The Kölner Seilbahn is a very different way to see Cologne. Its gondolas glide over the Rhine between the Rheinpark on the right bank and a station across Riehler Strasse from the Zoo entrance on the left bank, and the fleet of 48 gondolas, each seating up to four passengers, keeps the journey continuous and relaxed. As you cross, you look down on the river traffic, the Hohenzollern Bridge and the old town skyline, with the cathedral spires standing out above the roofs. It is a short, scenic ride rather than a major attraction, and it is one of the nicest things to do on a sunny day. It suits families on their way to the Zoo, couples who want a quiet view, and walkers who want to link the two banks of the river in a memorable way. Because it runs seasonally, it is best planned for spring to autumn and for dry, clear weather, when the views are at their best.
How to visit
The cable car runs daily, generally from mid-March until the end of October or the start of November, from 10:00 to 18:00, with the last ride leaving at 17:45. A few extended and night rides run on select dates, and there are rides on Advent weekends as well, so check the operator’s website for the current schedule. A one-way ticket costs a few euros, and a return costs somewhat more. Tickets are sold at the box office, and advance reservations are not possible.
What to expect
A smooth, quiet ride suspended above the water, with the city spread out on both sides. You travel in a small private gondola, so you can take photographs at your own pace. The two stations are easy to reach: the left bank station is across the road from the Zoo, and the Rheinpark station is reached via Auenweg through the park. Queues can build up on warm weekends, so aim for the morning or late afternoon.
Making the most of it
Combine the ride with a morning at the Zoo and an afternoon stroll in the Rheinpark, then walk over the Hohenzollern Bridge to finish the day in the old town. If you buy a one-way ticket, you can return on foot across the Zoo bridge or the Hohenzollern Bridge, or take the tram. Because the cable car does not operate in deep winter, plan an alternative such as the Rhine panorama cruise if you are visiting between November and March.
What to expect
The experience
A gondola ride across the Rhine between the Zoo on the left bank and the Rheinpark on the right bank, sold at the box office.
Best time
A dry, clear day between spring and autumn; mornings and late afternoons are quieter.
How long
The crossing itself is short; allow about an hour with queues and the walk to each station.
Tips
Check the season, as the cable car pauses in winter, and buy a return ticket if you want to come back to the zoo side.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families heading to the Zoo and anyone who wants a quiet aerial view of the Rhine.
- Families
- Children love the gondolas, and the zoo station is right across the road from the Zoo entrance.
- Couples
- A peaceful, private gondola with skyline views on a clear day.
- Pair with
- Cologne Zoo and Aquarium, and an afternoon in the Rheinpark.
- Time needed
- About an hour.
Good questions
Where does the Cologne cable car run?+
It crosses the Rhine between the Rheinpark on the right bank and a station across Riehler Strasse from the Zoo entrance on the left bank.
When does the cable car operate?+
It generally runs daily from mid-March until the end of October or early November, from 10:00 to 18:00, with the last ride at 17:45. There are some rides on Advent weekends too.
How many people fit in a gondola?+
Each gondola seats up to four people, and there are 48 gondolas in the fleet.
Can I book tickets in advance?+
No, tickets are sold at the box office and advance reservations are not possible, so check the operator’s website for the current schedule.
Is it worth combining with the Zoo?+
Yes, the left bank station is across the road from the Zoo entrance, so a ride makes a natural start or end to a Zoo visit.
