Christmas Markets in Cologne, Germany: A Guide
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Experience the festive charm of Cologne's Christmas markets, where the scent of mulled wine and the glow of twinkling lights create a magical holiday atmosphere.
Christmas Markets in Cologne: (Jump To)
Christmas Markets:
Cologne, Germany, is renowned for its magical Christmas markets that draw visitors from around the world. Each market has its unique charm, offering a variety of festive attractions, delicious treats, and handcrafted goods. Here are some of the best Christmas markets we found while visiting Cologne.
For a non-Christmas visit, or to see other things to do in Cologne, please read our One Day in Cologne Itinerary.
Cologne Christmas Markets Map
Cologne Cathedral Market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom)
Location: In front of the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom).
Map: Google Maps
This market, set against the backdrop of the iconic Cologne Cathedral, is one of the most popular in the city. It features festively decorated stalls offering handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and seasonal treats. The towering Gothic cathedral provides a stunning backdrop, especially when illuminated at night. Don’t miss the huge decorated Christmas Tree at the market center.
Heinzels Winter Fairytale (Alter Markt)
Location: Old Town Alter Markt and Heumarkt Squares
Map: Google Map
The Alter Markt is one of the oldest Christmas market locations in Cologne, dating back to 1820. The market exudes a medieval atmosphere with its nostalgic carousel and a large illuminated Christmas tree. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, local specialties, and browse through stalls selling arts and crafts.
The market is themed to the local legend of the Heinzelmännchen, aka “Brownies”. These tiny creatures, resembling garden gnomes, are all around the market in whimsical positions.
This is the biggest and busiest Christmas market in Cologne. In addition to the numerous stalls of crafts and goodies for sale, the market hosts an ice rink and ice stock sport rink.
Christmas Market at Stadtgarten
Location: Stadtgarten (City Garden)
Map: Google Maps
This market offers a more relaxed and local-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can explore handmade crafts, enjoy live music, and indulge in food and drinks.
The market is located in the oldest park in Cologne. Year-round, the park is home to the Stadtgarten Brewery and Beer Garden which is the central feature of the Christmas Market.
The tall trees and the beautiful park setting add to the market's charm.
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Angel's Christmas Market (Markt der Engel)
Location: Neumarkt
Map: Google Maps
This market is distinguished by its heavenly theme, with angel figures adorning the stalls and decorations and women, dressed as angels, walking the market.
The focus is on high-quality, handcrafted goods and artisan products. It's a charming market to explore for those looking for unique gifts.
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Village of St. Nicholas (Nikolausdorf)
Location: Rudolfplatz
Map: Google Maps
This market has a nostalgic and fairy-tale atmosphere, inspired by the legend of St. Nicholas. Wooden huts showcase traditional crafts, and there are activities for children, including a carousel. It's a family-friendly market with a cozy feel.
Located at the base of the Hahnentorburg, a 13th-century former gated entrance to the city, the market had some of the best shopping stalls of all the markets we visited.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Cologne or Germany!
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Christmas Market at the Harbor (Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt)
Location: Cologne's Old Harbor
Map: Google Maps
This maritime-themed Christmas market was my favorite market in Cologne. The unique setting along the Rhine River added to the beauty of the market.
The market is spread between two main areas connected via a metal footbridge. Visitors can explore stalls offering handmade crafts, enjoy mulled wine, and take in the view of the river and the city skyline.
An extra bonus to this market is the proximity to the Ferris Wheel and Lindt Chocolate Museum.
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Winterzauber Eigelstein Christmas Market
Location: Eigelstein-Torburg
Map: Google Maps
Nestled at the base of another medieval town gate, this market has a more intimate and local feel. It's an excellent place to experience the holiday spirit away from the bustling crowds. The market offers handmade crafts, food, and a cozy atmosphere. When we visited the booths were all staffed by local charity organizations.
Kleinster Weihnachtsmarkt der Stadt
Location: Eigelstein-Torburg
Map: Google Maps
Dubbed the smallest Christmas market in the city, Kleinster Weihnachtsmarkt der Stadt is worthy of a visit. The market is in the courtyard of a 700-year-old Carthusian Church. When we visited a choir singing Christmas carols was emanating from inside the church.
A few stalls selling goods and local treats fill the courtyard. There is also a small outside stage for other performances.
