Weekender: Cologne, Germany

Set on the River Rhine, Cologne is packed with beer halls, bars and clubs, making it an attractive destination for party-goers. But there is plenty to tickle your cultural side too. Cologne has an abundance of churches and museums and offers a mix of Roman, medieval and modern architecture.

Headline attraction
Cologne's giant Gothic cathedral (Kölner Dom) with its twin towers rules the city's skyline. Inside you'll find the Shrine of the Three Magi, a tomb said to hold one of the biblical three kings. Take a walk around the great building before checking it out inside. Make sure you climb up the bell tower and take in the panoramic views across the city.

Best of the rest
Take a stroll along the banks of the Rhine to see modern Cologne, including Köln Arena and the Köln Triangle. Head over the Hohenzollernbrücke for great view of Cologne's bridges, the cathedral and Old Town.

Museum time
There's something for everyone when it comes to Cologne's museums, from sport to art and even an old Gestapo prison. If you only have time for one, though make it the Schokoladen museum, dedicated entirely to the sweet stuff. While it's no Willy Wonka factory, you can learn about growing cocoa, watch the chocolate production line in action, and sample a wafer that has been covered in chocolate fresh from the chocolate fountain. Sweet.

Try the local tipple
You can't pass up drinking beer in Germany, it's among the world's best. Cologne is home to 20 breweries so there's plenty of local stuff to get into, such as Kölsch, which is served in distinctive thin cylindrical glasses. Head to a beer hall, where staff will deliver you a new beer without you having to ask. The beer halls are also a great way of meeting locals as the bench seating and shared tables make a visit a social event.

Chow down
German food is hearty, and after eating it for a few days you'll certainly feel heavier. Think bratwurst sausages, stuffed pork belly, loads of potatoes, sauerkraut and bread. But if you tire from traditional fare, you'll also find cuisine from all over the world in the city.

Retail therapy
Cologne is fairly compact and easy to walk around. It has a great selection of shops, from boutiques to high street stores. If you're looking for unusual Christmas presents, time your visit with the festival season when the city hosts a fantastic Christmas market.

Need to know

When to go: Time your visit with the city's 'fifth season', Cologne Carnival (November 11 - February 16, 2010). Go before Christmas for the markets.

Getting there: Search for cheap flights

Currency: Euro - Check out our Currency Converter for the latest rates

Language: German

Getting around: Seeing the sights on foot is the best way to explore the city

Accommodation: Cologne hotel deals