Cologne Highlights, Stories, and Local Atmosphere Tour
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Cologne Highlights, Stories, and Local Atmosphere Tour

Active
(46 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

Cologne is best explored through the eyes of locals. Much of what makes this city special can't be found wandering alone. This tour reveals what makes Cologne the most beloved city in Germany. Experience the Kölner Gefühl—the Cologne Feeling—that makes this city unique. From love for the Cathedral, beer, and Karneval, to tragic pasts and construction issues, discover the true essence of Cologne. Starting outside the Old Town, we'll show you both the proud, popular side and the hidden, sometimes overlooked aspects of local life. Beyond the main stops, explore all facets of Cologne. By the end, you'll understand this quirky city better, loving it for what it is and appreciating its history. Join us and fall in love with Kölle for yourself.

Available options

Clásicos de Colonia

Classic Köln Tour

Classic Cologne Sights, Stories, and Spirit

What's included

Local Tourguide with Deep Love and Knowledge of Cologne
Online Booking Fee (the price you pay online is to handle the booking process)
Local Tips and Recommendations from Years of Experience

Detailed itinerary

1

Here, at our Medieval starting point, you'll meet your tour group! Here you'll meet your guide and get introduced to that group that you'll spend the next hours with.

We'll kick off the tour with some information about how Cologne came to be in the first place. From its Germanic Tribe and Roman routes to its strong Medieval past, we'll get into the essentials.

We'll also begin opening up the culture of Cologne for you, helping you understand why this city feels more Italian at times then it has ever felt German. Let's get into that Cologne Feeling!

Begin to learn the background of Germany's most unique city. Get to know the origin of the "most Northern city in Italy" through our Roman routes to our laid-back attitude and culture. We'll show you a few hidden spots along the way.

2

In front of one of our favorite, local bars, we'll talk about some unfortunate boating in Cologne's past before exploring the history of Cologne's Iconic Crest. Learn about our colors, our patron saint and the reasoning behind our religious past.

We'll also take some time to answer that one question everyone who gets to know a local wants to ask: Why do the people in Cologne love their city so very much?

3

It wouldn't be a trip through the Eigelstein Quarter without a stop at one of the capitals of Cologne's Diversity: Little Ankara.

We'll take about how Cologne went from being almost wiped from the earth and abandoned to becoming the most diverse city in Germany.

In the heart of one of the communities that helped us rebuild from the ashes, let's talk about how our Germany's darkest period left us looking like a strange architectual mess but also gave us a heart of gold you won't find elsewhere in the country.

4

Let's take a little time to check out one of Cologne's hidden gems, the beautiful, multi-styled, Italian church in Cologne's Old Town that often gets overlooked.

After a quick stop to discuss the art history of Cologne, we'll visit the interior of this beautiful church for a quick look at one of the most beautiful church interiors in the city and give you a glimpse into what rebuilding Cologne looked like!

5
Stop 5

Of course it wouldn't be Cologne if we didn't talk about the history of our most important building. Go through the story of the Cathedral step by step and decide for yourself why this building defines so much of the city and its people.

You can't leave Cologne without getting to know this church better!

6

Continuing our stories of the Dom to learn about some of its special features and its not so special surroundings as we explain some of the buildings that crowd the Cathedral.

From the top to the bottom, we'll get into the details on the church like the windows, doors, gargoyles, roof and more before giving you the hints on how to visit before waving goodbye to the Dom for our tour.

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

While visiting Cologne's most famous songwriter and hear his impact on Kölle, let's dive into our fifth season. Hear the importance of this period in our year and learn a few songs and dances as well while you're at it.

Karneval is a very individual experience. We'll give you all the need-to-knows and then let our expert storytellers take over, letting you in behind the scenes on their time spent in the largest Karneval in Europe and one of the biggest parties on the continent.

Karneval can show you the best of Cologne. We'll make sure you know why!

We'll end our tour here, centered in the Old Town where you can make your way to your next stop in our city with a fresh list of exclusive recommendations, deciding here the final worth of your tour!

What's not included

Gratuaties - Tips are welcome and expected - Pay-What-You-Want! - Most people leave 10€ to 20€ pp

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
4 reviews
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Tripadvisor 4.9
42 reviews
5★
40
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Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You can find your guide near the famous Northern Medieval gate of Cologne's old city wall! They'll be wearing a nametag and a smile ready to greet you!

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

Adults
Age 18-99
1
Childs
Age 3-17
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 7
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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