Overview
Hauptmarkt is the central square in Nuremberg, known for its vibrant market atmosphere, historic buildings, and the famous Christkindlesmarkt during the Christmas season. It's a prime example of medieval market squares in Germany.
Since the Middle Ages, Hauptmarkt has been the heart of Nuremberg, serving as a central trading hub and gathering place. It's also famous for its Christmas market, one of the oldest and largest in Germany.
Location
Address
Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg
Neighborhood: Nuremberg Old Town
Coordinates
49.447450, 11.076480
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November-December (for Christmas market), April-October (for pleasant weather)
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, occasional rain
- • Spring flowers
- • Easter market
summer
Warm to hot, occasional thunderstorms
- • Outdoor dining
- • Evening events
autumn
Cool, crisp air, occasional rain
- • Autumn colors
- • Harvest products
winter
Cold, occasional snow
- • Christmas market
- • Holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather before visiting
- Book accommodations early for Christmas market season
- Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low (easy walking)
- • Crowded areas can be challenging for those with mobility issues
- • Pickpockets in crowded areas
Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals and pharmacies available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, Walking shoes or comfortable sneakers, Revealing clothing (for church visits nearby), Heavy backpacks in some shops
Booking Tips
- • For Christmas market: 2-3 months in advance, otherwise not needed
- • Official tourism website or trusted online platforms
- • Varies by booking platform, check terms and conditions
- • Not typically needed, but consider visiting early in the day
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Nuremberg Tourist Info
Size: 35 MB
Features: Interactive map, Event calendar, Nearby attractions, Restaurant guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Main square, cafes, and restaurants
Charging Stations: Cafes and restaurants, visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Nuremberg Airport (NUE)
Distance: 7 km
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1-2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Hauptmarkt is the heart of Nuremberg, offering a mix of history, culture, and local products. It's a place to meet friends, shop, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Historical Significance: Hauptmarkt has been a central trading hub since the Middle Ages. The square witnessed many historical events, including imperial diets and markets.
Insider Tips
- Visit the Christmas market on weekdays for fewer crowds
- Try the traditional 'Lebkuchen' (gingerbread) from local stalls
- Explore the nearby Albrecht Dürer House for a glimpse into the life of the famous artist
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Nuremberg sausages (Nürnberger Bratwurst) from a market stall
- • Visit the Christmas market for unique handmade crafts
- • Explore the nearby Nuremberg Castle for panoramic views
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: German, English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Schöner Brunnen
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for soft light
Tips: Capture the intricate details of the well
Result: Stunning architectural photography
Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady)
Best Time: Golden hour for warm lighting on the church facade
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the entire church
Result: Breathtaking historical architecture
Christmas market stalls
Best Time: Evening for festive lights
Tips: Low-angle shots to capture the lively atmosphere
Result: Magical winter wonderland scenes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Nuremberg Castle (Kaiserburg)
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7-10 min
Type: Historical Site
Germanisches Nationalmuseum
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Museum
Albrecht Dürer House
Distance: 400m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Historical Site
Nuremberg Zoo
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min or 10 min by tram
Type: Zoo
St. Lorenz Church
Distance: 600m
Walking: 8-10 min
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 2,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit the Christmas market for a magical experience"
- "Try the local Nuremberg sausages"
- "Explore the nearby castle for panoramic views"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (20)
Nuremberg WWII Tour, Courtroom 600 and 3rd Reich Sites
Nuremberg World War II
Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour
Nuremberg World War 2 and Beer Tasting Tour
PRIVATE Nuremberg Trials & Rally Grounds Tour
PRIVATE Rothenburg Day Tour from Nuremberg (Product code: 87669P20)
Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town
Dachau Concentration Camp Private Tour
Nuremberg - Old town Historic Walking tour
PRIVATE Nuremberg Old Town Walking Tour (Product code: 87669P17)
PRIVATE - Nuremberg Combo Tour WWII + Old Town
Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg
PRIVATE Bamberg Day Tour from Nuremberg (Product code: 87669P19)
Nuremberg tour - Half day
PRIVATE Nuremberg Highlights Tour (Product code: 87669P12)
Nuremberg World War 2 and Puma and Adidas Factory Outlet
Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Frankfurt or Frankfurt to Nuremberg
PRIVATE Nuremberg WW2 and Old Town Day Tour (Product code: 87669P16)
PRIVATE Nuremberg Nazi Party Rally Grounds Walking Tour (Product code: 87669P13)
PRIVATE Nuremberg WW2 and Beer Tour (Product code: 87669P14)
Quick Info
Available Tours
26
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
2,500
Adult Entry
Free (market stalls and shops have individual prices)