Cologne – Germany’s city of history, culture, – and most key for our current purposes – a boiling pub life. If you’re established pub crawler, a curious newbie or just a fan of the city, pub crawling in Cologne is an unavoidable mission. You will be prepared with all you need to explore Cologne’s many different drinking establishments, from your classic “Brauhäuser”, to trendy cocktail bars, and have an amazing time on your night out.
Planning Your Cologne Pub Crawl: The Essentials
Planning is the key to opening a Kölsch (Cologne’s local beer) before even considering making that pub crawl. Think about the size of your group, your budget and the general ambience you want. Which do you want – a noisy, high-energy affair or a more chill discovery of Cologne’s bars? If you know this it will help you to select the right pubs and to set the tone for your evening. Study varied sections of Cologne, famous for their nightlife, in order to identify possible starting points.
Timing is everything. Weekends are, of course, busier, so consider a weekday crawl for a less busy situation. Similarly, find out their opening and closing time to save yourself from disappointments. Just don’t forget to add travel time between locations. Cologne’s public transportation is efficient, but getting from one bar to another can blow up the schedule unexpectedly. A pre designed route, no matter how shabby, is a priced asset to have.
Choosing the Right Pubs: Variety is the Spice of Life
Cologne has a staggering variety of places for drinks. You can get a feel for some authentic old Cologne culture in the traditional “Brauhäuser” such as Früh am Dom or Gaffel am Dom at which Kölsch is served in small glasses of just 0.2 liters which are always refilled unless you place your coaster Perfect for savouring the special drinking traditions of the city. But, Cologne also has a lot of modern bars, craft beer pubs, and cocktail clubs for people who would like to go into a different place.
To have a rich experience of pubs, you better seek variety of them in terms of style. Maybe begin at an old-style “Brauhaus” for old school Kölsch before venturing to a local establish for tasting of IPAs and Pilsners and cap the evening off at a hip cocktail bar for a classy finish. Such an even approach fulfills various tastes within your company, and provides a broader spectrum of Cologne’s night culture.
Navigating Cologne’s Nightlife: Tips and Tricks
Cologne’s nightlife is also safe and friendly, but of course, keeping an eye on what is around is never a bad idea. Avoid dark and isolated places, better late in the evening. When using public transport, please be aware of schedules, especially at weekends or later in day when transport may be limited. Learn basic phrases of German; although most people in Cologne are conversant in English, a little knowledge of basic greetings will project your stay.
The “Kölsch” tradition demands respect. Kölsch is poured into little glasses that never run dry until you stack your coaster, meaning you are finished. Mind this custom not to pay a large bill accidentally. In addition, tipping is expected in Germany, roughly 10-15% of the whole bill.
Transportation in Cologne: Getting Around Efficiently
Cologne has a fantastic public transport system, and even getting one’s way around the city is not difficult even following a couple of drinks. The KVB (Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe) runs tram, bus services and the U-Bahn (subway). Buy a day pass for cost effectiveness purposes if you intend holding on on public transport and wide in your night. Taxis and car-share services are also available, but a little more expensive.
Walking is a wonderful idea for distances short enough to travel by foot, particularly if it’s a lovely day. But consider your route plan and the mileage if you are so feeing the aftermath of your pub crawl. Walking can be a fun social experience which could make you absorb the city’s atmosphere as you walk.
Beyond the Pubs: Exploring Cologne’s Nighttime Delights
Although a pub crawl constitutes the center of your Cologne adventure, don’t be confined to bars. Cologne proudly has a vibrant cultural life, most of the museums and attractions do not close till late at night on selected nights. If you are planning to visit the Cologne Cathedral then you may want to come at night time for a brilliant illuminated spectacle or strolling around the fairy tale streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) following your pub crawl.
Cologne is reputed by its vibrant street artists and musicians. set off for a walk along the squares and the alleys of the city and be astonished by the bright energy of the city. By combining such experiences you build a better picture of Cologne and make your travel authentic with memorable memories. Don’t forget to use the photo opportunities along the city in the evenings. They are numerous.
Safety First: Responsible Pub Crawling
Responsible drinking is paramount. Take it easy, drink and know your limits. Never drink and drive; use public transport or taxis to stay safe and let others stay safe. Appoint a driver or make use of different means of transport. Your security is important, and it should be kept as top priority throughout your Cologne adventure.
Two words: Raise a Kölsch to an unforgettable Cologne pub crawl!
Cologne serves a very special pub crawl adventure. Upon blending careful preparation with a pinch of spontaneity and a large quantity of respect to local customs, your Cologne pub crawl will become an adventure it will be impossible to forget. Remember to enjoy the passionate mood of the city, taste its wide range of amenities and feel every second of your adventurous nightlife in Cologne. More or less, pull up a Kölsch to an awesome evening out in one of Germany’s most exciting cities!
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