Bastei

A striking Expressionist observation building of 1924 on the Rhine bank – a Riphahn design (dining currently closed).

Architecture Riverside Temporarily closed

The Bastei at the northern end of the Cologne Ring road is a striking observation building right on the Rhine bank. The Expressionist structure by Wilhelm Riphahn opened in 1924 as a panorama restaurant.

Source: Wikipedia · retrieved 2026-06-24

At a glance

Opened: 1924
Architect: Wilhelm Riphahn
Location: Rhine bank, Neustadt-Nord (at the Bastei)
Note: dining closed since 2019 due to structural defects

An icon on the Rhine

Built on the remains of an old fortress bastion, the Bastei – with its cantilevered glass rotunda – is considered one of the finest examples of Cologne Expressionism. From here there was a wide view over the Rhine. Restaurant operation is currently suspended; as a listed monument, however, the Bastei remains an impressive eye-catcher by the river.