Around 170 different rides await visitors this year. General Anzeiger sent out web reporter Michael Wrobel and Jana Henseler to test out a sampling of the rides. Since many of the vendors were still in action with their rides at other events, construction was delayed for some on the day before the official start.

Giant ferris wheel: This is the evergreen of all rides. It may not offer any surprises but it does give riders a beautiful view from 55 meters above the Rhineland. In good weather, you can even see the two spikes of the Cologne Cathedral on the horizon. One ride costs seven euros for adults and four euros for children.

Wilde Maus (Wild Mouse): The roller coaster is an integral part of Pützchens Markt. There are no upside down loops but it does have tight curves that push passengers to the limit and small hills that bounce them up and down. It’s a good first rollercoaster experience for the younger generations but also fun for people of all ages. The wild ride costs five euros for adults and for children under 1.4 meters, it is four euros.

Voodoo Jumper: Passengers ride two to a gondola, which turn in different directions and are launched upward and then dropped. It’s not an upside down experience but the free-fall effect gives that adrenaline kick. Everyone pays 4.50 euros, or four rides for 16 euros.

Booster Maxxx Mega G4: If you are looking for still more adrenaline, you will definitely find it here. But those who brave this ride should have a strong stomach. At the two ends of a 50-meter-high swing, riders are pressed into the seat with four times their own body weight. For a proper swirl in the sky, it will cost you six euros.

Predator: When just the “up and down” is not enough thrill, the Predator will turn you in all directions - almost simultaneously. Adrenaline is guaranteed on this one but make sure your last meal was a few hours back before you climb on board. One can even get nauseous just looking at it. A ticket will cost you five euros.

Kiddy Carousel: Of course there is a fitting ride for the youngest of visitors. Little ones can take a ride on the carousel for 2.50 euros, three rides for six euros or six rides for ten euros.

Nessy: The Nessy is about as legendary as the Wild Mouse. The huge ship swing gives riders a pleasant tingling sensation in the belly but doesn’t wreck havoc with the sense of balance - that kind of feeling you get on those upside down rides. For a ride with a good-natured sea monster, it will cost 3.50 euros. One can also purchase four tickets for twelve euros. (Orig. text: Katharina Weber, Translation: ckloep)