Cologne: Private Half-Day Trip Drachenburg Castle and Linz
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4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Ride on the oldest German cog railway and visit the amazing Drachenburg Castle on a day trip from Cologne with a Private Guide and transport. Optional: walking tour of the medieval Old Town of Linz am Rhein with picturesque half-timbered houses.
Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests:
4-hour: Drachenburg Castle
Visit Drachenburg Castle via Drachenfelsbahn railway. This tour includes private car transfers from Cologne.
6-hour: Drachenburg Castle & Linz
Visit Drachenburg Castle via Drachenfelsbahn railway and explore the historic Old Town of Linz am Rhein. This tour includes private car transfers from Cologne
If you are looking for an epic half-day trip near Cologne, Drachenburg Castle may be your choice. It is a stunning castle built on the Drachenfels mountain with breathtaking views of the Rhein valley. Be picked-up at your accommodation in Cologne by the private car and take a 40-minutes comfortable drive south to the charming Konigswinter.
Available options
4H:Guide to Drachenburg Castle
Duration: 4 hours: Join this tour with your Private Guide and transportation. Enjoy a visit to the Drachenburg Castle and Drachenfels.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. DECO006<br/>Pickup included
6H:Drachenburg Castle& Linz
Duration: 6 hours: Choose this option to visit the Drachenburg Castle and Drachenfelsthe as well as medieval village of Linz am Rhein<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. DECO006<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Walking tour of Linz am Rhein Old Town (6-hour option only)
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
Private Half-Day Trip from Cologne to Drachenburg Castle and Linz
Private transport with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation
number of attractions depends on the selected option)
Entrance tickets to Drachenburg Castle
Round-trip tickets for the Drachenfelsbahn railway
Detailed itinerary
1
Drachenburg Castle may be your choice. It is a stunning castle built on the Drachenfels mountain with breathtaking views of the Rhein valley. Be picked-up at your accommodation in Cologne by the private car and take a 40-minutes comfortable drive south to the charming Konigswinter village.
2
You will reach the Burg Drachenfels by fun and historical Drachenfelsbahn, which is the oldest cog railway in Germany. It feels like you're being pulled up the hill of a roller coaster, but without a scary drop. At the top of the mountain you will find a ruined medieval castle with incredible views . On a sunny day you may even spot Cologne Cathedral!
3
Once you finish, make your way down the path towards Castle Drachenburg. It is actually a castle-like 19th century villa and it’s absolutely worth exploring its short, but turbulent history. You will be accompanied by our Expert-Guide, who will reveal all interesting facts and stories. The castle is perfectly renovated and glistens in its original splendour. Do not forget to take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful gardens. The Drachenfelsbahn will take you back to the village.
4
You will discover in addition the beautiful village of Linz am Rhein, known as the “colorful city”. During about 2-hour sightseeing tour with your Guide you will stroll through historic cobblestoned streets and admire 16th century picturesque half-timbered houses.
5
You will get to know the highlights such as: Old Market Square, St. Martin Church, Linz Castle and part of medieval city fortification Pulverturm. The Guide will make sure that your trip is unforgettable and tailored to your interests. Once you enjoy all attractions you will be comfortable taken back to your accommodation place.
What's not included
Walking tour of Linz am Rhein Old Town (in a 4-hour option)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
Please note that the number of attractions depends on the selected option.
Drachenfelsbahn is a historic railway. In case of the railway being out of service, the driver will get you as close to Drachenburg Castle as possible, but since there is no parking on the site you will have to hike for 10-14 mins to reach the top of the hill.
Don't let extreme weather spoil your experience, check the forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions, rain or shine. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
We will arrange private transfers in a standard car (sedan) for groups of 1-4 people, and in a larger van for groups of 5 people and more. You can book a 5-people tour for a larger vehicle.
Important notes
Know Before You Go:
• Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
• Please note that the number of attractions depends on the selected option.
• Drachenfelsbahn is a historic railway. In case of the railway being out of service, the driver will get you as close to Drachenburg Castle as possible, but since there is no parking on the site you will have to hike for 10-14 mins to reach the top of the hill.
• Don't let extreme weather spoil your experience, check the forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions, rain or shine. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
• We will arrange private transfers in a standard car (sedan) for groups of 1-4 people, and in a larger van for groups of 5 people and more. You can book a 5-people tour for a larger vehicle.
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
Instant confirmation
