Quick ride by bicycle from Frechen to Riehl

This ride takes you from Frechen, a cozy town just west of Cologne, to the vibrant Riehl district on the banks of the Rhine. You’ll cover about 19 km—perfect for a half-day outing. The route is mainly on quiet paths (about 86%) and is predominantly paved, though you’ll hit a few stretches of paving stones and some gravel. Expect a gentle ride with a little over 30 meters of ascent, mostly flat and relaxing, making it suitable for most bikes.

Heading out from Frechen, you’ll pass through some green pockets and suburban neighborhoods before rolling closer to Cologne. Watch out for that transition as you approach Riehl—it’s known for its nearby zoo and the riverside parks, so it’s well worth taking a longer break at the end. Overall, this is a chilled ride with minimal traffic, making it a solid option if you’re looking to escape city bustle and enjoy some classic Rhineland scenery.