Begin at Cologne's defining landmark, the twin-spired Gothic cathedral that survived two world wars largely intact. Inside, discover the Shrine of the Three Kings, which has housed the alleged relics of the Magi since 1164.

Walk to the iconic railway bridge built between 1907 and 1911, composed of three truss arch spans crossing the Rhine. The bridge offers an open view of the river and the cathedral from a different angle.

Move through the historic old town's narrow alleyways lined with traditional buildings and arrive at two of Cologne's most recognizable central squares. Alter Markt remains a hub of local life and carnival culture.

Explore three of Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches, each representing a different chapter of the city's ecclesiastical history. Saint Gereon's is considered the oldest church in Cologne, built over a Roman-era tomb.

Trace Cologne's origins as a Roman provincial capital through the remains of the Imperial Governor's residence and one of Germany's foremost Roman antiquities museums. The museum sits directly above the ruins of a third-century Roman villa.

Finish near the restored old harbor district, where historic warehouses sit alongside modern architecture. The route also passes the birthplace of the original eau de cologne and one of Germany's premier fine art museums.