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Cologne
Cologne Christmas Markets
Cologne Christmas Markets
This decorative German city has a classic, Christmassy atmosphere oozing with charm. From the elaborate illuminations to the marvellous decorations, you're sure to feel festive. Experience the stunning Cologne Christmas markets, indulge in hearty cuisine and gaze at the ornate stonework of this spectacularly beautiful place.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
You’ll be met with a breathtaking display the minute you reach Cologne’s magnificent Cathedral Christmas market. Guaranteed to get you feeling jolly, the rows of red wooden stalls, the twinkling tree and of course, the colossal Cathedral itself, will really dazzle.
Harbour Christmas Market
Held in the beautiful Cologne Harbour, right next to the Chocolate Museum, this stunning market is a lively scene of activity during the weeks leading up to Christmas. Marvel at the gorgeous boats before exploring the pointed-roof tents, filled with crafts and gift ideas.
Markt der Engel
Make your way to the Neumarkt in central Cologne where you’ll find the Market of Angels – the oldest in the city. Explore the pretty, white huts selling gifts galore and move between the chattering tourists. This angel-themed market is a truly enchanting place.
Nikolausdorf Market
Wander the wonderland of Rudolfplatz’s fairytale market. Bright lights, beautiful decorations and the surrounding sights create the perfect setting for a seasonal stroll. Check out the festival stage where you’ll find various acts and events happening throughout the day.
Old Town Market
A traditional treat for adults and kids alike, the Old Town market is also known as ‘The Home of the Gnomes’ after the story of the little helpers who assisted the city to prepare for Christmas. Enjoy the sound of carols, hunt for souvenirs or glide around the ice rink.
Stadtgarten Market
A quieter option if you’re looking to veer away from the busy crowds, Stadtgarten Christmas market is held in the municipal garden. Festive music creates an idyllic atmosphere as you discover unique finds among the pretty stalls.
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Hilton Cologne
Cologne City, Cologne
plus
Our rating
Based on 349 reviews
0.3 Km to Cologne Christmas Markets
- Great for sightseeing
- Delicious a la carte restaurant
- Cocktail bar on-site
- 350m from Cologne Cathedral and Christmas market
- Certified Sustainable Hotel
£441pp
Based on
- Birmingham, Fri 26 Dec 2025
- 3 Nights, Bed and Breakfast
- 2 Adults, 0 Children
- Prices are cached and updated daily
Pullman Cologne
Cologne City, Cologne
Our rating
Based on 2410 reviews
0.9 Km to Cologne Christmas Markets
- Comfortable spacious rooms
- Warm and friendly service
- 850m from Cologne Cathedral and Christmas market
- Spa facilities
- 1.1km from Museum Ludwig
Courtyard by Marriott Cologne
Cologne City, Cologne
Our rating
Based on 934 reviews
0.9 Km to Cologne Christmas Markets
- In house bar and restaurant
- Spacious, modern rooms
- 550m from the nearest metro station
- 1.6km from Cologne Old Town
- Certified Sustainable Hotel
Cologne Cathedral
Cologne city break
Cologne Cathedral is the city's most famous piece of architecture, and Germany's largest cathedral, attracting about 20,000 people a day. There’s been a cathedral on this spot since the 1200s, although the...
0.1 Km to Cologne Christmas Markets - Map
Cologne City Hall
Cologne city break
Cologne City Hall dates back over 900 years and is still in use today. It’s particularly famous for its Renaissance façade, which was erected in the 1500s. It’s decorated with hundreds of sculptures including...
0.3 Km to Cologne Christmas Markets - Map
Perfume Museum
Cologne Christmas Markets
Cologne is of course famous for its perfume. Take a sniff of authentic Eau de Cologne at the house where it was first developed by John Maria Farina. After checking out the distillery and lavishly furnished...
0.4 Km to Cologne Christmas Markets - Map
1. Days of discovery
You can always come in from the cold in Cologne, thanks to the fascinating museums in the city. Take a break from the markets and make your way to Museum Ludwig to see works by Picasso, Warhol and Lichtenstein.
2. Love is in the air
Be part of the romantic tradition of adding a ‘love lock’ to Hohenzollern Bridge. Take your other half to the famous bridge and attach a padlock as a symbol of your unbreakable bond!
3. Take to the water
What better way to see the city than by sailing down the River Rhine? Float past famous landmarks and experience Cologne from every angle. Don’t forget that camera!
4. Spiritual sights
There’s every opportunity to get into the spirit of Christmas at Cologne’s many religious buildings too. As well as the Gothic marvel of the Cologne Cathedral, the city features twelve Romanesque churches.
5. Glittering nights
The local favourite of egg or apple punch is a fantastic way to celebrate nights spent at Cologne’s Christmas markets. How blissful does that sound?
6. Chocolate galore!
Even the words ‘Chocolate Museum’ should be enough to tantalise your taste buds, but step inside and enter a place of dreams! It doesn’t get much sweeter, if you ask us...
FAQs
When do the Cologne Christmas markets typically open and close?
The Cologne Christmas markets usually open in the last week of November and run until 23 December, with some markets (like the Harbour Market) sometimes extending until Boxing Day (26 December). Specific dates vary slightly each year, so it's best to check the official Cologne tourism website closer to your travel time.
How many different Christmas markets are there in Cologne?
Cologne boasts several distinct Christmas markets, generally around seven or eight main ones, each with its own unique theme and atmosphere. The most well-known are located at Cologne Cathedral, Alter Markt, Neumarkt, Rudolfplatz and the Harbour Market.
What kind of food and drink can I expect to find at the markets?
You'll be spoilt for choice! Expect traditional German festive treats like glühwein (mulled wine, often with a shot of rum or Amaretto called "mit Schuss"), reibekuchen (potato fritters served with apple sauce), bratwurst (grilled sausage), champignons (sautéed mushrooms with garlic sauce), dampfnudeln (sweet steamed dumplings with vanilla sauce), lebkuchen (gingerbread) and various candied nuts.
Are the Christmas markets suitable for children?
Absolutely! Many markets are very family friendly. The Alter Markt offers a dedicated children's area with a carousel and small rides, and the Rudolfplatz market (Nikolausdorf) has a lovely fairytale theme that children adore. There are also plenty of sweet treats and child-friendly activities.
