Magical Cologne & Aachen Christmas Markets

Itinerary

4 Day Itinerary

• Day 1

  Local departure by coach, then to Belgium for a three-night stay.

• Day 2 - Cologne

  Today we travel to the majestic city of Cologne on our included excursion. Cologne’s history traces back more than 2,000 years when it was founded as a Roman colony. It has since developed into a beautiful cosmopolitan city.

  Advent magic spreads throughout Cologne at this time of year, when the idyllic Christmas markets open their gates to visitors. Festive stalls offer traditional goods and handcrafted gifts. Wonderful spicy aromas of cinnamon stars, baked apples and roasted almonds will fill the air.

  Start at the ‘Christmas market in Kolner Dom/Cathedral Square’ with a huge, decorated fir tree. Admire the festive lights over Roncalliplatz, and discover culinary delights and individually made arts and crafts.

  Not far away, the rustic ‘Heinzels Winter Fairytale’ Christmas market with old-world charm, dedicated to the legend of the ‘Heinzelmannchen’ (or elves) of Cologne – is situated in the heart of Cologne’s Old Town, spreading over the squares ‘Alter Markt’ and ‘Heumarkt’.

  In the centre of the larger shopping areas, the "Market of Angels" on Neumarkt presents itself under a magnificently illuminated starry sky. The illuminated wooden stars in the trees above the market provide a special atmosphere. Relax and browse for tasty food, gifts and arts and crafts.

  Next door on Rudolfplatz, young and old alike will enjoy the "Village of St Nicholas", a wonderful experience for the whole family. This market tends to have reindeer and elves and a huge advent calendar.

  ‘Cologne Harbour Christmas market’ is located in a picturesque backdrop directly on the river Rhine, right in front of the Chocolate Museum, with snowy white pagoda tents reminiscent of ships’ sails.

  We return to our hotel this evening.

  Meals - Breakfast

• Day 3 - Aachen

  Today our included excursion takes us to Aachen. Aachen’s historic Old Town is perfect for visitors to stroll around. Here you can discover the charm of the narrow lanes and historic squares and be inspired by almost 2000 years of history. Aachen is widely known as the ‘Cathedral City’ and the ‘City of Fountains’, and owes its national recognition as a spa city to more than 30 hot springs, generating a heat of up to 74 degrees.

  Every year in the weeks prior to Christmas, the squares and alleys around Aachen’s town hall and cathedral are transformed into a festive Christmas Market. Enjoy free time visiting the many stalls whilst sipping a warming cup of mulled wine and sampling the delicious Potato fritters. Be sure to try ‘Spekulatius’ or traditional Christmas spice cookies.

  Meals - Breakfast

• Day 4

  Return home.

  Meals - Breakfast

Accommodation