Cologne with kids

Experiencing Cologne with children is easy: the cathedral city offers a host of child-friendly activities and sights that make for an entertaining and educational stay. With the perfect mix of fun, learning and adventure, both children and parents will have a great time in the city on the Rhine. B&B HOTELS has put together the best excursions and activities in the city for you.

Culture and science for children

The suggestion to visit a museum is not always met with enthusiasm by children. You just have to choose the right one: The Odysseum is an interactive adventure museum where knowledge is imparted in a playful way. Numerous exciting experiments, games and activities combine fun and science. It is also home to the Museum with the Mouse, which is aimed at children aged 5 to 12. The Sun Garden is the perfect outdoor area where adults can relax while the little ones romp, climb or splash around in the water playground. Tickets can be purchased online here in advance.

But we are in Cologne! Even the children can't miss the impressive cathedral. Children aged 6 to 12 can take part in the guided tour “Cathedral for Sleuths” and discover Cologne Cathedral in a playful way. For about an hour, they will learn about the history of the imposing building, its special features, secrets and relics.

Recreational activities with kids

No matter what the weather is like outside, a visit to Aqualand is always worthwhile! The leisure pool is open from 9 am to 11 pm, so there is plenty of time to discover the adventure and sea salt grottos, the slides, the sauna world and the wellness oasis. A large paddling area with funny animals and great attractions lures children into the water. And the little water rats can even celebrate their birthdays here.

In Veedel Dünnwald there is a forest pool with various pools, water slides and a mini golf course. Lake Von-Diergardt is also very close by. There is also a knights' playground in Dünnwald - an absolute must for children who love knights' games and castles!

The city on the Rhine impresses many families with its numerous parks and green spaces. On the right bank of the Rhine, for example, is the Rheinpark with a great adventure playground and a fantastic view of Cologne's old town. This varied park landscape in the Deutz district is also home to the famous Rhine cable car.

The cable car is one of the most popular activities for anyone who wants to experience the city from a different perspective. The ride over the Rhine takes around six minutes and takes guests to the zoo on the left bank of the Rhine.

Animals and much more

Adventure farms are another popular excursion destination for families with children. In Cologne and the surrounding area, you can experience nature and learn about farming in a fun way. Christinenhof has a petting zoo, Gertrudenhof has a special area for nature and environmental education and Wilhelmshof offers activities such as animal care, horse riding, gardening and nature exploration. The offer is varied and mostly free of charge. A real adventure for young and old.

There are even more animals to discover at Lindenthaler Tierpark. It can be reached from Rudolfplatz in the city center in just 10 minutes by train. Admission is free. The park is currently home to around 26 fallow deer, 25 goats, highland cattle, sheep, peacocks and donkeys. Wild boar and red deer, on the other hand, can be observed in the wildlife enclosure in Leidenhausen.

To see exotic animals such as elephants, monkeys or anteaters, a trip to Cologne Zoo should be on the agenda. There are also various events such as air shows, the China Light Festival and lectures. Children's birthday parties can also be celebrated here. Tickets and further information can be found online here.

A day trip like in a fairy tale

The Altenberg Fairytale Forest is located around 30 kilometers north-east of Cologne. It is actually a large forest where children can discover Grimm's fairy tales and where pets are also welcome on a lead. On the fairytale trail through the Bergisches Land, you can learn more about the mythical creatures and the stories of the various fairytale characters from the Brothers Grimm, who are waiting for you in their little houses. A walk through the illuminated fairytale forest is also worthwhile in winter. The perfect excursion into a magical world and a wonderful day out in the fresh air.

Cologne regularly hosts child-friendly events, such as carnival parades, street festivals or special programs in museums or parks that are specially tailored to younger visitors. Find out more and enjoy your stay!