In this article, we will look at the best areas to stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets (include map) and the best hotels in Nuremberg for all budget travelers.
Nuremberg, Germany, is renowned for its magical Christmas markets, which are among the most famous and traditional in all of Europe.
The Nuremberg Christmas Market, also known as the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt, typically runs from late November to December 24th. The market officially opens with a grand ceremony when the Christkind (Christmas Angel) opens the market.
The Nuremberg Christmas Market exudes a fairy-tale atmosphere. The main market square, Hauptmarkt, is beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments. You’ll find countless wooden stalls selling handicrafts, ornaments, toys, and delicious treats.
Nuremberg is famous for its traditional Christmas items, especially its Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (sausages), and Glühwein (mulled wine). Be sure to try these local specialties while at the market.
The market is an excellent place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. You can find handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, candles, and other traditional German Christmas items.
There are various forms of entertainment, including carolers, musicians, and a children’s carousel. You can also visit the Nativity Trail, which features life-size nativity scenes.
The city is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, so you can expect to find intricate wooden figurines, glass blown ornaments, and other handcrafted goods.
Christkind, a young angelic figure, plays a central role in the Christmas Market. Christkind makes regular appearances at the market and even recites a prologue to officially open the festivities.
The market is usually open daily, including Sundays and holidays. It’s recommended to visit during the late afternoon or early evening when the market is beautifully lit up.
Keep in mind that Nuremberg can get quite cold during the winter, so dress warmly. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
In addition to the famous Christmas market, Nuremberg is a historic city with many attractions, including the Nuremberg Castle, old town, the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
Where to stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets?
The best areas to stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets are Nuremberg Old Town, Altstadt – St Sebald, Altstadt – St Lorenz, Gostenhof, Südstadt, and Central station.
With its efficient transportation options, you’ll have no trouble getting around and enjoying all that Nuremberg has to offer.
Old Town is the best area to stay in Nuremberg. It encompasses the areas of Altstadt – St Sebald and Altstadt – St Lorenz that are divided by the Pegnitz River. Staying here puts you within walking distance to the major attractions and Christmas markets.
Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as Nuremberg’s Christmas markets are popular and attract visitors from all over the world.
Map of the best areas and neighborhoods in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets:
How to get to the Nuremberg Christmas Market?
The Nuremberg Airport is the primary international gateway to the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the city center.
Nuremberg is a major hub in Germany’s train network, well-connected to cities like Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin. You can reach Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof (the central train station) by high-speed trains (ICE), regional trains, or intercity trains.
Long-distance buses also serve Nuremberg, providing an affordable option for travel. The central bus station is at ZOB (Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof) near the central train station.
Nuremberg has an excellent public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and subway (U-Bahn). You can purchase single tickets or multi-day passes. The VGN (Verkehrsverbund Großraum Nürnberg) website or app can help you find the right ticket options.
The city center is quite compact and pedestrian-friendly. Many of the city’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot.
6 Best areas to stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets are:
1. Nuremberg Old Town
Nuremberg’s Old Town, also known as Altstadt, is the best area to stay in Nuremberg, especially if you’re visiting for the Christmas markets. Nuremberg’s Old Town is not only home to the iconic Hauptmarkt and Christkindlesmarkt but also rich in history and charm.
At the heart of Nuremberg’s Old Town lies the Market Square (Hauptmarkt), which is known for its beautiful fountain, the Schöner Brunnen, and the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady).
Market Square is a hub of activity, especially during the Christmas season when it hosts the famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt.
Beyond the Christmas markets, the Old Town is home to numerous attractions like the Nuremberg Castle, St. Sebaldus Church, and St. Lorenz Church. Staying in this area allows you to explore these sites conveniently while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Nuremberg is famous for its well-preserved city walls, complete with watchtowers and gates. You can take a leisurely walk along the walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Nuremberg’s Old Town is home to the Germanisches Nationalmuseum (German National Museum), which houses an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, and the Albrecht Dürer House, where the famous artist Albrecht Dürer lived.
You can take a stroll along the Weißgerbergasse, a picturesque alleyway lined with colorful half-timbered houses. Way of Human Rights (Straße der Menschenrechte) is a unique installation consisting of 27 pillars, each representing one of the articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Best places to stay in Nuremberg Old Town for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Karl August – a Neighborhood Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Dürer-Hotel
- Budget ($): Hotel Agneshof Nürnberg
2. Altstadt – St Sebald
Altstadt – St Sebald is a part of the Nuremberg Old Town, located in the north of the Pegnitz River. St. Sebald is named after St. Sebaldus Church (St. Sebalduskirche), which is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The church is dedicated to St. Sebaldus, the patron saint of Nuremberg. St. Sebaldus Church is an impressive example of medieval architecture and features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements. It houses the tomb of St. Sebaldus, making it a significant cultural and historical site.
The district around St. Sebald Church offers picturesque streets, half-timbered houses, and a charming atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
In addition to the church, the St. Sebald district is also home to attractions like the Albrecht Dürer House, where the famous German painter Albrecht Dürer lived and worked.
St. Sebald’s location in the heart of the city also offers easy access to the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, Tiergärtnertor (Thiergartner Gate), and the Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square).
Best places to stay in Nuremberg Altstadt – St Sebald for Christmas Markets:
- Mid-range ($$): Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel FIVE
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Elch Boutique
3. Altstadt – St Lorenz
Altstadt – St Lorenz is a part of the Old Town located to the south of the Pegnitz River. St. Lorenz is particularly famous for St. Lorenz Church (St. Lorenzkirche), a stunning medieval church that dates back to the 13th century
St. Lorenzkirche is one of the most prominent landmarks in Nuremberg and is known for its impressive Gothic architecture, including intricate stained glass windows and sculptures.
The St. Lorenz district is also conveniently located near notable sites in Nuremberg, such as the Nuremberg Castle, the Hauptmarkt (main square), and the historic city walls. This makes it a great starting point for exploring the city’s historic center.
Best places to stay in Nuremberg Altstadt – St Lorenz for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel VICTORIA Nürnberg
- Mid-range ($$): Melter Hotel & Apartments – a Neighborhood Hotel
- Budget ($): Hotel dasPaul
4. Gostenhof
Gostenhof is indeed a popular and charming neighborhood situated to the southeast of Nuremberg’s city center, within a short distance of the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
Gostenhof has its own unique character with plenty of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Staying in this neighborhood can provide you with a more authentic Nuremberg experience compared to staying in more touristy areas.
Best places to stay in Nuremberg in Gostenhof for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Park Inn by Radisson Nürnberg
- Mid-range ($$): Living Hotel Nürnberg
- Budget ($): City Apartment in Nürnberg
5. Südstadt
Südstadt, or the South City, is another district in Nuremberg that you might consider for your stay during the Christmas markets. If you prefer a more peaceful environment to relax after exploring the Christmas markets, this could be a good choice.
You may find more budget-friendly accommodation options in Südstadt compared to the city center. This can be especially attractive if you’re looking to save on lodging expenses.
The neighborhood has its share of local restaurants, cafes, and bakeries where you can enjoy authentic German cuisine and pastries. It’s an opportunity to dine where locals do.
Best places to stay in Nuremberg in Südstadt for Christmas Markets:
- Budget ($): Advantage Appartements Hotel
- Budget ($): Homestay Nürnberg
- Budget ($): Das Falk Apartmenthaus
6. Nuremberg Central station
Staying near Nuremberg Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) can be a convenient option for those who want easy access to public transportation and are looking for a central location.
Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof is a major transportation hub with excellent train connections to other German cities and international destinations. It’s also well-connected to the city’s tram and subway network, making it easy to reach the Christmas markets and other parts of the city.
If you’re arriving in Nuremberg by train, staying near the central station can save you time and hassle, as you won’t need to travel far with your luggage to reach your accommodation.
You can often find a range of accommodation options near the central station, including budget-friendly hotels and hostels, which can be appealing if you’re looking to save on lodging expenses.
Best places to stay in Nuremberg Central station for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg
- Mid-range ($$): Leonardo Royal Hotel Nürnberg
- Budget ($): Art & Business Hotel
In conclusion, Old Town, Altstadt – St Sebald, Altstadt – St Lorenz, Gostenhof, Südstadt, and Central station are the best places to stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets. The Old Town is overall best areas for first-time travelers and for markets.