Cologne (02 - 06 April 2026) 

Cologne & The Ruhr Sports Weekend

2 – 6 April 2026

Spring arrives on the Rhine — and with it, another unforgettable mix of football, hockey and culture in one of Germany’s most passionate sporting heartlands. From Bundesliga champions in action to gritty Ruhr derbies and VIP playoff hockey, this long weekend brings together the best of sport, local spirit and travel adventure.

What’s included (Itinerary subject to change depending on final fixture schedules)

• Arrival in Cologne on 2 April, where your EuropeAway hosts will welcome you and help you settle into your central hotel. The evening is yours — stroll along the Rhine, sample your first glass of Kölsch, and enjoy the laid-back buzz of one of Germany’s most welcoming cities.

• 3 April: Kick off the weekend in style with Bayer Leverkusen v VfL Wolfsburg. Just a short journey from Cologne, Leverkusen’s BayArena plays host to the reigning Bundesliga champions, offering top-level football and one of the most entertaining atmospheres in Germany’s top flight.

• 4 April: Head north into the Ruhr for one of the region’s most authentic fixtures — Rot-Weiss Essen v MSV Duisburg, the Pott-Derby. It’s grassroots passion at its best: two proud clubs, steeped in working-class history, facing off in a cauldron of noise, colour and local pride.

• 5 April: Time for ice, and in VIP style — Kölner Haie playoff hockey, VIP experience. Enjoy prime seats, pre-game hospitality and the electric energy of the Lanxess Arena as the Sharks battle it out for DEL playoff glory.

• Earlier in the day, join the Cologne City Adventure Tour & more, an engaging exploration of the city’s highlights — from the awe-inspiring Cathedral to hidden old-town gems and riverside spots. Discover the stories, humour and culture that make Cologne one of Germany’s friendliest and most characterful cities.

• 6 April: A relaxed final morning for sightseeing, souvenir hunting or one last coffee before departure.

• As always, EuropeAway provides centrally located 4★ accommodation, full match access, guided touring, and expert local hosts throughout your stay.

Why this trip?

• Champions in action: See Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning Bundesliga title-holders, live at the BayArena.

• Local passion: The Pott-Derby in Essen brings raw energy and authentic lower-league football at its finest.

• VIP hockey night: Kölner Haie playoff action with premium hospitality and the electric DEL playoff atmosphere.

• City culture: Cologne is full of life, humour and history — discover it with our expert guides.

• Seamless EuropeAway experience: Top fixtures, smooth travel, comfortable hotels and great company, all perfectly organised.

Who should join?

This weekend is ideal for travellers who want to experience the true heartbeat of German sport — from big-league brilliance to local derbies and the best fan atmospheres in Europe. Perfect for solo travellers, small groups and anyone seeking a balance of football, culture and fun.