Our favorite cult places in Cologne
You know when you're in a place and you immediately get that "Oh yes, I've been here before" feeling? Places that don't try to be anything - because they already are. That don't need to change much because they are just right the way they are. Just like Vitamalz: it used to be the number one drink as a child - and still tastes just as good today as it did back then. We took a stroll through Cologne's eternal classics for you. Places with cult status, charm and character - and a few nostalgic vibes on top.
Lohserampe - skating under trees
The most famous ramp in Cologne is located in the middle of the countryside. The Lohserampe is a real skate mecca - and even if you don't skate yourself, it's worth a visit. Vibes like in an open-air theater, skaters, music and an annual ramp festival that really pops. And the best thing? Everything is open to the public, everything is free.
Kolbhalle - Ehrenfeld's creative oasis
Colorful, wild and chaotic from the outside - even better from the inside. The Kolbhalle has been home to free art, creative minds and pretty good parties for over 30 years. There are studios, exhibitions, performances - and always the feeling that anything is possible. Ehrenfeld, the way we love it! 🤝
Cologne cable car - High above the Rhine
Climb aboard, take off and see the world from above. The cable car has been taking you across the Rhine since 1957 - with a view of the cathedral, the old town and your life as it continues below. It may be a little wobbly, but that's what makes it special. And yes, we admit it: a cold Vitamalz before the ride (or as a reward afterwards) makes the whole thing even better. Cheers from the gondola!
Old fire station - in the middle of the city, in the middle of life
An inner courtyard to linger in, a stage for culture, a wall for graffiti - and the best flea market in the city. The Alte Feuerwache is a meeting place for anyone who wants to make a difference or simply relax and take a deep breath. This is where the real Cologne pulsates - calm, warm and full of ideas.
Underdog Records - Vinyl rules
A store full of records and passion. Since 1997, the Underdog on Hansaring has been supplying you with the finest guitar music - from punk to indie to hardcore. Here you can browse, find treasures and chat with people who feel the same way about music as you do. And because music and malt are an unbeatable duo, treat yourself to a Vitamalz on the bench in front of the store afterwards.
Carlswerk site - industry meets culture
Formerly cables, now concerts. At Carlswerk Mülheim you can experience theater, chill out in the Carlsgarten or start the weekend at Club Volta. The perfect mix of raw scenery and a good time - and simply unbeatable in summer with a cool drink in your hand.
Steffis Büdchen - pure Südstadt
The door opens here at six in the morning - and then it's all systems go. Steffi has been selling drinks, stories and good humor in Annostraße for over 35 years. If you want to understand Cologne, stop by here. Our tip: grab a Vitamalz, take a little small talk with you - and then take a leisurely stroll to the Rhine. Tried and tested, simply good and so Südstadt.
Vitamalz - tastes like the old days, fits today
To be honest: Vitamalz never went away. It was just waiting patiently for you. Whether it's after skating, while browsing records or as a drink in a bar - the mix of sweet, tangy and "reminds me of the old days" feeling simply goes perfectly with everything that is cult today.
Some things don't go out of fashion because they've never been fashionable - they've simply always been good. Vitamalz is one of them. And Cologne has more than enough places that revive this feeling. So: chill the Vitamalz, pack your friends and head out. From the Lohserampe to the cable car - and finish off with a last toast at Steffi's kiosk in Südstadt before heading down to the Rhine at sunset.
Cult remains cult. 😉