Get into the festive spirit with Christmas markets in Rhineland
The Christmas season is a great time to visit Rhineland in south-west Germany. From mid November through December stroll around the big city Christmas markets with their festive atmosphere and twinkling lights. Famous for its idyllic river landscapes, historical cities and some of the best wine-producing areas in the country, Rhineland transforms into a Christmas wonderland at this time of year.
With several HI hostels located in Rhineland you can also be sure of a great place to stay!
Europe’s Largest Floating Christmas Market, Cologne: 27 Nov – 22 Dec
Essen International Christmas Market: 18 Nov – 23 Dec
Enjoy an array of exotic products and worldly delights including Middle-Eastern Falafel, Polish Bigos and Dutch Poffertjes, which truly lives up to its name and invites you on a journey of scrumptious treats and exotic spices from around the world. Another attraction is the ‘Santa House’ where Father Christmas from all over the world describes their Christmas customs and traditions from their own various different countries.
Aachen Christmas Market: 19 Nov – 23 Dec
Aachen's brightly lit Christmas market is set around the cathedral and town hall. The lovingly decorated "Christmas village" on the market square has everything your heart could desire. One local specialty you really must try is the Aachen Printen, a local ginger bread speciality offered in many flavours, from almond and honey to herbs and dark chocolate.Bonn Christmas Market: 23 Nov – 23 Dec
Located about 20km south of Cologne the impressive buildings on Münsterplatz and its neighbouring streets light up and provide the festive backdrop for Bonn's Christmas market where you'll find everything from ingredients for special recipes to various art and craft items. While you shop, classical symphonies play in the background and what's more, there is an ice rink at Friedensplatz, which is a huge hit amongst everyone!
Düsseldorf Christmas Market: 18 Nov – 23 Dec
Düsseldorf Christmas Market offers a fairytale world right in the city centre. On the Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz there is a huge outdoor ice rink offering fun for all. A walk along the world-famous Königsallee is particularly worthwhile with a thousand brilliant lights illuminating the giant chestnut trees lining the boulevard.
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