The Green Rubble-Hill Tour

The “Grüne Schuttberg Runde” connects urban Cologne with expansive parklands—and offers a special historical touch. The route runs for about 8.5 kilometers through the Inner Green Belt, the green corridor surrounding the city center. Two climbs up Cologne’s rubble hills—formed from the ruins of World War II—offer a mild athletic challenge while also providing sweeping views of the city.

The route runs through the Inner Green Belt and takes in the Stadtgarten as well as August Sander Park, which leads up to Herkulesberg. From the hill, the loop leads back into the Inner Green Belt. Despite its central location, you’ll be walking through green spaces for much of the way—joined by joggers, walkers, and people using the park for an active break or recreational activities.

You can start the route at any of several points, such as the “Historisches Archiv,” “Zülpicher Straße,” “Universitätsstraße,” or “Hans-Böckler-Platz/Bf West” stops. A varied loop for anyone who wants to discover Cologne on foot or by hiking while combining nature, exercise, and the city’s history.