Christmas markets in Cologne

For sheer Christmas magic, head to The House Elves’ Winter Fairytale Christmas Market (Heinzels Wintermärchen), the angel-themed Markt der Engel to see the hundreds of brightly lit stars suspended above you, guaranteed to make you feel as if you’d wandered into the milky way.

As well as stands selling gifts and delicious, fragrant-smelling foods, you can also try your hand at ice-skating on the fabulous outdoor rink on Heumarkt or listen to live music performed on the stage at Heimat der Heinzel.

The Nicholas’s Village Christmas Market located in Rudolfplatz, is one of our favourite Cologne Christmas markets. This winter wonderland is perfectly designed for family.

Children will love the half-timber houses, life-sized crib, candyfloss sellers and backdrop of Hahnen gate, the 13th century gate that used to be part of the city walls in medieval times.

Most travellers will visit the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom) since it’s located in the shadow of the city’s famous Cathedral.

It’s an amazing opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the Cologne Cathedral, have a wander around the stalls and enjoy a bit of history.

If you would rather avoid the tourist crowds, the Stadtgarten Christmas market is a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the main markets.

Located under the trees of a city park and with easy access via the U-Bahn, this Cologne Christmas market is geared towards local consumers more than tourists. It's a great place to shop for handmade souvenirs with 80 weekly changing exhibitors showing selected articles from art to fashion to jewellery.