Nuremberg Christmas Market Guide: What to Eat, Buy & Experience at the Christkindlesmarkt

Mulled wine warming your hands, the scent of bratwurst and gingerbread in the air, and stalls aglow beneath the spires of the Frauenkirche Church—there’s simply nothing like the Nuremberg Christmas Market in December. Also known as the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, this centuries-old tradition transforms the heart of the city’s Old Town into a festive wonderland filled with music, lights, and the comforting joy of the holiday season.

Often called one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is a true bucket list experience. With roots tracing back to the 1600s, the Christkindlesmarkt is steeped in history—from the angelic Christkind who opens the market each year to stalls brimming with handcrafted ornaments, Zwetschkemanne (prune men), and steaming mugs of glühwein.

As someone who’s explored Christmas markets all across Europe, I can honestly say this one still stands out for its charm, tradition, and attention to detail. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this guide will help you make the most of your trip—covering everything from what to eat and where to stay to insider tips you won’t find anywhere else.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market, from navigating the stalls to finding the perfect souvenir. Trust me: the festive magic here is worth every chilly step.

How to Get to Nuremberg for the Christmas Market

Nuremberg is located in the heart of southern Germany, making it an easy and convenient stop on any European Christmas market trip. Whether you’re flying in from abroad or traveling within Germany by train or bus, getting to the Nuremberg Christmas Market is simple—and well worth the effort.

By Air

The closest airport is Nuremberg International Airport (NUE), located just 20 minutes from the Old Town by metro. It’s a smaller airport, but several budget airlines fly here, especially from other European cities.

If you’re coming from further away (like the US or Canada), you’ll likely find the best deals flying into Frankfurt or Munich. From either city, it’s a quick and scenic train ride to Nuremberg—about 2 hours from Frankfurt and just 1 hour from Munich.

Tip: Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to track deals, and consider flying into one city and out of another if you’re doing a multi-city itinerary.

By Train

Germany’s rail system is incredibly efficient, and Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof (the central station) is well connected to cities across the country. You can reach Nuremberg in:

• 1 hour from Munich
• 2 hours from Frankfurt
• 3 hours from Stuttgart
• 6 hours from Berlin

I always recommend booking your train tickets on bahn.de, the official Deutsche Bahn website. If you book at least 3 days in advance, you’ll usually snag a discount fare. Alternatively, you can compare train, bus, and flight options using Omio.

By Bus

On a tighter budget? FlixBus offers frequent and affordable routes to Nuremberg from across Germany and neighboring countries. It’s not quite as fast as the train, but it’s a solid option if you want to save some euros for extra glühwein and ornaments.

Where to Stay in Nuremberg for the Christmas Market

When the scent of roasted almonds is in the air and the Nuremberg Christmas Market lights flicker to life each evening, you’ll want to be staying nearby—ideally within walking distance of the Old Town. The good news? Nuremberg has a wide range of accommodations, from cozy hostels to boutique hotels, all perfectly positioned to make the most of your Christkindlesmarkt experience.

Here are a few personally recommended places to stay in Nuremberg, whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking to splurge a little for the holidays:

Budget: Five Reasons Hotel & Hostel

Mid-Range: Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremberg

Charming & Traditional: Hotel Am Jakobsmarkt

Wherever you stay, try to book early—hotels in Nuremberg fill up quickly during the Christmas season, especially on weekends. I also recommend staying within or just outside the Old Town walls so you can walk to and from the markets easily, even after that second mug of Feuerzangenbowle.

Tips for Visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market

Visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market is pure holiday magic—but that also means it can get very busy. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, these tried-and-true tips will help you make the most of your visit without getting overwhelmed by the crowds.

Avoid Weekends If You Can

Nuremberg hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, so weekends (especially in December) can feel like a festive version of the Hunger Games. If possible, plan your visit for a weekday—Tuesday to Thursday tends to be the most relaxed.

That said, if a weekend is your only option, try going early in the morning or later in the evening when things calm down a bit. The twinkling lights after dark are part of the magic anyway.

Dress for the Weather

The Old Town can be chilly and cobbled, so be sure to wear:

• Warm layers (a thermal base + a cozy coat is key)
• Waterproof boots with good tread
• Touchscreen gloves so you can snap photos without freezing your fingers off

Bring Cash

While more stalls now accept cards than they used to, many vendors—especially the smaller, handmade gift stands—are still cash-only. Bring plenty of euros, and make sure to keep a few coins for glühwein mug deposits (pfand).

Take a Guided Tour

If you want to dive deeper into the history, flavors, and festive traditions of the market, then a guided tour is the way to go—and I’ve found a truly magical one.

Best Pick: Nuremberg Christmas Market Culinary Tour

This small-group experience is the perfect blend of storytelling and snacking. You’ll wander through the glowing stalls of the Christkindlesmarkt, learn about the Christkind tradition, stop by the Children’s Market and Market of the Sister Cities, and taste local delights like sausage, Lebkuchen, and hot wine along the way.

It’s festive, fascinating, and just the right amount of structured if the market feels a little overwhelming at first.

If you speak German, the “Dies Städtlein in der Stadt” and “Night Watchwoman Advent Tour” are incredibly charming and deeply rooted in local tradition.

Save on Attractions with the Nürnberg Card

If you’re spending more than a day in Nuremberg and want to explore beyond the market stalls (yes, there’s more to this city than glühwein—hard to believe, I know), then the Nürnberg Card is 100% worth considering.

This handy little card gives you:

• Free entry to Nuremberg’s most popular museums and landmarks (think: Imperial Castle, Albrecht Dürer House, Toy Museum, and more)
• Unlimited public transport in Nuremberg and neighboring Fürth
• 50% off select activities like underground tours and the planetarium

It’s valid for 48 hours from first use, so you can activate it when it fits your schedule—and honestly, it can save you a surprising amount if you’re even a little bit curious about Nuremberg beyond the Christmas magic.

Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, the Toy Museum and zoo are total winners. If you’re solo (like me most of the time!), the museums (including the Toy Museum!) are the perfect cozy break between mugs of glühwein.

Have the Market Map to Your Phone

The Christkindlesmarkt is large, and the side markets are easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. I recommend downloading a map ahead of time or saving the one I’ve added below so you can find everything from the Market of the Sister Cities to the Children’s Market and Feuerzangenbowle stand without wandering in circles.

Nuremberg Christmas Markets Overview + Map

Unlike some German cities that spread their markets out across multiple neighborhoods, Nuremberg keeps things delightfully central. Nearly everything—from the main Christkindlesmarkt to smaller specialty markets—is tucked within the Old Town walls, making it super walkable and easy to explore.

The main Nuremberg Christmas Market location is in the historic Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square), right in front of the Frauenkirche Church. From there, it’s just a few minutes on foot to the Children’s Market, Market of the Sister Cities, Original Regional Market, and the massive Feuerzangenbowle stand by the river.

Here’s a quick map to help you get your festive bearings:

The Main Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

This is it—the crown jewel of German Christmas markets. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Frauenkirche Church in the heart of the Old Town, the main Nuremberg Christmas Market (or Christkindlesmarkt) is one of the most famous—and most magical—holiday events in all of Europe.

And yes, it really does live up to the hype.

From late November until Christmas Eve, the Hauptmarkt transforms into what locals call the “little city of wood and cloth”—a grid of charming stalls with red-and-white striped roofs, all glowing under strings of golden lights. The scent of Lebkuchen, grilled bratwurst, and spiced glühwein fills the air, and every evening brings a different school choir or brass band to the main stage in front of the church.

Must-See Highlights at the Main Market:

• Local Handmade Goods – Many stalls have been run by the same families for generations, selling traditional ornaments, beeswax candles, and hand-carved nativity scenes.
• Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) – A stunning gothic fountain, perfect for photos—don’t forget to spin the golden ring for good luck.
• Christkind Stage Appearances – Keep an eye on the schedule for when the Christkind makes an appearance in her glittering gold robes, often reading stories or greeting children.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Traditions

One of the reasons the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt stands out from every other market in Germany is its deep-rooted traditions—many of which you won’t find anywhere else. These aren’t just gimmicks for the tourists; they’re woven into the fabric of the city’s Christmas spirit. Here are a few of the most unique and magical customs you’ll encounter.

The Christkind

Every two years, a local teenage girl is chosen to become the Christkind—a symbolic figure dressed in white and gold who opens the market with a heartfelt prologue and appears throughout the season to visit schools, hospitals, and, of course, the market itself.

Keep an eye out for her scheduled appearances on the Frauenkirche balcony or wandering through the crowds, gently handing out sweets to children.

Zwetschgenmännle (Prune Men)

Yes, you read that right—little men made out of prunes and walnuts. These whimsical figurines, known as Zwetschgemännla, are an iconic Nuremberg tradition dating back over 200 years. Legend has it they were originally crafted by a poor man as thank-you gifts for neighborhood children.

You’ll spot them all over the market: some playing instruments, some reading books, others bundled up in tiny wool scarves. And yes, you can absolutely take one home (just… don’t eat it).

Rauschgoldengel (Golden Angel)

Another figure unique to Nuremberg is the Rauschgoldengel, a shimmering, armless angel dressed in golden foil. She’s often seen perched high above stalls or sold as delicate tree toppers.

The story goes that a dollmaker, grieving the loss of his daughter, created the first Rauschgoldengel in her memory. Today, she’s a symbol of protection, peace, and quiet reflection during the festive season.

Each of these traditions adds another layer to the magic of the Christkindlesmarkt. Sure, the food and atmosphere are incredible—but it’s these stories and symbols that make Nuremberg feel like something more than just a market. It’s a celebration of memory, meaning, and generations of community care.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates & Opening Times

Planning your trip and wondering when the Nuremberg Christmas Market starts? The Christkindlesmarkt typically runs from late November until December 24, with the official opening ceremony on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent each year.

This means the market usually kicks off in the final days of November and wraps up on Christmas Eve, making it one of the longest-running and most magical in Germany.

For the most up-to-date schedule, check the official Christkindlesmarkt website here.

General Opening Hours:

• Daily: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• December 24 (Christmas Eve): 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Top Tip: The market is busiest on weekends and late afternoons. For a quieter experience, try visiting in the morning or midweek.

Don’t Miss the Opening Ceremony

Each year, the Nuremberg Christkind—a local girl dressed in flowing gold robes—opens the market with a prologue from the balcony of the Frauenkirche Church. It’s one of the most iconic Christmas moments in Germany, so if you happen to be in town for it, bundle up and get there early for a front-row view.

Other Nuremberg Christmas Markets You Shouldn’t Miss

While the Christkindlesmarkt is the star of the show, part of what makes Nuremberg so special is how everything feels connected. Just steps from the main market square, you’ll find several smaller themed markets—each with its own unique atmosphere and festive flair.

Here’s where to wander when you’re ready to branch out from the main square:

Children’s Christmas Market (Kinderweihnacht)

Even if you don’t have kids in tow, the Children’s Christmas Market is downright charming. Picture mini rides (including a carousel and Ferris wheel), a warm glow of string lights, and little workshops where children can try their hand at candle making or baking holiday cookies.

Market of the Sister Cities (Partnerstädte Market)

Where else can you sip Scottish whisky, buy Polish pierogi ornaments, and toast with glühwein from Nicaragua—all in one place?

This market brings together Nuremberg’s sister cities from around the world, each represented by a small booth selling handmade gifts, food, or drink unique to their culture. It feels a little like traveling the globe—without ever leaving the Old Town.

Original Regional Market

Focused on celebrating Franconian producers and small businesses, the Original Regional Market is a tiny gem where you’ll find beeswax candles, artisan schnapps, herbal teas, and homemade jams. It’s a quieter alternative to the main market—perfect for thoughtful gift shopping.

Feuerzangenbowle at the Pegnitz River

You’ll smell this one before you see it. At the edge of the Old Town, you’ll find the largest punch bowl in the world—a steaming cauldron of flaming glühwein spiked with rum-soaked sugarloaf, known as Feuerzangenbowle.

It’s dramatic. It’s delicious. And it’s the coziest way to warm up after hours of wandering.

Handwerkerhof Nürnberg

Tucked inside Nuremberg’s medieval city walls, the Handwerkerhof is a year-round artisan village—but at Christmastime, it gets a festive makeover with twinkling lights, cozy decor, and stalls selling handmade crafts, glühwein, and holiday snacks.

It’s less crowded than the main market and a great place to pick up high-quality, handmade souvenirs.

Next up: Let’s talk about what to eat at the Nuremberg Christmas Market—because you can’t survive on glühwein alone. (Well, you could. But I don’t recommend it.)

What to Eat at the Nuremberg Christmas Market

Let’s be honest: one of the main reasons to visit a German Christmas market is the food. And the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt? It absolutely delivers.

From crispy bratwurst to pillowy pastries, the market is a parade of smells, tastes, and treats. Here’s what to snack on between mugs of glühwein (and where to find the local specialties that make Nuremberg’s market so iconic).

Lebkuchen

One of the classic images of German Christmas markets is those decorated Lebkuchen hearts hanging in bunches. You probably have it in your mind already to buy one.

But here’s the secret no one tells you: those hearts look pretty, but they don’t taste very good.

Does that mean that all Lebkuchen tastes bad though? Not at all. You just want a different kind of Lebkuchen: Elisenlebkuchen.

Elisenlebkuchen are the top tier of Lebkuchen, made with hardly any flour and perfectly soft and chewy.

You can get a circular little Elisenlebkuchen from many different stands throughout the Nuremberg Christmas Market (in loads of different flavors), perfect for munching on as you wanter through the booths!

Glühwein

Glühwein is a must at any German Christmas market, but the glühwein at the Nuremberg Christmas Market, like everything, is extra special. It’s made out of blueberries!

Of course, you can find the normal glühwein as well, but make at least one of your drinks the Heidelbeer glühwein!

You’ll need to pay a pfand (deposit) of a few euros for your mug. You can either keep the mug as a souvenir or hand it back to get your deposit back.

“Drei im Weckla” Bratwurst

Bratwurst are another food synonymous with Christmas markets. But once again, Nuremberg does things a little bit differently!

The “Drei im Weckla” is three skinny little bratwurst in a roll–and they can only be Nürnberger bratwurst, made within the city limits of Nuremberg!

There are 7 different families which sell “Drei im Weckla” throughout the market, and they rotate stalls each year so that no one can complain about having a bad spot! Each one has a slightly different way of making their bratwurst, so you’ll have to try them all and decide which one is your favorite.

Feuerzangenbowle

We already talked about this one earlier, since there’s a whole market dedicated to it, but Feuerzangebowle is another must-try while you’re in Nuremberg! Head on down to the biggest punchbowl in the world to try glühwein which has had a rum-soaked sugarloaf placed on top of it and SET ON FIRE.

The easiest way to get lit quick.

Like glühwein, you’ll need to pay a pfand, which you can get back one you give your mug back.

Schaschlik 

If you’re getting a little tired of wurst (and even if you’re not), then you’re going to die for Schaschlik. These melt-in-your moth pork and onion kebabs are truly some of the most heavenly things I’ve ever tasted.

They’re located at only one stall in the entire market, and are 100% worth seeking out.

Küchle

Küchle are a bit like funnel cakes, but puffier and more German. You can get them by the town hall with the official Christkindlmarkt seal on them in powdered sugar!

Marzipan

Another classic German sweet in marzipan. Now personally, I don’t love marzipan. I think it’s way too sweet. But when we stopped by a marzipan stall on my tour of the market, we tried some marzipan and it actually blew my mind how nice it was! Not only was it not too sweet, but it was genuinely delicious.

So that being said, handmade marzipan is another thing that you should try in Nuremberg!

Früchtebrot

Früchtebrot, or fruit bread, is a sweet, dark break absolutely filled with dried fruit. You’ll see small loaves of it piled up at many different booths throughout the market!

What to Buy at the Nuremberg Christmas Market

If you’re anything like me, you’ll tell yourself you’re just browsing—and then somehow end up needing an extra bag for all the adorable and uniquely German goodies you picked up along the way.

Whether you’re shopping for gifts or looking to start your own Christmas tradition, here are the best things to buy at the Nuremberg Christmas Market (and why they’re so special).

Zwetschgenmännla (Prune Men)

Only in Nuremberg will you find charming little figures made of dried prunes, walnuts, and wire. These quirky characters—called Zwetschgenmännla—come in dozens of personalities, from musicians to chimney sweeps. They’re weird in the best way and make for truly one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Prices start around €5, and yes—they’re technically edible, but please don’t.

Rauschgoldengel (Golden Angel)

These shimmering, armless angels in gold foil dresses are a Nuremberg tradition dating back centuries. Legend says the first one was made by a dollmaker in memory of his daughter. Today, you’ll find them hanging high above stalls and for sale in smaller sizes as tree toppers or ornaments.

Glühwein Mugs

Each year, the Nuremberg Christmas Market releases a new collectible mug design, making them one of the most affordable (and useful!) souvenirs you can take home. Just pay the pfand deposit when you order your glühwein, and if you fall in love with the mug—keep it.

Ornaments

Look out for delicate wooden or straw ornaments, hand-carved nativity scenes, and glittering glass baubles. Many vendors have been crafting these pieces for generations, and it’s hard not to get caught up in their intricate, old-world charm.

Body Butter & Soap

A little bit less traditional, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Dr. Röska, the body butter and soap stall run by a charming old German man full of knowledge about what can help with your specific skin problems and who refuses to sell out to the big guys.

He’s had a stand at the Nuremberg Christmas Market for more than a decade now, and it’s definitely one you’ll want to check out!

Local Specialties

At the Original Regional Market, you’ll find gifts made with love by Franconian producers—honey, herbal schnapps, fruit preserves, beeswax candles, and more. Perfect for foodie friends or just treating yourself.

Top tip: If you’re planning to visit several Christmas markets in Germany, pace yourself on the shopping. But if you fall in love with something in Nuremberg, buy it—many of these treasures are only made and sold here.

Nuremberg Christmas Market FAQs

Still planning your trip? Here are answers to the most common questions people have about visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market—because when it comes to Christmas magic, the more prepared you are, the more glühwein you can drink stress-free.

Final Thoughts on the Nuremberg Christmas Market

If you’ve made it this far, then you’re already halfway to sipping glühwein under the twinkling lights of Germany’s most beloved Christmas market. And honestly? I’m so excited for you.

There’s something incredibly special about Nuremberg at Christmastime. It’s not just the scent of bratwurst on the breeze or the delicate shimmer of the Rauschgoldengel overhead. It’s the feeling of standing in the middle of the Christkindlesmarkt, bundled up in a scarf, cheeks rosy from the cold—and realizing that this tradition has been alive for centuries, and you’re now part of it.

Whether you’re coming for a weekend or weaving Nuremberg into a full-on Christmas market train trip, you’ll find yourself completely enchanted by the city’s timeless charm and heartwarming holiday spirit.

So grab that glühwein mug. Spin the golden ring at the Schöner Brunnen. Hunt down the perfect Zwetschgenmännla. And let yourself get swept up in the wonder of it all.

And if you’re planning a full festive itinerary through Germany, don’t miss my other Christmas market guides for Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Regensburg—each with its own kind of magic (and yes, even more amazing food).

Frohe Weihnachten, friend. May your holiday travels be cozy, joyful, and just the right amount of sparkly.

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