Cologne’s harbor district is a completely revitalized riverside complex that stands today as a vibrant and attractive neighborhood within the city.

Spanning 210,000 square meters, it sits along the banks of the Rhine—not far from the city center—and this corner of Cologne has quickly established itself as one of the city's most popular attractions.

The district features a blend of modern residential and office buildings, interspersed with numerous cafés, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors with a passion for architecture and culture will also find plenty of points of interest within Rheinauhafen.

The centerpiece is a trio of buildings known as the "Kranhäuser" (Crane Houses), which rise to a height of approximately 60 meters. Shaped like the historic cranes once used in the harbor, these structures serve as defining elements of the skyline on the western bank of the Rhine.

Continuing further toward the city center, you cross a swing bridge and arrive directly in front of the Chocolate Museum. Cologne’s most-visited museum draws food enthusiasts with an informative exhibition on the origins and history of cocoa, as well as a massive chocolate fountain where visitors can sample small pieces of the chocolate produced on-site.

Right next door stands the Deutsche Sport & Olympiamuseum (German Sports & Olympic Museum), which showcases centuries of sports history across more than 2,500 square meters. As is fitting for a sports museum, visitors are encouraged to get involved: the spectacular sports court located on the museum's rooftop offers a unique opportunity to work out while enjoying views of both the Rhine and the Cathedral.

Address

Im Zollhafen