Cologne’s beer scene centers around its famous Kölsch – a light, crisp brew served in traditional brewhouses across the city. The best tours let you experience multiple breweries while learning about the strict rules governing this protected beer style.
We love the Legendary Kölsch Tour‘s intimate three-brewery format and the comprehensive four-stop Cologne Brewery Tour. For maximum variety, consider the Private German Beer Tasting, which pairs 4-8 different beers with classic appetizers. During winter, the Christmas Market and Kölsch Beer Tour combines seasonal charm with traditional brews.
Let’s explore the top brewery tours in detail…
Key Points
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The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour offers an intimate experience with visits to three Kölsch breweries and engaging historical insights about the local beer culture.
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The Cologne Brewery Tour provides a comprehensive 2-hour experience, including visits to four traditional breweries and sampling four distinct Kölsch varieties.
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The Old Town Walking Tour combines historical sightseeing with local Kölsch beer tastings, providing an immersive cultural experience in Cologne’s historic center.
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The Cologne Beer Culture Overview offers a diverse range of beer-centric activities, including brewery tours, public brewhouse tours, and a unique comedy bus tour.
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The Cologne Christmas Market and Kölsch Beer Tour provides an exclusive insight into Cologne’s festive spirit and beer traditions, with small-group tours and Kölsch sampling.
The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour
While visiting Cologne, one of the must-do experiences for beer enthusiasts is the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour. This 4.8/5-rated tour takes travelers to three Kölsch breweries, offering samples of the local beer. Priced at €30 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 10, providing an intimate experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation. Guests can expect engaging guides who provide historical context about Kölsch and Cologne.
However, some reviewers note occasional issues with brewery access due to capacity constraints. The tour combines brewery visits with cultural insights, making it an excellent choice for those interested in Cologne’s beer scene.
Read our full review: The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour Review
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Cologne: The Beer Experience
Cologne’s beer culture takes center stage with the diverse range of beer-centric activities and tours available to visitors. Highlights include the Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings, a 2-hour experience that earns a stellar 4.6 rating from over 1,900 reviews.
For a more immersive beer experience, the Public Brewhouse Tour in English, rated 5 out of 5 by 30 reviewers, offers a 2-hour guided tour.
Those seeking a unique perspective can enjoy the Comedy Bus Tour, a 1.5-hour sightseeing experience featuring Cologne’s beer scene.
Whether looking to sample local brews or dive deeper into the city’s storied beer heritage, Cologne delivers a well-rounded beer experience for all tastes.
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Cologne Christmas Market and Kölsch Beer Small-Group Tour
This small-group tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore Cologne’s iconic Christmas markets and indulge in the city’s renowned Kölsch beer culture.
Rated 4.7/5 and recommended by 93% of travelers, the tour offers exclusive insights into local brewhouses and the opportunity to sample the traditional German beer.
Knowledgeable guides, such as Marina, Berni, and Chris, lead the way, sharing historical anecdotes and ensuring a fun and engaging atmosphere.
While additional costs for drinks may be incurred, the included snacks and the chance to discover Cologne’s festive spirit make this tour a must-do for anyone seeking to experience the city’s vibrant holiday and beer traditions.
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Cologne: Brewery Tour With 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings
Immersing visitors in Cologne’s rich brewing heritage, this 2-hour brewery tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s renowned Kölsch beer culture.
Starting from the Kreuzblume near the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the tour guides guests through the historic old town, stopping at renowned breweries like Brauhaus Sion and Früh am Dom.
Along the way, you will sample three distinct Kölsch beers while learning about Cologne’s fascinating beer legends and history.
With flexible itineraries tailored to group preferences, the tour caters to beer enthusiasts of all backgrounds, providing an engaging and informative experience.
Priced from $28.68 per person, this brewery tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Cologne’s vibrant drinking culture.
Read our full review: Cologne: Brewery Tour With 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings Review
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Guided Tour of the Old Town With a Visit to the Brewery in Cologne
On this guided tour, visitors can explore the historic old town of Cologne and visit a renowned local brewery.
The tour has a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers and a 4.9 rating, indicating a highly positive experience. Guests will meet at the Equestrian statue of Friedrich Wilhelm III. and return to the same location at the end of the tour, which starts at 3:00 PM.
The tour includes the opportunity to sample Kölsch, the iconic local beer, at the brewery. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation, allowing most travelers to participate.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and engaging exploration of Cologne’s Old Town and brewing heritage.
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Public Brewery Tour in Cologne in English
Participants of the Public Brewery Tour in Cologne can explore the city’s vibrant beer culture through an engaging, two-hour experience conducted in English.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour takes visitors to a local brewery, where they’ll learn about Kölsch traditions and the history of Cologne’s beer scene.
Led by an expert guide, the tour is capped at 20 travelers and includes all fees and taxes.
While drinks aren’t included, participants are advised to bring 25 euros in cash to enjoy the local brews.
Wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, the tour is a must-do for beer enthusiasts visiting Cologne.
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Cologne: Old Town Beer History Tour
The Cologne: Old Town Beer History Tour offers visitors an immersive journey through the city’s vibrant beer culture and storied past.
With a 2-2.5 hour duration, the tour takes guests to four traditional beer houses, where they can savor locally brewed Kölsch-style beers and learn about the city’s rich brewing history.
Guided tours at each location provide insights into local customs and secrets from knowledgeable guides.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexibility, with a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customer reviews praise the excellent guide and value for money, making this tour a must-do experience for beer enthusiasts and non-drinkers alike.
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Colonia Tour: Explore Cologne by Segway With 1 Beer or 1 Water
Exploring the historic city of Cologne has never been more thrilling than with the Colonia Tour – a unique Segway experience that allows visitors to glide through the charming streets and discover its iconic landmarks.
This 2-hour guided tour, suitable for ages 14 and up, accommodates up to 10 travelers at a time. Highlights include friendly staff, ample photo opportunities, and a beginner-friendly practice session.
While the guide’s English proficiency received mixed reviews, the included audio guide app helps bridge the gap.
Travelers can also enjoy a complimentary beer or water in a local brewery, making this an engaging and refreshing way to explore Cologne.
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Cologne: Guided Walking Tour to 3 Old Town Breweries
Visitors can embark on a captivating 2-hour guided walking tour through Cologne’s historic Old Town, seeing the city’s renowned brewing heritage.
The tour takes participants to three iconic local breweries, where they’ll savor a glass of the city’s signature Kölsch beer at each stop.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating anecdotes and showcases landmarks like the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen fountain and Cologne Cathedral.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour offers personalized attention and exceptional value at just $25.03 per person.
Travelers should book early, as this experience is likely to sell out quickly.
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Informative and Fun Brewery Tour in German, Public
Enjoy Cologne’s vibrant beer culture on this informative and engaging brewery tour conducted entirely in German.
Over the course of 2 hours, you’ll visit several renowned local breweries, including Brauerei zur Malzmühle, Gilden im Zims, Brauhaus Sion, and Bierhaus en dr Salzgass.
Along the way, you’ll sample different varieties of the city’s signature Kölsch beer while learning about Cologne’s rich brewing history from expert guides.
With their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling, you’ll gain insider insights into the local beer scene.
This tour is perfect for adults 18 and over, though those with hearing impairments may face some challenges.
Free cancellation and a pay later option make this an easy choice for your Cologne beer exploration.
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Cologne: South Cologne Walking Tour With Brewery Visit
What better way to experience the vibrant culture of Cologne’s southern district than with a guided walking tour culminating in a visit to a local brewery?
This 2-hour South Cologne Walking Tour offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s sights, flavors, and free-spirited atmosphere. Guests will explore the Basilica of St. Severin, Severinstorburg, and enjoy a refreshing glass of Kölsch beer.
Along the way, they’ll learn about Cologne’s intriguing connection to bananas and chocolate, and discover charming shops, outdoor restaurants, and trendy bars.
With insightful tips from a live guide, this tour provides an engaging and informative experience, suitable for individuals 12 and older.
Priced from $26.08 per person, it’s a must for anyone seeking to explore Cologne’s rich cultural heritage.
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Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour With Brewery and Kölsch Beer
This 2-hour Old Town Walking Tour in Cologne provides an engaging exploration of the city’s historic center, culminating in a visit to a traditional brewery where participants can savor the local Kölsch beer.
Priced at $17.73 per person, the tour takes visitors through the Old Town, Fish Market, Alter Markt, and Rathausplatz, offering insights into Cologne’s fascinating history.
Highlights include experiencing the local culture through Kölsch tastings and brewery visits.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 and high praise for the guide, this tour offers excellent value for money and an opportunity to take in Cologne’s vibrant heritage.
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Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots
For those seeking a lively and social experience in Cologne, the Pub Crawl Cologne tour offers an opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Priced at $26.08 per person, the tour includes admission fees to top bars and pubs, as well as a complimentary shot at each hotel. Participants can expect to discover underground locations not known to locals, while meeting people from around the world.
The tour lasts one day and requires a minimum of 10 participants. Enthusiastic tour guides, available in English and German, will enhance the experience.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those under 18 or for guests who are already intoxicated at the start.
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Cologne: Brewery Tour With Beer Tasting and Halven Hahn
On this engaging two-hour Cologne Brewery Tour, participants explore the heart of the city’s rich brewing culture.
Visiting four traditional breweries and pubs, guests sample four varieties of the local Kölsch beer and savor the classic Halven Hahn sandwich.
The tour provides an immersive experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing anecdotes and insights into Cologne’s brewing traditions.
Priced at $30.25 per person, this tour is a popular choice, with a high overall rating of 4.8/5 based on nearly 400 reviews.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, it’s an accessible way to explore Cologne’s vibrant beer scene.
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Private German Beer Tasting Tour in Cologne Old Town
Attendees of the Private German Beer Tasting Tour in Cologne Old Town embark on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s emerging beer scene, guided by a knowledgeable local expert.
The tour offers a choice of 2-4 hour experiences, allowing visitors to sample 4-8 different beers, including popular, regional, and craft varieties.
Participants can expect to visit 2-3 carefully selected pubs, beer gardens, and breweries, where they’ll learn about Oktoberfest, Reinheitsgebot, and Kölsch brewing traditions while enjoying authentic local culture.
The tour includes German-style appetizers and hot dishes, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.
Priced at $257.20 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
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Cologne: Kölsch Beer and Brew House 2-Hour Tour
Immersing visitors in Cologne’s vibrant beer culture, the Cologne: Kölsch Beer and Brew House 2-Hour Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s centuries-old brewing traditions.
During this 2-hour excursion, you will visit three renowned brew houses to sample Kölsch, Cologne’s signature beer. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides an insider’s perspective on the local drinking habits and beer-centric lifestyle.
Highlights include seeing the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral and receiving tips on the best venues and attractions. Priced at $20.34 per person, the tour is likely to sell out, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5, this tour promises an engaging and immersive exploration of Cologne’s beloved beer scene.
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Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour Inkl Brewery Visit
For those seeking to explore Cologne’s storied beer culture, the Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour including Brewery Visit offers an immersive experience.
Priced at $23.99 per person, this 1-day tour guides visitors through Cologne’s charming Old Town, showcasing local landmarks and monuments.
Highlights include sampling three distinct Kölsch beers at traditional breweries and learning about the city’s unique beer serving style.
With a live German-speaking guide, the tour provides insider tips and historical insights.
Suitable for adults, the experience has earned a stellar 4.8/5 rating from 51 reviews, praised for its informative and engaging content.
For those wanting to fully enjoy Cologne’s vibrant beer scene, this walking tour is a must-do.
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Sum Up
Cologne offers a variety of brewery tours that let visitors experience the city’s rich beer culture. From classic Kölsch tastings to guided walks through the historic Old Town, these tours provide an engaging way to discover Cologne’s vibrant drinking scene. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious, these tours promise an enjoyable and informative experience.