My first ever experience with a German Christmas market was a visit to the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg. It probably wasn’t the best idea to “start at the top” as I will forever compare all other markets to Nuremberg.
So, what makes the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt so special? Pretty much everything.
Nuremberg’s Old Town is literally postcard-perfect. During this time of year, the city square is filled with wooden stalls topped with candy cane striped roofs and fresh evergreen garlands. You are surrounded by scents of fresh gingerbread and grilled sausages. If you’re lucky enough to experience a snowfall during your visit, the entire scene is enough to bring a tear to your eye.
The products on offer here are renowned for their high quality and craftsmanship. The staff of the Christmas Market Council keeps a watchful eye on the goods being sold by the approved vendors.
You won’t find any plastic imported decorations like those found at many other markets. Prepare yourself for a truly authentic display of German Christmas handicrafts, glass ornaments, and unique toys. The same thing applies to food and drink so your culinary experience will be equally as special. I told you, it’s all special here!
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt Stall Holders actually compete for the best stall design. Since 1981, the city has presented an annual award of gold, silver, and bronze “Prune People” to the winners.
Glühwein is the traditional drink of choice (and my drink of choice) in any European Christmas market. In Nuremberg, the local variety is called “Heidelbeere Glühwein”. It is a Franconian specialty produced with blueberry wine.
Be sure to order at least one serving in a collectible souvenir mug, the design of which changes every year. I always travel with a ziplock baggie in my backpack to store the empty mug after I’m done. It helps to keep the inside of your pack or purse “less sticky” while transporting it back to your hotel.
Gingerbread, or Lebkuchen, was invented in Franconia in the 13th century. Nuremberg became the most famous exporter of what is now known today as Nürnberger Lebkuchen. It is one tasty combination of ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and nuts which makes for a unique flavor that is not found anywhere else.
It is sold in many forms – plain, chocolate dipped, iced, decorated, or dusted with sugar. You have to try them all before you decide on a favorite – well, at least I did.
Nuremberg takes their sausages very seriously. The size and ingredients of their famous pork links were written down back in 1497. The bratwurst can only be called an “Original Nürnberger” if it is produced within the city limits, weighs exactly 23 grams, and is about as long and thick as your little finger.
You’ll find them in local restaurants served on a pewter plate with 6 to 12 pieces. I think the best way to enjoy them is from one of the stalls served “Drei im Weckla” (3 in a bun) topped with a big ‘ol squeeze of German mustard.
You will see Zwetschgenmännle, or “Prune Men”, for sale in many stalls. They are the traditional souvenir to take home from the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. Legend has it they were first created in the 18th century by a poor man who had nothing to give his children for Christmas, so he improvised with a bit of wire and prunes from a tree in his yard. Today these Prune Men come as everything from waiters, doctors, and chimney sweeps to biker dudes on motorcycles.
If you are in Nuremberg for more than a day, try to fit in a side trip to nearby Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This walled village is on the famous “Romantic Road” and seems almost lost in time. The town boasts some of the most impressive medieval architecture in Europe. It is really a magical place, particularly at Christmas. Rothenburg hosts its own historical Christmas Market and is home to the mothership store of Kathe Wohlfart, the premier source for high-quality handcrafted German Christmas decorations.
The Logisitics
Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof is an easy 2-hour direct train ride from Frankfurt or 1½-hours from Munich. There is also an airport (NUE) with direct flights to several European cities.
Located directly across the street from the rail station, you will find the Le Meridien Nuremberg Hotel and The Hotel Victoria, both well located in the Old Town district and an easy walk to the main square and Christkindlesmarkt.
Closer to the market, yet also an easy walk to the rail station, you will find The Hotel Five and The Hotel Drei Raben.
Don’t forget to check out my recommendations on how to choose the perfect hotel here.
