The Best Areas To Stay In Cologne For Christmas Markets

Cologne is a beautiful city with a rich history that turns into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. The city boasts several Christmas markets, including the bustling market at Cologne Cathedral, the quaint Christmas market at Angel's Market, and the family-friendly market, Nicholas Village. With so many markets to explore, visitors may want to consider staying in the city centre, with hotels such as the Hyatt Regency Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst, and Hotel Excelsior offering unparalleled views of the city and easy access to the markets. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Ibis Hotel Köln Am Dom and Hotel Engelbertz - Yggotel Pirol are also conveniently located near the Christmas markets. Whether you're seeking luxury or a more affordable option, booking in advance is recommended as hotels near the markets fill up quickly. So, pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready to immerse yourself in the festive cheer of Cologne's Christmas markets!

Hotels near the Christmas markets

If you're looking for a hotel near the Christmas markets in Cologne, there are several options to choose from. Here are some recommendations:

• CityClass Hotel Alter Markt: Located just 50 feet from the Cologne Christmas Market, this hotel offers elegant interiors, modern bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. It is also within walking distance of the Cologne Cathedral.
• Eden Hotel Früh am Dom: This hotel is situated in the heart of Cologne, opposite the Cologne Cathedral. It offers Wi-Fi, an outdoor terrace, and international cuisine.
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst: A luxury 5-star hotel located across from the Cologne Cathedral and a short walk from the main train station. It features award-winning cuisine and elegant rooms with a free minibar.
• Hotel zur Malzmühle: Located in the heart of Cologne's Old Town, this hotel offers views of the Cologne Cathedral and has a restaurant with a brewery.
• Hyatt Regency Cologne: For a perfect German trip, this hotel is recommended for its prime location along the Rhine River, offering unparalleled views of Cologne.
• Hotel Excelsior Ernst: If you're looking for a nearby hotel, Hotel Excelsior Ernst is just steps away from the famous Cathedral Market. It is also a two-minute walk from the train station and the only five-star hotel in the city centre.
• Legend Hotel: Featuring a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar, this beautiful hotel is located in the centre of Cologne, a short walk from the Museum Ludwig and the old church.
• CityClass Hotel am Dom: This centrally located hotel is just 300 feet from the Cologne Christmas Market and offers stylish, air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
• SMARTY Cologne Dom Hotel: Offering modern and nicely designed accommodation, this hotel is located in the centre of Cologne, just a minute's walk from the Cologne Cathedral.
• Hotel Engelbertz: A family-run hotel located in the heart of Cologne, just a short walk from the landmark cathedral.

These hotels offer convenient access to the Christmas markets and are highly regarded by guests for their location, amenities, and hospitality.

Travel tips for visiting Cologne

Cologne is a beautiful city with a rich history that turns into a Christmas wonderland during the festive season. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Christmas markets of Cologne.

Where to Stay

To fully enjoy all that Cologne has to offer during the holiday season, it is recommended to stay in the city centre, with easy access to the Christmas markets. Here are some hotel suggestions:

• Hyatt Regency Cologne: This hotel is located right along the Rhine River, offering unparalleled views of the city.
• Coellner Hof Hotel: This hotel is a 10-minute walk from the train station and offers well-decorated rooms, a good breakfast buffet, and a decent neighbourhood.
• Senat Hotel: Located in the middle of Altstadt, in a quiet side street, close to attractions like the Cathedral, museums, and the Rhine.
• Pullman Hotel: Situated close to the shopping centres and streets.
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst: A luxury 5-star hotel located right across from Cologne Cathedral and a 2-minute walk from the main train station.
• Hotel Excelsior Ernst: Steps away from the famous Cathedral Market and a 2-minute walk from the train station.

Travel to Cologne

You can fly directly into Cologne Bonn Airport or fly to nearby cities such as Frankfurt or Düsseldorf and take a bus or train to Cologne. The train ride from Düsseldorf is around 30-40 minutes, while from Frankfurt, it is about an hour and a half.

Getting Around

Cologne is easily walkable, and all the markets can be reached on foot. However, other options such as Uber, taxis, and scooters are also available.

What to Expect

Cologne has several Christmas markets to choose from, each with its unique atmosphere and offerings. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Warm Clothing: It gets cold during the winter days, so make sure to dress warmly.
• Cash: Many stalls at the markets do not accept cards, so carry cash.
• Camera: Capture the festive moments and beautiful decorations with your camera.
• Dietary Restrictions: Some markets, like Angel's Market, have vendors who are more knowledgeable about dietary restrictions, so you can find suitable food options.
• Live Music and Lights: The markets, especially the Cathedral Market, come alive in the evenings with live music and colourful lights.
• Local Vibe: Some markets, like Angel's Market, have a more 'local' vibe, where you can chat with students and locals enjoying the festive season.
• Handmade Items: The markets offer a wide range of handmade items, such as jewellery, wooden sculptures, and crafts, perfect for unique Christmas presents.

Food and Drinks

• Grilled Sausage (Wurst): A popular traditional food, grilled on the spot and served with soft bread and sauces.
• Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer): Served with garlic sauce or applesauce.
• Raclette: Toasted bread with melted cheese.
• Handbrotzeit: Soft, warm bread filled with melted cheese and ham or mushrooms.
• Slow-grilled Salmon: A Finnish-inspired dish found at the Harbor Christmas Market.
• Waffles and Crepes: Sweet treats filled with chocolate or sprinkled with powdered sugar.
• Roasted Sugared Almonds: Cinnamon-flavoured roasted almonds, a traditional German Christmas market treat.
• Glühwein (Mulled Wine): A spiced wine served hot, often in custom mugs from each market.

Other Attractions

Besides the Christmas markets, Cologne has a lot to offer in terms of history, architecture, museums, churches, palaces, shopping districts, and parks. Here are some suggestions:

• Museums: Museum Ludwig and Wallraf-Richartz Museum, which feature world-renowned art collections.
• Cathedral: Climb the 533 steps to the top of the iconic Cologne Cathedral for a breathtaking view.
• Chocolate Museum: Discover how chocolate is made and sample endless treats at the Chocolate Museum near the Harbor Christmas Market.

Best Christmas markets in Cologne

Cologne is a beautiful city with a rich history that transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. There are several markets to choose from, each with its unique charm and offerings. Here are some of the best Christmas markets that you should not miss when visiting Cologne:

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom)

The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is the largest and most popular market in Cologne, attracting over four million visitors annually. Set against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Gothic cathedral, this market offers a wide variety of traditional Christmas foods, drinks, and gifts. With over 200 stalls spread across two floors, you're sure to find something to delight your taste buds and satisfy your shopping cravings. The market comes alive at night with vibrant lights, classical carols, and the fragrant smell of Christmas filling the air. Don't miss the 25-meter-high red spruce tree, adorned with stars and 50,000 LEDs, standing tall in the middle of Roncalliplatz.

Advent Village with Christmas Pyramid (Adventsdorf mit Weihnachtspyramide)

Just a stone's throw away from the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, you'll find the quaint Advent Village Market. This small market is characterised by its sizable Christmas pyramid, a traditional feature of German Christmas markets. Here, you can indulge in delicious treats, mulled wine, and Gingerbread cookie ornaments. It's the perfect spot to soak in the festive atmosphere and admire the intricate details of the Christmas pyramid.

The Christmas Market in Cologne's Old Town

If you're seeking small-town charm and a traditional German market experience, head to The Old Market in Cologne. Also known as "Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale," this market is based on the legendary tale of the hardworking Heinzelmännchen, mysterious little journeymen who toiled while the people of Cologne slept. With about 120 stalls, a 1,800-square-meter ice landscape, and a plethora of festive cheer, this market will transport you to a winter wonderland. The Old Town Christmas Market is divided into two sections: the Heumarkt and the Alter Market, each offering its unique attractions, entertainment, and culinary delights.

The Angels' Market (Markt der Engel)

The Angels' Market, located on the Neumarkt Square, is a festive delight adorned with hundreds of twinkling starlights. During the day, the market buzzes with colourful craft and food stands, including handmade chocolates, waffles, and mulled wine. As night falls, the starlights create a magical atmosphere that draws in visitors from near and far. The intricate details and design of the Christmas stalls add to the dreamy and festive vibe. Keep an eye out for the angels working at the market, who will make your experience even more memorable!

Nicholas Village (Weihnachtsmarkt am Rudolfplatz)

The Christmas market on Rudolfplatz will make you feel like you've stepped into an enchanted village. Cozy half-timbered houses, a relaxed atmosphere, handmade crafts, and family-friendly entertainment make this market a favourite for all ages. With hot drinks, tasty treats, and a stage featuring street artists and live bands, it's the perfect place to spend a cozy evening. Santa Claus himself makes an appearance every day between 4 PM and 4:30 PM, spreading holiday cheer and posing for pictures.

The Christmas Market in the Stadtgarten (Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten)

For a smaller, alternative yet romantic Christmas market experience, head to the Stadtgarten Christmas Market in Cologne's Belgian quarter. Wander through the twinkling lights and festive decorations, discovering unique stalls with stylish products, craftwork, and jewellery. With over 80 vendors rotating weekly, you're sure to find something special for everyone on your list. Indulge in delicious dishes like traditional cinnamon rolls, crepes, and Alsatian tarte flambée, and warm yourself with a cup of homemade mulled wine.

So, there you have it! These are just a few of the top Christmas markets that Cologne has to offer. Each market has its unique charm, attractions, and delights, ensuring that your holiday season is filled with magical memories and festive cheer.

Day trips to the markets

Cologne is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam, Brussels, and Frankfurt, making it a great option for a day trip to the Christmas markets. The journey from Amsterdam to Cologne takes around 2.5 hours, and the Cologne train station is just a hundred yards from one of the best markets in Europe. If you're coming from Frankfurt, the train ride is about an hour and a half.

If you're short on time, the Cologne Cathedral Market and the Old Market are within walking distance of each other, and both are very close to the train station, making them a convenient choice. The Cathedral Market is the largest and most popular in town, with over 200 stalls spread across two floors, offering a wide variety of traditional Christmas foods, drinks, and gifts. The Old Market has a more traditional feel, with vendors forging horseshoes, carving wood, and brewing freshly spiced cider.

For those looking for a more 'local' vibe, Angel's Market is a short walk or a quick Uber ride away. The theme is blue and white, with stars adorning all the trees, and the vendors are more knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

If you're looking to visit more than two markets in a day, consider booking a later train back, as four hours might not be enough to see everything.

For those who want to make a longer trip, you can also plan a Christmas market road trip, hitting additional markets in Germany or even France.

Where to stay near the markets

If you're looking to stay near the Christmas markets in Cologne, there are a few options to consider. Here are some recommendations and things to keep in mind:

• Hotel Excelsior Ernst: This luxury five-star hotel is located right across from the Cologne Cathedral and is just a two-minute walk from the train station. It's also the only five-star hotel in the city centre, making it a convenient and comfortable option.
• Hyatt Regency Cologne: Located along the Rhine River, this hotel offers unparalleled views of Cologne and easy access to the city's Christmas markets.
• Altstadt: The Altstadt, or Old Town, is a great area to stay in if you want to be within walking distance of the markets. Hotels in this area, such as the Coellner Hof Hotel, offer easy access to the Cathedral, museums, and the Rhine River.
• City Centre: Staying in the city centre will put you close to all the action. Hotels like the Lint Hotel Köln and Kommerzhotel Köln offer modern amenities and easy access to the Christmas markets, as well as other attractions like the Roman-Germanic Museum.
• Nearby Cities: If you don't mind a short train ride, you can also consider staying in nearby cities like Amsterdam, Brussels, or Frankfurt. These cities offer easy access to Cologne's Christmas markets and have their own charming attractions.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that hotels near the Christmas markets can fill up quickly, so it's recommended to book well in advance. With a variety of options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect place to stay for your holiday trip to Cologne!

Frequently asked questions