Best Cologne Swimming Pools [Locals Pick]
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE BEST COLOGNE SWIMMING POOLS?
You’ve landed on the right article! I am from Cologne, and I really enjoy swimming.
When I was a child, there were many swimming pools in the city, each with its own special charm. But over time, many of these pools had to close because it cost too much for the city to keep them running.
Despite this, my love for swimming hasn’t changed, and I want to share the best swimming pools in Cologne. In this post, I’ll show you some great swimming pools that offer a fantastic experience for people of all ages and preferences.
Come with me as and discover the best swimming pools that still thrive today. So, grab your towel, put on your swimsuit, and let’s jump in!
*Cologne-to-Bonn contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.
BEFORE YOU GO….
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Best Cologne Swimming Pools
1. Claudius Therme
Address: Sachsenbergstraße 1, 50679 Cologne
The Claudius Therme is a fantastic thermal bath situated in the beautiful Rheinpark. It’s undoubtedly the best public swimming pool in Cologne.
The facility boasts both a swimming area and a relaxing sauna area, and you have the option to book each section separately.
Inside the swimming area, you’ll find a large indoor pool that flows into an inviting outdoor pool. There’s even a therapy pool where they offer regular physiotherapy treatments. Additionally, they have various whirlpools, a Kneipp pool, and a soothing sitting pool to complete you swimming experience.
What I love the most about this place is the warm and gentle thermal water, maintaining a comfortable temperature of 31-35 degrees Celsius. Another highlight is the absence of the strong chlorine smell that you often encounter at other swimming pools.
The only thing to keep in mind is that this luxurious experience comes at a slightly higher price, even if you only choose admission to the swimming area.
Don’t worry about parking; there’s ample space available right in front of the building.
Claudius Therme Opening Hours
| Monday – Sunday | 09.00 am – 12.00 pm |
Claudius Therme Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children (under 6 years old) |
| 2 Hour Rate | € 17,00 | € 15,00 |
| 4 Hour Rate | € 23,00 | € 21,00 |
| Day Rate | € 31,00 | € 29,00 |
2. Aqua Land
Address: Merianstraße 1, 50765 Cologne
Aqua Land, the fun-filled water park in Cologne, is located in the Chorweiler district. Just like the Claudius Therme, Aqua Land offers both a swimming area and a sauna park, which can be booked separately.
Families with children especially love Aqua Land for its attractions. In the shallow paddling pool, little ones can enjoy a climbing frame and age-appropriate slides. For those seeking a bit more action, the park boasts seven thrilling slides.
In the outdoor area, you can challenge yourself by swimming against the current in the flow channel. Additionally, there’s a therapy pool where therapeutic measures and water aerobics take place.
From October to March, a laser show takes place in the water park as darkness falls. The pool area is dimmed, and atmospheric mist fills the air. LED lasers then cast a display of colors across the water, accompanied by music.
For relaxation, you can unwind in the Oxygen Therapy Grotto with 36°C warm saline water.
When visiting Aqua Land, it’s essential to be aware that Chorweiler is not the safest neighborhood in Cologne. It’s advisable not to leave cars in poorly lit areas.
Aqua Land Opening Hours
| Monday – Thursday | 9.30 am – 11.00 pm |
| Friday | 9.30 am – 12.00 pm |
| Saturday | 9.00 am – 12.00 pm |
| Sunday | 9.00 am – 11.00 pm |
Aqua Land Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 7-15 years) | Children (3-6 years old) |
| 2 Hour Rate | € 19,90 | € 14,90 | € 6,90 |
| 4 Hour Rate | € 23,90 | € 16,90 | € 6,90 |
| Day Rate | € 6,90 | € 6,90 | € 6,90 |
3. AgrippaBad
Address: Kämmergasse 1, 50676 Cologne
Agrippabad is a swimming pool located right in the heart of Cologne city. It is conveniently situated near Neumarkt, making it easily accessible.
Just like the Claudius Therme and Aqua Land, Agrippabad offers both a swimming area and a sauna area, which can be booked separately. The swimming area is located on the ground floor, while the sauna area can be found on the second floor. Additionally, on the first floor, there’s a small fitness studio called AgrippaFit.
In Agrippabad, you can look forward to a 25-meter sports pool, a long water slide, a diving platform with a 10-meter tower, and a kids’ paddling pool. The swimming pool also has an outdoor area for more water fun. Moreover, they offer a wide range of water courses for both beginners and advanced swimmers.
Agrippabad is a classic public swimming pool, attracting both serious swimmers and leisure swimmers alike. So whether you are into sports swimming or just looking to relax, Agrippabad has something for everyone.
Agrippabad Opening Hours
| Monday – Friday | 06:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09:00 am – 09:00 pm |
Agrippabad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| 2.5-hour Rate | € 6,80 | € 4,00 | € 1,00 |
| Day Rate | € 9,50 | € 5,70 | € 1,50 |
4. StadionBad
Address: Olympiaweg 20, 50933 Cologne
Located in the heart of Sportpark Müngersdorf, where the Cologne football club also hosts its home matches, you can find Stadionbad. As a child, I used to frequent this place quite often.
For many years, the 50-meter outdoor pool was mostly occupied by sports swimmers doing their laps. However, the indoor pool now provides year-round swimming pleasure for visitors.
Regardless of the weather, sports enthusiasts can enjoy swimming or stay in shape through various classes like Aquatic-Fitness and Water Aerobics.
Stadionbad offers a wonderful opportunity to combine leisure and fitness activities in a vibrant sports environment.
StadionBad Opening Hours
| Monday – Friday | 06:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09:00 am – 09:00 pm |
StadionBad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,80 | € 4,10 | € 0,50 |
| Day Rate Winter | € 4,90 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
4. ZollstockBad
Address: Raderthalgürtel 8-10, 50968 Cologne
The Zollstockbad is located in my neighborhood and offers both an indoor and outdoor area.
Inside, the Zollstockbad features a classic swimming pool suitable for both serious swimmers and leisurely bathers.
The outdoor area has been recently redesigned, providing a fresh and inviting space. However, it’s important to note that the opening hours for the outdoor area differ from those of the indoor pool. If you plan to visit the Zollstockbad during the summer, make sure to check the opening hours on their website beforehand. The outdoor area often opens later in the day, typically not before 10:00 AM.
ZollstockBad Opening Hours
| Monday | 04.00 pm – 09.30 pm |
| Tuesday | 09.00 am – 05.00 pm |
| Wednesday & Friday | 06.30 am – 09.30 pm |
| Thursday | closed |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09.00 am – 05.00 pm |
ZollstockBad Admission Fee
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,80 | € 4,10 | € 0,50 |
| Day Rate Winter | € 5,40 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
5. LentPark
Address: Lentstraße 30, 50668 Cologne
The Lentpark swimming facility is nestled within the Lentpark complex, where you can also find an ice rink on the upper level, with ice skaters gliding gracefully. Down below, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim.
The swimming pool is heated using the warmth generated from cooling the ice rink, making it an eco-friendly choice.
I only have personally experienced the Lentpark on Saturday evenings so far when families and serious swimmers have left, and the pool lanes are noticeably empty. It’s an enjoyable time to swim in a peaceful atmosphere.
Aside from the indoor area, during the summer, the LentPark swimming facility opens its outdoor area, providing a natural bathing pond. This offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the water in a more environmentally friendly and natural setting.
LentPark Opening Hours
| Monday | 04.00 pm – 09.30 pm |
| Tuesday | 09.00 am – 05.00 pm |
| Wednesday & Friday | 06.30 am – 09.30 pm |
| Thursday | closed |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09.00 am – 05.00 pm |
LentPark Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,80 | € 4,10 | € 0,50 |
| Day Rate Winter | € 4,90 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
6. OssendorfBad
Address: Äußere Kanalstraße 191, 50827 Cologne
Ossendorfbad is the perfect place for relaxation and staying fit.
At Ossendorfbad, there are two main areas to enjoy. The bright and airy swimming hall invites you to have a refreshing swim at your own pace. You can swim laps, do water aerobics, or have fun with your kids in the paddling pool. It’s a great spot for both sports lovers and families who want to have a splashing good time.
At Ossendorfbad you can book the swimming area and the sauna area separately. If you want to unwind and feel rejuvenated, the sauna area is just right for you. It’s a peaceful place to relax and recharge after a busy day.
Fitness enthusiasts will be thrilled to know about RochusFit, a small fitness studio inside Ossendorfbad. Here, you’ll find various exercise equipment and programs to keep you motivated and in shape. Whether you prefer cardio exercises or strength training, RochusFit has something for you.
And don’t worry about getting hungry! Ossendorfbad has you covered with its delicious food options. You can grab a cup of coffee to or have a quick snack to boost your energy.
Ossendorfbad Opening Hours
| Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday | 06.30 am – 08.00 pm |
| Tuesday | 06.30 am – 08.00 am |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09.00 am – 21.00 pm |
Ossendorfbad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,80 | € 4,10 | € 0,50 |
| Day Rate Winter | € 5,40 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
7. Chorweilerbad
Address: Liller Strasse, 50765 Cologne
Chorweilerbad offers year-round swimming enjoyment for everyone. Whether you’re a sports swimmer, a family with children, or someone with a disability, you’ll find joy in this pool.
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the facilities at Chorweilerbad, where they can enjoy their swimming sessions to the fullest. Families with kids will also have a great time, as the pool provides a fun environment for little ones to splash around.
One of the remarkable features of Chorweilerbad is its accessibility. The pool is equipped to accommodate people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the water and have a fantastic experience.
Chorweilerbad Opening Hours
| Monday | 06.30 am – 08.00 am, 04.00 pm – 09.30 pm |
| Tuesday, Wednesday | 06.30 am – 09.30 pm |
| Thursday | closed |
| Friday | 06.30 am – 08.00 am |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09.00 am – 05.30 pm |
Chorweilerbad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate | € 4,90 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
8. Höhenbergbad
Address: Schwarzburger Str. 4, 51103 Cologne
Höhenbergbad offers swimming enjoyment for the whole family, providing a perfect destination for aquatic fun. With its 25-meter sports pool and a children’s paddling pool, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
During the outdoor swimming season, the 25-meter pool is available with a dependable water temperature of at least 21 degrees Celsius, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing swim even on cooler days.
One of the unique attractions of Höhenbergbad is the large dune landscape that casts its shadow over the pool area, creating a maritime flair and adding to the overall charm of the place.
A limited number of free parking spaces are available.
Höhenbergbad Opening Hours
| Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday | 06.30 am – 09.30 pm |
| Wedneysday | closed |
| Saturday & Sunday | 09.00 am – 08.00 pm |
Höhenbergbad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,80 | € 4,10 | € 0,50 |
| Day Rate Winter | € 5,40 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
10. Wahnbad
Address: Albert-Schweitzer-Strasse 8, 51147 Cologne
Wahnbad is the perfect place for those looking to swim a few laps or earn a swimming badge. It caters to both recreational swimmers and those seeking to achieve swimming milestones.
At Wahnbad, you’ll find a 25-meter sports pool, a teaching pool, and a diving platform with 1-meter and 3-meter boards.
Wahnbad Opening Hours
| Monday – Thursday | closed |
| Friday | 06.30 am – 08.30 pm |
| Saturday & Sunday | 08.00 am – 04.00 pm |
Wahnbad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate | € 4,90 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
11. Zündorfbad
Address: Trankgasse 10A, 51143 Cologne
Fun for the whole family awaits you on the right side of the Rhine River at Zündorfbad. Located directly on the leisure island “Groov,” this aquatic haven offers a delightful experience for all.
Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to the outdoor area during the open-air swimming season, where refreshing shade-providing trees and a 25-meter pool create a serene atmosphere.
For year-round swimming enjoyment, Zündorfbad also offers an indoor pool, ensuring that visitors can have a splash no matter the season. Whether you prefer the open air or the comfort of the indoors, Zündorfbad has something to suit your preferences.
Zündorfbad Opening Hours
| Monday & Thursday | 10.00 am – 09.30 pm |
| Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday | 06.30 am – 09.30 pm |
| Saturday & Sunday | 10.00 am – 09.00 pm |
Zündorfbad Admission Fees
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,80 | € 4,10 | € 0,50 |
| Day Rate Winter | € 5,40 | € 3,80 | € 0,50 |
Cologne Outdoor Swimming Pool
Most of the public swimming pools in Cologne have an outdoor area, making them even more appealing to visitors. This feature can be found in well-known establishments such as the Claudius Therme, Aqualand, Agrippabad, Zollstockbad, Stadionbad, Lentpark, Ossendorfbad, Höhenbergbad and Zündorfbad.
These outdoor spaces are often complemented by sunbathing lawns, providing a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The combination of indoor and outdoor facilities makes these swimming pools popular choices for locals and tourists alike.
Naturfreibad Vingst (natural outdoor swimming pool)
Address: Vingster Ring, 51107 Cologne
The Naturfreibad Vingst, located on the eastern outskirts of Cologne, offers an idyllic retreat for bathers during the summer months. Situated by a quarry lake, it boasts excellent water quality, a fine sandy beach, and diverse wild plant life.
You can relax on sunbathing lawns and unwind in scattered hammocks. Families can enjoy the large adventure playground for kids. When summer temperatures rise, it becomes the perfect destination for an authentic open-air bathing experience.
Naturfreibad Vingst Admission Fee
| Admission Fees | Adults | Children/Adolescents (under 18 years) | Children (under 6 years old) |
| Day Rate Summer | € 5,00 | € 3,90 | € 0,50 |
Best Cologne Swimming Pools – Final Thoughts
In Cologne, there is an abundance of swimming pools that cater to various preferences. Many of these pools offer both indoor and outdoor swimming options, providing a great experience throughout the year. Additionally, some facilities go the extra mile by including saunas, which can be booked separately for those seeking relaxation and wellness.
The entrance fees for these swimming pools vary from place to place. Public swimming pools typically offer affordable rates, ranging from 4 to 6 euros for adults. On the other hand, private swimming pools may have higher entrance fees due to their additional amenities and services.
Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing dip indoors or wish to soak up the sun in an outdoor pool, Cologne’s swimming pool scene has something to suit every swimmer’s desires. With a wide range of choices and different price points, everyone can enjoy a wonderful swimming experience in Cologne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are swimming pools free in Germany?
Swimming pools in Germany are not typically free. Most swimming pools, whether public or private, charge an admission fee for entry. The fees may vary depending on factors such as the location, facilities offered, and the time of day you visit.
Public swimming pools, which are run by municipalities, usually have an entry fee that covers the cost of maintenance, lifeguard services, and other operational expenses. Private swimming pools, often found in hotels, fitness centers, or leisure complexes, also require payment for access.
It’s worth noting that some cities or regions may offer certain discounts or special rates for children, students, seniors, or regular visitors. Additionally, some public swimming pools may have specific days or hours with reduced or even free entry, but this varies from one place to another.
How much does swimming pool cost in Germany ?
The cost of using a swimming pool in Germany can vary depending on several factors, including the type of pool, location, and the specific facilities and services offered. Here are some common types of swimming pools and their approximate costs in Germany:
- Public Swimming Pools: The entry fee for public swimming pools can range from around 3 to 7 euros per person, depending on the pool’s size, location, and amenities. Some pools may offer discounts for children, students, seniors, or families.
- Private Swimming Pools: Private swimming pools are typically owned by hotels, fitness centers, or leisure complexes. The cost of using these pools can vary widely and may be included in the price of a hotel stay or fitness center membership. Standalone access to private pools may have higher fees.
- Spa and Wellness Centers: Some spa and wellness centers in Germany offer swimming pool access as part of their services. The cost of using these pools may be included in the overall spa package or may require a separate fee.
- Natural Swimming Spots: Access to natural swimming spots, such as lakes or rivers, is often free of charge or may involve minimal fees for parking or other facilities nearby.
It’s essential to check with the specific swimming pool or facility you plan to visit to get accurate pricing information.
Do people have swimming pools in Germany?
While some people in Germany do have swimming pools, it is not very common compared to other countries.Owning a private swimming pool in Germany is more of a luxury and is typically found in higher-income households or larger properties in suburban or rural areas.
Public swimming pools, on the other hand, are more widespread and are commonly found in cities and towns throughout the country. These public pools are operated by local governments or municipalities and provide recreational spaces for people to swim, relax, and enjoy water-based activities.
Many Germans also make use of natural swimming spots, such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, especially during the warmer months. Germany has numerous natural bodies of water, and many of them are well-maintained and suitable for swimming.
Are there bath houses in Germany?
Yes, there are bathhouses in Germany, and they are known as “Badehaus” or “Thermen.” These bathhouses are facilities that offer a variety of wellness and spa services, providing a space for relaxation, rejuvenation, and therapeutic treatments.
Bathhouses in Germany often feature saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and pools with different temperature zones. Visitors can enjoy heat therapies in saunas and steam rooms, followed by refreshing dips in pools or cold water plunges, known as “Kneipp baths.” Many bathhouses also offer various spa treatments, such as massages, facials, and body scrubs, aimed at promoting relaxation and well-being.
Can you go swimming in Germany?
Yes, you can go swimming in Germany. Germany offers various opportunities for swimming, including public swimming pools, natural lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
Public swimming pools are commonly found in cities and towns throughout the country. They are well-maintained and provide a safe and enjoyable environment for people to swim and engage in water-based activities.
Germany is also known for its numerous natural swimming spots, especially during the warmer months. Many lakes and rivers are suitable for swimming, and they often have designated areas or beaches for swimmers. The coastal areas along the North Sea and Baltic Sea also offer opportunities for swimming, although the water can be colder than in inland lakes during certain times of the year.
Is it legal to swim in Germany?
Yes, swimming is legal in Germany, and there are many opportunities for swimming in various water bodies, including public swimming pools, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Swimming is a popular recreational activity in the country, and there are safety measures in place to ensure the well-being of swimmers.
Public swimming pools are well-regulated and maintained by local authorities to ensure a safe environment for visitors. Lifeguards are often present at public pools to oversee swimmers and provide assistance if needed.
Swimming in natural bodies of water, such as lakes and rivers, is also allowed and widely enjoyed, especially during the summer months. However, it’s essential to be aware of safety guidelines and potential risks when swimming in open water, as conditions can change, and some areas may have strong currents or hidden hazards.
Overall, swimming is a legal and enjoyable activity in Germany, with numerous opportunities for people to swim and cool off during hot weather. As with any water-based activity, it’s crucial to exercise caution, follow safety guidelines, and be aware of any specific rules or regulations at the swimming location.
What is the German word for swimming?
The German word for swimming is “Schwimmen.”
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