While London and the UK is home to some pretty impressive Christmas markets such as the Beverley Christmas market, the largest one-day Christmas market in the country or the UK’s largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria – nothing beats Germany and its abundance of stunning festive markets dotted across the country.
Germany boasts some of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, rooted in medieval traditions dating back to the Late Middle Ages when winter fairs in the Holy Roman Empire offered practical goods like household items and early festive treats amid the Advent season. In Bavaria, one such historic market stands out for its enduring legacy, transforming a central square into a “little city of wood and cloth” lined with red-and-white chalets, brass angels, and the sizzle of regional sausages under twinkling lights.
One of the oldest and world’s best-known Christmas markets
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, one of Germany’s most iconic Christmas marketsoffers a festive winter wonderland experience just under two hours from the UK with direct flights starting from £15.
This market, held annually in the historic Hauptmarkt square from late November to December 24features about 180 traditional wooden stalls adorned in red and white, selling a wide range of handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats.
Apart from shopping, visitors can indulge in the famous Nuremberg bratwurst, gingerbread, mulled wine, and enjoy special events including a children’s Christmas market with activities like baking, candle making, and merry-go-round rides.
Discover Nuremberg’s medieval history and more
Nuremberglocated in Bavariaoffers more than just the Christmas market. Visitors can explore its medieval Old Town, Imperial Castle, and underground passages, or enjoy the lively city nightlife.
The market’s opening ceremony, known for the Christkind’s traditional prologue, marks the start of the festive season with choirs and trumpet music. The market is highly festive, filled with lights, the scents of spices and sweets, and other seasonal delights that make it a truly magical holiday destination.
Flights from the UK to Nuremberg are conveniently available from London Heathrow and London Stansted, with British Airways and Ryanair providing several direct flights weekly during the Christmas market season. Flights typically take about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a quick and accessible trip for a festive city break.
Nuremberg’s Christmas market promises an unforgettable experience steeped in seasonal joy, traditional crafts, and delectable Bavarian flavors wrapped in the charm of a medieval city setting.
