Best Landmarks in Cologne Germany

Hohenzollernbrücke, 50667 Köln, Germany

The Hohenzollern Bridge stands as one of Cologne’s most recognisable and beloved landmarks, spanning the Rhine River with dramatic elegance. Constructed between 1907 and 1911, this magnificent steel structure was inaugurated by Emperor Wilhelm II and named after the House of Hohenzollern, the Prussian royal family. Originally designed for railway and road traffic, the bridge now serves as a vital railway connection and pedestrian crossing linking Cologne’s main station to the Deutz district. Its most distinctive feature is the thousands upon thousands of love locks adorning its railings, a contemporary symbol of romance that has captured hearts globally. The bridge endured World War II better than other Cologne structures but was deliberately demolished in 1945 by German forces. It was painstakingly rebuilt and fully operational by 1959. Today it remains Germany’s busiest railway bridge, handling over 1200 trains daily whilst welcoming countless pedestrians seeking stunning views of the cathedral and Rhine.