Let’s go on a German travel fest with a trio of cities adventures running through Cologne, Munich and Rhineland. On our adventures, we shall check out the history, sights, gastronomically distinctive iconic pork knuckles and a cruise along the Rhineland river.
Cathedral of Cologne
Moreover, the city of Cologne itself is home to several historical-looking streets. However, as most of the city was destroyed by allied aerial bombings during the World War 2. Hence, almost all the buildings here are relatively new, albeit rebuilt with an old feel.
Just like other European cities like Copenhagen in Denamrk, the city center is buzzing, easy to navigate and is home to malls and green spaces. Do try out German hotdogs if you have a chance, especially those served by street vendors.
The Cathedral of Cologne (Kölner Dom) situated in the heart of Cologne is a Gothic masterpiece worth visiting. The UNESCO World Heritage site (since 1996) is the fourth tallest cathedral globally. The cathedral interior walls are decorated with an array of modern mosaic windows.
Also, you can find interior treasures such as the oldest surviving crucifix Cross (Gero cross) of the Archbishop of Cologne. Here, you can find a jewel studded golden sarcophagus called the shrine of the Three Holy Kings, and a historical wooden sculpture from the 13th century called the Mailänder Madonna.
Interestingly, the cathedral and its interior treasures survived the World War 2 bombings and are one of Germany’s architectural monuments. Entry to the Cathedral is free. Also, the cathedral is home to one of the tallest church spires ever built. You can even see it from across the city and the river Rhine.
City of Munich
Traveling to the capital and most populous city of Bavaria is the industrial city of Munich. It is the third-largest city in German with an economy based largely on high tech industries. This include automobiles by BMW and Volkswagen’s MAN, as well as German powerhouse Siemens AG to name afew.
Also, you can find the BMW Headquarters with its iconic 4-piston shaped corporate building. There is also the BMW museum residing beside it which you can visit as a day trip. It houses a showcase of several current BMW models as well as an educational sector.
Grab a pork knuckle and beer at Hofbrauhaus tavern
Furthermore, a gastronomical highlight to check out dating back to the 16th century here is the Hofbräuhaus Tavern. The 3-floor beer hall is situated at the heart of Munich in an old town and plaza in the cradle of the Bavarian city.
Furthermore, the staple food dishes here at Hofbräuhaus are their pork knuckles as well as their pretzels. The pork knuckles are a particular favourite. You can see them roasting outside the store on their unique rotating ovens.
Here, the oily fat from one pork knuckle drips onto the one below as they are rotated in a vertical carousel. Also , as unhealthy as it is tasty, it is super crispy on the outside, yet soft and juicy within. It is the best pork knuckles you can have it at the source in Germany.
Moreover, a tea lady makes her rounds around the establishment grounds, selling baskets of cookies and pretzels. Also the restaurant has a live band playing upbeat music. It is a hit hang out place for not just tourists but locals looking to have a good time too.
In addition, being a beer tavern, beer is promptly served upon ordering. Your beers are served by cheery beer ladies who effortlessly whisk 3-5 mugs of beer per arm with ease. Definitely a place to check out in Munich and grab a lunch on your way too.
Cruising through Rhineland
Located in western Germany, one of the cool ways to see the Rhineland is to do a river cruise through the Rhine itself. Here, you pass through several points of interests. You sail through several small towns and villages which embraces the land on the banks of the Rhine (Rhineland) in this part of Central Europe.
Also, you can find castles and fortifications perched on the various hill tops and mountain ridges which runs along the river side. There are several tour operators which runs ferry rides along some of the more scenic parts of the River Rhine which you can use to catch the views. Interestingly, some of these ferries do serve meals on-board with large dining areas too.
Additionally, you can explore these various cities through driving around Germany itself by road. Cologne, Munich and Rhineland are well connected to other German cities through their famous highway autobahns. Also, there are no speed limits on the “unregulated portions” of the freeway, with speed limits only nearing towns, tunnels and construction sites along the highway.
All in all, that’s all for my short little tour of Cologne, Munich and Rhineland. Germany is a country I particularly enjoy visiting, known for their industrial prowess and engineering powerhouse, as well as one with much culture and beautiful scenery.
