How to Plan Your Private Walking Tour of Cologne’s Old Town

Cologne, a beautiful city located in western Germany, boasts a rich history and diverse culture. The best way to explore and experience the city’s beauty is by taking a private walking tour of the old town. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your private walking tour of Cologne’s old town.

An Overview of the Tour

The tour is a 90-minute guided walk through Cologne’s old town. On this tour, you will have a chance to explore the city’s most beautiful sites and learn about the history, legend, and stories behind each landmark. The tour is led by a knowledgeable and experienced local guide who will take you through the narrow streets and hidden corners of Cologne.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who will provide narration in English. You will also have access to headphones if needed. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is designed to accommodate most travelers.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the tour is at Kreuzblume located at Kardinal-Höffner-Platz 1, 50667 Köln Germany. This location is easily accessible by public transportation. The Kreuzblume is a copy of the top of the cathedral that stands between the main portal of the cathedral and the Café Reichard or the tourist information. With a height of 9.50 m it is easy to find.

After the tour, you will return to the meeting point as the tour ends there.

What to Expect

On this tour, you can expect to explore the most significant landmarks and attractions of Cologne’s old town. The tour will take you through the iconic Cologne Cathedral, passing the beautiful town hall, bustling Fish Market, and many more hidden gems and secret corners that hide behind the historic buildings’ facades.

You will learn about the history and legends of the city’s most famous landmarks and discover delightful shops and restaurants situated in the old town. This tour is more than a sightseeing tour. It is an immersive experience that will take you on an exciting journey through Cologne’s past and present.

Additional Info

Before booking the tour, keep in mind that confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers. Also, pedestrians should expect to walk through the old town’s cobbled streets, climbing and making descents on narrow or sloping streets, so wear comfortable shoes.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. However, canceling the booking within 24 hours of the start of the tour means that the amount paid cannot be refunded.

How to Book the Tour

The best way to book the tour is by visiting Viator, a trusted third-party booking platform. The price of the tour starts at $41.11 per person. To book, click here to access the booking page.

Conclusion

A private walking tour is the best way to experience Cologne’s old town. With an experienced guide leading you, you can explore the city’s hidden corners and learn about its rich history and significance. Follow the tips outlined in this blog post, and plan your walking tour of Cologne today.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Cologne

Cologne is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. It has a rich history, impressive architecture, and cultural heritage that attract thousands of visitors every year from all around the world. If you’re planning a trip to Cologne, you might have some questions that need answers. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Cologne.

1. What is the best time to visit Cologne?

Cologne is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. The peak tourist season is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time, and prices tend to be higher. If you’re looking for a less crowded time to visit, consider going in the shoulder season, from March to May or from October to November. December is also a popular time to visit Cologne because of its famous Christmas markets.

2. How do I get to Cologne?

Cologne is well-connected to other parts of Germany and Europe by train, bus, and air. The city has an international airport, Cologne Bonn Airport, which is served by several airlines. If you’re coming from within Europe, you could also consider taking a train or bus. Cologne is well-connected to other European cities by high-speed trains, and there are several bus companies that operate routes to Cologne.

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

Cologne has a lot to offer visitors, from stunning churches and museums to beautiful parks and scenic river walks. Some of the top attractions in Cologne include:

• The Cologne Cathedral
• The Museum Ludwig
• The Chocolate Museum
• The Rhine promenade
• The Cologne Zoo

4. How can I save money on attractions in Cologne?

If you’re on a budget, there are several ways to save money on attractions in Cologne. Many of the city’s museums offer discounted or free admission on certain days of the week. You can also purchase a Cologne Welcome Card, which offers discounts on attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. Another option is to take a free walking tour of the city, which will give you a great introduction to some of Cologne’s top attractions.

5. What is the local cuisine in Cologne?

Cologne has a rich culinary tradition, with a variety of local dishes that you must try during your visit. Some of the most popular dishes in Cologne include:

• Rheinischer Sauerbraten – A type of pot roast made with marinated beef or horse meat
• Halve Hahn – A rye bread roll with butter, cheese, onions, and mustard
• Himmel un Äd – A dish made with mashed potatoes and apples, topped with black pudding and fried onions
• Kölsch – A local beer that is brewed only in Cologne
• Rievkooche – A potato pancake that is typically served with apple sauce or sour cream

6. How safe is Cologne?

Cologne is a safe city, and violent crime is rare. However, like in any city, there are some safety concerns that you should be aware of. Pickpocketing and theft are common in crowded tourist areas, so be sure to keep your belongings close to you. You should also avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

7. What is the weather like in Cologne?

Cologne has a moderate climate, with mild temperatures throughout most of the year. The summers are warm, with temperatures averaging around 22°C (72°F). The winters are chilly, with temperatures averaging around 3°C (37°F). The city gets an average of 10 days of rain per month, so be sure to pack accordingly.

8. Are there any day trips I can take from Cologne?

Cologne is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area, and there are several great day trips you can take from the city. Some of the top day trips from Cologne include:

• Bonn
• Düsseldorf
• The Rhine Valley
• The Eifel National Park

9. Where are the best places to stay in Cologne?

Cologne has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best areas to stay in Cologne include the Altstadt (Old Town), the Belgian Quarter, and the Rheinauhafen district. These areas have easy access to top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

10. What should I know about Cologne’s culture?

Cologne has a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant arts and music scene. The city is known for its friendly locals, who are welcoming to visitors from all over the world. One of the most important events in Cologne’s cultural calendar is the Karneval, a week-long celebration that takes place before Lent. During Karneval, the streets are filled with parades, costumes, and revelry.