About 3 hours by train from Amsterdam, Köln (Cologne) is Germany’s fourth largest city after Berlin, Hamburg and Munich.
Christmas markets are held throughout the city of Köln in December. Among them, Weihnachtsmarkt Köln, which is held in front of the World Heritage Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), is the largest in the city and attracts more than 4 million visitors in a month.
at the Kölner Dom
The Christmas market, Weihnachtsmarkt Köln in the square of the Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral) is the most popular. There are huge Christmas trees, merry-go-rounds, and lots of shops.
The light up after sunset is super beautiful, so you should see it!
17th Nov to 23rd Dec
Hours:11:00-21:00(Sun-Wed),
11:00-22:00(Thu-Fri),
10:00-22:00(Sat)
Location:Square in front of Kölner Dom (Roncalliplatz)
Web:www.koelnerweihnachtsmarkt.com
Old town Altstadt
The Christmas market Altstadt in the old town has a dwarf motif, and you can find illustrations and objects of cute dwarfs here and there.
It also has a skating rink.
21st Nov to 23rd Dec
Hours:11:00-22:00
Location:Heumarkt amd Alter Markt
Web:www.weihnachtsmarkt-altstadt.de
Angel’s Xmas Market
Markt der Engel, a Christmas market visited by angels. You may be able to meet angels with nice wings here.
17th Nov to 23rd Dec
Hours:11:00-21:00(Sun-Thu),
11:00-22:00(Fri-Sat),
Location:Neumarkt
Web:www.markt-der-engel.de
City garden Stadtgarten
The City Garden Christmas Market Stadtgarten takes place in a quiet park. You can enjoy the harmony of nature and Christmas illumination.
17th Nov to 23rd Dec
Hours:16:00-21:30(Mon-Fri),
12:00-21:30(Sat-Sun)
Location:Stadtgarten Restaurant
Web:www.weihnachtsmarkt-stadtgarten.de
Christmas Market Tour
Let’s drink Mulled Wine!
Try a mulled wine called Glühwein when you’re chilled out at a German Christmas market. Glühwein is a warm cocktail of wine with spices and is a traditional German winter drink.
Glühwein cups are served in glass or china. Please do not throw away this cup. The deposit will be refunded upon return.
The design of the cup is different at the christmas market. Therefore, some people collect it. When you find a favorite bring it home as a souvenir, and enjoy the atmosphere of the Christmas market at home.