Cologne's Christmas Markets: Dates And Delights

The Christmas markets in Cologne, Germany, usually run from early November to early January, with some transforming into New Year markets after Christmas. The city hosts a holiday extravaganza with a variety of markets, including the popular market in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral, as well as markets in the Old Town, the Stadtgarten, and the Harbour. The opening times vary per market, but generally, they are open during the day and early evening, with some remaining open later into the night.

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market

The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is the largest and busiest market in the city, attracting about 4 million visitors annually. It is held in the shadow of the iconic Cologne Cathedral, one of the most imposing structures in Germany, and is conveniently located next to the central station. The market features a giant 25-metre real Christmas tree, a stage for Christmas-themed live music shows, and fairy lights designed to create a canopy-like roof. Rows of intricately decorated red-roofed wooden stalls offer a romantic feel, traditional nativity scenes, and a wide range of unique Christmas gifts, including colourful glass ornaments, intricate wood carvings, quirky soaps and candles, and fashion accessories.

The food and drink stalls are a big highlight, with German classics like bratwurst, potato pancakes, gingerbread hearts, strudel, and bread and dips. You can also find wintry treats such as fresh mini doughnut balls, roasted sugared almonds, and hot roasted chestnuts, along with alcoholic hot chocolates and mulled wine (glühwein). The gluhwein is sometimes served with a rum-filled sugar block set on fire for a unique presentation.

The market is open from 18 November to 23 December 2024, with different timings on different days of the week. It is easily accessible by public transport, with Cologne's main train station nearby.

The House Elves' Winter Fairytale Christmas Market

The House Elves Winter Fairytale Christmas Market

25th November to 5th January, Daily from 11 am

The House Elves Winter Fairytale Christmas Market is a tribute to the city's famous legend of the Heinzelmännchen, whimsical house elves who are said to help the people of Cologne with their housework as they sleep. This enchanting wonderland is one of the most elaborate Christmas markets, with intricate details and displays that bring the legend to life.

The market is located in Cologne's Old Town, a 12-15 minute walk from the iconic cathedral, on Heumarkt Square, extending down to Alter Markt Square. The Old Town has a unique charm, with its colourful buildings, narrow cobbled lanes, and eye-catching Romanesque churches.

As you enter the market, you will be greeted by elaborately decorated gates, with over 100 gorgeous wooden-framed stalls and countless cheery elf figurines. The market is divided into 10 differently-themed lanes and piazzas, each with its own unique charm. One of the highlights of the market is the central skating rink, where you can soak in the magical atmosphere while showing off your skating skills. For those who prefer to stay on solid ground, there is also an ice stock or curling rink available.

The foodies among the elves ensure that there is something for everyone at the market. You can indulge in grilled meats and fish, baked bread with various toppings, freshly baked waffles, and crepes. Don't forget to wash it all down with a warm cup of glühwein, served in adorable bauble-shaped mugs.

The House Elves Winter Fairytale Christmas Market is a must-visit, especially if you are travelling with children. It offers a perfect mix of activities and crafts that will keep everyone entertained. Don't miss the opportunity to meet the cheerful elves and experience the magic of Cologne's festive season.

Practical Information:

• Dates: 25th November 2024 to 5th January 2025
• Times: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm (from 26th December: 11 am to 9 pm)
• Closed on: 24th and 25th November, 24th and 25th December
• Location: Heumarkt and Alter Markt Squares in Cologne's Old Town
• Transport: Easily accessible from Cologne's main train station or from the Heumarkt and Rathaus stations.

The Angels' Christmas Market

The market is dedicated to angels, with ladies dressed as angels and winter queens (on special days) sprinkling Christmas glitter and reciting Christmas texts to children. The magical atmosphere is enhanced by over 70 snow-white and grey alpine-style chalets, adorned with sparkling lights and stars, as well as countless natural Christmas trees, cute nativity scenes, and twinkling paper stars floating above the market and trees.

A small, traditional merry-go-round is a real treat for children, while the stalls offer unique gifts and ornaments, as well as delicious food and drink. A particular highlight is the Reibekuchen stall, which serves crispy potato pancakes, plain or with apple sauce. You can also buy waffles shaped like the Cologne Cathedral.

Nicholas' Village Christmas Market

The Nicholas Village Christmas Market (Nikolausdorf) is located in the Rudolfplatz square in the centre of Cologne, with good public transport connections. The market is held in front of the beautiful Hahnentorburg, one of the few remnants of the city's medieval fortifications, which make a pretty amazing backdrop for the market. The market is famed as one of the best Christmas markets in Cologne for families, with various activities tailored to kids.

The market features a regular Santa Claus meet-and-greet schedule, kid-friendly Christmas workshops, and various music shows. There is a festive stage programme, and hot drinks are served in a "Nicholas boot mug". The market is also home to St. Nicholas's House (Nikolaushaus), a cosy and warm venue for all ages. It features St. Nicholas's kitchen, his desk with a golden guest book for visitors, his armchair, library, and plenty of space for activities. Kids can meet St. Nicholas himself every day between 4:15 pm and 4:45 pm.

The Nicholas Village Christmas Market is open from 18 November to 23 December 2024. The opening times are: Sunday to Thursday, 11 am–9 pm; Friday, 11 am–10 pm; and Saturday, 10 am–10 pm.

Stadtgarten Christmas Market

The Stadtgarten Christmas Market is one of the furthest of all the Christmas markets in Cologne. It is held in the heart of the city's oldest park, in the Belgian Quarter district.

The market is mostly visited by locals due to its distance from the city's main attractions. As a result, the market has a different feel from the others in the city. It is surrounded by trees and away from the hustle and bustle of the city, creating a captivating setting.

The Stadtgarten Christmas Market offers a diverse range of artisanal products with a local influence. The food choices are also exceptional and are one of the market's biggest draws.

The market is open from Monday to Friday, 4 pm–9.30 pm, and on Saturday and Sunday, 12 pm–9.30 pm.

Frequently asked questions