Christmas markets in Cologne were great fun. There are multiple markets throughout the city, each with its own unique elements but all with the ubiquitous hot spiced wine, apfelschorle, and potato pancakes. Crafts varied from lace to nutcrackers with many variations in between. The stage with entertainment was a great centerpoint and the whole experience made for a celebratory holiday... More

We actually decided to walk rather than taking the little train...the furthest market being about 15 minutes away along the river :) Absolutely brilliant holiday!!...so many different Markets each with a different theme. All my friends and families Christmas presents came from here and they loved them. Try the Thai restaurants on the front of the river opposite the floating... More

This was our first time in Cologne and first time at a Christmas market. The markets were great, everything was as you would expect. Seamless transfer from Dusseldorf airport. Nice hotel, just a tram ride from town. The markets sell all kinds of crafts, loads of kitsch rubbish and plenty of food and grog stalls. However many stalls sell good-quality... More

I really enjoyed the Christmas markets, we went on a Friday to skip the weekend crowds..THANK GOODNESS!!!Even Friday was heavily crowded. The first market was fantastic , very European and exciting(i am Canadian), however, by the 3rd market it got pretty boring, all the markets have similar things in them. I got some pretty good buys out of it, but... More

The atmosphere was great, and there were plenty of different stalls and markets in the same small area to walk around. People were generally friendly, but the market did lack variety, most stalls sold the same things and we quickly got bored. Not excessive walking, and there was a shuttle that offered transport between markets. Worth going for, but easily... More

The market behind the Dom was beautiful and fun. Grab a mug or two of gluhwein and relax. We also visited the floating market by the Chocolate Museum (don't skip this one like others advise). It's quaint and festive. We also visited the market at Neumarkt -- very festive and fun. Our favorite was Heumarkt. Rustic and not as many... More

Cologne is amazing at Christmas time, with 7 markets each with different themes covering the city. Great food and shopping. We went for a weekend from London. Easily done in a couple of days wandering around the different markets. There was lots of unique gift ideas too. More

We spent a weekend exploring the Cologone during Christmas Market season and ended up finding seven different markets! Each of the markets had a different theme - adding a lot of variety to the way each was presented, as well as the food & crafts being presented. There was a children's market, an angel market, the main market next to... More

We flew to cologne with easy jet - great only one hour flight - caught the train into the town - easy (but a long queue for tickets at automatic machine - bit intimidating - be brave they have instructions in English) - the markets are all very similar- we managed to have a gluhwine in each lol!! 5 euros... More