What is an Eau de Cologne and what is the difference between Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum? 4711 explains it to you

The 4711 fragrance house in Cologne's Glockengasse stands for an exciting variety of modern fragrance experiences and fragrance expertise at the highest level. The number 4711 is often associated with the term "Eau de Cologne". But how did this come about and what are the differences between Eau de Cologne and Eau de Parfum? And what exactly is Eau de Toilette?

Echt Kölnisch Wasser - the origin of the fragrance genre Eau de Cologne

At the end of the 18th century, the merchant and company founder Wilhelm Mülhens took the fragrance market by storm with his Eau de Cologne, now known as "4711 - Genuine Eau de Cologne". As in other large European cities, the predominant sensory impression on the streets in Cologne was the stench. And from today's perspective, the sanitary facilities also left a lot to be desired. The invigorating and refreshing "miracle water" of the company founder of 4711 came at just the right time and quickly became a bestseller. In the beginning, 4711 Genuine Eau de Cologne, known as "Aqua Mirabilis", was even explicitly marketed as a medical product and used as such as a drinking cure.

From Medical Device to Global Brand

At that time, Cologne was firmly in French hands and so the perfume from Cologne's Glockengasse soon became known under the elegant name "Eau de Cologne". The city quickly developed into the center of European perfumery and received its unique protected trademark with the Echt Eau de Cologne. Even today, the city attracts perfume fans from all over the world, who can experience the traditional brand's extensive selection of fragrances first hand in the 4711 fragrance house.

The dosage is important

The Eau de Cologne is characterized as a fragrance by its refreshing lightness. The secret: the perfume dosage of the Eau de Cologne is relatively low at three to seven percent and therefore less intrusive. In comparison, the Eau de Parfum is significantly more intense with up to 20 percent perfume content. And what is the difference between Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum? Quite simply, the Eau de Toilette is exactly between Eau de Cologne and Eau de Parfum with 7 to 15 percent perfume content. The advantage of the Eau de Cologne lies in its incomparable lightness, which delights connoisseurs every day. It is therefore perfect for quick refreshment on the go and invigorates body and mind in no time. The 4711 Echt Kölnisch Wasser combines the positive effects of the valuable essential oils that we know from aromatherapy.

A Miracle Water in Transition

As a modern traditional brand, 4711 has continuously and extensively expanded its product range over the centuries. But the basic idea always remains the same: Our perfumers create inspiring fragrance moments that invite their wearers to exciting olfactory journeys. This claim is particularly reflected in the fragrances of ACQUA COLONIA and ACQUA COLONIA INTENSE against.

Surprising scent journeys to places of longing around the world

Each fragrance from 4711 ACQUA COLONIA INTENSE presents a special facet of nature in its extraordinary and high-quality bottles. If you close your eyes and let yourself drift, these fragrances will transport you to a dream beach in Africa or the lofty heights of the Himalayas in no time at all. And with 4711 ACQUA COLONIA INTENSE REFRESHING LAGOONS OF LAOS you will discover mysterious lagoons in the rainforest. The tropical-fresh fragrance is the result of unique perfumery skills and impresses with its long-lasting fragrance experience. The aromas of grapefruit, fresh cucumber and green apple combine to create a colorful, refreshing composition. There are also nuances of lotus, rose and green violet leaves. Sandalwood, white amber and musk elegantly round off the composition with their special character.

A visit to the fragrance house 4711

If we have awakened your wanderlust, just pay us a visit. The headquarters of the traditional brand 4711 in Cologne's Glockengasse is the perfect place to experience the world of 4711 fragrances up close and with all your senses. With its 100,000 guests every year, the fragrance house is one of the city's biggest attractions and presents the whole variety of fragrances from the classic 4711 Echt Kölnisch Wasser in its many forms to the wild creations of 4711 Remix to the naturally stimulating fragrances of ACQUA COLONIA and ACQUA COLONIA INTENSE. In the exhibition of the house you can find out more about the History of 4711 experience, take part in a historical tour and find out how the Cologne "miracle water" got its name 4711. If you want to find out more about the difference between Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum, you have come to the right place. Together with our experts in the art of perfumery, you can create your very own personal fragrance to take home in one of the fragrance seminars. And the fragrance house in Glockengasse is also a popular address among gourmets: In a sophisticated four-course menu, the fragrance world of 4711 Echt Kölnisch Wasser with its seven main ingredients can be experienced in a culinary way and is a unique pleasure.