Cologne Classic Private Tour
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Cologne Classic Private Tour

Active
(17 reviews)
2h
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

Do you want to see Cologne through the eyes of locals, learning Cologne's important history but not being dragged through dry facts and numbers? How about finding hidden spots not even locals now about but help explain the attitude Cologne has had for generations? Maybe you want to understand why people here love their city so unconditionally despite its bizarre issues and blatant mismanagement?

We've got the tour for you. For the few hours we're together, we'll give you an understanding of what makes Cologne so unique, so loved by locals and expats alike, such a cheery place despites its exterior and the mistakes that cover the city (we'll talk about those too!) We'll help you understand the true Kölner Feeling, the Cologne Feeling that is contagious to all who incounter it.

Available options

Classic Cologne Private Tour

One Local Kölsch Beer: Enjoy a fresh Kölsch, Cologne's local beer, from one of our typical Brauhäuser in the city!<br/>The Hidden Old Town: See not only the tourist attractions but the secrets that even locals don't see in Cologne's Old Town.

What's included

Personal guide.

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The starting point of our tour, here you'll meet your guide and start with an introduction into the city of Cologne and what you can expect while visiting this loved city on the Rhine!

We'll begin with the history of Cologne's foundation and the woman who helped build it while also exploring some hidden nearby ruins not known by most locals. You'll also begin to learn what makes Cologne so much different than other German cities!

2
Stop 2

Also known as the Love Lock bridge, view the Cathedral from its most famous angle while learning the history of Cologne's most important bridge from the good to the bad. You'll also hear a little of Cologne's history of poor construction.

3

Visit Cologne's famous Fischmarket while hearing stories of the Rhein river and its importance to Cologne. With one of Cologne's most iconic views as a backdrop, here you'll learn what made the river both the greatest giver and taker of life in Cologne while making us a city larger than London for centuries.

4

It wouldn't be a Cologne tour if we didn't stop for a Kölsch and get to know more about our most famous beer.

5

Fresh from a refreshing Kölsch, visit Cologne's most famous songwriter and hear his impact on Karneval, our fifth season. Dive into the importance of this period and learn a few songs and dances as well.

6

Cologne is full of hidden figures and meanings. We've got you covered. From here we'll give you a timeline of the city and show you when rivalries and animosity lead to obsceneties that can still be seen in our city center today.

7

Cologne is full of hidden figures and meanings. We've got you covered. From here we'll give you a timeline of the city and show you when rivalries and animosity lead to obsceneties that can still be seen in our city center today.

8
Stop 8

We'll return to the Dom to end our stories with the history of our most important building. Go through the history of the Cathedral step by step and decide for yourself why this building defines so much of the city and its people.

Learn the history and, maybe more importantly, the meaning of Cologne's Cathedral to its people. Get to know the stories that built the Dom as well as those that almost tore it down. Leave feeling more connected to Cologne's most important monument and the most touristed attraction in Germany.

Here, we'll end our tour and leave you with recommendations and tips on what to explore next, where to eat, and where to find the best Cologne has to offer.

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor 4.9
16 reviews
5★
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide near the Kreuzblume, away from the entrance of the cathedral to the east and down a slight flight of stairs! The will be wearing a Freewalk Cologne ID badge.

Important notes

The guide will be waiting for you at the Eigelsteintorburg and will be easy to recognize.

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

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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