Explore Cologne’s Culinary and Historic Treasures on a Private Food Tour

The Traditional German Food and Cologne Old Town Private Tour offers a flavorful journey through Cologne’s vibrant food scene combined with fascinating insights into the city’s rich history. Priced at $353 per person, this flexible experience ranges from 2.5 to 5 hours, allowing you to select a start time that fits your schedule. Led by a 5-star private guide, the tour takes you through 2 to 4 local venues where you can taste authentic German dishes and locally brewed beers.

This tour is especially ideal for adventurous eaters eager to discover what locals love to eat and drink in Cologne. While it offers substantial portions and a deep dive into regional flavors, it also promises a good balance of sightseeing highlights like Cologne Cathedral and the City Hall. For those who enjoy culinary exploration combined with cultural insights, this experience stands out as a comprehensive way to enjoy Cologne’s heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Private guided experience with a highly rated guide
Tasting German specialties at 1 to 4 local venues
Sampling Kölsch beer and other regional brews
Sightseeing highlights include Cologne Cathedral and City Hall
Options range from 2.5 to 5 hours, with varying menu and beer tastings
Perfect for food lovers interested in local traditions and historic sites

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Cologne

A Private Guide Leads You Through Cologne’s Old Town

This tour begins with a meeting in front of Cologne’s City Hall, located at Rathauspl. 2. The private guide speaks multiple languages including English, German, and others, ensuring a smooth experience. The guide’s expertise shines through as they share stories about Cologne’s history, culture, and culinary roots.

Throughout the tour, the guide carefully chooses venues that are favorites among locals, providing authentic tastes in cozy, well-loved spots. The personalized nature of the private tour guarantees attentive service and tailored recommendations, making the experience both enjoyable and insightful.

Visiting 2-4 Local Venues for Authentic German Dishes

During the 2.5-hour version, you’ll visit one restaurant and one patisserie, sampling big portions of German meals. Expect to try Mettbrötchen, a German toast with raw minced pork typically eaten any time of day, along with traditional mashed potatoes with Rhinenian sauce and Ähzezupp, a flavorful pea soup. The meal includes a dessert like Apfelstrudel, plus a soft drink and coffee or tea.

For those opting for the 3.5-hour experience, the menu expands to include a full course meal, dessert, and beverages, including Kölsch beer. The guide introduces guests to the culinary heritage of Cologne, explaining the significance of dishes like Himmel und Aad—a hearty combination of potatoes and apples.

The 5-hour tour takes you to four venues, adding more regional dishes, and eight different beers including craft options brewed locally. This extended version also incorporates sightseeing around St Martins Church and medieval city gates, enriching the experience with more of Cologne’s historic ambiance.

Savoring German Beers and Local Breweries

Beyond food, this tour truly celebrates Cologne’s renowned beer culture. The 5-hour option features eight beers to sample, covering popular brands, regional Kölsch, and craft beers brewed locally. The guide shares insights into brewing traditions, making each sip a part of the city’s story.

The Kölsch beer, a favorite among locals, is served during the tasting, offering a chance to appreciate Cologne’s brewing style firsthand. The tour also highlights local drinking customs, helping visitors understand how beer complements the city’s culinary heritage.

More Great Tours Nearby

Sightseeing Highlights: Cologne Cathedral and City Hall

While tasting regional delicacies, the tour also includes stunning sightseeing stops. The City Hall serves as the starting point and provides a glimpse into Cologne’s historic political center.

Guests walk past Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, with its imposing Gothic architecture. Additional sights on the 3.5-hour and 5-hour options include St Martins Church and medieval city gates, offering a blend of culinary discovery and cultural exploration.

Keen to taste more of Cologne? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Flexibility and Practical Details

The tour is designed for flexibility, with start times available between 2.5 and 5 hours after booking. It operates as a private group, ensuring an intimate experience. The meeting point at Rathausplatz makes it easy to find, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking process allows for reserving now and paying later for added convenience. The guide’s fluency in multiple languages guarantees smooth communication, especially for international visitors.

What’s Included in the Tour

Depending on the selected duration, the tour includes full course meals, desserts, soft drinks, coffee or tea, and beer tastings. The 2.5-hour option features one meal, one dessert, and one soda or coffee, while the longer options add more venues, more dishes, and up to eight beers.

The tour excludes additional food and drinks, so guests should prepare for substantial portions meant to satisfy serious appetites. The focus on local delicacies and beers ensures an authentic experience rooted in Cologne’s traditions.

Considerations and Tips for Participants

It’s recommended to join on an empty stomach, given the generous portions served at each venue. The menu may vary depending on venue availability, but the tour’s aim is to showcase the best local options.

Guests should inform the tour provider in advance of dietary restrictions, such as food allergies or vegetarian preferences. The pace is comfortable, and delays are accommodated with a 30-minute waiting window if needed.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Cologne

This private tour offers a unique combination of culinary delight and sightseeing, led by an experienced guide with a passion for Cologne’s culture. The multi-venue approach provides a comprehensive taste of regional dishes and beers, making it a rich, satisfying experience.

The flexibility of durations allows travelers to tailor the experience to their interests—whether a quick introduction or a deep dive into Cologne’s food and history. Its personalized nature and focus on local favorites make it a worthwhile choice for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Journey Through Cologne’s Old Town

The Traditional German Food and Cologne Old Town Private Tour offers an authentic taste of Cologne’s culinary and cultural scene. With options spanning from 2.5 to 5 hours, it caters to different appetites and schedules, providing generous portions of traditional dishes and local beers.

This tour stands out for its personalized guidance, carefully selected venues, and blend of sightseeing and tasting. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to experience Cologne like a local, indulging in regional specialties while discovering famous landmarks. While it’s a food-focused experience, the inclusion of major sights means this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s heritage.

For those who want to satisfy their hunger for authentic German cuisine and craft beers in a flexible, intimate setting, this tour delivers a memorable and flavorful journey through Cologne’s Old Town.

✨ Book This Experience

Traditional German Food and Cologne Old Town Private Tour

4.7

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price per person for this tour?
The tour costs $353 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It ranges from 2.5 hours to 5 hours, depending on the selected option.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Rathausplatz in front of Cologne City Hall and ends back at the same meeting point.

What is included in the tour?
The 2.5-hour version includes one full meal, one dessert, and a soft drink or coffee.
The 3.5-hour and 5-hour versions add more venues, dishes, dessert, soft drinks, coffee/tea, and beers (up to 8 for the longest option).

Are beers included in the tour?
Yes, local and regional beers are included, particularly in the longer 5-hour tour, which features eight beers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a private group experience?
Yes, it is designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized experience.

What sights are included during the tour?
Guests see Cologne Cathedral, City Hall, St Martins Church, and medieval city gates depending on the duration.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Guests should advise in advance if they have food allergies or vegetarian preferences.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While the menu features meat delicacies, dietary preferences should be noted in advance to check availability of alternatives.