Traditions and culture in Cologne

Prior to being almost entirely destroyed by bombing in the second world war, Cologne was one of Europe's great medieval gems.

However, despite suffering at the hands of history, the city has risen from the ashes to establish a new identity, with the few remaining Gothic buildings joined by some of the finest examples of modernist architecture on the continent.

Despite the tough history, the spirit of the people of Cologne has remained intact, with centuries-old traditions still adhered to.

As such, visitors can often be confused by the distinctive dialect spoken in the city, while the local beer hall plays a key role in community relations all across Cologne, with a visit to such an establishment one of the 'must dos' for a holiday to this part of Germany.

Alongside a number of top galleries and museums, Cologne's cultural scene has benefitted from the recent addition of the philharmonic music hall, which had to be constructed underground so as to enable the cathedral to carry on dominating the skyline.

Things to do in Cologne

Cologne's cathedral – or Dom – is the first thing visitors arriving in the city by train are greeted with, and its majestic Gothic spires dominate the skyline from all angles.

A visit to the Unesco-listed cathedral is arguably the true highlight of a trip to the city, with entrance fees and the charge to take the hour-long hike to the top of the south tower and back down, both well worth the money.

Alongside the Dom, the city's famous '12 Romanesque churches' dotted about the city centre are also worth visiting, with the vast green parks encircling the city the perfect place to take a break from a tour of the historical sites.

Top museums in Cologne include the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, which showcases Medieval art, and the more modern Angewandte Kunst gallery.

Away from the often-crowded tourist spots, it's possible to get an insight into the real Cologne by wandering around the 'Vedeel', or City Quarters, which are home to bohemian bars, cafes and boutique shops, as well as some of the better independent hotels.

For the best hotels, however, it's best to visit the city during the February Winter Carnival, though street parties happen most of the year round.

Weather in Cologne

Cologne's weather shouldn't come as a shock to visitors from the UK or the rest of Western Europe.

As is to be expected, June, July and August are the best time for high temperatures and relatively-guaranteed sunshine, while the Winter Festival coincides with the coldest time of the year in the city, though snow is rare.

Destination checklist for Cologne

Antwerp has a population of 995,000

The city is one hour ahead of GMT

The official languages spoken in Cologne is German

The official currency of Germany is the Euro

The city's international dialling code is +49