5 Best Cologne Brewery Tours [Locals Pick]

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE BEST COLOGNE BREWERY TOUR?

You’ve come to the right place because I live in Cologne and I’m excited to share with you the top brewery tours in this amazing city!

Cologne is famous for its rich brewing tradition and delicious beers that have been crafted with love and passion for centuries. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just someone looking to experience something unique, a brewery tour in Cologne is an absolute must.

In this post, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the best brewery tours that the city has to offer. No matter if you’re a local resident or a visitor to Cologne, these brewery tours are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and savor its beloved drink.

So, get ready to raise your glasses and let’s embark on an adventure filled with hops, barley, and the joy of discovering new and delightful flavors. Prost! (That’s “Cheers!” in German)

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BEFORE YOU GO…..

If you are looking to make the most out of your experience in Cologne, the KölnCard is the ultimate tip. This card allows you to explore Cologne while saving money in the process.

With the KölnCard, you can travel for free on public transport and receive discounts of up to 50% from numerous partners.

So, if you’re looking for a way to make your trip to Cologne budget-friendly, be sure to get your hands on the KölnCard.

TOP 3 PICKS: BEST COLOGNE BREWERY TOURS

BEST COLOGNE BREWERY TOURS

1. The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour

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The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour is an immersive and comprehensive experience that takes you on a captivating journey through Cologne’s beer culture.

With visits to six different breweries, this tour allows you to explore the unique traditions, flavors, and stories that define Cologne’s renowned beer scene.

Starting at An der Malzmühle, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy your first Kölsch of the evening while uncovering the secrets behind the brewery responsible for brewing Mühlen Kölsch. The intriguing connection between this brewery and a well-known American adds an extra layer of fascination to the experience.

At Peters Brauhaus, a highly respected brewery in Cologne, you’ll meet the experts who care for the beer and gain valuable insights into their perspectives. As you savor your second Kölsch, knowledgeable guides will share captivating stories, providing a deeper understanding of the brewery’s history and significance.

The tour concludes at Bierhaus en d’r Salzgass, where you can savor another Kölsch or prepare for more at the next brewery. Delight in the flavors of the Päffgen Kölsch while engaging in discussions with fellow participants, sharing your preferences and thoughts. The vibrant atmosphere of the bar is further enhanced by the captivating legend surrounding the heroic figure overseeing it.

Beyond the individual brewery visits, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Kölsch culture. A visit to FRÜH am Dom, the largest brewery in Cologne’s Altstadt, offers the opportunity to sample a refreshing Kölsch while gaining valuable insights into the intricate production process.

At die FRÜH Lounge, you’ll have the pleasure of trying what many consider the oldest Kölsch in Cologne, providing a deeper appreciation for the meticulous brewing techniques and regulations that define this unique beer.

Led by enthusiastic guides who share a genuine passion for Kölsch, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour offers more than just a taste of the beer. It invites you to delve into the rich tapestry of Cologne’s brewing heritage, forging a deeper connection with the flavors, stories, and individuals that have shaped Kölsch brewing into the beloved tradition it is today.

Meeting Point

Equestrian statue of Friedrich Wilhelm III.
Heumarkt 43, 50667 Cologne, Germany

Good to know

• Price: From 30.00 € per person
• Duration: 3 hours
• Tour Guide: Offered in Englisch, German
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not suitable for guests under 18 years old
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

2. Cologne Brewery Tour with Three “Kölsch” Tastings

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The Cologne Brewery Tour offers a delightful and immersive experience, allowing you to explore the city and its brewing culture. With visits to renowned breweries such as Früh am Dom, Gilden im Zims, and Gilden im Zims, you can indulge in the rich flavors of three distinct Kölsch beers.

You can expect a thoughtfully curated itinerary, tailored by knowledgeable guides who possess a deep understanding of Kölsch beer. The guides have the flexibility to select breweries based on the group’s preferences, ensuring that everyone is engaged and satisfied throughout the tour.

Beyond the delightful tasting experiences, the tour delves into the history and brewing culture of Cologne. You gain insights into the brewing traditions passed down through generations, with visits to esteemed establishments like the 700-year-old Brauhaus Sion and the thriving Früh am Dom, Cologne’s largest brewery.

The Cologne Brewery Tour allows you to immerse yourselves in the time-honored art of brewing while traversing the captivating streets of this remarkable city.

Meeting Point

At Kreuzblumen Monument
The monument is approximately 150 meters/500 feet in front of the cathedral’s grand entrance.

Good to know

• Price: From 25.50 € per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tour Guide: Offered in Englisch, German
• Participants must be at least 16 years of age to drink beer according to German law
• The itinerary given in the description is a sample and might vary
• The guides have the flexibility to choose which places will be visited according to the guests’ wishes

3. Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Cologne

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During this tour, you will visit four different breweries: Brauerei zur Malzmühle, Gilden im Zims “Heimat kölscher Helden,” Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch, and Bierhaus en d’r Salzgass. The tour lasts approximately two hours, providing you with plenty of time to enjoy the experience.

If you are unfamiliar with Cologne’s unconventional brewhouse etiquette, don’t worry. The knowledgeable guide will explain the ordering process and, most importantly, teach you how to indicate when you have had enough to drink. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of this local tradition.

At each brewery, you’ll have the opportunity to savor a glass of kölsch, the renowned beer style of Cologne. The best part is that you can compare and contrast kölsch from four different producers, discovering the unique characteristics of each brew.

During the tour, your guide will also share interesting insights into local beer-drinking customs. Feel free to socialize with your fellow beer aficionados and make new friends along the way. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Cologne’s vibrant beer scene.

Meeting Point

The Kölsch Crew – Brauhaustour
Heumarkt 39, 50667 Cologne

Good to know

• Price: From 19.00 € per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tour Guide: Offered in Englisch, German, Spanisch
• Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

4. Old Town Brewhouse Tour

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The tour starts at the designated meeting point, where you will be welcomed by your guide. They will accompany you to four distinct traditional beer houses located in Cologne’s Old Town. In each of these establishments, you will have the opportunity to savor a different Kölsch, the locally brewed beer that has become a hallmark of the city.

As you take a moment to relax within the brewhouses, a wealth of knowledge about Kölsch, Cologne, and the local way of life will be imparted by your guide. Throughout the leisurely 2-hour tour, your guide will share personal anecdotes and intriguing facts about this historic city and its exceptional beer culture.

Your guide may even disclose a closely guarded local secret, providing insight into the reason why the person serving beer in Cologne is not known as a waiter and the distinct attitude they embody.

Whether you are a beer enthusiast or an inquisitive traveler, this brewery tour promises an exciting expedition through Cologne’s brewing traditions, set against the backdrop of the captivating Old Town.

Meeting Point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Good to know

• Price: From 19.00 € per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tour Guide: Offered in Englisch, German, Spanisch
• Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Private or small groups available
• This tour will take place rain or shine
• Kölsch tastings are not included in the private option, so you will have the flexibility to purchase as many or as few drinks as you wish

5. Old Town Private Brewhouse Tour

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In this special private brewery tour, the focus is on the famous Kölsch beer. Just like Champagne, Kölsch is a special kind of beer that only certain brewers in the Cologne Brewers Association can make. You will have the chance to explore the beer scene in the city and visit the best breweries.

An experienced local guide will lead the way and make sure the tour is tailored to your group’s interests. You will visit the top spots to try the most exceptional Kölsch beers in the world. As you walk through Old Town Cologne, a place with a long history of making Kölsch for over 1,000 years, you will experience the rich traditions of this beloved beer.

Get ready to taste different Kölsch beers as you visit up to four famous breweries in the city. Each brewery has its own special way of making Kölsch. The tour is exclusively for your group, so you’ll have a personalized experience. Your guide will listen to your preferences and make sure the tour is just right for you.

Join this private brewery tour and discover the secrets of Kölsch, a unique beer that represents the spirit of Cologne. Learn about the craftsmanship, history, and different flavors that make this beer special. It’s a special chance to explore Cologne’s beer culture and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience with your group.

Meeting Point

Heumarkt 39
50667 Cologne

Good to know

• Price: From 180.00 € per group
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tour Guide: Offered in Englisch, German, Spanisch
• Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the famous beer in Cologne?

The famous beer in Cologne is called “Kölsch.” It is a pale, top-fermented beer with a distinctive light and clear appearance.

The beer is traditionally served in small, cylindrical glasses known as “Stangen” to maintain its freshness and to encourage a sociable, communal drinking experience.

Kölsch is more than just a beer; it is a symbol of the city’s culture and tradition. Locals take great pride in their local brew, and visitors to Cologne often make it a point to try this iconic beverage as part of their experience in the city.

What makes Kölsch unique is also the way it is served. In Cologne, there is a particular method of serving Kölsch in local pubs and beer houses. Waiters, known as “Köbes,” go around with a special tray containing small glasses of Kölsch. As soon as your glass is empty, they will promptly replace it with a fresh one, without you even needing to ask.

How many breweries are there in Cologne?

Today, there are a total of ten Kölsch breweries in Cologne. In addition, there are a total of 17 different Kölsch brands available.

How strong is Kölsch beer?

Kölsch beer typically has a moderate alcohol content. It is generally lighter in strength compared to some other beer styles, making it quite sessionable and suitable for easy drinking. The alcohol by volume of Kölsch beer typically ranges from around 4.8% to 5.4%.

What does Kolsch beer taste like?

Kölsch beer has a distinct and unique taste profile that sets it apart from other beer styles. It is known for its light, crisp, and refreshing flavor.

Is a Kölsch a lager or an ale?

Kölsch is a pale, top-fermented, clear, and hop-forward full-bodied beer with an alcohol content of about 4.8 percent. What makes it unique is the brewing process.

For Kölsch, a specific top-fermenting yeast is used, which requires fermentation temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. This yeast floats to the top after the brewing process and can be easily skimmed off.

Surprisingly, even though Alt, another traditional beer style from the region, is much darker, it is also a top-fermented beer, while pale Pilsner, in contrast, is bottom-fermented.

How much is a Kölsch in Cologne?

The price of a Kölsch beer in Cologne can vary depending on the location where you are purchasing it. In general, the cost of a Kölsch in a typical pub or beer house in Cologne can range from around 2.20 to 2.40 euros for a 0.2-liter glass (“Stange”).

Why is it called Kölsch?

The name “Kölsch” is derived from its city of origin, Cologne (Köln in German). The term “Kölsch” is both the name of the beer style and the regional dialect spoken in Cologne.

IF COLOGNE BREWERY TOURS AREN’T FOR YOU…..

After reading this, you might not want to join a Cologne Brewery Tour after all.

If so, check out the articles linked below. Cologne offers activities for every age and every taste.

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