Our Experience: Nuremberg Christmas Market
Pulling into the medieval walls that lead you to the Christkindlesmarkt is something I will never forget. We’ve driven through Europe and have seen many towns surrounded by giant walls, but entering the city center of Nuremberg felt like we were going back in time.
Especially when something like this drives past you.
We arrived around 11:00 am and it was busy! Every street heading towards the market was packed, and even a few streets were closed off. There are a few gated parking structures close by, and after waiting in a line of cars for about 45 minutes, we were finally pulling into the lot. There were a number of big tour buses in the area that day which made the market feel extra busy.
Since this is one of Germany’s most popular Christmas Markets, I’m sure its busy any time you go.
Once out of the car we were able to get a good look around. And we were floored. The architecture surrounding the market is awe inspiring. Everything is decked out in holiday decor, holiday music is coming at you from every direction, and the smell of grilled food and something sweet wafts through the air. Even from the parking garage we were drooling.
I came in with a plan here. A food plan. I was going to be eating Lebkuchen, Nuremberg bratwurst, and Glühbier. In no particular order, and maybe all at once. These items are what the market is famous for!
The Nuremberg bratwurst are small, but mighty. We were given three sausages inside a thick piece of bread. The stand had DIY toppings such as sauerkraut, onions, mustard, mayonnaise, and radishes. We topped ours with sauerkraut and mustard. The sausages had great flavor and a slight char on the outside. I could have eaten at least one..maybe two more sandwiches.
The Glühbier was something I was equal parts nervous and excited to try. The Glühwein has completely won me over but it also makes more sense. Warm mulled wine sounds better to me than warm mulled beer. At first it was a little strange, but after a few sips I found it really delicious. It was a good change, and it still gave me that same warm, comforting, Christmas feeling. I highly recommend you try it if you find it!
Lastly, the Lebkuchen. German gingerbread. It’s more potent than the gingerbread in the U.S, without burning your tongue. The cookies we bought were large and topped with colorful icing and almonds. They are rich and chewy and taste like Christmas.
While walking around we were stopped by a woman who asked if we’d be interested in a survey. It took about 5-10 minutes and afterward they gave us a magnet with the Christmas market on it and a spekulatius cookie with a stamp of the market on it. The cookie was delicious and it stopped me from buying an entire bag!
Curious about what foods you should be trying while in Germany? Check out our foodie guide!
If you’re here with kids, head to Hans-Sachs-Platz. Here you will find rides, stalls selling toys, and more food and drink stalls. The double decker carousel was definitely the highlight when it came to rides. It’s a great view from the top! There is also a small train ride that is good for littles.
Honestly, the lights, music, and smells were enough to keep our daughter entertained!
There will definitely be a next time. Since we were road trippin’ through Europe on a Christmas Market Extravaganza, we spent about 3 hours here. Which sounds like a solid amount of time, but I could have stayed 3 more! The lines were long at every stall, which stopped me from seeing a few things, and since almost everything was cash only, the line for the ATM (or cash machine) was ridiculously long.
We all got a really special vibe at this Christmas Market, and cannot wait to return.
Before you go, let us know your thoughts! Have you been to the Nuremberg Christmas Market, or is it on your list? Drop a comment below and share your experience or plans.
Don’t forget to check out our detailed Guide to Nuremberg Christmas Market for all the specifics you’ll need to plan your visit!
