Sunny old town of Cologne! ☀️

Exploring Cologne’s Old Town & the Magnificent Cathedral! 🌍✨ On a bright, sunny day, I wandered through the charming streets of Cologne’s Old Town (Kölner Altstadt)—a delightful mix of historic architecture, cozy beer halls, and riverside charm. But the true highlight? The Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a jaw-dropping masterpiece of Gothic architecture! 😍 Awe-Inspiring Grandeur ⛪🔥 Stepping inside the cathedral, I was instantly overwhelmed by its sheer scale and intricate details. The soaring vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows filtering golden light, and the quiet, reverent atmosphere made it feel almost otherworldly. It’s no wonder this is one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in the world—and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996! Fun fact: The cathedral took over 600 years to complete (construction started in 1248 and only finished in 1880!). Climbing the 533 steps to the top of the south tower rewards you with panoramic views of the Rhine River and the city—totally worth the workout! 💪 A City Steeped in History & Culture 🏰🍻 Beyond the cathedral, Cologne’s Old Town is a treasure trove of history. The Romanesque churches, like Great St. Martin Church, and the Hohenzollern Bridge (covered in love locks!) add to the city’s medieval-meets-modern vibe. And of course, no visit is complete without trying Kölsch beer in one of the traditional breweries—cheers to that! 🍺 Why Every Traveler (and Student!) Should Visit 🌎📚 As a global student traveler, I love how Cologne blends history, culture, and student-friendly vibes. The city is super walkable, packed with museums (like the Ludwig Museum for modern art lovers), and has a lively international community. Plus, its central location in Europe makes it a perfect stop for anyone backpacking or studying abroad! #WorldHeritageCity #TravelTheWorld #StudyAbroadAdventures #GothicArchitecture #EuroTrip