Visitors to the Farina Fragrance Museum can learn about Giovanni Maria Farina’s early experiments in perfumery and follow the history of the eau de cologne fragrance style from its birth in the Rococo era to its current popularity. Highlights include the chance to see historic distillation apparatus, learn about the perfume-making process, and smell a variety of ingredients. Visits to the Farina Fragrance Museum must join a guided tour, so book ahead to ensure entry.
Admission price includes a guided tour of the museum; entrance is free for children under 10. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for English-language tours.
Tours last about 45 minutes, but plan to spend at least an hour at the museum, especially if you want to spend time at the gift shop.
The on-site gift shop offers a range of colognes.
The museum is not accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
The museum is located on the corner of Obenmarspforten and Unter Goldschmied. The closest metro station is Köln Rathaus (Line 5), just a short stroll away.
The museum is open every day, year-round. Guides runs several private and group tours each day, in multiple languages, and advance booking is highly recommended. It is possible to visit the shop without touring.
Cologne’s other renowned perfume brand is 4711, which has been producing its original eau de cologne since 1792. Perfume enthusiasts can also visit the popular 4711 House of Fragrances perfume shop, a short walk from Cologne Cathedral, to tour of the museum or take part in fragrance seminars and perfume-making workshops.
