Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour With Brewery and Kölsch Beer

Cologne, Germany’s fourth-largest city, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture that come alive on the Old Town Walking Tour. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, learn engaging stories from a knowledgeable guide, and indulge in a delightful Kölsch beer tasting at a traditional Bierhaus. With a high rating and a comprehensive itinerary, this tour promises an authentic and memorable experience. Discover the city’s past and present as you stroll through the charming Old Town, uncovering the unique charm that has made Cologne a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Key Points

• This 2-hour guided walking tour explores Cologne’s Old Town, including a visit to a traditional Bierhaus for a Kölsch beer tasting.
• The tour covers iconic landmarks like the Fish Market, Alter Markt, and Rathausplatz, providing insights into Cologne’s nearly 2,000-year history.
• Visitors can enjoy the city’s beer culture and learn about the unique characteristics of the local Kölsch brew.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the 2-hour duration.
• With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 and a near-perfect guide rating, the tour offers an exceptional cultural experience in Cologne.

Tour Overview

The walking tour in Cologne offers visitors an engaging exploration of the city’s historic Old Town, featuring a guided journey through its vibrant past and a chance to savor a traditional Kölsch beer.

Lasting two hours, this tour provides an immersive experience, starting at the Reiterstandbild Friedrich Wilhelm III. and covering the Old Town, Bierhaus en dr Salzgass, Fish Market, Alter Markt, and Rathausplatz.

Along the way, guests will learn about the city’s nearly 2,000-year-old history and have the opportunity to sample the local Kölsch beer in a traditional brewery setting.

Priced from $18.57 per person, the tour is suitable for adults and youth, though not accessible for wheelchair users.

Itinerary Highlights

The walking tour kicks off at the Reiterstandbild Friedrich Wilhelm III. on Heumarkt, where guests embark on a 20-minute guided exploration of Cologne’s historic Old Town.

From there, the tour progresses to the Bierhaus en dr Salzgass for a 20-minute visit and tasting of the local Kölsch beer.

Next, participants venture to the Fish Market for a 10-minute guided tour before heading to the Alter Markt for another 20-minute guided segment.

The final stop is the Rathausplatz, where the tour concludes with a 10-minute guided exploration.

Old Town Exploration

Cologne’s historic Old Town dates back nearly 2,000 years, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, the walking tour leads participants through the area’s narrow alleyways, showcasing an array of shops, cafes, and breweries that have stood the test of time.

Along the way, they’ll discover the Fish Market and the Alter Markt, two iconic landmarks that are rich in history.

At the Rathausplatz, they’ll admire the stunning architecture and learn about the city’s administrative center.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares fascinating stories and insights, bringing Cologne’s past to life in an engaging and informative manner.

Brewery Visit and Beer Tasting

After exploring Cologne’s historic Old Town, the tour takes participants to a traditional Bierhaus en dr Salzgass for a 20-minute visit and beer tasting.

Here, they’ll have the opportunity to sample the city’s famous Kölsch beer, a light and refreshing brew that has been a local staple for centuries. Kölsch is known for its:

• Crisp, clean flavor

• Golden color

• Moderate alcohol content

• Unique brewing process

• Strict regional designation

Sipping the local brew in a traditional brewery setting allows visitors to enjoy Cologne’s rich beer culture and appreciate the city’s centuries-old brewing traditions.

Historic Fish Market

As the tour winds its way through the city’s historic core, participants come upon the vibrant Fish Market, a lively hub that has operated in Cologne for centuries. The guide shares the market’s rich history, explaining how it’s been an integral part of the city’s commercial and cultural life since the Middle Ages. Visitors are invited to stroll through the bustling stalls, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of the fresh seafood on display. The guide provides insights into the traditional preparation and local specialties, whetting the appetite for the upcoming brewery visit and beer tasting.

Fish Market Facts
Established	13th C.	Vendors	50+
Hours	Daily	Cuisine	Local
Specialties	Smoked	Seafood
Market Days	Tuesdays

Alter Markt and Rathausplatz

The tour then leads visitors to the historic Alter Markt and Rathausplatz, two of Cologne’s most iconic public squares.

The Alter Markt, dating back to the 13th century, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and well-preserved Historicist architecture, including the striking Rathaus (town hall) that dominates the square. Highlights of the Alter Markt include:

• The historic Rathaus, a prime example of Renaissance architecture

• The Fischbrunnen (Fish Fountain), an ornate fountain dating back to 1875

• Charming cafes and restaurants lining the perimeter of the square

• Bustling markets and street performers entertaining visitors

• The opportunity to soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic center

From the Alter Markt, the tour then moves on to the nearby Rathausplatz, home to the impressive Cologne City Hall and a fitting end to the walking exploration of Cologne’s Old Town.

Inclusions and Participant Info

This walking tour includes a guided tour of Cologne’s historic Old Town as well as a visit to a local brewery for a traditional Kölsch beer tasting. Participants will meet at the equestrian statue of Friedrich Wilhelm III, though an alternative meeting location may be used if an event is taking place. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking for about two hours. Both adults and youth are welcome to join, but the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The tour provides an opportunity to explore Cologne’s vibrant past, navigating narrow alleys and discovering shops, cafes, and breweries. A knowledgeable guide will share insights into the city’s history and culture, enhancing the overall experience.

With the inclusion of a Kölsch beer tasting, participants can truly enjoy the local traditions of this renowned German city.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on this walking tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 79 reviews.

Reviewers were particularly impressed with the tour guide, who earned a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of 5.

Customers also praised the tour’s excellent value for money, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating in this category.

Key highlights noted by travelers include:

• Engaging and knowledgeable guide

• Opportunity to experience authentic Kölsch beer

• Comprehensive exploration of Cologne’s historic Old Town

• Well-organized and efficiently paced tour

• Overall exceptional experience

This tour’s consistently high customer ratings make it a must-do activity for anyone visiting Cologne.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a visit to a traditional brewery where a Kölsch beer is provided as part of the experience.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price of $18.57 per person is the standard rate, regardless of age or student status. Discounts are not mentioned in the tour details provided.

Can I Leave and Rejoin the Tour at Any Point?

Participants cannot leave and rejoin the tour at any point. The walking tour is a single continuous experience, and attendees are expected to remain with the group for the full duration. Departing and returning would not be permitted.

What Language Is the Tour Conducted In?

The tour is conducted in English, as the description indicates it is a guided walking tour suitable for adults and youth who likely speak English. The guide provides the tour in a language accessible to all participants.

Is the Brewery Accessible for Those With Mobility Issues?

The tour’s brewery is not accessible for individuals with mobility issues, as the itinerary indicates it is not suitable for wheelchair users. Participants should wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the walking tour.

Recap

The Old Town Walking Tour in Cologne offers an immersive experience, blending the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Visitors explore iconic landmarks, discover the traditional Bierhaus, and savor the renowned Kölsch beer, all while learning engaging stories from the knowledgeable guide.

With a high customer rating, this tour provides an authentic and memorable glimpse into Cologne’s captivating past.