Nuremberg Christmas Markets are considered one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Altstadt of Nuremberg, Germany. The market opens on Friday, December 1, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023. The market receives over 2 million Christmas visitors annually, providing an economic and tourism boost. The main market is at Hauptmarkt Square and features over 170 wooden stalls selling traditional foods, ornaments, toys and crafts with the backdrop of the Frauenkirche church and castle. Nearby markets include the Sister Cities Market, which showcases international wares and cuisine and the Children's Market, which offers kid-friendly gifts and entertainment. There are attractions like the Frauentorturm Tower, Lorenzkirche Church and Schöner Brunnen Fountain located right by the markets. The Nuremberg Christmas Markets are conveniently located in the pedestrian-friendly area of the city, making them easily accessible via public transportation like the U-bahn metro system, trains, taxis or on foot.
What are the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Nuremberg Christmas Markets are held annually in the central Hauptmarkt Square of Altstadt, Nuremberg. The Nuremberg Christmas Market has taken place since the 16th century, known as Christkindlesmarkt. The market opens on Friday, December 01, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023, attracting over 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the most well-known Christmas markets in the world.
Nuremberg Christmas Markets features over 170 wooden stalls at Hauptmarkt Square selling traditional Bavarian Christmas foods like Nuremberg bratwurst, mulled wine, roasted almonds and gingerbread. Some artisans offer handmade ornaments, toys, decorations and other crafts. The markets offer a traditional German Christmas atmosphere with festive lights, seasonal music and activities like carousel rides. The market has become a must-see destination for tourists from around the world.
Listed below are the best Christmas markets in Nuremberg
- Sister Cities Market (Markt der Partnerstädte). Sister Cities Market is an annual Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany, highlighting the city's international partnerships. The market opens on Friday, December 01, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023. The Sister Cities Market caters to 150,000 visitors for the month-long event. The market brings together traditional Christmas items and cuisine from over 30 of Nuremberg's sister cities worldwide, including Atlanta, Leeds, Venice and Prague. The market consists of over 80 stalls selling international crafts, ornaments, toys and foods and highlights include ice sculpting from Shenzhen, live music acts and choirs from Krakow. The market is easily accessible via the metro and has parking nearby.
- Children’s Market (Kinderweihnacht). Children’s Market is a Christmas market in Nuremberg tailored for families and kids. The market opens on Friday, December 01, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023 The market is expecting large crowds as it features new attractions. The market caters to 70 stalls. Vendors sell stuffed animals, toys, books, clothing, sweets like gingerbread and food like sausages and pancakes ideal for children, with entertainment from puppet shows, magic, dances and carolers. The market is reachable by metro at Lorenzkirche station, the market also has underground parking nearby. The market provides accommodations for strollers and wheelchairs and the Children's Market provides festive family fun in Nuremberg this Christmas.
1. Sister Cities Market (Markt der Partnerstädte)
Sister Cities Market is an annual Christmas market held in Nuremberg, Germany. The market opens on Friday, December 01, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023. The Sister Cities Market caters to 150,000 visitors for the month-long event. Sister Cities Market is one of the newer and smaller Christmas markets compared to Nuremberg's world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. The Sister Cities Market highlights Nuremberg's international partnerships with over 30 sister cities worldwide, the market brings together traditional Christmas items and international flavors from cities like Atlanta, Leeds, Venice, Prague and more.
The market consists of over 80 festive stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, toys and unique food items from Nuremberg's global sister cities. Vendors from Kavala, Greece, will be offering baklava pastries and halloumi cheese and the San Carlos stall will serve empanadas and Mexican hot chocolate. There will be an ice sculpting demonstration from artists representing Nuremberg's sister city of Shenzhen, China. Live musical performances will take place nightly on the main stage, with acts coming from places like Nice, France and Glasgow, UK. Children's choirs from Krakow, Poland, will also perform traditional Polish Christmas carols on select days.
The Sister Cities Market is easy to navigate through Nuremberg's metro system. Visitors can take the U-Bahn lines U1 or U2 to the Lorenzkirche station and follow signs to the market entrance on Unschlittplatz Square. Travelers from Nuremberg Airport can take the subway directly to the Lorenzkirche stop in just 12 minutes, with ample parking available at the Tiefgarage am Kornmarkt.
2. Children’s Market (Kinderweihnacht)
Children’s Market (Kinderweihnacht) is a special Christmas market in Nuremberg tailored just for families and kids. The market opens on Friday, December 01, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023. The Children's Market expects even larger crowds this year with new attractions and entertainment lined up.
Children’s Market features 70 festive stalls that sell unique gifts and treats for kids of all ages. Vendors offer stuffed animals, toys, books and clothing featuring popular characters like unicorns, dinosaurs, fairies and more. Sweet shops sell freshly baked gingerbread, candy apples, chocolate fruit and other goodies. Families can also enjoy grilled sausages, potato pancakes, crepes, waffles and hot chocolate. Non-stop entertainment takes place on the main stage daily. Shows include puppet theatre, magic shows, dance performances and children’s choirs singing yuletide carols.
The Children’s Market is easy to reach via the U-Bahn subway lines U1 or U2 to the Lorenzkirche station. Drivers can park at the Tiefgarage am Frauentorgraben, a large underground garage 10 minutes on foot from the market. The market is easily navigable for strollers and wheelchairs.
When will the Nuremberg Christmas Markets open for 2023?
The Nuremberg Christmas Markets open on Friday, December 01, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 24, 2023. The market is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm and closes at 2 pm on Christmas Eve.
Where are the Nuremberg Christmas Markets taking place?
The Nuremberg Christmas Market is located in the Altstadt of Nuremberg, Germany. Cities Sister Market will be in Rathausplatz 1, 90403, Nuremberg, Germany and the Children’s Market will be in Hans-Sachs-Platz 1, 90403, Nuremberg, Germany.
Why should you visit the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the reasons why you should visit the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Festive Atmosphere. With the festive atmosphere of the historic Nuremberg Castle as a backdrop, the Nuremberg Christmas Markets features over 180 decorated wooden stalls selling traditional Christmas wares, festive music, delicious foods, drinks and lively crowds.
- Traditional Handicrafts. Traditional handicrafts, such as Bavarian handicrafts and ornaments, can be found at the Nuremberg Christmas Markets, many of which are handmade or locally produced. It is a great place for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.
- Local cuisine. The local cuisine of Nuremberg includes sausages and gingerbread and you can sample these and other Franconian and German specialties like mulled wine, roasted nuts, fruit loaf and roasted almonds at the Nuremberg Christmas Markets.
- Convenient location. The convenient location of Nuremberg is easy to reach by train or plane and the Nuremberg Christmas Market is located right in the city center, making it very convenient to visit and enjoy.
What is the cost of entering the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Nuremberg Christmas Marketa does not charge an entry fee. Access to the market squares and streets is completely free. Visitors can wander the stalls, displays and attractions without needing to buy a ticket. The only optional costs involved would be fees for rides, special events, food, drinks and craft demonstrations. Rides to carousels, Ferris wheels, steam trains for kids and other rides require tickets ranging from €2 ($2, £1) to €8 ($8, £7) per ride. Special events such as live shows, Christmas plays and events in the market require separate tickets ranging from €5 ($5, £4) to €10 ($10, £8) per event. Food and drinks such as Nuremberg bratwursts, mulled wine and other beverages range between €2 ($2, £1) to €8 ($8, £7). Craft demonstrations such as workshops, cookie decorating and ornament making require paid registration from €5 ($5, £4) and above.
What are the attractions close to the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the attractions in Nuremberg close to the Christmas markets.
- The Frauentorturm. The Frauentorturm is a 13th-century tower standing over 35 meters tall and was part of Nuremberg's old medieval fortifications. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and its red-tiled roofs. It is located 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) from the Nuremberg Christmas Markets and attracts 200,000 Christmas market visitors per year.
- Lorenzkirche. Lorenzkirche is a church built in the 14th century with tall twin spires. The interior has beautiful stained glass windows and a star vaulting on the ceiling. Musical concerts are often held here during the Christmas market. It is 0.3 km (0.2 miles) from the Nuremberg Christmas Markets and receives around 150,000 Christmas market visitors annually.
- Frauenkirche. Frauenkirche was built in the 14th century and sits right on the main market square, making it the iconic backdrop to the Christmas market festivities. Its most prominent features are the clock on its facade and the golden crown on the top of its tower. It offers daily prayers and mass for visitors. It is located right in the Nuremberg Christmas Market itself and sees over 300,000 Christmas market visitors per year.
- Schöner Brunnen. Schöner Brunnen is a 14th-century fountain that stands in the middle of the Hauptmarkt square. The 60+ foot tall fountain provides a regal atmosphere in the Christmas market, with festive lights and decorations surrounding it. It is located right at the Nuremberg Christmas Market itself, with over 50,000 Christmas market visitors per year.
Is there an alternative name for the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Yes, the Nuremberg Christmas market is known as “The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt”. Christkindlesmarkt translates to “Christ Child Market” in English. This alternative name stems from the long-standing Nuremberg tradition of having a Christkind, an angelic messenger or “Christ Child” – officially open the city's Christmas market each year.
What are the Nuremberg Christmas Market's impacts on the Local Economy and Tourism?
Nuremberg Christmas Market has a significant positive impact on the local economy and tourism in Nuremberg. These are economic boosts, support for local businesses, increased tourism, promoting international awareness of Nuremberg, providing employment and preserving tradition. The market attracts Christmas market visitors which boost the economic activity of Nuremberg. The market offers opportunities for local small businesses and artisans to sell their products. The market draws tourists from all over the world, greatly increasing visitation to Nuremberg in the winter season. The popularity of the market as a must-see Christmas destination puts Nuremberg on the map internationally and builds brand awareness of the city globally. The market creates many seasonal jobs for locals needed as vendors, staff and supporting industries like hotels, tour guides, restaurants and transportation. The centuries-old tradition of the Christkindlesmarkt helps maintain cultural heritage and traditional crafts that support artisans and producers.
Are the Nuremberg Christmas Markets better than the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Yes, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is better than the Stuttgart Christmas Market in terms of history, market experience and accessibility. Nuremberg has been hosting Christmas markets since the 16th century, which makes it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany. The condensed area in Hauptmarkt creates a festive shopping zone with less spread-out crowds. The Nuremberg Christmas market is located primarily in central Hauptmarkt Square, which makes navigating the market easier.
What food can visitors eat at the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the foods visitors can eat at the Nuremberg Christmas Markets.
- Nuremberg Bratwurst. Nuremberg Bratwurst is thin, small pork sausages grilled over a wood fire pit right in front of you at the Nuremberg Christmas market stalls. They are flavored with marjoram and served hot in a bun or with sauerkraut. It is a must-try German food at Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Lebkuchen. Lebkuchen is a traditional gingerbread in Nuremberg. The cookies are made with a dense honey dough and coated with chocolate or powdered sugar. Heart-shaped lebkuchen are popular Christmas gifts and are displayed at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Stollen. Stollen are German fruitcakes packed with nuts, spices and candied fruit. The loaf-style cakes are dusted with powdered sugar by local stalls at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Reibekuchen. Reibekuchen are fried potato pancakes topped with applesauce, sugar or other sweet toppings. They are served at stalls in the Nuremberg Christmas market, where they are made fresh to order.
- Flammkuchen. Flammkuchen are thin-crust German pizzas that are topped with cream, onions, bacon and cheese and then baked fresh on-site. The crisp warm flatbread is an ideal snack. Flammkuchen stands can be found all over the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
What to drink at the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the drinks you can have at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Glühwein (Mulled Wine). Glühwein is a traditional hot spiced red wine that is a must-have drink at any European Christmas market. Glühwein is available at the Nuremberg Christmas markets. It is usually served in commemorative mugs that you can take home.
- Feuerzangenbowle (fire tongs punch). Feuerzangenbowle is a potent rum-based drink that features a flaming sugarloaf that caramelizes into the wine and rum mixture. You can get a delicious cup of this drink at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Heisser Cafe Amaretto. Heisser Cafe Amaretto is espresso coffee with amaretto liqueur, whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. It is a deliciously warming drink while browsing the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Jagertee. Jagertee is a tea made from black tea, rum, cloves, cinnamon and lemon that packs a punch. It is especially good after time outdoors and is served at Nuremberg Christmas market stalls.
What can people buy at the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the things you can buy at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Wooden Nutcrackers. Wooden Nutcrackers are traditional Christmas decorations, often carved into figures like toy soldiers or kings. Vendors at the Nuremberg Christmas markets sell nutcrackers of different sizes, shapes and colors. Nutcrackers make unique collectible gifts.
- Christmas Ornaments. Christmas Ornaments are decorative objects used to adorn Christmas trees and homes during the holiday season. Ornament stalls at the Nuremberg Christmas markets offer a variety of glass, wooden and handcrafted ornaments featuring Christmas symbols and designs. These make for great holiday souvenirs and gifts.
- Smoking men. Smoken men are fun incense burners made of wood carved into the shapes of men sitting and smoking ornate pipes. The smoke puffs out of the pipe's bowl. It is available in different styles like policemen, professors or woodchoppers and can be purchased at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Pyramids. Pyramids are towering wood pyramids up to 8 feet tall and have tiers of rotating spires and figurines like angels. They are often illuminated from within by electric candles or LEDs. These pyramids are displayed at the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
How to get to the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
There are four ways to get to the Nuremberg Christmas market. These are by plane, train, metro, taxi and on foot. Firstly, by plane, the Nuremberg Airport (NUE) is located 5 kilometers (3.10 miles) North of the city center. It offers nonstop flights from major European hubs. The U-bahn metro provides direct service from the airport to the Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof central station. Secondly, by train, Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof is a major train hub with extensive connections across Germany and Europe. Regional trains connect to Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin, Prague and more. The station is right in the city center near the Christmas market. Thirdly, by public transit, Nuremberg has an extensive metro, bus and tram network. The U-bahn subway provides quick access from the Hauptbahnhof station to stations like Lorenzkirche within walking distance of the market. Fourthly, by taxi, Taxis and services like Uber are readily available from the airport, train station and around Nuremberg. Taxis from the airport to the city center. Lastly, on foot, the Nuremberg Christmas markets are located in the central Hauptmarkt square and surrounding Altstadt. All nearby hotels and public transit stations are within easy walking distance.
Where to stay in Nuremberg during the Nuremberg Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the best hotels to stay near the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Hotel Victoria. Hotel Victoria is housed in a historic building dating back to the 19th century. It is the closest hotel at 0.9 kilometers (0.6 miles) to the Nuremberg Christmas markets. This hotel is the best stay in Germany as it is a convenient place to explore the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
- Azimut Hotel Nuremberg. Azimut Hotel Nuremberg is 1.4 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the Nuremberg Christmas markets. This hotel features spacious, contemporary-styled rooms, minibars, an indoor pool, a sauna and a fitness center. With amenities for both leisure and business, Azimut Hotel offers both amenities and leisure, ideal for a well-rounded Nuremberg stay.
- Leonardo Hotel. Leonardo Hotel offers affordable rates and the proximity to the Nuremberg Christmas market makes this a great value hotel. It is a quick tram ride from the Nuremberg Christmas market at 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles). The hotel features on-site dining, fitness facilities and sleek rooms with WiFi. Leonardo Hotel is one of the top options to stay in Nuremberg while visiting the Christmas market.
What are the best restaurants to eat in Nuremberg?
Listed below are the best restaurants to eat in Nuremberg.
- Lamore da Massimo. Lamore da Massimo is an Italian restaurant that serves homemade pasta, seafood and premium cuts of meat. The wine list features over 200 Italian varieties. Lamore da Massimo is perfect for a romantic dinner with its candlelit ambiance. It is located 0.8 kilometers from the Christmas market. The restaurant's candlelit ambiance makes eating in Germany and experiencing local flavors near the Nuremberg Christmas markets an ultimate holiday experience.
- Phantastic. Phantastic is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers innovative takes on traditional Franconian dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. The 6-course tasting menu provides a gourmet culinary experience. This Michelin-starred gem provides a gourmet 6-course tasting menu at €119 ($215, £173) per person. The dishes feature regional ingredients like venison, chestnuts and apple tarte tatin It is located 1.1 kilometers (0.7 miles away) from the Nuremberg Christmas market. The distance from the Christmas market is easily managed by car, taxi or public transport.
- EL PASO. EL PASO is a Mexican restaurant that features classic Tex-Mex fare like fajitas, burritos and tacos, along with a great tequila and margarita selection. Festive decorations and reasonable prices make El Paso a fun spot for groups. It is located 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) from the market, making it one of the top choices for a hotel to stay near the Nuremberg Christmas market.
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