Traditions and culture in Cologne

Following the city's early origins linked to Julia Aggripina in the first century AD, it became a powerful Catholic archbishopric in the Dark Ages and still retains that religious identity today.

Cologne prospered in the 19th century through industrialisation but it was devastated during both world wars, with a reported 95 per cent of its centre being destroyed by Allied bombs.

However, the city has recovered significantly after a long and gruelling rebuilding effort and it now plays host to strong automotive and pharmaceutical industries.

While the region is best known for 'Eau de Cologne', perhaps the biggest cultural highlight every year is the Cologne Carnival, which is one of the largest street parties in Europe.

It officially begins on November 11th at 11:00 local time and runs until Ash Wednesday, with the preceding Thursday seeing a reported one million people taking to the streets to celebrate.

Indeed, anyone about to book flights to the city would do well to try to make their holiday fall during the carnival as it is well worth being a part of.

Things to do in Cologne

Cologne is a fantastically versatile city, offering visitors a stunning combination of grand architecture, museums, top-class theatres and concerts, great nightlife and extensive shopping opportunities.

Among the best places to visit during a holiday in the city are the Museum Ludwig for its modern art and the Fragrance Museum Farina House (birthplace of Eau de Cologne).

On top of that, the famous Cologne Cathedral - which is a World Heritage Site and its unofficial symbol - is a fabulous sight, although the locals refer to it as the 'eternal construction site' due to ongoing renovation.

If cheap flights to the city can be snapped up, there should be plenty of chances to bring home souvenirs or spend the extra pennies in one of its many department stores.

In addition, there are a wide range of excellent eateries to choose from and the local beer is particularly appealing for visitors, as you would expect from Germany's fourth-largest city.

Weather in Cologne

Cologne is unusual in that it receives the vast majority of its rainfall during the summer months of July and August.

As a result, the weather tends to be at its most pleasant in spring - between March and May - and in September and October, when autumn draws in.

The maximum temperature you can expect during the day in Cologne is around 24C and it must be noted that the winters can be particularly chilly.

Destination checklist for Cologne

Cologne has a population of 965,300.

The city is one hour ahead of GMT/UTC time.

The official currency is the euro.

German is the official language spoken.

The city's international dialling code is +49.