Read the ultimate list of Christmas markets in Cologne, including maps, opening days, times, and more. Cologne has a variety of Christmas markets, as befits its status as the fourth largest city in Germany. And since it is Christmas, don’t forget the Christmas gifts or gift experiences for your loved ones.
For your convenience, here is the list of Christmas markets in Cologne:.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Set against the majestic Cologne Cathedral, this market is one of the most iconic in Europe, known for its dazzling lights and festive atmosphere.
- Location: Roncalliplatz, 50667 Köln, Germany
- Dates & Hours: Nov 18 – Dec 23, 2024
- Sun-Wed: 11 AM – 9 PM | Thu-Sat: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Highlights: A towering Christmas tree, sparkling light canopy, over 150 stalls with handicrafts and organic culinary delights, live music, and a children’s program in the “Sternwarte.”
- Getting There: A 1-minute walk from Cologne Cathedral.
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Cologne’s Old Town Christmas Market
A whimsical, family-friendly market offering winter sports and fairytale vibes in the heart of Cologne.
- Location: Alter Markt and Heumarkt, 50667 Köln, Germany
- Dates & Hours: Nov 25 – Dec 23, 2024
- Daily: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Highlights: Germany’s largest ice rink, curling, and themed stalls featuring toys, sweets, and traditional German goods
- Getting There: A 4-minute walk from Cologne Cathedral.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
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The Angels’ Market
Known for its serene ambiance, this market is set amidst twinkling trees and angelic decor, offering an elegant Christmas experience.
- Location: Neumarkt, 50667 Köln, Germany
- Dates & Hours: Nov 18 – Dec 23, 2024 (closed Nov 24)
- Sun-Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM | Fri-Sat: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Highlights: Unique gifts, illuminated stars, handmade ornaments, Flammkuchen, and whimsical angels on horseback
- Getting There: Tram 18 from Cologne Cathedral to Neumarkt, followed by a 1-minute walk.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Stadtgarten Christmas Market
Nestled in a park, this market offers an intimate and authentic experience with local crafts and unique handmade items.
- Location: Venloer Str. 40, Stadtgarten, 50672 Köln, Germany
- Dates & Hours: Nov 23 – Dec 23, 2024
- Mon-Fri: 4 PM – 9:30 PM | Sat-Sun: 12 PM – 9:30 PM
- Highlights: Local crafts, silver jewelry, handmade notebooks, and a cozy beer garden setting.
- Getting There: Tram RB48 from Cologne Central Station to Köln West, then a short walk.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible
Nikolausdorf
Located along the Rhine, this market blends a maritime theme with festive charm near the Chocolate Museum.
- Location: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Köln, Germany
- Dates & Hours: Nov 15 – Dec 23, 2024
- Sun-Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM | Fri-Sat: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Highlights: 70 stalls with seafood, crafts, and sweets, plus a 50-meter Ferris wheel overlooking the Rhine.
- Getting There: Bus 132 from Cologne Cathedral to Schokoladenmuseum.
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
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Harbour Christmas Market
This traditional market is centered around the story of St. Nicholas and features festive treats and twinkling lights.
- Location: Rudolfplatz, 50674 Köln, Germany
- Dates & Hours: Nov 18 – Dec 23, 2024
- Sun-Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM | Fri-Sat: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Highlights: Half-timbered chalets, festive lights, a children’s workshop, and daily visits from St. Nicholas.
- Getting There: Tram 18 from Cologne Cathedral to Rudolfplatz.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Conclusion
As we bid farewell to Cologne, we’re captivated by one heartwarming statistic: over 2 million people visit these Christmas markets annually. That’s a sea of individuals, all drawn to the same enchanting spectacle of lights, laughter, and shared holiday cheer.
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