5 Best Cologne Food Tours [Locals Pick]

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE BEST COLOGNE FOOD TOUR?

You’ve come to the right place! I’m from Cologne, and I’m super excited to show you the most delicious food experiences in this amazing city.

In this article, we’ll explore the yummiest foods you can try here. It doesn’t matter if you love food, enjoy traveling, or just want to try new things – this guide has something for everyone!

We’ll try traditional German dishes and tasty treats from all around the world. Cologne’s food is a mix of different flavors and cultures, and we’ll discover the best food tours that will make you very happy and full! So let’s start this yummy journey together. Cheers! 🍻

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TOP 3 PICKS: BEST COLOGNE FOOD TOURS

BEST COLOGNE FOOD TOURS

1. Traditional German Food and Cologne Old Town Private Tour

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Get ready for a tasty adventure in Cologne! Explore famous places like Town Hall, Cologne Cathedral, and more charming Old Town spots. But that’s not all – you will also be taken to hidden gems where the locals love to eat.

Get ready to try yummy German dishes and beers while learning about the local culture and traditions from knowledgeable local food experts. There are three different tour options, so you can pick the one that suits your preferences and interests the best.

2,5-hour: Food Tasting Tour at 2 venues – Choose this walking tour of Cologne’s Old Town to visit 1 traditional restaurant for a full meal with a soft drink, and 1 patisserie for a dessert with a cup of tea/coffee.

3,5-hour: Food Tasting Tour at 3 venues – Choose this tasting experience to visit 2 restaurants & 1 patissiere in Cologne’s Old Town. Try traditional German dishes & desserts with 1 coffee/tea, 1 soft drink and 1 beer.

5-hour: Food & Beer Tasting Tour at 4 venues – Choose this tour to become a German food & beer expert! Discover Old Town highlights & visit 4 restaurants, where you will try a variety of traditional dishes, desserts & beverages, including 8 beers.

GOOD TO KNOW

💰 Price: From €311.50 per group

🕑 Duration: 2 – 5 hours

🧑 Live Tour Guide: German, Russian, English, Italian, French, Spanish

👱‍♂️ Infants must sit on laps

🍕 Please advise the tour operator in advance of any dietary requirements, such as food allergies or vegetarian options

🍗 The golden rule in Germany is to serve enough food for the table to collapse, so we recommended joining the tour on an empty stomach to be able to enjoy each of the dishes

👩‍🦼 Wheelchair accessible

👩‍🦯 Stroller accessible

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

2. Sharing Plate Food Tour in Cologne

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This tour will take you on a fantastic food adventure in Cologne! You’ll get the chance to discover 3-4 special local places that only insiders know about. Along the way, you’ll taste yummy samples from different restaurants, cafes, and local spots, all while sharing unique dishes with fellow food lovers.

But it doesn’t stop there – this tour offers more than just delicious bites. You’ll also learn about diverse food cultures and receive secret restaurant tips that even the locals don’t know. It’s like having an insider’s guide to the city’s best culinary experiences!

So, get ready to try special signature dishes and immerse yourself in a multicultural culinary journey right here in Cologne. This is a wonderful opportunity to make tasty memories and explore flavors from around the world!

GOOD TO KNOW

💰 Price: From €69.90 per person

🕑 Duration: 4.5 hours

✔ Start Time: 1 pm

🧑 Live Tour Guide: German, English

🤰 Not recommended for pregnant travelers

⛔ Not recommended for travelers with back problems

💗 No heart problems or other serious medical conditions

👩‍🦼 Not wheelchair accessible

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers

3. 3-Hour Südstadt Food Tour

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This delightful 3-hour walking tour starts right at the heart of the Südstadt in Chlodwigplatz.

As you begin your journey, you’ll learn some interesting facts about the district’s culinary delights. While strolling along, your tour guide will share the fascinating history of the Südstadt, adding depth to our experience. You will make a stop at an international gastronomical spot for your a delicious treat.

As you’ll pass by, you’ll get a chance to explore cool second-hand shops, comic book stores, and even the famous Mangal Döner, a project by the renowned soccer player Lukas Podolski.

Another stop will be at an authentic Cologne brewery, where you’ll get a taste of the city’s unique beer culture and will enjoy a typical Cologne snack.

Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guide will share insider knowledge and fascinating stories about the House Balchem, St. Severin, and some interesting tales from the wrong side of the Rhine.

But that’s not all! You’ll be treated to another delightful international delicacy.

GOOD TO KNOW

💰 Price: From € 450 per group up to 10

🕑 Duration: 3 hours

🧑 Live Tour Guide: German, Englisch

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Private group available

👩‍🦼 The tour is not suitable for individuals using wheelchairs or rolling walkers.

🧒 The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years of age.

4. Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting and Halven Hahn

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This tour will take you on a delightful journey through the charming Old Town, where you’ll experience the art of brewing. The guided brewery tour will introduce you to four typical breweries, each holding a rich history and unique stories.

You will discover the fascinating reasons why people often come to Cologne’s breweries and unravel the mystery of why ordering water might not be the best choice in these lively establishments.

While exploring the breweries, you will have the chance to savor a traditional Halver Hahn – a treat comprising half a rye roll topped with a combination of butter, cheese, mustard, and onions.

GOOD TO KNOW

💰 Price: From €28.00 per person

🕑 Duration: 2

🧑 Live Tour Guide: German

👱‍♂️ Infants must sit on laps

🍕 Please advise the tour operator in advance of any dietary requirements, such as food allergies or vegetarian options

🍗 The golden rule in Germany is to serve enough food for the table to collapse, so we recommended joining the tour on an empty stomach to be able to enjoy each of the dishes

👩‍🦼 Wheelchair accessible

👩‍🦯 Stroller accessible

5. Cologne Kölsch Beer and Christmas Market Tour

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During this small group walking tour you will experience the magic of Christmas in Cologne, led by a friendly guide who knows all the best spots!

You’ll kick off the tour at a traditional brewhouse, where you’ll savor some local appetizers and enjoy the famous Kölsch beer.

As you wander through the city, you’ll visit several charming Christmas markets. Warm up your hands and heart with a cup of delightful spiced wine, and listen to your guide’s insights about Cologne.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to sample different mulled wines or even try a flaming feuerzangenbowle – a traditional and spectacular German treat.

The tour will culminate at a local brewhouse, where you can treat yourself to a hearty meal, rounding off the evening in the coziest way possible.

💰 Price: From €34.00 per person

🕑 Duration: 3 hours

🧑 Live Tour Guide: German, Englisch

BEST COLOGNE FOOD TOURS – FINAL THOUGHTS

When booking a Cologne Food Tour, there are plenty of options to choose from.

While most Cologne Food Tours take you through traditional brewhouses, there are also tours that explore neighborhoods like Südstadt and visit lesser-known local spots. Additionally, food tours that lead you through the famous Cologne Christmas markets are popular among tourists.

However, even on Cologne Food Tours where you are served traditional Cologne dishes like Halven Han and Himmel und Äd, don’t assume that locals in Cologne eat these dishes every day. These meals are mostly found in traditional restaurants and are not representative of what the average Cologne family eats on a daily basis.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What food is Cologne famous for?

Cologne is famous for several traditional dishes that reflect the city’s rich culinary heritage. Some of the most notable foods include:

1. Kölsch Beer: While not a food per se, Kölsch beer is the most famous beverage associated with Cologne. This pale, top-fermented beer is served in small, cylindrical glasses and has a unique brewing tradition in the city.
2. Halver Hahn: A popular snack or light meal, Halver Hahn is a rye roll with butter, Gouda cheese, mustard, and onions. Despite its name (“half a chicken” in English), it does not contain chicken but is a classic Cologne treat.
3. Himmel und Äd: This traditional dish consists of black pudding (blood sausage) with mashed potatoes and apple sauce. The name translates to “heaven and earth,” symbolizing the combination of ingredients from the ground (potatoes) and the air (apples).
4. Rheinischer Sauerbraten: A pot roast typically made with beef or horse meat, marinated in a mixture of vinegar or wine, and seasoned with various spices. It is often served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.
5. Kölsche Kaviar: Also known as “Cologne caviar,” this refers to black pudding or blood sausage, which is a key ingredient in various traditional dishes.
6. Reibekuchen: Similar to potato pancakes or fritters, Reibekuchen are made from grated potatoes, onions, and eggs, then fried until crispy. They are typically served with applesauce.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique foods that Cologne is known for. Exploring the local cuisine is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and traditions.

What are three common food in Germany?

Germany has a diverse and rich culinary tradition, but three common and popular foods found throughout the country are:

1. Bratwurst: Bratwurst is a type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It is seasoned with various herbs and spices, then grilled, fried, or cooked. Bratwurst is often served with sauerkraut, mustard, and a side of bread or potatoes.
2. Schnitzel: Schnitzel is a breaded and deep-fried cutlet, usually made from pork or veal. It is pounded thin, coated in breadcrumbs, and then fried until golden and crispy. Schnitzel is typically served with a side of potatoes or salad.
3. Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage that is finely shredded and preserved with salt. It is a common side dish in German cuisine, known for its tangy and slightly sour flavor. Sauerkraut is often served with various meat dishes, such as sausages and roasts.

These three dishes represent just a glimpse of the many delicious foods you can find in Germany, each region having its own specialties and culinary delights.

What is Cologne traditional drink?

Cologne’s traditional drink is Kölsch beer. Kölsch is a pale, top-fermented beer that is closely associated with the city of Cologne in Germany. It has a light, crisp, and refreshing taste, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Kölsch beer is traditionally served in small, cylindrical glasses known as “Kölsch Stangen.” When you order a Kölsch in a traditional brewery or pub in Cologne, the waiters or waitresses, known as “Köbes” in the local dialect, will continuously refill your glass until you indicate that you’ve had enough by placing a beer mat on top of your glass.

The brewing of Kölsch is strictly regulated, and it must adhere to the Kölsch Konvention, which ensures that the beer is produced in the Cologne area and meets specific quality standards. The beer’s unique brewing process and connection to the city’s culture make Kölsch an integral part of Cologne’s identity and a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

How much is a meal in Cologne Germany?

The cost of a meal in Cologne, Germany, can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of restaurant, the location, and the specific dish you order. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around 15 to 30 euros per person. This could include a main course with a side dish and a non-alcoholic beverage.

For a quick and budget-friendly option, you can find street food or fast-food meals for around 5 to 10 euros. On the other hand, dining at high-end restaurants or establishments with gourmet cuisine can cost upwards of 50 euros per person or more, especially when including drinks and additional courses.

What is the food heaven and earth in Cologne?

In Cologne, “Himmel und Äd” (Heaven and Earth) is a traditional dish that is considered a local specialty. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that reflects the region’s culinary heritage. The name “Himmel und Äd” comes from the combination of two main ingredients:

1. Himmel (Heaven): This refers to the apples used in the dish. They are typically cooked down into a smooth applesauce that adds a touch of sweetness to the overall flavor.
2. Äd (Earth): The “earth” part of the dish comes from the potatoes. They are mashed and seasoned to create a delicious and creamy potato side.

The dish is completed by serving black pudding, also known as blood sausage, on top of the applesauce and mashed potatoes. The black pudding is a sausage made from pork blood and various spices, giving it a distinctive flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the applesauce and the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.

“Himmel und Äd” is a comforting and traditional German meal that is often served in pubs, breweries, and restaurants in Cologne. It provides a unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic tastes of Cologne’s local cuisine.