Germany
Seven Christmas markets sit in the shadow of Cologne's UNESCO cathedral, anchored by the Cathedral Market (Dom) and the medieval Old Town market.
Famous for
The grand cathedral market — seven markets under one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals.
Cologne is the Rhine's Christmas-market capital, with seven distinct markets spread across the old town. The Cathedral Market is the headline — more than 150 stalls in the shadow of the Dom's twin spires — but the Alter Markt and Rudolfplatz markets are equally beloved. Reibekuchen (crispy potato pancakes with applesauce) is the local must-eat, washed down with Glühwein or a local Kölsch beer. Most Rhine Christmas sailings either overnight here or stop for a full day.
Dates: Late Nov – Dec 23
Vibe: Grand and bustling — the cathedral towers over the stalls.
Local tip
Climb the cathedral's south tower (533 steps) for the best market overview — do it at dusk when the lights come on.
Germany
The Christkindlesmarkt is the world's most famous Christmas market, set in Nuremberg's medieval main square and dating back to the mid-1600s.
Late Nov – Dec 24
ExploreGermany
Regensburg's Romantic Christmas Market sits in the medieval Neupfarrplatz, in a UNESCO old town with the world's oldest sausage kitchen (since 1146).
Late Nov – Dec 23
ExploreGermany
Rüdesheim's Christmas Market of Nations lines the Drosselgasse with stalls from 25+ countries, in a Rhine-gorge wine town famous for Riesling.
Late Nov – Dec 23
ExploreGermany
Bamberg's Christmas market sits before the UNESCO old town's four-spired cathedral, in a medieval town famous for its smoked beer (Rauchbier).
Late Nov – Dec 23
Explore