Camping in Cologne

The lively Rhine metropolis of Cologne is best known for its carnival. But the cathedral city is also extremely popular with campers. Cologne is ideal for a city trip combined with a holiday close to nature just outside the city. Families with children can look forward to a huge range of leisure activities and one of the largest holiday parks in Germany, the famous Phantasialand. The surrounding countryside and local recreational areas such as the Bergisches Land or the Eifel are great destinations for long hikes and cycle tours.

Special features of camping in Cologne

The cathedral city of Cologne on the Rhine is the fourth largest city in Germany and a perfect destination for campers who want to combine a city trip with a holiday in the countryside. Most of the campsites are located in the countryside just outside the city centre and have excellent connections to the city. Many sites are also close to the Rhine or a lake and are ideal for relaxing hours by the water, especially in summer. Cologne itself is ideal for families and culturally interested campers. There is a wealth of sights in the city, of which the famous Cologne Cathedral and the pretty Old Town are just the best known. A favourite with children is Phantasialand with its rollercoasters and rides. Other great excursion destinations include the Chocolate Museum and Cologne Zoo, while active holidaymakers will also get their money's worth on a camping holiday in Cologne. Hikes in the nearby Eifel region or in the picturesque Bergisches Land with its extensive meadow landscapes are popular. Dogs are allowed at many campsites around Cologne, so walkers are also happy to be accompanied by their four-legged friends.

Popular campsites in Cologne

In addition to pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents, the campsites in Cologne often also offer rental accommodation and mobile homes. As Cologne is a popular destination for city trips, it is advisable to book well in advance during the peak summer season.

Camping Berger

The Berger campsite near the city centre is one of the oldest campsites in Germany and an ideal starting point for a camping holiday in Cologne. The extensive site in a park-like landscape is in a great location directly on the Rhine. A cycle path runs right past the site, which takes you to the city centre in less than 20 minutes. Thanks to the beautiful green surroundings, the site is ideal for dog owners.

Camping Waldbad

The Waldbad campsite north of the city centre offers pure nature. The holiday complex is located in idyllic surroundings in a dense forest near the Cologne-Dünnwald wildlife park. Together with the nearby outdoor pool, this makes the site the ideal destination for a family holiday with children. Campers without a caravan or motorhome can spend their holiday in a rented caravan. Cologne is easily accessible by public transport.

Camping Heider Bergsee

In the immediate vicinity of Phantasialand is this great, family-friendly campsite on Heider Bergsee in the Brühl district. The bathing lake makes this site a real oasis in the countryside, especially in summer. A lido with a sandy beach and large sunbathing lawn is right next to the campsite. The nearby nature park is ideal for hiking, cycling and walking. You can also go diving and snorkelling in the lake.

Favourite places in the region

Cologne is the cultural centre of the region. However, there are many other beautiful places that you should not miss during your camping holiday. A popular excursion destination, for example, is Aachen, the westernmost city in Germany, with its famous cathedral and beautiful old town. The small town of Monschau near the Belgian border, which is known for its medieval town centre with narrow cobbled streets, is also fantastically beautiful. Finally, the Ahr Valley in Rhineland-Palatinate, around 55 kilometres away, is a real natural paradise that is ideal for active holidaymakers.

Aachen

The old imperial city of Aachen is located in the border triangle of Holland, Belgium and Germany and looks back on a long history. Even the Romans recognised the mild climate. Charlemagne later settled here and had the Palatine Chapel built, from which Aachen Cathedral emerged. Aachen's rich history makes it the perfect destination for those interested in culture. The foothills of the nearby Eifel are also a great destination for excursions into the hilly countryside surrounding the city.

Monschau

A trip to the Eifel town of Monschau is like travelling back in time. The small town on the banks of the Rur offers a marvellous townscape with old half-timbered houses, enchanted alleyways and numerous hidden corners. In addition to a leisurely stroll through the romantic old town, there are also excursions into the surrounding area. The famous Eifelsteig trail runs nearby. A walk through flowering meadow valleys from Monschau to Einruhr is particularly popular in spring. Camping Perlenau is a recommended campsite.

Ahr Valley

A little further away from Cologne lies the enchanting Ahr Valley in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. The varied, hilly landscape is a dream for active holidaymakers, who will find a real paradise for hiking and cycling between vineyards and lush meadows. A visit to the spa town of Bad Neuenahr is ideal for a wellness trip. The Ahr Valley also has plenty to offer connoisseurs: the region is known for its excellent wines, especially the delicious Pinot Noir.

Sights and excursion tips

Cologne Cathedral: Cologne Cathedral is the landmark of Cologne and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Those who climb the 533 steps to the almost 100 metre high viewing platform are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Cologne. Phantasialand: The ideal excursion destination for children. The huge Phantasialand amusement park in the Brühl district offers rollercoasters, carousels, several themed worlds and everything a child's heart desires. Museum Ludwig: The Museum Ludwig is one of the most important collections of modern art in Europe. Works by artists such as Picasso, Andy Warhol and Joseph Beuys can be found here. Cologne Zoo: The third oldest zoo in Germany is another great destination for the whole family. Visitors can marvel at more than 500 animal species, including lions, elephants, rare reptiles and colourful flamingos. Chocolate Museum: A real tip for those with a sweet tooth. In the chocolate museum, visitors not only learn all about the production process. If you like, you can also make your own chocolate. There are also regular chocolate courses for children.

Tour tip

If you still have a little time after your camping holiday in Cologne, you should explore this beautiful part of Germany further. A great route leads from Duisburg to the town of Emmerich on the German-Dutch border. The route always runs along the Lower Rhine - one of Germany's most important waterways. In addition to many great scenic impressions, this tour also offers the opportunity for extended excursions by bike. All in all, a wonderful camping tour off the beaten track.