Nuremberg Christmas Market: Enjoy a Festive Journey of Discovery

The enchanting Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) is a timeless winter wonderland that traces its roots back to the mid-16th century. The first written record of the market was found on a small wooden shavings box from 1628, which is now in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. The market has evolved over the centuries to reflect local traditions and, during the Reformation, it became part of the Advent celebrations.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the market expanded to include Christmas-tree decorations, golden angels, gingerbread figures and traditional wooden toys crafted using techniques passed down through generations.

The Christkindlesmarkt was revived in the aftermath of the Second World War. The city’s old town may have been destroyed but the market’s revival symbolised hope and rebirth. Written for this moment in 1948, playwright Friedrich Bröger's prologue for the Christ Child remains an integral part of the market’s opening ceremony: "The Christkind invites you to its market, and all who come are welcome."

The Nuremberg Christmas Market is more than just a festive event, it is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Held predominantly in the Hauptmarkt, the central square of Nuremberg’s old town, visitors to the market are surrounded by historic landmarks such as the Rathaus (City Hall) and the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady).

The market reflects Nuremberg’s artisanal past and visitors can expect to find curiosities like Nuremberg Plum People (small figures or dolls made from prunes), handcrafted ornaments and traditional wooden stalls selling all manner of food, drink and carved toys. The market fosters community spirit and is a focal point for family gatherings. There's also been a recent shift to adopt more sustainable practices, such as prioritising locally sourced food and handicrafts. This helps preserve the region's Bavarian heritage while also allowing it to adopt more contemporary values.

The Nuremberg Christmas Market usually opens on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent and runs until December 24. One of the market's most cherished traditions is the reading by the Christkind or Christ Child. The role of the Christ Child is played by a local woman who is selected by public invitation and then a casting process. The Christkind is a symbol of the Christmas spirit and has been a part of the market's opening ceremony since 1933.

As the lights around the Hauptmarkt dim, thousands gather in anticipation. The Christ Child, dressed in gold, appears in the gallery of the Frauenkirche. She then recites Bröger's festive prologue from the church balcony that invites everyone to the market. The invitation encapsulates the festive spirit of the Nuremberg Christmas Market. It is followed by the sound of trumpets, a choir singing Silent Night and the ringing of church bells. Brass bands then fill the air with festive music to create a magical atmosphere for all the family.

The market is a sensory delight where visitors can absorb the aroma of traditional German treats like Nuremberg sausages (Nürnberger Bratwürste), which are usually served three to a roll with a side order of sauerkraut or potatoes. Lebkuchen is a soft local gingerbread that comes in a variety of flavours, and no visit to the Christmas market would be complete without a mulled wine (glühwein) served in a decorative mug. If you prefer beer, Nuremberg's Winter Wärmer is produced by local brewery Hausbrauerei Altstadthof. If you're planning to enjoy a mug or two, make sure that you have a taxi booked or you've planned your route back to your hotel (book a central one like the Novotel Nuernberg Centre Ville, only 1.2km from the Frauenkirche) via public transport or on foot.

The Christkindlesmarkt isn’t just for adults though. In the cosy Hans Sachs Platz, there’s a special section for children called the Kinderweihnacht (Children’s Christmas Market). Little ones can enjoy merry-go-rounds, a steam train, Ferris Wheel and all sorts of child-friendly arts and crafts, including workshops and interactive activities like baking.

The Sister Cities Market on Rathausplatz, about a minute's walk from the main market, has 24 stalls packed with food from Nuremberg's sister cities around the world, including shortbread from Glasgow, hot apple cider with whiskey from Atlanta, and nesting dolls from Kharkiv. Opened in 1986, this market adds a little global appeal to the main event. There are also several booths run by Saint Sebald Church, where you can find locally produced treats like handmade soap and beeswax candles, as well as jams, preserves and honey. A short walk takes you to Feuerzangenbowle Village and the largest punch bowl in the world, brimming with warm red wine and rum.

As well as culinary delights, the market sells a huge range of souvenirs and gifts for tourists and other visitors. From handmade Christmas decorations to traditional German crafts, each piece showcases the city's unique culture.

Most of the market stalls are open from 10am to 9pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 7pm on Sundays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening because the busiest time is mid-afternoon when the lights come on. For the opening ceremony, however, it's best to arrive by about 4:30pm so you can find some space outside the church to listen to the prologue.

Nuremberg has a very efficient public transport system. To get to the Hauptmarkt, hop on the U-Bahn's (subway) U1, U2 or U3 lines and disembark at Lorenzkirche or Hauptbahnhof. Bus lines 36, 37 and 43 also stop near the market. If you're staying nearby, walking is the best option because it allows you to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. It also gives you time to stop at the stalls and enjoy the bratwürste, lebkuchen and glühwein.

There are several underground car parks near the old town. The closest options include the Tiefgarage Hauptmarkt and the Parkhaus Altstadt. Due to the market's popularity, however, it's best to use public transport whenever possible.

If you're staying for a couple of days and want to do some sightseeing, the city's Nuremberg Card gives visitors free admission to the museums and free travel on public transport for two days for just €33.

Not all the stalls accept credit cards and, of those that do, most have a minimum spend so it's worth taking cash with you. You may also have to pay a few euros for the cup when you buy mulled wine – they're branded with the Nuremberg Christmas Market logo and are great souvenirs.

Many travel platforms offer customisable packages that allow you to combine your visit to the Nuremberg Christmas Market with trips to historic sites like the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, the Albrecht Dürer House, the Opera House or the Toy Museum.

When researching a tour package, choose an option that includes a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the market’s history, local holiday traditions and the best stalls for souvenirs, food and artisanal goods. Some packages also offer transport from nearby cities like Munich, ideal if Nuremberg isn’t your main destination.

• Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, Burg 17, 90403 Nuremberg, Germany
• Tickets: Imperial Castle combination ticket €9, although children under the age of 18 can visit the castle free of charge. Tickets can be bought online and at the castle
• Opening hours: March 31 to October 6, 9am to 6pm; October 7 to March 30, 10am to 4pm, with the exception of Fridays and Saturdays between November 29 and December 21, 10am to 5pm

Whether you are a first-time visitor or like to return every year, the Christkindlesmarkt is a magical journey into history, culture and festive joy. With its enchanting atmosphere, intriguing experiences and rich heritage, the Nuremberg Christmas Market remains one of the world's most beloved winter attractions.