The vibrant carnival city on the River Rhine is never one to miss an opportunity for a celebration. The twin spires of the majestic Gothic Cathedral tower over the heart of the charming Old Town with its many colourful Christmas markets. Cologne's enticing markets with their wonderfully decorated stalls create a festive atmosphere which will be unforgettable to its visitors.
The Cathedral Christmas market is an ideal starting point to explore Cologne during the festive season. More than one hundred wooden stalls can be found in the shadow of Cologne's imposing landmark, the dramatically illuminated Gothic Cathedral. Here, you will find all kinds of decorative ornaments, wood carvings and other traditional Christmas gifts. No wonder this popular market attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year.
Cologne's oldest and probably liveliest market is on 'Neumarkt' square in the city's main shopping district. Nearby in the Old Town, you will find the 'Alter Markt' Christmas market situated in front of the narrow-gabled houses of the Old Town Hall. This part of the city is close to the River Rhine and with its many bars and cafés, this place is the perfect choice to rest after an eventful day of shopping and to enjoy a glass of tasty mulled wine.
Alongside Cologne's Old Quarter, three very neat and unconventional Christmas markets can be found; a floating market is held on board the elegant cruise ship 'MS Wappen von Mainz', a traditional medieval market and the new yuletide highlight, the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market right in front of Cologne's famous Chocolate Museum. With about 80 white marquee pagoda tents and roof peaks appearing like ship sails, culinary delicacies and pirate shows - all creating an elegant nautical atmosphere - this market is definitely worth a visit!
26 November 2012 - 23 December 2012
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