what to buy at christmas markets

aycor

I am off to Cologne to the christmas market is there any advice to best buys ? am on a coach trip so not too limited by weight restrictions.

Tarry

Whatever you fancy Sorry that it what I'm going to do

ChocolateQueen

I went last year - there are lots of stalls selling traditional Christmas German sweets - iced gingerbread - Polish pottery - Christmas decorations - handicrafts - wooden toys - wooden ornaments - food and drink. There is a fantastic bar just off the main Square serving beers - no tourists - near the Dom Hotel. You must go into the Cathedral - unbelieveable.

In a small square just off the large Square there are stalls selling mulled wine etc and old fashioned fairground rides.

If I think of anything else I will list some more !!

puffinmuffin

Gingerbread, both labkuchen cookies and the decorated type, you might be able to get them iced with personal messages. Marzipan is also popular. Traditional wooden gifts such as christmas pyramids and candle arches are always lovely. I lived there as a child and remember it all being much more traditionally "christmassy" than here

Hobsons_Choice

Fortunately (?) I live near Birmingham and go every year to their Frankfurt Xmas Market in Victoria Square. All the above available and lots more - plus no airfare! The atmosphere's terrific, though I'm sure fltying to Germany would be much more exciting! Have a great time aycor.

aycor

thanks everyone for suggestions it is really a mini break we are going to bruges, cologne, koblenz and brussels so I am sure there will be a very full coach on the way back.!!