Cologne
There are many things to see in Cologne, and they are all overshadowed by the cathedral. At 144.5 metres long and 157.38 metres high, this is the third-highest church building in the world. The view over Cologne, the Rhine and the surrounding areas makes climbing the south tower’s 533 steps well worth the effort. The basilica of Great St Martin Church is another fantastic sight. The brightly coloured houses of Cologne’s fish market seem to glow in front of it. Located away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, you can soak up the atmosphere of the old town here. During carnival season, locals sing ‘Das Herz der Welt, das schlägt am Rhein’ (‘The heart of the world beats on the Rhine’) – and when you get to know the people of Cologne, you’ll no doubt agree with this sentiment.