Gian Steinbusch
Phantasialand in Brühl, near Cologne, is one of the most popular theme parks in Germany and Europe. The park is especially well known for its immersive themed worlds and unique attractions. With over 30 rides and experiences, there’s something for everyone – young and old alike. But on particularly busy days, it’s hard to do everything. That’s why it’s all the more important to know which attractions are absolute must-dos. Here are the ones you definitely shouldn’t miss:
Talocan
Talocan has been turning heads in the Mexico area of Phantasialand since 2007. Built by Huss Rides, it remains the only Suspended Top Spin in Europe. What really makes this attraction stand out is its elaborate theming – with fire and water effects and an epic soundtrack that heightens the drama.
A word of advice: don’t face the weather god Tlaloc on an empty stomach – you’ll be spun through the air for over two minutes!
And if that’s too intense for you, don’t worry – Talocan also offers a viewing platform above the ride, providing a great view of the fiery spectacle.
Raik
At just 210 meters long, Raik is the shortest roller coaster at Phantasialand.
This Vekoma Family Boomerang opened in 2016 alongside the themed world of Klugheim in the Mystery area. At the time, it was the longest and fastest coaster of its type in the world.
What makes it special: the train is pulled backwards up a lift hill, then races forward through the station and track before being pushed backwards again through the entire layout. Short, sharp and surprisingly thrilling – perfect for families.
Winja’s Fear & Winja’s Force
Winja’s Fear and Winja’s Force are two indoor spinning coasters by Maurer Rides that have been twisting through the Wuze Town hall since 2002.
The two rides differ slightly in length, speed and ride elements. Winja’s Fear is the longer and faster one at 465 meters and 66 km/h, while Winja’s Force reaches 420 meters and 60 km/h.
Both coasters impress with unique features like tilting tracks, vertical lifts and creative layouts. A great pick for rainy days – though long wait times due to limited capacity can be a downside.
Chiapas
Since 2014, the water ride Chiapas has been a favorite on warm days. Built by the Swiss-Liechtenstein-based manufacturer Intamin Amusement Rides, it’s truly one of a kind.
Anyone expecting a typical log flume is in for a surprise: the ride features five levels, forward and backward sections, and winds through a highly detailed excavation site. Phantasialand itself calls Chiapas “the world’s most modern log flume.” Modern lifts, a high-speed switch track and the final 53-degree drop with a camelback hill make this ride something special.
Add to that a catchy soundtrack, impressive theming – and a party cave that’s pure earworm territory. On summer days, even water-shy guests should give it a try.
Mystery Castle
Mystery Castle has loomed over Phantasialand for nearly 30 years. This Bungee Drop Tower by Intamin opened in 1998 and, at 65 meters tall, remains the highest attraction in the park.
The experience starts long before the drop, as guests make their way through spooky castle corridors – a perfect build-up to what’s ahead.
Mystery Castle is widely considered one of the best freefall attractions in Europe. What happens inside? I won’t spoil it – just know this: adrenaline is guaranteed.
Black Mamba
One of the wildest rides in the park is undoubtedly Black Mamba – an inverted coaster from Swiss manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard. Riders hang below the track and fly through the deep jungle of the “Deep in Africa” area, which opened in 2006.
In just under 90 seconds, you’ll go upside down four times and race within inches of cliffs, waterfalls and other near-miss elements.
The 768-meter layout hits speeds of up to 80 km/h and pushes even experienced coaster fans with its rapid transitions and tight turns.
Thanks to recent upgrades to the themed area, Black Mamba is now also a visual highlight. Too intense? No problem – the ride is visible from various points around the area, or you can get up close on the Adventure Trail.
Colorado Adventure
This mine train coaster by Vekoma is one of the oldest operating rides in the park.
Since 1996, the former “Michael Jackson Thrill Ride” has been hurtling through the rocky Mexico landscape at up to 50 km/h – for nearly three full minutes. The runaway ghost train even enters two indoor sections, one of which is completely dark.
The ride’s appearance could use an update, but the ride experience itself is still a hit. Despite its somewhat bumpy track, Colorado Adventure remains one of Germany’s best family coasters.
F.L.Y.
F.L.Y. is Phantasialand’s newest coaster, opened in 2020 together with the steampunk-themed world of Rookburgh in the Berlin section of the park. It’s the world’s first flying coaster with launch propulsion – and, at 1,236 meters, also the longest flying coaster on the planet.
Even more impressive than the coaster tech is the immersive theming. Rarely do ride and environment blend as seamlessly as they do in Rookburgh. Every detail is spot-on – a level of theming that rivals Disney and Universal.
Two launches, two inversions, airtime moments and the unique flying position make F.L.Y. an unforgettable experience. Especially in the back rows, the ride can feel pretty intense – but that’s all part of what makes it a full-package adventure.
Taron
With a top speed of 117 km/h, Taron is the fastest coaster at Phantasialand.
This launch coaster by Intamin opened in 2016 as the centerpiece of the Klugheim area – alongside Raik. From a standing start, you’re launched onto a 1,320-meter-long track with countless twists and turns, a second, even stronger launch and a staggering 116 track crossings.
The ride darts past rocky cliffs, waterfalls and through the tightly packed village of Klugheim. Taron is a masterclass in combining speed, layout and theming.
About Phantasialand
Phantasialand opened in 1967 on the site of a former brown coal mine in Brühl, making it one of the oldest theme parks in Europe. What began as a fairy-tale forest evolved over the years into a fully-fledged theme park – and in many ways, Phantasialand was a pioneer in the European market.
Today, the resort includes not only the theme park, but also three themed hotels, several event locations and the acclaimed dinner show Fantissima.
Despite its relatively small footprint, Phantasialand welcomes over two million guests each year – making it one of the most visited theme parks in Europe.
Photos: 1953_photography
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