What to do in Cologne at Christmas?

Visiting Cologne at Christmas (late Nov–Dec 23) centers on its famous themed markets, notably at the Cathedral, the Heinzels Winter Fairytale ice rink in the Old Town, and the Harbour Market by the Chocolate Museum. Enjoy Glühwein, festive treats, and a Ferris wheel ride at the Rhine.

Is Cologne worth visiting at Christmas?

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.

What to do on Christmas in Cologne?

Christmas in Cologne

Locals and visitors like yourself are invited to come to the Christmas Circus, the China Lights at the Zoo, Advent concerts and one of the many Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. In contrast to many other German cities, Cologne opened its first Christmas market rather late, in 1820.

Does it snow in Cologne at Christmas?

Possibly. There's a chance of snow during December but not as much as you might think. Check the local forecast before you leave home so that you can pack appropriate footwear and clothing.

Can you walk to all the Christmas markets in Cologne?

The Christmas markets in Cologne are centralized, meaning you can easily walk from one market to the next.

Planning your Christmas Market trip to COLOGNE? START HERE

What is the most Christmassy town in Germany?

While many German towns are festive, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is widely considered Germany's ultimate Christmas Town because it feels like a year-round fairytale, complete with medieval walls, cobblestone streets, numerous Christmas shops, and the famous year-round Christmas Museum (Käthe Wohlfahrt) and Reiterlesmarkt. Other top contenders include Dresden for its historic Striezelmarkt and multiple markets, and Quedlinburg for its enchanting medieval atmosphere and Advent calendar.
 

How many days do you need in Cologne at Christmas?

It's possible to experience all of Cologne's Christmas markets in two full days, but if you want a more relaxed pace, as well as time for other sightseeing, I suggest three days in Cologne. A long ice rink lines Heinzels Winter Fairytale.

What is the prettiest Christmas market in Germany?

Christmas markets in Germany offer a unique opportunity to experience German culture and tradition.

• The most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. ...
• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (Nuremberg) ...
• Dresden Striezelmarkt (Dresden) ...
• Lübeck Christmas Market (Lübeck) ...
• Cologne Christmas Market at the Cathedral (Cologne)

Where is best to stay in Cologne for Christmas markets?

• Hyatt Regency Cologne. ...
• Courtyard by Marriott Cologne. ...
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom. ...
• NH Collection Köln Mediapark. ...
• Hotel Santo. ...
• Wasserturm Hotel Cologne. ...
• Lindner Hotel Dom Residence. ...
• Cologne Marriott Hotel. BEST FOR: A Marriott branded stay in modern and spacious rooms.

What do Germans do on the 25th and 26th of December?

On December 25th (First Christmas Day) and 26th (Second Christmas Day, Zweiter Weihnachtstag), Germans enjoy official public holidays focused on quiet family time, large festive meals with traditional foods like roast goose or carp, exchanging gifts (which often happens on Christmas Eve), and visiting relatives, with most shops remaining closed as the celebration continues after the main gift-giving on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend).
 

Do I need cash for Cologne Christmas markets?

Germany has taken card payments to heart but, as elsewhere, Christmas Markets remain happy with notes and coins, especially for small transactions. Cologne hosts at least seven major markets, from the spectacular Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom beneath its Gothic cathedral, to the smaller Harbour Market by the Rhine.

Is 2 days enough in Cologne?

Yes, two days is generally enough time to see Cologne's main sights like the Cathedral, Old Town, and Rhine riverfront, and get a feel for its vibrant culture, thanks to its compact size and good transport. It's perfect for a short city break, allowing you to hit the highlights at a leisurely pace, but a longer stay might be better if you want to delve deeper into museums or take day trips. 

Where to spend xmas in Germany?

The Best Places to Spend Christmas in Germany

• Nuremberg. First on our list of the best places to spend Christmas in Germany is Nuremberg. ...
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Experience the magic of a medieval Christmas in Germany by staying in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ...
• Cologne. ...
• Dresden. ...
• Munich. ...
• Düsseldorf. ...
• Stuttgart. ...
• Breitnau.

Which is nicer, Hamburg or Cologne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cologne than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Cologne, Cologne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cologne is very popular for its historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Hamburg attracts visitors for its music.

What is the most Christmassy city in Germany?

While many German towns are festive, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is widely considered Germany's ultimate Christmas Town because it feels like a year-round fairytale, complete with medieval walls, cobblestone streets, numerous Christmas shops, and the famous year-round Christmas Museum (Käthe Wohlfahrt) and Reiterlesmarkt. Other top contenders include Dresden for its historic Striezelmarkt and multiple markets, and Quedlinburg for its enchanting medieval atmosphere and Advent calendar.
 

Where do celebrities stay in Cologne?

Cologne

• Hotel Santo. Celebrities that have stayed here. Katy Perry. ...
• Hotel Chelsea. Celebrities that have stayed here. Paul Kelly. ...
• Hyatt Regency Cologne. Germany. ...
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst. Germany. ...
• Hotel Stadtpalais. Germany. ...
• Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery by Sofitel. Germany. ...
• Savoy Hotel Cologne. Germany. ...
• Hotel Viktoria. Germany.

Is Cologne Christmas Market too busy?

If you go on weekends and Friday then its really busy there. There's more than one market in Cologne.... there's at least 5 around the city. They are very busy at the weekend.

Is Nuremberg or Cologne Christmas market better?

Nuremberg will always be the best Christmas market in Germany (and the world) Summer Rylander has lived in Nuremberg since 2015 and thinks that prune men are really what make her hometown's market special.

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.

Where is the most magical Christmas market?

• 44 Wildly Magical Christmas Markets to Visit in Europe (Ranked!) Last Updated: October 28, 2025. ...
• London, England. OOH. ...
• Budapest, Hungary* ...
• Düsseldorf, Germany. ...
• Stuttgart, Germany. ...
• Paris, France. ...
• Winchester, England. ...
• Essen, Germany.

Do you need cash at Cologne Christmas markets?

Money Matters at the Cologne Christmas Markets

You'll need Euros when you visit Cologne. If you're wondering if you should bring cash or card to the Christmas markets, the answer is yes – both! Some vendors take cards, but you'll almost always need cash for smaller purchases (less than $20).

What to wear in Cologne in December?

Warmth is a big factor for winter in Cologne and you will need to ensure that you layer. Accessories like gloves, beanies or other warm snow hats, and scarves will all give you added warmth from the elements, covering your ears, chest, and fingers is important as you lose heat quickly from your extremities.

Where to stay in Cologne during Christmas?

Most booked hotels

• Maritim Hotel Köln. Hotel in Altstadt-Nord, Cologne. ...
• Eden Hotel Früh am Dom. ...
• Hilton Cologne. ...
• Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln. ...
• CityClass Hotel am Dom. ...
• Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery. ...
• Hotel Königshof The Arthouse. ...
• Boutique 003 Köln City am Dom, Trademark Collection by Wyndham.