Cologne Christmas Lights guided bike tour

Cologne , Germany

Cologne Christmas Lights guided bike tour

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(7 reviews)

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

Are you visiting our city during the most wonderful time of the year? Be sure to join our Cologne Christmas Lights bike tour – the perfect activity during this joyful season.

Cologne hosts the most beautiful X-mas markets in Europe and thus makes the Christmas season the most festive time of the year. Many decorated stalls appear all over the city, offering local delicacies and gadgets, and the beautiful landmarks light up, turning the city into a cozy Christmas wonderland.

On this guided bike tour you enjoy a combination of classic sightseeing and visit different Christmas markets. Our knowledgeable local guides share some of their favorite German holiday traditions and know where to find unique handcrafted toys and Christmas souvenirs. Of course there is also enough time to try some traditional foods or a typical mulled wine or freshly brewed cocoa.
Cologne at Christmas time has its own unique charm!

Available options

Christmas Tour - regular bike

Christmas Tour - E-Bikes

E-Bike: E-Bike Upgrade for adults: Our e-bikes are suitable for guests from a height of 1.55 m! Children, kids and teenager ride on r

What's included

Local guide

Use of helmet

City Bike or E-Bike (depending on booking; E-Bike suitable for all guests from a height of 1.55 m)

Detailed itinerary

We meet at Gereonswall, at the Colonia Aktiv Shop, which is located just next to the medieval Eigelstein city gate.
Meet your guide, jump on your city bikes or e-bikes and off you go!

What an amazing panoramic view to the Cathedral and the Rhine! Make sure you have your cameras reday!

Cylce along the banks of the Rhine river and enjoy fantastic views.
The Rhine park is one of the biggest gardens of Colognes so-called "Schäl Sick". Your guide will tell you all about it!

Enjoy a combination of sightseeing and a visit to different Christmas markets in the historical city center during this wonderful tour.

What a unique feeling! The X-Mas Market in the Old Town has such a special vibe. You have the chance to try some of the local specialties, such as mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and much more.

Stop 6

Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral - Enjoy the Christmassy atmosphere in front of Germany's sight number one: The Cathedral!

A very special Christmas Market waits for us at the Rheinau Harbor: the Harbor and pirates market - located right in front of the Chocolate museum and in the shadow of the so-called Crane houses.
Park your bikes and take your time exploring all the handcrafted souvenirs and local treats!

Make your way back to the Eigelstein City Gate through the city center.
Christmas is such a special time here. Traditions, fairy lights, the smell of mulled wine and roasted nuts in the air - truly amazing!
And who knows, maybe your guide pops by one or the other X-Mas-Special on your way back to the Eigelstein.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Departure Point: Colonia Aktiv Shop
Gereonswall 2
50668 Köln
Address: Colonia Aktiv Shop

Gereonswall 2

50668 Köln
Directions: ..close to the medieval town gate "Eigelsteintor"

Important notes

• Please arrive no later than 10 minutes prior to departure time
• Reminder to dress according to weather conditions

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.