Cologne: Legends and Stories Tour in German

Discover the enchanting legends and captivating stories that make Cologne’s historic Old Town come alive on this guided walking tour. Departing from the iconic Heinzelmännchen Fountain, travelers embark on a 1.5-hour journey through the city’s vibrant past, delving into tales of saints and mischievous sprites. With a rich narrative filled with amusing anecdotes and insights into local traditions, this tour promises an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. What secrets might Cologne’s historic streets unveil?

Key Points

• 1.5-hour guided walking tour through Cologne’s historic Old Town, exploring tales of Saint Ursula, the devil, and the legendary Heinzelmännchen.
• Tour conducted in German and priced at $13.63 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include stories about the significance of Grinköpfe (grimace masks) and amusing anecdotes from the Middle Ages.
• Tour is wheelchair accessible, and children under 11 can participate for free.
• The tour has earned a 4.8/5 rating from over 100 reviews, with praise for the guide’s knowledge and engaging storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cologne: Legends and Stories Tour is a 1.5-hour guided walk through the city’s historic Old Town.

A 1.5-hour guided walk through Cologne’s historic Old Town, exploring the city’s legendary tales and sights.

Priced from $13.63 per person, it’s conducted in German and departs from the Heinzelmännchen Fountain at 6 PM.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour’s highlights include tales of Saint Ursula, the devil, and the Heinzelmännchen (little elves), as well as exploring famous sights along the Rhine River.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and children under 11 can participate for free.

Booking Information

Travelers can reserve their spot on the Cologne: Legends and Stories Tour without any upfront payment.

The tour offers free cancellation – guests can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

With convenient booking options and flexibility, the Cologne Legends and Stories Tour provides an enjoyable and hassle-free experience for all.

Whether you’re exploring solo, with friends, or as a family, this guided walk through the city’s Old Town is an excellent way to explore Cologne’s rich history and captivating folklore.

Tour Highlights

This guided walking tour through Cologne’s Old Town offers a captivating exploration of the city’s legends and stories.

Visitors will listen to tales of Saint Ursula and her 11,000 virgins, the devil, and the Heinzelmännchen (little elves). They’ll discover famous sights along the Rhine River and learn about the disappearance of the Heinzelmännchen and the tale of the white woman.

The tour also covers the significance of Grinköpfe (grimace masks) on house walls and shares amusing stories from the Middle Ages.

It’s a unique way to immerse in Cologne’s eventful past through its captivating folklore.

Tour Description

Visitors embark on a captivating exploration of Cologne’s eventful past through its legendary tales and folklore.

They’ll enjoy the city’s rich history, uncovering stories of Saint Ursula and her 11,000 virgins, the devil and Meister Gerhard, and the mischievous Heinzelmännchen (little elves).

The tour also delves into the significance of the Grinköpfe (grimace masks) adorning house walls and shares amusing anecdotes from the Middle Ages.

Throughout the 1.5-hour experience, guests will discover famous sights along the Rhine River, gaining a deeper understanding of Cologne’s cultural heritage and the enduring power of its legendary narratives.

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Customer Reviews

The Cologne: Legends and Stories Tour has earned an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 107 reviews, showcasing its consistent ability to captivate participants.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and engaging guide, who brings the city’s rich history to life through enthralling tales and legends. Participants consistently report excellent value for money and note the tour’s suitability for diverse traveler types, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.

With children under 11 participating free of charge, the tour provides an enriching experience for all ages. The Cologne Legends and Stories Tour earns high marks for its immersive storytelling and ability to connect visitors with the city’s enchanting past.

Meet the Heinzelmännchen

Cologne’s legendary Heinzelmännchen, or "little elves," are the focus of one of the tour’s enchanting tales.

These mischievous sprites were believed to live in the city and perform household chores at night, disappearing without a trace.

The legends surrounding them include:

• Their sudden vanishing after a tailor’s wife revealed their existence

• Their playful pranks, like tying shoelaces in knots

• Their affinity for the number 11,000, as in the legend of Saint Ursula and her 11,000 virgin companions

• The tradition of Grinköpfe (grimace masks) on house walls to ward off the Heinzelmännchen

• The myth of the "white woman" who mourns their disappearance.

Exploring Cologne’s Enchanting Past

As guests embark on the Cologne Legends and Stories Tour, they’re transported back in time, seeing the city’s enchanting past.

The guide recounts tales of saints, devils, and mythical creatures that have captivated Cologne for centuries.

Listeners learn the significance of the Grinköpfe, or grimace masks, adorning house walls, and uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of the Heinzelmännchen, the legendary little elves.

From the Middle Ages to modern-day, the tour weaves a tapestry of Cologne’s rich history, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the city’s cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos Allowed During the Tour?

Photos are allowed during the tour. The booking information doesn’t mention any restrictions on photography, so visitors can take photos throughout the 1.5-hour guided walk through Cologne’s Old Town to capture the sights and learn about the city’s legends.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Visitors can request a private tour to have a more personalized experience with the guide. Private tours provide flexibility in group size, start time, and tour duration.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no formal dress code. Participants are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour takes place outdoors. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is recommended for an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

Do the Guides Offer Recommendations for Post-Tour Activities?

The guides do not explicitly provide recommendations for post-tour activities. However, they’re knowledgeable about the city and can likely offer suggestions if asked about places to explore or dine in the area after the tour concludes.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides German?

The tour is only offered in German. There’s no information provided about it being available in other languages. The tour focuses on Cologne’s legends and stories, which are likely best experienced in the local language.

The Sum Up

The "Cologne: Legends and Stories Tour in German" offers a captivating exploration of Cologne’s enchanting past. Through captivating tales and engaging narratives, the tour immerses visitors in the city’s vibrant history, bringing to life the legends of Saint Ursula and the mischievous Heinzelmännchen. With a rich and informative experience, the tour provides travelers with an engaging and memorable way to discover the enchanting heart of Cologne.

You can check availability for your dates here: