Köln, or better known as Cologne by the rest of the world, has been continuously inhabited for over two millennia. Although it’s most notable landmark is the Kölner Dom, my favourite is the Roman German Museum just a hop, skip, and a step away from the Hauptbahnhof. On the outside, it features a “Roman Tower” which is a nice complement to the well-preserved Roman wall and Praetorium within the limits of the old town.
Der Heumarkt 
Roman Wall
The Roman German Museum’s pride and joy are the multiple, almost entirely intact mosaics and colourful frescoes that have stood the test of time. Then there’s the Flussgottmask – the mask of the god of rivers – which can be commonly found on tourist trap palm reading machines. Among the many pieces of jewellery you will find earrings that are intricately designed and handcrafted, a testament to Roman craftsmanship.
The Cologne Cathedral is not to be missed, if you are in goof health do pay the fee and walk up the spiral staircase to the top of the church tower – it is truly stunning. With a low-rise environment of a town developed in the 15th century there’s really not much to obstruct your view. Gaze at the mighty St. Martin’s Church or look over the Rhine to the convention centre.
Kölner Dom 
Kölner Dom Tower 
St. Martin’s Church 
After you descend, it may be a good idea to take a look at the historical Heumarkt, a former market that has not been converted into the city’s history museum. You may also want to visit the Altes Rathaus or some of the many towers dotted around the city, though some of the sights were closed for Christmas when I visited. If it is Christmas, fuel up with Glühwein and strudel in the Weinachtsmarkt before heading to Bielefeld to investigate if it’s a site of alien landings…
