Guided tour of Cologne during the Nazi era

The guided tour of Cologne during the Nazi era offers a compelling look into one of the most challenging chapters of the city’s history. Priced as a 2-hour experience, this tour is operated by Echt Köln, which holds a high provider rating of 4.8. Starting at the Alter Markt in front of the town hall, the tour takes visitors through the old town, past the Rhine and the iconic Cologne Cathedral, and ends in the bustling city center.

This tour is ideally suited for those who want a thought-provoking exploration of Cologne’s history during 1933-1945. It emphasizes special locations related to the Nazi era, offers insights into how the Nazis gained power in Cologne, and sheds light on resistance and victims of that period. The German-speaking guides lead the group through a carefully curated route, providing a detailed account of how life was during those dark years, with many stops that reveal lesser-known stories behind well-known landmarks.

While the tour’s duration of two hours makes for a manageable visit, participants should prepare for a walking route through the old town. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Alter Markt, with precise coordinates provided, making it easy to find. The experience is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Key Points

• Duration: 2-hour guided walking tour
• Location: Starts at Alter Markt, Cologne
• Focus: The Nazi era in Cologne, including places of resistance and victims
• Language: Guided in German, with some content shown in its original language
• Provider: Echt Köln, rated 4.8 out of 5
• Highlights: Major sites like the El-De Haus, the old town, the Rhine, and the cathedral

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Starting Point at Alter Markt in Cologne’s Old Town

The tour begins at the Alter Markt, a historic square in front of the town hall. This central location allows easy access and sets the tone for a walk through Cologne’s history. The guides lead visitors through the narrow streets of the old town, sharing stories of how the Nazi movement infiltrated the city and the local response. The meeting point’s exact coordinates ensure smooth check-in, especially for those unfamiliar with the city.

From here, the route includes prominent sites and allows for an engaging exploration of the city’s dark period. The old town streets provide an atmospheric backdrop for discussions on power, resistance, and persecution during the Nazi years.

Exploring Cologne’s Nazi-Era Landmarks

The tour covers special places in history that played a part in Cologne’s experience of the Nazi era. One key location is the El-De Haus, a building that holds significance in the city’s history of persecution. The guides explain the role of the building during the Nazi period and its transformation into a site of remembrance today.

Other stops include locations along the Rhine River and the cathedral, where the group learns about public sentiment, opposition, and the suppression of dissent. The routes chosen highlight how the Nazi regime took hold in Cologne, as well as instances of local resistance and the victims of those dark times.

Uncovering Resistance and Victims in Cologne

An important aspect of this tour is the focus on who was in on it and who resisted. The guides detail local figures and groups who opposed the Nazi regime, alongside stories of victims whose suffering left a mark on the city’s history. This nuanced perspective provides a balanced view, questioning the common assumption that Cologne’s population was uniformly enthusiastic about the Nazis.

The tour aims to shed light on the complex reality of Cologne’s society during the 12 years of Nazi rule, offering a more layered understanding of the city’s past.

The Route Through the Old Town and Past the Cathedral

After exploring the key historical sites, the tour continues through Cologne’s scenic old town, passing the Rhine promenade and the famous Cathedral. This route not only emphasizes the historic significance but also allows visitors to appreciate Cologne’s resilience and transformation since those dark days.

The final stops in the city center serve as a reflective space to consider how the city has moved forward and to remember those affected during the Nazi era.

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Logistics and Practical Details

Participants meet at the Alter Markt, with the precise coordinates provided for convenience. The tour duration is exactly 2 hours, making it a compact yet informative experience. While the group is led in German, content is sometimes shown in its original language, which adds authenticity to the storytelling.

The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours before the start. Booking in advance with the reserve now & pay later option offers flexibility for travelers with uncertain schedules.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This specialized focus on Cologne during the Nazi era distinguishes the experience from more general city tours. The inclusion of key sites like the El-De Haus and the narrative about resistance provides a deep dive into a difficult chapter of history. The high provider rating of 4.8 suggests consistent quality and engaging guides.

The small group atmosphere encourages questions and discussion, making it suitable for those interested in history, social questions, and remembrance. The walk through the old town, combined with stories of local resistance and victims, makes the tour both educational and emotionally impactful.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in Cologne’s past during the Nazi period. It offers a thoughtful exploration of how power was cultivated and challenged in the city. Participants should be prepared for a walking route and a focus on sensitive topics.

Since the guides speak German, it’s best suited for German-speaking visitors or those comfortable with listening to content in that language. The 2-hour duration and location make it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Cologne Nazi Era Tour

This guided tour offers a well-structured, insightful look into Cologne’s history during one of its darkest periods. The focus on local resistance, victims, and the Nazi influence at significant sites makes it a meaningful experience. The high provider rating and flexible booking options add to its appeal.

While it’s limited to German content, the compact duration makes it a worthwhile choice for visitors who want a focused, educational journey through Cologne’s complex past. It’s especially suitable for those eager to understand how history shaped the city’s present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this tour?
The specific price isn’t listed, but it is a 2-hour guided experience with flexible booking options.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is led in German, with some content shown in its original language.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is on the Alter Markt, in front of the town hall tower, at coordinates: 50.938499450683594, 6.959892272949219.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts exactly 2 hours.

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

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While not explicitly specified, the history-focused content and walking route suggest it’s best suited for adults or older teens interested in history.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking through historic streets; no specific accessibility information is provided, but it generally requires comfortable footwear.

Is there an option to book in advance?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans.

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