Funny how folks seem to be surprised how busy this square is. It is Nuremberg's Main market Square…read more Throughout the year it is mostly a farmer's market, but also has some local craft vendors and some food trucks/stands. You have your locals shopping for fresh produce and the tourists for souvenirs. In the wintertime, the entire place transforms into one of Germany's most famous Christkindl Markets. If you are there on opening day, you can watch the Christkindl stand high on a balcony of the Frauenkirche, she gives a speech and officially opens up the Christkindlmarket. During said market, you can purchase ay and all things German Christmas. From beautiful blown glass ornaments, to traditional Zwetschgenmaennle (little people made from dried prunes and other dried fruits). Don't forget to drink some Gluehwein, Germany's traditional hot mulled wine. It's sold on every corner of the market and the entire area smells like it. Year around main attractions besides the shopping would be the Frauenkirche on one side and the Schoenner Brunnen on the other end. The Frauenkirche (Church of our Lady), Gothic brick built around 1350 is famous for it's Maennleinlaufen at high noon every day. Some may feel it's not all that, but considering this clock was installed in 1509 and has been working ever since, well, I say that is impressive. It starts by the individual musicians playing their instruments and is followed by seven electors marching around Emperor Karl lV, each turns to the emperor to greet him. The Schoenner Brunnen originally built around 1390 is worth seeing by any means. It is surrounded by a wrought iron fence. Within this fence is a brass ring, which you must turn for good luck. Of course there is a legend that goes with this, but I'm not telling it here. The market place is also surrounded by various shops and restaurants. Check it out and experience and important part of Nuremberg.

We had free time after visiting the castle. The central square is a busy place even during the…read moreweek. Lots if shopping for souvenirs like coco clocks and nutcrackers. Produce vendors with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as a huge selection of dried fruits and some salami. Food vendors of assorted cuisines of sushi, gyros and Mediterranean food. Also many restaurants on the lined the outer perimeter. We shopped some and enjoyed some beer!