What to Do in Cologne when it’s hot? 15 Ideas!

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Are you planning a trip to Cologne during the hot summer months? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the city has plenty of activities to offer during the summer.

To help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city, we’ve put together a list of 15 things to do in Cologne when it’s hot. So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to explore this beautiful city!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW….

If you are looking to make the most out of your experience in Cologne, the KölnCard is the ultimate tip. This card allows you to explore Cologne while saving money in the process.

With the KölnCard, you can travel for free on public transport and receive discounts of up to 50% from numerous partners.

So, if you’re looking for a way to make your trip to Cologne budget-friendly, be sure to get your hands on the KölnCard.

15 Things to Do in Cologne when it’s hot

1. Rhine River Cruise

Discover the beauty of Cologne in the summertime by taking a Rhine River cruise. This is one of the best things to do in Cologne when it’s hot!

Going on a Rhine River cruise is an awesome way to have fun, learn, and cool down all at once.

You’ll learn about the history and culture of Cologne and the Rhine River from friendly tour guides. They will tell you interesting stories about the landmarks you’ll see, and how the river is important to the city.

So, if you want to do something exciting and memorable in Cologne on a hot summer day, you should definitely take a Rhine River cruise.

You’ll get to relax, have fun, and learn all at the same time while you take in the amazing views along one of Europe’s most famous rivers.

2. Rhine Boulevard

Address: Hermann-Pünder-Straße 2, 50679 Cologne

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 Rhine Boulevard has everything you need. It is a perfect place to go to in Cologne when it’s hot.

3. Green Belt

The Cologne Green Belt is a group of parks and green spaces that encircle the city. It was created a long time ago from old fortifications and is divided into two parts.

The Inner Green Belt includes neighborhoods like Riehl, Mauenheim, and Ehrenfeld, as well as some university campuses. Here, you can admire impressive buildings surrounded by nature.

The Outer Green Belt is perfect for outdoor activities such as biking, walking, and canoeing. It’s a great place to get some exercise, unwind, or have a picnic or barbecue.

For a peaceful atmosphere, check out the green areas by the Rhine River or take your kids to Merheimer Heide.

The Poller Wiesen parks also offer amazing views of the city and the Cathedral and are frequently used for parties and events.

Whether you’re looking to get active, relax, or take in some beautiful scenery, the Cologne Green Belt is a place to go to when it is hot.

4. Aachener Weiher

The Aachener Weiher pond is a famous hangout spot in Cologne, located near the university. This man-made lake covers four hectares and is surrounded by vast grassy fields.

The pond is located close to the Museum of East Asian Art and is named after Aachener Street, which dates back to ancient Roman times. Sadly, swimming is not allowed in the pond.

On sunny days, especially in the summer, the pond is a popular destination for young people, particularly students. They have barbecues, chat with their friends or simply enjoy the sun.

Additionally, there’s a small play area for kids to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a great way to spend a summer day in Cologne, then visiting the Aachener Weiher pond is a must.

Whether you enjoy soaking up the sun or having a picnic with your friends, this spot is definitely worth checking out.

5. Volksgarten

Located in the heart of Cologne lies the beautiful Volksgarten, a green oasis perfect for escaping the hustle of city life.

As you enter the park, you’re greeted by a stunning pond where you can rent paddle boats and enjoy a leisurely ride on the water.

The park also boasts a charming beer garden, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal.

If you’re looking for a cooler atmosphere, the park’s trees provide ample shade and create a tranquil atmosphere. This is why the Volksgarten is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful spot in the heart of Cologne, where you can relax in a beautiful natural setting.

6. Adenauer Weiher

Escape the heat and enjoy a peaceful retreat in the heart of Cologne at Adenauer Weiher.

This stunning lake, located near the RheinEnergieStadion, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its lush trees offering ample shade, it’s the perfect spot to take a walk or jog around while enjoying the fresh air.

During home games of the 1. FC Cologne soccer team, you can even listen to the fan songs from the lake, adding to the unique experience.

Adenauer Weiher also features the Club Astoria restaurant, which offers a stunning view of the lake, making it an excellent spot for a bite to eat.

The lake is part of the larger green belt, making it a popular destination for those seeking nature and exercise.

With nearby meadows and a tranquil atmosphere, Adenauer Weiher is the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet during the hot summer months.

7. Salon Schmitz

Address: Aachener Str. 28, 50674 Cologne

Looking for a sweet treat to help you beat the heat in Cologne? Look no further than Salon Schmitz!

This charming cafe, located in the trendy Belgian Quarter, serves up some of the city’s best ice cream. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, there’s something for everyone – from classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to more unusual offerings.

The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to sit down and enjoy your ice cream.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Salon Schmitz is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in some delicious, refreshing ice cream on a hot summer day.

8. Claudius Therme

Address: Sachsenbergstraße 1, 50679 Cologne

Looking for a relaxing oasis to escape the scorching heat of summer? Look no further than Claudius Therme, one of Europe’s most stunning thermal baths.

Located in Rheinpark near Rhein Boulevard, this spa offers a range of amenities designed to help let go of stress.

From swimming pools to hot rooms for sweating out toxins, to spots for simply chilling out, there’s something for everyone.

And for the ultimate indulgence, take a dip in the special pool filled with salt from the Dead Sea and feel weightless as you float.

To really pamper yourself, consider booking a massage or a beauty treatment.

Whether you’re a local looking for a quick getaway or a spa experience, Claudius Therme is the perfect destination for anyone in need of a little rest and relaxation.

9. Neptunbad

Looking for a unique and refreshing way to beat the heat in Cologne? Look no further than Neptunbad, a special bathhouse in Cologne where you can relax and feel good.

There’s one thing you need to know before going there: to use the bath you will have to be naked. There are no separate changing rooms for men and women.

Inside Neptunbad, you can enjoy different types of saunas, like Finnish and Roman saunas, and a steam room. If you want to cool down, you can take a swim in the indoor or outdoor pools.

The outside area is made like a Japanese garden. You can also sit and relax on a terrace while eating or drinking something.

It might feel strange at first, but being naked is a normal part of the Neptunbad experience. If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend your day, Neptunbad is a great place to go to in Cologne when it’s hot.

10. Outdoor Pool at Rhein Energie Stadium

The outdoor pool at Rhein Energie stadium is a great place to go to on hot days in Cologne.

The pool has a large area for swimming, as well as a diving board and water slide. There are also separate areas for kids to play and splash around.

If you need a break from the sun, there is plenty of shade available, thanks to the trees surrounding the pool.

The outdoor pool at Rhein Energie stadium also has a kiosk where you can buy snacks and drinks.

Overall, it’s a fun and refreshing way to cool off during the summer months in Cologne.

11. Kölsche Riviera

Are you looking for an exciting summer activity? Why not hop on your bike and head south along the Rhine river!

Pedal your way to the “Kölsche Riviera,” also known as the Heinrich-Lübke-Ufer, a sandy stretch of riverbank in the charming Cologne neighborhood of Rodenkirchen. Sink your toes into the soft sand, and soak up the sun’s rays.

If biking isn’t your thing, you can take the tram to get there.

While swimming is not permitted, the “Kölsche Riviera” still offers a perfect spot to unwind and relax by the river.

After your leisurely time at the riverbank, be sure to pop over to the Alte Liebe, a charming houseboat converted into a restaurant, located right next door. Treat yourself to a refreshing drink and take in the beautiful view of the river while enjoying the unique atmosphere.

So if you’re looking for a relaxing day out by the water, the “Kölsche Riviera” is one of the best spots to go to in Cologne when it’s hot. Plan your trip today, and discover the beauty and charm of Cologne’s riverfront.

12. Fühlinger See Lake

Looking for a great place to beat the heat and enjoy some fun in the sun? Then Fühlinger See might be the right destination for you.

This beautiful lake boasts a stunning sandy beach area, making it the perfect place to soak up the sun and cool off in the water.

Surrounded by lush trees, Fühlinger See lake offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s sure to help you relax. You can enjoy a swim in the waters, or simply lounge on the beach and catch some rays.

For the more adventurous, Fühlinger See lake also offers exciting activities like Stand Up Paddling (SUP) and scuba diving.

No matter what your ideal day at the lake looks like, Fühlinger See is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle of city life and unwind in a beautiful natural setting.

So why wait? Grab your beach towel and sunscreen, and head to Fühlinger See for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun!

13. Bleibtreusee

If you’re looking for a beautiful natural retreat with plenty of activities, Bleibtreusee might be the right place to go to!

This stunning lake is one of the few seas in the area where you can legally swim. Best of all, there’s no entry fee!

However, it’s worth noting that the beach area is not supervised, so swimming is at your own risk.

The lake is divided into several zones, including a lovely sandy beach area for sunbathing and swimming, as well as areas for fishing, diving, and surfing.

For those looking for a bit more adventure, why not try water skiing or stand-up paddleboarding?

When you need a break from all the water activities, you can refuel with a quick bite at the beachside snack bar. Enjoy a burger, currywurst, fries, or ice cream, and even grab a cold beer to cool off on those hot summer days.

So if you’re ready for a day of fun in the sun surrounded by natural beauty, head to Bleibtreusee and make a splash!

14. Otto Maigler See Lake

Looking for the perfect beach getaway in the Köln-Bonner region? Look no further than the Otto Maigler See lake Hürth near Cologne!

This lake is one of the most popular and sought-after swimming spots in the region.

At the heart of the beach area lies a Beachclub, covering an impressive 3,000 square meters. Here, you’ll find an array of comfy seating options, including lounge chairs, sofas, and even plush daybeds with pillows for the ultimate relaxation experience.

The on-site restaurant offers a variety of drinks and delicious meals to satisfy any appetite. And on weekends, the party heats up as DJs spin tunes that keep the crowds dancing well into the night.

With 2,500 parking spaces available, getting to the Otto Maigler See lake is a breeze.

So pack your sunscreen, grab your swimsuit, and head to this beautiful lake for a day of sun, fun, and relaxation that you won’t soon forget!

15. Open-air cinema (Sommerkino)

Cologne’s open-air cinema is a summer film festival that takes place in Rheinauhafen.

During this festival, people can watch movies outside on a big screen in a beautiful setting.

Taking place at Rheinauhafen, the festival is offering visitors a great view of the River Rhine while watching movies.

People can bring a blanket and relax while watching the movie. Even sitting in a beach chair is possible.

The festival often includes a variety of films, from popular blockbusters to indie productions, making it a great event for film lovers of all ages and interests.

The open-air film festival is one of the highlights of the summer in Cologne and is a fun and unique way to enjoy a movie.

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