Welcome to Cologne, the historic German city known for its magnificent cathedral, cultural splendours, and of course, its beer. If you’re looking to experience the best the city has to offer, there’s no better way to do it than by hopping from one delightful pub to another. And so, we’ve put together a list of the top pub crawls in Cologne. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this guide will lead you to some of the most authentic, fun-filled, and memorable drinking experiences the city has to offer. So, grab a pint, and let’s dive in!

The 2 Best Bar Tours in Cologne

1. Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots
2. Cologne: Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour

The 2 Best Bar Tours in Cologne

1. Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots

Hit the streets of Germany’s most beautiful city known for its nightlife and amazing beer culture. This pub crawl in Cologne includes free admission to some of the city’s top bars and pubs, along with a complimentary shot at each location. Join other travelers from around the world for a fun and lively experience. The tour leader will take you to at least four of the most popular bars in town, as well as some hot underground locations that even locals might not know about. If you’re celebrating your birthday, you can join for free. Remember to eat well before you drink, and non-alcoholic drinks are available upon request. Come and experience the best of Cologne’s nightlife with this exciting pub crawl.

2. Cologne: Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour

Enjoy a private premium pub crawl tour of Cologne and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant nightlife. Join your private guide at or near Rudolfplatz and get the party started with a complimentary shot of Schnapps. Over the course of 4 hours, gain exclusive entry to some of the best venues in town, while receiving a welcome shot at every bar and club, and even a few shots to go. With great music and even better company, this evening promises to be an unforgettable experience, perfect for birthdays, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or work outings. Book now for a fun-filled party evening with special party extras included.

Top Tourist Questions About Cologne

If you’re planning a visit to Cologne, you may be wondering about some of the basic information. Here are the most frequently asked questions by tourists about the city:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Cologne?

Cologne, like most cities in Germany, has four distinct seasons. The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences. If you like warm weather and want to take advantage of the outdoor activities, summer (June to August) is the best time to visit. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally cooler, but still pleasant, and offer pleasant weather for sightseeing. Winter (December to February) can be cold and dark, but also has its own charm with the famous Christmas markets and the beautiful Christmas lights.

2. What is the best way to get around Cologne?

Cologne’s public transport system is extensive and efficient, with buses, trams, and trains running frequently. The best option for tourists is to get a KölnCard, which offers unlimited transport on all buses, trams, and trains within the city limits, as well as discounts on museums, attractions, and restaurants.Cologne is also a very walkable city, with most of the major tourist attractions located within a compact area around the city center. Bicycles are available for rent, and there are many bike lanes and parks throughout the city.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Cologne?

Cologne has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with many must-see attractions. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Cologne Cathedral: one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe, with stunning views from the top
• Rhine River Cruises: take a boat tour along the Rhine River and see the city from a different perspective
• 12 Romanesque Churches: Cologne is home to 12 beautiful Romanesque churches, all within walking distance of each other
• Museum Ludwig: one of the most important modern art museums in Europe, with works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein
• Chocolate Museum: a delicious museum celebrating the history and production of chocolate

4. Where can I find the best local cuisine in Cologne?

Cologne is famous for its beer and traditional cuisine, including sausages, potato pancakes, and sauerkraut. Here are some of the best places to find local food:

• Brauhaus Früh am Dom: a traditional brewery near the cathedral, serving classic German dishes and excellent Kölsch beer
• Heising und Adelmann: a cozy bistro in the Belgian Quarter, serving modern takes on traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients
• Sion Brauhaus: a historic brewery with a large beer garden, famous for its Kölsch beer and hearty food
• Steakhouse El Gaucho: a popular Argentinean steakhouse in the city center, serving delicious meat dishes and homemade Chimichurri sauce

5. What are the best shopping areas in Cologne?

Cologne is a shopping paradise, with everything from luxury boutiques to local markets. Here are some of the best places to shop:

• Schildergasse: the main shopping street in Cologne, with many international and local brands and department stores
• Ehrenstraße: a trendy street in the Belgian Quarter, known for its independent boutiques and designer shops
• Neumarkt Galerie: a modern shopping center with over 60 stores, including fashion, beauty, and technology brands
• Cologne Christmas Markets: the famous Christmas markets are a must-visit for holiday shopping and festive atmosphere

6. What is the nightlife like in Cologne?

Cologne has a vibrant and diverse nightlife, with something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to go out:

• Alter Wartesaal: a historic train station turned into a concert venue and nightclub, with a focus on electronic music
• Bootshaus: one of the most iconic techno clubs in Germany, with international DJs and a massive dance floor
• Papa Joe’s Jazzlokal: a cozy jazz club with live music and a relaxed atmosphere, located in the Old Town
• Brauhaus Pütz: a traditional brewery with a lively beer garden, perfect for a laid-back evening with friends

Final Thoughts

Cologne is a wonderful destination for tourists, with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively cultural scene. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, shopping, or nightlife, Cologne has something to offer. By planning ahead, you can make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cologne

Cologne, or Köln as it is called in German, is a beautiful city located in the Rhine–Ruhr metropolitan region of Germany. With a rich cultural history, amazing architecture and a lively atmosphere, this city offers a lot of things to do and see for tourists. If you are planning to visit Cologne, here are some tips on how you can spend your time as a tourist:

1. Visit the Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral or Kölner Dom is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction in Cologne. It is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and has a stunning Gothic architecture. Visiting the cathedral is free of cost, but if you want to visit the tower or the treasury museum, you need to buy a ticket. The view from the top of the tower is breathtaking and worth the climb.

2. Take a Cruise on the Rhine River

The Rhine River flows through Cologne, and taking a river cruise is a great way to explore the city from a different perspective. There are several companies that offer boat tours, and you can choose from various options like a one-hour trip or a day-long tour. During the cruise, you can enjoy beautiful views of the city’s skyline and also learn about the history of Cologne.

3. Visit the Chocolate Museum

Cologne is known for its delicious chocolate, and the Chocolate Museum or Schokoladenmuseum is a great place to learn about the history and production of chocolate. The museum has several interactive exhibits, and you can also taste the various types of chocolate. The museum also has a chocolate shop where you can buy souvenirs.

4. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town or Altstadt of Cologne is a lively and vibrant place with beautiful architecture, trendy cafes and restaurants, and charming shops. You can take a stroll through the narrow streets and explore the various landmarks like the historic city hall, the colorful houses on the riverfront, and the Gross St. Martin Church. If you are lucky, you can also catch a street performance or live music.

5. Visit the Wallraf-Richartz Museum

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is one of the best art museums in Germany and has an extensive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The museum’s collection includes works by famous artists like Rembrandt, Rubens, and Monet. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

6. Experience the Nightlife

Cologne has a vibrant nightlife with several bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city is famous for its beer and has several breweries that you can visit. You can also attend a concert or live performance at one of the many venues in the city. Some popular nightlife spots in Cologne include the Belgian Quarter, the Altermarkt Square, and the Friesenviertel neighborhood.

7. Visit the Cologne Zoo

If you are traveling with kids, the Cologne Zoo or Zoologischer Garten Köln is a great place to visit. The zoo has over 500 different species of animals, including elephants, gorillas, and tigers. The zoo also has a playground, a petting zoo, and several cafes and restaurants.

8. Go Shopping

Cologne has a diverse shopping scene, from trendy boutiques to big-name brands. The Schildergasse Street is one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe and has several department stores and designer stores. The Ehrenstraße Street is also famous for its independent boutiques and cafes. You can also visit the Cologne Christmas Market during the holiday season, where you can buy traditional Christmas decorations, gifts, and food.

Book Your Tour Now

Cologne is a beautiful city with a rich cultural history and several attractions that can keep tourists busy for days. From visiting the iconic Cologne Cathedral to exploring the charming Old Town and experiencing the nightlife, there is something for everyone in Cologne. By following these tips, you can make the most out of your trip to this amazing city.