In the heart of Germany’s most important economic area,
Cologne is a metropolis within a metropolis: The city is a driving force for innovation, a hub for IT, an engine for the automotive industry and a premium location for biotech, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The city on the Rhine is also home to numerous renowned companies from the furniture, food, retail, e-commerce, services and logistics sectors. Cologne serves as a birthplace and hub for thousands of companies – from start-ups and small businesses to global corporations in the heart of a renowned media and university landscape.
Science and media
Cologne is also an outstanding science and business location. It is home to numerous large corporations, universities, research institutes and media companies. With over 100,000 students at its 24 public and private universities, Cologne is the third largest university location in Germany. 12 research institutes are located in Cologne. These include four Max Planck Institutes. Astronauts are prepared for their journeys into space at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the European Space Agency (ESA). As a media metropolis, Cologne is home to major television stations including WDR and RTL, numerous production companies, several radio stations and over 70 publishing houses.
A convenient location with excellent connections
Cologne is also characterised by its outstanding accessibility from all over the world. For 180 million Europeans, Cologne is no more than an hour’s flight away. Three international airports (CGN, DUS, FRA) are easily and quickly accessible with direct ICE train connections to Cologne. In just 14 minutes, visitors and exhibitors can reach the city from Cologne Bonn Airport, which connects Cologne with 27 airlines and 120 destinations. The journey from Düsseldorf and Frankfurt takes about an hour. Cologne is an important rail hub with 1,300 daily train connections and provides fast access to the European capitals.
The city is also exceptionally easy to reach by car via its nearby motorway network. The trade fair grounds offer ample parking with around 1,000 parking spaces, supplemented by up to 7,500 additional parking spaces in the vicinity of Koelnmesse.
Within Cologne, a well-developed public transportation network including buses and trains ensures uncomplicated mobility. The city centre can be reached from the trade fair grounds on foot or in just a few minutes by train or car.
This comprehensive transport infrastructure makes Cologne an outstanding location for international congresses, trade fairs and events.
