For Brits seeking an authentic and enchanting festive escape, a stunning German Christmas market located less than two hours away by flight offers the perfect winter getaway, and it's not the expected destination of Berlin.
A Festive Wonderland in Nuremberg
Germany is world-renowned for its spectacular Christmas markets, where city streets transform into magical winter wonderlands. While Berlin boasts over 60 such markets, one of the country's most historic and celebrated events often flies under the radar for UK travellers: the Nuremberg Christmas Market, or Christkindlesmarkt.
This legendary market is one of the oldest and most famous in the world. Each year, the main square is filled with a 'little city of wood and cloth' – a collection of traditional wooden chalets bathed in the glow of colourful, sparkling lights. The air is thick with the inviting aromas of gingerbread and Spekulatius almond cookies, creating an unforgettable festive atmosphere.
What to See, Eat, and Do
The market itself is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring around 180 wooden stalls decorated with distinctive red and white cloths. Visitors can browse a diverse array of traditional gifts, from intricate Christmas decorations and handmade wooden figures to delicate glass globes, miniature buildings, cosy alpaca wool socks, unique jewellery, plant-based body care products, homemade honey, and spiced candles.
When hunger strikes, there is an abundance of festive fare to choose from. Must-try items include the famed Nuremberg bratwurst, other roast sausages, hearty potato fritters, and the warming Feuerzangenbowle – a traditional punch. For those with a sweet tooth, the city's specialities include gingerbread, blueberry mulled wine, chocolate gold coins, stollen, and cherry cobbler served in a jar.
Beyond the market stalls, the city of Nuremberg comes alive with festive events. Visitors can enjoy live music, special Christmas exhibitions, and traditional church services. A major highlight for families is the dedicated 'Christmas City' for children, located next to the main market. This area features a two-tiered merry-go-round, a mini Ferris wheel, and a charming steam railway.
Younger guests can also participate in activities like baking and decorating teddy bears or hearts made from honey cake dough. Children are encouraged to write letters to Santa and post them at a special mini post office, or try their hand at candle-making in the festively decorated mini houses.
Planning Your Festive Trip
The market operates on a cherished yearly tradition. The opening ceremony takes place on the Friday before the first day of Advent, which this year falls on November 28 at 5:30pm. The event sees the Main Market Square filled with people, the sound of trumpets and choir singers, the illumination of the Christmas lights, and a prologue recited by the Nuremberg Christkind under the spotlight.
The Nuremberg Christmas Market will be open from November 29 until December 24, giving travellers plenty of opportunity to experience the magic.
Nuremberg itself, the largest city in the Franconia region of Bavaria, offers much to explore beyond the market. Visitors can wander through the picturesque Old Town, visit the medieval Imperial Castle, take guided tours of the city's fascinating underground passages, or sample the bustling local nightlife.
Getting there is both easy and affordable. Direct flights from London to Nuremberg take just 1 hour and 45 minutes, with prices starting from an incredible £15. For accommodation, the Park Plaza Nuremberg hotel, conveniently located near the Christmas market, offers rooms from approximately £58 per night.
