Great views make this iconic railway bridge the perfect place for a stroll with your camera.
The Hohenzollern Bridge links the two sides of Cologne across the River Rhine. This key transport link takes hundreds of trains into the central station every day, but has also played an important historical role in the city.
The bridge’s name comes from the Hohenzollern dynasty, which ruled Germany at the time of its construction in 1911. Built as a major transport link to serve the rapidly industrialising region around Cologne, this bridge provided vital supply lines across the Rhine during the Second World War. Allied bombs failed to damage it significantly, and it was retreating German troops who eventually tore it down in 1945. A replacement 400-metre pedestrian and rail bridge was constructed in 1948.
Walking along Hohenzollern Bridge, you’ll be stunned by the excellent views of Cologne Cathedral and the city skyline that it offers. Watch boats travel up and down the mighty Rhine beneath your feet. One thing you can’t miss is the forest of padlocks that has sprung up along the railings on the bridge. These first appeared in 2008 as part of a trend in several European cities. Love messages or pairs of initials are engraved on the padlocks before they are locked into place, as a symbol of a lasting commitment. Why not buy your own padlock and have it engraved as a memento of your visit? Or just spend some time reading the messages posted along the path.
Hohenzollern Bridge is easy to locate on the river. The best way to get there is from the west bank, by the cathedral. The nearest U-Bahn station is Dom/Hauptbahnhof, or parking is available in the Alter Markt area. The bridge is publicly accessible, but cars are not allowed on it.
