The special tradition of Christmas markets

When the days grow shorter in winter and it’s cold outside, Christmas markets are simply a must for many people. The scent of roasted almonds, mulled wine, and gingerbread wafts through the streets, and the illuminated stalls shape the cityscape during the Advent season. But where does this tradition actually come from, and why have these markets endured for centuries?

• Vienna (1296): One of the oldest documented precursors to today’s Christmas markets originated in Vienna. Duke Albrecht I granted the citizens permission to hold a so-called “December Market,” which served primarily to supply the population.
• Bautzen (1384): When it comes to Germany, Bautzen takes the lead. With the Wenzelsmarkt, Bautzen was granted a special market charter by King Wenceslaus IV. Today, the market is considered the oldest Christmas market in Germany mentioned in a chronicle.
• Dresden (1434): The famous Dresden Striezelmarkt was first mentioned in a document in 1434. What began as a one-day meat market before Christmas evolved over the centuries into one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets.

It wasn’t until the 16th century that these markets, which had originally focused solely on food, began to slowly transform. Artisans such as toy makers, basket weavers, and confectioners sold their wares as Christmas gifts—and the Christmas market, as we know and love it today, took shape!

By the way: Cologne’s first Christmas market didn’t take place until 1820. Back then, it was called the Nicolaimarkt and was held at the Alter Markt.

• Mulled wine & Feuerzangenbowle: Whether red or white, with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, they instantly bring back childhood memories. With Feuerzangenbowle, a rum-soaked, flaming sugar loaf is added to the pot as it melts. At some Christmas markets in Cologne, you can even find Glühkölsch.
• Savory treats: Crispy potato pancakes (Rievkooche) with applesauce, bratwurst from the charcoal grill, or flambéed salmon. These delights are perfect when your fingers start to get cold.
• Sweet treats: Freshly roasted almonds are simply a must, as are regional specialties like Aachen Printen, Stollen, or delicious Mutzen.

During the Advent season, Cologne offers a wide variety of different locations: from the large market right next to Cologne Cathedral to “Heinzels Wintermärchen” in the Old Town, the “Markt der Engel” at Neumarkt, and smaller events in Cologne’s Stadtgarten.

If you prefer a more maritime atmosphere, you’ll find the Cologne Harbor Christmas Market right at the Rheinauhafen next to the Chocolate Museum. Here, classic Christmas traditions meet authentic harbor charm:

• Maritime Delicacies & Handicrafts: In addition to traditional handicrafts, you’ll find delicious fish, sailors’ tales from real market vendors, and, of course, plenty of warmth for cold hands.
• A Chocolate Stop: And the best part for anyone with a sweet tooth? You can perfectly combine your winter stroll along the Rhine with a visit to the Chocolate Museum. First, enjoy fresh Lindt chocolate at the chocolate fountain inside, and then step outside to take in the view of the Rhine with a hot glass of mulled wine.

What’s your favorite Christmas market tradition? Come on by, stroll through the illuminated Rheinauhafen, enjoy a ride on Cologne’s Ferris wheel with a view of the cathedral city, and let us get you in the Christmas spirit here at the Chocolate Museum. 

You can find an overview of all Cologne’s Christmas markets at Kölntourismus. The Hafen Christmas Market and the Christmas Market in the Stadtgarten open as early as November 13, 2026.

• Using public transportation: Cologne’s downtown area gets very crowded during the Advent season. It’s best to take the KVB (subway/tram) to Hauptbahnhof, Heumarkt, or Neumarkt.
• Plan your visit: It gets very crowded on weekends. If you want to stroll at a leisurely pace, come on a weekday afternoon.
• Bring cash: Even though many stalls accept card payments, paying the cup deposit at the mulled wine stands with cash is often much faster.
• Christmas Market Hopping: Take Cologne’s “Weihnachtsmarkt-Express” tourist train to travel comfortably from one market to the next.