Travel Germany: Discovering Nuremberg Christmas Market
Nürnberg Christmas Market at Night
Travel Germany: Discovering Nuremberg Christmas Market
By WAVEJourney
During our first visit to Nuremberg in Bavaria, Germany we were smitten by the Old Town architecture and atmosphere. Not surprisingly, we both also expressed a desire to return and experience the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. This is a Christmas market with roots dating back to 1628; a time when the tradition of Christmas gift-giving to children began in the region. These days the Christmas Market in Nuremberg has evolved into an elaborate celebration of old and new traditions – while still keeping the custom of authentic, regional, and handmade Christmas ornaments and foodie treats alive. Finally, our wish came true in early December, 2014 and we were not disappointed. What’s not to love about being immersed in the sights, smells, history, culture and traditions of a German city with an impressive list of attractions?
Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) in Nuremberg at night
TOP 10 THINGS TO EXPERIENCE DURING THE NUREMBERG CHRISTMAS MARKET:
Enjoy some of our recommended discoveries to include while visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market in the Old Town of this fascinating Franconian capital city.
1. OLD TOWN
Nuremberg Christmas Market at Haupmarkt – Traditional Stall Colors
Located in the Old Town Hauptmarkt (Market Square), the 180 stalls adorned with red and white striped canvas awnings, buzz with the merriment of locals and tourists as they take in the festivities of the season.
2. EAT
Bratwurst at Nuremberg Christmas Market
There are endless edible treats throughout the Nuremberg Christmas Market. Everywhere we turned we were tempted to indulge ourselves. For sweet treats we loved the chocolate covered Elisen Lebkuchen, while one of the most authentic savory foods to try are the delicious Nuremberg sausages. Ask for 3 on a bun and apply a generous amount of mustard. They are delicious!
3. DRINK
Feuerzangen Bowle – Spiced rum hot drink
Wandering through the Christmas Market is thirsty work. Especially when the aroma of exotic spices is wafting in the air, and the weather is cold and wintry. Mulled wine (Gluhwein) is available at various stalls and the mugs make for wonderful souvenirs. Feuerzangen Bowle is also available and is a hot drink made with hot spiced rum.
4. DINING
Albrecht Durer Stube – Restaurant in Nuremberg
For authentic German food at a cosy restaurant with friendly service, we highly recommend making a reservation for dinner at Albrecht Durer Stube.
Another recommendation for dinner is Sebald Bistro near the Castle. The chef at Sebald creates a new menu every day which features Mediterranean and local cuisine.
5. CONCERT
Nuremberg Symphonic Orchestra Play at Advent Concert in the Town Hall
No visit to Nuremberg Christmas Market is complete without attending a Nuremberg Symphonic Orchestra Advent Concert in the Town Hall. Tickets are limited, so should be purchased as far in advance as possible.
6. SHOPPING
Prune People at Nuremberg Christmas Market
The vast selection of unique regional products and handmade souvenirs at Nuremberg Christmas Market amazed us. The prune people were one of our favorite souvenirs – invented in Nuremberg in the 18th century.
7. HORSE CARRIAGE TOUR
Stagecoach at Nuremberg Christmas Market
Take a 10-minute historical stagecoach ride through the Old Town of Nuremberg. The coach is pulled by two Rheinland heavy draft horses and is tremendous fun for kids of all ages.
8. NUREMBERG CHRISTKIND
Nuremberg Christkind
The Nuremberg Christkind is the most prominent figure at the Christkindlesmarkt. The Christkind is the ambassador of Christmas and is revered by young and old market goers – legend is that she brings the children their gifts. Be sure to check the market schedule to see the Christkind.
9. WALKING TOUR
Nuremberg Castle – Sinwell Tower
Take a 2-hour walking tour through Nuremberg Old Town with an expert guide from the Tourist Information Office. It’s a great way to learn the history, see the sights, and burn some calories (or just make room for more treats).
10. STAY
acomhotel nürnberg – Twin Guestroom
acomhotel nürnberg is a 3-star hotel on the outskirts of the city with quick and easy public transportation to the airport and into the Old Town. Save money on lodging so you have more to spend on treats and souvenirs. This hotel is clean, comfortable, has friendly staff, and a 24-hour lobby bar, all at a reasonable price. We’d definitely stay here again.
Note: WJ were guests of Nuremberg Tourism for 3 nights in December 2014, but all opinions, reviews and commentary are our own. Read our full disclosure statement to see our review policy.
