Best Rugby-Watching Venues In Cologne

Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is known for its buzzing atmosphere, charming Old Town, and tasty local brews. It is also a great place to watch rugby, whether it be at a local rugby club, a pub, or from the comfort of your own home. In this article, we will explore the best places to watch rugby in Cologne, including the top viewing spots, the best bars and pubs, and the online streaming platforms available. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking to catch the occasional game, read on to find out the best places to watch rugby in Cologne.

Irish pubs

While there don't seem to be any dedicated rugby bars in Cologne, there are a few Irish pubs that show rugby at least occasionally. According to a couple of sources, Jameson on Friesenstr. and Barney Vallely's near Alter Markt show rugby matches now and then. Another source also mentions Joe Champs, though they say that Jameson is the nicer of the two. If you're looking for company while watching the rugby, you could try reaching out to the local rugby club, Kölner Rugby Park, as they have viewing events for some matches.

Barneys Irish Pub

The pub has a cosy and authentic Irish atmosphere, with a cool island-style serving bar and big screens for live sports. It's a great place to unwind, catch up with friends, and enjoy a refreshing drink while watching your favourite rugby team. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that your glass is never empty.

Barneys offers a wide range of drinks, including chilled draught beers such as Guinness, Kilkenny, Hop House 13, Cider, Kölsch, and more. They also have a wide range of bottled beers, wine, soft drinks, whiskeys, spirits, and shots. The pub is highly rated for its perfect pints of Guinness, poured with care and allowed to settle, resulting in a dark, smooth, and creamy beverage.

In addition to rugby, Barneys shows a variety of live sports on their big screens throughout the year, including Premier League, Bundesliga, Champions League, and International Football, as well as GAA Football, Hurling, and Golf. The pub also regularly organises free live music gigs, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, Barneys Irish Pub is a welcoming spot to catch the latest rugby match and enjoy a refreshing drink in good company. Be sure to bring cash, as card payments are not always accepted.

Jamesons on Friesenstr

If you're looking for a place to watch rugby in Cologne, Jameson's on Friesenstr. is a great option. It's an Irish pub that shows rugby matches at least occasionally. While they may not show every rugby match, you can always give them a call to ask about specific games. Jameson's is known for its traditional Irish food, drinks, and music. The bar staff speak English, German, and Spanish, and the guests are from a variety of language backgrounds as well. The pub has a homely atmosphere, with friendly service and delicious, hearty food. You can enjoy dishes like fish and chips, stew, and burgers with a side of cold Guinness while watching the match.

Jameson's also hosts events like karaoke, live music, and pub quizzes, so there's always something going on. It's located in the heart of Cologne at Friesenstr. 30-40, and you can easily get there via public transport by getting off at Friesenplatz. If you're planning to go with a group, you can even book a table in advance.

So, if you're looking for a cosy, traditional Irish pub to catch the rugby game, Jameson's on Friesenstr. is an excellent choice. With its friendly atmosphere, tasty food, and variety of drinks, you're sure to have a great time. Don't forget to check with them about which matches they'll be showing, especially if there are concurrent football matches, so you don't miss out on the action!

Joe Champs

The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, including local beers and ciders, as well as a variety of cocktails and spirits. They also serve classic bar snacks and meals, such as burgers, wings, and fries, which you can enjoy while watching the game. Joe Champs is known for its friendly staff, who are always ready to accommodate requests and ensure patrons have an enjoyable experience.

The venue is spacious, with ample seating and standing room, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. The sound system is top-notch, allowing you to hear the commentary clearly, and the bar typically plays rugby-themed music during breaks and before the games, adding to the overall excitement.

For rugby enthusiasts, Joe Champs is a go-to destination, offering a vibrant and welcoming environment to catch all the rugby action. The bar often hosts special events and viewing parties for major rugby tournaments, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates the sport. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Joe Champs is the perfect place to enjoy a thrilling rugby match with fellow fans.

The Corkonian Irish pub

If you're looking for a place to watch rugby in Cologne, The Corkonian Irish Pub is a great option. This traditional Irish pub is known for showing a wide range of sports, including rugby. With a cosy atmosphere and a friendly crowd, it's a fantastic place to catch a game and enjoy a few drinks.

Located in the heart of the city, The Corkonian is easy to access and offers a welcoming environment for rugby enthusiasts. The pub is spacious, with plenty of seating options, ensuring you have a comfortable viewing experience. The staff are also known for being accommodating and happy to help, ensuring your visit is enjoyable.

The Corkonian has multiple screens strategically placed throughout the pub, so you can be sure you'll have a great view of the match from any angle. They show all the major rugby tournaments and competitions, ensuring you don't miss out on the action. The pub also has a vibrant atmosphere on match days, with patrons cheering on their favourite teams and celebrating the spirit of the game.

The food and drink offerings at The Corkonian are also worth mentioning. They have a well-stocked bar with a variety of beers, including Irish staples and local brews. The pub also offers a range of pub grub, including classic dishes, ensuring you can fuel up while enjoying the game.

If you're looking to watch rugby with a group of friends, The Corkonian is an excellent choice. The pub is spacious enough to accommodate groups, and the staff are happy to help with any special requests. They also have various events and promotions on match days, adding to the overall excitement.

Frequently asked questions