Ehrenfeld, Cologne, is famous for its street art and graffiti including works depicting Nazi atrocities and modern ethical dilemmas. Some of the street art can be credited to well-known artists, while others have been painted by amateur geniuses.
We thought that Ehrenfeld, a borough of Köln (Cologne), would just be a short stop during our day in the city but we ended up spending hours wandering around its colourful streets and corners!
Flea markets full of great deals, delicious food and peppy music are a regular fixture in Ehrenfeld, as are picturesque al fresco restaurants and boutique shops. But what drew us to this historic district is its reputation for edgy street art emblazoned on its walls and bahnhof (station) environs.
We also stayed for the quiet, leafy streets marked by industrial edifices sporting mysterious graffiti, with the Helios Lighthouse and Colonious telecommunications tower looming in the backdrop.
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Street Art at Ehrenfeld, Cologne
Ehrenfeld has a different vibe from the rest of Cologne. You can instantly sense the hipster atmosphere, and by night, the suburb comes alive with night clubs and bars. But interesting murals by Faith47, Sepe & Chazme, and INTI are Ehrenfeld’s real claim to fame. As far as local talent is concerned, Captain Borderline and Huami have earned a name for themselves.
Apart from Ehrenfeld Bahnhof, the main spots to see street art in Ehrenfeld include the walls of Burgerzentrum Ehrenfeld and Venloer Straße. The area around the old Helios lighthouse is also full of artworks. Look out for stunning artwork on building facades such as Stapelbar.
Flea Markets in Ehrenfeld
On one or two weekends during the month, Ehrenfeld hosts a lively flea market called Nachtkonsum. The evening market regales visitors with vintage items, live music, and lots of food and drink from 5 to 11 PM.
Things to Do in Ehrenfeld
Ehrenfeld is home to Neptunbad, a Japanese thermal spa with saunas and pools. Enjoy coffee and cake at Cafe Sehnsucht, named after the fascinating German word for ‘wistful longing’. You can even play 3D mini golf at Glowing Rooms, and visit the modernistic Cologne Central Mosque. And if you like cemeteries, pay a visit to Melatenfriedhof.
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How to Reach Ehrenfeld
Take any train or tram to Ehrenfeld bahnhof. The streets are best explored on foot or by bicycles. Other things to do in Ehrenfeld include visiting the Melatonfriedof cemetery, the Cologne Central Mosque and Neptunbad Spa.
What do you think of street art as a form of artistic expression? Leave a comment and let us know!
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What a great post. Ehrenfeld is now on my list for next time I’m in Germany. Thank you.
Glad you liked it, Carmel. 🙂
Gorgeous images and paintings do wonder to the aesthetic senses. Wow!
Wow! color full wall and amazing place to visit.
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