Provisional: November 16 - December 23, 2026

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market

Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom

Experience the magic of Christmas beneath the majestic Gothic spires of Cologne Cathedral. More than 140 festive stalls, traditional crafts, and Glühwein await!

140+ Stalls

From 10/11 AM

FREE Entry

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2026 Dates & Opening Hours

Market Dates

Opens Monday, Nov 16
Closes Wednesday, Dec 23
Duration 37 Market Days

Closed Sunday, November 22. Dates are provisional.

Opening Hours

Sunday - Wednesday 11 AM - 9 PM
Thursday - Friday 11 AM - 10 PM
Saturday 10 AM - 10 PM
Best Time to Visit Evening (after 5 PM)

Visit after dark for magical Christmas lights!

What to Expect

Traditional Crafts

Handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, nutcrackers, nativity scenes, candles, and unique German Christmas decorations.

Glühwein & Treats

Warm mulled wine in collectible mugs, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), roasted almonds, hot chocolate, and traditional German pastries.

German Food

Bratwurst, Reibekuchen (potato pancakes), Flammlachs (grilled salmon), Kartoffelpuffer, and other hearty German fare.

Giant Christmas Tree

The 25-meter tall Christmas tree in front of the cathedral, decorated with thousands of lights, creates a stunning backdrop.

Cathedral Backdrop

The magnificent Gothic cathedral illuminated at night provides a breathtaking setting unique to this Christmas market.

Live Entertainment

Enjoy live music, carol singers, and the cathedral's own choir performing during the Christmas season.

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Practical Information

Location

Roncalliplatz
Right next to Cologne Cathedral
50667 Köln, Germany

Exit at Köln Hauptbahnhof (1-min walk)

Entry & Costs

  • Entry: FREE
  • Glühwein: €4-5 + €3 mug deposit
  • Food: €5-15 per item
  • ATMs: Available nearby

Tips for Visitors

  • • Visit on weekday evenings to avoid crowds
  • • Bring cash (many stalls don't take cards)
  • • Dress warmly - it's outdoors!
  • • Keep the collectible Glühwein mug
  • • Combine with cathedral tower climb

Crowd Levels

  • Quietest: Mon-Thu, 11 AM - 3 PM
  • Moderate: Weekday evenings
  • Busiest: Weekends, especially evenings
  • Peak: Dec 20-23 (final weekend)

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market 2026?

The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market 2026 runs from Monday, November 16 to Wednesday, December 23, 2026. It is closed Sunday, November 22. Hours are Sunday–Wednesday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM, Thursday–Friday 11:00 AM–10:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM–10:00 PM. Dates and hours are provisional.

Is the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market free to enter?

Yes, entry to the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is completely free. The market is an outdoor event on Roncalliplatz square, right next to the cathedral. You only pay for food, drinks, and items you purchase from the stalls.

What can you buy at the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market?

The market features more than 140 stalls selling traditional German Christmas items including handcrafted ornaments, nativity scenes, wooden toys, candles, nutcrackers, and gifts. Food stalls offer Glühwein, Lebkuchen, roasted almonds, Bratwurst, and other seasonal treats.

Can you visit Cologne Cathedral during the Christmas market?

Yes. Tourist visits generally run 10:00 AM–5:45 PM Monday–Saturday and 1:30 PM–4:30 PM on Sundays and public holidays. Christmas-period access can change, so check the official cathedral notice before travelling. Tower and Treasury tickets are sold separately.

How do I get to the Christmas market?

The Christmas market is located on Roncalliplatz, directly next to Cologne Cathedral. It's a 1-minute walk from Köln Hauptbahnhof (main train station). Take any S-Bahn or regional train to Köln Hbf, exit the station, and the cathedral and market are immediately visible.

Combine Your Christmas Visit

Make the most of your trip to Cologne Cathedral