In total Cologne hosts 7 Christmas Markets, but 4 of them are particularly large and festive.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Colognes largest and best Christmas Market, this one sits directly at the base of the Cologne’s giant Gothic Cathedral Kolner Dom under a giant Christmas tree. The market is huge, made up of almost 200 wooden stalls and offers entertainment with stage performances at the center of the market throughout the festival. It serves up the normal fare: Gluhwein, brats, wooden craftwork. To find, head to the Kolner Dom.
Alter Markt Christmas Market
The Old Town Christmas Market is in front of the Old Cologne Town Hall is maybe the prettiest market in Cologne. Set amidst gabled and half-timbered houses, it feels very whimsical. It’s a very family friendly market with a puppet theatre and Santa Claus’ grotto. This market sells great German food and handmade crafts. It also has a fun ice rink that’s open every day of the season. To find, head to the Old Town Hall.
Neumarkt Christmas Market
This is Cologne’s oldest Christmas Market and is otherwise known as the Angels Market. Located in Cologne’s main shopping area, you’ll find wooden chalets, tons of trees draped with fairy lights, and angel decorations and craftwork. To find, head to St. Aposteln’s Church.
Christmas Market on the Rudolfplatz
This market is set against one of Cologne’s medieval gate houses, Hahnentorburg. Half-timbered houses and fairy tale figures give it a lot of charm. To find, head to Hahnentorburg. The market is smaller with 60 stalls.
Cologne Harbour Christmas Market
Right nearby Cologne’s Chocolate Museum this maritime-themed market at Cologne’s harbor is set on the Rhine. Mulled wine is served from the hull of a boat, music includes sea shanties, and fish is served up along with the traditional fare. With about 80 tents, you’ll have plenty to wander through and the products mostly include Christmas and seafaring. To find, head to the Chocolate Museum.
Other Markets:
- Stadtgarten Christmas Market – along Stadtgarten park, cozier, quieter, and rustic
- Chlodwigplatz Advent Market – community-run, local
- Christmas Avenue – LGBTQ Christmas market