25 Things to Do in Cologne in Spring

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The city of Cologne is extra special in the springtime. 

There is lots to see and do. From famous museums and galleries to cozy cafes and historic places, there is something for everybody.

To help you have a great time, here are 25 things to do in Cologne in spring.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW….

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BEST THINGS TO DO IN COLOGNE IN SPRING

1. Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a beautiful church in the city center of Cologne. With two tall spires reaching 157 meters high, it’s easy to spot from all around the city.

Over 600 years of work went into building the cathedral, from the 1200s to the 1800s. Today, people from all over the world come to see this amazing building.

The interior of the cathedral is magnificent with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and valuable art pieces. Some highlights include the 10th-century Gero-Kreuz crucifix and the black marble high altar. Also the gilded shrine of the Three Kings can be seen here. .

To enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, visitors can climb to the top of one of the towers.

The cathedral was damaged during World War II but has since been restored to its former glory. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction, attracting people who are interested in history, architecture, or just want to take in the beautiful views of Cologne.

Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Cologne

2. Hop-on-Hop Off Bus

The Hop-On Hop-Off tour in Cologne is a fun and convenient way to explore the city.

The tour starts at Burgmauer and goes all the way to Friesenplatz, with many stops along the way.

You can hop on and off the bus whenever you want to check out a new attraction or grab a bite to eat.

When the weather is nice, you’ll be riding in an open-air double-decker bus, what makes the tour one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

3. Schildergasse & Hohe Straße

If you’re planning to visit Cologne, two of the best places to shop are Hohe Straße and Schildergasse. 

Hohe Straße is a long street for walking only, with stores, restaurants, and cafes.

It’s one of the oldest shopping areas in the city and has both expensive fashion shops and stores that are more budget-friendly. 

Schildergasse is even older, dating back to ancient Roman times.

It is considered to be one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe. You’ll find all types of shops here, from big stores to small shops that sell special gifts, clothing, and souvenirs.

Whether you want to enjoy the energy of the city or do some window shopping, these two streets are a must-visit.

4. Visit Cologne’s Old Town (Altstadt)

If you’re interested in history, you have to visit Cologne’s Old Town.

This neighborhood is located in the center of the city and is famous for its old streets with colorful buildings. There are also many great places to grab a drink or something to eat. Several breweries, pubs, and restaurants serving Kölsch beer and Halver Hahn sandwiches can be found here.

The Old Town has more to offer than just food and drinks. It’s also full of important cultural and historical places to see.

You must see the huge Cologne Cathedral, the old-style Romanesque church Great St. Martin, and the tower of the historic City Hall.

And don’t forget the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen on Am Hof-Street! This fountain was built in 1899 and has the city’s beloved mythical creatures, the Heinzelmännchen.

Whether you’re into history, culture, or just love exploring new places, visiting the Old Town in Cologne is a must-do. Don’t miss it!

5. Time Ride

Step back in time with TimeRide for an exciting journey through history.

During your 45-minute stay, you will go on a special trip through history. At the side of hatter Tessa and streetcar driver Pitter, you will be in the middle of Cologne in the 1920s.

Your journey throught history starts at the cinema, where you will take a seat together with the fine society. An entertaining short film in the style of the 1920s will show you the historical development of Cologne during this time.

Your second stop will be at the hatter’s store where Tessa – the charming hatter – will tell you all you need to know about the world of glamorous fashion of the 1920.

On your following virtual ride of Cologne’s first electric streetcar, you experience the beauty of the city before its destruction in World War II.

With your VR goggles, you will enjoy a 360° panoramic view and discover iconic landmarks of old Cologne, many of which have disappeared or are barely recognizable today.

Whether you are interested in history or just looking for an uncommon place to go, traveling through time with time ride is one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

Address: Alter Markt 36-42, 50667 Cologne

6. Bike Tour

Take a guided bike tour along the Rhine to the landmarks of Cologne.

After setting up on a provided bicycle, you can visit the sights, including the Cologne Cathedral.

Set a relaxed pace and enjoy numerous photo stops. With a small group, you also have the opportunity to interact with your guide and ask questions.

For those who like biking a guided bike tour is one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

7. Rheinauhafen

Rheinauhafen is a neighborhood in Cologne located on the banks of the Rhine River.

It was once an old harbor, but has now been transformed into a modern, mixed-use development with residential, commercial, and leisure spaces.

The area features unique architecture, including the famous “kranhäuser” (crane houses), which are old crane buildings that have been transformed into residential buildings. These crane houses blend old and new styles, creating a visually appealing and diverse urban environment.

There are also parks and promenades for people to enjoy, making Rheinauhafen a great place to live, work, and relax.

Since Rheinauhafen is offering beautiful views of the river and the city, it is absolutely worth visiting and therefore among the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

Address: Rheinauhafen, 50678 Cologne

8. Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a sweet and delicious experience for people of all ages. You can learn about the history and process of making chocolate, from bean to bar.

The highlight of the museum is the chocolate fountain, where you can dip biscuits into melted chocolate for a truly indulgent experience.

The museum also has a shop where visitors can purchase different types of chocolate to take home with them.

After exploring the museum, you can relax in the cafe, where you can enjoy a variety of chocolate treats and drinks, including hot chocolate.

Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just curious about the world of chocolate, the Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a must-visit destination.

Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Cologne

9. Hohenzollern Bridge

The Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne is famous for its locks. Couples from all over the world come to the bridge to attach a lock to it as a symbol of their love and commitment. 

The locks are placed on the railings of the bridge and come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some locks are engraved with names, dates, or special messages.

The locks on the Hohenzollern Bridge have become a symbol of love and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors to Cologne can see the locks, take pictures, and even add their own lock to the bridge.

Whether you’re a romantic couple or just interested in the tradition, the love locks on the Hohenzollern Bridge are definitely worth a visit.

So next time you’re in Cologne, make sure to stop by the bridge and see these colorful symbols of love for yourself!

10. Rhine Boulevard

The Rhine Boulevard is a path along the Rhine River that gives a beautiful view of the city and the river. It’s famous for its stunning view of the Cologne Cathedral, which is a famous landmark in the city.

There are many places to eat, drink, and socialize along the Boulevard, so it’s always lively and fun. There are also many parks and green spaces to enjoy the fresh air and relax.

People love to walk, jog, bike, and have picnics along the Boulevard. You can also take a boat tour to see the views or sit and watch the world go by.

Whether you want a peaceful break from the city or a fun night out, the Rhein Boulevard has everything you need.

Address: Hermann-Pünder-Straße 2, 50679 Cologne

11. Tanzbrunnen

Tanzbrunnen is a popular entertainment venue located in Cologne.

It is a spacious outdoor area surrounded by lush green trees and beautiful views of the Rhine River. The venue is known for hosting a variety of events, including live concerts, festivals, and cultural events.

One of the most popular attractions at Tanzbrunnen is the open-air dance floor, where visitors can dance the night away to live music.

In addition to the dance floor, the venue also features a large stage, where well-known artists perform throughout the year.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drinks at the venue, including traditional German cuisine, refreshing drinks, and sweet treats.

Whether you’re in the mood for a wild night out or a more relaxed evening, Tanzbrunnen has something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a fun and lively entertainment venue in Cologne, don’t miss out on visiting Tanzbrunnen.

Address: Rheinparkweg 1, 50679 Cologne

12. Claudius Therme

Discover a source of rest and relaxation. 

Situated in the heart of Cologne’s Rheinpark you will find one of Europe’s most beautiful thermal baths. 

Claudius Therme has lots of things to help you relax and feel refreshed, like pools, saunas, steam rooms, and quiet areas. There’s even a special pool filled with salt from the Dead Sea, where you can float and feel weightless.

If you’re looking for extra pampering, they also offer massages and beauty treatments.

So, if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Claudius Therme is the perfect place to go.

Address: Sachsenbergstraße 1, 50679 Cologne

13. Cable Car Ride

The Cable Car is a fun way to see the city of Cologne from a different view. 

You’ll get to enjoy a 7-minute ride from Claudius Therme to Cologne Zoo and see the river Rhine and the city from high above. 

It’s not just for tourists, it’s also a handy way to get around and explore the Rheinpark and nearby areas. 

The cabins are modern and comfortable, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a special way to experience the city.

Address: Sachsenbergstraße 3, 50679 Cologne / Riehler Str. 180, 50735 Cologne

14. Botanical Garden

Cologne Flora is a botanical garden located in the district Riehl.

It is home to a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers, including both native species and exotic specimens from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the garden and enjoy the natural beauty of the plants and flowers.

Whether you’re interested in horticulture, nature, or just looking for a peaceful outdoor experience, Cologne Flora is a wonderful destination for all ages.

Address: Alter Stammheimer Weg, 50735 Cologne

15. Cologne Zoo

The Cologne Zoo, also known as the Zoological Garden of Cologne, is a really famous zoo located in the Rhiel district. 

It has a lot of animals from all over the world. More than 7,000 of them from 600 different species, including some that are rare and in danger. The zoo has great places for the animals to live, and they care a lot about keeping animals safe and healthy.

When you go to the zoo in spring, you can do a lot of fun things like take a tour, see animals perform, and play with interactive exhibits.

There’s also food, shopping, and picnic areas, making it a perfect place for a day out with friends and family.

If you love animals or just want a fun and educational day, the Cologne Zoo is a must-visit when you’re in the city.

Address: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Cologne

16. Media Park

Located in the Neustadt-Nord district of the city, MediaPark was once an abandoned freight station that has since been transformed into an attractive, lively and architecturally outstanding multi-cluster location.

The development of MediaPark began in the 1990s and was designed primarily for media companies. The project was completed in 2004 and today, it serves as a hub for various businesses, including media companies, as well as a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

One of the many highlights of MediaPark is the movie theater Cinedom located within the complex.

For foodies, MediaPark has a variety of restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, there’s something for everyone at MediaPark.

In addition to its restaurants and movie theater, MediaPark is also home to a beautiful bridge that crosses a pond filled with swans. The bridge provides a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll.

The MediaPark is surrounded by beautiful green areas, making it a peaceful and calm place for people to relax and enjoy nature.

It’s a great place for families to have picnics, play with their kids or simply take a break. People of all ages can visit MediaPark and have a great time.

17. Green Belt

The Cologne Green Belt is a group of parks and green spaces around the city of Cologne.

It was made from old fortifications in the 1920s and is split into two parts: the Inner Green Belt and the Outer Green Belt.

The Inner Green Belt covers neighborhoods like Riehl, Mauenheim, and Ehrenfeld, and also includes some university campuses. You can see cool buildings surrounded by nature.

The Outer Green Belt is great for outdoor activities like biking, walking, and canoeing. You can get some exercise, relax, or have a picnic or BBQ.

If you want a quiet place, check out the green spaces along the Rhine River or take the kids to the Merheimer Heide. The Poller Wiesen parks also offer amazing views of the city and the Cathedral and are often the site of parties and events.

So whether you want to exercise, relax, or see the views, the Cologne Green Belt is the perfect place for you!

18. Belgian Quarter

The Belgian Quarter is a special neighborhood in Cologne that is well-loved by everyone. It’s located between Aachenerstraße and Friesenplatz, and is known as the trendiest part of the city.

This neighborhood has a fun atmosphere, with lots of coffee shops, bars, and restaurants to explore. People love to walk around the Belgian Quarter and admire the pretty buildings and try out the local food.

The Belgian Quarter has special buildings with different styles, like Gothic, Art Nouveau, and historicist. The streets are named after cities and provinces in Belgium, like Liege, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Maastricht and Utrecht.

There are also many places to enjoy art, theater, and culture in the Belgian Quarter, making it a popular spot for both visitors and locals.

If you love looking at beautiful buildings, enjoying a lively atmosphere, or learning about history, you should definitely visit the Belgian Quarter when you’re in Cologne.

19. Japanese Cultural Institute

The Japanese Cultural Institute in Cologne is a place where you can learn about Japanese art, history, and language. They also host events and exhibitions that showcase the unique aspects of Japanese culture.

One of the highlights of the institute is the cherry blossom garden. In spring, the cherry trees come into full bloom, creating a stunning display of pink and white flowers. The garden is a popular place to go for a walk and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Whether you’re interested in Japanese culture or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Japanese Cultural Institute in Cologne is definitely worth a visit.

Address: Universitätsstraße 98, 50674 Cologne

20. Aachener Weiher

The Aachener Weiher pond is a popular gathering spot in Cologne. It is a four-hectare artificial body of water surrounded by meadows near the university.

The pond is located next to the Museum of East Asian Art and is named after the nearby Aachener Street, which has existed since Roman times. It is not suitable for swimming.

On nice days, it is a popular spot for young people, including many students, to sunbathe, grill, and chat. There is also a small playground for children.

The park with its gentle hills was created after World War II. Debris and rubble from the destroyed city was piled up there.

If you enjoy sunbathing or picnicing a visit to Aachener Weiher is one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

21. Zülpicher Street

Zülpicher Straße is a street, that is popular with university students and other locals.

The street is filled with fun places to go, like bars, restaurants, cafes, and clubs. You can find a quiet drink, dance at a party, or have a tasty meal.

On weekends, the street becomes very lively and is filled with music, laughter, and people having a good time.

Whether you’re from Cologne or just visiting, Zülpicher Straße is a great place to experience the lively atmosphere of the city.

22. Volksgarten

Volksgarten is a park located in the Volksgarten Quarter. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

The park features a large beer garden, where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink in the sunshine.

There’s also a beautiful pond, where you can take a leisurely ride on a pedal boat and enjoy the scenery from the water. The pond is surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful flowers, creating a peaceful and serene environment.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or enjoy a drink, Volksgarten is a great destination for all ages. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

23. Odonien

With Odonien the artist Odo Rumpf has created a unique blend of outdoor studio, workshop, event venue, and cultural center.

Located in Ehrenfeld between the railway tracks and Europe’s largest eros center, the site stands out with its unique charm.

Event halls, an outdoor stage and a beer garden with quirky metal sculptures offer an atmosphere of industrial culture and improvisational art that is unique in Cologne.

Address: Hornstraße 85, 50823 Cologne

24. Horse racing track

Pferderennbahn Cologne is a horse racing track.

This historic racing venue has been a popular destination for horse racing fans for many years. Visitors can enjoy live horse racing events and place bets on their favorite horses.

The racing track is surrounded by beautiful greenery, making it an ideal place for a day out with friends or family.

There is also a restaurant and bar on site, where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal or drinks while taking in the excitement of the races.

Whether you are a horse racing enthusiast or just looking for an exciting day out, Pferderennbahn Cologne is a great destination to visit in spring. With its beautiful setting and thrilling races, it is a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Address: Rennbahnstraße 152, 50737 Cologne

25. Phantasia Land

Phantasialand is a popular amusement park located in Brühl, near Cologne. It’s a place where you can have loads of fun with your family and friends. 

The park is known for its thrilling rides, exciting attractions, and beautiful scenery. There are different themed areas, each offering its own unique experience.

You can visit the African-themed area and go on a wild animal safari, or you can explore the magical world of Fantasy and experience some of the most thrilling roller coasters.

There are also many shows, performances, and activities to enjoy, making Phantasia Land a perfect destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Whether you’re looking for an exciting day out or just want to have some fun, Phantasialand is definitely one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

Address: Berggeiststraße 31-41, 50321 Brühl

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