In a picturesque setting overlooking the Rhine, the Cologne Harbour Christmas market at the Chocolate Museum will this year bring the gateway to the Rheinauhafen to life for the first time and give festive Cologne a maritime flavour.

As befits the location, the themes "harbour and christmas" will be reflected in the design, decoration, stage performances and products on offer at the new Harbour Christmas market at the Chocolate Museum. Snow-white, festively decorated pagoda tents with wooden floors and pointed roofs that remind you of the planks and sails of a ship give the new market a stylishly modern yet cosily festive touch. With around 70 exciting stands, this very special Harbour Christmas market at the Chocolate Museum is one of the largest Christmas markets in Cologne.

In a lively atmosphere, hearty "seafarers" offer a wide variety of fish specialities, fine foods and drinks from around the world along with a diverse range of high-quality goods and crafts, all on the themes of the harbour, seafaring, Cologne and Christmas.

Our culture and entertainment programme highlights the lively harbour atmosphere and festive mood. From sea shanties to traditional Christmas songs - you'll enjoy relaxing here with a delicious mug of mulled wine. Also the "Rhine Pirates" with their sailor's yarns and pirate juggling are an unmissable highlight of the market, particularly for children and families.

Surrounded by the medieval Malakoff Tower, the historic harbour swing bridge, the much-visited Chocolate Museum and the Rhine, the new atmospheric Cologne "Christmas market on water" will be an exciting, attractive must-see for visitors from near and far.