A stunning European city that boasts an incredible 16 Christmas markets is just two hours from the UK. Cologne is the largest city in the west German state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the fourth biggest in all of Germany.
The pretty city is mainly known for its sites such as the cathedral and the chocolate-making museum as well as its festive markets. In December, Christmas touches every corner of Cologne, with markets, decorations and music on nearly every street.
There are a variety of markets on throughout the festive season, with around 16 across the city including in the shadow of the towering cathedral and along the river’s edge.
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Markets are filled with artisan shops selling handmade wooden decorations, glass ornaments, knitted items and children’s toys, among other things.
There are also food vendors offering German festive classics such as bratwurst, potato pancakes, raclette and tornado potatoes as well as drinks like mulled wine and beer.
Some have other attractions that set them apart from others, such as ice rinks, Ferris wheels, live music, a miniature railway, nativity scenes and more.
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Other things to visit in Cologne include the Church of Gross St Martin, the chocolate-making museum, Kolner Dom, and a number of other museums, historic structures and churches.
There are hotels, Airbnbs and holiday lets to stay in while visiting the city. There are also lots of restaurants and cafes to enjoy during a stay.
Visitors can get to Cologne by plane from London, Manchester and Bristol (between 1hr10 and 1hr40) and by train from London via the Eurostar (4hrs).
One visitor, from Manchester, penning a glowing review on TripAdvisor, said: “There are a few Christmas markets. All have a different emphasis and stalls. I recommend you visit all. Avoid the busy times to enjoy your visit. I recommend late morning, early afternoon.”
While one local resident, Harrison Carter, added: “We visited all of the Christmas markets in Cologne this year, with our favourites being. at Heumarkt and Neumarkt. All have their own character and identity and it is nice to visit them all over the weeks.”
A spokesperson fro Visit Cologne said: “In contrast to many other German cities, Cologne opened its first Christmas market rather late, in 1820.
“But today Cologne has a sparkling array of Christmas markets, including the splendid and popular Christmas market around the Cathedral, the Market of Hearts, and many different theme-oriented Christmas markets presided over by the local Heinzelmännchen as well as angels, fairy-tale figures or mariners.
“With such a broad range of choices, waiting for Santa Claus is sure to be easy.”
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