Koeln, Germany May 17th 2026
Source: https://www.rundumkoeln.de/en/
The Rund um Köln (Around Cologne) is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious one-day cycling classics. In 2026, the event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 17.
The event is unique because it combines a high-level UCI professional race with a massive “Granfondo” (amateur) event, allowing hobby cyclists to ride on the same roads as the pros.
📅 Event Details
- Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
- Location: Start and finish at Rheinauhafen, Cologne.
- The Expo: The “Bike.EXPO” will be held on Harry-Blum-Platz from May 16–17, featuring equipment, nutrition, and lifestyle exhibitors.
🚵 The Races
The event offers different distances to cater to various skill levels:
- Pro Race: A UCI Europe Tour (Class 1.1) elite race covering roughly 200 km through the hilly Bergisches Land region.
- Velodom 120: The long-distance amateur race (approx. 125 km) for ambitious riders.
- Velodom 60: A shorter version (approx. 70 km) for those looking for a shorter challenge.
- Velodom 30: A recreational road tour designed for beginners and casual enthusiasts.
- Pänz Tour: A special balance bike race for children on the final 100 meters of the pro finish line.
🗺️ The Route Highlights
The course is famous for its “hilly and diversified” nature. Key features include:
- Bergisches Land: Riders leave the city for the surrounding hills, which feature short, punchy climbs.
- Schloss Bensberg: The most iconic part of the race is the cobblestone climb leading up to Bensberg Castle, where crowds typically gather to cheer on the riders.
- Rhine Finish: The race concludes with a spectacular sprint finish back in the heart of Cologne at the Rhine River.
🎟️ How to Participate
Registration for the amateur races typically opens in the preceding autumn (November 2025). If you are planning to attend as a spectator, the best spots are usually at the Schloss Bensberg climb or the finish line at Rheinauhafen.
