Culture, Chocolate and Christmas in Cologne

On Tuesday 18 December, a group of 40 intrepid Year Eight and Year Nine pupils set off in the early hours for a festive visit to the Cologne Christmas markets. After travelling through France, Belgium and the Netherlands, the group arrived in Cologne in time for an evening meal and a first exploration of the city’s famous night markets, where pupils enjoyed their initial taste of the seasonal atmosphere and traditional Christmas stalls.

Wednesday provided a full day to discover all that Cologne has to offer. Alongside sampling the wide variety of food available in the markets, pupils were given the opportunity to climb the tower of Cologne Cathedral, one of the tallest churches in the world, and were rewarded with impressive panoramic views across the city. A visit to the Lindt Chocolate Museum proved equally popular, with its iconic chocolate fountain, vibrant displays and engaging insight into the history and production of chocolate.

The group returned to the markets for a final visit later that evening, making the most of their unique atmosphere before departing on Thursday morning. The trip was rich in cultural, historical and shared experiences, providing pupils with a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable introduction to European travel at Christmas.

Year Nine pupils reflected on the trip:

“The German Cologne trip was great fun. The night markets were an interesting and exciting experience, bustling with people, lots of nice food and handmade decorations for sale at the stalls. The stunning Cathedral was an amazing sight: it towered over nearby buildings and stood clear against the night sky. The Lindt Chocolate Museum gave an insight into how chocolate was, and still is, made.”

Sam Booth

“The night market was full of life and gave me a first look at German food and culture. The day market gave me a further look at the traditions and culture of Germany; the German people were so friendly. The markets also gave me a chance to practise my German.”

Dylan Hatchett

“The Cologne trip was brilliant fun. The German night markets were an amazing experience that enriched us with German culture. It was a long journey, but worth it to see the Cathedral, the markets and the Lindt Chocolate Museum. We all tried the German food such as pretzels and bratwurst. The Gothic architecture of Cologne Cathedral was awe-inspiring, and the long trek up the many stairs left us with a brilliant view of the cityscape.”

Harry Krick