very heart of the city.
But it's also a shopping center with lots of snacks point and a funny flower shop ... if you're late showing your love to somebody before leaving just step in :-)))
Place where your mouth will water.
by superdan12 about Le Moissonnier
This restaurant is a Genuine Bistro type that you can get a very good plate of foods. They offer different class of French foods that is known to the whole world. This restaurant is a little bit expensive but it is actually worth the price when you experience eating it. This is a great place to dine with important clients or for a special romantic evening out on the town. This restaurant is very creative and also has a unique design in their facilities and also in the foods they serve. Don't miss to come here, this place will complete your stay in Cologne!
The Dom
by Johnscarroll
This is Germany's finest gothic cathedral. It is massive beyond belief - toweing over the heart of the old city.
Located just steps from the central railway station, it easy to see if you are just passing through but you have a couple extra hours to spare.
Take your time and enjoy the dark, mysterious, and cavernous interior. Just remember that tours are not available during religious services. This is still an active Roman Catholic parish. Be respectful of the history and holiness of this place. It's best, if you take pictures or video, to avoid the use of flash.
The stained glass windows alone are worth your time. Add on the scultures, high altar, memorials, and side chapels and one could easily spend 1-2 hours. I, unfortunately, only had one hour.
Entrance is free, but they do ask for donations. The exterior is undergoing a thorough cleaning and restoration so scaffolding is everywhere. Grime from war and the industrial age has never been washed off the stone exterior. It will probably be unrecognizable when they are done. The building has been colored brown and black for such a long time.
1. Sanctus Petrus
3. Lying on the grass by the river
Photo courtesy of Cologne Coach Service
Gift shop
