One fine Saturday, I took a train from Maastricht to Cologne (Köln) to spend the day with a few friends from the Tafelstraat. The high-speed ride via Aachen was smooth and easy (about 1.5 to 2 hours each way), and the round-trip fare was €17.50.
Right upon arriving at the Köln station, I was immediately awed by the city's unofficial landmark: the majestic Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), towering over the entire city center. Officially named Hohe Domkirche Sankt Petrus (High Cathedral Church of Saint Peter), construction began in 1248 and wasn’t completed until 1880, spanning over 600 years. Upon completion, it was the tallest building in the world. I was struck by its sheer scale and vertical reach, as if the spires were reaching to touch the heavens. A pamphlet and access to the cathedral's soaring tower each cost €1.
Later, I stopped by the Lindt Schokoladen Museum along the River Rhine. Admission was €3.50, and I couldn't resist picking up a few treats (chocolates and marzipan) for €8.65. Cologne is also famously home to 4711 Eau de Cologne and the refreshing local Kölsch beer.
With the day winding down, I caught the train back to Maastricht - grateful for the quick escape and the chance to explore Cologne’s layered history, from Roman ruins to soaring cathedrals.
Above left: Cologne train station
Above: Aerial view of Köln from the Kölner Dom
Above left: The River Rhine
Above left: Köln's Coat of Arms - The three crowns symbolize the three wise kings and the eleven tears represent the martyred entourage of Cologne's patron Saint Ursula
Above right: “Blessed are the pure in heart” (Beatitudes, Matthew 5:8)
Above left: "Blessed are the peacemakers." (Beatitudes, Matthew 5:9)
Above right: "Blessed are those who suffer persecution for the sake of justice." (Beatitudes, Matthew 5:10)
Above: Remnants of a Roman past juxtaposed with post-WW2 buildings that were rebuilt from site
Above right: Bratwurst from Köln Hauptbahnhof: €2
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