Outdoor cinema in Rheinauhafen

Looking for a unique summer evening out in Cologne? The outdoor cinema at Rheinauhafen is exactly what you need. This open air movie experience is one of the most special places you can go in the entire city. What makes it truly unforgettable is the gorgeous location right by the water with the famous Cologne Cathedral towering in the background. This is not just watching a film. This is a complete cinematic adventure that you will remember for years to come. In this guide, you will discover everything about visiting this wonderful venue. We will cover where it is located, what to expect, practical information for your visit, and answers to common questions.

What Is the Outdoor Cinema at Rheinauhafen?

The outdoor cinema in Rheinauhafen, officially called the Naturstrom Open Air Kino, is Cologne’s largest open air cinema venue. It sits in the modern Rheinauhafen harbour district along the banks of the Rhine River. The cinema is famous across the entire region, and visitors travel from far and wide to experience it.

The most striking feature is a massive screen that floats directly on the water in the harbour basin. You sit on wide stone steps right at the water’s edge. In front of you, the film plays on the floating screen. Behind the screen, the iconic Kölner Dom or Cologne Cathedral creates a breathtaking silhouette against the night sky. This is truly unlike any indoor cinema you have ever visited. The combination of the film, the water, the architecture, and the open sky creates an atmosphere that feels almost magical.

The venue can hold around 600 people seated on the harbour terrace steps. You can also hire comfortable deck chairs or traditional German Strandkörbe (cosy two person beach baskets) if you want extra comfort. The entire experience happens outdoors, so you will feel the summer evening breeze and breathe in the fresh air from the river.

Location and Getting There

Where is the Outdoor Cinema Located?

You will find the Naturstrom Open Air Kino at Harry Blum Platz 1 in the Rheinauhafen district of Cologne. The postcode is 50678. The Rheinauhafen itself is a modern urban renewal area that has transformed an old industrial harbour into a vibrant destination. Today it features stylish offices, residential apartments, cultural venues, restaurants, and a beautiful marina.

The area is known for its striking architecture. The three famous Kranhäuser or crane buildings are enormous structures that look like actual cranes. They were designed to remember the area’s industrial past. These buildings have become symbols of modern Cologne and appear in countless photographs.

How to Get There by Public Transport

Getting to the cinema by tram is simple and convenient. Take tram line 15 or 16 and get off at Ubierring. From the tram stop, it is only a short walk to reach Harry Blum Platz and the cinema. The walk takes about five minutes. Follow the signs for Rheinauhafen and you cannot miss it. Public transport is highly recommended as parking in the area can be difficult and expensive during summer evenings.

Walking Distance from the Cathedral

If you are staying near Cologne Cathedral, the walk to Rheinauhafen is pleasant and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You can stroll along the beautiful Rhine promenade the whole way. This walk itself is part of the Cologne experience and offers wonderful views of the river and city skyline.

The Venue: What to Expect

The Screen and Seating

The floating screen is absolutely enormous. It measures approximately 15 metres wide and 6.7 metres tall. When you sit in the audience, the screen fills your entire view. The image quality is excellent even in outdoor conditions. Everything is designed to give you the best possible viewing experience.

The venue has three different seating options. First, there are the wide stone steps of the harbour terrace. These steps are free to use and you can sit anywhere on them. You get the authentic outdoor cinema experience here. However, bring a cushion because stone can become uncomfortable after a while. The steps offer good views of the screen and plenty of space.

Second, there are comfortable deckchairs available for hire. These recline and provide proper back support. You can relax completely while watching your film. These chairs do cost extra money and popular sessions sell out quickly.

Third, the traditional Strandkörbe or beach baskets are available. These are two person seats that are cosy and enclosed. They are lined up in a special section and offer a premium experience. These also cost extra and include a minimum spend of 25 euros for food and drinks. You get to experience authentic German summer style with these baskets.

Opening Times and Film Start Times

The venue opens its doors at around 7 PM each evening. This gives you time to arrive, find a good seat, and get settled in. You can purchase snacks and drinks and chat with friends before the entertainment begins.

About 15 minutes before the main film starts, there is a pre programme. This features live performances from young musicians, comedians, or slam poets. These performances are free as part of your ticket and help build excitement for the film ahead.

The actual film starts when it gets dark. During summer months, this is usually between 8 PM and 10 PM depending on the exact date. Sunset times change throughout the summer season. The later it gets into August and September, the earlier it becomes dark.

The Film Programme

The cinema shows a wonderful mix of different types of films. You can watch recent blockbuster releases, classic films from decades past, arthouse films, documentaries, and much more. Many screenings feature travel documentaries which fit perfectly with the Rheinauhafen location.

The programme includes films in both German and English. German films might have English subtitles and English films might have German subtitles depending on the screening. Always check the programme online before booking to see language details.

Throughout the summer season, the cinema also hosts special themed evenings and events. These might include live music combined with a film, special performances by guest artists, or festivals dedicated to particular film genres or directors. There are often family friendly screenings during the day or early evening.

Snacks and Drinks

The cinema has an on site bar and food stands. You can purchase popcorn, pretzels, nachos, ice cream, and other typical cinema snacks. Cold drinks including beer, soft drinks, and cocktails are available. Hot drinks are also sold during cooler evenings.

The food and drink prices are standard cinema prices, so expect to pay a bit more than you would at a shop. However, the quality is good and the portions are generous. You can bring your own picnic in many cases, but check the rules online as this sometimes varies. Outside food is not always permitted so ask staff when you arrive.

Why Rheinauhafen’s Outdoor Cinema Is Special

The Unique Setting

No other cinema in Cologne offers what you get here. You are sitting outdoors right next to a river. The air feels fresh and cool as evening falls. You can smell the water and hear gentle sounds of the harbour around you.

The Cologne Cathedral is one of the most famous cathedrals in the entire world. Its two massive spires have been landmarks for centuries. At night, when the sun has fully set, the cathedral glows with subtle lighting. Its dark silhouette against the night sky creates an incredibly romantic backdrop to the film you are watching. Photographs taken here are absolutely stunning.

The Modern Harbour Surroundings

The Rheinauhafen represents modern Cologne. The area was completely redeveloped in recent decades. Where there used to be industrial shipping operations, there is now a vibrant cultural and residential district. The architecture is contemporary and striking. The Kranhäuser buildings are examples of thoughtful modern design.

Walking around Rheinauhafen before or after your film is worthwhile. There are restaurants, cafes, galleries, and shops to explore. You can combine your cinema visit with other activities. The famous ALAFF sign, a local symbol of Cologne carnival celebration, stands at Harry Blum Platz and makes a great photograph with the cathedral behind it.

The Atmosphere

Something magical happens when darkness falls at the outdoor cinema. Hundreds of people sit quietly together watching a film. The screen glows in the darkness. The cathedral glows nearby. The Rhine River flows silently past. Stars appear in the sky above. There is a sense of community and shared experience that feels special. This is a summer evening in Cologne at its very best.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

Arrive at the venue by 7 PM to get a good seat. This gives you an hour before performances begin. If you want a specific spot or a deckchair, arriving early is essential. Popular films on weekends fill up quickly.

Check the weather forecast before you go. Whilst light rain does not usually stop the show, heavy rain or storms may cause delays or cancellation. The best evenings are clear nights with temperatures around 18 to 22 degrees Celsius.

Weekday showings are generally less crowded than weekend showings. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday evening.

What to Bring

Bring a light jacket or cardigan even though it is summer. Evening temperatures by the river can be cooler than you expect. A blanket or scarf is useful if you are sitting on the stone steps.

Bring a cushion if you plan to sit on the steps. Even though the stone is not exactly uncomfortable, a cushion makes a huge difference to your comfort during a two hour film.

Bring a phone or camera for photographs. The sunset and the cathedral backdrop create beautiful photo opportunities. The ALAFF sign at the plaza is a popular spot for photos with the cathedral behind you.

If you are using a deckchair or beach basket, you may want to bring a light jumper to keep in your bag.

What Not to Bring

Do not bring large picnic baskets or coolers unless you have checked the rules first. The venue tries to keep the space uncluttered and orderly.

Do not bring bulky or loud items. The atmosphere depends on everyone respecting the shared space and keeping noise levels reasonable.

Do not expect to find an empty spot to sit if you arrive just before the film starts. The cinema fills up quickly, especially on weekends and for popular films.

Booking and Tickets

Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended. You can purchase tickets through the official website at openairkino.koeln. Online tickets cost 9.50 euros plus a small booking fee. Booking online guarantees your place and you do not have to worry about the show selling out.

Tickets purchased at the venue on the evening itself cost 11 euros. However, on busy nights, the cinema may have sold out by the time you arrive. Popular films and weekend showings often reach capacity.

If you want to hire a deckchair or Strandkorb, book this separately and in advance. These have limited availability and sell out first.

What About the Weather?

The outdoor cinema runs throughout the summer months regardless of minor rain. The screen and seats are designed to handle light to moderate rain. Staff will ask you to leave only if there is heavy rain or dangerous weather like thunderstorms.

Check the weather forecast before you go. If storms are predicted, the cinema may cancel the showing or delay it. Always check the venue’s social media or website on the day if weather looks uncertain.

Bring a light waterproof jacket or plastic rain cover just in case. Most visitors stay even during light rain because the film continues and the atmosphere remains special.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Explore the Rheinauhafen District

Spend time walking around the harbour before your film. The area is beautiful and worth exploring. The Kranhäuser buildings are worth photographing. You can see them from different angles around the plaza.

Several restaurants and cafes operate in the Rheinauhafen. You could have an early dinner before your cinema visit. The area becomes very busy during the cinema season so expect moderate crowds during evening hours.

Walk Along the Rhine Promenade

The Rhine promenade is one of Cologne’s finest walks. It stretches for several kilometres along the river. You can walk from the cathedral area all the way to Rheinauhafen. The views are lovely, especially as evening approaches.

Visit the Cologne Cathedral

If you have not yet visited Cologne Cathedral, it is just a 20 to 30 minute walk away. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important religious buildings in Europe. You can go inside to see the stunning interior with its high ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate stonework.