Christmas Market in Cologne

Things have calmed down for us around the holidays due to cold gray rainy weather. There aren't really any festivals or village celebrations going on. We did however enjoy several Christmas markets. Mostly smaller ones that were around our area. Going to one of the larger cities and really experiencing a big market was something I had looked forward to since we moved here. Brian and I enjoyed going to Cologne a couple of months ago and I had read that it was one of the top 5 big Christmas markets. It had been a couple of months since the hubby and I had a day away from the little one. When it happens, it is always a much needed day trip/ mini vacation. Kinsley does really well when we're out and about, with this cooler weather she gets cranky a lot sooner. So she spent the day with her pal Logan.

The market was broken up into four different parts throughout the downtown area; the Cathedral, the Alter Market, the Neumarket and the Rudolfplatz.

Our snazzy ride around the city.

I had a blast with my sweet husband.

Brian's grandmother told us that during the holidays you can find roasted chestnuts at the markets. That and mulled wine were the two things I was looking forward to during this time of the year. Now I only wish I had more of them because the chestnuts were quite tasty.

Who wouldn't want to stop at the chocolate museum/factory. And what do you know... SAMPLES!!! Located right by one of the markets so we went inside to warm up a little and purchase some chocolate. With 30 plus ingredients to choose from, you can create your own chocolate bar

After we picked up our custom chocolate bars, Brian and I stopped at the cafe for dessert. I had a creme brulee cake and some hot chocolate. Words can't describe how delicious the drink was. Melted chocolate straight from the fountain and a thick layer of whip cream on top. I also got crushed hazelnuts in mine. Makes me want to go back just for another drink.

Brian's extra large slice of chocolate cake. We both weren't expecting the cake to be that huge. You can say we got chocolate wasted before heading back home.

Christmas decor and ornaments. Absolutely loved all the different nut crackers.

Salmon sandwich is my favorite thing to eat anytime it's available.

Even though there wasn't a lot of shopping going on, having a day to spend some time together and eat yummy food, made for a nice day out.

Ciao!