The three cities of Germany: part three

The third part of our soon-to-be-ending journey was in the gorgeous Cologne. To say I can’t get enough of Germany is an understatement, I love everything about this country and finishing it here was icing on the cake. There’s great food, great beer, lovely people who all speak English and great weather.

Again, it may not be on Berlin’s level of utter amazingness, but Cologne is an interesting and worthwhile place to stop, explore and discover. This 2,000 year old city lines either side of the Rhine River and is a major cultural hub. Be amazed at the gothic architecture, art masterpieces in galleries including works from Picasso, pop in a bit of shopping and to-die-for food and Cologne is a place to remember.

Where to stay

Staying in the heart of the action and near a tram line, Black Sheep Hostel made it effortless to wander around. Plus there was an incredibly cheap café/restaurant opposite the hostel that served a schnitzel for just $4 euros, beer for $1 euro and pizza for $3euro. For backpackers on a tight budget, it’s a dream to be able to eat out for so cheap and for such good food. Not to mention the hundreds of kebab places where for $4euros you can purchase a doner kebab which is stuffed so big you’ll feel sick after finishing it. Also coincidentally a great meal before a long bus trip as you fall asleep and never get hungry!

Things to do

The park, Volksgarten, is a beautiful and serene garden with a café/bar where one can sit and enjoy a snack. A small man-made lake is surrounded on one side with big chairs which are a real treat to sit back and relax on. To the left of the lake is a gently sloping iridescent green hill where people mill about, enjoying some food or playing games. It is said under this hill are the ruins of Nazi architecture and the park was built on top to remember better things.

Of course a special mention to food, as it has to be one of the greatest joys to eat in a foreign country. While it may not be a German speciality, sometimes there’s nothing like a meal from home and we were promised a locals-only burger shop served a great burger. Excited and hungry we walked down to order a cheeseburger with bacon, because it is the best combo ever, and were not disappointed. It was arguably one of the best burgers I’ve ever had – ask around and find this gem of a place. Or stick to the German specialities and fill yourself with sausages, kebabs and any manner of meat. And try a hot pork roll from any small store tucked away in alleyways – soft fresh bread, sweet juicy pork and crisp crackling. You can thank me later.

Cologne is also home to a number of museums, one in particular was extremely moving, National Socialism Documentation Centre. It’s actually an old Nazi prison and inside is a book of real stories about the people who came through it. It is a moving tribute and one I completely recommend. And for art buffs, stop in to see Museum Ludwig.

Walk over Hohenzollern Bridge to see the city from a new perspective, or check out the love padlocks which citizens and tourists alike have affixed to the bridge. Climb the KolnTriangle for panoramic views of the whole city, including a gorgeous view of the intricate Cologne Cathedral. I recommend climbing up this power as opposed to Cologne Cathedral as then you actually get to see the Cathedral! And, then later go walk around the church and take in the detail. It’s mind blowing how amazing it is.

Of course there are many beautiful buildings to check out too. If you’re short on time make sure to visit the Cologne Cathedral and Old Town Hall – stand underneath the sculptures on the wall and look up, you may see a naked bum!