Karneval - good experience, but overshadows Cologne's natural beauty
Like Munich during Oktoberfest, Cologne during Karneval doesn't let you appreciate the true beauty of the city. Cologne itself has some museums (like the chocolate museum!) we would have liked to visit, but as it was Karneval they were closed. Aside from parades and excessive drinking, there isn't a heck of a lot to keep you busy during this time when everything else is closed. However seeing everyone on the street in costume and going to the parades was really cool!
