Cologne Christmas Market and Kölsch Beer Small-Group Tour
Active
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
This Christmas market special tour starts at Brauerei zur Malzmühle, the second oldest brewery in Cologne! There you will get an introduction to the local beer specialty Kölsch and the rich culture surrounding it. Of course, you have plenty of time to try the best beer in the world!
Afterwards we will start to explore Cologne's magnificent Christmas markets and enjoy some warming mulled wine or try more refreshing Kölsch beers.
To allow more flexibility, drinks are not included in this tour, but can be ordered for the original price.
Enjoy this tour with a small number of guests (not more than 10 guests per tour)!
Available options
Tour in German
Tour in English
What's included
Exclusive insights to our favorite brewhouses and the local beer Kölsch
Guided tour over Cologne's magical Christmas markets
Detailed itinerary
1
We will start the tour with the possibility to try the Kölsch beer specialty from Cologne's second oldest brewery.
Your guide will introduce you to Kölsch beer and the culture surrounding it.
2
The Christmas markets on Heumarkt and Alter Markt are really magical. Enjoy some more refreshing Kölsch beer or warming mulled wine, while you discover these two Christmas Markets.
3
This is one of Cologne's smallest Christmas markets, where often live music is played. Enjoy some fresh Kölsch beers, mulled wine or Feuerzangenbowle, a traditional German alcoholic drink for which a rum-soaked sugarloaf is set on fire and drips into mulled wine.
4
Cologne's largest and most known Christmas market, right next to the impressive Cathedral.
What's not included
Drinks (for purchase: Kölsch beers in the brewhouses, mulled wine or other drinks at Xmas market)
Snacks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
14 reviews
5★
12
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
17 reviews
5★
14
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible
Meeting point
We will meet you at Brauerei zur Malzmühle. Please ask at the door.
Important notes
Please arrive 15 minutes before the booked time or inform us if you can't make it at least 15 minutes before. Otherwise, participation in the tour can no longer be guaranteed. Intoxicated guests may be refused participation.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
