Explore Cologne's Winter Magic: 3-Day Itinerary

Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is a great winter destination. The city is known for its laid-back vibe, vibrant local culture, and Kölsch beer. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Cologne during the winter months:

1. Christmas Markets: Cologne boasts several enchanting Christmas markets, including the popular market next to the Cologne Cathedral. The city transforms with festive decorations, and the markets offer handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, and traditional Christmas cheer.

2. Karneval Festivities: Cologne's winter carnival, also known as the fifth season of the year, is a week-long celebration starting on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday. The city comes alive with street parades, parties, and costumed revellers.

3. Cologne Cathedral: This Gothic Episcopal Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers sweeping views from its towers. Climbing the 509 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the panoramic sights of the city.

4. Indoor Attractions: For those who want to stay warm, Cologne has plenty of indoor options, including museums, galleries, and churches. The Schokoladenmuseum (chocolate museum) and the Farina House Perfume Museum are unique attractions not to be missed.

5. Affordable Accommodation: During the winter off-peak months, you can find great deals on central hotels, making your stay in Cologne more budget-friendly.

6. Magical Atmosphere: Cologne in winter is a magical experience, with festive lighting, Christmas decorations, and a warm, cosy ambiance.

7. Cologne's Culinary Scene: Indulge in Cologne's delicious food and beverage offerings, including local specialties like 'Himmel un Äd' and 'Halve Hahn'. Don't forget to try the Kölsch beer, a unique brew only found in Cologne!

8. Winter Activities: If you're looking for winter-specific activities, Cologne has you covered. Enjoy ice skating at the Christmas markets or warm up in the thermal baths and saunas at Claudius Therme.

9. Love Lock Bridge: For a romantic gesture, head to Hohenzollern Bridge, where couples attach padlocks to symbolise their love. It's a charming tradition that adds to the winter wonderland feel of the city.

10. Modern Architecture: While Cologne has its fair share of historic buildings, the city also surprises with its modern architecture. Explore spots like the Mediapark and the Rheinauhafen District to see the blend of old and new.

Visit the Christmas Markets

Cologne is a city that loves festivities and celebrations, especially during Christmas. The city has a variety of Christmas markets, as befits its status as the fourth-largest city in Germany. The Christmas markets in Cologne attract millions of visitors from all over the world every year.

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market

The biggest of all the city markets is held in the shadow of the symbol of the city, Cologne Cathedral. Located at Roncalliplatz, this iconic market remains open from 18 November to 23 December 2024. It is expected to attract over 4 million visitors to its 150 stands. You can find special crafts, culinary delights, and loads of festive spirit.

Heinzelmännchen Market in Cologne's Old Town

This market is located in the Alter Markt in Cologne's 'Altstadt' (Old Town). It calls itself the Home of the Heinzelmännchen, little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all the housework. It runs from 25 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. Immerse yourself in history, mythology, and vibrant cultural displays.

Angels' Christmas Market

The Angels' Market is stationed in the Neumarkt Square, a little outside the immediate city centre. It offers an ethereal vibe from 18 November to 23 December 2024. It is one of the original markets that restarted the Christmas market tradition in Cologne in the 1970s.

Harbour Christmas Market

The Harbour Christmas Market is a relatively new market on the banks of the Rhine in the grounds of the Chocolate Museum. From 15 November to 23 December, this market offers a unique harbour view, along with the scent of scrumptious sweets and delicacies.

Nicholas Village

This Christmas market is located in Rudolfplatz Square, with good public transport connections. It is open from 18 November to 23 December.

What to Eat and Drink at the Christmas Markets

As you stroll through the bustling market stalls, you will find exquisite, handcrafted items, a German specialty. From wooden crafts to artisanal creations, skilled craftsmen will tell you the story behind each piece. You can also warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) and try some roasted chestnuts, baked apples, and cinnamon biscuits.

Explore the Old Town

Cologne's Old Town (Altstadt) is a charming neighbourhood filled with historic landmarks, colourful spots, and vibrant markets that will brighten up any winter day. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

• Admire the Cologne Cathedral: The Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is an impressive Gothic structure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a tour of the cathedral to appreciate its artistic masterpieces, chapels, and iconic stained glass windows. If you're feeling adventurous, climb the 509 steps to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the city.
• Stroll along the Rhine River: The Rhine River is an integral part of Cologne, offering a different perspective of the city. Take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, especially during sunset, to capture breathtaking cityscapes with the lights of the town reflecting off the water.
• Explore the Christmas Markets: Cologne truly comes alive during the Christmas season, with its numerous festive markets. The main market is located next to the cathedral, but you can also find smaller, themed markets throughout the Old Town. Indulge in delicious treats like mulled wine and waffles while browsing handcrafted gifts and traditional decorations.
• Visit the Fish Market (Fischmarkt): This picturesque square on the banks of the Rhine is known for its colourful old houses. During the winter, you can still enjoy a warm cup of coffee in one of the cafes or capture memorable photos.
• Discover Hidden Gems: Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town and discover hidden gems like the Love Lock Bridge (Hohenzollern Bridge), where couples attach padlocks as a symbol of their everlasting love. You can also find unique boutiques and vintage shops in the Belgian Quarter for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
• Sample Local Cuisine: Cologne's culinary scene offers plenty of delights to warm you up during the winter. Try local specialties like 'Himmel un Äd' (black pudding with potato and applesauce) and 'Kölscher Kaviar' (blood sausage with mustard on rye bread). Don't forget to wash it down with a glass of Kölsch beer, the city's signature brew!

Take a boat trip along the Rhine

Taking a boat trip along the Rhine is a great way to see Cologne from a different perspective. The river has been an integral part of the city for centuries, snaking through its centre, so sailing along it is a great way to see the city's sights from the water.

There are many boat tours to choose from, with options for romantic evening cruises, panoramic cruises, musical tours, and event tours. You can also take a round trip to the Crane Houses, past the Chocolate Museum, or a day trip to small neighbouring towns down to the picturesque Siebengebirge hills.

The largest operator of day cruises and pleasure boats on the Rhine is Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD), which offers many round-trip panorama cruises in Cologne. Tickets are priced between €10 and €20, depending on the package and company. The cruises usually last around an hour, but longer cruises are available, including coffee breaks, dancing, lunch, and dinner cruises.

If you're looking for a unique experience, you can also take a winter cruise on the Rhine during the Christmas market Advent season, with special party cruises to greet the New Year. These cruises are a popular way to see the city's festive side and are a great alternative to exploring the city on foot.

Visit Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the city, and winter is the perfect time to experience its Gothic grandeur. Here is a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit:

History and Architecture

Cologne Cathedral, officially known as Hohe Domkirche Sankt Petrus, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a renowned monument of German Catholicism. Construction began in 1248, but it wasn't until 1880 that the cathedral was completed according to its original medieval plan. The cathedral boasts the tallest twin spires in the world and is the second-tallest church in Europe. With its impressive size and intricate design, it's no wonder that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

What to See and Do

• Explore the Interior: Step inside to admire the numerous chapels, artistic masterpieces, tombs, and iconic stained glass windows. The interior is especially atmospheric on cold winter evenings, with candlelit shadows dancing across the gray stone.
• Climb the South Tower: For a small fee, you can climb 533 steps to the viewing platform, located about 100 meters above the ground. From there, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Cologne, especially on foggy winter days when the towers disappear into the clouds.
• Cathedral Treasury: For an additional fee, you can visit the Medieval sacristan crypt and explore the Cathedral Treasury. Here, you'll discover a plethora of church treasures dating back to the 4th century.
• Guided Tours: Enhance your experience by joining a guided tour of the cathedral. These tours are offered daily and provide deeper insights into the history and significance of this magnificent structure.
• Admire the Exterior: Don't forget to walk around the cathedral to admire its exterior architecture. The intricate details of the flying buttresses and pinnacles of the Medieval east end will leave you in awe.
• Stained Glass Windows: The cathedral features stunning stained glass windows, including modern creations like the one designed by German artist Gerhard Richter in 2007.
• Shrine of the Three Kings: One of the most celebrated works of art within the cathedral is the Shrine of the Three Kings, created in the 12th century. This large reliquary in the shape of a basilican church is made of bronze and silver, adorned with gilding, architectural details, figurative sculptures, enamels, and gemstones.
• Gero Crucifix: Another highlight is the Gero Crucifix, a large oak crucifix from the 10th century. It is the oldest large crucifix north of the Alps and the earliest known free-standing Northern sculpture from the medieval period.
• Christmas Markets: If you visit during the festive season, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the Cathedral Market, one of Cologne's seven Christmas markets. Indulge in a mug of hot Glühwein (mulled wine) and soak in the festive cheer.
• Candlelit Evenings: On cold winter evenings, the interior of the cathedral is often illuminated by candlelight, creating an eerie and enchanting ambiance. It is the perfect setting to snuggle up with a loved one or simply appreciate the beauty of the space.

Whether you're marvelling at its architectural grandeur, climbing its towers for panoramic views, or soaking in the peaceful atmosphere within, a visit to Cologne Cathedral is sure to be a memorable part of your winter trip to Cologne.

Enjoy the Karneval festivities

Cologne is known for its Karneval, a celebration that takes place before Lent. The Carnival is also referred to as the "fifth season" and is a time of merrymaking and festivities. Here are some ways to enjoy the Karneval:

Know the Dates

The Carnival season officially begins on November 11 at 11:11 am, but the main festivities occur in the week before Lent. This week, known as the "Crazy Days" or "Street Carnival", includes Fat Thursday (Weiberfastnacht) and ends on Ash Wednesday. The highlight of the Carnival is Rose Monday (Rosenmontag), two days before Ash Wednesday, when a large parade takes place. The exact dates change each year, depending on when Easter falls.

Participate in the Traditions

During Karneval, people in Cologne go out masqueraded, and the typical greeting during the festival is "Kölle Alaaf!". The Carnival prince, also known as "Seine Tollität" (His Madness), is the most important figure of the festivities and leads the main parades. Another tradition is the Nubbelverbrennung or the burning of the Nubbel, a straw figure representing the sins of the Karneval season, which takes place on the evening before Ash Wednesday.

Join the Parades and Parties

Throughout the Carnival week, parades take place all over the city, and there are parties in the streets and public squares. The Rose Monday Parade is the centerpiece of the Carnival, with over 10,000 participants in elaborate costumes, marching bands, and beautifully designed floats. The Carnival is also a time for street parties, with rogue bands performing on every corner and people dancing and socialising. The pubs and bars in the city also join the festivities, with extended opening hours.

Indulge in Food and Drinks

Kölsch beer is a must-try during Karneval. It is a light beer served in a small cylinder-shaped glass, and it is traditionally the only beer served in Cologne during this time. In addition to beer, there are also sweet treats to enjoy, such as bonbons and freshly made hot chocolate.

Wear a Costume

Costumes are an essential part of the Karneval. The motto, "Every fool is different," celebrates individuality, and people express themselves through creative and humorous outfits. From clowns to historical figures to clever group themes, anything goes. It is recommended to dress up in colourful and bright costumes to fully embrace the spirit of the Carnival.

Frequently asked questions