Date
November 29 – December 24, 2024
Hours
Daily – 10:00am – 9:00pm
December 24 – 10:00am – 2:00pm
Pro Tip
Visit the ‘Children’s Christmas Market’ for hands-on crafts and activities your little ones will love.
November 29 – December 24, 2024
Daily – 10:00am – 9:00pm
December 24 – 10:00am – 2:00pm
Visit the ‘Children’s Christmas Market’ for hands-on crafts and activities your little ones will love.
The Nuremberg (Nürnberg) Christmas Market, also known as Christkindlesmarkt, is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany. The first written evidence of the market dates back to 1628, when a wooden box was found with the inscription “sent to the KindlesMarck”. However, some historians believe that the market originated when the tradition of giving children presents at Christmas evolved. ..So you believe what feels right to you.
The market is famous for its traditional products such as gingerbread, fruit dolls, ornaments, and the Nuremberg bratwurst.
If you’ve made it all the way to Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Germany, then you MUST try the Nuremberg Bratwurst! A 700 year old tradition, these little sausages are about as big as your finger and are packed with flavor. They come served in a sandwich of three and are perfectly seasoned and cooked, and topped with sauerkraut and mustard (which is optional – but highly recommended). It is fantastic. This is German living at its finest.
The Christkindlesmarkt is famous for its Lebkuchen, or gingerbread. A large, soft and chewy cookie, and topped with icing or nuts. It’s still the same familiar flavors, but stronger and bolder, yet not as overpowering as the ones I’ve had here in the US. They are a little pricey, but totally worth it.
Here we tried our first “Winter Warmer” which is a warm, mulled beer! The mulled wine sounds great together. But mulled beer?
It totally works.
With the Nuremberg (Nürnberg) Christmas Market being so old, there is so much to see. The big Christmas Pyramid is a showstopper. Especially as the sun starts to go down, the lights light up and you can still see all the details of the figurines.
One of the little things that caught my attention were the fruit people: Originating as children’s toys from the Thirty Years War, the Plum Man or Zwetschgenmännle, is made from dried plums, nuts, and figs. They are oddly cute and you will see them all over the market.
The nativity scene is located in front of the stunning Frauenkirche (“Church of Our Lady”). The Gothic church is really something to see, and is quite the backdrop for all those photo ops.
There are also plenty of tours available. Walking tours, audio tours, and even a tour of the town on a horse and carriage! These are great ways to see the whole market and learn some cool stuff.
There are a few parking garages within walking distance, but it’s hard to find a space, and be prepared for long queue times.There are also Park & Ride lots available where you can park for a small fee and public transportation will pick you up and take you to the city center. For all of their parking information: CLICK HERE
Staying near the market means you won’t have to worry about parking or missing out on the festive atmosphere. There are several cozy accommodations to choose from, ranging from boutique hotels to family-friendly options. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, consider booking early to secure a good deal, as rooms fill up fast during this busy season.
100% yes. Driving up to those medieval walls and strolling through the festive city center was like taking a trip back in time. A solid 3 hours would be a good amount of time, but I would recommend a little bit longer. Also make sure you bring cash! Credit cards are accepted with some vendors, but not many. In Europe, cash is king.
Have you visited the Nuremberg Christmas Market? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more insights on Germany, check out our other articles for more travel inspiration.
