Cologne is a city that loves its wine almost as much as its Kölsch beer. But if you’re looking to explore a different side of the region’s beverage scene, you’ll find plenty of great options. Whether it’s a gourmet wine tasting in Nippes or a wheeled Champagne adventure, Cologne offers experiences that go beyond just sipping. We especially like the Gourmet wine tasting with cheese platter for its intimate setting and expertly curated French wines. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, flavorful evening in a cozy French wine shop with a cheese platter to match.
If you’re more about hopping from place to place, the wine hopping experience offers a chance to taste high-quality wines across multiple restaurants, finishing with a guided tasting at Le Caveau. For a fun, energetic way to see Cologne’s sights, the winter champagne rickshaw tour delivers bubbly views and personal stories from a friendly driver, all while staying warm with a blanket.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of wine experiences, from intimate tastings in cozy shops to lively city explorations on wheels, and even seasonal mulled wine evenings. Expect gourmet French wines with cheese, wine hopping through different venues, bubbly rides in winter, and private tours with wine experts. Now, let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. Cologne-Nippes: Gourmet wine tasting with cheese platter
This gourmet wine tasting in Cologne-Nippes offers a perfect introduction to French wines, from crémant to reds, accompanied by a carefully selected cheese platter. The experience lasts around 4 hours, including a cozy stop at a French wine shop in Mauenheimer Str. 129, followed by a wine and cheese session led by an experienced connoisseur. The highlight is the intimate ambiance— candlelit and in a refined setting—that makes it feel like an evening in a Parisian cellar.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of French wines involved and the expert guidance offered. You’ll sample seven wines, paired with delicate AOP cheeses like Camembert and mild soft cheeses. The host’s background knowledge enhances the tasting, making it more than just a sip-and-savour session. Reviews praise it as a “full-on culinary delight” with “perfectly curated wines and cheeses” and an atmosphere that’s “delightfully cozy.” It’s ideal for wine lovers who appreciate French tradition and want a relaxed, social experience.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a high-quality, intimate French wine and cheese experience in a warm setting.
2. Cologne-Nippes: wine hopping (wine trip)
For around $74, the wine hopping experience is a lively way to explore Cologne’s diverse wine scene. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll visit various restaurants in Nippes, sampling a range of wines from country varieties to high-end Château wines. This tour emphasizes the fun of trying different styles and regions, all with the support of a knowledgeable sommelier guide.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of multiple venues and the opportunity to taste high-quality AOP cheeses alongside your wines. The tour balances education with a relaxed social vibe, with guests describing the night as “delicious and entertaining.” The ambiance of each location, especially with candlelit settings, enhances the experience, making it a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts who enjoy socializing and discovering new favorites.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous wine lovers who enjoy trying several wines in different settings, paired with good company and expert advice.
3. Winter Champagne Tour by Rickshaw
Imagine touring Cologne in winter, wrapped in a blanket, with a bottle of Champagne in hand—that’s exactly what the Winter Champagne Rickshaw Tour offers. Lasting 1 to 1.5 hours, this eco-friendly ride explores key sights like the Cologne Cathedral and the Old Town, with a guide sharing stories about the city’s 2000-year history.
The highlight? Touring the city from a cozy rickshaw while enjoying Champagne, with the driver providing personal insights and fun facts along the way. The tour’s appeal lies in its combination of sightseeing, a seasonal treat, and a unique, sustainable transport mode. Reviewers mention “Mathias’ friendly demeanor” and “delicious bubbly,” describing it as “a perfect way to see Cologne in winter” without losing warmth or charm.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, scenic winter outing with bubbles, history, and a bit of humor.
4. Cologne: Black wine tasting with secret station – Haus der Manufakturen
This Black Wine Tasting offers a worldwide first—tasting ten exquisite black wines, which are made from dark-skinned grapes and have a striking appearance and unique flavor profile. Held at Haus der Manufakturen, it features five stations, including a secret station that adds an element of surprise.
The experience is all about discovering exclusive flavors, matching snacks, and sampling products from over 200 manufacturers. With only two reviews, it’s a new but promising experience for those wanting something truly different. The tour is suitable for individual bookings and groups, offering a chance to enjoy an unusual tasting that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Bottom Line: Great for adventurous wine lovers who want to try something completely different and enjoy a variety of curated flavors.
5. Cologne-Nippes: Cheese and wine with champagne and Grand Cru
At number 5, this luxurious cheese and wine evening begins with a champagne toast, then proceeds to taste eight different cheeses paired with fine French wines. Led by an experienced French sommelier, the 4.5-hour event concludes with the exclusive tasting of a Grand Cru—a rare treat for serious wine connoisseurs.
Guests rave about the “delicious wines and perfect cheese pairings,” emphasizing the quality of the selection and knowledgeable guidance. The experience includes seminar documents and lively exchanges about wine and cheese, making it ideal for those who want in-depth knowledge and a refined tasting. The inclusion of champagne and a Grand Cru elevates this far above typical tastings.
Bottom Line: A top choice for lovers of French wines and cheeses seeking an elegant, educational evening.
6. From Eigelstein to Nippes: city tour and wine hike
For 4 hours, this city tour and wine hike combines history with wine tasting, walking from Eigelstein to Nippes. Along the way, you’ll visit landmarks like Agneskirche and Nippes, with three wine stops offering five wines and delicious cheese bites.
What makes this tour special is the combination of walking through Cologne’s neighborhoods and tasting at scenic stops. Though the review notes the hike can be longer and in German, the ending at a charming location with ample wine and bites makes it worthwhile. It’s suitable for those who want to combine light exercise and culture with their wine.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers interested in history and local neighborhoods, with a willingness to enjoy a longer walk.
7. Cologne-Nippes: Summer wine party in the French-style garden
Enjoy summer in Cologne with this lively French-style garden wine party. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll sip summer wines, indulge in French delicacies, and listen to French live music, all in a charming outdoor setting. It’s a festive, relaxed way to enjoy the season’s best wines with good company.
Although reviews are limited, the atmosphere is described as “fun and friendly,” perfect for those seeking a casual, social wine event. The setting by the fountain and the lively ambiance make it a memorable evening, especially for lovers of French culture and outdoor gatherings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a social, summery wine experience with regional delicacies and live music.
8. Cologne-Nippes: Winter mulled wine evening in the courtyard
For a cozy winter night, indulge in homemade mulled wine at the Winter Mulled Wine Evening. The courtyard of Le Caveau is decorated festively with Christmas trees and candles, creating a warm setting for hot mulled wine in various flavors—red, white, and non-alcoholic.
The evening features hearty snacks like cheese, ham, and salami, perfect for cold evenings. While reviews don’t specify ratings, the description suggests a convivial, seasonal experience, ideal for winter visitors looking to warm up and enjoy a cheerful festive atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a traditional, homey mulled wine experience with hearty snacks and holiday cheer.
$46 per person
9. Cologne Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert
This private wine tour offers a personalized experience with a 5-star wine expert guiding you through Cologne’s top wine bars. You’ll taste 4 to 5 German wines, including reds and whites, with the extended 3-hour version featuring paired wine appetizers.
The appeal lies in the custom approach—visiting authentic wine bars and learning about wine production firsthand. Reviewers praise the guide’s expertise and friendly manner, making this a top pick for serious wine enthusiasts seeking an in-depth, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: A premium choice for travelers who want a private, educational, and immersive tasting in Cologne’s wine bars.
$298 per person
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Cologne
Looking at these options, your choice depends on your style and interest. If you prefer an intimate, French-focused experience, the Gourmet wine tasting with cheese offers a cozy, guided evening. For a social and lively outing, the wine hopping or French summer party might be better suited. If you want something seasonal and fun, the winter Champagne rickshaw combines sightseeing with bubbly indulgence.
For a luxury experience, the Cheese and wine with Grand Cru stands out. Meanwhile, active travelers might enjoy the walking city and wine hike, and those craving privacy will appreciate the private wine tasting.
Book early, especially for popular tours like private tastings or seasonal events, and check availability for your preferred dates.
To sum it up, Cologne offers a rich variety of wine experiences that cater to different tastes—from wine and cheese lovers to adventure seekers and connoisseurs. Whether you want a cozy evening in a French wine shop or a lively city tour with bubbly, you’ll find a perfect match. Think about your budget, schedule, and whether you prefer guided, private, or outdoor activities. Ready to sip your way through Cologne? Book your favorite tour now and get ready for delicious discoveries.