Coolest Things to Do for a Romantic Date in Cologne

Take a walk along the Hohenzollern Bridge to gaze upon the wall of padlocks, engraved with the name of the lovers who made their pledge to love. There are hundreds of locks in different shapes and sizes demonstrating the commitment and pure devotion two people share. There is plenty of space still left, so purchase a lock, engrave initials and throw the key into the Rhine. There the token of love will remain, perhaps, forever.

The drive-in theatre in Cologne Porz is an excellent way to uplevel a cinema date – given that you have a car. It’s open year-round and screens a selection of the latest films. The on-site snack bar supplies you with burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream and drinks, and you can rent portable heaters for the colder months. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

The Dom Cathedral is an impressive feat of Gothic architecture, but avoid the crowds and visit Dom Museum in the basement. The catacomb-like walls and gentle ambience gives couples some reflective, quiet time. The soft lighting and displays of intricately woven garments and tapestry are a delight. The twinkling jewels and treasures are stunning and can be viewed from all angles. Just remember, if your partner falls in love with jewellery, it’s not for sale!

If you want to impress your date with your mini-golf skills, the trendy quarter Ehrenfeld holds the right place for you. Glowing Rooms is an indoor mini-golf course that spices up the game with 3D effects. Floors, walls and ceilings are painted in bright neon colours all lit up by black lights. You’ll be handed 3D glasses at the entrance, which will let the underwater world, universe and Maya temple motifs come to life. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

At the end of a long day, nothing could be more wonderful than to unwind with a loved one and be pampered at a spa. Cologne has many spa facilities around the city. A popular one is the Claudius Therme. This roman spa offers sauna, outdoor jacuzzis, and massage. On top of this, champagne can be purchased for that ultimate romantic experience. The baths themselves wind beneath cavernous roofs of stone and even has a floating pool! After a swim, settle on a deck chair in the outdoor area and watch the sunset. It’s all proof that Cologne is overflowing with romance.

Beer is an essential part of Cologne’s cultural identity, and brewhouses have a long-standing tradition. The old town provides the perfect setup for a Kölsch tour. Most of the breweries are scattered around the Heumarkt area, and you can hop from one to the next within minutes. And while you’re at it, you can sample some of Cologne’s culinary specialities. The Malzmühle – the home of the popular Mühlen Kölsch – is an excellent place to start. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

Be swept away by the romantic sounds of the Kölner Philharmonic orchestra. Located at Bischofsgartenstraße 1, just by the Dom Cathedral, there are concerts ranging from soloists, choirs, and full orchestral pieces. The repertoire is varied so there is music for all tastes. The auditorium is grand and allows for spacious seating without restricted viewing. It’s the perfect place for a gentle, relaxing evening. Book seats in advance at the Kolner Philharmonie website.

The local observatory gives you and your date the opportunity to look out into the universe. Tours and workshops explain star constellations and their formation and provide an insight into the history of astronomy. On a cloudy day, the night’s sky is projected onto the domed ceiling. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

A short walk from Rudolf Platz train station, are two secret speakeasies: Rosebud and Seibert’s. Rosebud (Heinsbergstr, 20) is a stylish cocktail bar adorned with gold and red furnishings, low tables and stools for intimate conversations. The drinks are creative and well-priced. Seiberts, (Friesenwall 33) is tucked away behind a white door. Ring the door bell and discover a 1920s cocktail lounge with a courtyard. The drinks are works of art and the interior is filled with ornate objects and leather seats. Both establishments are ideal places for a date.

Head to the right side of the river and up to the Köln Triangle tower for epic sunset views of Cologne’s skyline. The viewing platform on the 29th floor is a great spot to watch the sun disappear between the cathedral. It’s open until 11 pm between May and September and until 8 pm the rest of the year. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

Hohe Street is the main shopping street in Cologne, but in the side-streets, there are numerous coffee shops serving delicious cakes and beverages. Winter is the time when these places become their most romantic. Despite the cold weather, coffee shops still have alfresco dining thanks to overhead heating. Nearly all establishments provide thick blankets for patrons. It makes for a very cosy evening, snuggling up to a loved one and enjoying their company and a sweet coffee too.

Take your date for a stroll and rummage through kitsch and antiques at one of Cologne’s flea markets. Every Saturday, locals get their unused items from their basements and attics and head to the Stadtflohmarkt in Cologne’s student district. The market will give you lots of opportunities to dig up some curiosities and gems. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

Chocolate must be the ultimate aphrodisiac so a museum dedicated to it is well worth a visit. The Chocolate Museum takes guests through the process of harvesting cocoa to the exquisite artistry of chocolatiers. Demonstrations of the process are given in the museum, as well as guided tours. And, yes, there is plenty of chocolate to buy and eat!

On a sunny day, the east bank of the Rhine River offers several fantastic picnic spots with views of Cologne’s old town. From the city centre, take a stroll over Love Locks Bridge and follow the promenade. You can choose between the newly developed Rheinboulevard, the nearby park or the pebbled beaches, which are a bit farther. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

Nothing could be more wonderful than a romantic walk through the Rheinpark. With 40 hectares and set along the banks of the Rhein, it provides a tranquil space in which to walk arm-in-arm and enjoy nature. The urban park has plenty of pathways and wonderful views of the Dom Cathedral, which sits opposite the river. Beside exquisitely landscaped gardens and flower beds are coffee shops to rest at and take in the views.

Tucked away in the Belgian Quarter, Belgisher Hof is a rustic yet romantic restaurant. The off-street entrance is a beautifully lit small alley that is adorned with flowers and plants, leading into the main restaurant. The atmosphere is warm and inviting while the candle-lit tables create that all-important intimacy. Try the flammkuchen: a deliciously light bread rolled thinly with a crème Fraiche base.

There is nothing more alluring to lovers than the freedom and beauty of a sailing down a river. Cologne offers numerous boat cruises along the Rhein. It’s a great way of seeing the city and, with food and drink available, a relaxing, stress-free experience. Taking a trip at night, when the old town is illuminated makes it all the more romantic. Tickets can be purchased at shops by the river or online at the Cologne Tourist website.

Cologne’s botanical gardens are one of the most romantic spots in the city. More than 10,000 species of plants are on display in the greenhouses and gardens. Beautifully arranged flower beds, intricately cut hedges, an English garden landscape and more surround the grand Flora building, which dates back to 1864 and hosts weddings, anniversaries and other events throughout the year. Recommended by Marion Kutter.

Cologne offers something for everyone, regardless of your preference for an exhilarating experience or a relaxing stroll. There are many of ways to explore this energetic city, from fascinating historical places to distinctive local experiences.