Explore Cologne, Germany In December: A Festive Adventure

Cologne, Germany, transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with its Christmas markets, cultural events, and festive attractions. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city:

Explore the Christmas Markets:

Cologne boasts a variety of Christmas markets, each with its unique theme and atmosphere. The Cologne Cathedral Market, set against the backdrop of the majestic cathedral, offers handicrafts and gastronomic delights. The Old Town Market, nestled in the quaint old town, is themed around local folklore and fairy-tale creatures. Meanwhile, the Neumarkt Market, adorned with stars and angelic figures, exudes elegance and grace.

Immerse Yourself in Cultural Traditions:

Cologne comes alive with cultural celebrations during this festive season. Experience the vibrant St. Martin's Day parade and join in the jubilant New Year's Eve festivities. Don't miss the traditional German holiday treats, including stollen (fruitcake), lebkuchen (spiced gingerbread), and marzipan sweets.

Discover Cologne's Historical Gems:

Beyond the markets, Cologne is rich in history and culture. The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an awe-inspiring example of High Gothic architecture. The Museum Ludwig, located near the cathedral, is a haven for modern art lovers, featuring an extensive collection of 20th and 21st-century artworks. The Romano-Germanic Museum, built on the site of a Roman town villa, showcases Roman artifacts and offers a glimpse into the city's ancient roots.

Indulge in Local Delights:

Warm up with traditional German fare like 'Reibekuchen' (potato pancakes) and 'Glühwein' (mulled wine). For a unique experience, visit the Chocolate Museum, which offers holiday-themed exhibits and workshops where you can learn about the history of chocolate and create your own treats.

Enjoy Winter Activities:

Glide over the ice at the Heumarkt rink, with the city's lights providing a magical backdrop. Take a scenic boat tour on the Rhine River to admire Cologne's winter landscape from a different perspective.

Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, festive cheer, or a blend of both, Cologne in December has something for everyone!

Explore Cologne's 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 city's main market is located in front of the Cologne Cathedral, but there are several others scattered throughout the city. Each market offers unique gifts, crafts, and delicious holiday treats, making it a must-visit experience in December. Here are some of the top Christmas markets to explore:

• Cologne Cathedral Market: Set against the majestic backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral, this market dazzles with its spectacular starlit sky design. It offers a festive treat with stalls brimming with handicrafts, ornaments, and gastronomic delights.
• Old Town Market - 'Heimat der Heinzel': Nestled in the quaint Old Town, this market takes its theme from local folklore. It's a wonderland where fairy-tale creatures bring joy and mischief, perfect for families and those who cherish whimsy.
• Neumarkt Market - 'Market of Angels': Radiating elegance and grace, this market is adorned with twinkling stars and angelic figures, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
• Rudolfplatz: A village for St. Nicholas with plenty of activities for kids.
• Gay and Lesbian Christmas Avenue Market: A lively market just around the corner from Rudolfplatz, offering a unique and dynamic experience.
• Chocolate Museum Market: Located by the Rhine, this market is a cute place to sip Glühwein (mulled wine) and enjoy Lebkuchen (gingerbread).

In addition to these markets, Cologne offers a range of festive activities such as ice skating at Heumarkt, horse-drawn carriage rides through the city, and boat tours on the Rhine River. So, bundle up, grab a mug of hot Glühwein, and explore the magical Christmas markets of Cologne!

Visit the Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece and a must-see when visiting the city. Here's a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit:

History and Architecture

The Cologne Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, is a medieval Gothic cathedral that took over six centuries to complete. Construction began in 1248 and was finally finished in 1880. The cathedral's facade is breathtaking, with intricate carvings and a massive structure that leave visitors in awe. Standing at 157 meters tall, it's one of the tallest cathedrals in the world and a true symbol of the city's medieval craftsmanship and profound religious heritage.

Interior and Artifacts

Stepping inside the Cologne Cathedral, you'll be greeted by exquisite Gothic architecture and intricate details. The interior showcases the intricate stained glass windows, impressive altar, and intricate carvings that adorn the walls. One of the cathedral's most famous artifacts is the Shrine of the Three Kings, which has been housed there since 1164. The shrine is a triple sarcophagus decorated with 12th-century reliefs depicting episodes from the life of Christ, prophets, and apostles, all crafted by Nicholas of Verdun.

Stained Glass and Windows

The Cologne Cathedral boasts magnificent stained glass windows from the 1500s. These windows are true works of art, with vibrant colors and intricate designs that tell biblical stories and flood the interior with a warm, ethereal light.

Gero-Kreuz Crucifix

Another remarkable artifact within the cathedral is the 10th-century Gero-Kreuz crucifix. This ancient crucifix is a testament to the cathedral's rich history and religious significance.

High Altar

The black marble high altar, dating back to the 1300s, is a masterpiece in itself. Carved with niches, it features images from the Coronation of the Virgin, adding to the cathedral's spiritual ambiance.

Tower Climb

For those seeking a panoramic view of Cologne, climbing the cathedral's towers is a must. With 533 steps leading to the platform, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the city. However, it's important to note that the climb can be challenging, and the platform is still about 60 meters below the tower's top.

Nighttime Guided Tour

To fully appreciate the cathedral's splendor, consider taking a guided tour at night. The interior is adorned with festive decorations, including a majestic Christmas tree, creating a magical atmosphere. The nighttime illumination enhances the Gothic splendor, making it even more captivating.

Surroundings

The cathedral is surrounded by other notable attractions, such as the Museum Ludwig, which showcases modern and contemporary art, including an extensive collection of Picasso's works. The Romano-Germanic Museum, located near the cathedral, displays Roman artifacts and a stunning third-century mosaic floor from a Roman town villa.

Take a Rhine River Cruise

Taking a Rhine River Cruise is one of the best ways to explore Cologne and its magnificent sights. The cruise usually lasts for about an hour, but you can also opt for a longer 2-hour evening cruise to see the city's attractions illuminated against the night sky. The cruise offers panoramic views of the city's beautiful riverbanks and park areas. As you sail along the river, you will get to see some of the city's top attractions, such as the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge, the medieval Old Town, and the Chocolate Museum. The cruise also includes informative audio commentary in multiple languages, providing insights into the city's rich history.

The Rhine River Cruise is a great option for travellers with limited time as it allows them to cover multiple top attractions in a short duration. The cruise offers excellent photo opportunities, with unobstructed views of the city's landmarks. Additionally, there is an onboard bar where you can purchase drinks, including the local beer of Koelsch.

The cruise usually starts from the banks of the Rhine River in central Cologne, with multiple departure points near the Cologne Cathedral and the Hohenzollern Bridge. The boats are modern and comfortable, with a sun deck and a cabin. The cruise is a relaxing way to explore the city and is suitable for all ages. It is also easily accessible, with hotel pick-up and drop-off services available.

The Rhine River Cruise is a popular activity in Cologne, offering a unique perspective of the city and its attractions. It is a great way to unwind and adjust to the local time zone, especially if you have just arrived in the city. The cruise provides a balance of informative commentary and enjoyable sights, making it a perfect activity for those seeking a blend of history and leisure.

Check out the Fragrance Museum

If you're visiting Cologne, Germany, in December, one attraction you might want to check out is the Fragrance Museum (Farina House). Here, you can learn about the history of perfume and fragrance, dating back to the 18th century.

The museum is located in the oldest intact perfume factory in the world, which once belonged to the Italian-born perfumer Johann Maria Farina. During a visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore the factory where Eau de Cologne was first invented. Guided tours are offered in various languages and last about 45 minutes. It is important to note that the museum can only be visited as part of a guided tour, so be sure to book your tickets in advance.

As you step into the Fragrance Museum, you will be transported back in time to the Rococo era. You will discover the fascinating history of perfume through exhibits such as flacons (decorative bottles), paintings, and art objects. Learn about the different perfume essences and how they are produced, including the enfleurage process.

One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to explore the original cellar vaults where the scents were produced almost 300 years ago. Here, you will find a cedar wood barrel that has survived from the early days of the company. You will also see a replica of the type of distillery that Giovanni Maria Farina used in the 18th century, giving you a glimpse into the art of distillation.

In addition to the historical exhibits, the museum also offers an interactive experience. In the "Fragrance Chamber," you can step into the world of a perfumer and indulge in the scents of diverse essences. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper understanding of the creativity and skill involved in perfume-making.

So, if you're looking for a unique and fragrant experience in Cologne, Germany, during the month of December, be sure to add the Fragrance Museum to your itinerary. It promises to be an informative and captivating journey through the history of perfume.

Sample traditional German holiday treats

Oma's Apfelkuchen (Grandma's Apple Cake)

This apple cake has been passed down in a German family for over 150 years. Granny Smith apples are recommended, but any variety works.

Lebkuchen

A culinary Christmas custom, this is a lovely, delicately spiced molasses-ginger cookie.

Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake)

Although it may look daunting, this cake is well worth the effort. It features a buttery crust, a custard filling, and a caramelized almond topping.

Linzer Cookies

These specialty cookies take a little extra effort, but the results are sweet and make the holidays feel special.

Glühwein (Mulled Wine)

A spiced, not-too-sweet mulled wine gently infused with nutmeg, vanilla, star anise, honey, and maple syrup.

German Potato Pancakes

A staple snack at German Christmas markets, these potato pancakes are delightfully crispy and can be served with sour cream or applesauce.

Stollen

A Christmas tradition in Germany, stollen is a fruit-filled yeast bread topped with icing, candied fruit, and almonds.

Pfeffernuesse Cookies

A German holiday tradition, these fragrant cookies pack a warm rush of spices in every bite. Also called peppernuts, they go well with coffee or tea.

Haselnussmakronen (Raspberry-Hazelnut Macaroons)

These no-fuss macaroon thumbprints are a great addition to your tray of German Christmas cookies. With just five ingredients, they come together in a snap.

Frequently asked questions