Car Hire Cologne

Germany is known as the land of no speed limits. However, that’s only true on the autobahn. On these major routes, signs display the variable speed limits, with a recommended top speed of 130km/h in the unlimited sections. In the heart of Cologne, it’s a different story. The maximum speed here is 50km/h. Remember to drive on the right and overtake on the left.

Bridges are a central part of Cologne’s transport network, connecting both sides of the city across the Rhine. Hohenzollern Bridge is perhaps the most distinctive, as it’s often photographed with the iconic cathedral in the background. It’s reserved for pedestrians, cyclists and trains – but it’s still a sight you’ll behold as you’re cruising past.

A low emission zone is in force in much of central Cologne, so you’ll need a permit to drive here. However, our hire cars and vans come with a green sticker permit as standard – so there’s no hassle.

Finding a parking space in Cologne is simple – just look out for the blue ‘P’ signs at roundabouts and junctions. These direct you to the nearest multi-storey car parks and often display the number of available spaces. There are around 11,000 on-street parking spaces where you can park for 24 hours for just €4. Find out where they are with this map.

The best way to travel to the many nearby cities and attractions around Cologne is by motorway. Düsseldorf, another major artistic hotspot, is around one hour away via the A57 northbound. Bonn, the birthplace of musical virtuoso Beethoven, is just 40 minutes’ drive down the A555. Find your inner thrillseeker at Phantasialand, an epic theme park around 30 minutes’ drive from Cologne via the A555 and A553 southbound from the city centre.

Cologne is an eclectic place where classic charms meet contemporary edge. Originally a Roman settlement, it’s been refining its beauty for thousands of years. The city celebrates this every year at the Cologne Carnival – an epic six-day party awash with colour. While the event takes place in November, there are attractions and activities galore all year round.

Riverside adventures

The Rhine is the longest river in Europe, and it flows straight through the heart of Cologne. It’s a central part of the city’s identity, with many attractions adorning its banks.

Start downstream at the Cologne Chocolate Museum, indulging your senses on a tour of chocolate-making history. For a more savoury option, the smaller and more rustic Mustard Museum is just behind.

Walk north along the banks, past waterfront parks and blooming gardens, towards the dark green arches of Hohenzollern Bridge. On one side you’ll see the Gothic spires of Cologne Cathedral looming large – on the other the modern KölnTriangle skyscraper will be gleaming in the sunshine. This one landscape provides the perfect contrast between medieval and modern architecture.

The banks of the Rhine are a pleasant place to be at all times of year. Open-air theatres and restaurants burst into action in the summer, and the twinkling lights of the Christmas market make it feel warm and cosy in the winter. Drop into Kölner Zoo to meet the resident elephants, and then drive onwards to the neighbouring city of Düsseldorf.

Old town curiosities

Cologne’s medieval streets pack in thousands of years of history, legend and intrigue. Close to the cathedral, the Heinzelmännchen fountain is carved with mythical gnomes which are said to come out and play under the cover of darkness.

If you’re around the Church of Great Saint Martin, you’ll stumble upon the bronze statues of Tünnes and Schäl – two much-loved puppet characters. Make sure you rub Tünnes’ nose for good luck.

Modern masterpieces

The star of the modern art scene in Cologne is Museum Ludwig, a contemporary gallery stands in the shadows of the cathedral. It’s filled with masterpieces by the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Hockney.

The art spills out into Cologne itself, with bedazzling street art to be found across the city. Pick up an art map from the tourist centre and hunt down the most prized murals covering entire buildings, and original Banksy pieces tucked away in the shadows.

Full-on feasting

Cologne cooks up a storm in the kitchen, with a mix of creative fusion foods and hearty traditional favourites.

Cologne’s Belgian Quarter is the thriving hub of the independent restaurant scene. Here you can slurp up Thai noodles, indulge in French favourites and feast on German classics – all within walking distance of the main urban squares.

Go all out by indulging at the city’s ever-growing list of Michelin-star restaurants. Cologne is the gastronomic Big Kahuna of Germany, where exquisite flavours, settings and service have won close to 20 of the prestigious stars between them. For the feast of a lifetime, head to Restaurant Vendôme on the eastern outskirts of the city. It’s headed up by Joachim Wissler, who has been voted the best chef in Germany.

Cologne is a city which marches to its own beat. Your time will run out before the fun stops – and you’ll soon be back for more. Whether you’re travelling on business or planning a romantic city break, explore it all with a hire car.