10 Best Christmas Markets To Visit In 2025
Georgina Willcox
Cologne Christmas Markets
Germany
Fully Guided3
Nights-
B&B
Flights & TransfersYour Guided Christmas Markets Holiday to Cologne
Begin the festive season in style with a visit to Cologne’s sparkling Christmas Markets on this 3-night guided holiday. Germany’s fourth largest city spans the river Rhine and was founded almost 2000 years ago by the Romans. Hit hard by the Second World War, these days the city is uniquely characterised by the contrast between modern post-war architecture and its carefully and painstakingly re-built Old Town. We’ll enjoy a half-day guided city tour and have time to wander through various Christmas Markets of varying shapes and sizes across the city. Take a wander through the stalls selling gifts and crafts, festive food and hot beverages beside Cologne’s famous Gothic cathedral, or visit markets in the city’s Old Town, in the shopping district, the harbour area or Stadtgarten park.
Tour Map
Trip Itinerary
Activity Level: Easy
What does this level mean?
Day
Travel to Germany
1
Arrive in Cologne
Upon arrival in Cologne, you will be met by your local guide who will assist you in the transfer to your hotel.
Cologne
2
MorningAfternoon
Cologne City Tour
MorningAfter breakfast, embark on a morning guided city tour of Cologne's charming old town situated on the River Rhine. Discover this 2,000-year-old city's top attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bustling Roncalliplatz, the historic Alter Markt Square, Cologne City Hall and much more.
At Leisure
AfternoonThe afternoon will be free to spend at your leisure. Your guide will be delighted to suggest some activities to suit your interests.
At leisure or Optional excursion to Aachen
3Full Day
Free Time in Cologne
Full DayEnjoy a day exploring the Cologne Christmas Markets at your leisure. The most popular and best-known one is in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral due to the huge backdrop of the impressive Cathedral. However, you can find few other Markets in the centre and some in quieter parts of the city equally as festive.
Optional excursion to Aachen by train
Why not opt for an excursion to Aachen, the former capital of the emperor Charlemagne? You will embark on a short train from Cologne to Aachen (30min to 1-hour ride), where your guide will walk you through the charming streets of Aachen for a 2-hour guided tour. For example, you will see the iconic Aachener Dom (cathedral – free entrance), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stunning blend of Romanesque and Carolingian architecture, where you will learn about its significance as the coronation site of German kings and delve into the tales of its intricate mosaics and relics. You will also stroll to the Aachener Rathaus, the Town Hall, a picturesque blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, where you will admire the ornate façade and the stunning craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. You can enjoy some free time on your own to explore more the city, with a visit to Charlemagne's Palatine Chapel for example. Don’t forget to taste some German delights with a currywurst (sausage) or the city's famous spiced gingerbread cookies. If you are looking for some warmth in the heart of the cold winter, you can relax at the Carolus Thermal baths, with their natural hot water, famous for their therapeutic virtues since the Roman Empire (don’t forget to take your swimsuits).
Return Home
4
Depart Germany
Time to say 'Auf Wiedersehen' to Cologne. You will be transferred to the airport with guide assistance for your flight home.
* We aim to operate your tour itinerary according to the format shown. Occasionally, local conditions and unexpected events may result in adjustments to the planned schedule. We kindly ask for your understanding and flexibility in the event of any changes.
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Know before you go
What if there is an emergency?
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Do I need a Visa?
Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements
Will I be met at the airport?
You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.
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