In early December we will be in Munich for four days. for Christmas markets before going to Salzburg for three days. While in Munich, I would like to take a train to another market. I am torn between Nuremburg and Regensburg.
What say you, veterans of these Christmas Markets?
Been to both 4 and 5 times over the last years. I would give my vote to Nuremburg only because it is larger. Both have outstanding booths and items. I will say I done thing Nuremburg lives up to its name. It's nice but way too many places to eat and not enough places to shop.
Sorry it should have said don't think. Sorry
Both cities have multiple free markets. Nürnberg main market is of course the classic. Personally unless I am going there to see the Christkind and buy something special like Zwetschgenmännle or Nürnberger Bratwurst and Lebkuchen I prefer Regensburg. Both main markets can get incredibly crowded. Regensburg gives you some space and several small markets in the old city. The old town is nicely lighted. Many people rave about the pay to enter Schloss Thurn und Taxis Weihnachtsmarkt. I'm happy with the free markets. I would try to visit when dark and first stop a Glühwein. I guess it comes down to personal preference. I've gone to the Regensburg Weihnachtsmarkt almost every year and Nürnberg every 3-5 years.
I don't know if this would suit your purpose, but my sister and I are heading to Munich at the very end of November. We will stay there one night for their Christmas market, then take the train up to Nuremberg, where we will stay for two nights. We will visit the Nuremberg Christmas market but were torn about whether we should take a day trip to Regensburg or Bamberg.
I'm thinking now that we will head to Bamberg's market as it is supposed to be really wonderful. It's such a beautiful city anyway that I would imagine going to the Christmas market there would be a really lovely experience.
I was hesitant to go to Regensburg’s private Thun and Taxis market because of the admittance charge until I talked to someone on my cruise who said it was great. I went and it was fantastic! It is a Medieval theme market on the grounds of a castle so few electric lights but lots of fires and torches burning around the woods. The food is different and the huts are selling hand make items. It is unlike any of the other markets in any surrounding towns or cities. I have been back twice. Early evening is a great time to get the romantic vibe!
If you're going to do this as a day trip you need to consider the transport issue. The markets are best after 1700, when it will be dark and they are all lit up. That means you have to plan on a train that leaves with time to arrive at your lodging when you plan to be there.
Another thing, the main train station in Nuremberg is right across the street from the entrance to the Altstadt, and less than 15 minutes walk into the main Christmas Market in Lorenzplatz. There's a small market just to the left of the gate also, and the Kings Road (the route you take) is highly decorated. The Regensburg Bahnhof is a bit further from the market, you'll go through the park and usually they have booths set up there, and even further from the fest grounds.
Personally, if I had to choose, I'd take Nuremberg. Because it's bigger, there's more to do inside the city walls, and it's one of my favorite cities to walk at night, especially when it's decorated for the holidays.
Another place you may want to consider, not as big, but with a fantastic castle, very pretty old town, and good market that doesn't get the heavy tourist traffic, is Neuburg on the Donau. They have a Wienachtsmarkt and a Kristkindlemarkt, and a skating rink. Check the website, and the dates are different. https://www.neuburg-donau.de/leben/feste-maerkte-und-messen/neuburger-weihnacht
Just superb recommendations! Exactly what I had hoped for. Thank you to all that replied.
