The Cologne Cable Car (Kölner Seilbahn) connects the two banks of the Rhine River in the leafy northern district of historic Cologne. Enjoy an unbeatable aerial view of the city as you soar over the river in a comfortable gondola carriage. You’ll see the pretty parklands on both sides of the riverbank and the cars rushing below on the Zoo Bridge as you make your relaxing journey.

The Cologne Cable Car opened in 1957 as a means of transportation between exhibition sites during the city’s Bundesgartenschau horticultural show. It was expanded in 1966 and remains a popular and scenic means of transportation for locals and visitors alike. Begin your journey in leafy Rheinpark on the southern banks of the river or near the Cologne Zoo and Botanical Garden on the northern bank.

Purchase your tickets and climb into the cosy gondola carriage, which can accommodate four people. As you begin your sky-high journey across the Rhine River, delight in the landscape that changes before your eyes. Check out the city’s panorama as you are whisked across the treetops and over the waterway. Peer down to see the city’s thermal baths, which are known as Claudius Therme. The Cologne Cable Car ride is a great way for photographers to capture a picture of the city’s skyline. It’s also a romantic spot for couples to enjoy a sunset.

Point out the city’s different landmarks to the kids and see if you can spot the animal enclosures at the Cologne Zoo. Combine a trip to the exciting zoo with your ride on the cable car. Another nearby attraction is Cologne’s magnificent Flora und Botanischer Garten (Botanical Garden).

The Cologne Cable Car is an inexpensive and scenic way to travel in the city’s northern suburb of Riehl. Purchase round-trip tickets or get a one-way fare and stroll back along the pretty riverfront. Rheinpark is a 20-minute walk from the Köln Messe/Deutz railway hub. Rail stations are located within a short distance from the northern terminus of the Cologne Cable Car.