Cologne: Guided Walking Tour to 3 Old Town Breweries

If you’re looking for the ultimate experience for beer lovers in Cologne, then a guided walking tour to 3 old town breweries is the perfect choice. Learn about the rich beer culture in this historic city as you sample some of the oldest and finest German beers, in beautifully preserved and renowned beer halls. An expert guide will be able to provide comprehensive knowledge and insights into the brewing process as you sample some extraordinary beers.

Cologne exhibits Germany’s rich beer culture. This city is well-known for its famous Kölsch beer and is bursting with fascinating brewing history, which dates as far back as 1324. While on this walking tour, you’ll have access to the timeless beer halls, impressive cellars and remarkable breweries to learn more about the incredible beer culture in this city.

Tour Overview

The walking tour is approximately 2.5 hours and your personal guide will take you around the historic center of Cologne to discover three local breweries. Explore the traditional, cozy beer gardens and cellars that are known to all the locals and visit local breweries that date back to Medieval times.

You will sample four different varieties of Kölsch beer, including the locally renowned Päffgen beer, which won gold medal awards at the Luxemburg Open Beer Competition in 2013 and 2014. As you explore these traditional haunts, learn about the old brewing methods and how the industry has evolved over time. Your guide will even provide instructions on how to order the beer properly in Cologne, which involves ringing a bell in the centre of your table to order the next beer round.

You’ll have the chance to experience some of the oldest breweries in Germany, as your guide takes you to Früh Brewery, Gaffel Brewery and Päffgen Brewery. As you taste some of the finest beers in all of Germany, you’ll gain an understanding of the German beer culture and its influence across the country and beyond. You may also be lucky enough to witness a full beer bottling process at one of the breweries, making for a truly unique experience.

Once the tour is over, you’ll feel like a local as you’ll have been granted access to some of Cologne’s oldest sacred places. As an added bonus, every visitor will be given two pint glasses as keepsakes to remember their experience.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Please let your guide know if you would like a vegetarian alternative for lunch.
• The tour is suitable for children from 8 years old; however please remember that the drinking age in Germany is 18 years old and no alcohol will be provided until identity papers can be viewed.
• Bring your camera for photo opportunities.
• Be aware that there are quite a few uneven cobblestones during this walking tour.
• Beer tasting is included.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a trip that combines culture, history and great beer, while teaching you more than you ever thought possible about German beer culture, look no further than this incredible guided walking tour to 3 old town breweries in Cologne. Explore traditional beer gardens, sample exquisite brews and gain a truly unique view of what makes Cologne so special. If you would like to enjoy this unforgettable experience, book your tour now here.

Insider’s Guide to Cologne, Germany

Cologne or Köln, situated in western Germany, is a vibrant and attractive city that is steeped in history and culture. The city is famous for its old town, magnificent architecture, art, and thriving food and drink scene. Cologne is a city that’s perfect for wandering around on foot, taking in the atmosphere and discovering hidden gems. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the city’s top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Attractions

Cologne is dotted with many incredible attractions that must be on every traveler’s itinerary. Here are the top attractions in the city:

1. Cologne Cathedral – The Cathedral is a symbol of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gothic cathedral has an impressive façade and awe-inspiring architecture.

2. Old Town – Old Town is a beautiful area of the city that is packed with cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and a lively marketplace. It’s a must-visit, particularly if you’re interested in history and architecture.

3. Hohenzollern Bridge – The bridge is famous for the thousands of “love locks” attached to it, a symbol of eternal love, and also offers spectacular views of the city’s skyline.

4. Chocolate Museum – If you have a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Museum is an amazing place to visit. You can learn about the history and evolution of chocolate and taste some of the most incredible chocolates.

Dining Spots

Food and drink are a very important part of the Cologne experience. Let’s explore some of the best dining spots in the city:

1. Brauhaus Früh am Dom – This brewery has been in operation since 1904 and offers some of the best Kölsch beers in the city and hearty German food.

2. Em Krützche – A cozy restaurant and brewery that offers traditional Cologne food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.

3. Hofbräu am Dom – This famous brewery is located in the heart of Cologne and is known for its excellent beer and good food.

Cultural Experiences

Cologne has a deep-rooted culture, arts, and music scene. Here are the top cultural experiences in the city:

1. Museum Ludwig – It’s a world-famous museum that boasts one of the most extensive collections of modern art in Europe.

2. Cologne Philharmonic – This music hall is a must-visit for all classical music lovers. The acoustics are terrific, and the performances are of a very high standard.

3. Roman-Germanic Museum – This museum is famous for its collection of Roman artifacts that were excavated in the Cologne area and is worth a visit to experience the region’s history.

Local History

Cologne has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the Roman Empire. Here are some historical sites not to be missed:

1. Roman Walls – A section of the ancient wall of the Roman city, Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, is still visible in the city today. Take a stroll along the wall and explore the surrounding gardens.

2. Cologne City Museum – The museum explores Cologne’s past, from its Roman origins to the present day.

3. St. Ursula’s Bones – St. Ursula is a Christian martyr who lived in the 4th century. Her bones are located in this church, which dates back to the 12th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Finally, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions that are worth checking out:

1. Botanical Garden Flora – The botanical garden is not a typical tourist destination, but it’s worth a visit if you want to enjoy a peaceful afternoon in a lush, green setting.

2. Ottoplatz – It’s a vibrant and trendy area with street art, bars, and cafes. Ottoplatz is an up-and-coming neighborhood that has undergone significant redevelopment in the past few years.

3. Rheinauhafen – The Rheinauhafen is a historic harbor area that has been rejuvenated into a popular attraction. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore, and you can take a stroll along the river bank to enjoy the view.

In conclusion, Cologne is an outstanding destination for travelers who want to experience a beautiful German city with a rich history, culture, and vibrant food scene. Whether you wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, enjoy a Kölsch beer in a traditional brewery, or explore the city’s many attractions, Cologne is a city that will leave you charmed and eager to return.