Our final day took us to Cologne (Köln), where the majestic Cologne Cathedral towers over the city — its spires stretching 157 meters into the sky. Even from outside, the Gothic architecture was breathtaking, especially against the winter mist. Inside, the cathedral houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, believed to contain relics of the Magi.

Just steps away, the Cologne Christmas Market sparkled beneath the cathedral, with stalls selling spiced wine, hand-carved ornaments, and warm potato pancakes.

We ended our trip with a tour of the Lindt Chocolate Museum, located right on the Rhine. Founded in 1993 in collaboration with the famous Swiss chocolatier, the museum walks visitors through the history of cocoa — from ancient Mayan rituals to modern chocolate-making. Watching the factory team pour and shape pralines was mesmerizing, and the best part, of course, was sampling fresh chocolate from the fountain.

As the sun set, we boarded our train home — full of sugar, laughter, and a new appreciation for Germany’s winter charm. It was the perfect training Christmas trip, filled with new experiences, festive lights, and the sweet rhythm of travel by rail.