Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: gingerbread and the Christ Child

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt on the Hauptmarkt is one of the world's most famous Christmas markets. Its red-and-white striped stalls, the smell of grilled sausages and gingerbread, and the opening speech by the Christkind make it a true classic.

Fun facts

• The market has been documented since the 17th century, with roots in the 16th.
• It is opened by the Christkind, a young local woman, reciting a prologue from the Frauenkirche balcony.
• Nuremberg Lebkuchen gingerbread has protected geographical status.

What to see

• The Christkind's opening ceremony at the Frauenkirche.
• The Market of the Sister Cities with stalls from Nuremberg's twin towns.
• The Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg) above the old town.

What to taste

• Drei im Weggla: three small Nuremberg sausages in a bread roll.
• Elisenlebkuchen, the finest local gingerbread with little or no flour.
• Feuerzangenbowle, mulled wine with a flaming rum-soaked sugar cone.

What to do

• Look for Zwetschgenmännle, little figures made of dried prunes.
• Visit the Children's Christmas market with rides and a carousel.
• Walk the old city walls and towers after dark.

💡 Tip: The U2 metro runs from Nuremberg airport to the main station in about 12 minutes. Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the heaviest crowds.