Cologne's December Events: A Festive Guide To The City

December in Cologne is a magical time, with plenty of events and activities to enjoy. Here's a rundown of what's on in the city this December:

- Christmas Markets: Cologne is famous for its Christmas markets, and in December, they come alive with festive lights, decorations, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The Cologne Carnival Christmas Market is a unique and lively event, featuring a mix of traditional Christmas market stalls and the colourful spirit of the city's famous carnival.

- Guided tours: Take a guided tour of the Cologne Cathedral at night to appreciate its Gothic splendour. The cathedral's interior is adorned with festive decorations and a majestic Christmas tree.

- Horse-drawn carriage rides: Snuggle up under a cosy blanket and take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

- Chocolate Museum: Indulge your sweet tooth at the famous Chocolate Museum, which offers holiday-themed exhibits and workshops where you can learn about the history of chocolate and create your own treats.

- New Year's Eve celebrations: Ring in the New Year at one of the many New Year's Eve parties around the city.

- Ice skating: Glide over the ice at the Heumarkt rink, with the city's lights providing a magical backdrop.

- Rhine River cruise: Take a scenic boat tour on the Rhine River to see Cologne from a different perspective and enjoy the festive lights reflecting off the water.

- St. Martin's Day parade: Experience the vibrant St. Martin's Day parade, a traditional celebration in Cologne.

- Museum visits: Explore museums such as the Museum Ludwig, which houses a significant collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein. Or discover the Romano-Germanic Museum, which showcases Roman artefacts and a stunningly preserved third-century mosaic floor.

Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece and a must-see when visiting the city. Its Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows are awe-inspiring, and the sheer size of the cathedral is impressive. The Cologne Cathedral is located right outside the main train station, making it easily accessible for visitors. The cathedral is free to enter, but it can get quite crowded during peak hours (around midday).

In December, the Cologne Cathedral is even more stunning as it is illuminated against the night sky. Taking a guided tour of the cathedral at night allows you to appreciate its Gothic splendour and learn about its history. The interior is adorned with festive decorations and a majestic Christmas tree, creating a magical atmosphere. The tower of the cathedral offers a unique view of the city, with a spiral staircase and metal staircase leading up to the viewing platform.

The cathedral is generally open daily from 6 am to 8 pm, with Masses held at various times throughout the day. However, there may be changes to the opening hours due to Masses taking priority. It is recommended to check the up-to-date Mass times before your visit.

When visiting the Cologne Cathedral, there are some rules and regulations to keep in mind. Only small bags and rucksacks up to a certain size are allowed inside. Identity checks may be conducted by cathedral staff upon entry. Visitors are expected to dress appropriately, refrain from loud talking or running, and keep their belongings with them at all times.

Overall, the Cologne Cathedral is a must-see destination when visiting Cologne, especially during the holiday season, as it offers a blend of architectural grandeur, historical significance, and a festive atmosphere.

Christmas Markets

Cologne's Christmas Markets are a magical experience, with each market offering its own unique atmosphere and attractions. Here's a guide to some of the best Christmas Markets in the city:

Cologne Cathedral Market

The Cologne Cathedral Market is a spectacular sight, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral. This market features a stunning starlit sky design, with stalls offering a variety of handicrafts, ornaments, and delicious food and drinks. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the festive cheer and admire the beauty of the cathedral all lit up for the season.

Old Town Market – ‘Heimat der Heinzel’

Nestled in the charming Old Town, this market takes its theme from local folklore. It's a whimsical wonderland filled with fairy-tale creatures, bringing joy and mischief to visitors of all ages. It's an ideal spot for families and anyone who loves a touch of magic during the holiday season.

Neumarkt Market – ‘Market of Angels’

The Neumarkt Market, also known as the 'Market of Angels', is an elegant and graceful Christmas Market. Adorned with twinkling stars and angelic figures, it creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere. It's the perfect place to stroll, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy the festive ambiance.

Heinzel's Wintermärchen

Heinzel's Wintermärchen is a festive and romantically decorated market, featuring an ice skating rink for added fun. It's a great place to enjoy the holiday spirit, with live music and other Christmas events taking place throughout the season.

Stadtgarten Christmas Market

The Stadtgarten Christmas Market offers a more modern twist on the traditional Christmas Market. Here, you'll find a variety of local and sustainable labels showcasing their unique products. It's a great place to discover up-and-coming designers and support local businesses while enjoying the festive cheer.

Boat Tour on the Rhine River

The Rhine River is a working thoroughfare that gave Cologne its lifeblood. A boat tour on the Rhine River is a great way to see Cologne from a unique perspective and enjoy the city's magical atmosphere during the holiday season. Many boat tours also offer mulled wine and seasonal snacks, adding to the festive experience.

Boat Tour Options

There are various boat tour options available, ranging from romantic evening cruises to panoramic cruises with informative commentary. You can also choose between a 1-hour or 2-hour cruise, depending on your preference. The 2-hour evening cruise is a popular option, as it allows you to see Cologne's sights illuminated against the night sky.

What to See on the Boat Tour

On the boat tour, you will glide along the legendary Rhine, taking in panoramic views of the beautiful riverbanks and park areas. You will also get to see top Cologne attractions such as the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge, and the medieval Old Town. As you cruise along, you can listen to fascinating facts about Cologne's 2,000-year history and enjoy a drink from the onboard bar, including the local beer, Koelsch.

Booking Your Boat Tour

Boat tours on the Rhine River can be booked online or through local tour operators. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred departure time and date. Some boat tours may also offer hotel pickup and drop-off services.

Other Things to Do in Cologne in December

In addition to the boat tour, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to enjoy in Cologne during December. Here are some recommendations:

• Take a guided tour of the Cologne Cathedral at night
• Attend the Cologne Carnival Christmas Market
• Indulge in traditional German holiday treats at a local bakery
• Visit the Chocolate Museum
• Explore the Old Town
• Stroll through the Flora and Botanical Garden

Museum Ludwig

• Art Collection: Museum Ludwig is renowned for its impressive art collection, featuring pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries. The museum showcases a wide range of artistic styles, including American Pop Art, key works from the Russian avant-garde, and German Expressionism. Photography enthusiasts will also appreciate the Photo Room, which exhibits photography from its early days to the present.
• Special Exhibitions: In addition to the permanent collection, Museum Ludwig hosts new special exhibitions every few months. These exhibitions highlight different artists and themes, providing a diverse and engaging experience for visitors.
• Open Building Design: The museum's open building design allows visitors to explore at their own pace without dictating any specific routes. This flexibility gives you the freedom to focus on your areas of interest, whether it's admiring specific artworks or taking a chronological journey through the international art world.
• Café and Terrace: After exploring the museum, you can relax and reflect in the adjoining café, which features high ceilings and a tranquil atmosphere. During the summer months, the terrace offers outdoor seating with a stunning view of the Hohenzollern Bridge.
• Long Thursday: On the first Thursday of every month, Museum Ludwig participates in "Long Thursday," offering free admission to Cologne residents and discounted tickets for special exhibitions. This event often includes music and creates a vibrant atmosphere for conversations and cultural exchange.
• Pop Art and Picasso Collections: Museum Ludwig is home to the largest Pop Art collection in Europe and the third-largest Picasso collection in the world. These extensive collections showcase works from all of Picasso's creative periods, making it a dream come true for art enthusiasts and Picasso fans alike.
• Special Projects and Exhibitions: The museum frequently showcases special projects and exhibitions, such as "Schultze Projects #4: Kresiah Mukwazhi," which featured a new work by Zimbabwean artist Kresiah Mukwazhi. The museum also presented "Fluxus and Beyond: Ursula Burghardt, Benjamin Patterson," revisiting the influential art movement of the 1960s known as Fluxus.

Ice Skating at Heumarkt

The rink is open daily from 11 am to 9:30 pm, and from 26 December, it will be open from 11 am to 8:30 pm. Tickets can be booked online, with prices for adults and children aged 5-12 years (children under 5 go free). Every Monday, there is a special programme for children, with an ice-skating school and discounted entry fees.

The Heumarkt ice rink offers a unique and extraordinary experience, with spectacular ice dances, live music, jugglers, and artists. In addition to ice skating, visitors can also try their hand at ice stock sport, a popular activity at the Christmas market.

The Heumarkt square itself is a delightful blend of modern amenities and traditional architecture, with a range of cafes and restaurants nearby. It is easily accessible by public transport, with the Rathaus & Heumarkt lines U1, 5, 7, 9, and bus lines 106, 132, and 133.

Frequently asked questions