A weekend trip to the Cologne Christmas Market in Germany
Visiting a Christmas Market in Europe has always been on our bucket list. During our time in Europe we got to visit a few Christmas Markets in Belgium, France and Germany, and it was such a dream come true.
The one market that stands out was the Cologne Christmas market in Germany, or Köln Weinachtsmarkt. This was one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany that we’ve been too.
The best part about the Cologne Christmas Market are the seven themed markets, which are spread throughout the city. On the blog, I will share all the fun Christmas Markets in Cologne, and how to make the most of your visit.
*2021 UPDATE: The Cologne Christmas Markets will go from November 22-December 23, 2021. Visit the website here for more information. Be aware that with the ongoing pandemic, the Christmas Markets may be canceled!
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How to get to Cologne Germany
You can easily reach Cologne Germany by train. The train station is located right in the city center, which makes for an easy commute from anywhere, and you don’t have to worry about parking. If you do decide to drive into Cologne, you can easily park at the Dom Cathedral parking garage.
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How to get around Cologne’s Christmas Markets
Cologne’s seven themed Christmas Markets are spread throughout the city, and can easily be reached by taking the Christmas Tram.
We purchased the Round trip ticket which cost 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children up to 10. You can stop at each location, but only once.
If you want to go back to the same market you would have to purchase another round trip ticket, or a single trip ticket which cost about 3 euros.
Cologne Christmas Markets
The Cathedral Christmas Market
Located right next to the impressive backdrop of the Dom Cathedral, with over 100 beautifully decorated wooden pavilions. This is where you will find some of the best unique gift items, including the most beautiful Christmas ornaments.
The food here is also amazing, make sure to taste the Raclette and apple strudel here. Don’t forget to purchase the collectible Christmas market mugs while here, all seven markets each have their very own mug to collect.
The Angels Market
Colognes oldest market is held on the Neumarkt, the old city center, with its Angel Theme. This was one of the prettiest markets in Cologne.
The decor here was amazing, and the kids will love the angels walking around sprinkling them with some fairy dust.
The Harbour Market
The Harbour Market was one of our favorite themed market in Cologne. This was one of the most unique Christmas Markets in Cologne, with it’s picturesque setting overlooking the Rhine River.
The best part about this market was all the harbour themed foods, including the chocolate shaped nautical candies. The little ones will love all the play areas, and of course the food.
The Alter Market
Colognes Old Market is located in front of the Town Hall, and is probably the prettiest Christmas Market in Cologne. This market is also gnome themed, and you will find all things gnome, including souvenirs for purchase.
The Alter Market also has some of the best foods compared to the other markets in Cologne. Some of our faves include the Reibekuchen potato pancakes, roasted salmon, and various grilled meats and sausages.
The Alter Market is also popular for the kids because this is where you will find the Ice skating rink, a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and many toy stands for the kiddos. This is the most family friendly Christmas market in Cologne, and the kids will absolutely have a great time!
The Nikolausdorf
Located next to the historic backdrop of the medieval Hahnentorburg, the Nikolausdorf Market will definitely be your kids favorite with its Santa theme. This is where you will find all things Christmas, including Santa Claus and his reindeers.
The Christmas Avenue
Colognes LGBT themed market, with its pink and purple festive chalets. Be aware when visiting this market with kids, as you will most likely bump into something racy.
The last market is The Market in the Stadtgarden, we didn’t make it to this Christmas Market, because we simply ran out of time. It’s considered to be a charming market with a romantic vibe.
German Christmas Market Food
The best part about Cologne’s Christmas market is all the yummy food. We were obsessed with the German potato pancake called Reibekuchen, it was so delicious. The hot Gluhwein kept us warm in the cold, as well as the hot Apfelstrudel.
You can’t miss sampling some roasted salmon, which is cooked right in front of you on an open fire, it was the best we’ve ever tasted!
Where to stay in Cologne Germany
During our weekend visit to Cologne Germany, we stayed at the Hilton Cologne hotel, which was just a short walk away from the Dom Cathedral. This was the perfect hotel stay in Cologne Germany, with the most amazing room service breakfast spread.
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Booking.comThe Koln Christmas market was so magical, we felt like we were transported back to the North Pole. We spent three days in Cologne and had an amazing time.
These German Christmas markets were some of the best, and was such a memorable experience. The highlight of Cologne’s Christmas Markets are all the fun activities.
You can go ice skating, ride the carousel, enjoy all the carnival games, and shop to your hearts content and find that unique gift item.
For more on our Christmas market road trip, read our blogs:
Strasbourg France Capitale de Noel
Exploring Belgiums Christmas Markets
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