Sitting on the banks of the Rhine, Cologne, at 2,000 years old, is one of the oldest cities in Germany and is best known for the Gothic wonder that is Cologne Cathedral. But in addition to this architectural masterpiece, Cologne is a place where the avant-garde rubs shoulders with the ancient and postmodern art meets traditional beer halls and Roman relics.
Cologne, Germany, is a charismatic city surrounded by some of the most stunning natural features Germany has to offer. Hire your campervan or motorhome from Cologne and head towards snow-capped mountain ranges or sun-drenched beaches.
Cologne is the perfect starting point to begin your campervan adventure. From here, you can stroll along the Rhine River, hop in your campervan or motorhome hire, and uncover rich forests, rushing streams, and towering mountain ranges. Add some distinctive cuisine and fairytale castles, and you've got a recipe for an unforgettable campervan road trip.
With over 16 national parks across Germany, you will have miles of wilderness to explore outside your campervan. All you need to do is step on the gas and go!
Just an hour's drive from Cologne sits Eifel National Park. With sparkling volcanic lakes and twisting cherry tree groves, this incredible park is sure to amaze you. Continue heading east in your campervan hire, and you'll cross over into the Netherlands and then Belgium . Here you'll have the opportunity to discover the towering pine trees of Hoge Kempen National Park or spot bashful wildlife at De Meinwig National Park.
If, instead, you decide to continue the campervan road trip south . Here, you'll encounter the rugged peaks and clear glacial lakes of the German Alps in Berchtesgaden National Park, located in the Bavarian Region ; You'll also be able to gaze across swooping valleys and old-world forests.
We recommend adding Saxon-Switzerland, Jasmund, Muritz, and Black Forest National Park to your list of natural wonders worth a stop to continue your wild adventure.
Cologne is based on the Rhine River, offering your motorhome itinerary miles of waterfront access. Hike, bike, and swim in the refreshing waters of the Rhine River. Camping and recreation are easily accessible the further you move from the city.
Cologne is also near some of the most stunning baltic beaches Germany has to offer. Drive your campervan or motorhome hire north to the sun-drenched city of Lubeck to experience a bustling coastline and gothic landmarks. Take a sunset boat tour or indulge your inner history buff on Usedom Island–home to white sand beaches known to sing.
Explore the loop between Cologne and Dusseldorf and discover Waldensee and Sander Baggersee. These two phenomenal options for a freshwater adventure are located just over two hours outside Cologne.
An established place to park your campervan or motorhome hire is essential when travelling throughout Germany, as wild camping is not allowed everywhere. Park your motorhome hire riverside at Liblarer See Campsite or opt for something more rural at Campingplatz-Felsenblick, near Eifel National Park. Enjoy waterfront access in your campervan hire at RNC Leecher See campground, just outside the city of Cologne.
Many German national parks offer suggestions for visitors. Accommodation lists can be found on the specific national parks' websites, along with details about availability and amenities.
For more information and inspiration about travelling from Cologne across Germany, check out our road trip section .
With over 2.000 years of history, Cologneis a historical crossroad for travellers. Add your legendary story to its history when you hire a campervan or motorhome from Cologne and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.