There are up to seven Christmas markets in Cologne. The biggest are the markets held at the Cologne Cathedral, on the Alter Markt, on the Neumarkt and on the Rudolfsplatz. All of these have almost 2 million visitors annually.

The Christmas Market at the Cologne Cathedral is the most impressive one, because the church itself is great. There are over 160 festively designed wooden pavilions beneath the church and the biggest Christmas tree in Rhineland. There you can see working artisans, enjoy original mulled wine out of festively decorated Christmas mugs and taste several sweets and local delicacies.

The Christmas Market on the Alter Markt is held in the center of the Old Town (Altstadt), in front of the Old Cologne Town Hall, which is only 200 meters away from the Cathedral. During several years this market has attracted young and likeminded people to Cologne from all over the world. With narrow-gabled houses and half-timbered stalls, this market creates a very romantic and idyllic atmosphere. There are lots to do especially for children: a nostalgic carousel, a puppet theatre, a Santa Claus´ grotto and many toy stands. An old Cologne legend tells that the Heinzelmännchen gnomes are responsible for the Christmas splendor there. They observe carefully everything and prevent any mass made and modern goods from being sold.

The Neumarkt Christmas Market is the oldest in Cologne, and it is held amidst the St. Aposteln´s Church in the main shopping area of the city. The Angels Market glows pre-Christmas glory with fascinatingly designed chalets and unique Stars at night theme. Glamour and high-quality products will bewitch the visitors.

Hahnentorburg is one of Cologne´s three medieval gate houses. There is held the Christmas Market on the Rudolfplatz, which takes the visitors into the world of Grimm brothers´ fairytales. Large fairytale figures and festive lighting are real eye-catchers, especially for children.

The Cologne Harbour Christmas Market is held in the neighborhood of the Chocolate Museum. The environment is picturesque, because there are also located the medieval Malakoff-Tower and old bridge. There are about 80 white marquee pagoda tents and sailing ships, which highlight the nautical theme of this market. There are offered high-quality art products, culinary delights from all over the world and colorful program: pirates, shanties and Christmas stage performances.

Also worth of seeing is the Stadtgarten Christmas Market in the Cologne´s oldest park. The atmosphere is relaxed and village-like, and there you can make yourself familiar with the traditional local food and crafts and arts. The event is also a great choice for children and those young at heart. The whole city of Cologne is full of things to do and attractions during the Christmas time: for example, concerts, nativity scenes and large temporary ice rink on the Heumarkt.

The seventh Christmas Market in Cologne, Christmas Avenue, is an event for sexual minorities near the Bermuda Triangle on the Rudolfplatz.

More information:  http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk/cologne_christmas_market.php

Kuvat: CC-lisenssillä / Marco Verch,