Is the Cologne Triangle worth the entry fee?

Yes, it is highly recommended for photographers. It provides the only high-altitude 360-degree view where you can actually see the Cologne Cathedral as part of the skyline, which is not possible from the Cathedral towers themselves.

When is the best time for a walking tour Cologne riverside route?

The best time is about 90 minutes before sunset. This allows you to cross the bridge in daylight, see the sunset from the Rheinboulevard, and see the city lights come on as you cross back over the Deutzer Brücke.

Can I walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge?

Yes, the bridge has dedicated pedestrian and bicycle paths on both the north and south sides. It is a completely free and very popular way to cross between the Old Town and Deutz.

Are there stairs on this walking route?

There are stairs at the Rheinboulevard and at the bridge approaches, but all locations on this route offer elevator or ramp alternatives, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

What is the 'Schäl Sick' mentioned in Cologne?

The 'Schäl Sick' is a local dialect term for the right bank of the Rhine (the Deutz side). Historically it was considered the 'wrong' side, but today it is prized for having the best views of the historic city center.

How difficult is this self-guided walk?

The route is moderate in length (about 3-4 kilometers total) but is mostly flat. The only elevation comes from crossing the bridges and the optional ascent of the Cologne Triangle via elevator.

Is the Hohenzollern Bridge safe at night?

Yes, the bridge is well-lit and very busy with commuters and tourists late into the evening. It is one of the safest and most vibrant areas of the city at night.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Discover the most iconic skyline in Germany from a completely different perspective. While most visitors stay within the narrow alleys of the Old Town, this self-guided walk takes you across the Rhine to the 'Schäl Sick'—the right bank—where the true panoramic magic happens. This walking route is a dream for photography enthusiasts and anyone who wants to see the Cologne Cathedral in its full, unobstructed glory. You will begin at the world-famous Hohenzollern Bridge, surrounded by hundreds of thousands of colorful love locks, before crossing the river to explore the modern and historic highlights of the Deutz neighborhood. As you follow this neighborhood stroll, you will experience the contrast between Cologne’s industrial past and its sleek, contemporary architecture. The route leads you through the lush Kennedy-Ufer and up to the breathtaking heights of the Cologne Triangle, offering a 360-degree view of the city and the surrounding Rhineland. You will also spend time at the Rheinboulevard, a massive riverside staircase that has quickly become the city’s favorite outdoor living room. This area provides the quintessential 'Cologne postcard' view, especially as the sun begins to set behind the cathedral’s twin spires. Crossing back over the Deutzer Brücke, you will see the city from yet another angle, capturing the colorful houses of the Fish Market and the Great St. Martin Church. The walk concludes in the vibrant Heumarkt, one of the city's largest and most historic squares. This is more than just a walking tour Cologne offers; it is a curated journey through the vistas that define the city's identity. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, exploring independently with this audio walk allows you to linger at the best viewpoints and soak in the atmosphere of the Rhine at your own pace.

Highlights

Walk across the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge covered in thousands of love locks

Experience the best panoramic views of the Cologne Cathedral from the Deutz bank

Ascend the Cologne Triangle for a 360-degree view of the city and river

Relax on the grand steps of the Rheinboulevard, Cologne's premier sunset spot

Capture perfect photos of the colorful Old Town from the Deutzer Brücke

Explore the historic Heumarkt square in the heart of the city

Tour Stops (6)

Hohenzollern Bridge

Welcome to the Hohenzollern Bridge, perhaps the most photographed bridge in Germany. Originally built between 1907 and 1911, this heavy-duty railway and pedestrian bridge is a symbol of Cologne's resilience and romance. Look closely at the fences separating the walkway from the tracks; they are adorned with over 500,000 'love locks.' Couples from all over the world come here to attach a padlock and throw the key into the Rhine as a sign of eternal love. As you walk toward the right bank, notice how the three massive iron arches frame the Cathedral behind you. It is a spectacular sight that perfectly blends industrial strength with Gothic elegance.

Kennedy-Ufer

Now that you have crossed the river, you are on the 'Schäl Sick'—a local term for the right bank of the Rhine. Kennedy-Ufer is a scenic riverside promenade named after John F. Kennedy. This stretch offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling Old Town side. To your left, you can see the modern headquarters of major German companies, while to your right, the Rhine flows steadily toward the North Sea. This is a perfect spot to pause and appreciate the sheer scale of the river traffic. The large building you see nearby is the Hyatt Regency, known for hosting international dignitaries and offering one of the most prestigious views in the city.

Cologne Triangle

Standing 103 meters tall, the Cologne Triangle is a masterpiece of modern glass architecture. While the Cathedral is the city's tallest historic structure, this building provides the best platform to actually look at it. Take the elevator to the 'Panorama' observation deck on the top floor. From behind the safety glass, you get a 360-degree view that extends as far as the Siebengebirge mountains on a clear day. You can see the layout of the city's rings, the various bridges spanning the Rhine, and the intricate details of the Cathedral's roof that are invisible from the ground. It is the ultimate orientation point for any explorer.

Rheinboulevard

The Rheinboulevard is Cologne's grand urban balcony. Completed in 2015, this 500-meter-long staircase made of light-colored stone has become the city's most popular meeting spot. On sunny evenings, hundreds of locals gather here to watch the sun dip behind the Great St. Martin Church and the Cathedral. The white steps provide a clean, modern foreground for your photos of the historic skyline across the water. It is a place for slow travel—sit down for a moment, enjoy the breeze off the water, and watch the tour boats and cargo barges navigate the currents of the Rhine.

Deutzer Brücke

As you begin your walk back toward the Old Town, you will cross the Deutzer Brücke. Unlike the railway-focused Hohenzollern Bridge, this is a major artery for cars and the city's light rail. However, its wide pedestrian paths offer a unique vantage point. From here, the view of the 'Fish Market'—the row of colorful, narrow houses in the Old Town—is unparalleled. This bridge has a long history, with various versions existing since Roman times. The current structure, completed after WWII, reflects the functionalist style of the era but serves as a vital link between the two halves of the city.

Heumarkt

You have arrived at Heumarkt, one of the largest squares in Cologne's Old Town. In the Middle Ages, this was a bustling center for the hay trade, and today it remains a hub of social life, especially during Carnival and the Christmas market season. In the center of the square stands the massive equestrian statue of King Frederick William III of Prussia. Surrounded by traditional breweries and cafes, Heumarkt is the perfect place to end your journey. Whether you choose to enjoy a cold Kölsch beer or explore the nearby narrow streets, you are now back in the historic heart of the city after seeing it from its most beautiful angles.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk is approximately 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) and takes about 15-20 minutes. This includes crossing the Hohenzollern Bridge, which offers spectacular views of the Rhine along the way.