Cologne's cultural landscape has a lot to offer, with numerous museums and a lively musical and theatrical scene. The city's three largest museums – the Römisch-Germanisches Museum, Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & F.C., the Museum Ludwig – not only illuminate its historical roots, they also show high-calibre art from the Middle Ages to modern Pop Art. For entertainment there is the Opera House, the Philharmonie – and around 60 theatrical and cabaret venues.

Plunge into the world of chocolate, experiencing the history of this exquisite delicacy from the Aztecs' 'food of the gods' to the industrial product of today. The glass-walled chocolate factory lets you follow the entire production process. You can even design your own chocolate bar! The highlight and symbol of the museum is its three-metre-high chocolate fountain.

Every year in March, Cologne briefly becomes the European capital of literature. With just under 200 events, lit.COLOGNE has something for everybody: classic readings by national and international best-selling authors, and copious themed evenings and special events. Children and young people have their own, simultaneous event in lit.kid.COLOGNE.

Discover Cologne from an entirely new perspective. There are wonderful views from the water – of the cathedral, naturally, but also of the Rheinauhafen urban regeneration project with its 60-metre-high crane towers. As well as one-hour scenic trips, there are also all-day excursions and a variety of themed trips – all bookable.