Nuremberg was my second destination on my 5-day, 5-city German Christmas market tour, and even though I only had an afternoon and one night, it turned out to be such a memorable stop! From charming winter corners to bustling Christmas markets, Nuremberg offered a festive experience I’ll never forget—even in the rain.
Getting to Nuremberg from Munich
Nuremberg is just an hour away from Munich by train, making it a perfect stop on a Christmas market tour. I paid almost €40 for my train ticket, but I later learned about the Bayern Ticket, which allows unlimited travel within Bavaria for 24 hours for just €27 (for one person). It’s a great option if you’re planning to explore multiple cities in Bavaria.
For train schedules and ticket options, visit the official Deutsche Bahn (DB) Official Website.
Once I arrived in Nuremberg, I didn’t need to use public transportation at all. Everything I wanted to see was within walking distance, which made exploring the city even more enjoyable. The staff at my hotel’s reception was so kind—they even drew a walking route for me on a printed city map. However, Nuremberg is very easy to navigate, especially during the Christmas season, as the markets and main attractions are well-marked and close to each other.
Where I stayed? Steichele Hotel & Weinrestaurant
I stayed at the Steichele Hotel & Weinrestaurant, and I absolutely loved it! The room was cozy and comfortable, and the location was just perfect. The hotel is situated on a quiet street, yet it’s very close to the Weißer Turm (White Tower), making it easy to explore the city on foot.
The hotel’s charming atmosphere and friendly staff made my stay even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for a centrally located yet peaceful place to stay in Nuremberg, I highly recommend this hotel. Hotel Website: Steichele Hotel & Weinrestaurant
Starting My Tour at Winter Wonderland
I began my Nuremberg adventure at the Winter Wonderland, a charming corner located near the White Tower (Weißer Turm). This cozy little area was beautifully decorated with festive lights and small stalls, making it the perfect spot to start my tour.
From there, I walked along Karolinenstraße, the city’s main shopping street. The street was bustling with activity, holiday decorations, and festive window displays, which made the walk to my next stop, St. Lorenz Church, even more enjoyable.
Exploring St. Lorenz Church
One of the highlights of my visit was the stunning St. Lorenz Church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The church’s exterior is impressive, but the real beauty lies inside.
I was captivated by the intricate details of the stained-glass windows, which depict biblical scenes in vibrant colors. Another feature that took my breath away was the organ, one of the largest and most stunning I’ve ever seen. Its towering pipes dominate the interior of the church, and the craftsmanship is absolutely incredible.
The peaceful atmosphere inside the church was a welcome break from the busy streets outside. If you’re visiting Nuremberg, make sure to step inside and take a moment to admire this breathtaking landmark.
Nuremberg Christmas Market: A Festive Experience in the Rain
After visiting St. Lorenz Church, I made my way to the Nuremberg Christmas Market, located in the city’s main square, Hauptmarkt. This market is one of the most famous in Germany, and for good reason—it’s a magical place filled with rows of beautifully decorated wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the aroma of holiday treats.
There’s also a Children’s Christmas market nearby, but I skipped it to head straight to the main market. Since it was a Saturday, the market was incredibly busy, and the constant rain didn’t make it any easier. Everyone was walking with umbrellas, which made navigating the crowded stalls a bit challenging.
Despite the rain and the crowds, I still enjoyed exploring the market and soaking in the festive atmosphere. I even had the chance to listen to children singing Christmas carols, which added a magical touch to the experience.
Taking a Break: Karstadt and Starbucks
After getting completely soaked from the rain, I needed a break to warm up. I stopped at Karstadt, a department store conveniently located near the Christmas market, to escape the rain and dry off. Karstadt is a great place to shop or simply take a break from the cold weather.
Location: Karstadt Nuremberg, Königstraße 14, 90402 Nuremberg
Afterward, I treated myself to a warm and cozy Toffee Nut Latte at Starbucks. It was the perfect pick-me-up after a long, wet day, especially since I was still feeling under the weather.
Dinner at Steichele Weinrestaurant
After a long day of exploring in the rain, I preferred to have dinner at my hotel’s restaurant, Steichele Weinrestaurant. The restaurant was much bigger and busier than I expected, but the lively atmosphere made it a great place to unwind.
I enjoyed a delicious beef ragù paired with a glass of house wine, which was the perfect way to end my day in Nuremberg. The food was hearty and comforting, and I was glad I didn’t have to venture far for a cozy meal. If you’re planning to dine here, I highly recommend making a reservation in advance using OpenTable, as it’s a popular spot. Menu is available on their website.
What I Missed: Nuremberg Castle
I wish I had time to visit the Nuremberg Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. However, with the constant rain and my limited time, I decided to save it for another trip. The castle is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views, so it’s definitely on my list for next time!
Tips for Visiting Nuremberg Christmas Markets
Start at Winter Wonderland:
This cozy corner near the White Tower (Weißer Turm) is a great place to begin your tour of Nuremberg.
Walk Along Karolinenstraße:
The festive decorations and lively atmosphere make the walk to St. Lorenz Church even more enjoyable.
Visit St. Lorenz Church:
Don’t miss the chance to admire the stunning Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and the massive organ.
Dress for the Weather:
December in Nuremberg can be cold and rainy, so bring a waterproof jacket, umbrella, and warm layers.
Use the Bayern Ticket:
Save money on train travel by purchasing the Bayern Ticket, which allows unlimited travel within Bavaria for 24 hours.
Take Breaks Indoors:
If the weather gets too cold or wet, stop by Karstadt or a cozy café like Starbucks to warm up.
Book Dinner in Advance:
If you’re planning to dine at a popular restaurant like Steichele Weinrestaurant, make a reservation ahead of time using platforms like OpenTable.
Plan for the Castle:
If the weather is nice, make time to visit the Nuremberg Castle for incredible views of the city.
Final Thoughts on Nuremberg
Even though the rain soaked me to the bone, the festive charm of Nuremberg made it all worth it. From the breathtaking St. Lorenz Church to the cozy stalls of the Nuremberg Christmas Market, this city is a must-visit on any German Christmas market tour.
If you’re planning a trip, make sure to explore the market, enjoy a warm drink, and take in the holiday spirit—even if the weather isn’t perfect. Nuremberg is a city that truly shines during the holiday season, and I’m so glad I added it to my itinerary.
Don’t forget to follow my solo travel account on Instagram for videos and posts about my solo travel trips! Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll share my experience in the third city of my 5-day, 5-city German Christmas Market Tour 🎅✨
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