Cologne isn’t just about its stunning cathedral and lively streets — it’s also a fantastic place to explore German and French wines. The city’s vibrant wine scene combines traditional wine bars with innovative tasting experiences, making it a great destination for wine lovers. Among the options, we particularly like the gourmet wine tasting in Nippes for its cozy atmosphere and expert guidance, and the winter champagne rickshaw tour for a fun, mobile way to see Cologne dressed in winter’s charm. Both offer unique ways to enjoy local and French wines in authentic settings.
Cologne’s wine tours range from elegant tastings with cheeses and champagnes to lively wine hopping and scenic city explorations. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass, there’s an experience here for every taste. Read on to find the perfect tour for you.
1. Cologne-Nippes: Gourmet wine tasting with cheese platter
This gourmet wine tasting in Nippes offers an elegant journey through French wines — from crémant to reds — accompanied by a delicate cheese platter featuring AOP cheeses from soft Brie to Camembert. The experience is led by an experienced wine connoisseur, guiding you through each sip in a cozy, candlelit setting inside a French wine shop. It’s ideal for lovers of refined flavors and intimate atmospheres.
What makes this tour stand out is the careful selection of wines and cheeses, making it a true sensory delight. The 4-hour experience includes a 1-hour Cologne Aperitif and a 3-hour tasting session. Guests consistently praise the host’s deep knowledge and the ambiance, describing it as a “fuller-than-expected” gourmet experience. It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, educational, yet indulgent evening. At $67 per person, it offers excellent value considering the quality and atmosphere.
Bottom line: If you enjoy combining wine, cheese, and expert insights in a charming setting, this tour is a top pick.
2. Cologne-Nippes: wine hopping (wine trip)
This wine hopping experience takes you through several restaurants in Nippes, tasting high-quality wines from Europe, from country wines to high-end Chateau selections. Led by a fachkundige Unterstützung durch den Chef-Sommelier, this 4.5-hour tour combines the fun of exploring different venues with a guided tasting at Le Caveau, a well-regarded wine bar.
What makes this tour special is the variety — guests enjoy a range of wines and high-quality AOP cheeses in a warm, candlelit atmosphere. The guide’s expertise helps decipher complex flavor notes, making each sip more meaningful. Guests have raved about the evening, calling it “a very successful night” with “delicious wines and good appetizers.” For $74, it’s a little pricier but justifies the expense with the variety, atmosphere, and expert support.
Bottom line: Best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to explore multiple venues in one night while enjoying expert commentary and good company.
3. Winter Champagne Tour by Rickshaw
This winter champagne rickshaw tour offers a playful way to see Cologne — all while sipping Champagne, bundled up in a blanket. The 1 to 1.5-hour experience takes you past the stunning Cologne Cathedral and other historic sights, with a personal story about Cologne’s culture from your friendly driver.
What makes this tour special is the combination of sightseeing and indulgence. Riding in a rickshaw is eco-friendly and fun, especially in winter when the city looks particularly magical. The guide’s engaging narration adds local flavor, and the Champagne keeps everyone relaxed. Guests have given glowing reviews, praising the driver’s friendliness and the unique views. It’s priced at $61, offering a memorable, portable way to explore Cologne’s winter beauty.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, personalized city tour with champagne and city views, this is a fantastic choice.
4. Cologne: Black wine tasting with secret station – Haus der Manufakturen
This Black Wine Tasting is truly one-of-a-kind. Featuring 10 exquisite wines across 5 stations plus a secret station, the experience is designed for those wanting to try something outside the ordinary. The wines here are “black” or very dark, and the tasting involves matching them with snacks and discovering products from 200 manufacturers.
What makes this tour stand out is its worldwide uniqueness — few places offer a black wine tasting with so many stations and special flavors. It’s perfect for groups of friends or curious wine lovers eager for an adventure. The price is $56, making it a good value considering the variety and the exclusive nature of the tasting.
Bottom line: For those seeking an unusual, engaging wine experience with a sense of mystery, this tour is hard to beat.
5. Cologne-Nippes: Cheese and wine with champagne and Grand Cru
This cheese and wine evening in Nippes starts with champagne, then moves into a tasting of eight French cheeses paired with fine wines, concluding with a rare Grand Cru. Guided by an experienced French connoisseur and sommelier, the 4.5-hour session provides a deep dive into French wine and cheese pairings.
Guests highlight the high-quality selection and the refined atmosphere, describing it as “delicious wines, cheese platters, and a great host.” It’s ideal for those wanting a sophisticated, educational experience that emphasizes the art of pairing. At $90, it’s a bit more expensive but offers a comprehensive, elegant experience that’s worth the extra.
Bottom line: Perfect for enthusiasts who want to combine French cuisine with expert guidance in a relaxed setting.
6. From Eigelstein to Nippes: city tour and wine hike
This city tour and wine hike offers a blend of history, scenery, and wine. Starting at Eigelstein and ending in Nippes, it includes stops at Agneskirche and three wine stations with five wines and cheese bites. It’s a walking tour with in-depth insights into Cologne’s neighborhoods.
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of cultural exploration and wine tasting. The guide shares stories about Eigelstein’s past and city highlights, while you enjoy a relaxed walk and wine at each stop. Guest reviews mention the scenic value and the delightful final destination, although they note the walk is brisk and in German. At $56, it offers good value for those interested in combining sightseeing with tasting.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want to explore Cologne’s history and wine scene simultaneously.
7. Cologne-Nippes: Summer wine party in the frenchstyle garden
This summer wine party is an outdoor celebration with fine summer wines, regional delicacies, and live French music, set in a charming French-style garden. It lasts about 4.5 hours and costs $67, making it an affordable, lively way to enjoy Cologne’s warm months.
The highlight is the festive atmosphere—French wines paired with regional bites, all under warm weather skies. The music and open-air setting bring a relaxed, convivial vibe. While reviews are limited, attendees describe it as “a fun evening in a lovely setting.” It’s best suited for relaxed groups looking for a social, summer event.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a casual, fun outdoor gathering with good wine and music.
8. Cologne-Nippes: Gourmet wine tasting with French chansons and wines
This French chanson-themed wine tasting combines French wines, cheeses, and live music. Over 4 hours, you’ll sample seven wines from different regions, paired with six French cheeses, while enjoying live performances of French chansons.
What sets this experience apart is its combination of sensory pleasures — wine, cheese, and music. It creates an authentic French atmosphere, perfect for romantic evenings or cultural enthusiasts. Although reviews are not available, the concept promises a lively, elegant experience in a charming setting.
Bottom line: For lovers of French culture and good company, this tour offers a memorable, multi-sensory journey.
9. Cologne Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert
This private wine tasting is the most personalized option on our list. Led by a 5-star wine expert, you visit popular Cologne wine bars, sampling 4-5 German wines, including reds and whites. An extended version includes paired wine appetizers, making it ideal for a deeper dive into German wine culture.
Guests praise the customized experience and the guide’s extensive knowledge, which enhances understanding of grape varieties and wine production. With prices at $298 per person, this tour is best suited for serious wine aficionados or celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom line: For a bespoke, intimate experience with an expert and high-end wines, this private tour is the top choice.
How to Choose Your Ideal Cologne Wine Tour
When selecting a wine experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. Want a cozy, informative evening? The gourmet tasting offers a refined atmosphere. Looking for variety and exploration? The wine hopping covers multiple venues with expert guidance.
If you prefer a fun outdoor activity, the winter champagne rickshaw combines sightseeing and bubbly. For something truly unique, try the black wine tasting with its secret stations. Budget-conscious travelers might enjoy the summer wine party, while those seeking a cultural experience might prefer the French chansons and wines. For personalized attention, the private tour is unbeatable.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons or special events, to secure your preferred time and experience.
In sum, Cologne’s wine scene offers a rich variety of options—from elegant tastings with cheese to lively city explorations. Whether you’re after an intimate, educational journey or a fun night of wine hopping, the city has something to satisfy every wine lover. For a truly memorable experience, pick one that matches your style and interests, and don’t forget to book ahead!