Bachelor party in Cologne for men & women: Tips and ideas for program, party & planning

You are planning an unforgettable bachelor party and have chosen the vibrant city of Cologne? Perfect! In this article you’ll learn everything you need for planning: from the best activities and sights to culinary highlights and the hottest party locations.

Get inspired and create a bachelor party that will be remembered!

What makes Cologne special?

Cologne is more than just a city – it’s a way of life. The Rhenish metropolis is known for its fun-loving inhabitants, the Cologne Cathedral, the delicious Kölsch beer and of course the Cologne Carnival. The city on the Rhine impresses with its mixture of historical sights and modern architecture, cultural diversity and a lively pub and club scene.

In Cologne, tradition meets modernity, and this is also reflected in the wide range of options for an unforgettable bachelor party.

Program & activities for your Bachelor Party

The bachelor party in Cologne will only be as good as the program, so plan well in advance and set the priorities together. Here are a few ideas for inspiration.

Exclusive program in Cologne

1. Brewery Tour: Cologne is famous for its delicious Kölsch beer, and a tour of the city’s traditional breweries is an absolute must. For all beer lovers, this is just the thing! On a guided tour, you can experience Cologne’s beer culture up close and personal. The cost is around 22 euros per person, and the tour usually lasts 2-3 hours.
2. Visit Cologne Cathedral: Cologne Cathedral is not only a landmark of the city, but also a perfect place for souvenir photos. If you are interested in history and architecture, a visit to Cologne Cathedral is an absolute highlight. Admission is free, but you will be charged 4 euros to climb the tower. Plan at least 1-2 hours for your visit.
3. Party Bus Tour: A party bus tour through the streets of Cologne is another popular activity for your bachelor party. Here you can explore the city and party hard at the same time. This is perfect for all the party animals among you! A one-hour tour costs about 290 euros. Plan at least 1-2 hours to enjoy the full party experience.
4. Cocktail course: How about a cocktail course? Here you can learn from experienced bartenders how to mix delicious cocktails. Perfect for all cocktail lovers who want to expand their knowledge. A course costs about 45 euros per person and lasts about 3 hours.
5. Beer Bike Tour: If you are looking for fun and activity, a beer bike tour is just the thing for you! On a beer bike you can cycle together through the streets of Cologne and enjoy a beer or two. This fun and unique tour is perfect for groups and costs from 25 euros per person for a two-hour tour.
6. 3D Minigolf: How about a round of minigolf in a fluorescent, 3D environment? Here you can enter a fascinating world of fun and games. For those who love fun, this is a great activity. A round costs about 11 euros per person, and the duration is about 2 hours.
7. Visit the Chocolate Museum: For those of you with a sweet tooth, a visit to the Chocolate Museum in Cologne is an absolute must! Here you can dive into the world of chocolate and learn more about its production. Admission costs about 12.50 euros per person. Plan at least 2 hours for your visit.
8. Visit Phantasialand: If you are looking for fun and action, then a visit to Phantasialand, one of the largest theme parks in Germany, is a fantastic choice. Here you can experience pure adrenaline and share unforgettable moments with your group. The entrance fee is about 47.50 euros per person. Plan at least half a day for your visit.
9. Rheinpark and Rheinufer: A relaxing walk along the banks of the Rhine or a visit to the Rheinpark are perfect activities to enjoy nature and relax. Whether you want to enjoy the picturesque view of the river or the green parks, this is optimal for all nature lovers. Free of charge and flexible in time.
10. Cologne Carnival: If your bachelor party takes place during the carnival season, then you should definitely participate in the carnival festivities. Here you can party, dance and immerse yourself in the colorful hustle and bustle of Carnival. The cost and schedule vary depending on the event.
11. KölnTriangle: Experience a breathtaking view of Cologne from the KölnTriangle, a 103-meter high building with an observation deck. This is a definite highlight for anyone who loves a great view. Admission costs about 3 euros per person.
12. Cologne Tour: Take a boat ride on the Rhine and enjoy the wonderful view of the city. A relaxing activity for those who want to explore the city from the water. A trip costs about 10 euros per person and takes about 1 hour.
13. Kölsch-Krimi: Take part in an interactive mystery dinner where you have to solve an exciting murder case. Perfect for those who love detective stories and want to enjoy a delicious dinner at the same time. Dinner costs about 79 euros per person and lasts about 4 hours.
14. Carnival Museum: visit the Carnival Museum and learn more about the history and traditions of the Cologne Carnival. An interesting activity for those interested in culture and history. Admission costs about 6 euros per person.
15. Street Art Tour: Take a guided tour of the Ehrenfeld neighborhood and discover the city’s impressive street art. This is optimal for all art lovers who want to be inspired by the creative works. A tour costs about 15 euros per person and lasts about 2 hours.
16. Kölsch Brewery Workshop: Learn how the famous Kölsch beer is brewed in a workshop. Perfect for all beer lovers who want to expand their knowledge. A workshop costs about 79 euros per person and lasts about 4 hours.
17. Rheinauhafen: Walk through the modern Rheinauhafen and enjoy the impressive view of the Rhine. This is optimal for those who love architecture and beautiful views. Free of charge and flexible in time.
18. Köln Arcaden: Go shopping at the Köln Arcaden, a large shopping center with over 130 stores. This is perfect for those who love to store and discover new trends. The cost varies depending on the store and purchases.
19. Roman-Germanic Museum: Visit the Roman-Germanic Museum and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of ancient Cologne. Here you can learn more about the Roman history of the city. Admission costs about 9 euros per person.
20. Cologne Comedy Tour: Take a comedy tour of Cologne and let the comedians’ funny stories and jokes make you laugh. Perfect for those who love humor and want to experience an entertaining evening. A tour costs about 25 euros per person and lasts about 1.5 hours.

Classics in any city

1. Pub Crawl: A pub crawl is an absolute must to enjoy the local pub scene to the fullest. Here you can go out, drink and meet new people. Whether you’re looking for the best beer or the tastiest cocktails, a pub crawl has something for everyone. The cost varies depending on the pub and your drinks. Plan on at least 3-4 hours to enjoy the full pub experience.
2. Beauty Day: A beauty day is the perfect opportunity to relax, get pampered and feel completely at ease. Indulge in massages, facials and manicures and enjoy time away from the daily grind. This relaxing activity is especially popular with women. Costs vary depending on the salon and the treatments you choose. Plan on at least half a day to really unwind.
3. Paintball: For all action lovers, paintball is the ideal activity! Plunge into exciting battles, get your adrenaline pumping and show off your strategic skills. Whether you’re competing with friends or against other groups, paintball is guaranteed to be a lot of fun. A session costs about 35 euros per person and lasts about 2-3 hours.
4. Cooking class: Let your culinary skills blossom and dive into the world of cooking. In a cooking class you can discover new recipes, learn techniques and prepare delicious dishes together. This is the perfect activity for anyone who loves to cook and eat. A course costs about 70 euros per person and lasts about 3-4 hours. At the end you can enjoy your home-cooked feast!
5. Wine tasting: Dive into the world of fine wines and experience an elegant wine tasting. Here you can taste different wines, discover their aromas and expand your knowledge about wine. A wine tasting is a pleasure for all senses and especially suitable for wine lovers. The cost is about 30 euros per person, and the duration is about 2-3 hours. Cheers!
6. Stand-Up Paddling on the Rhine: Explore the Rhine on a stand-up paddle board while enjoying the beautiful view of the city. Perfect for those who love outdoor activities and water sports. Costs vary depending on the provider and duration.
7. Escape Room: Immerse yourself in an exciting adventure and solve tricky puzzles together in an Escape Room. Ideal for those who like to put their heads together and master challenges. The costs vary depending on the provider and the duration is usually 1-2 hours.
8. Brewing course: Learn the art of brewing beer from real brewmasters. In a brewing course, you can brew your own beer, from the basics to bottling. Perfect for beer lovers and those who like to try new things. Costs vary depending on the course and duration.
9. River Cruise: Take a relaxing river cruise on the Rhine and enjoy panoramic views of the Cologne skyline. Ideal for those looking for a quiet and scenic activity. The cost varies depending on the provider and the duration is usually 1-2 hours.
10. Beer Garden Tour: take a tour of Cologne’s best beer gardens and sample a variety of local beers. Enjoy the convivial ambiance and relaxed atmosphere of the beer gardens. Perfect for beer lovers and those who enjoy being outside. Costs vary depending on the beer garden and drinks.
11. Spa Day: Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa day and indulge in massages, sauna sessions and wellness treatments. Ideal for those who want to take some time out and relax. Costs vary depending on the spa and the treatments chosen.
12. Sailing tour on the Rhine: Set sail and explore the Rhine on a sailing tour. Enjoy the wind in your hair and the freedom on the water. Perfect for those who love sailing or want to experience something new. The cost varies depending on the provider and the duration is usually 2-3 hours.
13. Dinner in the Dark: Experience an extraordinary culinary experience and enjoy a dinner in the dark. Here you will rediscover your senses and perceive the aromas and tastes more intensely. Ideal for those who want to embark on a unique culinary journey. The cost varies depending on the restaurant and menu.
14. Cocktail cruise on the Rhine: Enjoy delicious cocktails and dance to music aboard a party boat on the Rhine. A cocktail cruise is a fun way to turn night into day. Perfect for party animals and anyone who loves to party. The cost varies depending on the provider and the duration is usually 3-4 hours.
15. Climbing Park: put your skills and courage to the test and embark on a climbing park adventure course. Overcome obstacles, climb at lofty heights and enjoy the adrenaline rush. Ideal for those seeking challenges and thrills. The cost varies depending on the climbing park and the duration is usually 2-3 hours.

Especially popular with women

1. Pamper Day: Pamper yourself from head to toe with a pamper day at a first-class spa with soothing massages, sauna sessions and pure relaxation. Perfect for all the ladies who crave some time off and want to be pampered all around. The cost varies depending on the spa and the treatments chosen. Plan for half a day to enjoy pure relaxation.
2. Shopping Extravaganza: Dive into Cologne’s diverse shopping world, from luxurious boutiques to charming vintage stores. Embark on an extensive shopping tour and discover the latest fashion trends or unique treasures. Perfect for all fashionistas and shopaholics who crave a top-notch shopping experience. Costs vary depending on the store and your individual shopping preferences. Plan for half a day to explore the shopping world of Cologne.
3. Yoga Flow: Leave stress behind and find your inner peace with a relaxing yoga session. Immerse yourself in the world of yoga and feel your body and mind come into harmony. Perfect for those who strive for fitness, relaxation and inner balance. A session costs about 15 euros per person and lasts 1-2 hours.
4. Creative Jewelry Workshop: Create your own unique jewelry at a creative jewelry workshop. Let your imagination run wild and create individual pieces of jewelry according to your taste. Perfect for those who want to live out their creative streak and create something unique. The workshop costs about 50 euros per person and lasts 2-3 hours.
5. Pure dance joy: Learn the basic steps and refined moves at a rousing dance class, be it salsa, tango or another dance style. Let yourself be carried away by the music and experience a lot of fun and movement. Perfect for all dance enthusiasts who want to shake a leg and learn new moves. A course costs about 15 euros per person and lasts 1-2 hours.

Especially popular with men

1. Beer Discovery Tour: Let a fascinating beer tasting take you on a journey through the local beer scene. Here you will experience the variety and taste of different types of beer and learn exciting background information about the art of brewing. Whether you are an experienced beer lover or a curious beginner, this tasting is for everyone who is passionate about beer. The cost is about 30 euros per person and the tasting usually lasts 2-3 hours.
2. Soccer Fever: Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of soccer by experiencing a live game in one of the soccer stadiums, such as 1 FC Cologne. Immerse yourself in the passionate atmosphere, cheer on your team and let yourself be carried away by the thrilling action on the pitch. Soccer fans will get their money’s worth here. The cost varies depending on the game and seating. Plan on at least 3-4 hours for this experience to enjoy the full soccer atmosphere.
3. Adrenaline in the fast lane: strap in and feel the thrill of go-karting as you race around corners at high speeds. Let your rivalry blossom on the track and experience the rush of speed. This activity is perfect for those who want to feel the adrenaline pulsing through their veins and crave an action-packed time. A go-karting session costs about 30 euros per person and usually lasts 2 hours.
4. Grill master course: unleash your inner grill genius and learn the art of perfect grilling at a grill master course. From the best grilling techniques to sophisticated marinades and delicious side dishes, you’ll be trained to be a grilling pro. This course is ideal for anyone who wants to light the fire and take their grilling skills to the next level. The cost is about 70 euros per person and the course usually lasts 3-4 hours.
5. Whisky Enjoyment: Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of whisky and enjoy an elegant tasting, where you will taste various exquisite varieties and gain exciting insights into the art of whisky making. This experience is for all whisky lovers who want to indulge their senses and expand their knowledge. The cost is about 40 euros per person and the tasting usually lasts 2-3 hours.

Culinary specialties

Cologne is not only known for its Kölsch beer, but also for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are some culinary ideas for your bachelor party in Cologne:

Foodies

1. BelgianQuarter: The Belgian Quarter is known for its trendy cafes, bars and restaurants. Here you’ll find a variety of culinary options, from traditional German cuisine to international specialties.
2. Südstadt: Südstadt is another culinary highlight in Cologne. Here you will find many cozy pubs and restaurants serving delicious local and international dishes.
3. Eigelsteinviertel: The Eigelsteinviertel is known for its traditional Cologne breweries and restaurants serving local specialties such as Himmel un Ääd (Heaven and Earth) and Halver Hahn.

Typical dishes

1. Himmel un Ääd: This traditional Cologne dish consists of black pudding, mashed potatoes and apple sauce – an unusual but delicious combination.
2. Halver Hahn: Despite the name (Halber Hahn means “half chicken” in German), this is a rye roll with Gouda cheese.
3. Rhenish Sauerbraten: A classic dish from the Rhineland where the meat is marinated in a mixture of vinegar and spices for several days and then slowly braised.

Famous restaurants

1. Bei Oma Kleinmann: This restaurant is famous for its huge schnitzels and cozy atmosphere. It is a must for any schnitzel lover.
2. Brauhaus Sion: One of the oldest breweries in Cologne, known for its delicious Kölsch beer and traditional German dishes.
3. Hanse-Stube: If you’re looking for a more upscale culinary experience, Hanse-Stube is a great choice. This restaurant is known for its excellent French and regional cuisine and has won several awards.

Whether you want to try traditional Cologne dishes, dine at one of the many restaurants, or simply stroll the culinary streets of the city, Cologne has something for everyone.

Party

Cologne is known for its vibrant nightlife and offers a variety of nightlife districts, clubs and bars that cater to all tastes. Here are some of the best places to party in Cologne:

Nightlife district

1. Zülpicher Straße and Zülpicher Viertel: This neighborhood is especially popular with students and offers a variety of bars, pubs and clubs. It is easy to reach by subway line 9 to the Zülpicher Platz stop. Here the crowd is young and the atmosphere is relaxed and lively. There is no special dress code, so come as you are merry and enjoy the night.
2. BelgianQuarter: The Belgian Quarter is known for its trendy bars and clubs. It is easy to reach by taking the subway lines 3, 4, 5, 12 or 15 to the Friesenplatz stop. The crowd here is a mix of hipsters, artists and fashionistas. The dress code is rather fancy, so dress accordingly.
3. Ringe and Friesenstraße: This neighborhood is the heart of Cologne’s nightlife with many clubs and bars. It is easy to get to by taking subway lines 3, 4, 5, 12 or 15 to the Friesenplatz stop. The crowd here is mixed and there is no specific dress code.

Clubs/ Bars

1. Bootshaus: This club is one of the best in Germany and is known for its electronic music. It is located a bit outside the city center, but is easy to reach by cab or subway line 7 to the Poller Kirchweg stop.
2. Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld (CBE): The CBE is a popular place for concerts and club nights with a mixture of different music styles. It is located in Ehrenfeld and can easily be reached by taking the S-Bahn line 12 or 13 to the Köln-Ehrenfeld stop.
3. Sixpack: This bar in the Zülpicher Viertel is known for its rock music and casual atmosphere. It is easy to reach by subway line 9 to the Zülpicher Platz stop.
4. Odonien: Odonien is a club and art park in one and offers a unique atmosphere. It is located a bit outside the city center, but is easy to reach by cab or subway line 13 to the stop Escher Straße.
5. Päffgen: This traditional brewery and bar in the Belgian Quarter is the perfect place to enjoy a freshly tapped Kölsch. It’s easy to reach by taking subway lines 3, 4, 5, 12 or 15 to the Friesenplatz stop.

Whether you want to dance until the wee hours of the morning or just enjoy a few drinks with friends, Cologne has something for every party-goer.

Sights

Cologne is a city with a rich history and culture, which is reflected in its numerous sights. Here are some of the most famous sights you should visit during your bachelor party in Cologne:

1. Cologne Cathedral: the Cologne Cathedral is the city’s landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its impressive towers and stunning Gothic architecture, the cathedral is a must-see for any visitor. It is located right in the city center next to the main train station. Especially remarkable is the view from the south tower, from which you have a fantastic view over the city.
2. Old Town: Cologne’s Old Town is known for its picturesque alleys, colorful houses and traditional breweries. It is located on the banks of the Rhine and is a great place to soak up the city’s atmosphere, drink a Kölsch beer or enjoy a traditional meal.
3. Roman-Germanic Museum: this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Roman times and offers a glimpse into Cologne’s history as an important Roman city. It is located near the cathedral.
4. Museum Ludwig: The Museum Ludwig is one of the most important modern art museums in Germany and houses works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol and Lichtenstein. It is located right next to the Cologne Cathedral.
5. Hohenzollern Bridge: This impressive bridge over the Rhine River is not only an important transportation hub, but also a popular place for lovers to place a lock with their names on it. From the bridge you have a fantastic view of the cathedral and the old town.
6. Rheinauhafen: Rheinauhafen is a modern neighborhood that offers an impressive mix of historic buildings and modern architecture. Here you will also find the Chocolate Museum and the German Sport & Olympia Museum.
7. Groß St. Martin: This impressive Romanesque church is one of the most prominent landmarks in Cologne’s Old Town. It is located in the middle of the old town and is an impressive sight, especially at night when it is illuminated.
8. Botanical Garden Flora: This beautiful botanical garden is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. It is located in the Riehl district and is especially worth a visit in the spring and summer.
9. KölnTriangle: The KölnTriangle is a modern skyscraper with an observation deck that offers a breathtaking view of the cathedral and the city. It is located on the right side of the Rhine opposite the cathedral.
10. Cologne Zoo: The Cologne Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Germany and is home to a variety of animals. It is located in the Riehl district and is a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

Each of these attractions offers a unique insight into the history, culture and way of life in Cologne and is definitely worth a visit.

Planning Tips

A bachelor party is a special event that should be well planned to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are some tips for planning your bachelor party in Cologne:

• Plan early: startplanning at least a few months in advance. This will give you enough time to book accommodations, plan activities, and make sure everyone is available.
• Book/Reserve: Some activities, such as table reservations at popular restaurants or tickets to events, should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options in Cologne to suit different budgets:

• Hostels: Hostels are a budget option and often a good choice for larger groups. Popular hostels in Cologne include Pathpoint Cologne and Die Wohngemeinschaft.
• Youth Hostels: Youth hostels such as the DJH City-Hostel Köln-Riehl offer affordable accommodations and are a good option for budget travelers.
• Hotels: Cologne has a wide range of hotels, from budget options to luxury hotels. The Excelsior Hotel Ernst and the Hyatt Regency are popular upscale options.
• Airbnb: Airbnb offers a variety of accommodations, from private rooms to entire apartments or houses. This can be a good option if you have a larger group or want more privacy.

In terms of location, it’s best to choose accommodation near the city center or in one of the popular nightlife areas like the Belgian Quarter or South City. This will make traveling easier and allow you to make the most of your stay in Cologne.

Arrival/ Mobility

Cologne is easily accessible by train, car and plane. Cologne’s main train station is an important hub in the German rail network and offers connections to many German and European cities. Cologne/Bonn Airport offers flights to many national and international destinations.

In the city itself, the public transportation network is well developed and includes subways, streetcars and buses. A day ticket for public transport costs about 9 euros.

Alternatively, you can rent a bike or use an e-scooter to get around the city. There are several bike rental and e-scooter providers in the city, and costs vary depending on the provider and length of use.

Disguise

Whether or not you choose to dress up for the bachelor party is entirely up to you and the style of the bachelor party. Some groups prefer to dress up to highlight the festivities and have fun, while others prefer to dress more low-key. Here are some options if you decide to dress up:

1. T-shirts: a popular option is to create matching t-shirts for the entire group. These can be printed with the groom/bride’s name, the date of the bachelor party, and/or a funny saying. It’s a simple and effective way to keep the group together while having a fun memento of the day.
2. Costumes: costumes can be a fun and eye-catching way to celebrate the bachelor party. The options are endless, from superhero and movie character costumes to traditional bachelor party costumes like fun hats and sashes. Keep in mind, however, that not all venues allow costumes, especially some of the more upscale bars and clubs.
3. Theme: another option is to have a theme for the bachelor party and have everyone dress up accordingly. The theme could be something the groom/bride loves, like a certain movie, sports team, or hobby. A theme can be a fun way to personalize the day and ensure it is truly memorable.

Alternatives/excursions in the area

If you have some time during your bachelor party in Cologne and want to explore the surrounding area, there are many interesting places and cities you can visit. Here are some suggestions:

Interesting cities nearby

1. Düsseldorf: Just a short train ride from Cologne, Düsseldorf is known for its fashion, art and lively old town. You can visit the famous Königsallee, one of the most luxurious shopping streets in Germany, or explore the Medienhafen district, known for its modern architecture.
2. Bonn: The former capital of Germany is located south of Cologne and is rich in history and culture. You can visit the birthplace of Beethoven or take a stroll along the picturesque Rhine promenade.
3. Aachen: Known for its historic Old Town and impressive Aachen Cathedral, Aachen is another great option for a day trip.

Nature/ Beautiful Places Nearby

1. Rheinsteig: This hiking trail runs along the Rhine River and offers breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley. There are many different routes to choose from depending on your fitness level and available time.
2. Siebengebirge: This beautiful mountain range is located south of Cologne and is a great place to hike and enjoy nature. You can climb the Drachenfels, from where you have a fantastic view of the Rhine.
3. Phantasialand: If you’re looking for something more action-packed, Phantasialand, a large theme park near Cologne, is a great option. With a variety of roller coasters and attractions, it’s fun for young and old.

Conclusion

A bachelor party in Cologne offers plenty of options, whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, exciting activities or just a good party. With its lively atmosphere, rich history and numerous attractions, Cologne is the perfect place to have an unforgettable bachelor party.

You are not sure yet if you want to celebrate your bachelor party in Cologne? Then take a look at our other city programs: