“It’s the most beautiful time of the year…” – all ready for Xmas market season in Cologne!

For the residents of Cologne it certainly is the most beautiful time of the year. Also for all the neighbouring countries that are desperate to experience the Christmas magic in one of the most important cities in Germany. If you want to visit the top rated Christmas markets on social media last year then start planning your trip to Cologne. Not for nothing we were number 1 on Tik Tok: The magic of Christmas meets the majestic Kölner Dom cathedral, while traditional local songs play in the background (but hey here we also listen to Mariah Carey) and people drink the delicious Glühwein. Haven’t you tried it yet? There is something that Germans love during the winter, and that is this drink that they use to fight the cold. You can find it at all markets, from the most touristic to the smallest or far from the city center!

Fun for all ages

Make sure to check the program of the day for each market. Some have comedy shows, others theatre plays, others live bands… In each one you will find the best food specialties (did someone say sautéed mushrooms with German bread and sauce?) and various drinks for everyone: “Heisse Schoko” or hot cocoa, Glühwein in all its variants (red, white and rosé) and punch. There are also options for children, especially at the Heumarkt Christmas market and the one at the harbor.

Recommended times to enjoy the Xmas Markets so you avoid big crowds

Let’s be honest, these markets are the best… but many people sometimes get overwhelmed because there is no space to walk around, or you can’t find a place to sit down… The Christmas markets will always be calm in the morning (we recommend between 10:30-1200AM) and once you have walked around, you can choose which one to return to for shopping, or to eat a delicious Bratwurst or Reibekuchen!

Our recommended route: 

• Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom: Receiving 2 million visitors per season! One of the must-see and best located in the city. Younger people would call it the most “aesthetic”.
• Heumarkt: The favorite of many, but also the most crowded. How could it not be, if the charm of the little gnomes makes people fall in love? You will see elves baking bread, brewing beer, decorating the different stands, even ice skating! This Christmas market is well known for its giant ice skating rink. A beautiful bridge crosses over the square as a lookout point. You will want to come back every time.

Nikolasdorf or “Santa Claus Village”: The reindeer market with all the Xmas presents! A very nice market, right in the heart of Cologne in front of the impressive medieval gate “Hahnentor”. Adored by the citizens of the city to avoid a bit the more touristy areas.

• Harbour Market / Chocolate Museum: The Christmas market at the Rhein River, inspired by pirate ships and sailors! For those who want to have a more complete plan of the day maybe you can visit the famous Lindt Chocolate Museum a couple of hours before and then stroll through the market, where you will have amazing views of the city if you go for a ride on the Noria-Wheel.