Nature & greenery – Cologne

Cologne is surrounded by greenery. From native copses and unspoilt areas where game roams free to tranquil spots for relaxation and places where you can actively experience nature, there is no shortage of leisure facilities in the beautiful surrounding countryside.

Cologne Zoo and Aquarium

Colognes Animal Kingdom

Cologne Zoo is home to more than 500 species from all continents and oceans of the world. Experience the elephants in the new ELEFANTENPARK, which is the largest elephant enclosure north of the Alps. Meet our closest relatives face to face inside the Urwaldhaus for great apes. Feel the heat and humidity of the jungle in the south-east Asian REGENWALD. Dive into the world of coral-reefs and cichlids and let yourself be fascinated with the varieties of reptiles, amphibians and insects. For fascinating glimpses of nature at any time of year visit the arboretum with its Japanese section, the impressively laid out Flora "garden monument" with its incredible variety of plants, and, right next door, the hothouses of the botanical garden. To round of the picture Cologne Zoo offers great gastronomy for the whole family as well as a unique ZOOvenir store.

Rheinpark Cologne

This beautiful downtown Cologne park was originally planned for the 4th federal gardening show back in 1957 and  still remains almost unchanged but renovated and renewed.  The Rheinpark is a unique example of German landscape gardening art of the fifties. Some highights are te beautiful rose garden as well as the unique fountains. The location adds to the overall impression: On the left bank of the river Rhine visitors view the city's stunning silhouette including the Cathedral. The Rheinpark also offers playgrounds and mini trains for the kids. You can even cross the Rhine with a cable car connectng Rheinpark and Cologne Zoo on the other side of the river. In 2007, Rheinpark Cologne was elected Germany's most beautiful park. In the same year it was even elected the number two park in Europe.

Flora

The incredible variety of plants, their significance for horticulture, technology, nutrition and for the construction and textile industry - these are the themes of the gardens in the north of Cologne, generally referred to as the "Flora". Originally two separate gardens, the "Flora" is now one large park featuring a "garden monument" and a botanical garden.