Cologne

4711 cologne shop

Have a look at the listings on Trip Advisor. Cologne has a lot to see, including many ancient churches and Roman antiquities. You may not want to completely write off museums without knowing what kind they are. All museums are not created equal.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187371-Activities-Cologne_North_Rhine_Westphalia.html

How long are you planning on being there? I enjoyed just walking along the riverfront and having lunch in the old town. I also took a short (1 hr) river cruise that was very interesting, views of the cathedral, old town, modern housing units, new bridge, etc.

Are you visiting on a Monday, when most museums are closed? You can still enjoy a few Roman antiquities through the museum windows. Rick's guidebook or the local tourist information office will suggest a self-guided walking tour of the old town. A bike tour or bike rental is another option, for instance through www.radstationkoeln.de.

This is my favorite spot. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV1djylOiXw

One of my 'musts' after the cathedral is Früh . So far it's true - "Coming to Früh means staying" ;-)

Also, there are lots of Romanesque churches...

And river cruises...

What would really help us, and you, is to have some idea of your interests...other than not liking/already knowing about the museums. There's lots to see and do there...but some parameters would be nice!