
Welcome to the beating heart of Nuremberg’s Old Town — the Main Market Square (Hauptmarkt). This bustling plaza is not only the city’s central marketplace but also a postcard-perfect setting surrounded by colorful facades, quaint shops, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re visiting during the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt or on a sunny spring day, the square is always alive with energy, aromas of Franconian specialties, and the chimes of the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain).
The Main Market is the ideal place to stroll, shop for local produce, snap a few photos, or simply soak up the authentic Bavarian atmosphere. It’s Nuremberg’s living room — open-air, open-hearted, and open to all.
The Main Market was established in 1349, after a devastating fire and subsequent reconstruction of the area. Once a Jewish quarter, the space was transformed into a grand market square by Emperor Charles IV. For centuries, it has served as the hub of commerce and community in Nuremberg.
Overlooking the square is the Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche), built between 1352 and 1362. Its Gothic facade and iconic Männleinlaufen mechanical clock, which performs daily at noon, are must-sees. The ornate Schöner Brunnen, a 14th-century Gothic fountain, is a symbol of good luck — don’t forget to spin the golden ring!
Address: Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany
By Train: From Nuremberg Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), it’s a 10-minute walk or a short ride on the U-Bahn (U1) to Lorenzkirche Station, followed by a 5-minute walk.
By Tram: Take Tram 8 or 9 to Hauptmarkt stop.
By Car: Parking is available at nearby garages such as Parkhaus Hauptmarkt or Parkhaus Adlerstraße.
Visiting the Main Market is free of charge.
However, if you wish to visit nearby attractions like the Church of Our Lady or join a guided walking tour, prices may vary:
Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche): Free entry
Guided City Tours: From €10–€15 per person
The square itself is open 24/7, but market stalls and surrounding shops have their own schedules:
Daily Market Stalls:
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Christkindlesmarkt (Advent Season):
End of November – December 24: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Sundays: until 8:00 PM)
Shops & Cafés: Generally open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, closed Sundays
Don’t miss the noon performance of the Männleinlaufen clock at the Church of Our Lady – a quirky medieval tradition!
Look for the golden ring on the Schöner Brunnen and give it a spin for good luck.
If you’re in town in December, the Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s most magical Christmas markets — book early!
Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful stroll before the crowds.
Try local treats like Nürnberger Rostbratwurst and Lebkuchen (gingerbread) from market vendors.
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