Sweet history in Bonn: visiting the home of Haribo

Visit Bonn, the birthplace of Haribo, and explore the sweet history, from the flagship city-centre shop to the sprawling factory outlet, perfect for gummy enthusiasts.

This article was updated in March 2026 to add more detail, opening hours and nearby attractions.

Shopping on Am Neutor

Walking along Am Neutor in Bonn, it is easy to assume this is just another upmarket shopping street. Boutiques sell velvet jackets, glittery dresses suitable for the concert hall, and finely crafted silver and porcelain.

Then the tone shifts. In the middle of it all stands a brightly coloured temple to jelly sweets: the Haribo store in Bonn. Compared with its refined neighbours, it is larger, louder and – to many – far more appealing.

The flagship Haribo store in Bonn, Germany.
The flagship Haribo store in Bonn, Germany.

The rise of Haribo in Bonn

While Australia has its Natural Confectionery Company and Allen’s Lollies, the undisputed global leader is Haribo from Germany. Known as the “king of cola bottles” and the brand behind the jelly snake phenomenon, Haribo has been selling sweet treats to children and adults for more than a century.

Few visitors realise that this empire began in Bonn. In 1920, confectioner Hans Riegel started a small operation here with little more than a kettle, a roller, a sink and a sack of sugar. He named the company Haribo by combining the first letters of his first name, surname and the city of Bonn.

From dancing bears to Gold Bears

The breakthrough came in 1922 when Riegel created his first “dancing bears” – fruit-flavoured gummy sweets. By the 1960s, these had evolved into the brand’s most famous product: Haribo Gold Bears.

But the company’s success lies not in one sweet, but in variety. Before visiting Bonn, many people think only of Starmix or Supermix. Step inside the flagship store and you discover hundreds of different creations, many available only in limited editions.

Exploring the flagship Haribo store

Spread across two levels, the Haribo shop in Bonn is a paradise for anyone who considers jelly sweets an acceptable afternoon snack. Among the shelves you might find:

  • Cruise Mix: all in the shape of ships
  • Brumbasser: black and yellow bees
  • Exotic Gums: fruity flavours from tropical fruits
  • Drama Lamas: a quirky mix of llamas and cacti
  • Coala Tatzen: cola-flavoured koala paw prints, a nod to Australia

For picky eaters, there are also bags containing only one flavour or colour. Whether your weakness is the red or the green ones, you can indulge exclusively.

The Haribo factory outlet in Bonn

If the city-centre shop feels like a carnival of sugar, the Haribo factory outlet in Godesberg North – 6.5km from central Bonn – is even more overwhelming.

Here, shelves are stacked high like a discount supermarket. But instead of fruit and vegetables, every aisle is filled with Haribo products. Shoppers push trolleys, loading up with tubs and giant bags that are far bigger than the standard family size.

It is a spectacle in itself, offering prime opportunities for people-watching. And if you leave with a jumbo bag of Haribo sweets shaped like German monuments, so much the better.

Haribo store Bonn: Opening hours, prices, parking & visitor tips

Planning a visit to the Haribo store in Bonn? This guide covers opening hours, product pricing, parking, accessibility and how to get there.

First time visiting Haribo store Bonn? This guide covers opening hours, prices, parking, accessibility, and how to get there.

About the Haribo store Bonn

The Haribo store in Bonn sits close to the company’s headquarters and factory, making it a convenient stop for those interested in Germany’s best-known confectionery brand.

Haribo was founded in 1920 in Bonn, and the factory shop reflects that local heritage. It attracts both tourists and residents looking to buy sweets in bulk or pick up exclusive items.

The shop itself is a straightforward retail space rather than a visitor centre or museum. There are no guided tours or production views, but the appeal lies in the variety and pricing.

Many visitors combine the stop with a wider trip around Bonn, as the store is located slightly outside the historic centre but still within easy reach by car or public transport.

Haribo store Bonn opening hours

Standard opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm
  • Saturday: 9am to 4pm
  • Sunday: Closed

Opening hours can vary on public holidays, so it is advisable to check before visiting.

Haribo store Bonn prices

There is no entry fee to visit the Haribo store.

Product pricing varies depending on size and type, but the key feature is value:

  • Large bags and bulk boxes are typically cheaper than supermarket prices
  • Factory seconds (slightly misshapen sweets) are often sold at a discount
  • Exclusive mixes and seasonal items are available

Expect to pay a few euros for small bags, with larger bulk options offering better value per kilogram.

How to get to the Haribo store Bonn

Address: Am Neutor 3, 53113 Bonn, Germany

The store is located just outside Bonn city centre.

  • By car: Around 1 mile from Bonn city centre
  • By tram: Nearest stops are within walking distance
  • By train: Bonn Hauptbahnhof is approximately 1 mile away

Parking at the Haribo store Bonn

On-site parking is available near the store.

Spaces are limited during busy periods, particularly weekends and holidays. Additional parking can be found in nearby streets or public car parks.

Accessibility at the Haribo store Bonn

The store is generally step-free and accessible for wheelchair users.

Aisles are wide and easy to navigate, although it can become crowded at peak times.

What to expect at the Haribo store Bonn

The Haribo store is primarily a retail outlet rather than an attraction with exhibits.

Inside, you will find:

  • Bulk bins of sweets
  • Pre-packaged bags
  • Seasonal and limited-edition products
  • Discounted factory items

It is best approached as a quick stop rather than a long visit.

Nearby attractions

  • Beethoven House: Around 1 mile away
  • Bonn Minster: Around 1 mile away
  • Haus der Geschichte: Around 2 miles away
  • Rheinaue Park: Around 3 miles away
  • Drachenfels: Around 7 miles away

Practical tips for visiting the Haribo store, Bonn

  • Visit earlier in the day for smaller crowds
  • Bring a bag if planning to buy in bulk
  • Check opening hours before travelling
  • Allow 20–30 minutes for a typical visit
  • Combine with central Bonn attractions to make the trip worthwhile

Haribo store, Bonn visitor information

Is there an entry fee for the Haribo store Bonn?No, entry is free.
What are the Haribo store Bonn opening hours?Typically 9am to 6pm (Mon–Fri) and 9am to 4pm (Sat), closed Sundays.
Is there parking at the Haribo store Bonn?Very limited nearby parking is available, but don’t count on it.
How long should you spend at the Haribo store Bonn?Most visits last 20–30 minutes.
Is the Haribo store Bonn suitable for children?Yes, but it is a shop rather than an attraction with activities.

Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. Book through them, and I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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