Theoretically you can of course also visit the cemetery without a guide, but then you miss the best. The two-hour guided tour by Manfred Speier was extremely entertaining and informative and passed by in a flash. He packs the information in a variety of anecdotes and background information so that it never gets boring, even remotely. We laughed a lot and learned a lot. A very successful afternoon that I can wholeheartedly recommend

Mr. Speier made the tour of the Melaten cemetery a unique experience with his great explanations. Despite the bad weather, we had a very interesting private tour with him and would love to repeat it at any time. Even if we only had 2 hours, we are sure that Mr. Speier could lead us through the cemetery umpteen times and always tell new and different interesting stories about its 'residents'.

One of the most interesting guided tours I've ever done. We were a mixed group of Cologne locals and people who only knew the city a little bit, and Manfred's tour was equally exciting for everyone. Bizarre, funny and crass stories from the history of Cologne are included, told in great detail and wittily. There is absolutely no need to be afraid that the whole thing will turn into a sad tour of the graveyard - the opposite is the case. Definitely do! Manfred Speier is a top guide :)