▲ Cologne: Located on the banks of the Rhine River in western Germany, Cologne is a historic cultural city and major industrial hub, ranking as Germany's fourth-largest city. Its history dates back to the 1st century BC when Roman Emperor Claudius designated it as a colony in 50 AD, eventually evolving into modern-day Cologne. As one of Germany's three major carnival celebration centers, the city attracts numerous travelers with its rich historical landmarks and unique urban charm.
▲ Hohenzollern Bridge: Built between 1907 and 1911, this railway bridge connects Cologne Cathedral with Cologne Central Station. Featuring neo-Romanesque architecture, the bridge spans 409.19 meters in length. Adorned with colorful "love locks," it has become one of Cologne's most romantic landmarks.
▲ Cologne's Historische Altstadt: Stretching along the Rhine River, it's brimming with historic charm. Narrow alleys are lined with centuries-old, colorful houses that now mostly house boutiques, galleries, bars, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the famous Kölsch beer here while soaking up the authentic local atmosphere.
▲ Rhine River: The Rhine River is one of the longest rivers in Europe, stretching approximately 1,232 km from its source in the Swiss Alps through Germany and other countries before emptying into the North Sea. As Germany's mother river, it flows through downtown Cologne, providing both stunning natural views and vital water transportation. The riverside promenade along the Rhine offers visitors a perfect spot for leisurely walks.
▲ Cologne Cathedral: Officially named the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Mary, this Gothic Catholic church is located in Cologne and serves as the city's iconic landmark. Construction began in 1248 and was completed in 1880, making it one of Europe's longest-running architectural projects. Combining grandeur with intricate detail, it is hailed as the perfect exemplar of Gothic cathedral architecture and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1996.
▲ The Cologne Chocolate Museum (Imhoff Chocolate Museum) is a signature attraction in Cologne. As one of the world's most representative chocolate-themed museums, it draws around 650,000 visitors annually, second only to the Cologne Cathedral, making it one of the city's iconic landmarks. Inside, you'll find a 10-meter-tall cocoa greenhouse, a glass chocolate factory, and a 3-meter-high giant chocolate fountain, offering an immersive experience of chocolate's journey from cultivation to production. Combining cultural exhibits with interactive fun, this sweet landmark is a must-visit in Cologne.
