When you think of Cologne, the first images that might come to mind are the iconic cathedral, the scenic Rhine River, or maybe the lively Christmas markets. But if you’re craving an authentic taste of the city’s current vibe, the Night PubCrawl Shots and Party offers a lively, social evening in Cologne’s trendiest district. For about four hours, you’ll hop between four different bars, each with its own unique character, enjoying free shots, great music, and the chance to meet fellow travelers and locals alike.
This tour, priced reasonably considering what’s included, is mainly aimed at those looking for a fun, social night rather than a historical or cultural experience. We love the fact that the guides are knowledgeable and energetic, making sure everyone gets the most out of the night. Another highlight is the free shots at each stop, which add a festive touch to the evening. On the downside, some might find the focus on bars that seem somewhat repetitive, especially if you’re hoping for a broader taste of Cologne’s nightlife.
This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy socializing, lively atmospheres, and casual nights out. If you’re traveling with friends, or even on your own and eager to connect, this pub crawl can be a highlight of your trip. Keep in mind, it’s not a sightseeing tour — so come ready to party, not explore historical sites.
Key Points
- Four trendy bars in Cologne’s party district are visited, each offering free shots.
- Guided by knowledgeable hosts who help keep the energy high and the night flowing.
- Includes club entry, allowing you to continue dancing after the crawl.
- Duration of about 4 hours makes it a manageable, yet lively evening.
- Great for social travelers, especially those eager to meet new people.
- Not a sightseeing tour, so focus your expectations on fun, drinks, and socializing.
The Itinerary in Detail
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Starting Point: Herz Jesu Church
The crawl kicks off in front of the Herz Jesu Church, a recognizable local landmark, with guides wearing tour-logo bags so you can easily spot them. From here, you’ll get your VIP wristband, which grants you access to the bars and free shots along the way. The initial meeting point sets a friendly tone for the night ahead — expect a mix of fellow travelers and locals all eager to start the night.
Bar Stops: Four Unique Venues
The tour includes visits to four different bars in Cologne’s trendiest party district. While the specific names aren’t provided, the descriptions suggest a mix of popular spots and hidden gems, each offering a different vibe. The first bar, which we loved for its lively atmosphere, is the jumping-off point for your pub crawl adventure.
The Hidden Gems & Guided Tours
Two of the stops are described as “hidden gems” and are visited during guided tours of about an hour each. These sections are an excellent chance to get behind the scenes or enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. The guides help enhance these moments, sharing insights about each location and the broader nightlife scene in Cologne.
More Great Tours NearbySelf-Guided Final Stop
The last hidden gem is a self-guided experience, giving you a chance to explore on your own or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance. This flexible segment can be a highlight, especially if you’ve struck a good rhythm with your new friends.
The Final Bar & End of the Night
The tour wraps up back at the meeting point, with plenty of time to stay and enjoy the music or dance into the early hours. Since the tour includes club entry, you can seamlessly continue your night without worrying about lines or additional costs.
What’s Included & What’s Not
Included:
- Welcome shots at the meeting point to get you started.
- One free shot at each of the four bars.
- Free shots all night while stocks last, enhancing the fun and social vibe.
- A pub crawl guide ensuring the group stays energized and organized.
- Club entry, for those who want to extend their night dancing.
Not Included:
- Additional drinks beyond the free shots.
- Guided sightseeing or city tours, as this is primarily a party-focused activity.
How the Tour Works
The pub crawl runs on Fridays and Saturdays, with specific start times depending on availability. After receiving your VIP wristband, you’ll move from bar to bar, spending about an hour at each. The guides are bilingual (English and German), which is helpful for international travelers. The entire experience is designed to maximize fun, especially if you value meeting new people and enjoy lively environments.
Practicalities & Tips
Meeting Point & End Location
Located in front of Herz Jesu Church on Zülpicher Pl., the meeting point is easy to find thanks to the tour guide’s recognizable bag. Remember to bring your passport or ID, as proof of age is typically required for alcohol consumption and club entry.
Duration & Group Size
The 4-hour duration offers a balance of lively fun without getting too tiring. Group sizes tend to be manageable, creating an intimate yet energetic environment. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach help foster a welcoming atmosphere.
Price & Value
While the exact cost isn’t specified here, considering the included benefits — free shots, guide services, and club entry — the price offers good value for travelers looking to enjoy Cologne’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each bar visit.
Authentic Traveler Insights & Feedback
With a rating of 4.1 based on 19 reviews, most participants find the tour entertaining and well-organized. Jana, a recent participant, mentioned, “It was very entertaining… It was a humorous experience.” She also appreciated the guides’ humor and friendly approach.
However, some feedback points out that repeating the same club three times could be less exciting for some, as one review noted. Still, the overall vibe remains positive, especially for those keen on socializing and trying different bars in a vibrant district.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This pub crawl is perfect for travelers who want to add some lively social fun to their trip. It suits groups of friends, solo travelers eager to meet others, or anyone looking to see Cologne’s nightlife in a relaxed, guided setting. If you prefer quiet, cultural evenings, this may not be your best fit, but if you’re ready for a night of energetic drinks, music, and new friends, it’s a solid choice.
The Sum Up
The Cologne Night PubCrawl Shots and Party offers a fun, social way to experience a slice of the city’s nightlife. With knowledgeable guides, free shots, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, it’s a good value for those wanting a lively night out without the stress of planning each stop. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to meet people and enjoy Cologne’s energetic party scene.
While it’s not a tour for sightseeing or cultural exploration, it provides a memorable way to start or end your evening in Cologne. If you’re looking for a straightforward, lively night with plenty of opportunities to socialize, this pub crawl might be just what you need.
FAQs
How long does the pub crawl last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable and fun evening without feeling overly long.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during weekends, to secure availability and flexibility with payment.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes welcome shots, one free shot at each bar, free shots while on the move (stocks last), a guide, and club entry at the end.
Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since free shots and alcohol are part of the experience, it’s best suited for those who are of legal drinking age and comfortable with alcohol consumption.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers enjoy these pub crawls as they provide an excellent opportunity to meet new people and socialize.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for age verification, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for moving between bars and possibly dancing.
Does the tour focus on sightseeing?
No, this is primarily a party experience. Expect lively bars and socializing rather than sightseeing or cultural commentary.
In essence, if you’re seeking a lively, social night out in Cologne, with friendly guides and the chance for some fun and drinks, the Night PubCrawl Shots and Party is a reliable choice. Just come ready to enjoy, dance, and make some new friends along the way.
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