Cologne's Christmas Markets
Flying from Valencia to the US in the wintertime often involves an overnight connection, since there are few or no flights that connect to the morning westbound transatlantic flights.
I decided to make the most of it and make a small trip to Cologne, during my overnight layover in Frankfurt. I had already "seen" Frankfurt once before, on another extended layover, and at this time of year Cologne has its famous Christmas markets!
And Cologne has its famous Cathedral - it is definitely very impressive and quite distinctive vs. other cathedrals around Europe!
And Cologne has not just one, but several Christmas markets around town. Here is the Altstadt Christmas Market, with close to full moon.
Next stop was the Neumarkt Christmas Market. I thought this one was the prettiest, with all white lights and quaint cottages housing each stall. Apparently this is Cologne's oldest one, and is called Angels' Christmas Market.
Here I had a Flammkuchen, which I didn't realize is German for Tarte flambée! Mine was a "classic," with onion, cheese and bacon.
At a different stall I got a potato pancake for €1, plus the free, optional apple sauce. Next time I'd probably get it without, but I guess this is a classic combination.
At every market, there is at least one stand with beverages. You pay a €2.50 deposit for the mug, which you get back if you return it. Or keep the mug for a souvenir. I had the Glühwein (mulled wine). This is the one from Neumarkt, which I thought was the most tasteful one I'd seen thus far.
But then I came upon the "Nikolausdorf" Christmas Market at Rudolfplatz. It wasn't as refined-looking as the other markets, but they had these cute boot-shaped mugs, which I just had to get! Here is mine filled with hot chocolate.
I had just an evening in Cologne, and of course I wish I had more time there to explore their museums and other sights in the daytime. But I'm glad I got this taste, and during such a special season!
