Nuremberg at Christmas: we visited the Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, and the Railway Museum (family ticket, 18 euros). A mulled wine costs 10 euros, with a 5 euro guarantee for the mug.
If you've been following our adventures at the Christmas markets in Germany, you already know that our next destination was Nuremberg. We also changed our accommodation, because transportation between Munich and Nuremberg would have cost at least 200 euros one way for two people. First tip: if you're visiting several cities on a vacation, calculate transportation costs carefully. They can seriously affect your budget.
Nuremberg: from artistic renaissance to connection with the Nazi regime
Nuremberg, the second largest city in Bavaria , has a rich and contrasting history. The city, strategically located on the Pegnitz River, was an important commercial and cultural center of Central Europe. In the Middle Ages, Nuremberg was the birthplace of great artists such as Albrecht Dürer and a center of innovation in printing and literature.
But the city is also linked to dark episodes in history. During the Nazi regime, Nuremberg became a symbol of propaganda, being the site of congresses of the National Socialist Party. The city was heavily bombed during World War II. After the war, the famous Nuremberg Trials, defining for international justice, took place here.
Nuremberg, the city of fairs and traditions
Today, Nuremberg is known for its Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe . Located in the Hauptmarkt, the market is a veritable explosion of traditions, colors and flavors. Hand-painted globes, prune figurines and traditional gingerbread (lebkuchen) are just a few of the products that will delight you. And let's not forget the mulled wine, considered one of the best!
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Children's fairs and Handwerkerhof
Nuremberg hosts several Christmas markets, each with its own charm. For children, there is Kinderweihnacht, a market dedicated to the little ones, with carousels, decoration workshops and Christmas cakes. Surprise: most of the tiribombes were operated by Romanians from Sibiu and Craiova, who work here seasonally.
If you prefer something authentic, explore Handwerkerhof, a small medieval village near the city walls, where local artisans show you how to create traditional decorations.
You can find more images from Nuremberg on my Instagram account.
Prices in Nuremberg at Christmas
Compared to Munich, expenses quickly piled up – not because of higher prices, but because of multiple temptations. Here are some examples:
- Mulled wine: 10 euros (5 euros deposit for the cup)
- Wurst: 4-6 euros at the fair
- Sauerkraut wurst: 9-11 euros at the restaurant
- Beef schnitzel: 20 euros at the restaurant
- Cream of potato soup (traditional): 12 euros at the restaurant
- Beer: 5-7 euros at the restaurant
- Hot chocolate: 3-4 euros at the fair
No matter the budget, Nuremberg manages to create a magical Christmas atmosphere, and its charm makes you forget about the expenses. If you get here, don't miss the opportunity to explore all the corners of this fascinating city!
The Railway Museum (DB Museum), for the whole family
For a break from the Christmas markets, the German Railway Museum (DB Museum) is a perfect destination, especially with children. Considered one of the oldest and largest museums in Europe, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of rail transport.
In addition to the impressive collections of historic locomotives and carriages, the museum also includes an interactive area dedicated to little ones. The playground is a paradise: miniature trains, interactive games and simulators.
Another advantage is the affordable price: a family ticket costs only 18 euros, and the visit lasts, on average, at least two hours. Whether you are passionate about trains or looking for a family activity, the museum combines education with fun.
