Aachen is a city near the border with Belgium and the Netherlands, and is known for its spa and its role as the coronation site of the Holy Roman Emperors. It is located about 65 km southwest of Cologne.
Bremen is a city and a state in northern Germany, and is known for its maritime history, its role in the Hanseatic League, and its cultural landmarks such as the town hall and the statue of the Bremen Town Musicians. It is located about 280 km north of Cologne.
Heidelberg is a city in the state of Baden-Württemberg, and is known for its picturesque old town, its castle, and its university, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Germany. It is located about 190 km south of Cologne.
Lübeck is a city in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, and is known for its Gothic architecture, its role as the former capital of the Hanseatic League, and its literary heritage, as the birthplace of Thomas Mann and Günter Grass. It is located about 390 km north of Cologne.
Nuremberg is a city in the state of Bavaria, and is known for its medieval history, its role in the Nazi era and the Nuremberg trials, and its cultural traditions such as the Christmas market and the gingerbread. It is located about 370 km southeast of Cologne.