The 11.11

11.11 is the big kick-off to the Carnival of Cologne. It is the day when all of Cologne rolls out of bed "early in the morning", dresses up in colourful costumes and crazy make-up, and then sets with a lot of alcohol and a good mood for the city centre or a private carnival party organised by friends. The 11.11 is our bright spot in the otherwise grey month of November and the reason why we would never, ever cross this month out of our calendar. There is a reason why carnival is our 5th season of the year. The 11.11 is actually "just" the big kick-off day, when we all count down from 10 and the confetti cannons go off at 11.11 sharp - no joke. So you HAVE to come to Cologne for this at some point. It's still not! The long, over-the-top and completely crazy carnival weekend when the whole of Cologne goes crazy from Thursday to the following Tuesday. That's not until February/March. Nevertheless, the 11.11 is... (smileeeeeys) Just come and celebrate with us! :D

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The view on the cathedral and the Hohenzollern bridge

Oh yay! 😍 There really is no better view in entire Cologne. Really not. Even the view of the cathedral from the LVR can't stand against this one. The bridge with all its locks and the cathedral at the end is just so wonderfully majestatic. And of course the suburban and regional trains crossing the bridge can´t be left out! :) In good weather, the sunlight also reflects in the still halfway clean locks and makes them shine :D The view is just really beautiful and one of my top 3 in Cologne. You simply can't leave without taking in this view. A little tip: Sit on the little wall at the very front - yes, I know it goes down behind it, but you can sit sideways or just lean against the wall - but really go to the little wall or sit down and let it sink in. (smileys!!!)

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Beach at the Rheinpark

Why that beach has a separate post, although I have already presented the Rheinpark? Because this beach offers one of the most beautiful views of the cathedral. Seriously, I hardly know a better one. I'd even say it's the best when you're only looking at the cathedral. You have to imagine it like this: you sit down on a stony beach by the water and you can look at the beautiful landmark of our city in all its glory. While you do that, you can have a picnic or play ball, or read, sleep, whatever. Doesn't that sound mega? People also sit down on the beach here when the Cologne Lights (Post) take place in summer, which is a beautiful firework that tells a story accompanied by music. Absolute event highlight of Cologne. But back to the beach. I personally find the view simply breathtaking. Therefore... If the sun is shining, go there and simply enjoy the view. You won't want to leave that soon again. Promise. :D

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The Cathedral

The Cathedral of Cologne! The landmark of my home. Not only the absolute number 1 of main attractions, must-have-seens and whatnot, but also Cologne's pride. I promise you, at any time of the day or night, you will find people looking up at the cathedral with admiration, no matter from what perspective. Yes, also people from Cologne. Because we love our cathedral. For us, it is the most beautiful, the most amazing and the most enchanting cathedral in the world. In fact, even I - I really don't believe in God and am very difficult to impress by churches and cathedrals - like to go to the cathedral. It is simply an imposing and truly beautiful building. Also from the inside :D Therefore: if you're in Cologne and can't even make it into the cathedral, I'll make you a head shorter. And that's no joke! No, but seriously now. You're really missing out. And since the cathedral is right next to the main station, take your time and make the short trip. Even if you have to hurry. The Cathedral of cologne is simply worth it.

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