The Rhine is part of Cologne like the carnival or the cathedral. The same applies to the seven iconic bridges that cross the city’s lifeline and separate the areas on the left bank of the Rhine from the “Schäl Sick”. We’ll tell you everything about the seven bridges of the cathedral city!
Mülheimer Brücke
The metal of the Mülheimer Brücke in the north of Cologne is all green. We have none other than the former chancellor and mayor of the city, Konrad Adenauer, to thank for this. He explicitly requested the color “chrome oxide green” and thus made a lasting statement. Today, the bridge, which connects Mülheim with Riehl, is not only accessible to motorists, but also to pedestrians and cyclists. Those who are out and about here can enjoy a unique city panorama. That’s why it’s especially popular with locals on New Year’s Eve, who watch the fireworks in Cologne from here and toast the New Year.
But the Mülheimer Brücke is also worth visiting during the rest of the year. The Rheinaue park on the left bank of the Rhine is very close by, where you can walk and relax to your heart’s content. A little more action awaits visitors at the lively Keupstraße or the Cologne Theatre!
Zoobrücke
As the name suggests, Cologne’s Zoobrücke is located not far from Cologne Zoo. Built in 1966, it is one of the newer Rhine bridges. Nevertheless, there is plenty to see in its immediate vicinity! In addition to the zoo, Cologne’s botanical garden Flora and the Rheinpark are only a few minutes’ walk away from here. Thanks to its numerous sculptures and buildings, the historically significant park is one of the city’s most beautiful. Some remnants of past national garden shows can also be found in the park.
If you prefer to take it easy, marvel at the Zoobrücke from the Cologne cable car. These special trips are especially recommended at night!
Hohenzollernbrücke
Hardly any tourist will not have the Hohenzollernbrücke on their to-do list: With thousands and thousands of love locks, the bridge has recently become a popular attraction in the city. If you want to do the same as other lovers, bring a lock, attach it to the bridge and throw the key into the depths of the Rhine. But it’s not only lovers who are drawn to the bridge! From here you also have an ideal view of Cologne’s landmark – the cathedral.
Incidentally, another popular photo opportunity is on the right bank of the Rhine. From the equestrian statue, you can see not only the majestic cathedral, but also the old town and the bridge!
Severinsbrücke
Cologne’s highest bridge stands out mainly due to its asymmetrical design and the pointed green pillars. This avant-garde masterpiece of post-war architecture is commonly known as Severinsbrücke. If you cross the bridge by train or on foot, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to views: on the right, the Rheinauhafen extends with the iconic crane houses, on the left, Cologne’s old town with the cathedral towering over everything. Fancy something sweet? Right next to the crane houses is the chocolate museum, where you can even book courses or tastings.
Rodenkirchener Brücke
Not so far from the hustle and bustle of the old town, but worlds apart: In search of relaxation, we are drawn to the Rodenkirchener Brücke between Rodenkirchen and Westhofen. Here, a small but beautiful sandy beach invites you to relax or have a picnic. Numerous small houseboats, such as the Alte Liebe, have been converted into cafés or kiosks and are ideal for a snack. You’re just not allowed to swim on the Rodenkirchen Riviera!
Want to do more exercise? You can cycle to Sürth and take the ferry across to Zündorfer Groov. After a stroll between the picturesque half-timbered houses or the boats in the island’s harbor, you can relax on one of the small Rhine beaches.
Deutzer Brücke
The Deutzer Brücke connects two worlds: on one side lies the historic old town of Cologne, on the other the modern district of Deutz. A suspension bridge from 1923 once stood here, but it collapsed as a result of the war. In its place, a steel box girder bridge was built that is, above all, practical. If you are on the old town side, you should stop for a photo at the iconic statues of the Hänneschen puppet theater or treat yourself to a potato pancake at the Rievkoochebud. On the Deutz side, vacationers stroll along the Rhine Boulevard and enjoy the view of the Cologne skyline.
Südbrücke
The Cologne Südbrücke is a true masterpiece of steel and stone. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and largely destroyed at the end of the Second World War. Today it has been restored to its former glory and is accessible to both trains and pedestrians. On the right bank of the Rhine are the idyllic Pollerwiesen, where you can relax to your heart’s content, while on the left bank is the modern Rheinauhafen with its harbor cranes and converted silos. A summer highlight: the Südbrücke wine festival has been taking place here for several years. Visitors can taste their way through the extensive wine list, accompanied by music and delicious street food!
