A Complete Guide to Cologne Christmas Market 2025

Jetting off to Cologne, Germany, in December, for that irresistible Christmas market trip? Cologne Christmas Market (Köln Christmas Market) is the perfect spot to soak up the magical atmosphere, marvel at the city sparkling all season long, grab some unique gifts for yourself and your loved ones, and binge on gingerbread and steaming glühwein to warm the frostiest Christmas chills.

Cologne Christmas Market 2025 features all the usual suspects: a wealth of festive market stalls, live music, fairground rides, various themed exhibitions and workshops, spectacular ice rinks, and even the chance to meet magical angels, gnomes, and none other than Santa Claus.

With different Christmas markets on both sides of the Rhine, offering holiday gifts, souvenirs, cold and warm drinks, gourmet food, and some of the most delicious festive patisserie, the appeal of Cologne Christmas Market is hard to beat. So grab your favourite backpack and mittens and enjoy some of our picks of the best Christmas markets Cologne has to offer this festive season, including their unique themes, activities, dates, opening hours, and more.

Arriving at Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)?

Give a stylish and festive start to your Christmas getaway by booking a private Kiwitaxi transfer and enjoy a seamless ride straight to your base in the city. Kiwitaxi offers a reliable meet-and-greet service with real-time tracking and a relaxed ride customized to your specific travel needs, so you can get started on exploring the magical Cologne Christmas Market 2025 right away.

Cologne, Germany, Christmas Market has it all: a wealth of Christmas markets scattered throughout the city, dazzling with twinkling Christmas trees and decorations, live performances by world-class artists and puppet shows, ice rinks and charming stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, tempting treats, and the irresistible mulled wine to boot.

There’s never a dull moment at Cologne Christmas Market: catch the lively performances and workshops, watch firework displays and visual shows projected on festive facades and cathedrals, enjoy German nibbles and tipple and sip on warm glühwein.

Wondering about the Cologne Christmas Market location?

Many of the major Cologne, Germany, Xmas markets are tucked in the city center and the Old Town (Altstadt), just a short stroll apart, making it possible to discover them in a single day. Just wander from market to market to soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy each one’s unique theme. Looking at the Koln Christmas Market map, you’ll discover that others like the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market (Hafen Weihnachtsmarkt) or the Stadtgarten Christmas Market are a bit more spread out. While they’re walkable, the Christmas Market Express offers a charming way to explore the markets at your own pace. Simply hop on the festive mini-train taking you from one Cologne Xmas market to the next in a relaxed and merry atmosphere.

Bonus-tips: Follow the Nativity Scene Trail (Krippenweg)—a magical journey through the city’s most enchanting nativity displays. Soak up the true spirit of Christmas, with over 100 extraordinary scenes tucked into churches, shop windows, and public spaces. Don’t miss the charming, self-designed scenes at Village of St. Nicholas Christmas Market, set against the medieval Hahnen city gate.

The IceBar Cologne, one of the city’s most unique attractions, tucked in the center of Cologne at Im Klapperhof 50, is also unmissable. Enjoy a truly frosty yet unforgettable adventure in an entire room made of ice, including the walls, furniture, and even the glasses. While the temperature inside is kept at a frigid -18°C (-0.4°F), fret not! Thermal jackets, gloves, and a hat will help you stay cozy. Get your first complimentary drink at the warm Chalet reception, before venturing into the sub-zero IceBar (Coolzone). Marvel at intricate ice sculptures of Cologne landmarks like the Cathedral and the 1. FC Köln mascot while sipping your drinks in ice glasses.

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom) tucked on Roncalliplatz is a picturesque Christmas market right below the Gothic spires of the spectacular Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom). Prep your instagram with the majestic Cologne Cathedral providing a truly impressive backdrop for the magical market filled with twinkling lights, wooden chalets, and breathtaking festive decorations.

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is famous for the soaring 25-meter Nordmann fir Christmas tree glowing under thousands of twinkling lights and crowned with a dazzling star perfectly capturing the market’s enchanting “Star Magic” theme. Stroll along the 160 stalls piled high with unique ornaments, hand-carved nativity scenes, custom jewelry, and hand-stamped copper votive lights, sampling traditional pretzel and bratwurst along with glüwein. Catch numerous festive performances, shows, and special events like “Loss mer singe” sing-alongs, and immerse yourself in the market’s magical atmosphere. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure not to miss the special kids’ program with Punch and Judy shows, face painting, and various games, running from Tuesday to Thursday.

Bonus-tips: Don’t miss the Shrine of the Three Kings (Shrine of the Magi), traditionally believed to contain the bones of the Biblical Magi (the Three Wise Men). Located behind the high altar of the Kölner Dom, it’s considered one of the most important reliquaries. Collect the Glühwein Mug: Collect a unique souvenir, the Glühwein mug (by paying a deposit, or Pfand, and keeping the mug instead of returning it for the refund).

Cologne Christmas Market dates for the Cathedral Market: From November 17 to December 23, 2025.

Cologne Christmas Market hours for the Cathedral Market: From Sunday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 9 PM Thursday & Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM Saturday – 10 AM to 10 PM

Address: Roncalliplatz 50667 Köln

Heinzels Winter Fairytale Christmas Market (Heinzels Wintermärchenis) is a whimsical wonderland that comes alive thanks to the Heinzelmännchen, Cologne’s mythical house gnomes. Legend says, gnomes once used to secretly help Cologne’s citizens, carpenters, bakers, butchers, coopers, and tailors, with crafts and chores. Since the gnomes disappeared because of the tailor’s wife’s curiosity, they only return to Cologne once a year to transform Old Town into the Gnome Market Cologne, a magical winter wonderland.

You’ll see hidden gnomes everywhere in the market, perched on rooftops, peeking from window displays, and nestled between garlands and timber stalls. The entire market is decked out with detailed gnome-themed decorations, with rustic wooden stalls and magical lighting, all referencing the legend of the Heinzelmännchen. Go for scavenger hunts and shop for a charming gnome to take home with you. Catch Hänneschen Theatre puppet shows and greet its charming life-size puppets wandering through the market.

End the year with a bang: from riding the antique Ferris wheel and the historic carousel to joining spectacular ice dances and sing-alongs. Go ice-skating at Heumarkt’s giant spectacular ice rink with the equestrian statue in the center of the square or join the Bavarian Curling team. Kids can attend numerous workshops at the Alter Markt’s Artisan Alley (Handwerkergasse), from making endless festive candies and cookies to forging a horseshoe bearing their name, sending a letter to Santa, and much more.

For a Christmas shopping spree, stroll along the festive stalls and bag some gems from local artists and craftsmen, such as homemade gingerbread, nativity woodworks, handpainted ceramics, and handcrafted wreaths, to name a few. To refuel, stop by the Food and Snacks Alley (Futter- und Naschgasse) and nibble on candied nuts and chestnuts, strudels, waffles, apple pancakes, flammlachs and handbrot, all paired with hot glühwein to ward off cold.

Cologne Christmas Market dates for the Heinzels Winter Fairytale: From November 24 to December 23, 2025. Heumarkt, including the ice rink, is open until January 04, 2026 (closed: November 24, December 24 & 25, 2025).

Cologne Christmas Market hours for the Heinzels Winter Fairytale: Daily – 11 AM to 10 PM.

Address: Alter Markt und Heumarkt, 50667 Köln

Angel Market Cologne is set in the stylish Neumarkt, right in the center of Cologne, surrounded by the iconic shopping streets of Schildergasse, Mittelstraße, and Ehrenstraße. It’s everything we love about Christmas! Unique and stylish festive shopping? Yes please. On the menu: Original handicrafts, exclusive fashion jewelry, personalized wooden decorations, engraved glass ornaments, and handcrafted ceramic gifts, you name it!

Just pop into Angel Market Cologne for a fun and easy Christmas stocking filling, while enjoying all the gourmet festive dishes, tempting treats, and steaming glühwein. Sip signature cocktails for a catch up with old friends and mingle your way into new friendships.

Stroll along the winding maze of festive stalls, twinkly lights, and dazzling decorations and greet the mythical creatures gliding past the stilts, from enchanting angels to Elsa from the Frozen, the ethereal Winter Queen accompanied by her majestic live eagle owl and the whimsical little unicorn trotting by her side, to name a few.

Sing along with Christmas choirs and join one of the numerous festive workshops for a truly magical experience. Cologne Christmas Market dates for the Angel’s market: From November 17 to December 23, 2025.

Cologne Christmas Market hours for the Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral: From Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM

From Friday to Saturday– 11 AM to 10 PM

Address: Neumarkt, 50667 Köln

Tucked beside the historic Hahnentorburg at Rudolfplatz, Nikolausdorf (Saint Nicholas Village) is among the best Christmas markets, Cologne to visit with kids. Step into the snow-dusted, half-timbered village dedicated to Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus). Wander across the festively decorated stalls twinkling with soft golden lights and greet Saint Nicholas roaming the market’s magical streets.

Step inside Santa’s very own charming cottage for hands-on fun, from free creative workshops to interactive crafting sessions where you can create extraordinary handmade keepsakes. And yes, you can take them home!

Don’t miss the market’s beloved hand puppet NIKO and Santa Claus dropping by in person to greet visitors. And grab an iconic boot-shaped Glühwein mug (a nod to the traditional Saint Nicholas’ boot).

Cologne Christmas Market dates for Nikolausdorf: From November 17 to December 23, 2025.

Cologne Christmas Market hours for Nikolausdorf: From Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM Friday& Saturday– 11 AM to 10 PM

Address: Rudolfplatz, 50674 Köln

Fill your Christmas holiday with a unique maritime theme at the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market (Kölner Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt). Tucked in a picturesque setting right on the banks of the Rhine River, next to the famous Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum), the market glows against the backdrop of the Rheinauhafen district, framed by the historic Malakoff Tower and shimmering waterside reflections.

Stroll along the waterside by night, and marvel at the market’s sail-like, snow-white pagoda tents glowing against the starry sky. It’s all aboard the 15-meter wooden three-mast boat setting sail on a glühwein-fuelled voyage! The boat is transformed into a beverage stand serving glühwein straight from its “hull”, while the authentic Harbour Lighthouse-Pub offers traditional Feuerzangenbowle and hot gin cider.

The Harbour Christmas Market promises singing sea shanties and traditional Christmas songs, dancing, and riding the soaring 48-meter Ferris wheel for stunning views of the illuminated Christmas market, the Rhine River, and the Cologne skyline.

Expect pirate performances like the “Rhine Pirates” with sailor’s yarns and pirate juggling, some play boats for the little ones, and numerous candy or chocolate making kids’ workshops at the Chocolate Museum and beyond. But also maritime souvenirs, shedloads of glühwein, Flammlachs and other seafood specialties, and tasty treats. Pro-tip: After Christmas, the market is transformed into a New Year’s market until the beginning of January.

Cologne Christmas Market dates for Harbour Market: From November 14 to December 23, 2025.

Cologne Christmas Market hours for Harbour Market: From Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM Friday & Saturday– 11 AM to 10 PM

Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Koln

This winter’s festive fun gets underway this season, with Stadtgarten Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten), an enchanted forest-like spot (uh HUH) in the grounds of the Stadtgarten (City Garden), Cologne’s oldest park. Tucked on the edge of the trendy Belgian Quarter, beneath the gnarled trees and sparkling lights, it’s the perfect spot for meeting locals or relaxing in an authentic atmosphere.

Here you’ll find over sixty rotating exhibitions throughout the festive season, from unique handicrafts and lovingly crafted designs to fashion, jewelry, ceramics, and artworks by local artists. Foodie highlights from local producers include artisanal gin, honey, and gourmet treats, with a distinctly regional flavor. Sample the delicious food, from Zimtschnecken (Cinnamon Rolls) to Alsatian Tarte Flambée (Flammkuchen) and other delicacies, and get a taste of the iconic Winzer-Glühwein, made from organic grapes. Plus, the numerous workshops, live performances, and shows will keep kids entertained.

Cologne Christmas Market dates for Stadtgarten Market: From November 14 to December 23, 2025.

Cologne Christmas Market hours for Stadtgarten Market: From Monday to Friday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM Saturday & Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM

Address: Venloer Str. 40, 50672 Köln

What are Cologne, Germany, Christmas Market dates?

Cologne Christmas Market 2025 is expected to run from November 17 to December 23, 2025. But exact dates vary by location.

NOTE: On November 23, 2025, most Cologne, Germany, Xmas markets are closed due to a public holiday. What are Cologne Christmas Market hours in 2025? Typical hours are:

Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM NOTE: Hours vary by market.

Where is the Cologne Christmas Market?

Cologne Christmas Market is not just one location, but a collection of multiple themed markets scattered throughout the city. Each Cologne Christmas Market location varies, and all are within walking distance or a short ride on the city’s Christmas Market Express train. NOTE: Save the Koln Christmas Market map to plan your route between the main markets and attractions and find the best walking paths and nearby hotels, restaurants, and transport links.

Do you need Köln Christmas Market tickets or to pay entry?

No, all the major Christmas markets in Cologne have free entry. Visitors pay only for food, drinks, and purchases. Glühwein (mulled wine) usually costs between €4–6, plus a refundable mug deposit.

Cash or Card? Cash is highly recommended. While some larger stalls accept card payments, many smaller food and craft stalls are cash-only.

Where to stay in Cologne for Christmas Market?

The best area to stay for the Cologne Christmas Market 2025 is the Innenstadt (City Center). For first-time visitors, the Old Town near Cologne Cathedral offers the most central location with easy access to the Cologne Cathedral Market and Heinzel’s Winter Fairytale. Neumarkt is perfect for transport connections and a lively but less crowded atmosphere. Rudolfplatz is a great choice for families, close to the charming Nicholas Village market. Anywhere within the inner city ring is convenient as the markets are highly walkable or easily connected by the tram system.

Be sure to check our Colmar Christmas Markets Guide 2025 for even more Christmas inspiration!