8Cologne, Germany
Cologne is the 4th largest city in Germany, and the largest city both in the German Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia and within the Rhine-Ruhr Metropolitan Area.
Every year, the city centre of Cologne brings the spirit of the season out in everyone.
When the Christmas markets open their gates on the last Monday, before Advent, millions of tourists rush to grab a bite from the goods on sale.
Advent is the time for Christmas markets, and Cologne is no exception.
Starting from 24th November and ending on 23rd December, the Christmas markets in Cologne delight their visitors with Christmas music, art, toys and impressive crafts.
At the Heimat der Heinzel tourists will find a spectacular skating rink and, for a more idyllic setting, you should visit the Christmas market in the Stadgarten, where unusual crafts are sold.
Also, between Rudolfplatz and Schaafenstraße is the gay-lesbian Christmas Avenue market, while the Harbour Christmas Market, next to the Chocolate Museum, provides a maritime ambiance.
