A modern, well-maintained DJH youth hostel in the Riehl district of Cologne, offering dormitory and private rooms. Excellent transport links to the city centre and a popular choice for budget travellers and school groups.
Jugendherberge Köln-Riehl is an official DJH (Deutsches Jugendherbergswerk — German Youth Hostel Association) property located at An der Schanz 14 in the Riehl district of Cologne (Köln), North Rhine-Westphalia. The hostel sits on the western bank of the Rhine in a quieter residential and zoological district north of the city centre, offering a welcome contrast to the bustle of the old town while remaining well connected to central Cologne by tram and U-Bahn from the nearby Boltensternstraße stop.
The Riehl location is particularly convenient for visitors to the Kölner Zoo, one of Germany's oldest and most visited zoological gardens, and the adjacent Flora botanical gardens — both an easy walk from the hostel entrance. The Rheinpark, a large riverside leisure area on the opposite bank of the Rhine, is accessible by ferry. Despite being set back from the tourist core, Cologne Cathedral, the old town, and the Hohenzollern Bridge are reachable by public transport in around 15 to 20 minutes.
The hostel is a modern, well-maintained facility offering both mixed and single-gender dormitory rooms alongside private twin and family rooms, catering to the full range of budget travellers from solo backpackers to school groups and families. On-site facilities include free Wi-Fi throughout, a café serving hot and cold meals, a shared kitchen for self-catering, and laundry facilities — all essentials for guests on extended stays. The hostel is a popular destination for organised school trips and youth travel, particularly during summer and German school holiday periods.
As an official DJH property, guests are required to hold membership of the German Youth Hostel Association or an affiliated international organisation. Temporary membership can be purchased at reception. Check-in times and evening quiet hours are enforced, which is worth noting for guests with late arrivals or those seeking a lively late-night atmosphere.
Amenities
- wifi
- shared kitchen
- café
- laundry
Location
An der Schanz 14, 50735 Köln
50.9652, 6.9627 View on map
Highlights
- Official DJH Youth Hostel in Cologne's Riehl district, close to the Kölner Zoo and Rhine riverbank
- Dormitory and private room options for solo travellers, groups, and families
- Shared kitchen and laundry facilities for self-catering and extended stays
- Well connected to Cologne's city centre by tram and U-Bahn in under 20 minutes
- Budget-friendly rates within the trusted DJH quality framework
Tips for visiting
- DJH membership (or an international Youth Hostel Association card) is required; temporary membership can be purchased at check-in for a small surcharge
- Arrive within the official check-in window — particularly important for large groups, who will need extra time for administration
- The Kölner Zoo and Flora botanical gardens are walking distance and highly recommended for a morning break from city sightseeing
- Cologne Carnival (Karneval) in late February or early March is a peak period; book several months in advance as the hostel fills quickly
- The hostel has enforced quiet hours in the evenings — it is not suited to guests seeking a social late-night environment
Accessibility
Jugendherberge Köln-Riehl is a modern building with lift access to upper floors, providing reasonable accessibility for guests with limited mobility. Accessible rooms with adapted facilities are available. Guests with specific requirements should contact the hostel in advance to confirm room availability and any additional access arrangements.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is DJH membership required to stay?
Yes, DJH membership is required for all guests. International visitors can use their national Youth Hostel Association card; those without one can purchase a temporary DJH membership at reception for a small fee.
Are private rooms available, or is it dormitory-only?
Both dormitory beds and private rooms — including twin and family configurations — are available, subject to availability and advance booking.
How far is the hostel from Cologne Cathedral?
The hostel is approximately 6–7 kilometres from Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), reachable in around 15–20 minutes by tram or U-Bahn from the nearby Boltensternstraße stop.
Is self-catering possible at the hostel?
Yes, a shared guest kitchen is available for self-catering, alongside an on-site café serving hot and cold meals throughout the day.
Is the hostel suitable for families with children?
Yes, the hostel offers family rooms and is well-suited to families, particularly given its walking distance from the Kölner Zoo and proximity to the Rheinpark.