The year is slowly drawing to a close. After the Christmas season, there is another highlight in December in Cologne: New Year’s Eve is coming up! As the Hohenzollern Bridge and the immediate vicinity of the cathedral are often closed for their own fireworks displays for safety reasons, this year’s events will take place in other locations. Fortunately, there are more than enough of them in Cologne. Here are five top recommendations for your New Year’s Eve in Cologne.
1. the Rhine embankment promenade (Altstadt & Deutz)
The classic par excellence. From the Old Town side or (even better for a panoramic view) from the Deutz side, you have the best view of the fireworks against the backdrop of the cathedral and Old Town. You couldn’t be any closer to the action. If you’re worried about the crowds: On the Deutz side between Deutz Bridge and Hohenzollern Bridge, it is usually a little more spacious than in the narrow Old Town.
2nd New Year’s Eve on the boat
If you want to escape the crowds on land, a boat trip on the Rhine is the best option. Why not watch the fireworks from the water? There are various offers: from an all-inclusive party with buffet to a pure round trip. At midnight on the dot, all the boats are lined up in front of the cathedral panorama .
3. the Cologne bridges
There aren’t exactly many mountains in Cologne and the buildings are tall. The bridges are therefore a perfect place for your New Year’s Eve in Cologne: Here you are elevated and have a clear view. The Severin Bridge is particularly popular, as it offers a sweeping view over the Rhine and the crane houses in the Rheinauhafen. The bridges are closed to car traffic but are accessible to pedestrians.
4th Rheinauhafen (Südstadt)
Are you looking for a slightly more chic alternative to the classic old town? Then the modern harbor area with its striking crane buildings is the best option for you. There are many restaurants here that offer special New Year’s Eve menus. After your meal, you can enjoy the fireworks directly on the waterfront.
5. parties in the trendy districts
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For those who prefer dancing indoors to standing outside in the cold: Visit the best parties in trendy districts such as Ehrenfeld and the Belgian Quarter. Clubs such as the Live Music Hall or Bumann & Sohn host legendary New Year’s Eve parties. Around Brüsseler Platz you will find countless bars where you can celebrate the New Year in typical Cologne style.