Visit the cathedral city of Cologne this Christmas and experience a traditional German festive atmosphere at any of the four major Christmas markets, which attract almost 2 million visitors every year! 

27 November - 23 December 2009

The four largest Christmas markets are located at Cologne Cathedral, on the Alter Markt, on the Neumarkt and on the Rudolfplatz. The market at Cologne Cathedral is particularly impressive against the backdrop of the Cathedral. 

The Christmas market on the Alter Markt takes place in front of the city hall. It has an especially idyllic atmosphere because of its half-timbered stalls. 

Cologne's oldest Christmas market is the market on the Neumarkt, in the shopping area against the backdrop of the Church St. Aposteln.

The market on the Rudolfplatz takes place in front of the Hahnentorburg. 

As well as the main markets, there is also the Medieval Christmas Market outside the Chocolate Museum and a floating Christmas Market on board the MS Wappen von Mainz which are well worth a visit.

As Christmas approaches there is plenty of entertainment and things to do through out Cologne, including a variety of Christmas concerts, Nativity scene displays and a huge temporary ice rink on Heumarkt.

*Christmas Market dates are provided by the Tourist Board, and may be subject to change.