Christmas markets in Cologne
Anticipation is the greatest joy of all! A visit to the Christmas market reduces the waiting time to Christmas every year. We buy gifts, warm ourselves up with mulled wine and enjoy the romantic and reflective flair. Cologne's most beautiful and well-known Christmas market takes place every year around the city's landmark, in front of the imposing backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral and is also situated right next to Le Mèridien Dom Hotel.
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Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral Musicians get passersby into the Christmas spirit on Roncalliplatz in front of the cathedral.There is a gigantic Christmas tree in the middle of the market, surrounded by festively decorated stalls. There is a large selection of Christmas treats, culinary delicacies from all over the world, as well as the ever-popular mulled wine and the Cologne Cathedral Spekulatius (gingery biscuits). When strolling through the Christmas market you also have the option of looking over the shoulder of craftspeople at work. Be inspired by the variety of arts and crafts and gift ideas on offer.Among the Christmas market classics is the stage programme, which takes place almost every day, is free of charge and rich in diversity. |
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Cologne Old Town Christmas market The favourite Christmas market of the local residents is just a few steps from the Cologne Cathedral and runs through the Old Town from Alter Markt to Heumarkt. Rustic huts line the small, winding lanes here. The history of tradition, which began here in 1820 with Cologne's first Christmas market, can still be experienced today. Craftspeople, merchants and vendors radiate a Christmassy atmosphere, reminding visitors of a long-forgotten time. The famous Cologne Heinzelmännchen elves ensure that the old traditions are maintained at the Christmas market and prevent all new kinds of wares. They keep constant and attentive watch over the Christmas goings-on from their hiding place. |
The history of the Christmas market:
Cologne's first Christmas market, Nicolaimarkt, was opened in 1820 in the Old Town, the home of the Heinzelmännchen elves. The legend of Cologne's Heinzelmännchen elves, who are said to have helped make the city wealthy, also originates from the 18th century. While the lazy craftspeople slept, the hard-working elves worked at night in their workshops in the guild district.
Fairytale Christmas Market at Rudolfplatz
26th November to 23rd December 2012
A Christmas market for the whole family. Animated figures, such as Snow White, Rumpelstiltskin or Mother Hulda lead you into another world and radiate a sprinkling of magic.
Harbour Christmas market
29th November to 23rd December 2012
The Harbour Christmas market takes place at Rheinau Harbour, directly by the water and next to the Chocolate Museum. In addition to the usual range of Christmas market goods, fish specialities and items with a maritime theme are on offer.
Floating Christmas Market
While drinking some mulled wine and eating traditional culinary delights on the panoramic deck, you can enjoy the unique view of the wintry Old Town and the cathedral - Cologne's landmark.