There's more tinsel in the west

Discover Cologne's charming side away from the big markets and be inspired by the creative Advent atmosphere of the Belgian Quarter and Ehrenfeld. This route combines alternative Christmas markets, small boutiques and cozy cafés - perfect for anyone looking for something special!

Route: From St. Nicholas Village to an alternative Christmas

The route starts at Rudolfplatz with the atmospheric "Nikolausdorf", where quaint little houses and handmade gift ideas await. From here, the route leads along Aachener Straße to the Belgian Quarter. Brabanter Strasse and Maastrichter Strasse invite you to linger with their individual stores and stylish cafés. It gets particularly romantic as you continue along Brüsseler Straße and Antwerpener Straße, where you can really feel the alternative atmosphere of this district.

Once you arrive at Friesenplatz, you should definitely make a short detour to the HEAVENUE Christmas market. This colorful Christmas market delights with its trendy staging, colorful lights and an inclusive program. The unique atmosphere, combined with the imaginative stalls and creative offers, makes it a special attraction that perfectly enriches your Christmas stroll.

From here, Venloer Straße leads directly into the Stadtgarten. Here, a Christmas market awaits you in a cozy setting, offering small works of art, delicious snacks and festive mulled wine with great attention to detail. Continue along Venloer Straße to reach Ehrenfeld and the creative Körnerstraße - ideal for special Christmas gifts from young designers. The final section takes you to Ehrenfeld station, where the "Ehrenfeld Christmas Market" wraps the outdoor area of the former Bumann & Sohn workshop in a Christmassy atmosphere and the "Winter Market at CBE" transforms the outdoor area at the railroad arches of the local clubs CBE and YUCA into a colorful creative area.

Creative, alternative and full of enjoyment

The route combines trendy districts with cozy alternative culture and always offers retreats in restaurants or cafés. Trains run regularly from Ehrenfeld station back to the city center - or you can stop off at one of the charming local eateries to round off the tour with a culinary treat.