If you ask a German what he can tell you about Cologne the first word you will hear is carnival! The so called 'fifth season' of the year takes six days. During this time the normal life stops and the only things of importance are parades, carnival parties and costumes. Besides this, Cologne has a lot more to offer. If you ever travel to Cologne just before Christmas, do not miss the huge Christmas market where you can find every kind of candy, presents and loads of Christmas decorations.
Furthermore Cologne has an almost 160 meter high church called Koelner Dom. When you have enough time, climb up the 509 steps. You will not regret it, the view from the top of the Dom is breath taking. Another must see, is the chocolate museum in which a huge chocolate fountain is installed and the visitors are allowed to try as much as they want. Before you leave Cologne do not forget to drink a Koelsch. This special beer is only brewed in the area of Cologne.