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Cologne Christmas Market 2013 

Recharge your batteries ahead of the festive period. Enjoy a 4 night break and see the beautiful Cologne Christmas markets from just £255pp. Book soon and pay 25% now, and the rest 70 days before departure.

 
Cologne Christmas Market
"We had, quite simply, a fantastic time. I can't think of a better way to start the Christmas period in style."

Mr R Palmer, Sunderland
 

Cologne is a fantastic place to get into the Christmas spirit, with the whole city being used to ring in the festive season. Enjoy 2 nights on board our ferry with comfortable cabins, live entertainment and a range of shops, restaurants and bars, before staying for 2 nights in the 4 star* Cologne Marriott Hotel for the perfect Christmas getaway.

The diversity of the marketplaces in Cologne is incredible, and you’re certain to find the perfect last-minute gift – or even a treat for yourself – among the hundreds of stalls. There is a huge range of goodies on offer, from handmade toys and winter clothing to delicious food gifts. See traditional glassblowers at work along with magicians and jugglers providing some great entertainment as you shop.

One of the best markets is Märchenweihnachtsmarkt (fairytale Christmas market) at the appropriately-named Rudolfplatz, where you will find a range of traditional decorations, handmade gingerbread hearts and wooden toys. The Christmas Market of Angels at Neumarkt is a beautiful market, set amongst decorated chalet-style stalls and surrounded by trees where lights twinkle festively to add a warm glow to the scene.

The new Cologne Harbour Christmas Market is near to the popular Chocolate Museum, by the historical harbour. Modern and elegant, with about 80 white marquee pagoda tents and roof peaks, like ship sails, this Christmas Market aims to inspire a nautical theme.

What’s Included

• 2 nights ferry accommodation in an inside en suite cabin
• Coach transfers to/from your hotel (approx 2 hrs 45 minutes)
• 2 nights’ bed & breakfast at the 4 star* Cologne Marriott Hotel
• Live onboard entertainment

For more information view our Cologne travel guide.

Christmas in Germany

Christmas Traditions

Christmas begins on the Nikolaustag (Saint Nicholas’ Day) on the 5 December, when German children leave their shoes or boots outside the door. If they’ve been good they will be filled with presents and treats by Sankt Nikolaus. If they’ve been bad, then they will be filled with bundles of twigs by his companion Knecht Ruprecht (Servant Rupert).

Some parts of the country believe that das Christkind (the Christchild) sends an angel bearing gifts for children on Christmas Eve, whilst others believe it is the work of der Weinachtsmann (the Christmas Man) who dresses like Santa Claus.

It is traditional in some homes for parents to prepare a room for Christmas with festive decorations and treats such as chocolate, marzipan, fruit and nuts. A bell is rung on Christmas Eve which allows the children to enter, and then carols are sung and stories read, and the children open their presents. This happens in the afternoon, before the family attends Christmas Mass.

Christmas Food & Drink

Cologne Christmas market is famous for its many food stalls, and some say the shopping is what you do in between moving between them! Enjoy a host of seasonal treats that taste and smell incredible, from zimsterne (cinnamon biscuits), spekulatus (spicy biscuits) and lebkuchen (gingerbread) to some hearty hirtenbrot (an open sandwich) and even some traditional apple strudel with cream.

You might even like to try reibekuchen (potato and onion fritters), a local delicacy. Glühwein is the standard tipple across many European countries at Christmas and you’ll find plenty of vendors here.

Christmas Shopping

From traditional decorations to handmade toys, you’re sure to find an ideal gift for anyone at the Cologne Christmas market. It’s the ideal chance to grab a last-minute present, or you could always treat yourself!

Marriott Cologne Hotel - bar and lounge area

Marriott Cologne Hotel - 4 star

The 4* Cologne Marriott Hotel is perfect for a luxurious and relaxing Christmas market getaway. Situated in the heart of the city, it’s easy to get out and explore with many of the markets just a few minute’s walk from the hotel. The hotel itself is comfortable and modern, meeting the high standards that you would expect of Marriott Hotels.

More information on Marriott Hotel

Room facilities include:

  • Telephone
  • Satellite TV
  • Pay per view movies
  • Mini bar
  • Hairdryer in room
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Radio
  • Tea and coffee making facilities

Hotel facilities include:

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Room service
  • 24 hour reception
  • Wi-Fi internet (fee may apply)
  • Safe deposit at reception
  • High chairs and cots available

Your time onboard

We aim to make your Cologne Christmas market mini cruise enjoyable from start to finish with a range of entertainment and leisure facilities to help you feel instantly relaxed as soon as you step on board.

Enjoy a drink

Order your favourite drink onboard

With a selection of bars on hand, you’ll find it easy to put your feet up and relax with a drink. The Columbus Club has a fun and friendly atmosphere, and is home to live music all night long. If you’d prefer a quieter evening then head to Navigator’s or Compass Bar or check out the Sports Bar to catch the latest game. All of our bars serve a selection of quality beers, wines, spirits and cocktails.

Dine in style

We have a variety of restaurants to make sure that nobody goes hungry. No matter what you fancy, there’s certain to be plenty of choice in the 7 Seas Restaurant, where you can sample over 80 dishes in an international all-you-can-eat buffet. For a little treat, why not visit the Explorer’s Steakhouse where our skilled chefs will cook up a juicy steak cooked to your liking, or indulge with à la carte dining at the Blue Riband Restaurant. There are also cafés for those with smaller appetites, serving hot drinks, fresh sandwiches and pastries.

Entertainment

There’s no chance of being bored on a ferry to Amsterdam, with plenty of entertainment for everyone onboard. Enjoy a movie in the onboard cinema, or head to the casino for a flutter on the blackjack or roulette tables. If you fancy a bit of shopping then our Sea Shops are well-stocked with great discounts on fashion, perfume, tobacco and alcohol products. Youngsters will love the Kidz’ Club, with toys, games, cartoons and even a ball pool to keep them occupied, as well as special visits from our mascot Jack the Pirate!

Your trip at a glance

Day 1
14:30 Check-in opens.
16:30 Check-in closes.
17:00 Depart North Shields for IJmuiden.

Day 2
09:30 Arrive in IJmuiden.
09:45 Coach departs IJmuiden for Cologne.
13:00 Arrive in Cologne and the Mariott Hotel. Explore Cologne at your leisure.

Day 3 Explore Cologne at you leisure and the Christmas markets on offer

Day 4
Morning at leisure.
13:00 Board the coach back to IJmuiden from your hotel.
16:30 Arrive at the terminal for check-in and boarding.
17:30 Depart IJmuiden for North Shields

Day 5
09:00 Arrive in North Shields

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to availability. Credit card & telephone booking fees apply. Terms & Conditions apply. Offers can be withdrawn at any time

When can you go?

Available departure dates are in bold.

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