Cologne is a city that lives and breathes beer, especially its signature Kölsch, a crisp, pale brew that’s as much a part of local life as the cathedral spires. With a rich brewing culture dating back centuries, Cologne offers a variety of drinking tours that showcase its authentic beer heritage and lively pub atmosphere. We’ve chosen some of the best options — from guided brewery tours to private pub crawls and even an axe-throwing bar — each offering a unique way to savor the city’s famous brews and soak up its spirited ambiance. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a connoisseur, these experiences promise a memorable taste of Cologne’s drinking scene.
One tour we really like is the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour, which combines in-depth brewery visits with insider stories, and the Cologne: Kölsch Brewery Tour, which explores lesser-known local breweries. Looking for something more interactive? The Axe Throwing & Enjoying Drinks in Cologne’s First Axe Throwing Bar delivers a fun, active twist on traditional drinking experiences. For a lively night out, the Cologne Private Pub Crawl offers exclusive access to top bars and hidden spots. For an all-day adventure, the Chocolate and Beer Private Guided Tour combines Cologne’s beer with its sweet side in a full-day trip. Finally, for something casual and fun, the Veloloco Rickshaw Tour combines sightseeing and beer tasting on a rickshaw ride through the city.
1. The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour
At number one is the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour, a guided experience that takes you into Cologne’s iconic beer culture. With a rating of 5.0/5 from 186 reviews and priced at just over $32 per person, this tour offers an authentic taste of the city’s brewing traditions over 2 to 3 hours. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, personal introduction to Kölsch beer. The tour visits three renowned brew houses, including Heumarkt, where you’ll meet your guide and get a quick overview of what’s to come. Then, at An der Malzmühle, you’ll sample your first Kölsch and hear about its brewing secrets, including tales of American influence in the brewery. The final stops at Heumarkt and Bierhaus en d’r Salzgass deepen your understanding of Cologne’s beer culture while providing ample tastings.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of insider knowledge, small group intimacy, and the chance to sample at each location, including a private tasting of Mühlen Kölsch. It’s rated 5/5 by travelers who appreciated the friendly guides and the relaxed pace. Even if you’re not a beer enthusiast, the storytelling and local atmosphere make it a fun cultural experience. The price includes all tastings, and optional meals are available.
Bottom Line: A great choice for beer lovers who want a personalized, relaxed introduction to Kölsch and Cologne’s brewing heritage.
2. Cologne: Kölsch Brewery Tour
At number two is the Cologne: Kölsch Brewery Tour, a slightly longer, more comprehensive exploration of the city’s beer scene. With a rating of 4.4/5 from 37 reviews and lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours, this tour takes you through historic breweries and into some lesser-known spots. Starting at Heumarkt, the tour visits Brauerei zur Malzmühle, Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch, and Peters Brauhaus, among others. Each brewery has its own story and unique flavors, offering a well-rounded experience of Cologne’s beloved Kölsch.
Led by local guides with years of experience, this tour emphasizes not only tasting but also discovering hidden gems known only to locals. The itinerary includes a mix of well-known favorites like Früh am Dom and some off-the-beaten-path breweries, giving a broader perspective of the city’s beer culture. The group is small enough for personalized attention, and the guide shares entertaining facts along the way. Many reviewers note how the tour is fun, informative, and perfect for first-time visitors wanting an authentic taste of Cologne.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a deeper dive into Cologne’s brewery landscape, mixing classic and lesser-known venues.
3. Axe Throwing & Enjoying Drinks in Cologne’s First Axe Throwing Bar
Next on the list, we have the Axe Throwing & Enjoying Drinks in Cologne’s First Axe Throwing Bar, which combines active fun with good drinks. For just $30 per person, this 1-hour experience is perfect if you want a different kind of social outing. Located in northern Germany, this bar offers private courses where you learn the art of axe throwing on your own lanes — all with unlimited throws during your session.
This experience is about more than just throwing axes; afterward, you can sip on beers or other drinks, making it a lively, energetic way to spend an hour. It’s especially suited for groups seeking a unique activity rather than a traditional pub crawl, and reviews praise the fun atmosphere and the chance to try something new in Cologne. It’s a good pick for active travelers or those celebrating a birthday or special occasion. Remember, availability can vary, so check ahead before booking.
Bottom Line: A fun, physically engaging alternative for those wanting a break from the usual beer tour routine.
4. Cologne: Private Pub Crawl
At number four, the Cologne: Private Pub Crawl offers a personalized way to experience Cologne’s nightlife. Lasting around four hours, this tour includes free admission and a free shot at every bar, making it a favorite for night owls. The private guide curates exclusive access to some of the city’s top bars and underground spots, providing a mix of popular and hidden venues.
This tour caters to groups looking for a flexible, custom experience. The guide, Phil, is praised for showing off great pubs and sharing local insights. It’s especially suitable for smaller groups or those celebrating special occasions. Be aware that the review score is 3.8/5, partly due to the limited number of reviews, but the overall feedback is positive regarding the fun and intimacy. The focus is on enjoying quality drinks in a relaxed, social setting with plenty of opportunities to chat and meet fellow travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups wanting a tailored, social evening with insider access to Cologne’s nightlife.
5. Cologne & Düsseldorf: Chocolate and Beer Private Guided Tour
For a full-day experience, the Cologne & Düsseldorf: Chocolate and Beer Private Guided Tour blends beer tastings with sweet treats. Rated 3.7/5, this 9-hour tour appeals to travelers interested in combining culinary delights with cultural sights. It kicks off at the Lindt Chocolate Museum in Cologne, where you’ll learn about chocolate production with a demonstration, then enjoy a traditional lunch at a local Brauhaus.
The afternoon takes you to Düsseldorf’s Altstadt, where you explore the lively streets and taste the local Altbier. The tour also includes visits to a chocolate factory for tastings, making it a rich experience for those with a sweet tooth. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you see the best of both cities without any guesswork. This tour is a bit longer and more expensive, but offers excellent value if you want to combine beer, chocolate, and cultural sights in one day. Reviewers mention it’s a comprehensive, enjoyable trip for those with a full day available.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for travelers wanting a multi-sensory experience combining sweet and savory.
6. Veloloco Rickshaw Tour Cologne Sightseeing Wedding Brewery Birthdays
Lastly, the Veloloco Rickshaw Tour offers a lively way to see Cologne on a rickshaw while sampling Kölsch. This customizable ride covers major sights like the Cathedral, Old Town, and Rhine, all while enjoying beer directly from the tap. It’s rated 4.2/5, and ideal for special occasions, birthdays, or weddings.
This tour is versatile, functioning as a sightseeing shuttle, a brewery trip, or just a fun way to relax and talk about Cologne’s highlights. You can even bring your own DIY420 if you’re looking for an unconventional experience. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing and drinking with a unique, social twist. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the chance to explore the city in a fun, informal way.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups seeking a personalized, fun way to combine city tours with beer tasting.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Cologne
When selecting a drinking tour, consider your interests and energy level. If you’re a true beer enthusiast wanting an in-depth brewery experience, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour is hard to beat for its intimate setting and insider stories. For those who prefer exploring the city’s hidden beer spots with a guide, the Cologne: Kölsch Brewery Tour offers a broader look.
If you look for something more active and engaging, the Axe Throwing & Drinks experience provides a fun twist, especially for groups. For a lively night, the Private Pub Crawl offers a flexible, social evening in cozy, exclusive venues. Travelers interested in a full day of treats will enjoy the Chocolate and Beer Tour, blending Cologne’s beer with its sweet side. Lastly, if you want a relaxed, sightseeing-centered experience with some beer, the Veloloco Rickshaw Tour is a playful, casual option.
Booking early is recommended, especially during busy weekends or holidays, to secure your preferred time and ensure availability. Check each tour’s offerings and reviews to match your style—from laid-back tastings to active adventures.
Final Thoughts
Cologne offers a rich variety of ways to enjoy its world-famous Kölsch and lively pub culture. For a traditional, in-depth experience, the Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour stands out, while the Cologne: Kölsch Brewery Tour offers a more comprehensive exploration. For something different, the axe-throwing bar or private pub crawl add a fun, social element.
If you’re short on time but want a full sensory experience, the chocolate and beer tour combines delicious treats with local brews. For a relaxed sightseeing adventure with beer, the Veloloco Rickshaw Tour offers a memorable, social way to see Cologne. Whatever your style, these experiences promise a genuine taste of Cologne’s spirited drinking scene—so book early and enjoy your trip!