Nuremberg Christmas Market

European Christmas Market

Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is arguably the world's most famous Christmas market, drawing over two million visitors annually to the historic Hauptmarkt square. With origins dating to the early 17th century, this Bavarian treasure is the gold standard of European Christmas markets.

Each year, the Christkind â a young woman dressed in gold â opens the market from the balcony of the Frauenkirche church with a beloved prologue that signals the start of the festive season. The nearly 200 wooden stalls adorned with red-and-white striped canopies create an unforgettable scene.

Famous for its Lebkuchen (gingerbread), NÃ¼rnberger Bratwurst, and ZwetschgenmÃ¤nnle (dried plum figurines), Nuremberg offers an authentically German Christmas experience steeped in centuries of tradition and Franconian hospitality.

Quick Facts

Essential information for your Nuremberg Christmas market visit

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December Avg

-2-4Â°C / 28-39Â°F

Market Dates

Late Nov - Dec 24

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Flight Time

9-10 Hours

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Budget

Ideal Trip

2-3 Days

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Language

German

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Currency

Euro (EUR)

Known For

Lebkuchen & Bratwurst

Top Experiences

Magical moments at the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

Hauptmarkt Square

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Christkindlesmarkt at the historic Hauptmarkt, surrounded by nearly 200 traditional wooden stalls beneath the beautiful Frauenkirche church.

Nuremberg Lebkuchen

Taste the world-famous Nuremberg gingerbread, a protected regional specialty made with almonds, honey, and spices. Visit traditional bakeries for the finest handcrafted versions.

NÃ¼rnberger Bratwurst

Sample the iconic finger-sized Nuremberg sausages grilled over beechwood â a culinary tradition dating back centuries. Try them Drei im Weggla (three in a roll) from market vendors.

Kaiserburg Castle

Visit the imposing Imperial Castle perched above the old town for panoramic views of the medieval city draped in Christmas lights and dusted with winter snow.

Children's Christmas Market

The Kinderweihnacht features a nostalgic carousel, Ferris wheel, steam train rides, and interactive workshops where children can make candles, cookies, and ornaments.

GlÃ¼hwein & Market Food

Warm up with fragrant GlÃ¼hwein served in collectible mugs while enjoying traditional market treats like Schneeballen (snowball pastries) and roasted almonds.

Best Time to Visit

Planning your Nuremberg Christmas Market trip

ð Opening Weekend

0-5Â°C

The magical opening ceremony with the Christkind's prologue from the Frauenkirche balcony. A once-in-a-lifetime experience with incredible festive energy.

ð Early December

-1-4Â°C

Full market atmosphere with slightly fewer crowds than mid-December. Ideal for a relaxed experience with all stalls open and the city beautifully decorated.

ð Mid December

-2-3Â°C

Peak season with the largest crowds, especially on weekends. Visit early morning or late evening for the best experience. Stunning when snow falls.

â¨ Dec 20-24

-3-2Â°C

Last chance energy with locals doing final shopping. The market closes December 24 at 2pm. A bittersweet finale to the season with deep festive spirit.

Travel Tips

Make the most of your Christkindlesmarkt experience

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What to Pack

Nuremberg winters are cold. Pack thermal layers, a warm waterproof coat, sturdy boots, gloves, and a hat. The market is entirely outdoors in the square.

Getting There

Fly into Nuremberg Airport (NUE) or Munich (MUC) with a 1-hour train connection. The Hauptbahnhof is a 10-minute walk from the Hauptmarkt market square.

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Where to Stay

Stay within the old city walls for walking distance to everything. The area around Lorenzkirche and the Hauptmarkt offers the best location. Book months ahead.

Best Souvenirs

Nuremberg Lebkuchen in decorative tins, ZwetschgenmÃ¤nnle (prune people figurines), handmade ornaments, and collectible GlÃ¼hwein mugs make perfect gifts.

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Photography Tips

Blue hour (around 4pm) is magical for photography. The view from the castle looking down over the illuminated market and old town is spectacular.

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Beyond the Market

Combine with visits to nearby Rothenburg ob der Tauber (the Christmas village) and Bamberg. Both are easy day trips and offer their own charming markets.

Nuremberg, Germany

Quick Facts