RHINE GOLD
Visitors to the cathedral city of Cologne have 2,000 years of German history to explore, writes Kalpana Sunder
Why Cologne?
This is the cultural hub of Germany’s north-west. Known for its towering Gothic cathedral, the Koln Dom, the city was established 2,000 years ago while in the hands of the Romans. The Old Town was destroyed during the Second World War, but was rebuilt with meticulous detail. Just 45 kilometres from Dusseldorf, Cologne is on the River Rhine and is rich in architecture, attractions and culture – there are 36 museums across the city. Its Roman heritage is noticeable throughout, from old fortifications and towers to Roman sewers, and a subterranean governors’ palace. That being said, it has a youthful vibe too with a great café culture and areas like Ehrenfeld that illustrate modern graffiti and street art.
A comfortable bed
The classic Excelsior Ernst (www.excelsiorhotelernst.com) in the inner city is a good option. It is right beside the railway station and within walking distance of many attractions.
The hotel, which has plenty of marble columns, dark wood and gold fittings, has an old world charm. There are two dining options here, including a restaurant with a Michelin star. Doubles start from about Dh1,090 per night, including breakfast.
The Art’otel by Park Plaza (www.artotels.com) in the redeveloped port area is another option worth considering. You’ll be surrounded by bright paintings and clean white interiors and rooms are fresh and airy.
The restaurant has a patio overlooking the Rhine River and serves Pan-Asian cuisine. Doubles start from Dh1,000 per night, including breakfast.
For the more budget conscious traveller, the Stadthotel am Romerturm (www.stadthotel-roemerturm.de/en) is a good one. It is situated near one of the Roman towers and is within walking distance of the Cologne cathedral. Double rooms start from about Dh345 per night, including breakfast.
Find your feet
Those who enjoy walking will find it easy to discover this city on foot. Start at the epicentre – the gargantuan Gothic cathedral the Koln Dom (www. colognecathedral.net) and then make your way south from there to the Old Town, where cobbled alleys will take you back to times long ago. Walk through the Lintgasse, which is lined with half-timbered traditional houses, to Great St Martin Church and the Fischmarkt, where a seafood lunch is a must.
It’s worth stopping by the Ludwig Museum of Art (www.ludwigmuseum.de/ en), and the Romano German Museum (www.