Is Cologne Christmas market worth visiting?

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.

Does Cologne have a good Christmas market?

Cologne is by far one of the most famous Christmas market destinations in Germany and one of my personal favourites. After all, it may just boast one of the most atmospheric and beautiful backdrops to a Christmas Market in the entire country: the stunning Cologne Cathedral, one of the tallest cathedrals in the world.

Is Cologne worth visiting in Christmas?

The Christmas markets offer activities for young and old. Children can have fun on carousels and ice-skating rinks while the grown-ups shop to their hearts' content and enjoy the delights of the season. In Cologne visitors experience the Christmas season in all its glory.

Which is the best Christmas market in Germany?

How busy is the Cologne Christmas market?

The Cologne Christmas markets are very busy. So busy that you'll be very close to lots of other people so keep your belongings safe.

Cologne's Christmas Markets: What You Need to Know

Do I need cash for Cologne Christmas markets?

Each individual vendor makes that decision. Some are cash only. Some are card only. Most take both.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in the world?

Viennese Christmas Market, Vienna (Austria): The popular Viennese Christmas Market in front of Vienna City Hall is as picturesque as the Austrian capital city itself.

Which city has the best Christmas market in Europe?

Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christmas market is considered one of the best because it is one of the oldest and most traditional markets in Germany. Nuremberg is nicknamed “the little city of wood and cloth,” and the gifts you will find here explain why.

What is the most famous Christmas shop in Germany?

Käthe Wohlfahrt - the world famous Christmas Store. Käthe Wohlfahrt and Nuremberg have had a close relationship for many years. In 1999, the famous Christmas specialist retailer opened a shop at Königsstraße 8 between St. Lorenz Church and Hauptmarkt, which is open all year round.

Is Cologne a walkable city?

First off, Cologne is uniquely designed and walkable, so you can explore the city at your own pace either on foot or by bike. Cologne also has an extensive public transport network, making public transportation easy and affordable.

How long to spend in Cologne Christmas markets?

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.

Where to stay for Cologne Christmas market?

Is Cologne expensive to visit?

How much should I budget per day for a trip to Cologne? Eating street food for lunch, visiting a brewhouse for dinner, and sharing a double room (with the odd museum thrown into the mix), you can comfortably get by in Cologne for €75 a day.

How big is the Cologne Christmas market?

Cologne has a variety of Christmas markets, as befits its status as the fourth largest city in Germany. The most popular and best-known is in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral - the organisers expect over 4 million visitors each year to the 150 stands in the Roncalliplatz.

What is the weather like in Cologne Christmas market?

Western and central cities, such as Frankfurt and Cologne, generally experience highs between 38°F and 43°F (3°C and 6°C) and overnight lows of about 30°F to 35°F (–1°C to 2°C).

Which German Christmas market should I go to?

The Nuremberg Christmas markets are world famous and among the most traditional Christmas markets in Germany. Because of this, they are regarded by some as being the best Christmas markets in the country.

Where is the cheapest European Christmas market?

What is the closest European Christmas market to the UK?

Brussels Christmas market is voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and is a great market for a family break or weekend shopping trip at only 1 hour 53 minutes from London by Eurostar.

Does Cologne, Germany have a good Christmas market?

As the fourth largest city in Germany, Cologne (Köln) has no shortage of Christmas Markets or festive cheer. In fact, Cologne has over 7 Christmas markets scattered throughout the city, meaning you could spend an entire day or weekend exploring the Christmas markets in Cologne.

Are Christmas markets in Germany cash only?

Germany is a country that loves cold, hard cash so don't be surprised if small stallholders refuse to take cards. One good way to stick to your budget is by taking cash and only spending what you have. You could budget around €30 to €50 for each market, which should be enough to buy drinks, bratwurst and other snacks.

What to wear to a German Christmas market?

What is the most charming Christmas market in Europe?

Gdańsk's Christmas Market is awarded the title of European Best Christmas Market 2025 with +90,000 votes! As night descends, the heart of Gdańsk, Poland, comes alive with illuminations, Christmas melodies, and the joyful sounds of children, marking the eagerly awaited Gdańsk Christmas Fair.

What is the Capital of Christmas markets?

Strasbourg, Capital of Christmas.

What is Germany's biggest Christmas market?

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas Markets in the world.