Cologne in December
Not the best time
December means Christmas market season - the only thing that makes winter in Cologne bearable. Cold, wet, and dark, but the Glühwein helps. Come for the markets, stay inside otherwise.
Weather
December doubles down on winter gloom with short days ending around 4 PM. Cold, damp air off the Rhine cuts through everything, while humidity stays high around 85%. Snow occasionally brightens things up, but rain dominates. Expect about 6 hours of weak daylight.
6°C high2°C low13 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$115/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Traditional Christmas markets
- •New Year's Eve celebrations
- •St. Nicholas Day
December Tips
- •Christmas markets justify the weather torture - they're genuinely magical
- •New Year's Eve along the Rhine can be spectacular but bundle up
- •Hotel prices spike during Christmas week
All Months
April through October gives you the best weather and outdoor beer garden season. Summer means Rhine riverbank parties and open-air concerts. But here's the thing — Cologne's famous for its Christmas markets from late November through December. Five different markets, including the one in front of the cathedral that looks like a fairy tale. February brings Karneval, the city's biggest party. Book hotels months ahead and prepare for complete mayhem. Rosenmontag (Rose Monday) sees a million people flood the streets for the parade. Spring and fall offer perfect walking weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be gray and damp, but museum season keeps things interesting.
Cologne Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
7/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
7/10
Luxury
6/10
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