The markets boast ice rinks, classic Christmas tales and beautiful backdrops
The festive season is fast approaching with local Christmas markets preparing for another busy year. If you’re willing to travel further afield, ditching the UK for nearby European hotspots, you’ll be treated to some of the top markets in the world.
Germany’s fourth largest city, Cologne, offers an array of Christmas markets for all interests. If you’re chasing somewhere cosy and classic, a market aimed directly at children, or one with an ice skating rink, Cologne has you covered.
Cologne’s Christmas market season kicks off on Monday, November 18, and runs until Monday, December 23. The Times named Cologne the best city in the world for Christmas markets due to its phenomenal range of options.
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Nestled directly beneath Cologne’s famous gothic cathedral, Markt der Engel boasts hundreds of lights, stars and twinkling ornaments. This is the most popular market on the scene with visitors travelling all over the world just for a glimpse of the beautiful setting.
Nikolausdorf (St Nicholas village) is aimed at children and tells the story of the real St Nick, with the 13th-century Hahnen Gate sitting in the background. There are even markets dedicated to mythical gnomes and maritime history, complete with sea shanties and pirates.
If you fancy something a little more traditional, put your skates on and head to the outdoor rink at Heinzels Winter Fairytale on Heumarkt. The rink returns from Monday, November 25 to Sunday, January 5.
What is the flight time to Cologne?
If you fly on the market’s opening day, Monday, November 18, you can spend five days in Cologne for just £141 return. You can find flights from Liverpool John Lennon Airport here.
If you prefer a direct journey, you can find flights from Manchester Airport here. The average flight time from Manchester takes around 90 minutes.
Is Cologne good for tourists?
Cologne is a big hit with tourists for its grand sights, lively nightlife, and iconic beer, Kölsch. Tourists can lap up German cuisine including grilled sausage or a pork knuckle at any of the classic Kölsch beer halls.
As Germany’s fourth largest city, Cologne has more than 2,000 years of history to discover. If you want to ditch the markets for a night, explore the architectural wonders such as the Cologne cathedral or visit Museum Ludwig, home to one of the largest collections of Picasso works in the world.
