Cologne Christmas Market 2024

The Christmas season is very close! If you're wondering how to celebrate it, the Cologne Christmas Market offers a heartwarming welcome!

Cologne's Christmas markets have a rich history, with the first market, Nikolaimarkt, opening in the early 19th century. After a temporary pause, these festive markets were revived in the 1970s. Since then, they’ve become an integral part of Cologne’s holiday celebrations, bringing happiness to both the young and the old.

There are several Christmas markets in Cologne, each with a specific theme. The Cathedral Christmas Market (Markt der Herzen) is held right in front of the well-known Cologne Cathedral showing off its stunning Gothic architecture. In the center of Old Town, you’ll find the Old Market (Alter Markt), and the Market of Angels (Neumarkt) close by.

The Stadtgarten Christmas Market is the smallest market set in the lovely Stadtgarten Park. Finally, with its maritime theme, the Harbour Christmas Market (Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt), near the Rhine River and the Chocolate Museum, transforms into a New Year’s market through early January.

The Nicholas Village Christmas Market is held at Rudolfplatz, while Heinzel's Winter Fairytale takes place at Heumarkt and Alter Markt.

They all offer a festive atmosphere, with light decorations, cozy stalls, unique gifts, and much more.

This is your best opportunity to sightsee and walk through the iconic streets of Cologne, illuminated with all the bright Christmas lighting! Bring your loved ones to this festive celebration of Christmas and enjoy the warmth your its surroundings despite the chilly winter weather.

Pack your bags and plan your trip to Germany. This magnificent, merry event lasts from November 18 to December 23.

What to Expect When Attending Cologne Christmas Market 2024

Expect Christmas magic!

You'll have plenty of time to take photos at the beautifully decorated venues and warm yourself up with a mug of hot mulled wine (Glühwein).

The majestic Kölner Dom awaits you with an enormous Christmas tree right in front of it! This Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market features more than 100 free events, handmade crafts, and yummy food! Your little ones can also enjoy plays and face painting from Tuesday to Thursday!

The special highlight of the Harbour Christmas market is definitely the giant Ferris wheel. You can enjoy a splendid view over Cologne and all the sparkling lights from its top!

At the Market of Angels, you'll be able to cherish the holiday spirit by observing the trees decorated with fairy lights and walking past charming houses.

Every winter, Cologne becomes a perfect place to enjoy the holidays! Christmas lights, festive treats, and many activities for the young and the old will give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy Christmas shopping and shop for gifts for your family members and friends!

The weather will be cold, with temperatures ranging between 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F) during the daytime and 0°C to 3°C (32°F to 37°F) during the evenings. Dress in layers and keep yourself warm!

Tickets

The event is free to attend! Prepare cash if you’re planning to enjoy food and drinks from the vendors, or just buy gifts!

Security Protocols

• Security personnel will check bags and help manage the crowd to ensure everyone's safety.
• CCTV cameras will be monitoring the activities.
• First aid stations will be available at the venues to assist anyone in need.

How to Get To or From the Event

Getting to the Cologne Christmas markets is easy. Here are your options:

• Train: If you're coming from nearby towns or cities, local RE (Regional Express) trains or S-Bahn (commuter trains) will connect you to the Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), which is located next to the Cologne Cathedral. To reach the Old Market or the Market of Angels, take the U-Bahn (subway) line 5 from the Central Station to the Rathaus (Old Market) or Neumarkt station.
• Tram: Lines 1, 7, and 9 stop at Neumarkt for the Market of Angels, and lines 1 and 9 stop at Heumarkt for the Old Market and Harbour Christmas Market.
• Bus: Many bus routes stop near the venues. Check the Cologne public transport website (KVB) for specific routes and times.
• Car: If you decide to go by car, remember that there will be a huge crowd. The best option is to park somewhere outside the Cologne city centre and then take the train or tram.

Cologne Christmas Market 2024 Bag Policy

There's no strict bag policy publicly posted. However, it's best not to bring large bags or backpacks because of the crowd; some markets don’t even allow them at the venue. The’re are also no areas to store your belongings, like bags or coats.

If you're wondering what to do with your luggage, Bounce offers you a solution.

Our platform works as a provider of secure spots around the world where you can leave your belongings and enjoy your stay in the city, luggage free! You can find us online or use the mobile app to book us. The process of storing your bags with our help is easy!

Cologne Christmas Market 2024 Bag Storage

Store Your Bag With Bounce and Have a Merry Time in Cologne

All you need to do is contact a Bounce partner.

On the Bounce app or website, you can find the closest Bounce storage place. A Bounce partner will help you find a perfect spot in Cologne to drop off your belongings and head to the Cologne Christmas Market.

The price is only €3.00 per day! We offer you 24/7 support and no cancellation fee because we understand that plans can change.

How to Stow Your Bag at Cologne Christmas Market 2024 With Bounce

Follow these steps:

• Book us online: Check for the location, contact a Bounce partner, and pay online.
• Go to the agreed location: Head to your chosen spot, bring your confirmation, and drop off your luggage.
• Enjoy the Christmas market: Have a delightful day and make special memories!

How to Make the Most Out of Cologne Christmas Market 2024

• Explore various markets: Each market offers something special! Don't stick to just one, but visit the many you can!
• Taste local delicacies: You haven’t been to Germany if you haven’t experienced holiday treats such as bratwurst, potato pancakes (Reibekuchen), gingerbread (Lebkuchen), and roasted chestnuts.
• Enjoy activities: Have fun with your family and friends at ice skating, carousel rides, or other amusing family-friendly activities.
• Visit the market at nighttime: The best time to visit any Christmas market is at nighttime; all the lights shine and make a perfect winter atmosphere!
• Shop for gifts: Explore gifts and find unique ones to give to someone you love! Heavenue Cologne is a great place if you're looking for the perfect shopping spot!

Store your luggage with Bounce in the beautiful town of Cologne and enjoy the impeccable atmosphere of the holiday season!