6 Best Christmas Market in Cologne
The decorations at Cologne’s Christmas markets are fantastic and diverse, making them some of the best in Germany. Each market is uniquely themed, from traditional to modern, with tremendous attention to detail. This variety makes them stand out and is one of my favourite markets so far.
Cologne’s city center is home to six large Christmas markets conveniently located at the Cathedral, Alter Markt, Heumarkt, and Neumarkt. All markets are within walking distance, except Stadtgarten, a bit further from the Old Town, so exploring them is a breeze.
Christmas Market Express
The Christmas Market
Express, a charming little train, offers a convenient way to explore four of Cologne’s Christmas markets: Cathedral Christmas Market, Alter Markt, Chocolate Museum, and Neumarkt. The best part? You can hop on and off
as you please, making it a stress-free and enjoyable experience.
Christmas Market dates
From 18 November to 23 December
Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM
Closed on 24 November
Cologne Christmas markets
Harbour Christmas Market is located along the banks of the Rhine River, right in front of the Chocolate Museum.
You cannot miss it, with the giant Ferris wheel and the wooden three-mast boat. There are also many little shops where you can buy mulled wine and other goodies.
On the opposite side of the street is the Mustard Museum. Although the museum is closed, you can buy jars of different mustards. I recommend buying them after visiting the small market on the other side of the street because the jars can be pretty heavy.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is the city’s most beautiful, set against the impressive Gothic cathedral. It features a giant fir tree with 50,000 lights at the top.
Heinzels Wintermärchen
Winter Fairytale (Heinzels Wintermärchen) is a magical market. This market is like stepping into a fairytale with its beautifully decorated wooden stalls. You can also find an open ice rink.
The Angels’ Christmas Market, also known as Markt der Engel, is in the heart of the shopping district and is the oldest Christmas market in the city. This market has an angel theme, with white rustic stalls and illuminated stars hanging from the trees.
The Nicholas’ Village Christmas Market is located against the backdrop of the medieval Hahentorburg, one of the city’s last remaining city gates.
Santa and reindeer displays enhance the Christmas atmosphere.
Stadtgarten Christmas Market, also known as Heavenue Market, is the only gay Christmas market in Cologne. It features a pink stall with glittering clouds, LED lights, and snow-white garlands, giving it a modern twist compared to traditional Christmas markets.
This market is famous for music and dancing, with numerous drag performances and spectacular light shows. It’s best to visit after dark. Over 80 exhibitors change weekly, offering handicrafts and locally made products.
More Photos of Cologne Christmas Market
Walking around town
The Cathedrale
As I emerged from the train station, a grand cathedral caught my eye, sparking my excitement to explore it. The Cathedral’s history is truly remarkable. Due to its inconsistent architecture, it took 632 years to construct.
The construction of this Gothic masterpiece occurred over several stages, commencing in 1248 and concluding in 1880. The lack of a master plan across successive generations led to the diversity in its construction. The interior is truly unique.
Dufthaus 4711
The Dufthaus 4711 Cologne House is a world-famous perfume store in the city’s heart. Its signature scent has been described as “the prettiest-smelling house in Cologne.” If you’re interested in purchasing fragrant skin care products, it’s worth a visit.
The museum at Dufthaus 4711 is open for just a couple of hours on one day. You can learn more about the old collections dating back to the 1900s. Ask for more information on the specific day of your visit.
The exhibition displays some old collections dating back to the 1900s.
It was a fun stop while walking into town.
GALERIA Kaufhof
Galeria Kaufhof is a large department store on Hohe Strasse, a long shopping street where products are available for every taste.
I was interested in stuffed animals, so I purchased a small one for my purse. However, the one I loved was expensive.
The Cat Cafe Temple Cologne
If you’re visiting Cologne, you absolutely can’t miss out on Cologne’s FURRst cat café.
The café has a cozy and warm atmosphere with its vintage sofas, delightful decor, and a welcoming vibe that feels like a living room.
But the real highlight of this place is the four adorable resident cats that freely roam around, adding an extra touch of warmth and joy to your visit. Oh, and the food? Simply delicious, with plenty of choices to pick from!
And you know by now that we always visit cat cafes, even if I am a dog person!!
The Place We Stay
Adagio City Aparthotel
Blaubach 3, 50667 Köln, Germany
The Aparthotel Adagio Köln City offers modern apartments with kitchens and all the services you could wish for, such as breakfast or Internet.
A Food store is just around the corner if you want to cook or snack.
This casual apartment hotel is in the Old Town, a 6-minute walk from a tram stop. It is also close to everything.
From Aachen, it takes only 36 minutes by train
Plan And Book Your Trip
Getting There: Find your train fares using Trainline.
Where to Stay: Booking.com – Expedia us/ca – Tripadvisor
E Sims: Airalo
To do: Look here. Get your guide
additional cost. Read the disclosure
I’d never thought of going to Cologne over the holidays, but it sounds like the place to be if you like Christmas markets. I particularly like the idea of the Angels’ Christmas Market, the decorations and stalls must look magical. Thanks for sharing!
All the Christmas markets are magical. But Cologne and the Cathedrale is WOW!!!
So many fun ones! I love Christmas markets 🙂
I love them also,so magical :O)