Pretty German city with a magical Christmas market known as the 'capital of gingerbread'

Holidaymakers in search of a magical festive retreat this winter might want to venture further from UK borders. The beautiful Bavarian heartland hosts the historic city of Nuremberg, famed for being the birthplace of authentic Christmas Lebkuchen.

Lebkuchen, a kind of traditional German gingerbread, is predominantly savoured during the holiday season. Nuremberg's famous Christmas market, Christkindlesmarkt, will be running from November 29 until December 24. Find everything from traditional Franconian Christmas decorations to blueberry mulled wine and much more.

Pioneering Nurnberger Lebkuchen can be discovered at Lebkuchen-Schmidt, earning the city the moniker "the capital of gingerbread" over time, reports MyLondon. Only the produce baked within the city limits is allowed the esteemed title, echoing how Emmental cheese is exclusive to Emmental.

Furthermore, nestled in Bavaria's Franconia region, Nuremberg is also close to the unique "Elisen" Lebkuchen. Elisen must contain a blend of hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds to qualify for its name.

The city's deep association with gingerbread stretches back to medieval times, fed by trade routes introducing ginger and honey. Local monks allegedly wielded gingerbread recipes and turned to durable honey cake when sustenance was scarce during the frigid months. The evolution of Lebkuchen is evident, with various types available, including chocolaty gingerbread, classic Nuremberg Cinnamon Stars, and the crowned Lebkuchen of 2024—Treasure Elisen.

Nuremberg is renowned for its unique Bratwurst, which is notably thinner and shorter than other German variants. For a genuine taste of Bavarian cuisine, Restaurant Albrecht-Durer-Stube offers dishes such as Kasespatzle, Blaue Zipfel (a