Chocolate in Cologne

While my mom was visiting, I wanted to take her somewhere outside of Stuttgart, to a city we could both experience for the first time together. Cologne, Germany was a train ride away and could be done in a day. Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany, compared to Stuttgart at number six, and it has stuck out in my mind since Amsterdam in September.

We took an international train on our way to Amsterdam and I remember pulling into the Cologne station that evening and being blown away by the Cologne Cathedral. Not only is the stature overwhelming, but it is designed in a Gothic style and has an amazing story to go with it. Much of Germany, Stuttgart included, was hit hard by airstrikes in World War Two. Cologne was no exception, but the Cathedral somehow survived, even though it can be shown smoldering the day after a fire attack in this 1942 photo.

The cathedral is well over 600 years old and, like many churches in Europe is often undergoing construction. Unfortunately, the striking exterior had a small repair structure during our visit, but it didn't detract from the overall beauty.

Reason number two I was greatly looking forward to Cologne was their chocolate museum. European chocolate is absolutely spectacular. Gaining an inside look to how it is made as well as the history behind the cocoa bean was right up my alley. I am a die hard chocolate fanatic.

Chocolate fountain

The museum gave you a Lindt complimentary chocolate with your ticket and began with the history of the discovery of the cocoa bean. One of my favorite displays was of dishes and items used in the consumption of chocolate, particularly hot chocolate, throughout the years. There were beautifully preserved dishes and pots women would use when serving legit hot cocoa to visitors and family in the 1800's. There was a room demonstrating the process of making Lindt chocolates and the smell was heavenly. Our visit coincided with a few school tours and school children were waiting at a special counter where you could custom mix your own chocolate with add ins of any kind.

We ended with a hot chocolate in the cafe which, of course, came with another chocolate. I was so happy. We hit up the gift shop for a few treats and post cards of our own. The selection was good and the prices weren't too bad! A welcome surprise in the world of travel!

There were three separate Christmas markets in Cologne, near the museum, in the main square, and by the church. We enjoyed walking through and seeing all they had to offer, but Stuttgart's market was far superior.

Cologe was my first Currywurst experience. We ate at a very small, hole in the wall bar near the train station and the Currywurst was a great choice. It was served with a very wee fork and while I ordered mine extra spicy, it wasn't overwhelmingly so. Maybe that is a good thing... We were denied tap water and told we had to buy a bottle (yet another reason beer consumption is popular, it's cheaper than water!), but overall the bar made for a relaxing stop before heading home.