Hohenzollern Bridge: Cologne's Iconic River Crossing
Walk across Cologne's iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, a symbol of love adorned with thousands of locks, offering stunning views of the Rhine and the Cologne Cathedral.
The Hohenzollern Bridge, spanning the Rhine River in Cologne, is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol of the city's resilience and a testament to enduring love. Originally built in the early 20th century to replace the Cathedral Bridge, it suffered significant damage during World War II but was reconstructed to become a vital railway and pedestrian link. Today, it stands as Germany's most heavily used railway bridge, accommodating over 1,200 trains daily. Beyond its functional importance, the bridge has become famous for the thousands of 'love locks' attached to its railings by couples, creating a unique and colorful display of affection. Walking across the Hohenzollern Bridge offers stunning panoramic views of Cologne, including the iconic Cologne Cathedral, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking a blend of history, romance, and breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to Hohenzollern Bridge
- Hohenzollern Bridge, Cologne, Innenstadt, 50679, DE
- +492212210
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for a particularly romantic experience, as the city lights begin to illuminate and reflect on the Rhine.
- Take your time to stroll across the bridge and read some of the inscriptions on the love locks – some are funny, some are heartfelt, and all tell a story.
- The bridge can be crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends. Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a more peaceful experience.
- Consider taking a guided walking tour of Cologne that includes the Hohenzollern Bridge to learn more about its history and significance.
- Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians while walking on the bridge, as it is a shared space.
Getting There
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Walking
From Cologne Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) or Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge is easily accessible on foot. Exit the station towards the Cathedral and follow the path behind the Cathedral, crossing Heinrich-Böll-Platz. The footpath leading onto the bridge is clearly marked and only a few minutes away. There are no costs involved in accessing the bridge on foot.
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Public Transport
If arriving at Cologne Deutz Messe station, the Hohenzollern Bridge is a short walk (approximately 450m). Exit the station and follow the signs towards the bridge. Alternatively, from other parts of Cologne, take the U-Bahn to Dom/Hauptbahnhof station. From there, follow the walking directions. A single ticket within Cologne (Preisstufe 1b) costs approximately €3.00.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Cologne city center to the Hohenzollern Bridge will take only a few minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €9-€11 for a short trip within the city center.
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