Overview
The Hohenzollern Bridge is a iconic pedestrian and railway bridge spanning the Rhine River in Cologne. It is famous for the numerous love locks that adorn its structure, making it a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of romance.
It is one of the most visited landmarks in Cologne and a significant example of early 20th-century engineering.
Location
Address
Hohenzollern Bridge, Cologne
Neighborhood: Cologne City Center
Coordinates
50.937800, 6.963600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds and better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild and pleasant
- • Cherry blossoms
- • Mild weather
summer
Warm to hot
- • Long daylight hours
- • Outdoor events
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Cool weather
winter
Cold and occasionally snowy
- • Christmas markets
- • Holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No advance booking required
- Bring a padlock for the love locks
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate
- • Be cautious around the river
- • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas
Medical facilities: First aid available at nearby attractions
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes or sneakers, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required
- • Official tourism websites
- • N/A
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Cologne Tourism App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Attraction information, Event calendars, Tickets for local attractions
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and visitor centers
Charging Stations: Available at nearby cafes and restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes by car, 30 minutes by public transport
From City Center
Distance: 1.5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a symbol of Cologne and a great place for a romantic walk
Historical Significance: Built in 1911, it was one of the first major bridges in Cologne and has withstood multiple wars and reconstructions
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best photos without crowds
- The bridge is beautifully lit at night, perfect for evening strolls
- Nearby cafes offer great views of the bridge and cathedral
Local Recommendations
- • Try a local Kölsch beer at a nearby brewery
- • Visit the Cologne Cathedral before or after the bridge
- • Walk along the Rhine River for more scenic views
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: German, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Midway point of the bridge
Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)
Tips: Capture the Cologne Cathedral in the background
Result: Iconic shot of the bridge with the cathedral
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Landmark
Cologne City Hall (Kölner Rathaus)
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historical Building
Rhine Park (Rheinpark)
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Museum Ludwig
Distance: 600m
Walking: 8 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit at sunset for the best views"
- "Bring a padlock to add to the love locks"
- "Combine with a visit to the Cologne Cathedral"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
43
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
Free