A real Christmas city: what European destination to choose for the holidays

The holiday season begins in December every year. European cities turn into a real winter fairy tale. For many, it has become a tradition to spend the December getaway at Christmas markets.

However, perhaps nowhere this tradition is taken as seriously as in Cologne. Last year, the German city's Christmas attractions gathered more than four million tourists between December 1 and 25. Experts told us why it is worth visiting Cologne for Christmas.

Cologne is located in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is the fourth most populous city in the country after Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, and the third largest by area. Cologne was founded in the first century AD as a Roman colony. The city is known for its cultural and architectural heritage, as well as for the events of international importance that have taken place in the city.

Named by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the best cities in the world to visit for Christmas, the city hosted its first Christmas market back in 1820.

The huge market near Cologne Cathedral boasts a tall Christmas tree and a stage program with over 100 free events.

The fair has a large selection of themed goods ranging from handmade souvenirs to organic culinary delicacies.The square is home to more than 70 stalls offering holiday paraphernalia.

Located next to the Rhine River and the city's Chocolate Museum, the fair also offers the opportunity to sit and enjoy hot mulled wine on a wooden three-masted ship.

It is worth taking a ride on the Ferris wheel, which offers views of Cologne. In the Old Town, visitors should visit the Heinzels Winter Fairytale, which has themed alleys and presentations, as well as an ice rink on the Heumarkt.

On Rudolfplatz, the Nikolausdorf (St. Nicholas Village), with its cozy village streets, will create a festive mood.

Every year, the Angels' Market is organized on Neumarkt, which includes stalls selling a variety of delicacies, including oysters and truffles.

The Kartäuser Church courtyard boasts the smallest Christmas market in the city, where you can enjoy hot mulled wine and a wide range of food with live music from some of Cologne's best bands in the evening.

Many other festive events and fairs will take place throughout the city, most of which will last until Monday, December 23.

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