The 4 Exciting Christmas Markets In Nuremberg Germany 2023
Nuremberg is known as the most famous among the Christmas markets in Germany, and you may be curious about what makes it such an iconic holiday destination.
No biggie; having explored the festive markets across Germany, we can attest that Nuremberg captures the magical essence of the season more than any other and deserves its status as Germany’s most famous and not-to-be-missed holiday destination.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top Christmas markets in Nuremberg and what makes each special, from festive foods to unique shopping opportunities and activities.
We’ll also provide ways to get to each market easily and how to maximize your Christmas market experience in this historic Bavarian City.
The Christmas Markets in Nuremberg
From late November through December, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland, with so many twinkling lights and festive decorations.
We were really in awe of the colorful stalls lined up showcasing different crafts, food, and drinks.
Now, it’s an annual tradition for me and my family to stroll the Nuremberg Christmas Markets.
The city has many Christmas markets to delight all ages, from family-friendly options perfect for kids to more traditional markets aimed at locals and international shoppers alike.
No matter which you choose, Christmas markets in Nuremberg can give you wonderful chances to experience German seasonal traditions.
Family-Friendly Christmas Markets in Nuremberg
Nuremberg winter market is sure to delight families looking to experience the culture of a traditional German Christmas.
From carousel rides for kids to traditional craft booths for parents, they have something special to offer for all ages.
Here are the family-friendly Christmas markets in Nuremberg that you shouldn’t miss:
Nuremberg Christmas Market (Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt)
The Nuremberg Christmas Market, or the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt, is this big-shot holiday spot on Hauptmarkt Square (the main square of the city) that happens every year.
It’s been around since the 17th century and has grown into this massive Christmas market, drawing over 2 million folks each year.
The market is against the Frauenkirche church and has over 180 stalls, all decorated in red and white with twinkling lights, giving off a real festive vibe.
When you go here, you’ll definitely see the traditional decorations in every stall, the lit-up streets, and the amazing smell of baked goods—it was the perfect way for us to spend our Christmas in Nuremberg.
Special Activities
The opening ceremony is a big deal here, where the Christkind (angel-like figure) shows up with trumpets and a children’s choir under the Frauenkirche, setting the vibe for the Christmas market season.
This is also the time when you can witness the entire market light up.
The Christkindlesmarkt has a bunch of stuff going on, including concerts and exhibits, making it a solid, festive time for families and anyone dropping by.
Also, to make your way around this massive market, you can avail yourself of the self-guided tours on the official Christkindlesmarkt website.
They’ve got tours for everyone, whether you’re a Christmas market pro or a newbie.
And, of course, don’t miss out on the food—the highlight of every Christmas market.
We couldn’t resist trying those famous Nuremberg sausages (grilled pork sausages with marjoram flavor).
You gotta try them, usually in a bun with mustard or horseradish.
Also, don’t skip the local treats here, such as their Elisenlebkuchen (round gingerbread cookies loaded with nuts, honey, and spices), Stollen, the Spekulatius (almond cookies), the Kartoffelpuffer, and Gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds)
No holiday celebration is complete without some festive drinks.
One thing that stands out is the Feuerzangenbowle (a stronger version of Glühwein) – a hot punch with wine and rum topped with a flaming sugar cube.
If you’re not into the fire, there’s the Heidelbeere Glühwein, a blueberry wine with winter spices that puts a spin on the regular mulled wine.
And it’s not just about food and drinks. The shopping part in Nuremberg Christmas Market is fun, too.
They have these Zwetschgenmännle – little figurines made from figs, dried prunes, and a walnut head.
There’s also the Nuremberg Rauschgoldengel, which is perfect for decorating your home.
It is a tree-topper tradition with a super fancy design that influenced the Christkind Angel’s look.
And get your hands on the official Glühwein Cup – a collectible mulled wine mug. This is a great souvenir for your loved ones back home.
It is also one of the things that we love here because it keeps cultural traditions alive.
To complete your holiday shopping, don’t miss out on the handmade Christmas stuff and local crafts, such as Bavarian ornaments, lanterns, nativity sets, and German nutcrackers.
A quick tip: Get there early to dodge the crowds and grab your Christmas loot.
Opening Hours
If you’re planning to go, the Christmas market runs from December 1st to the 24th of this year. It opens at 5:30 pm on the 1st, then will be going from 10 am to 9 pm daily.
One thing to note – on Christmas Eve, the market closes early at 2 pm.
Cost of Entry
You are free to visit the Nuremberg Christmas market!
How to Get There
The market is pretty easy to get to as it is just right in the middle of the old town. You can roll in by car or hop on a train or bus.
But honestly, public transport is the way to go since parking is a bit of a headache, especially during the holidays.
If you’re at the main railway station, it is just a short 13-minute stroll to reach the Christmas Market.
Nuremberg Children’s Christmas Market (Nürnberger Kinderweihnacht)
The perfect way to celebrate Christmas in Nuremberg is by visiting the Nuremberg Children’s Christmas Market.
This market has been enchanting folks since 1999, and you can find this spot at Hans-Sachs-Platz, near Hauptmarkt.
Special Activities
Your kids can get to enjoy a retro, two-tiered merry-go-round.
Just a heads up – the merry-go-round has got free rides every Tuesday through Friday at 2:30 pm between December 5th and the 22nd.
So, do yourself a favor and pop by during that time so your kids can get their fill of carousel fun absolutely free!
There’s also a mini Ferris wheel that we think is just the cutest thing and perfect for little kids.
Let your kids also try the steam train. It’s such a simple ride, but it brought my niece so much innocent joy. I’m sure your kids would find it just as magical as my niece does.
The market also has some pretty fun, hands-on activities for kids besides just the rides. They can enjoy painting, cookie baking, and many more.
And it’s not just for kiddos; grown-ups can feel the holiday vibes here with the lively atmosphere, shopping, and tasty food (sausages, waffles, and gingerbread) and drinks.
Opening Hours
The festivity runs from November 23 to December 30, 2023, a week longer than the others.
They’re open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, but push it till 10 pm on December 1.
With the extended hours and all the entertainment, it’s a must-visit during the holiday buzz in the Christmas City.
Cost of Entry
Feel free to visit the Christmas market.
How to Get There
You can take the U-Bahn rail lines and get off at the nearest station, which is the Lorenzkirche station. Then, it’s just a quick walk over to the market.
You can also visit the main Nuremberg Christmas market because it is just nearby—a 3-minute stroll away.
Best Nuremberg Christmas Markets for Local and International Shopping
Nuremberg’s Christmas markets are well-known for their festive charm and one-of-a-kind shopping.
Spread throughout the Old Town, the markets have something for everyone – from traditional German handicrafts to international delicacies.
Here are the can’t-miss markets perfect for snagging some souvenirs:
Sister Cities Christmas Market in Nuremberg
The Sister Cities Christmas Market in Nuremberg is this chill market they have every Christmas.
It’s up north from that famous Christkindlesmarkt on Hauptmarkt square and is a different twist on the usual Christmas shopping scene in Nuremberg.
Special Activities
There are over 20 stalls here. Each booth is from a different city, showing off their traditional goods and foods.
It is like this global bazaar where you can pick up unique items and try out specialties from around the world, like ceramics from Palestine, whiskey cake from Scotland, Chinese jewelry, coffee from Nicaragua, and many more.
We had a great shopping experience here. Be sure to check out the booths selling goods from other cities like Cordoba, Kavala, and Brasov.
You’re bound to find some cool souvenirs and local handicrafts from those places, too.
Opening Hours
The Sister Cities Christmas Market in Nuremberg is going to be open daily from December 1st through the 23rd this year.
It opens up at 10 am and runs on through until 9 pm.
Cost of Entry
No need to worry about entrance fees because you can visit the market for free!
How to Get There
The nearest station to this Christmas market is the Lorenzkirche station. From there, it’s just a quick 7-minute walk to reach the market.
Original Regional Christmas Market in Nuremberg
If you’re into authentic shopping vibes in Nuremberg, hit up the Original Regional Market.
It is right by St. Sebald Church, just a hop away from the main square where Christkindlesmarkt goes down.
Special Activities
This place isn’t massive, but it’s got its own vibe with a bunch of local and organic stuff – less crowded but totally connected to the big Christkindlesmarkt scene.
You can get your hands on sausages, wooly stuff, mulled wines, honey jars, handmade soaps, and beeswax candles here.
It’s like Franconian goods for the last-minute shoppers.
Opening Hours
The Christmas Market is open daily from December 1 to December 23, 2023.
Its hours run from 10 am until 9 pm, giving you plenty of time to browse the stalls and take in the sights, scents, and sounds of the traditional Christmas market.
Cost of Entry
You can visit and browse the goods at the Original Regional Christmas Market for free!
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the market is to take the U-Bahn to Lorenzkirche Station. It’s just a quick 340-meter walk from there.
Helpful Tips for Visiting the Christmas Markets in Nuremberg
Start Early to Beat the Crowds
Nuremberg Christmas Markets open around 10 am. Getting there early allows you to browse more freely before the big afternoon and evening crowds hit.
This is the best time to take photos and sample treats.
Wear Layers & Comfortable Shoes
Packing the right attire is key for fully enjoying hours of exploring Nuremberg’s sprawling Christmas markets without getting chilled to the bone.
With frigid temperatures, especially during winter, we greatly advise you to dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable, waterproof winter boots.
Don’t forget to bring along hats, scarves, and gloves to protect your hands, ears, and head from the cold winter air.
Pack Lightly
With all those crowded walkways, we’d say pack just the essentials in a small backpack or crossbody bag.
That’ll make it easier to squeeze through and navigate those thick crowds that always gather around the popular stalls.
And you can focus more on soaking up the magic of the markets rather than worrying about securing all your stuff.
Other Things To Do Around Nuremberg Christmas Markets
Nuremberg isn’t just about the famous Christmas market. You can take a deeper look into the city to soak in all its history and vibes.
Here are some things to do around Nuremberg Christmas Markets that’s gonna make your winter trip way more interesting:
Go on a City Tour With the Bimmelbahn Train
If you ever find yourself spending Christmas in Nuremberg, hopping on the Bimmelbahn train is a must. We tried it, and it’s like a fun history lesson on wheels.
It is usually a 40-minute ride through Nuremberg’s Old Town, starting at the Market Square.
You’ll catch sight of the Schöner Brunnen, a massive gold fountain standing tall at 19 meters, and roll past cool spots like the St. Lawrence Church, Imperial Castle, and Maxbrücke Bridge.
This trip is like a crash course in Nuremberg’s cultural vibe – short and sweet but totally worth it for the city’s charm.
> Avail of the City Tour in Nuremberg With the Bimmelbahn Train
Explore the Mystical Medieval Dungeons
You gotta check out the medieval dungeons under Nuremberg’s old city hall.
The cellars there, dating back to the 14th century, used to be real-deal remand prisons.
Imagine being stuck in one of those tiny cells, waiting for your judgment.
As you wander through these old cells, you’ll see the original furniture that really speaks history.
And you also get to visit the torture chamber – a place that gives you a creepy peek into the messed-up practices of the past.
For more medieval torture stories, you can go on a guided tour.
> Experience Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour
But fair warning, this place isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. It’s an old spot, so no wheelchair access.
Also, it is not suitable for anyone who gets jittery in tight spaces and kids under ten years old.
And always ensure you have comfy, sturdy shoes for those uneven, cobbled floors.
Experience Fun at the Playmobil Funpark
One of the best things to do in Nuremberg is to visit the PLAYMOBIL FunPark.
It’s like a giant play wonderland for kids aged 4 to 10, covering a whopping 90,000 m².
There are many enjoyable adventures waiting for them, like running, golfing, and climbing.
Your kids can try their luck at gold digging in the Western City or even set sail on a make-believe Pirates’ Sea.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. There’s a water playground, a go-kart course, and a maze that they will surely love.
When it’s time to refuel, you won’t go hungry with all the food options here.
The Funpark is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. But it is best to double-check info, especially during the holidays, in case they change their hours.
A quick tip: Pack swimwear and towels if your kids are into the water playgrounds.
> Grab a PLAYMOBIL Funpark Entry Ticket
Which of Nuremberg’s Christmas Markets Stole Your Heart?
The Nuremberg Christmas markets are some of the best in the world, offering visitors a truly magical and festive experience.
With many stalls, festive decorations everywhere you look, delicious food, lively entertainment, and unique shopping opportunities, it’s no wonder over 2 million people flock to Nuremberg’s Christmas markets each year.
Families will especially appreciate the family-friendly options like the Nuremberg Children’s Christmas Market, with its vintage rides and activities for kids.
Shoppers won’t want to miss the diverse Sister Cities Christmas Market, where you can find handicrafts and goods from around the globe.
The exciting events, cozy ambiance, and festive charm prove these markets deserve their reputation as the most famous and iconic in Germany.
