Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke)

The basics

Following the destruction of the historical Cathedral Bridge (Dombrücke) in the early 20th century, the Hohenzollern Bridge was built on its site in 1911. Distinctive for its iron trussing and central location, the bridge was heavily used until it was destroyed in 1945 as Allied troops advanced on the city. After its reconstruction in 1959, the bridge is now one of the busiest in Germany. It serves upwards of 1,200 trains daily and is also open to pedestrians.

Given its proximity to the Altstadt’s highlights (including the Cologne Cathedral) and its status as a major thoroughfare, the Hohenzollern Bridge is featured on numerous sightseeing itineraries, from bike tours to Rhine River cruises.

Things to know before you go

• As the Hohenzollern Bridge measures 1,343 feet (409 meters) long, it can be crossed in just a few minutes’ time.
• Two equestrian statues of Prussian rulers flank each end of the bridge: Friedrich Wilhelm IV and Wilhelm I on the Right Bank, and Friedrich III and Wilhelm II on the Left.
• Located on the Deutz side of the bridge, the KölnTriangle development, completed in 2006 and featuring a large skyscraper, has become a major contemporary landmark.

How to get there

The Hohenzollern Bridge is located in central Cologne; it links the Old Town (Altstadt) with the Deutz neighborhood. On the Altstadt side of the river, the bridge is just steps from the Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), which is served by multiple trains, trams, and bus lines. On the Deutz side, it’s a quick trip from the Köln Messe/Deutz and Bf Deutz/LANXESS Arena stations

When to get there

The Hohenzollern Bridge is always open; given its proximity to landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral, it’s a popular place to enjoy views of the Altstadt and overlooks the Rhine. Visit by day or by night to see different sides of the city.

Love Locks at the Hohenzollern Bridge

Since 2008, couples have affixed “love locks” to the Hohenzollern Bridge as a symbol of their devotion. Today, the bridge has become a romantic landmark, though it’s advised not to add further locks to the landmark, as they could damage the bridge.