Cologne isn’t just about its stunning cathedral; it’s a city that breathes beer culture in every cobbled street and lively pub. If you’re curious about Kölsch, Cologne’s light and crisp local brew, you’re in luck—there are many excellent ways to explore the city’s beer scene. We’re especially fond of the Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings, which combines local history with three different pubs, giving a genuine taste of Cologne’s brewing heritage. Or perhaps the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour appeals if you want a personalized experience visiting iconic breweries in a relaxed setting. Whatever your style, Cologne’s drinking tours reveal the city’s heart—and its love for good, cold beer.
Quick Overview
Cologne offers a variety of drinking experiences: traditional brewery tours, pub crawls, beer tastings, and even festive Christmas market visits. For those wanting to learn about Köln’s brewing culture, tours like the 3 Old Town Breweries Guided Walking Tour provide charming walks paired with authentic local beers. If you prefer a lively night out, the Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots promises an energetic journey through the city’s top bars. For something more interactive, try Axe Throwing & Enjoying Drinks in Cologne’s First Axe Throwing Bar, combining fun with a drink. Below, we detail each tour so you can pick the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Cologne: Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings
At number 1, this Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings offers an excellent introduction to Cologne’s beer scene. For about $31, you’ll spend two hours exploring the city’s brewing culture, visiting three different pubs starting at Kreuzblume. The tour is highly rated (4.7/5 from over 2,300 reviews) thanks to lively guides like Emre and Helena, who share funny stories, legends, and local traditions. Guests especially praise the variety of Kölsch served and the friendly atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of historical storytelling and beer tasting. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, social experience with fellow beer lovers from around the world. If you’re keen to learn about Cologne’s brewing legends while sampling local beer, this tour offers great value and a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers who want to enjoy three different pubs with a fun guide and strong social vibe.
2. Cologne: Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting and Halven Hahn
Number 2 on our list, this Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting and Halven Hahn combines a walk through the old town with tasting four varieties of Kölsch and a traditional Halven Hahn sandwich. Priced at $33, it lasts two hours and offers a rustic, authentic experience as you discover Cologne’s brewing secrets. Guests love how this tour includes stories about the city’s unique beer traditions and anecdotes about the historic breweries.
The highlight is the chance to sample four Kölsch varieties in a warm, traditional brewery atmosphere. Plus, the pairing with the Halven Hahn—a dense rye bread with cheese and meats—adds a local culinary twist. It’s particularly suited for those who want a balanced mix of beer and local food culture.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies and beer enthusiasts eager to taste multiple Kölsch varieties while seeing Cologne’s old-town charm.
3. Cologne: Kölsch Beer and Brew House 2-Hour Tour
At number 3, this Kölsch Beer and Brew House 2-Hour Tour offers a guided journey through historic brew houses in Cologne’s Alter Markt. For just $22, you’ll visit three brew pubs, tasting three Kölsch beers and learning about local brewing traditions. Guests frequently mention how the insider tips on local sights and drinking habits make this a valuable tour.
What makes this option appealing is its focus on Cologne’s iconic brew pubs, providing a taste of the authentic local drinking scene. It’s a good choice for travelers interested in the city’s beer culture but who want a more intimate, small-group feel.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers looking for a straightforward, fun brewery crawl with insider tips on Cologne’s beer scene.
4. The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour
Number 4, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour offers a relaxed, personalized experience visiting three famous brew houses. Limited to 10 guests, it guarantees personal attention. The tour includes tastings at each brewery and insights into brewing history, all for around $33. The guide, a fellow beer lover, makes it a lively, engaging experience.
Guests rave about the friendly guides and the chance to learn about Cologne’s brewing culture in a relaxed setting. The tour lasts 2 to 3 hours, allowing time to savor each beer and absorb the stories behind them.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a small-group, in-depth look at Cologne’s brewing icons with a personal touch.
5. Cologne: 3 Old Town Breweries Guided Walking Tour
Number 5, the 3 Old Town Breweries Guided Walking Tour takes you through historic gems in Cologne’s charming old town. For $28, the two-hour walk includes visits to three cozy breweries, with tastings of Kölsch at each stop. The guide’s storytelling about the local brewing traditions and old town sights like Heinzelmännchenbrunnen makes this a well-rounded cultural experience.
Guests appreciate the friendly guide Markus and the opportunity to see some of Cologne’s most picturesque streets. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed walk that combines history, local beers, and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history-minded travelers who want a leisurely, authentic brewery experience.
6. Public Brewery Tour in Cologne in English
Number 6, the Public Brewery Tour in Cologne in English is a straightforward, budget-friendly option at about $20.53. Lasting around two hours, this tour covers Cologne’s essential breweries like Malzmühle, Sion, and Sankt Andreas. Guests love its informal vibe and the opportunity to follow the steps of beer drinking etiquette in local spots.
The tour is especially suited for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting a quick, affordable immersion in Cologne’s beer culture. Reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Chris make it fun and informative.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking an affordable, lively introduction to Cologne’s beer scene without sacrificing authenticity.
7. Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour with 1 Brewery Visit & 1 Beer
Number 7, the Old Town Walking Tour with 1 Brewery Visit & 1 Beer combines sightseeing with beer tasting. For just $20, this two-hour tour guides you through key sites like the Fish Market and Heumarkt, ending with a visit to a traditional brewery. It’s perfect if you want to explore Cologne’s history and culture along with sampling Kölsch.
Guests find the tour lively, with guides who share engaging stories about the city’s history and beer traditions. It’s ideal if you prefer a shorter, more focused experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a quick dose of local history paired with a single brewery visit.
8. Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots
Number 8, the Pub Crawl Cologne promises a fun, energetic night out. For $28, you’re taken to some of the hottest bars and underground locations, with free admission and a shot at each stop. Guides Markus and Kadir are praised for their energy, humor, and storytelling.
This tour is best if you want to experience Cologne’s nightlife with a lively group and enjoy free drinks along the way. The reviews highlight how it’s an unforgettable way to meet people and see the city after dark.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls and social travelers seeking a lively bar-hopping experience.
9. Entertaining Brewery Tour: Feel Good Package including local beer
Number 9, the Entertaining Brewery Tour offers a lively two-hour experience starting near Cologne Cathedral. It visits famous breweries like Sion and Früh am Dom, with plenty of fun facts along the way. The tour includes three Kölsch beers and visits some of Cologne’s most renowned beer houses.
Guests praise Lukas’ enthusiasm and the engaging storytelling, making it more than just a drinking tour. With a focus on fun and local culture, it’s great for those wanting an energetic, social outing.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a lively, entertaining tour that combines beer tasting with city sights.
10. Cologne Christmas Market and Kölsch Beer Small-Group Tour
Number 10 is a festive favorite during the holiday season. The Christmas Market & Kölsch Beer Tour combines holiday cheer with local brews in a small-group setting. For $21, the three-hour tour starts at Brauerei zur Malzmühle and visits several enchanting markets, sampling mulled wine and Kölsch.
It’s perfect if you want to soak up Christmas spirit while enjoying the warmth of local beer. Reviewers love the cozy atmosphere and Bernie’s friendly guidance.
Bottom Line: Best suited for holiday travelers wanting a warm, festive beer experience.
11. Informative and Fun Brewery Tour in German, Public
Number 11 offers a German-language brewery tour for those comfortable with German. At about $23, it provides a lively two-hour exploration of Cologne’s breweries, with guides sharing facts and humor. It’s a good choice for German speakers eager to deepen their understanding of local beer culture.
Since the guide is experienced, this tour is lively and educational, appealing to those wanting a more immersive experience in their native language.
Bottom Line: Ideal for German-speaking travelers seeking a fun, authentic brewery experience.
12. Cologne: Kölsch Brewery Tour with 3 Beers Included
Number 12, this Kölsch Brewery Tour with 3 Beers Included lasts 2.5 to 3 hours, exploring historic breweries. For $33, it visits several hidden and iconic spots, offering a deeper look at Cologne’s brewing scene. The tour emphasizes lesser-known spots loved by locals and guides who are passionate about beer.
Guests appreciate the chance to taste lesser-known favorites and learn about the city’s brewing past. It’s perfect for those who want more than the usual tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Best for serious beer enthusiasts eager to discover Cologne’s hidden brewing treasures.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Cologne
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, how much walking you’re comfortable with, and whether you want a laid-back tasting, a lively pub crawl, or a cultural exploration. For example, if you love traditional breweries and storytelling, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour offers a personal touch. If nightlife is your scene, the Pub Crawl Cologne is lively and social. During the Christmas season, the Christmas Market & Kölsch Beer Tour combines holiday cheer with local drinks.
Practical tips include booking early for popular tours, especially during festive seasons, and choosing between guided tours or independent pub crawls depending on your group size and comfort level. For those interested in a comprehensive experience, combining a brewery tour with a walk through Cologne’s old town can be very rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Cologne offers an impressive array of drinking tours, from casual brewery visits and lively pub crawls to festive Christmas market experiences. Whether you’re a beer novice or a seasoned connoisseur, there’s something for all. For a relaxed, insightful introduction, the Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings is hard to beat. For a more personalized experience, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour offers a cozy, small-group setting.
For those who want to experience Cologne’s nightlife, the Pub Crawl promises an unforgettable evening. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss the Christmas Market & Kölsch Beer Tour. Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these fun, authentic experiences in Cologne.