Looking for an easy day trip from Wurzburg? Head to Nuremberg and its world-renown Christmas Market. Nuremberg, the second largest city in Bavaria, is the traditional capital of the German state of Franconia. Nearly 90% of city being destroyed in WWII, but it still retains a tremendous amount of character. Its pedestrian streets, lovely canal & bridges, and restored structures are a great backdrop for the multiple markets within a market you’ll find here.

Nuremberg’s Christmas Market is known for its famous blonde-haired Christkind, tiny and tasty sausages, gingerbread, and historic ambiance. It’s also widely considered to be one of the best Christmas markets in Germany. And we agree. It was one of the best market towns we visited.

A Market with a Long History

This Christmas market has its origins in the traditional fairs of the Middle Ages. It was first mentioned in a document written in 1628, so it’s at least that old, maybe older. And the people of Nuremberg great take pride in that. Most of the wares sold at the market are made by traditional regional manufacturers, and the 180 stalls are still made of regional spruce. More than 30 of the stalls even date back to 1890.

Some things that Make This Market Special

• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is known for its unique “Christkind” tradition. By tradition, Saint Nicholas was the one who brought gifts to the children every year on December 6th. However, Martin Luther wanted to move away from all Catholic saints, so he came up with the idea of making the Christ Child the focus of Christmas festivities. Over time this angel-like creature became a substitute for the gift-giving Saint Nicholas. Nowadays, the Christ Child is represented by a young blond woman who plays a very important role in the Nuremberg market. She makes special appearances throughout the market season on Tues-Fri at 3pm.
• The main market takes place in Nuremberg’s medieval Market Square. This is where you’ll find hundreds of traditional wooden stalls selling all manner of nutcrackers, prune men and Christmas pyramids in addition to the traditional decorations, socks, gloves and hats that are sold at most other Christmas markets.
• Nuremburg also hosts some specialty markets. There’s a small market for local producers, and a market showcasing some of Nuremburg’s sister cities. There’s also a children’s market, where the counters are lowered to better accommodate little people. In addition to stalls selling toys, this market includes booths for decorating cookies and rides to be enjoyed. There’s even a “lost and found” tree for misplaced hats and mittens!

Local Specialty Foods to try

• Nürnberger Rostbratwurst are finger-sized sausage spiced with marjoram, and they’re a local specialty. The recipe for this delicious treat dates back to the 1300’s, and there’s a reason why this sausage is so popular. They are wunderbar! Drei im Weggla is a staple street food in Nuremberg year around. The sandwich consists of a circular bun that’s cut in half and stuffed with three (drei in German) grilled Nürnberger Rostbratwurst sausages with a charred and crunchy skin. When in Nuremberg, you simply must try a Drei im Weggla. The taste is unique and yummy!
• Nuremberg also has a specialty desert: the Elisenlebkuchen. It’s a round gingerbread cookie, topped with almonds, chocolate or a sugar coating. It’s moist, full of nuts, honey and spices with a little to no flour! It is quiet unique!