Alter Wartesaal

Über diesen Ort Alter Wartesaal

Alter Wartesaal — the Old Waiting Room — occupies one of the most dramatically located venues in German nightlife: a 19th-century railway station waiting hall directly adjacent to Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), with the cathedral visible from the entrance. The building's high ceilings, original architectural details and sheer improbability make it unique among gay clubs in Europe. Three floors operate on major nights, each with distinct musical programming. The main floor's Saturday night is the flagship commercial gay event in Cologne. During CSD week in July — when 1.2 million people come to Cologne — Alter Wartesaal hosts events that are among the highest-attended club nights in Germany. The location directly at the central station means accessibility is unmatched: you can arrive by train from Frankfurt, Düsseldorf or Berlin and be in the club within 10 minutes of stepping off the platform. For CSD 2026, buy tickets months in advance — events sell out.