20 Romantic Things to Do in Cologne for Couples

The cathedral city has a reputation for it's exceptional nightlife, but did you know there are many romantic things to do in Cologne?

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic rickshaw ride, exploring street art, or admiring the famous skyline by hot air balloon, there are plenty of date ideas in Cologne for couples! 👇

Romantic Activities For Couples In Cologne

Take A Scenic Rhine River Cruise

This is our first recommendation for a reason! Cologne is a beautiful city, and one of ways to admire its "best side" is from the Rhine river.

In particular, there's something really romantic about taking a cruise along the Rhine in the evening.

Imagine drifting past the charming Old Town, the setting sun bathing the cathedral in a golden hue, all while cozied up with your loved one. 

If you're keen on this romantic activity, this cruise is a great option; you'll catch the sunset, enjoy exceptional views, there's a lovely bar onboard, and the duration is just right — perfect as a pre-dinner activity.

Climb to the Top of the Cologne Cathedral

If you're on a romantic getaway to Cologne, then the majestic Cologne Cathedral should be on your itinerary.

Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site that makes its way to most travel bucket lists, it's also a great attraction for couples (if you don't mind the crowds). [1]

Make sure you make your way to the top of the tower, where you'll find the cathedral's viewing platform.

At the top, the view is absolutely stunning. You can see the entire city sprawled out before you, with the majestic Rhine River winding through the landscape.

Gazing out over the city hand-in-hand, you and your significant other will feel as if you're on top of the world.

A Walking Tour of The Old Town

Cologne's Old Town is such a romantic place with its narrow, stone pebbled streets, small shops, restaurants, charming cafés and picturesque squares.

For history buffs especially, it's not impossible to fall in love on a dreamy date exploring the beautiful town hall and the Great St. Martin Church.

Foodies will enjoy chatting over a glass of Kölsch beer at Peters Brauhaus, sampling different types of local mustard at Senfmuseum, or dropping by Bäckerei Zimmermann for old-style pastries!

For something fun, you and your date can try to spot the characters of the Hänneschen puppet theater on the mythical Heinzelmännchen fountain.

Unwind at the Claudius Therme Spa

If you and your partner are feeling worn out, a spa retreat is the perfect remedy. It's a great opportunity for both of you to unwind, de-stress, and reconnect.

For a traditional experience, we always choose Claudius Therme, home to the city's own thermal spring.

Tucked in the beautiful Rhinepark, the spring's mineral-rich water, is recognized for its healing properties! [2]

With tickets starting at €16.50, I find the spa really affordable. There's a variety of baths, from indoor and outdoor pools to jacuzzis and healing pools. The highlight? The panorama sauna with a killer view of Cologne Cathedral.

However, if you prefer something more private, MyWellness in Ehrenfeld is the perfect alternative — you can get a private suite with a sauna and whirlpool!

👋 P.S. Here's our list of the best spas and massage in Cologne.

Dinner at a Romantic Restaurant

Sometimes an average restaurant won't cut it, especially when you're aiming for a date night to impress that special someone!

For something that will really dazzle, consider bringing your date to the OSMAN 30 at the top of the Cologne Tower (Kölner Turm) — the views are amazing.

Your date begins with a stunning vista overlooking the entire city, and the Mediterranean-inspired dishes and wine options are simply fantastic. 

But our personal favorite for a special date night is Brasserie Capricorn (i) Aries.

This romantic street corner restaurant, awarded Bib Gourmand, is known for French brasserie classics like steak frites, soupe de poisson and duck confit.

The service here was also exceptional — the attentive yet unobtrusive service also allowed us to focus on each other, something rare these days!

Take a Couple's Rickshaw Ride

Riding around Cologne in a traditional rickshaw is increasingly popular as a date idea, especially for those who can't be on their feet for long!

Unlike a bus or car, a rickshaw is able to navigate the Cologne's small alleys. That means you and your date get to see parts of the city that would ordinarily be missed.

The best part? Our romantic rickshaw ride came with a picnic lunch, which we enjoyed together in the beautiful Rheinpark!

Elevate Your Date at a Rooftop Bar

If you're looking to elevate your date to the next level, a rooftop bar is where it's at. 

My favorite is Monkey Bar, a hidden rooftop gem perched atop the 25Hours Hotel, featuring lovely views from terrace seats. Their quirky 1970s retro furniture creates an eclectic vibe for your date!

Another option is Bar Botanik atop the classy Wasserturm hotel. The bar offers 360-degree views of the city, and their cocktails are as stunning as the scenery!

Enjoy a Cozy Café Brunch for Two

Unlike dinner dates, brunch dates are more casual; you don't have to worry about dressing up or breaking the bank – great for those early "get to know you" dates!

You'll score brownie points when you bring your partner to Café Schwesterherz, a small, cozy cafe in the heart of Ehrenfeld. They serve good coffee and really yummy cakes, but its charming vibe is what sets it apart.

We also love Café Schmitz, tucked in a quiet spot on Aachener Straße. Frequented by locals, you know the food is good. And you can continue your date at the nearby Volksbühne theatre!

Adventure Activities For Couples In Cologne

Take to The Skies in a Hot Air Balloon

Unlike Cappadocia and Alice Springs, Cologne isn't known for its hot air balloon rides.

In fact, not many are aware it's something one can do here. But that makes a hot air balloon ride all the more unique as a date idea!

Yes, it's pricey, but nothing is more magical than soaring above the clouds and seeing the gorgeous Cologne Cathedral and the rest of Cologne's landscape unfold below you.

Save this one for a very special occasion!

Play Mini-Golf in the Dark

Here's a cute date night idea: How about playing glow-in-the-dark mini-golf together? 

At Glowing Rooms, it doesn't matter if you're not a pro golfer, because it's all about having fun and seeing if your date is up for a little friendly competition.

Plus, mini-golf is a great way to focus on each other without any distractions, like phones or awkward silences.

The dark, glow-in-the-dark environment also creates a romantic atmosphere to let loose and make unique memories together!

Break The Ice Over Ice Skating

Every November to January, the Heumarkt Christmas market has an ice-skating rink that's simply magical.

There's just something magical about gliding across an ice rink with a special someone, soaking in the twinkling lights, gliding hand in hand...

And don't worry if you don't have skates - there's a place to rent them if you don't have your own. Plus afterward, you can warm up over a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine!

Bond Over Animals at The Cologne Zoo

If you both have a soft spot for animals, then the a trip to the Kölner Zoo, or Cologne Zoo, will be the perfect date to bond over your love for them!

Boasting more than 10,000 animals from over 800 species, this is one of the best zoos in Europe. [3]

Be sure to make a stop at the petting zoo - where you and your date can feed the friendly baby goats, chickens, cows and pet fluffy bunnies!

Just be warned that lines to get in and buy tickets can be really long, so highly recommend that you reserve your tickets online if you can!

Skip the lines for a smoother date!

Indulge in Chocolate at The Chocolate Museum

A trip to the Chocolate Museum will sweeten up your date! This popular museum is a paradise for chocoholics, and one of the best things to do in Cologne.

First of all, you get to taste chocolate from start to end. There's a little treat at the entrance, another delicious wafer dipped in the chocolate fountain, and a freshly-made piece at the end!

One of the highlights of the museum is its production facility where visitors can see skilled chocolatiers tempering chocolate, pouring it into molds, and creating beautiful designs.

At the end of your tour of chocolate's 5,000-year history, you even get to play chocolatier and make your own custom chocolate bar to take home!

Go on a Picturesque Bicycle Adventure

One of the best ways to experience Cologne is by taking a bike tour around the city.

You can rent bicycles from Radstation at the Breslauer Platz station, or take part in guided cycling tour – they usually include a bicycle and a local guide to take you around.

I actually loved this guided bike tour by Colonia Aktiv.

Aside from the major attractions, we got to access secret spots off the typical tourist route, like Eigelsteintor, Fort X, Zoo Bridge and many more. We had so much fun, time just flew by!

Enjoy a Nature Walk at Dünnwald Wildlife Park

A nature walk is just simple as it sounds! You and your date pick a nice spot and take a stroll while chatting and getting to know each other.

It won't cost you a thing, and it's a fun way to get active together!

Dünnwald Wildlife Park is a wooded retreat in Cologne filled with walking trails, cycling paths, and carved wooden sculptures.

There are even feed dispensers around the park so you can feed the deer, which happily approach for a closer look!

Budget-Friendly Date Ideas For Couples In Cologne

Visit The Flora Botanical Garden

For couples looking for a budget-friendly and romantic date idea in Cologne, the Flora Botanical Garden is an ideal spot for a stroll. 

Located along the Rhine River, this expansive complex boasts over 10,000 species of plants and flowers. [4]

Located next to the Cologne Zoo, this hidden gem is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient stop after the Zoo.

There are plenty of excellent spots to take photos together too, like the color-coordinated flower beds, and the pond with lily pads and frogs!

Romantic Picnic In The Park

One of the sweetest, wallet-friendly date ideas in Cologne is packing a picnic basket and heading to one of the city's beautiful parks.

The Rheinpark is a particularly popular spot among couples looking for some alone time surrounded by nature.

Spread out a blanket under the trees or find a cozy bench with views of colorful flowers, fountains, and ponds.

You can even charm your partner with homemade snacks or pick up fresh bread and cheese from local markets along the way!

Hunt Ghosts On A Self-Guided Tour

Cologne is over 2,000 years old, and has witnessed its fair share of gruesome tragedies...

So if you and your beau are brave enough, why not explore Cologne's most haunted sights as a date idea?

Witch Hunt is a mysterious self-guided game that brings you to haunted locations – from eerie cemeteries to bombing sites.

These places are said to be haunted by restless spirits, and this spine-chilling escape game isn't for the faint-hearted!

Visit Local Markets As a Couple

Cologne is packed with cool markets scattered throughout the city, and planning a fun date around them is a fun and engaging idea!

You can wander through the charming stalls hand-in-hand while tasting delicious snacks like Belgian waffles or Turkish kebabs. You can even get ingredients to cook together, or pack a picnic lunch!

The Stadtwald Weekly Market is particular romantic, set in a forest near the city, where you can browse under the cool canopy of trees every Saturday!

Another option is the weekly eco-market on Rudolfplatz in downtown Cologne that features sustainable produce, from breads, meats, cheese, and fruits and veggies. It's open on Wednesdays and Saturdays!

Admire The Sunset From Rheinboulevard

The star attraction at the Rheinboulevard, a 1,640 foot-long riverside walkway, is on the other side of the river:

A breathtaking view of Old Town and the gorgeous Cologne Cathedral set against a setting sun. After dark, it's even more beautiful, and creates the perfect scene for romance!

Don't overcomplicate things and just sit on the steps overlooking the water, it's what everyone else does. There's plenty of space to relax without feeling crowded at all.

The nearby Rheingarten is also a popular path that follows the river from Hohenzollern Bridge to Deutzer Bridge, offering lovely views along the way, great for photos! 

Sample Kölsch From Different Breweries

If you're both into beer and it's your first time in Cologne, why not make a date out of trying the local Kölsch brews?

There are only a few breweries, or Brauhäuser, left in Cologne that still produce Kölsch beer in the traditional way — and each of them taste different!

A brewery tour can easily be done at your own pace, and you can even stop for lunch or dinner at one of the breweries along the way!

Get Up Close With Animals At Lindenthaler Tierpark

Lindenthaler Zoo might be a bit off the beaten path, but trust me, it's a hidden gem that's totally worth the journey. The best part? It's free entry.

This large, tranquil park has animals roaming around an enclosed area, and you can get up close with them. Lots of animals, like chicken and geese, even walk outside of the cages.

It's fun to feed them too; there's animal food that you can buy for 1 euro at the feeding stations. If you're lucky, the sheep, cows and goats will let you pet them.

However don't feed them any outside food – it's for the safety of the animals!

Hidden Gems For Couples In Cologne

Visit The Love Lock Bridge And Add Your Own Lock

Attaching a padlock on Hohenzollern Bridge with your significant other is a tradition for many couples in Cologne.

Lovers often inscribe their names or initials on the lock before securing it to the railing, then tossing the key into the Rhine River below. It sounds a little cheesy... but it's a symbol of "locking away" their love, keeping it secure.

The best time to visit is at sunset when the warm glow illuminates the thousands of locks against the stunning Rhine River.

Discover The Vibrant Street Art Scene

More than just art galleries, the Belgian Quarter is undoubtably the coolest place in Cologne, filled with urban street art and graffiti (some commissioned and some... ahem... illegal), making it one of our favorite free date ideas in the city!

You'll find everything from murals and painted shop shutters to quirky sculptures dotted throughout the area. And things are always changing – what you see today might be painted over tomorrow and replaced by something else!

Another neighborhood for street art lovers is Ehrenfeld, which has become an outdoor gallery in recent years thanks to the work of local artists.

Hangout at a Beer Garden

When you're planning a date and want something easygoing and fun, a beer garden is the way to go. It's way more relaxed than a fancy restaurant, so you can just kick back and enjoy yourself.

During the warmer months, we like hitting up HELLERS Volksgarten. It's in Volksgarten park, which is a cool spot to hang out in. 

The view overlooking the pond is super nice, and being surrounded by nature adds to the vibe.

Plus, you can even rent a pedal boat on the river for some extra romantic fun!

Admire Contemporary Art at Museum Ludwig

Even if you're not typically into art, Museum Ludwig may surprise you. My wife and I stumbled upon it, and we ended up spending hours admiring their incredible collection.

This museum is a treasure trove of modern art, featuring everything from pop art to abstract and surrealism. Plus, it's home to one of the largest Picasso collections in the world!

Located just behind Cologne Cathedral, next to the Hohenzollern Bridge, it's a convenient date spot to reach.

And if you're up for more art, the Wallraff-Richardz Museum is just a five-minute walk away.

Explore Sculptures at Stammheim Castle Park

Stammheim Castle Park might not be on everyone's radar, but it's a hidden gem in Cologne for couples!

The actual Stammheim Castle was destroyed by a bomb attack in 1944, but the park was thankfully preserved.

Today, the park is a canvas of art sculptures emerging from the greenery, and each new year unveils new art installations to admire.

It's free to wander around the park, and check out old trees, sculptures, and bits of the original castle that remains!

Romantic Day Trips For Couples In Cologne

Benrath Palace: A Baroque Masterpiece

🕒 23 mins travel time by train & bus

A short ride from Cologne, is the pretty pink Benrath Palace in Düsseldorf, a Baroque-style "pleasure palace".

This UNESCO World Heritage Site masterpiece features immaculate gardens full of beautiful flowers, spanning over 61 hectares.

It's proximity to public transportation  also makes it a convenient and romantic day trip from Cologne for couples!

Phantasialand: Award-Winning Themepark

🕒 1 hour travel time by train and bus

If you're a pair of thrill seekers, Phantasialand is the perfect day trip to have fun together as a couple. In fact, many fans argue it's better than Europa-Park or Disneyland!

Feel the rush of adrenaline on the award-winning Taron ride, or hold onto each other tight as you scream your lungs out while spinning around on Winja's Fear & Force.

Just remember to take fun and silly photos around the park, they'll make for unforgettable memories of your date!

Linz am Rhein: A Fairytale Village

🕒 1 hour travel time by train

What can be more romantic than exploring a medieval village like Linz am Rhein?

This enchanting town is known for its exceptionally well-preserved half-timbered houses that date back to the late Middle Ages.

And the cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and ancient architecture provide a romantic backdrop for couples, away from the hustle and bustle of Cologne!

Seven Mountains: A Hiking And Sightseeing Destination

🕒 1 hours travel time by train and bus

If you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or exploring historic castles, then Seven Mountains (or Siebengebirge) should be on your list of day trips from Cologne.

Our favorite is the Rheinsteig, a long-distance hiking trail that has breathtaking views of the Rhine River!

If you can make it, make sure to visit Drachenburg Castle, on the top of Drachenfels hill.

Conclusion: Things to do in Cologne for Couples

Cologne has a lot to offer couples looking for romantic activities and adventures! From swanky rooftop bars to getting up close to animals at a wildlife park, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Whether you're on a tight budget or looking something upscale, Cologne has something for every couple.

Key Takeaways

• Couples visiting Cologne can enjoy a scenic Rhine River cruise, visit the majestic Cologne Cathedral for stunning views of the city, and take romantic carriage rides through historic streets.
• For adventure-seeking couples, hot air balloon rides over the city or bike tours around its beautiful scenery are great options. The Kölner Zoo also offers an opportunity to spend time with exotic animals.
• Budget-friendly date ideas in Cologne include picnics in parks, walking along the Rhine River to admire breathtaking sunset views and exploring local markets for tasty and affordable meals. Couples can also indulge in sweet treats at the Chocolate Museum while enjoying each other's company.

FAQs

1. What are some romantic activities to do in Cologne for couples?

Visiting the Cologne Cathedral, taking a boat tour on the Rhine River, exploring the old town together and trying traditional German cuisine at local restaurants are all romantic activities for couples in Cologne.

2. Are there any hidden gems in Cologne that couples should visit?

Yes, there are many hidden gems such as visiting the peaceful Botanical Garden Flora or enjoying a picnic at Volksgarten Park. Couples can also take a stroll along the picturesque streets of Brühl or explore stunning views from atop Stenzelberg Hill.

3. What is the best time of year to plan a romantic trip to Cologne?

The best time depends on personal preferences but springtime and early autumn tends to be ideal as it’s warm enough for outdoor activities but not too crowded with tourists during peak season summer months.

4. Can you recommend any special places to stay for couples looking for a romantic getaway in Cologne?

There are many lovely options such as Hotel im Wasserturm which offers luxurious spa treatments, stylish rooms and sublime French-inspired dining experiences or Gasthaus zur Eiche which is an intimate bed & breakfast housed within an historic building just steps away from popular attractions like Museum Ludwig and Heumarkt Square.