At Christmas time, Maximiliansplatz in Bamberg's pedestrian zone is transformed into a pre-Christmas festival site. In the middle of the old town with its illuminated and decorated stores and streets, it smells of roast sausages and roasted almonds, mulled wine and gingerbread. Toys and glass baubles hang from the market stalls, children's eyes are glued to the displays. You'll find arts and crafts and high-quality decorations, as well as practical items for the Christmas season.