The very best 12 nightlife spots in Cologne, Germany
Welcome to Cologne, the city that knows how to party! Prepare yourself for a wild night out as we unveil the best 12 nightlife spots in town. From lively beer gardens where you can cheers with the locals to quirky underground clubs that will make you question reality, Cologne has it all. So grab your dancing shoes, unleash your inner party animal, and let the night unfold in this vibrant city full of possibilities.
Save destination1. Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch
Salzgasse 13, 50667 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch, where the beer flows like a mighty river and the pork knuckles are the stuff of legend! Nestled in the heart of Cologne, this historic brewery-turned-pub is a beer lover's paradise. Step inside and prepare to be transported to a place where centuries-old brewing traditions and hearty German cuisine collide in a glorious symphony of deliciousness. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just a thirsty traveler seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch is the ultimate destination for a frothy, fun-filled experience.
Learn more2. Braustelle
Christianstraße 2, 50825 Köln, Germany
Welcome, dear travelers, to the quirky little gem known as Braustelle in Cologne - a place where delicious brews dance merrily with eccentricity! Nestled amidst the cobblestone streets, this whimsical concoction of a brewery takes beer appreciation to a whole new level. Step inside and be greeted by a vibrant mishmash of mismatched furniture, wacky decor, and an ambiance that screams "We don't take ourselves too seriously!" Sip on their signature brews, lovingly crafted with a sprinkle of madness, and soak in the bohemian charm of this beer lover's paradise.
Learn more3. Sion Brauhaus
Unter Taschenmacher 5-7, 50667 Köln, Germany
Nestled in the heart of Cologne, Sion Brauhaus is a mischievous little tavern that takes beer as seriously as your grandmother takes her knitting needles. With its traditional, yet quirky ambiance, this place is a beer lover's heaven, where the only thing higher than your alcohol tolerance is the laughter echoing from every corner. Whether you are a tourist in need of a refreshing drink or a beer connoisseur searching for that perfect brew, Sion Brauhaus is guaranteed to quench your thirst for both libations and laughter in equal measures.
Learn more4. Em Kölsche Boor
Eigelstein 121-123, 50668 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Em Kölsche Boor, where the heartiest Kölsch beer flows like a heavenly river of frothy goodness! This local watering hole in Cologne is all about embracing your inner "Kölsche Boor" (Cologne native), so prepare your taste buds for a deliciously indulgent adventure. With its lively atmosphere, charming decor, and the friendliest staff this side of the Rhine, you'll quickly find yourself sipping Kölsch like a certified expert in no time!
Learn more5. Päffgen
Friesenstraße 64-66, 50670 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Päffgen in Cologne, where the foam on your beer reaches the heavens and the history of hops comes alive. As you step into this charming Brauhaus, be prepared to cozy up to friendly locals sporting impressive beer bellies and boasting pints bigger than their heads. With its rustic ambiance and traditional cuisine, Päffgen is the perfect spot to soak up the Cologne spirit while raising your glass, but beware, one too many Kölschs may have you dancing like a Rhein nymph in no time!
Learn more6. Brauhaus zur Eule
Alteburger Str. 299, 50968 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Brauhaus zur Eule, where history and beer flow in harmony like an unruly river through Cologne's heart. Step into this jovial establishment, known affectionately as "The Owl," and your senses will flutter with delight as the scent of hearty bratwurst intertwines with the intoxicating aroma of freshly brewed Kölsch. Prepare to unleash your inner owl, for here the time-worn timber walls whisper tales of merry misadventures while the jovial staff serve foamy pints of liquid gold, as if happiness were on tap.
Learn more7. Bierhaus en d'r Salzgass
Salzgasse 5-7, 50667 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Bierhaus en d'r Salzgass, where hearty German cuisine and a lively atmosphere await you in Cologne! Enter through the doors and step into a world where every problem is solved with a cheerful "Prost!" and the clinking of gigantic beer steins. This quirky establishment offers a German experience like no other, leaving you with memories, a happy belly, and perhaps a questionable karaoke rendition of "Ein Prosit" stuck in your head.
Learn more8. Fruh Brauhaus
Am Hof 12-18, 50667 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Fruh Brauhaus in Cologne, where the quality of their beer is so impressive, even the local pigeons can't resist trying to sneak in for a sip! Nestled in the heart of the city, this lively brewery offers a truly authentic experience, complete with waiters who have mastered the art of juggling steins without getting soaked (most of the time). Whether you're a beer aficionado or just a casual drinker, Fruh Brauhaus guarantees a hoptastic time that you'll soon be foaming at the mouth to repeat.
Learn more9. Brauerei zur Malzmühle
Heumarkt 6, 50667 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Brauerei zur Malzmühle, where the brewing magic happens in Cologne! Step inside this historic brewery and prepare to be embraced by the delicious aroma of malted goodness. As you sip on their world-famous Kölsch beer, be sure to appreciate the charming old-world vibe, quirky Bavarian decor, and the gentle hum of enthusiastic chatter - all essential ingredients for a jovial beer-drinking experience!
Learn more10. Brauhaus Früh am Dom
Am Hof 12-18, 50667 Köln, Germany
Welcome to Brauhaus Früh am Dom, where beer and laughter flow freely like the Rhine River! Nestled right next to Cologne Cathedral, this charming traditional brewery is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and those who believe in the divine power of a good ale. Brace yourself for a jovial atmosphere, hearty portions of mouth-watering German cuisine, and the subtle art of people-watching, as tourists and locals alike indulge in pints overflowing with liquid happiness.
Learn more11. Hacker-Pschorr Brauhaus
Mühlengasse 1, 50667 Köln, Germany
Welcome to the delightful Hacker-Pschorr Brauhaus in Cologne, where beer aficionados and casual day drinkers unite! Immerse yourself in the cozy yet bustling atmosphere as you bask in the warm embrace of traditional Bavarian hospitality. Be prepared to feast on heaping plates of mouthwatering Bavarian delicacies while quenching your thirst with the heavenly nectar created by the talented beer connoisseurs.
Learn more12. Gaffel am Dom
Bahnhofsvorpl. 1, 50667 Köln, Germany
Nestled beside the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, Gaffel am Dom is practically German engineering for your taste buds. This lively brewery, often mistaken for a beer-filled paradise, is a delightful concoction of regional charm and liquid happiness. Whether you're seeking a hoppy glass of frothy goodness or the perfect excuse to test your Oktoberfest dance moves, this charismatic spot promises an impeccable blend of giggles and good times.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to reach Cologne, Germany by plane is to fly into Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN). Many airlines offer direct flights to CGN from major cities in Europe and beyond.
Car
Driving to Cologne is a great option as the city is well-connected to the rest of the country by the German autobahn. If you are driving from another country, you can take the A1 or A61 highways, which connect Cologne to the Netherlands and Belgium.
Train
Getting to Cologne by train is easy as the city has one of the best train connections in Germany. Cologne's main station is Cologne Hauptbahnhof, which is located in the city center and serves both national and international destinations.
Boat
While there are no direct boat connections to Cologne, you can take a river cruise down the Rhine to nearby cities like Bonn or Düsseldorf and then take a train or bus to Cologne. Cologne also has a large port, the Rheinauhafen, where you can dock your boat and explore the city.
Bus
Traveling to Cologne by bus is an affordable option with many coach companies operating routes to the city. The main bus station in Cologne is the Cologne Central Bus Station (ZOB), located near the train station and the city center.