Cologne Christmas Market (Map + Dates 2023)

The Christmas markets are a beloved tradition in Germany dating back centuries ago. Festive decorations, sparkling lights, stalls packed with culinary delights and mulled wine – the Germans just know how to celebrate Christmas!

The first Christmas market in Cologne (called Nikolaimarkt) opened in 1820 at Alter Markt. It quickly turned into a favourite tradition during the festive season. In the late 20th century, several new themed markets appeared all over the city.

Today, Cologne features one of the best Christmas markets not only in Germany but in Europe as well! So, If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas market experience in Germany, the city definitely should be on your list.

In this Cologne Christmas market guide, I’ll share all you have to know to experience the best of the city. From opening dates and locations of the markets to popular Christmas activities and the best hotels to stay in – everything you need to plan the perfect holiday vacation.

Cologne features 8 large Christmas markets, all located in the city centre. Each market is devoted to a different theme and has a unique vibe and atmosphere. From angel and harbour-themed markets to a gnome village, each of them is well worth a visit.

The best Christmas markets in Cologne are located at the Cathedral, Alter Markt, Heumarkt and Neumarkt. All markets are easily accessible on foot, only the one in the Stadtgarten is a little bit further out from the Old Town.

Cologne Christmas markets 2023

• Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
• Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt
• Heinzels Wintermärchen at Alter Markt
• Angels’ Christmas Market
• Nicholas’ Village Christmas Market
• Harbour Christmas Market
• Stadtgarten Christmas Market
• Heavenue Market

You can find a map with their exact locations at the end of the article.

When does the Cologne Christmas market start?

In general, the Christmas markets in Cologne open on 21 November and continue till 23 December. The stalls are open daily between 11:00 AM and 09:00 PM.

Are the Christmas markets open on Sunday?
Yes, all markets are open on Sunday with extended working hours in the evenings.

Is there any market open after Christmas?
Yes, the Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt and the Harbour Christmas Market continue till 8 January. However, both of them are closed on 24 and 25 December.

Cologne Christmas market dates 2023

From 21 November to 23 December
Daily from 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
(please note that the official dates for 2023 are not yet announced)

For more details check each market’s opening times (below in the post).

Cologne has 8 Christmas markets and almost all of them are worth a visit if you have enough time. Still, there are 4 which definitely should be on your list. Continue reading to find out which are the best Christmas markets in Cologne and which ones you can skip.

To discover the best of the markets and enjoy some local beer, take this Kölsch Beer and Christmas Market Tour. You’ll visit some of the city’s popular brewhouses, learn about the famous Kölsch beer and enjoy a mulled wine at the markets.

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom) is the city’s most beautiful market. Set at the backdrop of the impressive Gothic cathedral, this market features a giant fir tree with a blanket of 50,000 lights emerging from its top. It’s pure magic in the evenings when everything is lit up.

150 wooden stalls encircle the fir tree, creating a maze full of delicious treats, drinks and beautiful Christmas decorations. In its centre, you’ll find a stage, where you can catch over 100 festive performances and live music every evening.

Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom Opening times
From 17 November to 23 December
From Sunday to Wednesday – 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
From Thursday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Address: Roncalliplatz 1, 50667 Köln
koelnerweihnachtsmarkt.com

Heinzels Winter Fairytale (Heinzels Wintermärchen) is the city’s largest and most magical market. Devoted to the legendary house elves (Heinzelmännchen), this market features a fairytale theme with richly decorated wooden stalls.

According to the legend, Heinzelmännchen were house gnomes, who helped the citizens of Cologne with the housework at night when everybody was asleep. Unfortunately, one day a tailor’s wife decided that she had to see the creatures. She threw peas onto the floor of the workshop so that when the house elves come, they would slip and fall. Her actions had disastrous consequences. The gnomes got angry, disappeared and had never returned since that day.

Luckily, you still have a chance to see these little creatures, as you’ll find them all over the market. The gnome theme is reflected even in the mug designs!

The Heinzels Wintermärchen is split into two locations within a walking distance from each other – at Heumarkt and at Alter Markt (in front of the City Hall). Both markets are huge, featuring over 100 stalls, split into different themed laneways, so make sure to dedicate plenty of time to exploring. Also, they have different opening dates, so I decided to list them separately in the blog post.

At the Heinzels Wintermärchen Heumarkt, you’ll find a 2,400 square metres open ice rink and curling. Also, this is the place to go for some delicious food, as at this market there are plenty of savoury and sweet options. And to escape the cold, just head to any of the cosy wooden chalets for some mulled wine!

Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt Opening times
From 21 November to 8 January
24 and 25 December – Closed
Daily – from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Address: Heumarkt
heinzels-wintermaerchen.de

The two sections of Heinzels Wintermärchen (at Heumarkt and at Alter Markt) are connected with the so-called Antique Alley. You’ll find a variety of antiques here such as jewellery, books, Christmas decorations, etc.

Heinzels Wintermärchen at Alter Markt is more focused on handmade goods and decorations. There are a few food stalls, but if you’re hungry head over to the section at Heumarkt.

Heinzels Wintermärchen at Alter Markt Opening times
From 21 November to 23 December
Daily – from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Address: Alter Markt

Located in the heart of the shopping district, Angels’ Christmas Market (Markt der Engel) is the city’s oldest Christmas market. And the most romantic one in my opinion!

The market features an angel theme with white rustic stalls and illuminated stars hanging from the trees. It’s truly magical in the evenings!

As it comes to food, Angels’ Christmas Market is one of the best places to enjoy a savoury or sweet snack. Also, only at this market, I managed to find some delicious gingerbread cookies (but more on this later in the post).

Markt der Engel Opening times
From 17 November to 23 December
From Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Fridays and Saturdays – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Address: Neumarkt, 50667 Köln
markt-der-engel.de

If you have enough time, I’d suggest you take a look at these four Christmas markets below. They may not be the biggest or the most magical ones in Cologne, but still have plenty of charm and a festive atmosphere.

Nicholas’ Village Christmas Market (Nikolausdorf) is situated in the backdrop of the medieval Hahentorburg, one of the city’s last remaining city gates. Its charming half-timber houses are decorated with sparkling lights and plenty of red and green. Santa and reindeer displays add to the Christmas atmosphere.

The market is smaller in size and family oriented. Santa Claus visits Nikolausdorf every day between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM.

Nikolausdorf Opening times
From 17 November to 23 December
From Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Fridays – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Saturdays – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Address: Rudolfplatz, 50674 Köln
nikolausdorf.com

Located along the banks of the Rhine river, right in front of the Chocolate museum, is the Harbour Christmas market (Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt). The marine theme is reflected in the decoration and the products in the market. The 70 snow-white pagoda tents with pointed roofs offer delicious fish specialities and drinks.

Don’t miss the sea shanties, pirates’ shows, the giant Ferris wheel and the wooden three-mast boat (15m in length), from where you can buy mulled wine. And in case you’re feeling too cold, just head to the shop at the Chocolate museum!

Harbour Christmas Market Opening times
From 18 November to 23 December
Daily – from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
From 26 December to 8 January, the market turns into a New Years Market with food and drinks in front of the Ferris wheel
Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Köln
hafen-weihnachtsmarkt.de

Stadtgarten Christmas Market is located in the city garden, on the edge of the city centre. This is a little bit far away from the other markets and it’s not accessible on foot from the Old Town.

The market is pretty small and features a more local vibe. There are more than 80 exhibitors, who change weekly, offering handicrafts and locally made products.

Stadtgarten Christmas Market Opening times
From 17 November to 23 December
From Monday to Friday – 04:00 PM to 09:30 PM
Saturday and Sundays – 12:00 PM to 09:30 PM
Address: Stadtgarten, Venloerstrasse 40, 50672 Köln
weihnachtsmarkt-stadtgarten.de

Heavenue Market is the only gay Christmas market in Cologne. With its pink stalls, decorated with glittering clouds, LED lights and snow-white garlands, this market is a modern twist on the traditional Christmas market.

The place is a hot spot for music and dancing, featuring countless drag performances and spectacular light shows. The best time to visit – after dark!

Heavenue Market Opening times
From 17 November to 23 December
From Monday to Thursday – 04:00 PM to 10:00 PM
From Friday to Sunday – 02:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Address: Rudolfplatz, 50674 Köln
heavenue.de

If you’re visiting Cologne for the Christmas markets, choose a central location, so you can easily walk to most of the markets. Usually, it is very cold in December, so having a market at your doorstep where you can finish the day with a glass of mulled wine, is a great advantage.

The best place to stay in Cologne for the Christmas market is the Old Town (Altstadt). There are 3 big markets in the area, plus you’ll be a 10min walk from Markt der Engel at Neumarkt.

Find more information and recommendations in my guide to where to stay in Cologne, Germany.

Perfect location, right between the market at the Dom and Heinzels Wintermärchen at Alter Markt. Rooms are comfy and offer nice views of the cathedral. Plenty of restaurants at your doorstep.
Why book – next to Kölner Dom and the train station, delicious breakfast with lots of choices

Overlooking the cathedral, Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom is the best 5-stars hotel to stay in the city. Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom, Heinzels Wintermärchen and the Christmas Market Express stop are just a 5min walk away.
Why book – location next to the cathedral, piano bar, French and Asian restaurants, wellness centre

Take this Winter Cruise with live music and Glühwein and enjoy the beautifully decorated city’s skyline during the Christmas season. You’ll see some of the most iconic sites like the Cologne Cathedral, Great St. Martin Church and Rheinau Harbour.

You can’t visit Cologne and not taste the famous local Kölsch beer. Take this Brewery Tour with tastings and learn about the local brewing culture. You’ll visit some iconic breweries such as the 700 years old Brauhaus Sion or Früh am Dom, the city’s largest brewery.

For some winter activities, head to Heinzels Wintermärchen Heumarkt. Here, besides curling, you’ll find a 2,400 square metres open ice rink. Set along the magical market, this ice rink is more than 100m long!

Cologne is a very walkable city, but if your feet start to ache or it’s too cold, there is a Christmas train you can hop on. The train runs between the four main markets around the city (the Dom, Heinzels Wintermärchen, Harbour and Angels’ market) every 15min. You can find the full Christmas train schedule here.

Christmas pyramid is a popular thing in Germany and you’ll see them all over the Christmas markets. It is supposed that the Christmas pyramid is a predecessor of the Christmas tree.

Southeast of the main market at the Dom, you’ll find a small Advent Village with a huge Christmas pyramid! Stop for a glass of mulled wine and enjoy the festive decoration.

Address: Am Hof 34-46, 50667 Köln

One of the best things about visiting a Christmas market is trying all the delicious food! You’ll find countless savoury and sweet food options, ranging from grilled sausages and salmon to potato pancakes and gingerbread cookies. There is something for everyone’s taste.

Bratwurst

While exploring the markets, you’ll come across plenty of stalls selling wurst (sausages). There are all kinds of sausages, ranging from standard to bio and even vegan. They are usually served in a bun with mustard and ketchup and you can buy French fries additionally.

You can’t make it all the way to Germany and not taste this traditional meal!

Flammlachs

Flammlachs is one of my favourite Christmas market foods. And if you like fish, don’t miss these fillets of salmon roasted over an open flame on wooden boards. Served in a bun with a cabbage salad, it’s the ultimate treat!

My tip: taste the Flammlachs at Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt, they serve it with a Remoulade sauce there.

Lachsschinken

This delicious baked ham comes in a bun with cabbage salad.

My tip: taste the Lachsschinken at Angels’ Market.

Reibekuchen

Reibekuchen is a great vegetarian Christmas food option. These fried potato cakes are made from grated potato, egg, and onion and served with apple sauce.

Handbrot mit Käse

This is bread stuffed with cheese and ham (or mushrooms if you prefer the vegetarian version) and topped with sour cream.

My tip: the Handbrot at Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt was the most delicious.

Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen is a traditional gingerbread cookie. I’d recommend you skip the richly decorated heart-shaped Lebkuchen (not very tasty) and opt for the plain ones.

My tip: buy Lebkuchen from Angels’ Market, you’ll find more variety here.

Glühwein

Glühwein is a spiced hot wine, usually made with red, but you can also find white or even a rosé wine. It can be customized with an additional shot of Amaretto (a sweet Italian liqueur) or rum.

Note, that when you buy a glühwein you have to pay a deposit for the mug (usually between €2 and €4). When you return the mug, you’ll get your deposit back. You can keep the mug as a souvenir or return it, it’s up to you. Keep in mind that every market has its own mug design, so try the wine at several places to choose the best one!

My tip: If you like bitter almonds, order white mulled wine with a shot of Amaretto.

Cologne Central train station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) is located right next to the Old Town and the cathedral. From here it’s just a short walk to the main Christmas markets.

Check timetables and book tickets online at Deutsche Bahn official site.

Cologne has a Low Emission Zone, so you need an Umweltzone sticker. Parking on-street is expensive, so car parks or Park and Ride are better options (find more info about parking here).

If you’re visiting Cologne for a day, there is a good parking garage right next to the cathedral (Contipark Tiefgarage Am Dom), a great starting point for the markets.

The closest airport is Cologne-Bonn Airport, about 15 kilometres away from the city centre. The most convenient option to get there is by train – take the train directly from the airport and then get off at Köln Hauptbahnhof.

Find here a map with all the markets. The popular ones are marked in dark red, while the smaller – in light red.

Just 1h away by train, Aachen, the final resting place of Charlemagne, is a great option for a day trip. Located in the shadow of the city’s cathedral, Aachener Weihnachtsmarkt is one of the best Christmas markets nearby. It is much smaller than the one in Cologne but has a lot to offer – a medieval atmosphere, magical backdrops and one of the tastiest cookies in Germany – Aachener Printen.

Find out more (+ where to eat the best gingerbread cookies) in my Aachen Christmas Market guide.

Besides Aachen, there are good Christmas markets in Düsseldorf, Bonn and Essen, too. However in my opinion they are not a must-see, especially if you have limited time in Germany. I’d recommend visiting them only if you’re looking for markets off the beaten path with a local vibe.