Cologne Highlights: Exclusive Private Tour

Cologne , Germany

Cologne Highlights: Exclusive Private Tour

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About this experience

Discover Cologne’s rich history and culture as you stroll along Europe’s busiest shopping street, blending modern and Roman architecture with landmarks like Antoniterkirche and the Weltstadthaus; visit the Farina Fragrance Museum, birthplace of Eau de Cologne, and explore Rococo‑era perfume traditions; admire Rathausplatz, Germany’s oldest city hall with its mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles; marvel at the medieval Great St. Martin Church, built on Roman foundations and shaped by Baroque and Classical influences; indulge at the Cologne Chocolate Museum with cacao trees, a chocolate fountain, and production exhibits; cross the historic Hohenzollern Bridge adorned with equestrian statues of Prussian kings and emperors; and conclude at the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Gothic architecture, vast façade, and towering twin spires.

Available options

Best of Cologne with a private guide

What's included

Official Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stroll along a 500‑meter pedestrian street that beautifully blends modern and Roman architecture. Known as Europe’s busiest shopping street, it features landmarks such as the Antoniterkirche Church and the striking Weltstadthaus, designed by Renzo Piano.

Stop 2

Stop at the Duftmuseum im Farina‑Haus, the world’s oldest fragrance factory and birthplace of Eau de Cologne. Step back into the Rococo era to discover fascinating perfume production methods and the history of this iconic scent.

Admire Germany’s oldest city hall, founded in the 12th century. This Renaissance monument houses the mayor and city government. Its unique design combines a 61‑meter Gothic tower, a Renaissance corridor, a piazzetta, and the Spanischer Bau, showcasing a blend of architectural styles.

Visit the Great St. Martin Church, a stunning example of medieval architecture. Built on the remains of a Roman chapel in the 10th century, it has undergone many reconstructions and reflects Baroque and Classical influences.

Indulge your senses at the Cologne Chocolate Museum, where the story of chocolate unfolds from the Maya period to modern times. Highlights include a tropical palm house with cacao trees, a three‑meter chocolate fountain, and miniature machines used in chocolate production.

Stop 6 Pass by

Walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, constructed between 1907 and 1911. Once vital during World War II, it has been rebuilt as a tied‑arch bridge and is adorned with four equestrian statues of Prussian kings and German emperors.

Conclude your journey at the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Renowned for its Gothic architecture, it boasts the world’s largest façade and tallest twin spires, earning its place as a masterpiece of Christian monument history.

What's not included

Entrance fee - Chocolate Museum

Entrance fee - Farina Fragrance Museum

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

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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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Monument Kreuzblume, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

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.