The Cologne Cable Car is one of the city’s most charming attractions. While many sights take place on the ground, this little gondola lift literally raises you above the Rhine. Since 1957 it has connected the left bank near the zoo with the Rheinpark on the Deutz side.
Within a few minutes the gondolas glide over the water. Below you flows the Rhine, while on the horizon the cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge and the Cologne skyline come into view. In clear conditions in particular, a panorama emerges that you would otherwise only know from viewing platforms or rooftop terraces.
Why is a ride on the Cologne Cable Car worth it?
A ride is short but surprisingly impressive. It connects two popular destinations and offers a special view of the city at the same time.
- a panoramic view of the cathedral and skyline
- crossing the Rhine high up in the air
- a direct link between the zoo/Flora and the Rheinpark
- easy to combine with a visit to Cologne Zoo
The ride is calm and steady, which also makes it very pleasant for families with children.
How long does a ride take?
The journey itself takes about 6 minutes each way. If you plan a return trip, allow around 15–20 minutes in total, depending on any waiting times. Many visitors take just one direction and walk back afterwards — for example through the Rheinpark or along the Rhine.
Cable Car prices – what does the ride cost?
Single tickets
| Ticket type | One-way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | €5.50 | €9.50 |
| Children (4 to 12) | €3.30 | €4.80 |
Groups from 4 people
| Ticket type | One-way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | €5.00 | €8.50 |
| Children (4 to 12) | €2.70 | €4.30 |
Groups from 17 people / school classes
| Ticket type | One-way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | €4.00 | €6.50 |
| Children (4 to 12) | €2.50 | €3.80 |
Multi-ride tickets (10 rides each)
| Ticket type | Return |
|---|---|
| Adults | €85.00 |
| Children (4 to 12) | €43.00 |
Please note:
- People with a disability pay the regular fare.
- If a „B“ is noted in the disability pass, the accompanying person travels free of charge.
- Exception: children up to three years — here the accompanying person travels at the child’s fare.
Please check the current prices on the official website before your visit, as they may change.
Combined ticket with Cologne Zoo – is it worth it?
If you are visiting the zoo anyway, the combined zoo-and-cable-car ticket is a practical solution. It combines zoo admission with the cable-car ride and is usually a little cheaper than two separate tickets. Many visitors structure their trip like this: first a walk through the zoo, then a relaxed ride over the Rhine.
Opening hours
| Season | Operating times (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2026 season: through 8 November inclusive | 10:00–18:00 |
| Winter break from 9 November 2026 | Closed, except for the published Advent rides |
Advent rides 2026: 28–29 November, 5–6, 12–13 and 19–20 December, each day 10:00–18:00; last boarding at 17:45. Regular fares apply. The start of the 2027 season has not yet been confirmed here. Check the operator’s dates and fares. Checked: 14 October 2026.
Operating times depend on the weather. In strong wind or thunderstorms, service may be suspended at short notice, so check online beforehand.
Address & location
Left-bank station (zoo side):
Riehler Straße, 50735 Cologne
The station is right by Cologne Zoo and close to the Flora. From the Zoo/Flora tram stop it is just a few minutes‘ walk. On the right bank, the ride ends in the Rheinpark, which is perfect for a walk with views of the skyline.
Who is the Cologne Cable Car for?
- families with children
- couples on a city break
- anyone interested in photography
- visitors who want to see Cologne from above
The gondolas are enclosed and stable. Even people with a slight fear of heights usually find the ride pleasant.
Practical tips for your ride
- Choose a clear day for the best view.
- Mornings or early afternoon usually mean shorter waiting times.
- Keep your camera ready — the view of the cathedral in particular is worth it.
- Combine the ride with a visit to the zoo or the Rheinpark.
Your hotel in the Agnesviertel
Mercure Hotel Cologne Belfortstrasse is in the Agnesviertel. From the hotel: approx. 1.10 km · 15 min on foot. See our location and directions to plan your journey.
Frequently asked questions
A single ride for adults is around €5.50, a return about €9.50, with reduced fares for children and groups.
About 6 minutes each way; allow 15–20 minutes for a return trip including any waiting time.
Source: Kölner Seilbahn
From the hotel: approx. 1.10 km · 15 min on foot.
