Cologne is one of Germany's most culturally, historically and architecturally significant cities - in addition to being the oldest - with a zest, an energy and a confidence borne from its status as one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

Cologne is essentially a medieval city, famous for its twin-spired cathedral and romantic panoramic views of the river Rhine. Cologne Cathedral is Germany's biggest and took over 600 years to complete. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one attraction that visitors must see, if only for the truly breathtaking views.

However, while the city boasts an impressive historical pedigree, with ruins and exhibits ranging from the Roman and medieval periods up to the modern day, Cologne is so much more than a conveniently compact archaeology tour.

Cologne is one of Germany's cultural and economic centres and plays host to the international Art Cologne fair, countless art galleries and over 30 outstanding museums. These include the Museum Ludwig (modern art), the Wallraf-Richartz Museum (14th-19th Century art), the R�misch-Germanisches Museum (Roman and Germanic history) and the Schn�tgen Museum (6th -19th Century religious art). Cologne also features top international exhibitions and musical events on a regular basis.

But Cologne can make an ideal base for exploring one of the most fascinating regions of Germany. Visitors may want to consider hiring a car, as the Rhine Valley offers some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in Europe, as the mighty Rhine cuts swathes through forested hillsides, topped with imposing teutonic fortresses.

Given its history and architectural significance, it is slightly unusual to find Cologne to be quite as exciting as it is. Cologners have an entirely justified faith in their city, lending it a self-assurance and friendliness that is found in few other European destinations.

In essence, the city's character is a rich combination of modern lifestyle with 2,000 years of historical and cultural heritage, allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent architecture, splendid museums, leading theatre productions and concerts, hedonistic dance clubs and, top it all off, some of the best food and beer in Germany.

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