The Cologne Christmas Markets are a beloved tradition that draws visitors from near and far to the city of Cologne, Germany, during the festive season. These markets are popular for their enchanting atmosphere, decorations and an abundance of unique gifts, crafts and traditional Christmas items, which offer a delightful blend of local and international flavors, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. One of Cologne’s Christmas Market highlights is the Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market, which opens from Monday, November 20, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023. Visitors can explore the stalls of local and international artisans and vendors, discovering treasures from Ukraine, Poland, Germany, Czechia, Scandinavia and the British Isles. The Market of Angels, located at Neumarkt near shopping streets and neighborhoods from Monday, November 20, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It features individually decorated houses and food stands, including cuisine by star chef Maximilian Lorenz. The Cologne Harbour Christmas Market, located riverside next to the Chocolate Museum, has 70 stalls in sail-like pagodas. It is open from Thursday, November 23, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and offers high-quality goods, crafts and food. The Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market, located in Cologne's old town on Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares, opens from Saturday, November 25, 2023, until Sunday, January 07, 2024, from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. It is near the famous Cologne Cathedral and is divided into themed alleys for exploring and the New Year's Market, which is open Tuesday, December 26, 2023 and continues until Sunday, January 07, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm from Monday to Sunday, except on Sunday, December 31, 2023, where it closes until 01:00 am, to meet the New Year.
Listed below are the Cologne Christmas Markets:
- Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market: The Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market opens Monday, November 20, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm. It offers festive entertainment, unique gifts, decorations and traditional Christmas items from local and international artisans and vendors, with highlights such as live music, dance shows, Nicholas boot mugs and products from Ukraine, Poland, Germany, Czechia, Scandinavia and the British Isles.
- The Market of Angels: The Market of Angels is located at Neumarkt near shopping streets and neighborhoods from Monday, November 20, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It features individually decorated houses and food stands, including cuisine by star chef Maximilian Lorenz. Visitors can shop for unique gifts, crafts and decorations at the many stalls while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The famous Cologne Cathedral is located nearby, which is great for exploring.
- Cologne Harbour Christmas Market: The Cologne Harbour Christmas Market is located riverside next to the Chocolate Museum, with 70 stalls in sail-like pagodas. It is open from Thursday, November 23, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and offers high-quality goods, crafts and food. The highlights are the large wooden ship serving mulled wine, the 48-meter Ferris wheel with views, the maritime theme with shanties and pirates and the Lighthouse Spelunke.
- Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market: The Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market is located in Cologne's old town on Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares from Saturday, November 25, 2023 and runs until Sunday, January 07, 2024, from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. It celebrates the legend of the Heinzelmännchen house elves with elaborate decorations and displays. It is near the famous Cologne Cathedral and is divided into themed alleys for exploring.
- New Year's Market: The New Year's Market is open Tuesday, December 26, 2023 and continues until Sunday, January 07, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm from Monday to Sunday, except on Sunday, December 31, 2023, where it closes until 01:00 am. It is located next to the Chocolate Museum along the Rhine and transforms the Cologne Harbour Christmas market into a cozy New Year's celebration. It is filled with lights, music and traditional treats like mulled wine and gingerbread. It features live entertainment, including shanties and pirates.
1. Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market
The Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market is a festive market located in Cologne, Germany. It is at Rudolfplatz, between Neumarkt and the Belgian Quarter, in front of the historic Hahnentorburg, near the Cologne Cathedral, one of the world's most magnificent cathedrals. It opens from Monday, November 20, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, offering a magical and festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
The Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market. offers a lively stage program with performances and entertainment for both children and adults. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance shows and other festive performances. It provides an opportunity to shop for unique and handcrafted gifts, decorations and traditional Christmas items. Visitors can find a wide range of products from local artisans and vendors, including items from Ukraine, Poland, Germany, Czech/Slovakia, Scandinavia and Ireland/British Isles. The highlights of the market are the hot drinks served in a “Nicholas boot mug”, a popular souvenir among visitors. To get to the Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market, visitors can take a train or tram to the Rudolfplatz station, from which it is a short walk to the market area. Visitors can use the coordinates 50.935173 and 6.953101 if driving a car, with parking facilities available nearby.
2. Market of Angels
The Market of Angels, also known as the Angels' Christmas Market, is located at Neumarkt near the city's popular neighborhoods and shopping streets. The market features designed houses with individually decorated and filled gables. It opens from Monday, November 20, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
To visit the Market of Angels, visitors can head to Neumarkt. Neumarkt is easily accessible and well-connected by public transportation. Visitors can take lines U1, U3, U4, U7, U9, U16 or U18 and stop at Neumarkt station. Trams also stop at Neumarkt, making it convenient to reach the market. There are also several bus lines that serve Neumarkt, allowing for easy access to the market. After arriving at Neumarkt, visitors will find the Market of Angels in the square, filled with countless glowing stars and fairy lights, with tastefully designed and decorated houses and a variety of culinary stands where visitors can indulge in delicious food and drinks. Visitors can even find Maximilian Lorenz, a young star chef from Cologne, showcasing his culinary skills.
The Market of Angels features numerous stalls selling unique gifts, crafts and Christmas decorations, making it a great place for holiday shopping. The famous Cologne Cathedral is located nearby and its architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction.
3. Cologne Harbour Christmas Market
The Cologne Harbour Christmas Market is a modern Christmas market located right on the Rhine, next to the Chocolate Museum in Cologne. It features 70 stalls in snow-white pagoda tents that resemble ships' sails. The market offers a variety of high-quality goods, handicrafts and culinary delights from the region and around the world. The highlight of the market is a large, real three-masted wooden ship where visitors can enjoy hot mulled wine. There is a Ferris wheel with an impressive height of 48 meters (157 feet), providing a breathtaking view of Cologne, the Cathedral, the Rhine and the harbor Christmas market.
The Cologne Harbour Christmas Market is open from Thursday, November 23, 2023, to Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 11:00 am to 09:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It offers a unique and festive atmosphere with its maritime theme and beautiful setting on the banks of the Rhine. Visitors can enjoy the entertainment program, which includes shanties and pirates and the “Lighthouse Spelunke”.
Visitors can explore the Chocolate Museum, which is located right next to the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of chocolate and provides the opportunity to indulge in delicious chocolate treats. The market is within walking distance, such as the Cologne Cathedral and the city center. Visitors can take a tram or bus to the “Heumarkt” stop, which is located near the market.
It is a short walk to the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market.
4. Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market
The Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market is a festive market located in the heart of Cologne's old town. It spreads over the Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares. It is known for its cozy atmosphere and focuses on the legend of Cologne's brownies and friendly household spirits called “Heinzelmännchen”.
The Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market opens on Saturday, November 25, 2023 and runs until Sunday, January 07, 2024, from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. The market pays tribute to the legend of the Heinzelmännchen, creating an atmosphere with elaborate decorations and displays featuring the whimsical house elves. The highlight is the spectacular ice rink on Heumarkt Square, where visitors can enjoy ice skating surrounded by the festive ambiance. Skilled craftsmen from all over Europe showcase their talents at the market, offering a variety of handmade products and gifts. It is also divided into various themed alleys, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration.
The famous Cologne Cathedral is located near the Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market. It is also in Cologne's Old Town, which is known for its architecture, historic buildings and narrow streets. The market is easily accessible by public transportation and visitors can take a tram or bus to the Heumarkt or Alter Markt stops, which are located near the market area. If preferring to drive, there are parking facilities available in the vicinity of the market. It is recommended that public transportation be used due to limited parking spaces in the city center.
5. New Year's Market
The New Year's Market is a Christmas market that celebrates the arrival of the New Year. It offers a wide range of food, drinks and seasonal items for visitors to enjoy. The New Year's Market opens on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 and continues until Sunday, January 07, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm from Monday to Sunday, except on Sunday, December 31, 2023, where it closes until 01:00 am, to meet the New Year. The New Year's Market is located next to the Chocolate Museum on the Rhine. It is in the maritime Cologne Harbour Christmas market area, which transforms into a cozy New Year's market after Christmas. The market offers a setting along the river, providing visitors with a beautiful backdrop as they explore the stalls and enjoy the festivities. The New Year's Market is filled with beautiful decorations, twinkling lights and lively music. Visitors can indulge in traditional German treats such as mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies and other seasonal specialties. It also features a varied entertainment program, including shanties and pirates, where visitors can enjoy live performances, music and cultural events that will keep them entertained throughout their visit.
Visitors can also explore nearby the New Year's Market in Cologne. The Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the city's most iconic landmarks is just a short distance away. Visitors can admire its Gothic architecture and visit its interior to appreciate its beauty. The market is also located next to the Chocolate Museum, where visitors can take the opportunity to learn about the history of chocolate, see the chocolate-making process and indulge in some delicious samples. Visitors can use various modes of transportation to get to the New Year's Market. Cologne has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams and trains. Visitors can use these services to reach the market. The nearest tram stop to the market is “Schokoladenmuseum”, and the nearest train station is “Köln-Deutz”, which is a short walk from the market area. Visitors can also easily reach the New Year's Market on foot if staying in the city center or nearby.
What food can visitors eat at the Cologne Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best German food options to try at Cologne Christmas Market:
- Grilled bratwurst: Grilled bratwurst is a type of German sausage that is made from pork, beef or veal. It is usually served in a bread roll with mustard, ketchup or curry sauce. Grilled bratwurst is a popular street food in Germany and can be found at Cologne Christmas markets. A grilled bratwurst costs 3 € ($3.40, £2.50) per piece.
- Waffles: Waffles are a sweet treat that is made from batter and cooked in a waffle iron. They are usually topped with powdered sugar, whipped cream, chocolate sauce or fruit. Waffles are a common dessert in Belgium and can also be enjoyed at the Cologne Christmas markets. The price for a waffle is 2.50 € ($2.85, £2.10) per piece.
- Raclette: Raclette is a type of cheese that is melted and scraped onto bread, potatoes or pickles. It is a traditional dish from Switzerland and France and is often eaten in winter. Raclette is a hearty and warming food that can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Harbour Christmas Market by the Chocolate Museum. A raclette costs 5 € ($5.70, £4.20) per portion.
- Roasted chestnuts: Roasted chestnuts are a classic Christmas snack that is cooked over an open fire. They have a nutty and sweet flavor and a soft texture. Roasted chestnuts are a nostalgic and festive food that can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Nicholas Village on Rudolfplatz. A roasted chestnut costs 3 € ($3.40, £2.50) per portion.
- Reibekuchen: Reibekuchen are delicious potato fritters that are fried until crispy and golden. They are usually served with applesauce but can also be eaten with sour cream, sugar or salt. Reibekuchen is a typical German dish and can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Cathedral Christmas Market. A Reibekuchen costs 3.50 € ($4, £2.90) per portion.
What to drink in Cologne Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best drinks in the Cologne Christmas Market:
- Berry wines: Berry wines are fruity and sweet wines that are made from different types of berries, such as blackberries, raspberries or blueberries. They are often served hot and spiced, similar to mulled wine. Berry wines are a festive and refreshing drink that can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Angel's Christmas Market on Neumarkt. A berry wine costs 3 € ($3.40, £2.50) per cup.
- Glühwein: Glühwein is a traditional German drink that is made from red wine, spices, sugar and sometimes citrus fruits. It is usually served hot in a ceramic mug, often with a shot of rum or brandy. Glühwein is a popular and warming drink that can be found at almost every Cologne Christmas market. The price for a Glühwein is 2.50 € ($2.85, £2.10) per cup, plus a deposit for the mug.
- Hot chocolate: Hot chocolate is a classic drink that is made from melted chocolate, milk and sometimes whipped cream. It is usually served hot in a paper cup, often with a marshmallow or a candy cane. Hot chocolate is a delicious and cozy drink that can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Fairytale Christmas Market on Rudolfplatz. The price for a hot chocolate is 2 € ($2.30, £1.70) per cup.
- Kölsch beer: Kölsch beer is a type of pale ale that is brewed in Cologne and the surrounding area. It is usually served cold in a small glass, called a stange and refilled by the waiter until the customer puts a coaster on top of the glass. Kölsch beer is a refreshing and light drink that can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market on Heumarkt. A Kölsch beer costs 1.80 € ($2.05, £1.50) per glass.
- Warm cider: Warm cider is an alcoholic drink made from fermented apple juice, spices and sometimes honey. It is usually served hot in a metal cup, often with a slice of lemon or orange. Warm cider is a tangy and soothing drink that can be found at the Cologne Christmas markets, especially at the Village of St. Nicholas on Alter Markt. A cup of warm cider costs 3 € ($3.40, £2.50).
What can people buy at the Cologne Christmas Market?
Listed below are the things people can buy in Cologne Christmas Market:
- Handmade items: Handmade items are a great way to find unique and original gifts for one’s loved ones. Visitors can browse stalls selling beautiful crafts such as decorative plates, ceramics, accessories, soaps and clothing. Handmade items can be found at most of the Cologne Christmas Market, but especially at the Alter Markt, where there are themed alleyways dedicated to different types of goods.
- Toys: Toys are a must-have for any child (or adult) who loves to play and have fun. Visitors can find a variety of toys at the Cologne Christmas Market, from traditional wooden carvings and puppets to modern gadgets and games.
- Antique: Antique lovers will be delighted by the Cologne Christmas Market, where they can find rare and valuable items from the past. Visitors can find antique jewelry, books, paintings and furniture. Antique can be found especially at the Stadtgarten Christmas Market, where there are stalls selling vintage and retro goods.
- Decorations: Decorations are a perfect way to add some festive cheer to one’s home or office. Visitors can find decorations of all shapes and sizes at the Cologne Christmas Market, from candles and lanterns to wreaths and garlands. Decorations can be found especially at the Angel Market, where stalls sell angel-themed ornaments, stars and lights.
- Handicrafts: Handicrafts are a wonderful way to appreciate the skill and creativity of local artisans. You can find handicrafts of all kinds at the Cologne Christmas Market, from pottery and leather to textiles and metalwork. Handicrafts can be found especially at the Harbour Christmas Market, where there are stalls selling nautical-themed crafts, such as ships, anchors and fish.
Where to stay in Berlin during the Cologne Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best hotels to stay in during the Cologne Christmas Market:
- Steigenberger Hotel Köln: Steigenberger Hotel Köln is a four-star hotel that offers spacious rooms with views, a restaurant with buffet breakfast and free WiFi access in all areas. It is located in Rudolfplatz Square, just 200 meters (0.1 miles) from Hahnentorburg Castle. The hotel is also close to the subway station, which can take visitors to Cologne Cathedral and Cologne Christmas markets in 10 minutes. A double room costs 100 € ($115, £83) per night.
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom: Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom is a five-star luxury hotel located right next to Cologne Cathedral, the city's largest and most popular Christmas market. The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1863 and features elegant rooms and suites, two Michelin-starred restaurants, a piano bar and a fitness and spa area. The hotel is also a Leading Hotels of the World group member. A double room costs 200 € ($230, £166) per night.
- City Apartments in Köln am Rheingarten: City Apartments in Köln am Rheingarten are modern and cozy apartments that are situated in the center of Cologne, not far from Wallraf-Richartz Museum and Museum Ludwig. The apartments have a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and a kitchenette with a fridge and a coffee machine. They also have a garden and a restaurant on site. The price for an apartment is 150 € ($172, £125) per night.
- Motel One Köln-Neumarkt: Motel One Köln-Neumarkt is a budget-friendly hotel that offers stylish and comfortable rooms with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. It is located at Neumarkt, one of Cologne's main squares and a public transportation hub. The hotel is also within walking distance from several Cologne Christmas markets, such as the one at Alter Markt and the one at Heumarkt. A double room costs 80 € ($92, £66) per night.
What are the best restaurants to eat in Cologne during Christmas?
Listed below are the best restaurants to eat in Cologne:
- Ramen Bar Takezo: Ramen Bar Takezo is an unassuming Japanese ramen noodle restaurant between Heumarkt station and the famous Chocolate Museum. It serves a good and hearty bowl of ramen at 10 € ($11.5, £8.5. The restaurant is 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) from the Cologne Christmas Market.
- Cafe Especial: Cafe Especial is a cozy and rustic restaurant that serves Mexican food and drinks. It offers a variety of dishes, such as nachos, quesadillas, spare ribs and salads. The restaurant also has a lively atmosphere and a friendly staff. The price for a main course is 15 € ($17.3, £12.7). The restaurant is located on Neuhöfferstrasse, near the Harbour Christmas Market.
- Café Schmitz: Café Schmitz is a popular cafe that offers a wide range of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. It has a pleasant ambiance and modern decor, with a large terrace and a bakery. The cafe serves delicious French toast, pancakes, salads, sandwiches and cakes. The price for a main course is 12 € ($13.8, £10.2). The cafe is located in Hansaring, near the Stadtgarten Christmas Market.
- Mashery Hummus Kitchen: Mashery Hummus Kitchen is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant that specializes in hummus dishes with various toppings. It also serves falafel, salads, soups and desserts. The restaurant has a creative and innovative menu with a mix of Middle Eastern and international flavors. The price for a main course is 10 € ($11.5, £8.5). The restaurant is located on Roonstrasse, near the Fairytale Christmas Market.
- Beirut Restaurant: Beirut Restaurant is a traditional Lebanese restaurant that serves authentic and tasty dishes, such as hummus, tabbouleh, shawarma, falafel and baklava. It also offers a variety of grilled meats, fish and vegetarian options. The restaurant has a cozy and warm atmosphere, with friendly service. The price for a main course is 15 € ($17.3, £12.7). The restaurant is located on Buttermarkt, near the Christmas Market in Cologne's Old Town.
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