Germany

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Koln

After our stay in Prague, we made a bee-line towards the German city on the west-side: Koln. At first, we had no plans on visiting this city nor have we even heard of anything interesting in it (other than a lovely river cruise southwards to see beautiful castles). So it took me by surprise that a life-long friend had invited us to visit this city he currently lived in – he made special mention and focus to make sure we made it in time for Karneval. We had not heard of this event at all and we had thought it was just another holiday. Boy, were we wrong.

Koln will forever have a place in my heart as a fun, young and vibrant city. We visited during one of its main events of the year where many others travel all over just to experience it – I would recommend any traveller to do the same.

Koln Recommendations

Karneval – There’s no doubt about it. If partying suits you, Karneval in Koln is unmatched. The energy is high, the laughs are loud and the drinking is absurd. Read more here!

Kebapland – one of the local hot spots that we went to during our stay in Koln. On a Friday night, it was absolutely packed, the house was alit with activity and the line was long. We waiting about 20 minutes to get seated in a tiny little shop. I had one of the best kebap plates I have ever had. It is also very close to a metro station. I would highly recommend. However, just be careful! When we visited, they only took cash and we had to go grab some at a nearby ATM.

Kölner Dom – an iconic part of the city. This cathedral is one of the top attractions in the city and it is no wonder why. Its spires reach for the heaven and it is a baroque masterpiece. Enjoy its serene hall with marvelous stained glass art, ornamental decorations and an overall holy experience. On the flip side, you could also climb its towering spires – hundreds of steps towards the top of one of its towers. After overcoming such a dizzying challenge, you’re well-rewarded with a great 360degree view of the city. Marvel at its beauty and peaks while listening to the chimes of its gigantic clocks. Lose your mind at its mind numbing spiral staircase that never seem to end.

Rotkreuz-Shop – a great find for us as it was just in the neighborhood. Great service with great choices. We found an amazing jacket made from Czechoslovakia – a country that existed only up till 1992. The wares here are in great shape, are authentically antique and comes at a very reasonable price. If you’re looking for some thrift shopping while in Koln, this shop comes highly recommended by your friends at TravellersPursuits.

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Karneval

Karneval is an annual celebration of festivities and cultural tradition. In Koln, it is a big, massive, week long party. This year, we made it a priority to make it to Koln during this time – we even skipped out on Berlin, Vienna and cut some days shorter in other places just to fit it in. I can proudly say, it was all worth it.

We would high highly recommend visiting Koln during this period as it really livens up the whole city. Everyone gets into costumes and the merriment is very contagious. Drinking and partying is everywhere but not necessarily everything. The mood is livelier and happier and you can’t help but be in a great mood during Karneval in Koln.

It can get a rowdier, more crowded, noisier and messier – but it also gets happier and more energetic. If partying, day drinking and having fun is your vibe, go to Karneval.

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Munich

From the absolute chaos and noise of Karneval in Koln, to Munich’s quiet peace. This new city felt like the total opposite – the people were older, calmer, more orderly and less open. Walking through the city, its beauty is undeniable. From the grand buildings to the ornamental and elaborate architecture. We thoroughly enjoyed calming down and resting in Munich. Looking back, it felt like a city where one could live life peacefully and settle down.

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Munich Recommendations

Cafe im Hugendubel – This cafe is right in the middle of a very busy and touristic square. It is also right next to a public transport hub. It is also a big book store. With all that its got going on, I was pleasantly surprised as how good the cafe is. The coffee is great, service is nice and the atmosphere is something I can really enjoy. It felt pretty busy, but a pleasant busy. It was not obnoxious or overwhelming at all. This cafe is able to do something very significant – finding peace amidst all the noise and chaos.

 Kleine Eisbachwelle / River Surfing – I used to only see this spot online on short videos and clips. I was extremely excited to find out during our walk in the English Gardens that this was just nearby. It is very nice and cool to watch the surfers catch the wave and leisurely ride it. You could travel upstream to find a bigger wave with a bigger crowd. Nonetheless, it is an extremely unique place and I was very happy to finally see it. If you’re in the area, give this spot a visit.

The English Gardens – One of the highlights of the city. Get lost in the English Gardens and enjoy a true breath of fresh air. I would not even count this as a “garden” – this is a park with walking and bike trails. Visitors are spoiled for space with the massive footprint it takes up in the city. It is the biggest urban park in the whole world. We were surprised at how expansive it really is – we walked through half of it and it felt like a blissful eternity.

Libanon-Imbiss is an unassuming middle-eastern restaurant. The decor isn’t anything fancy, the prices are reasonable and the food is amazing. The service is great and the owners were really nice. It’s a bit out of the central area but it is worth the trip.

Marienplatz – This town square is the busiest area of the whole city. If this is what you’re seeking I would highly recommend Marienplatz. There are plenty of dining options, entertainment and shops to choose from. The beautiful towering architecture is also something to marvel at. It also helps that it is centrally located and is one of the main public transport stations.

Cafe Lehel – This cafe gives off an authentic high end vibe. The coffee is a bit expensive but you’re in Munich so don’t be too surprised. We found this place quite calming and a great place to sit down and have some great coffee. It is a charming cafe in a quiet but busy neighborhood.

Hofgarten– this garden is centrally located with plenty of beauty to go around. It is well kept and has ample of sunshine potential – so it is at its best on a sunny day. If you’re craving some nature without having to commit a whole expedition into the English Gardens, stop by Hofgarten and touch some grass instead. Jokes aside, this is a solid garden with plenty of seat options and a pleasant place to relax in the city.

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