The best Cologne Germany Christmas market travel guide with everything you need to know for a magical winter getaway filled with lights, treats, and festive cheer.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping mulled wine while wandering through twinkling wooden stalls with chandeliers hanging above you, Cologne (Köln in German) at Christmas is the place to be.

While known for their cathedral (the largest Gothic church in northern Europe), being the founding place of Eau de Cologne, and Kölsch beer (!!), this city in Northwest Germany goes all out for the holidays—with not one, but several Christmas markets scattered around town, each with its own vibe.

My husband and I have made taking a European Christmas market trip a tradition ever since our youngest left for college in 2019.

Well – kind of – Covid put a halt on our tradition for a few years ;0.

We discovered that when we find ourselves at a European Christmas market, we (well maybe me more than my husband – lol) feel the Christmas spirit on a level we can’t seem to find elsewhere.

Our first experience with Christmas markets in Germany was in 2023 to Munich and Nuremberg.

If you are looking for other places to visit at Christmas time – click here to be taken to all my Christmas travel destination guides :).

And then in 2024, we returned to Germany to visit the Cologne and Heidelberg Christmas markets (I have included our entire 2024 itinerary at the bottom of this post!).

I sincerely hope that because you are reading this travel guide, this magical city is on your radar for a place to visit during the holiday season – you will NOT be disappointed!!

In a rush?

The Little Details

Maps

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:

Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers of the map and names of places included. You can click the check marks to hide or show the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information from each point of interest.

If you click the little star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view the map on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the ‘menu’ button, go to ‘Saved’ on a computer and ‘You’ then ‘Saved’ on phone, click ‘Maps,’ and you will see this map on your list.

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How to Get to Cologne

Getting to Cologne is pretty easy, and there are a few ways you can do it depending on where you’re coming from (see map above for locations of closest international airports and train stations).

The city has its own airport – Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) – which is super convenient and just about 15 minutes from the city center by train or taxi.

When we visited in 2024, we actually flew into Düsseldorf (DUS) because the flights worked better for us on British Airways from London.

From there, we booked a Blacklane car for the drive to Cologne ~ learn more about this fantastic global car company here.

It was smooth and comfortable, and the ride took just under an hour—super easy after a long flight.

If you’re already in Europe, the train is another great option, especially with high-speed routes connecting from cities like Amsterdam, Brussels, and Frankfurt.

We used the train to get from Cologne to Heidelberg for the second half of our trip.

The Cologne train station is very easily located right next to the Rhine River and behind the Cathedral which was also right next to the centrally located hotel we stayed at :).

And the train system in Germany is one of the best in Europe :).

How to Get Around Cologne

Getting around Cologne is super easy, especially if you’re up for a little walking.

Most of the main sights—like the Christmas markets, the cathedral, Old Town, the Rhine promenade, museums, and shopping streets—are all pretty close together, so there’s no need for a car.

We got our steps in every day without even trying, just wandering from spot to spot.

If your feet need a break, Uber is readily available in Cologne and the trams and buses are clean, easy to figure out, and run on time—but honestly, walking let us see so much more and feel the vibe of the city – 10/10 recommend!!

There is also a mini train that runs seasonally between the 4 most popular Christmas markets in Cologne – you can learn more here about that option :).

How Many Days You Need in Cologne

We stayed in Cologne for four nights, and honestly, it was the perfect amount of time—especially since we were shaking off some jet lag after flying in around 9pm on the 2nd day of our trip from San Diego (it’s a long overnight haul from the west coast!).

We moved at a slow and easy pace—nothing rushed, nothing overly scheduled—and it made the whole experience feel way more festive and enjoyable.

If you are a regular follower (here on the blog or over on Instagram!) – you know we are an empty nesting couple in our mid 50’s – thus slow travel has become a very amazing new norm for us – AND WE LOVE IT!

With 3 full days in Cologne, we had plenty of time to wander the Christmas markets, take in the sights, stop for warm drinks (ahem gluhwein!), and just soak it all in without feeling like we had to hustle from one thing to the next or on a rushed or tight schedule ;0.

We highly recommend this slow method of travel all the time (especially if you are middle aged like us!) – but at Christmas time – taking it slow and focusing on enjoying the company of your travel partner(s) and the festive atmosphere should really be the #1 priority rather than just checking as many Christmas markets as you can off a list ;0.

Time will always be a precious commodity and the sooner you realize – hey I might just not see it all but I am going to love what I do see (like we did a few years ago!) – I promise you will get so much enjoyment out of your times away from home :).

HOWEVER, if you really can’t slow it down and want to hit the highlights of Cologne at Christmas time, I’d say two full days is the bare minimum you’d want in this city ;\.

Money and Plugs in Germany

In Germany, the currency is the Euro (€).

Cash isn’t widely used, but having a little on hand for small purchases can be handy – especially at the Christmas markets where some of the vendors actually only take cash.

The only place I suggest getting cash in a foreign country is from an official bank ATM to avoid unnecessary fees!

Otherwise, credit cards are your best friend and widely accepted throughout the country – just be sure you have a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees because those sure do add up ;(.

Don’t forget to pack a Type C or F plug adapter (these are my favorites) for your electronics.

I won’t travel without this travel extension cord or this portable charger because nothing kills the Christmas market vibe faster than a dead phone and no way to charge it!

Best Places to Stay in Cologne

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

We stayed four nights at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom, a five-star hotel that seriously couldn’t be in a better spot—it’s right across from the Cologne Cathedral, so you’re in the heart of everything.

From the moment we arrived, the staff was warm, welcoming, and genuinely helpful without being over the top.

We splurged on a suite with a view of the cathedral, and let me just say, waking up to that view was totally worth it.

It made coming back to the hotel after a day of exploring feel extra special, like our own quiet little moment in the middle of the city.

The included morning breakfast was a fantastic way to start each day of exploring as well :).

Hyatt Regency Köln

Staying at the 5-star Hyatt Regency Cologne gives you front-row views of the Rhine River and the iconic Cologne Cathedral—right from your room if you upgrade to a room with a view ;).

It’s in a perfect spot, just a short walk across the famous Hohenzollern Bridge to the Old Town, making it super easy to get around and still enjoy some peace and quiet when you’re ready to wind down.

Photos above courtesy of Hyatt Regency Cologne Instagram

Hilton Cologne

Staying at the 4-star Hilton Cologne at Christmas time puts you right in the heart of the city—just steps from the famous Cologne Cathedral and the twinkling lights of the main Christmas market.

This option is super convenient and cozy, and is especially great if you are using (or collecting) Hilton points.

Photos above courtesy of Cologne Hilton Instagram

Best Places to Eat in Cologne

Peters Brauhaus

One of the best meals we had in Cologne was at Peters Brauhaus, which is super popular and always buzzing with people—it’s kind of a go-to spot for classic German food and beer.

There are actually two locations ~ we went to the one near Rudolfplatz around 4pm (before the dinner rush!), which had a fantastic local feel and delicious food.

You just can’t go to Germany without getting wienerschnitzel fyi ;0.

Brauhaus Früh Am Dom

We didn’t end up eating at Brauhaus Früh am Dom, but it’s one of the busiest and most well-known spots in Cologne, especially for traditional Kölsch beer and hearty German dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and sauerkraut.

In case you are as unaware as I was before visiting – Kölsch beer is a light and crisp ale brewed in a specific style that’s popular in Cologne and the surrounding region ;0.

Stadtgarten Cafe Köln

We stumbled on Stadtgarten Café after wandering over to check out the Stadtgarten Christmas market (which, of course, was closed at the time we went).

Honestly, it turned out to be such a good surprise.

Known for its relaxed vibe and seasonal, organic menu—think fresh soups, vibrant salads, and hearty daily specials—we had the whole café to ourselves for a quiet, late lunch, and it felt so peaceful and serene ~ totally deserving of a mention on this travel guide!!

Christmas Market Stalls

Of course this has to be mentioned—eating at the Cologne Christmas markets is half the fun (okay, maybe more than half!).

You’ll want to try the reibekuchen (crispy potato pancakes) with (or without as we like them ;0) applesauce and bratwurst hot off the grill.

Whatever you do, don’t skip the soul-warming glühwein (mulled wine) or if you don’t drink alcohol – order the kinderpunsch version :).

Each market has its own festive collectible mug (yes, they’re all different!), and when you buy your drink, you’ll pay a small deposit—hang onto your mug or return it to get your deposit back.

But honestly, they’re so cute you’ll probably want to keep at least one as a souvenir (or all like we seem to be doing these last couple of years ;0).

They make for some fun holiday decor around the house – I even had some made into candles once I returned home!!

Christmas Markets in Cologne

Cologne really goes all out for Christmas—with six main markets and a handful of hidden ones scattered around the city (see map section above for location of all of them), it feels like there’s something festive on every corner.

I will say however that along our travels, we ran into many Germans that say Cologne’s markets are a bit too polished and not quite “authentic” enough for their taste.

I personally could not get enough of the festive twinkle lights, outdoor chandeliers, and sometimes even sophisticated vibe I felt at many of the Cologne markets.

I am listing them in order of my personal favorites below :).

Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt and Alter Markt

Heinzels Wintermärchen at Alter Markt and Heumarkt has been around since 1820.

Inspired by the old tales of Cologne’s helpful house gnomes, the market spills through cobblestone squares with glowing stalls, an ice skating rink that winds through the area, and chandeliers hanging from the trees that make the whole scene feel like something special without trying too hard.

2025 dates: November 24 to January 4

Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom

Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom is the biggest Christmas market in Cologne, set right in front of the city’s famous Gothic cathedral, and feels like the heart of all the holiday buzz in the city.

It’s been drawing crowds since the late ’90s and is one of the largest in Germany, with hundreds of red-roofed stalls, twinkling lights, and the prettiest Christmas tree with the cathedral as it’s backdrop.

2025 Dates: November 17 to December 23

Since you will likely need to share a table if you get food – it’s almost impossible to not make new friends :).

Advent Village with Christmas Pyramid

Tucked behind the massive Cologne Cathedral on Am Hof, there’s this tiny little Advent Village that’s super easy to miss (see maps section above for location) but was one of our favorites to eat at :).

It’s set up on a quiet wood-chipped plaza and made up mostly of cozy food stalls.

Right in the center stands a tall, spinning Christmas pyramid, a tradition that started in Germany’s Erzgebirge region; these wooden towers with moving tiers were actually the inspiration behind the modern Christmas tree and you’ll mainly find them in German holiday markets, though the idea has spread a bit beyond.

2025 Dates: November 17 to December 23

Markt der Engel Neumarkt

Markt der Engel at Neumarkt is one of Cologne’s prettiest Christmas markets, set in a cozy square surrounded by twinkling trees and little wooden stalls topped with stars.

It’s been around since the late 1990s and was the first in the city to lean into the angel theme—meant to bring a bit of light and magic to the season, inspired by the old legends and holiday traditions of the Rhineland.

2025 Dates: November 17 to December 23

Nicholas’ Village at Rudolfplatz

Nicholas’ Village at Rudolfplatz feels like stepping into a little Christmas town right in the heart of Cologne.

Set against the backdrop of the medieval Hahnentor Burg, it’s full of charm and tradition, with nods to Cologne’s history as one of Germany’s oldest cities.

There is a warm and cozy indoor stall where children can write letters to St Nicholas – you might even have a St. Nicholas sighting if you stick around long enough :).

2025 Dates: November 17 to December 23

Harbour Christmas Market

The Harbour Christmas Market was my least favorite of the Cologne markets.

It felt a bit underwhelming with its plain canvas tents and a ferris wheel that didn’t really add much charm – it just didn’t have that same festive vibe the others did.

But nonetheless, it is right in front of the Chocolate Museum (see below!) – so if you go to that Cologne site – you would be hard pressed to miss this market ;0.

2025 Dates: November 14 to December 28

Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten

We walked about 20 minutes from Old Town to check out the Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten, thinking it would be a fun, more local-feeling Christmas market to explore.

But when we got there on a Monday around noon, it was completely closed—turns out it opens on weeknight evenings at 4pm and 12noon on weekends!

Although, I will say – it was a pleasant walk and the cafe at the Stadtgarten was one of our favorite meals in Cologne soooo….

2025 Dates: Undetermined at publish date of this post – check this site here for more information.

Other Things to See in Cologne (besides the markets)

Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is absolutely massive—it’s one of the tallest churches in the world, and you really feel that the second you step inside.

With its soaring Gothic arches and centuries of history (it took over 600 years to build!), it’s incredible that it’s free to go in and wander around.

We spent about 20 minutes inside (with no wait to get in) and enjoyed the peaceful respite from the crowds at the markets :).

Hohenzollern Bridge

The Hohenzollern Bridge is just under half a mile long and stretches across the Rhine River, covered in thousands of love locks clipped to the rails.

It’s a train bridge—not for cars—and on our last night in Cologne, we walked across it (for the second time of our trip) around 7pm to see the bridge and Cathedral all lit up, and honestly, it ended up being one of my favorite views of the city.

Schokoladen Museum

We popped into the Lindt Chocolate Museum while wandering along the riverfront, and for €14 per adult (2024 prices), it was a fun (and sweet!) little 30 minute stop.

You will enjoy seeing (and drooling at) the giant chocolate fountain – as well as get handed a yummy treat straight from it – and get a little peek at how Lindt Chocolates are made.

If you want to spend longer here – they have the option to make a personalized chocolate bar which would take about 45 minutes to be ready…

Take the time to head out to the raised platform behind the museum—the views of the Rhine River and the bridges are worth the stop :).

Belgian Quarter

If you took my advice and are visiting Cologne at Christmas time at a slow pace (yay!), you will want to take a stroll over to the Belgian Quarter.

It’s just a 15-minute walk from the cathedral and you will love wandering down the charming streets, full of cool boutiques, cozy cafes, and vibrant street art (

Even if most places are closed when you visit (as they were for us) – just feeling the local energy and vibe of this neighborhood will make you feel like you know Cologne a little bit better than if you just stayed in Old Town – plus who doesn’t love window shopping or coming across hidden gems when they travel???!!

Put Brüsseler Platz into your maps app and then go wander the streets getting there – Maastrichter Street is a good street to find some fun shops (both are tagged in the Google map I made in the maps section above!).

Duftmuseum im Farina Haus

We didn’t do the guided tour at the Duftmuseum in the Farina House (it’s only available by timed tours – learn more here), but we did pop into the little shop and lobby and really enjoyed the peek into the city’s fragrance history.

And yes—Eau de Cologne actually is from Cologne! It was first created right here by Johann Maria Farina in the 1700s.

Streets of Old Town

This was my favorite thing to do in Cologne besides the Christmas markets—just getting lost in the old streets near the Rhine.

The little alleyways around Alter Markt, Rheingasse, and the Frankenwerft were full of charm, with colorful buildings, quiet corners, and the kind of cobblestone paths that make you slow down and just take it all in.

Rhine River

Walking along the Rhine River is the perfect way to slow down and take it all in—the river cruises docked in the water, the bridges, and those beautiful old buildings lining the promenade.

One standout is the Great St. Martin Church with its Romanesque architecture – it’s a can’t miss in the Cologne skyline :).

Best Day Trip Options

We had every intention of taking a day trip to Aachen while we were in Cologne—a charming little city with a cathedral and famous Christmas market everyone raves about.

But honestly? Once we settled into the holiday rhythm of Cologne, we didn’t want to rush it.

The slower pace felt just right, especially with the twinkle lights, cathedral bells, and endless mugs of hot mulled wine keeping us cozy.

That said, if you’re up for exploring a little beyond the city, there are some really great day trip options around Christmastime.

Here are a few that are on our neverending Germany Christmas market bucket list:

1. AACHEN

A classic Christmas market town, known for its UNESCO-listed cathedral and the scent of fresh Printen (a type of gingerbread) wafting through the streets. It’s about an hour away by train, and the market there spills through the old town in the prettiest way.

2. MONSCHAU

This one’s straight out of a snow globe. A tiny village tucked into the Eifel hills, with half-timbered houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and a super quaint Christmas market.

You’ll need to take a train and a short bus ride, but totally doable in a day OR easily reachable using our favorite transportation company for trips like this – learn more about Daytrip here!

3. DUSSELDORF

If you’re in the mood for a change of pace—think upscale shopping, chic decorations, and a whole row of Christmas markets with different themes—Düsseldorf is just about 30–40 minutes by train.

It’s got a completely different vibe from Cologne, but still very festive.

4. BONN

Small, sweet, and easy to get to—just a half hour train ride from Cologne.

The Christmas market here is less hectic than some of the bigger cities, but still full of charm.

5. KONIGSWINTER & DRACHENBURG CASTLE

If you’re looking for a little fairytale magic, Drachenburg Castle puts on a Christmas market inside the castle grounds, complete with lights and views over the Rhine.

It’s an easy train ride to Königswinter, followed by a little hike or a funicular ride up the hill.

What to Wear in Germany at Christmas Time

Because the majority of your time will be spent outdoors and often times in the evening once the sun goes down and it is much colder, I would suggest a warm coat, hats, scarves, mittens, etc!

These fleece lined tights have made it so that wearing skirts is totally doable on these Christmas market trips – and who doesn’t want to feel cute when they travel???

I bought this red coat that I felt so festive in when I wore it however on the days that dipped below 30° – I was definitely in my warmer parka.

This cheery red windowpane scarf was a favorite too – especially since my cold weather accessories are really all that can be seen in most of the photos we took ;0.

I splurged for this trip and made a cashmere Burberry scarf my “husband’s early Christmas present” to me and am somewhat obsessed with this luxury item I now own.

If you get the chance – treat yourself once in a while to something so special :).

Our Full Itinerary Day to Day Overview

DAY 1 | Fly San Diego to Düsseldorf via London on British Airways

DAY 2 | Arrive Düsseldorf | Take Blacklane car to Cologne | Stay at Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom for 4 nights

DAY 3 | Cologne: Visit Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom, Heinzels Wintermärchen, Christmas Market at Lindt Chocolate Factory, Wander Old Town Streets, Stroll Schildergasse (main shopping street in Cologne), Visit Köln Markt Der Engel, Early dinner at Peters Brauhaus, Visit Christmas Market at Rudolfplatz

DAY 4 | Cologne: Return to Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom, Go inside Köln Cathedral, Lindt Chocolate Museum, Walk across Hohenzollern Bridge, Dinner at Advent Village Market, Walk through Heinzels Wintermärchen after dark

DAY 5 | Cologne: Shop the streets of the Belgian Quarter, Walk to Stadtgarten- eat lunch, Walk through Markt Der Engel and Rudolfplatz after dark, Walk across Hohenzollern Bridge at night (7pm)

DAY 6 | Train to Heidelberg 10a-1p | Stay at House of Hütter – Heidelberg Suites Boutique for 4 nights

DAY 7 | Heidelberg: Christmas market, Eat at Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg,

DAY 8 | Heidelberg: Photo shoot with Localgrapher, Visit Heidelberg Castle and Deutsches Apothekenmuseum, Early Dinner at top of hill at Berg-Gasthof, Walk across Karl-Theodor Bridge

DAY 9 | Heidelberg: Walk Philosophenweg, Wander streets of Neuenheim neighborhood, Return to Old Town via Theodor Heuss-brücke (bridge), Late lunch at Vetter’s Alt-Heidelberger Brauhaus, Visit Church of the Holy Spirit, visit the Great Hall at the Old University building, End day at Christmas market and Old Town streets

DAY 10 | Fly Frankfurt to San Diego via London on British Airways

I hope you have found this best Cologne, Germany Christmas market travel guide helpful in planning your own magical trip to Germany :).

If I’ve learned anything from holiday trips like this, it’s that it’s okay to leave space for slower moments and skip a few plans.

Cologne gave us all the festive (and romantic!) Christmas vibes we needed – it’s the perfect place to spend some quality time with someone you care about before the real hustle and bustle of the days leading up to Christmas start :). Trust me – we know!!!

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Oh Christmas isn’t just a day,

It’s a frame of mind.

~ Miracle on 34th Street

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Have a wonderful day my friend! I hope something makes you smile today ;).