Cologne's Historic Old Market
Experience the heart of Cologne at the Alter Markt, a historic square brimming with culture, traditional restaurants, and the spirit of Carnival, offering a quintessential Cologne experience.
The Alter Markt, or Old Market, in Cologne is a vibrant square steeped in history and local culture. Situated in the heart of the Innenstadt (Inner City), it has served as Cologne's central marketplace and civic hub for centuries. Today, it's a bustling meeting point for locals and tourists alike, surrounded by colorful buildings, traditional restaurants, and Kölsch breweries. The square is home to the iconic Jan von Werth fountain and is a focal point for Cologne's famous Carnival celebrations. Whether you're looking to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy a traditional meal, or simply people-watch, the Alter Markt offers a quintessential Cologne experience. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a perfect starting point for exploring the city's many attractions. The square is particularly lively during the Christmas season, when it transforms into a magical Christmas market.
A brief summary to Old Market
- Alter Markt 18, Cologne, Innenstadt, 50667, DE
Local tips
- Visit during the Christmas Market season for a magical experience with festive stalls, Glühwein, and an ice rink.
- Try a traditional Kölsch beer at one of the breweries surrounding the square and experience Cologne's unique beer culture.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during Carnival and other major events. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Take a stroll around the square at night to see the buildings illuminated, creating a romantic and picturesque atmosphere.
- Learn about the legend of Jan von Werth before your visit to fully appreciate the significance of the iconic fountain.
Getting There
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Walking
From Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), walk south along Dompropst-Ketzer-Straße, then turn left onto Kurt-Hackenberg-Platz. Continue straight, passing the Dionysos mosaic on your right. The Alter Markt will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
If arriving at Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station), take any S-Bahn (local train) one stop to Köln Hbf/Dom. Follow the walking directions from Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) as above. A short-distance ticket (Kurzstrecke) costs approximately €2.20. Alternatively, several tram lines (e.g., lines 1, 7, 9) stop at Heumarkt, which is a short walk (2-3 minutes) to the Alter Markt. A single ticket costs €3.20.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Alter Markt will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €10-€15. Note that traffic around the Alter Markt can be congested, especially during peak hours and events.
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