Cologne , Germany

The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour

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(270 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our tour is a special look at what makes Cologne's Kölsch culture so special. While being led by our enthuasiastic guides, who double as passionate Kölsch consumers, you'll get more than just an idea of the beer, but also an idea of what makes Cologne tick behind the scenes and why our beer and our people are tied together.

On the Legendary Kölsch Tour, you'll experience the best our beer, our stories and the people that made them possible.

Available options

Die legendäre Kölschtour

The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour

El Legendario Tour de Cerveza

3 Kölsch Tastings

The Legendary Kölsch Sundays

3 Kölsch

What's included

Included on our tour is a Kölsch at three of the breweries we visit.

Detailed itinerary

Here we will meet to begin our tour with a brief introduction and a summary of the day's plan! Get to know your fellow guests and get ready to start your journey into Kölsch.

The second stop of our tour!

We’ll begin our journey into beer tasting here as well with our first Kölsch of the evening, learning about the traditions of Cologne’s beers and the rules associated with drinking it. We’ll also learn about more about the famous brewery where the Mühlen Kölsch is brewed and which famous American became part of its story.

A little information on our most famous square and it's surroundings!

Our last stop of the evening, at this bierhaus, we will drink our last Kölsch of the night (or the first of many at our last brewery). Following a tasting of the Päffgen Kölsch, we’ll decide our favorites and learn about the folk hero of beer that oversees the bar.

On our second stop of the evening, you’ll have the chance to sample what by many is considered the oldest Kölsch in Cologne. Here we’ll learn about the strict brewing process that created our beer, the regulations it still must follow and follow the debate over who is allowed to even brew a Kölsch in the first place.

It would be a wasted trip to Cologne’s Old Town if we didn’t explore a little of its bizarre and interesting history. We’ll tell a few anecdotes about the past of Cologne to give you a better feel of how we are (and always have been) as a city.

A brief look at one of the most important Churches on Cologne's skyline.

At Peters Brauhaus, you’ll discover our arch-rival in brewing tradition (and more), learn about those caretakers of our beer and their unique mindsets, and sample our second included Kölsch of the evening.

Learning about where to drink and how much to pay is essential to understanding Kölsch. While experiencing the largest brewery in Cologne’s Altstadt, we’ll do just that and of course have the chance to sample a Kölsch.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

73 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

197 reviews

5★

176

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not suitable for guests under 18 years old.

Meeting point

You'll find your guide outside of the restaurant at this address! You'll be able to recognize them based on their tour guiding badge.

Important notes

Please simply show your ticket to the guide of your tour so they can check you in.

About Cologne

Cologne, located on the Rhine River, is known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. The city offers a mix of medieval charm and modern attractions, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Cologne Cathedral

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Germany's most famous landmarks, this Gothic masterpiece took over 600 years to complete.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours Free entry, €6 for tower climb

Rhine River Cruise

A scenic cruise along the Rhine River offers beautiful views of Cologne and other riverside cities.

Adventure/Cultural 1-2 hours €15-€30

Chocolate Museum

An interactive museum dedicated to the history and production of chocolate, with tastings included.

Museum 1-2 hours €12.50

Cologne Zoo

One of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Germany, home to a wide variety of animals and beautiful gardens.

Nature 2-3 hours €21

Old Town (Altstadt)

The historic heart of Cologne, filled with charming streets, traditional pubs, and medieval architecture.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Himmel un Ääd

A traditional dish made with mashed potatoes, apples, and blood sausage.

Dinner Contains pork and gluten.

Rievkooche

Potato pancakes, often served with apple sauce or sour cream.

Snack Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free.

Halve Hahn

A rye bread roll topped with roast beef, mustard, and onions.

Lunch Contains beef and gluten.

Kölsch

A local beer, light and refreshing, served in small glasses.

Drink Contains gluten.

Popular Activities

Rhine River cruises Hiking in the surrounding hills Biking along the Rhine Spas and wellness centers River walks Coffee shops and cafes Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Cologne due to pleasant weather and numerous outdoor events. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Dutch
English: Widely spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cologne is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing and petty theft.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys.

Getting there

By air

Cologne Bonn Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Cologne Central Station

By bus

Cologne Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams and buses are efficient and frequent. The KVB app is useful for schedules and tickets.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Cologne, Mytaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Deutz Südstadt Belgian Quarter

Day trips

Bonn

25 km • Half day to full day

The former capital of West Germany, Bonn offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty along the Rhine.

Dusseldorf

40 km • Full day

A vibrant city known for its fashion, art, and nightlife, Dusseldorf offers a mix of modern and historic attractions.

Burg Eltz

100 km • Full day

A stunning medieval castle nestled in the hills above the Moselle River, offering a glimpse into the past.

Festivals

Cologne Carnival • February/March (Weeks leading up to Ash Wednesday) Cologne Lights • December Cologne Pride • July

Pro tips

Visit the Cologne Cathedral early in the morning to avoid long queues and crowds.
Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in the Belgian Quarter or the Old Town.
Take a Rhine River cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
Try local Kölsch beer in traditional breweries like Brauhaus Früh am Dom or Peters Brauhaus.
Visit the Chocolate Museum for a unique and interactive experience.