Ultimate Guide to the Cologne Christmas Market
Cologne at Christmas feels like stepping straight into a big city winter fairy tale, with twinkling lights and the striking cathedral casting its glow over red-roofed market stalls. The city is home to some of Germany’s most magical Christmas markets, each with its own charm. Cologne is routinely at the top of “Best Christmas Market’ lists, and for good reason! I was truly impressed once I visited, and think that the Cologne Christmas Market has definitely earned its reputation.
In this post, you’ll find all the practical tips you need—where to go, what to eat, and how to plan your time—so you can make the most of your Cologne Christmas market adventure.
There are affiliate links on this post. If you click and buy, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you, which supports the work that goes into keeping this blog running and free. Thanks for reading! For more info, see disclosures.
Where is Cologne?
Cologne is in the Western part of Germany in North Rhine-Westphalia. It is a large city with it’s own airport and sits on the edge of the Rhine River. I made a custom Google Map with all the markets saved along with some other points of interest. You can click the map image or click here to see the map.
Cologne Christmas Markets FAQ
Do they take cards?
Yes, most vendors at the Cologne Christmas Markets are now accepting credit cards. BUT, it is still Germany and you should be prepared for a vendor to only accept cash. The golden rule of traveling in Germany is, always have cash available. You might also need small change to use a public restroom.
What should I wear?
First and foremost, you should dress to be comfortable. Layers are important so you can adjust yourself based on the temperature. Most of the time I wear:
Base layers/leggings
Jeans
Sweater
Long puffy coat
Gloves
Hat
Scarf
Small Backpack
If you don’t dress warm enough, you’ll be miserable. Sometimes the day time temps are mild and you won’t need all the layers, stuff them in your backpack until the sun goes down and you need them again.
Is the Cologne Christmas Market kid friendly?
Yes, but some markets are more entertaining for kids than others. Most of the time you can find some small rides or maybe an ice skating rink. There are plenty of treats available to help motivate or reward good behavior. But your kids will likely tire of shopping and eating in the cold so it’s good to have other things planned as well.
Is it one market?
No, there are several markets scattered around the city. They each have a different name and feel to them. The main market is near the cathedral but there are many others to visit!
Can I walk between markets?
Yes, most are within an easy walking distance of each other. Cologne also has a mini train that can take you from market to market. Or you can use public transportation.
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Cologne Christmas Market Dates
Each market in the city has its own opening and closing dates. The earliest ones open on November 14. Most close on December 23 with a few staying open a few days later. Specific dates are listed below each market further down in the article. You should always check your friend Google to double check though. Almost every market has their own website or is listed on the city’s tourism website.
How to Get to the Cologne Christmas Markets
Fly
Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is the nearest airport, located just 15 minutes from the city center by train or taxi, with regular flights from major European cities. Düsseldorf is another airport closeby that could have some inexpensive flights from around Europe.
If you’re coming from another continent, your connections might be better into Frankfurt or Brussels. You can get to either of those cities and then take the train or drive to Cologne.
Train
Cologne is a major rail hub with excellent high-speed connections. You can take the train easily from other cities in Germany (or neighboring countries) and combine Cologne with other places for an entire German Christmas market trip (or beyond).
ICE trains are the fastest but most expensive. There are also regional trains. The Deutsche Bahn app is easy to use. Make sure to read the fine print on the type of ticket you buy. The least expensive ones are the least flexible.
Driving
Cologne is well-connected by Germany’s autobahn network, with clear signage and plenty of parking garages around the city center. I wouldn’t recommend driving each day you’re in the city but it is an easy and flexible mode of transportation to get here.
Getting Around Cologne
Cologne is very well connected by public transportation with buses, trams, and a metro to take you anywhere you want to go. Consider getting the Kölncard which not only gives you free public transportation, but also discounts to several sites, tours, bike rentals, and restaurants in the city.
The city is fairly flat and walkable. When I visited with friends, we walked the entire time and got our steps in.
Cologne has a Christmas Market Train that can take you around the city to four main markets. An all day hop on, hop off ticket is 15 euros per adult and 7 euros per child. You can also buy one trip tickets that take you to the next market on the route for 4 (adult)/2 (child) euros.
The stops are: Christmas Market at the Cologne Cathedral, Heinzel’s Winter Market (AKA the Gnome Market), Market at the Chocolate Museum & Harbor, and the Angel Market.
You can drive to get to Cologne if that’s your preference (often we prefer to drive), but once you get to Cologne, park the car and walk or use public transportation. Don’t bother trying to drive to get to each market.
How Many Days in Cologne
If your main interests are the Cologne Christmas markets, you could allow just 2 days. If you’d like to add in some sightseeing, museums, and shopping give yourself 3-4 days. Add more days to add in day trips.
Why are the Cologne Christmas Markets the best?
In my head, I was always wondering, “Why does everyone love Cologne’s Christmas Markets so much?” Now that I visited and experienced it for myself, I’ll let you in on the reasons why. In fact, we visited once way back in 2012 and I was not impressed, didn’t see what all the fuss was about. But I made a huge mistake and only visited the Cathedral market, and only during the day.
Cologne has multiple markets and each one has a very different theme or feel to it. This makes for some fun variety and curiosity about what the other ones will be like. If you’ve visited other markets before, it can feel repetitive. But Cologne has unique markets that will keep you entertained and interested. It’s fun to go around to each one to see what the decorations are, what food they have, and what special things you can find there.
Make sure you try to see the markets during the morning (less crowded) and at night (with the lights). It makes a big difference!
Cologne Cathedral Market
The Cathedral Market is the main centerpiece to Cologne’s Christmas markets. It sits at the base of the Cologne Cathedral and welcomes over 4 million visitors each year. Because it is so popular, I recommend coming on weekdays if you can manage it.
One thing I loved about this market was the food variety! You could get traditional German market food and also a variety of international dishes. As someone who does not love bratwurst, I really love this!
It is also stunningly beautiful under the canopy of Christmas lights and red roofed booths. Make sure you leave time to visit at night to get the full magical effect.
Dates: November 17-December 23, closed November 23
Hours: Sunday-Wednesday 11-9, Thursday/Friday 11-10, Saturday 10-10
Address: Roncalliplatz, 50667 Köln
Arrival by Tram: U 5, 16, 18 and S 6, 11, 12, 13, 19, stop Dom/Hauptbahnhof
Market of Angels
This is the most elegant market in the city. I joke that it’s where you go with your bougee friends. The mugs here have a little bit of a cult following. As you can expect, they are angel themed and people often make sure that they take one of these angel mugs home.
This market sits in a small city park underneath glowing stars made of lights. This is another place you definitely have to come both at day and at night. Also keep an eye out for real life angels walking around, a magical touch!
Dates: November 17-December 23, closed November 23
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11-9, Friday/Saturday 11-10
Address: Neumarkt, 50667 Köln
Arrival by Tram: U 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 16, 18, stop Neumarkt
Website: https://www.markt-der-engel.de/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Marktflyer-MDE-2025-Webseite-1.pdf
Heinzels Winter Fairy Tale/Gnome Market
This is the most fun and whimsical market in Cologne and where your kids will want to be. Stepping into this market almost feels like stepping into Disneyland with cute gnomes everywhere and vendors all in thematic costumes. Find a historic carousel and a ferris wheel ride here.
Pay attention to your mugs as they each feature a different gnome (they even have numbers), maybe you want to see how many you can collect! Also unique to this Christmas market is the ice rink at the center! You can skate or reserve a court for eisstock, a classic game.
This is the only market in town open past the New Year, the last day to visit is January 4!
Dates: November 24-January 4, closed December 24 & 25
Hours: 11-10, after December 26 11-9
Address: Heumarkt und Alter Markt, 50667 Köln
Arrival by Tram: U1, U5, U7, U9, stop Heumarkt
Website: https://www.heinzels-wintermaerchen.de/en/homepage/
Harbor Market
This market is on the riverside right next to the Chocolate Museum. It is not the most charming market but it does have the huge 50m ferris wheel and a pirate ship for a backdrop. You’ll find over 70 market stalls here selling all kinds of wares.
I specifically bought giant paper lantern decorations here and a cozy winter hat. If you want to combine your visit with the Chocolate Museum, make sure to reserve your tickets far enough in advance because they do sell out. If they are sold out, you can still pop inside to the giftshop or to use a warm bathroom.
Dates: November 14-December 23
Hours: 11-9 weekdays, 11-10 weekends, special hours November 16 & 23
Address: Im Zollhafen 2, 50678 Köln
Arrival by Bus: Line 133, stop Schokoladenmuseum
Arrival by Tram: U1, U7, U9, stop Heumarkt
Nikolausdorf
For some reason this market is not showing up on the official website for Cologne, but it was a really fun and cute market. Walk through an old castle gate to get to this market that looks like Santa’s village. There was live music in here and plenty of festivities going on. We even found really fun rainbow colored glühwein mugs! There are also craft activities for kids available in this market, and you can visit St. Nikolaus every afternoon at 4:00. St. Nikolaus roams the village from 4:30-5:30 so this is great market to bring kids to!
I could not find current opening dates and times for this market.
Address: Rudolfplatz, Köln (a short walk from the Angels Market)
Arrival By Tram: U1, U7, U12, U15, stop Rudolfplatz
Website:
Stadtgarten
The Christmas Market at Stadtgarten hosts over 60 vendors who change weekly. There will always be something new to see. You can enjoy browsing the goods and indulging in the food and drinks. Make sure to check the schedule as there are live performances on the stage as well!
Dates: November 14-December 23
Address: Venloerstr. 40, 50672 Köln
Arrival By Tram: U3, U4, U5, U12, U15, stop Friesenplatz
Heavenue
This special market has been absent for the past few years, but is back at a new location. Heavenue makes you feel like you are entering Heaven with its pastel colors, 10 meter long water fountain, and revolving Christmas tree. This market is LGBTQ friendly, but anyone can visit and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Dates: November 17-December 23
Hours: Monday-Thursday 11-10, Friday/Saturday 11-11, Sunday 11-10
Address: Limburg Street/Friesenplatz
Veedels Advent Market
This is another cozy market in the shadow of an old city gate that will give you the feeling of stepping back in time. This market is a little bit further away from where the rest of the markets are, so it is sure to give you a local feel.
Dates: November 20-December 23
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 12-10, Friday/Saturday 12-11
Address: Chlodwigplatz, 50677 Köln
Website: https://veedelsadvent.de/
What to Eat at the Cologne Christmas Market
With so many culinary options at the markets, the hardest part will be saving enough room in your stomach to try them all! I’ll leave you with a few of my favorites, but there are many, many options. Choose whatever sounds good to you at the time.
Reibekuchen (Kartoffelpuffer) with Applesauce or Knoblauchsauce
These are fried potato pancakes that are quite common on the western side of Germany, but I rarely saw them at the markets in Bavaria. The most classic way to eat them is with apple sauce, but I personally prefer them with the garlic (knoblauch) sauce.
Flammlachs
Salmon cooked over an open flame. You can get it in a roll or by itself. This is another dish I have a hard time resisting if I see it.
Langos
This is a Hungarian dish which is basically a piece of fried dough with sour cream, cheese, and whatever toppings you like. I always add garlic and get it with ham bites as well.
Gluhwein (how it works with pfand)
Before you visit any Christmas Market, you need to know how the drink pfand system works. When you buy any hot drink, glühwein or anything else, you’ll be given your drink in an adorable little ceramic or glass mug. Each market tends to have their own unique set of mugs. They often make different ones each year, and they have become sort of a collector’s item.
The drink price you see on the menu does not include the pfand (deposit for the mug). You’ll need to find that price, typically between 3 and 5 euros, and add it to the price of your drink. If/when you return the mug to the stand, you’ll be given a refund for the pfand.
If you’d like to keep your mug, you can! Many people bring them home as souvenirs. It’s a good idea to pack baby wipes and/or a ziploc bag so that you can avoid dripping cocoa or glühwein all over your purse or backpack.
Glühwein is the most classic Christmas market drink. It’s a mulled wine with spices. You can get white or red, and sometimes even a rose. You can also add a shot to your glühwein for extra kick. Popular shots to add are brandy or amaretto.
There are lots of other hot drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) to sample if glühwein isn’t your thing.
Feurerzangenbowle
This is the most fun drink to order in my opinion. It’s a mug of glühwein (sometimes a stronger version) served with a rum soaked sugar cube on top and set on fire! Before you order, I suggest watching other people order to see what you’re getting. Sometimes they light the sugar on fire over the big pot instead of your individual mug. Personally, if I’m going to get one, I want my own mug on fire but that’s just me. It’s definitely a memorable experience, have your friends with their cameras ready!
What to Buy at the Cologne Christmas Market
Christmas Markets are all about shopping after all! But instead of shopping big box stores, you can shop smaller, local sellers and artisans. This is a great way to pick up Christmas gifts for people or for some special things for yourself. Here are some of the most quintessential things you’ll see at the booths at the markets, but don’t forget to keep your eyes out for unique things too!
Paper Stars
These are such pretty decorations. They come in all colors, different shapes and sizes and most sellers can provide you with an American plug or a European one. You’ll see houses in Germany hanging these stars in their windows. They fold flat so they are easy to pack in your suitcase.
Spinning Votive Candle Holders
These are another very classic Christmas decoration. Most of the time they are made of silver metal and have a rotating fan with dangling decorations that spin around when you light the candle. They are usually pretty inexpensive, and come in small boxes.
Scarves, Mittens, Hats
Don’t worry if you don’t pack enough warm clothes, you can definitely buy cold weather accessories at the market! They range from inexpensive mass produced items to more high quality, handmade pieces.
Ornaments & Nutcrackers
You can find some really beautiful ornaments and Nutcrackers at the markets. If getting a high quality nutcracker is important to you, make sure to check for a “made in China” sticker. Another indicator is the price. The mass produced ones range from 10-20 euros where nicer more handcrafted ones will be much more.
Be careful about the beautiful blown glass ornaments. They are beautiful but they are much more delicate and risk breakage easier. I typically try to find wooden or metal ones, or a flat ornament that is easier to pack and less likely to break.
Christmas Village Houses
If you love Christmas villages, you’ll love the little village houses for sale. They are made of clay and have cute European charm to them. Most of them have a hole for you to put a candle in and maybe a spot for some scented oil.
Other Things to Do in Cologne
Visit the Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that towers over Cologne’s skyline. Inside, you’ll find soaring stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and the Shrine of the Three Kings, said to hold relics of the Magi. Climbing the 533 steps to the top of the south tower rewards you with sweeping views of the city and the Rhine River.
The cathedral is free to enter, though a small fee applies for the tower climb. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening helps avoid crowds and allows you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not just a church but also a cultural symbol of Cologne, making it an absolute must-see for history lovers and photographers.
Sip kölsch at a brewery
Sipping a glass of Kölsch in one of Cologne’s traditional breweries is an experience that goes beyond just tasting beer—it’s a rite of passage. Served in small, cylindrical glasses called Stangen, Kölsch is crisp, light, and brewed only in Cologne, making it a must-try for visitors.
The atmosphere in the breweries is lively, with servers circulating constantly to replace your empty glass until you place a coaster on top to signal you’re finished. Trust me when I tell you, they will just keep it coming until you do this! They keep track of how many you’ve had by making tally marks on your coasters. For the best experience, plan to visit a classic brewery like Früh or Päffgen, both located near the cathedral. Or take a full brewery tour that also includes tastings.
Lindt Chocolate Museum
A visit to Cologne’s Chocolate Museum is the perfect mix of indulgence and education. Inside, you’ll learn about the history of chocolate, see how it’s made, and even watch machines in action producing fresh bars. The highlight for many is the giant chocolate fountain, where you can dip a crispy wafer into flowing liquid Lindt chocolate. Kids and adults alike will love the interactive exhibits, and the on-site café offers desserts that are almost too pretty to eat.
Booking tickets in advance, especially on weekends, is recommended as the museum can get quite busy. If you can’t get tickets, you can still pop inside to the shop where you’ll find every kind of chocolate variety you can imagine!
River Cruise
Taking a river cruise along the Rhine gives you a completely different perspective of Cologne. From the water, you’ll admire the city skyline, with the cathedral standing proudly above the rooftops. Many cruises include commentary that explains Cologne’s history and landmarks, making it both relaxing and informative. Short daytime trips are perfect if you’re tight on time, while evening cruises let you see the city lights reflect off the river in a magical way. Boats typically depart from the piers near the Old Town, and tickets are easy to purchase on-site or online in advance.
Where to Stay in Cologne
Cologne is a very well-connected city, so you don’t have to feel like you need to stay right next to the Cathedral to enjoy your visit. There’s plenty of options between hotels and apartments. Here are some properties worth checking out for your dates. If they don’t work for you, use the map feature to find something that has what you need.
Raddison art’otel-Hotel run by a trusted brand, central location, family rooms/suites, and a fitness room
Hippes Apartment im Herzen Kölns-large apartment with two bedrooms in a very central location and modern furnishings
Excelsior Hotel-Luxury hotel right at the base of Cologne’s Cathedral
Maison Marsil-Boutique hotel with chic decor, walking distance from most of the markets
Continue Your Christmas Market Itinerary
Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf hosts several themed Christmas markets spread across the city center, each with its own unique charm, from ice rinks to artisan crafts. The Königsallee shopping boulevard sparkles with holiday lights, while the Old Town offers cozy pubs and riverside strolls. This city is especially lively in December, making it a favorite for a festive evening out.
Train: ~30 min | Drive: ~40 min
Bonn
Once the capital of West Germany, Bonn offers a warm, traditional Christmas Market centered around Münsterplatz. Handmade ornaments, festive food stalls, and a cheerful atmosphere make it perfect for a cozy afternoon. Don’t miss Beethoven’s birthplace nearby, or a riverside walk along the Rhine.
Train: ~30 min | Drive: ~40 min
Aachen
Aachen’s Christmas Market transforms the square in front of its UNESCO-listed cathedral into a festive wonderland. Stalls overflow with gingerbread, mulled wine, and handmade gifts, while the cathedral itself adds a breathtaking backdrop to the holiday cheer. Aachen is also known for its thermal baths and historic old town, which are easy to explore on foot.
Train: ~1 hr | Drive: ~1 hr
Monschau
This storybook village in the Eifel region looks like a Christmas card come to life. Timber-framed houses, narrow cobbled streets, and a market filled with local crafts and seasonal treats make Monschau especially magical in winter. Its small size means you can wander slowly and soak in the charm at a relaxed pace.
Train: ~2 hrs (with connections) | Drive: ~1 hr 20 min
Heidelberg
Heidelberg’s market is set against the romantic backdrop of its castle ruins and baroque Old Town. Wooden chalets line the squares, and the ice-skating rink beneath the castle makes it especially family-friendly. The city itself is rich in history, with Germany’s oldest university and stunning views from the Philosopher’s Walk.
Train: ~2 hrs | Drive: ~2 hrs 20 min
Nuremberg
The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. Traditional stalls with their red-and-white striped roofs, sell goods, the city’s signature gingerbread (this is the birthplace of gingerbread), and handcrafted ornaments. With its medieval old town and the castle, Nuremberg offers charm, history, and an abundance of festive spirit.
Train: ~3.5 hrs | Drive: ~4 hrs
Nuremberg’s Christmas market is a classic.
Alsace (Strasbourg/Colmar)
The Alsace region in France is world-famous for its fairy-tale towns and festive markets. Strasbourg, called the “Capital of Christmas,” dazzles with one of Europe’s oldest markets, while Colmar enchants with canals, half-timbered houses, and multiple market squares. Both cities blend French and German traditions for a truly magical holiday outing. Read my guide to Alsace Christmas Markets here.
Train: ~3–3.5 hrs | Drive: ~3.5 hrs
Munich
Munich’s main Christmas Market fills Marienplatz with sparkling lights, Bavarian treats, and festive music. Beyond the market, you can explore the grand Residenz palace or enjoy a warm drink in one of the city’s historic beer halls. The size and variety of Munich’s markets make it a destination for those wanting a bigger holiday experience. Also read this guide to visiting Munich with Kids.
Train: ~4.5 hrs | Drive: ~5.5 hrs
This is just a tiny taste of the overtop decorations you’ll find in Strasbourg and the Alsace region.
What to Pack for Cologne/Germany
Esim
Well, you don’t really have to pack this, just buy it before you go. It will save you tons of money on your data plan and is the absolute most convenient way to stay connected with your travels. It works immediately upon landing so you can navigate public transportation, look up restaurants, and post your first looks at the markets.
Euro Cash
This is Germany after all, and they tend to love their cash. Most places will take cards (make sure you have one without an international fee) but have some euros ready just in case.
Travel Adapter Plugs
I am a huge proponent of always having at least one universal travel adapter with you because I have made mistakes before on which type of plug a country uses. For example, if your trip will be combined with the UK, Switzerland, or Italy...you’ll need different plugs!
Portable Phone Charger
The cold will zap your phone battery quicker than you think. Make sure to carry around a portable charger with you. I like these magnetic ones that easily attach to the back so my phone can charge but I can keep shooting away easily.
Phone Leash
If you love to take photos and videos like I do, you’ll want your phone out and accessible and not have to reach in and out of your backpack every time. Use one of these straps to keep your phone handy and attached to you instead of loose in a pocket.
Bags
Many of the vendors you shop with won’t provide you a shopping bag. I love the reusable shopping bags from DM (similar from Amazon) because they fold up so small and are super lightweight and easy to stuff in your bag. I also recommend you bring a backpack or tote bag with a zipper. Do not bring an open tote, you’re asking for a pickpocket to get in there.
Waterproof Gear
If you catch the market on a rainy or snowy day, you’ll want to have a waterproof coat and shoes. It’s no fun to get soaking wet while you’re trying to enjoy the markets. Do as the Germans do and dress appropriately for the weather, and don’t let some bad weather get in the way of your fun.
I don’t recommend umbrellas though because, its too crowded-you’re going to hit someone in the face. Also it requires your hands, and makes it harder to drink glühwein, shop, and take videos. Just make sure your coat has a good hood on it instead.
