Exploring Cologne's Abundance Of Christmas Markets

If you're looking for Christmas markets, Cologne is the place to be. The German city has a dazzling array of Christmas markets, with six main markets and a handful of hidden gems dotted around the city.

The markets open around mid-to-late November and close on 23 December. Each has its own unique theme, from gnomes to angels and mariners, and they're all easily accessible on foot or via a mini Christmas train.

The most famous is the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, with over 150 stalls in the shadow of the iconic cathedral. But, for those in the know, the best markets are the Haus Elves' Winter Fairytale Christmas Market, with its enchanting ice rink, and the romantic Angels' Christmas Market, with its beautiful stars suspended from the trees.

So, grab a glühwein and a waffle and get exploring!

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market

The market offers a wide range of food, drinks, and shopping options. Food stands surround a stage where performers sing carols and covers of holiday hits. Visitors can enjoy hot-off-the-griddle waffles, cheesy spaetzle with sautéed onions, potato pancakes with applesauce, churros with chocolate sauce, and more. For drinks, gluhwein (hot mulled wine) is a must-try, and visitors can also find hot mulled beer and non-alcoholic options. The market is also a great place to shop for handcrafted items, with many artisan stands selling wooden crafts, ceramics, and hand-painted glass ornaments.

The market is a great place to start your Cologne Christmas market itinerary, as it is less crowded in the morning and is located close to some hotels. It is also within walking distance of other popular markets, such as Alter Market, Angel Christmas Market, and Village of Saint Nicholas.

The House Elves' Winter Fairytale Christmas Market

The House Elves Winter Fairytale Christmas Market

This market is split into various themed "alleys", with two sections: Alter Markt, which has more artisans and an adorable Ferris wheel, and Heumarkt, with extra fun stuff like an ice-skating rink, a carousel, and delicious food.

The market is located in Cologne's Old Town, about 200 meters from the cathedral, and runs from 25 November to 23 December 2024. The ice-skating rink section stays open until 5 January. It's open from 11 am to 10 pm, and from 26 December, it will be open from 11 am to 9 pm.

The House Elves' Winter Fairytale is one of the most elaborate and enchanting Christmas markets in Cologne, with its rich decorations, enchanting atmosphere, and unique theme. It's the perfect place to spend a magical day and indulge in all the festive delights it has to offer!

The Angel's Christmas Market

The Angels' Christmas Market, or Markt der Engel, is the oldest Christmas market in Cologne. It is located in the city's Neumarkt Square, with beautiful stars suspended above in the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. The market is known for its romantic and ethereal vibes, with performers dressed as angels, including some on stilts!

The stall decor at the Angel Market is beautifully rustic and minimalist, with wooden chalets painted white and simple overhead decorations made of natural materials like twigs. Even the backs of these chalets are beautifully decorated.

If you're feeling hungry, head to the Reibekuchen stall near the main entrance for crispy potato pancakes, served plain or with apple sauce. For those with a sweet tooth, you can also buy waffles shaped like the Cologne Cathedral.

The Angel Market is also a great place to shop for unique, handcrafted ornaments and local food products. You'll find a wide range of goods, from hand-carved wooden ornaments to souvenirs emblazoned with "Cologne".

The Angel Christmas Market is usually open daily from Sunday to Thursday, 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday to Saturday, 11 am to 10 pm. The mulled wine stands stay open an extra hour on the weekends.

Nicholas' Village Christmas Market

The Nicholas Village Christmas Market, also known as the Village of Saint Nicholas or Nikolausdorf, is located in Rudolfplatz Square, in front of the historic Hahnen City Gate. The market is easily accessible, with good public transport connections.

The market is designed to resemble a small village, with half-timbered houses and a chapel. It is beautifully decorated, with projections displayed on the centuries-old Hahnentorburg. The market has a relaxed atmosphere and offers a range of entertainment suitable for all ages.

Every day, between 4 pm and 4:30 pm, children can meet Santa Claus on stage, who will also walk through the village's alleyways in the evening, spreading holiday cheer. The Nikolaushaus provides a space for children to engage in arts and crafts, painting, and cutting, with different craft activities each day. Daycare groups and primary school classes can also participate in an art program lasting several hours.

The market offers a variety of hot drinks, including mulled wine, and tasty treats. Visitors can wander through the booths, browsing artisan crafts and sausages being cooked over an open fire. The booths are distinctly German, with a charming chalet theme, and visitors can shop for toys, Christmas ornaments, and other gifts.

The Nicholas Village Christmas Market is usually open daily from Sunday to Thursday, from 11 am to 9 pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays, from 11 am to 10 pm.

Stadtgarten Christmas Market

The Stadtgarten Christmas Market is located in the Stadtgarten, one of the parks on the edge of Cologne city centre. The market is held in the beer garden of the main restaurant in the park. It exudes charm and attracts both locals and visitors alike. The market has a romantic, village-like feel, nestled in the hip Belgian Quarter.

The market is all about "lifestyle with feeling, modern creations, traditional crafts and nostalgic bits and bobs". Over 80 exhibitors sell a range of unusual wares, from design elegance to traditional Christmas goods and hand-crafted individual pieces. Atmospheric stalls and strings of lights above give the feeling of being in a Christmas village in the middle of the city. The stalls and exhibitors change weekly, and there are plenty of treats on offer, including organic mulled wine, stews, tarte flambée, crêpes, almonds, raclette, and waffles, all homemade with fresh ingredients.

The Christmas stage is another highlight, featuring puppet shows, children’s theatre, fire-eaters, storytellers, and jazz concerts. The market is open daily from 4 pm to 9:30 pm, except on Saturdays and Sundays, when it opens at 12 pm.

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