Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots

If you’re heading to Cologne and want to experience its lively bar scene firsthand, the Pub Crawl Cologne offers a practical and fun way to do just that. For around $28 per person, you’ll spend a night hopping through some of the city’s best bars and underground venues, all while enjoying free admission and a shot at each stop. The tour usually lasts around one day, starting at Club Goldfinger on Friesenstrasse — known for its energetic atmosphere — and weaving through at least 4 different venues.

What we love most about this experience are the diverse selection of bars that include some hidden gems most locals might not even know about, plus the engaging guides like Markus and Kadir, who bring the city’s nightlife to life with stories, humor, and warmth. It’s clear that the guides are passionate about making sure everyone feels included and has a good time, which turns a simple bar hop into a memorable social event.

One thing to keep in mind is that additional drinks are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget extra if you’re planning to indulge. Also, dress appropriately and be prepared to show your ID, as the tour enforces a minimum age of 18 and a no-drunk policy at the start for safety and enjoyment.

This tour is perfect for solo travelers looking to meet international friends, groups wanting a structured night out, or anyone curious about Cologne’s thriving nightlife scene. If you love lively atmospheres, storytelling guides, and discovering local hotspots, this pub crawl could be your top choice.

Key Points

• Includes free admission to multiple bars and clubs, saving you time and money.
• A shot at every venue to kick off the night with some added fun.
• Guides Markus and Kadir are highly praised for their energy, humor, and storytelling.
• Diverse bar selection, including underground locations unknown to many travelers.
• Great for meeting people from around the world in a lively, social setting.
• Age restriction of 18+ and dress code considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cologne Pub Crawl Experience

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

At just $28, this tour offers a straightforward way to sample Cologne’s nightlife without worrying about entry fees or waiting in lines. The free admission to each bar or club means you can focus on enjoying your night rather than fussing over cover charges, especially at popular spots that might otherwise be crowded or expensive.

Adding to the value, each participant receives a free shot at every venue, which not only keeps the momentum going but also helps break the ice among strangers. The guided experience allows for socializing and learning about the city’s bar scene from knowledgeable locals or guides who are well-versed in the nightlife’s ins and outs.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour starts at Club Goldfinger on Friesenstrasse, a well-known hotspot for its lively vibe. From there, your guides — often Markus or Kadir — lead the group through a mix of well-loved bars and hidden underground locations that even some locals might not know. The atmosphere varies from cozy pubs to energetic dance venues, giving you a well-rounded taste of what Cologne’s nightlife has to offer.

While the exact number of venues can vary, the tour guarantees visits to at least 4 bars or clubs, each with its unique character. Reviewers mention the diversity of the venues as a highlight — from lively karaoke bars to stylish dance clubs. The guides’ storytelling adds a layer of cultural context, helping you appreciate each venue’s vibe and history.

The Guides: Making the Night Special

Many reviews highlight Markus and Kadir as the standout guides, praised for their energy, humor, and attention to detail. They ensure everyone is involved and comfortable, creating a welcoming atmosphere that often turns into lasting friendships. One reviewer described Markus as a “master storyteller”, who brought each location to life, and Kadir as someone who kept the good vibes flowing with wit and warmth.

Guides are also attentive to safety, as drunkenness at the start can result in no admission, emphasizing the importance of pacing yourself. They’re skilled at managing a diverse group, often with participants from multiple countries, which adds a fun multicultural element.

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The Social Aspect: Meeting International Travelers

One of the biggest appeals of this tour is meeting people from around the world. Travelers have described the experience as “a great way to socialize”, with many forming friendships or even planning to meet again during their trip. The shared experience of enjoying drinks, stories, and dancing makes for a natural bonding experience.

The Atmosphere and Venue Quality

Expect a mix of local favorites and underground locations. Many reviewers appreciated discovering spots that locals frequent but travelers might miss, making this tour a unique way to get a sense of authentic Cologne nightlife. The venues are generally praised for their atmosphere, music, and drink quality — with some reviewers highlighting the cheap Kölsch beer and good music selections.

Practical Considerations

Being a 1-day activity, the pub crawl is flexible to fit within your travel plans. The start times vary, so checking availability in advance is recommended. The tour is suited for those over 18, and you’ll need to dress appropriately as some venues may have dress codes.

If you’re not a big drinker, non-alcoholic options are available, and guides are attentive to participants’ needs. Remember, additional drinks are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to explore beyond the shots offered.

Why It Works Well for Travelers

The organized nature of the tour means you won’t waste time figuring out where to go or waiting in line. The small group size and enthusiastic guides foster a relaxed environment perfect for socializing. The combination of storytelling, underground venues, and friendly guides create a memorable night that balances fun with cultural insight.

Possible Downsides or Considerations

Some reviews mention the disappearance of guides after certain stops, which can be slightly unsettling but seems to be an exception rather than the norm. Also, extra drinks are on you, so if you’re a big drinker, budget more for your night. The minimum participant requirement (10 people) could mean cancellations if not enough book, so planning ahead is advisable.

Who Should Book This Pub Crawl?

This experience is ideal for solo travelers eager to meet international friends, groups of friends looking for a lively night out, or anyone curious about Cologne’s nightlife but wanting a little guidance to discover hidden gems. If you prefer structured social activities with a fun, energetic atmosphere, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 or older to participate, which is standard for pub crawl activities involving alcohol.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately, as some bars may have dress codes and you’ll want to enjoy the night comfortably.

Are drinks included besides the shots?
No, additional drinks are not included, so you’ll need to buy your own if you want to continue drinking beyond the free shots.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Club Goldfinger on Friesenstrasse 54 and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour available in different languages?
Yes, the guides speak English and German, accommodating international guests.

Final Thoughts

The Pub Crawl Cologne offers a lively, social way to explore the city’s nightlife on a budget, with the added bonus of free entry and shots at vibrant venues. Its carefully curated selection of bars, combined with guides who bring energy and local knowledge, makes it an excellent option for anyone looking to enjoy Cologne after dark.

If you love discovering hidden venues, meeting international travelers, and having a fun, structured night out, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for social travelers who thrive in energetic atmospheres and are ready to experience Cologne’s beer culture and nightlife scene firsthand.

For a night packed with good company, storytelling, and authentic local experiences, this pub crawl is both value-for-money and a memorable highlight of your Cologne trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: