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Nuremberg: Germany's most vibrant museum of history

Impressive, exciting, colourful, mighty and tragic: Nuremberg has reflected German history since the Middle Ages. Protected by the castle, a new spirit enlivened the city at a time when few other places could offer such a quality of life. And the same is still true today.

Nuremberg and its castle: To this day, the city's skyline is still dominated by the mighty fortress built in around 1140 during the reign of Emperor Konrad III. Nuremberg's historical mile ends (or begins) at the castle and features ornately decorated churches, elaborate fountains and the Tucherschloss Museum. In stark contrast, other sites in Nuremberg serve as necessary reminders of the darker years in the city's long history. They include the Documentation Centre at the former Nazi party rally grounds, where the National Socialists staged their vast marching processions, and Memorium Nuremberg Trials, where the chief perpetrators of the Nazi atrocities were tried and convicted in 1946.

Imperial Castle

Former nazi party rally grounds, dürer's house, germanic national museum.

Turning to happier thoughts, December sees the arrival of Nuremberg's world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. Alternatively, there's the Toy Museum, with exhibits dating back to the early modern period. The Germanic National Museum, meanwhile, delves even further back in time. Germany's largest museum of cultural history, it contains 1.3 million fantastic exhibits that document changing times. The locals also show their love of tradition by enjoying the city's staple snack, the Nuremberg rostbratwurst. Records indicate that these delicious little sausages have been served up here since the 14th century. Looking into their history really is a culinary delight.

Discover more

Summer at last: beer gardens, swimming fun, strawberry ice cream, germany's records and bests, the world of german animals: more than fox and deer, "historic highlights of germany", exceptionally green cities: so many parks, such beautiful gardens, shop 'til the train stops: germany's train station shopping centres, explore the surroundings.

Telescope in the Nuremberg castle, view of the city, church, sky, clouds

Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place where the nightlife is intense and the beer is as dark as coffee. As one of Bavaria’s biggest draws it is alive with visitors year-round, but especially during the spectacular Christmas market.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kaiserburg (Imperial castle) & Sinwellturm (tower), N|rnberg (Nuremberg), Bavaria, Germany

This enormous castle complex above the Altstadt poignantly reflects Nuremberg's medieval might. The main attraction is a tour of the renovated residential…

Deutsche Bahn Museum

Forget Dürer and wartime rallies, Nuremberg is a railway town at heart. Germany's first passenger trains ran between here and Fürth, a fact reflected in…

Germanisches Nationalmuseum

Spanning prehistory to the early 20th century, this museum is the German-speaking world's biggest and most important museum of Teutonic culture. It…

Reichsparteitagsgelände

If you’ve ever wondered where the infamous B&W images of ecstatic Nazi supporters hailing their Führer were taken, it was here in Nuremberg. Much of the…

Memorium Nuremberg Trials

Göring, Hess, Speer and 21 other Nazi leaders were tried for crimes against peace and humanity by the Allies in Schwurgerichtssaal 600 (Court Room 600) of…

St Sebalduskirche

Nuremberg's oldest church was hoisted skywards in rusty pink-veined sandstone in the 13th century. Its exterior is replete with religious sculptures and…

Ehekarussell Brunnen

At the foot of the fortified Weisser Turm (White Tower; now the gateway to the U-Bahn station of the same name) stands this large and startlingly…

Lorenzkirche

Dark and atmospheric, the Lorenzkirche has dramatically downlit pillars, taupe stone columns, sooty ceilings and many artistic highlights. Check out the…

Latest stories from Nuremberg

The Christmas markets at Nuremberg and Cologne are worth a visit.

Nov 17, 2023 • 6 min read

How can you pick between the iconic markets in Cologne and Nuremburg? Two locals fight it out for the crown.

Christkindlesmarkt at dusk on 12. December. 2010 in Nuremberg, Bavaria, Germany. It is one of the large christmas markets in Germany.

Oct 29, 2020 • 2 min read

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Nuremberg, Germany

The 950-year old city of Nuremberg (spelled Nürnberg in German ) is still alive with history. It is Bavaria ’s second largest city, about two hours from Munich and a frequent stopover for people on their way to the southern capitol.

This charming city has a castle and whimsical statues and fountains as well as one of the best Christmas markets in the country, but is also well-known for its infamous connection to the Nazi party. There are many highlights of Nuremberg that no traveler should miss — from history buffs and art lovers to culinary travelers and romantics.

Here is the best of Nürnberg.

Walk Nuremberg's Old Town & City Walls

Franz Marc Frei / LOOK-foto / Getty Images

The ideal way to explore Nuremberg’s Altstadt (Old Town) is on foot. Although much of Nuremberg was destroyed during World War II, the medieval old town has been faithfully reconstructed.

One of the main attractions is the original city walls, Stadtgraben (protective ditch), and towers. Not just for show, the walls were first put up in the 11th century and were very effective in deterring invaders. Over the long history of Nuremberg’s fortifications, the city was only ever captured once: in 1945 by the Americans.

The best stretch of the walls to walk is along the west side of the town between Spittlertor and what was once Maxtor. Continue through the Burgviertel (castle quarter) which is filled with its sandstone and timber framed houses. The street of Weißgerbergasse is a wonderful example of the impressive craftsmanship.

Storm the Castle

GettyImages / Heinz Wohner LOOK-foto

What would a castle quarter be without a castle? Kaiserburg or Nürnberger Burg was a royal residence of Germany’s kings between 1050 to 1571. This impressive castle is one of the most important surviving medieval fortresses in all of Europe.

The castle sits atop a sandstone hill presiding over the city. With 351-meter-tall fortifications, visitors can climb up to the observation platform at the castle for panorama views of Nuremberg. Another point of interest in the castle goes the other direction. The Tiefer Brunnen (Deep Well) from 1563 bores down 164 feet into the cliffside. To discover the history of the castle, the Imperial Castle Museum of the Bower showcases medieval weapons and suits of armor.

If you want to stay castle adjacent for cheap, there is a hostel in what was once the imperial stables, Jugendherberge Nürnberg .

Visit the Home of Albrecht Dürer

GettyImages / SeanPavonePhoto

Partly damaged during the war, the house was magnificently restored in 1971 on Dürer’s 500th birthday. It is hard to miss both because of the crowds who gather here, and the giant bunny (simply known as "Der Hase " by artist Jürgen Goertz ) on the street out front.

One of Nuremberg’s most famous residents was the artist Albrecht Dürer. A champion of the Northern Renaissance that lived in the late 1400s and early 1500s, he created some of the first maps of the stars and may be Germany's greatest painter.

The picturesque house he lived and worked in just below the Imperial Castle is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. A master of the self-portrait, his work is prominently on display and the décor matches the time period when he lived here. Guided tours are available in German and occasionally in English for super-fans.

Visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds

GettyImages / Norbert Probst

Adolf Hitler declared that Nuremberg should be “City of the Nazi Party Rallies” in 1933. This legacy still looms large.

The grounds and Congress Hall were never fully realized, but are still an impressive site. Modeled on the Holy Roman Empire, this was the place for major Nazi events and parades with grandstands based on the Pergammon Altar providing seating to watch troops goose-stepping across the grounds. There are hours of newsreel footage that show the grounds during their nefarious heyday.

The development of this location was stalled as the war continued, and completely abandoned as the Nazi party crumbled. It stood as a sad memorial to this time period for decades and is currently under municipal ownership, perhaps forever in partial ruins.

The massive Congress Hall is the largest preserved Nazi building, planned to seat 50,000 people. A Dokuzentrum (Documentation Center) within the hall covers the rise and fall of the Nazi Party.

Memorialize the Nuremberg Trials

Horacio Villalobos/ Getty Images

In the east wing of Nuremberg’s Justizpalast (Palace of Justice) is a museum dedicated to the notorious Nuremberg trials that took place after World War II between 1945 and 1949.

On the top floor, there is a museum about the Nuremberg Trials. Visitors hear about the lead-up to war, individual roles people played, and can even visit courtroom 600. This is where leaders of the Nazi regime were prosecuted for their crimes.

The site is still a working courtroom, but visitors can observe this location between sessions. The easiest time to visit is on Saturdays with tours available in English.

Eat at the World's Oldest Sausage Restaurant

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Nürnberg Rostbratwurst are a very popular sausage in Germany. Each sausage is about the size of a fat little finger, weighing about an ounce and measuring three to four inches in length. Made from coarsely ground pork, the sausages are usually seasoned with marjoram, salt, pepper, ginger, cardamom and lemon powder.

This sausage is under the Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) like the German beer from Cologne , Kölsch , or the Spreewald's famous pickle. More than three million Nürnberg Rostbratwurst are produced every day and they are eaten around the world.

Served everywhere from imbiss stands to biergartens, there is nowhere better to eat this wurst than in the city of its birth. The best place to eat them is at Bratwurstglöcklein im Handwerkerhof. This restaurant has been cooking nürnberger bratwurst since 1313 and is the oldest sausage kitchen in Nuremberg. Wurst are cooked traditionally, grilled on a charcoal grill and served on the classic tin plate with sauerkraut, potato salad, horseradish, fresh bread or pretzel, and—of course—a Franconian beer.

Celebrate Christmas at One of Germany's Best Markets

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (Nuremberg Christmas Market) is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Germany.

Dating back to the 16th century, the traditional market takes place on the cobblestone streets of Nuremberg’s romantic Old Town. Its organizers keep a watchful eye on the tasteful decoration of the wooden huts (no plastic garlands or taped Christmas music allowed).

Add another Nuremberg specialty to your diet at this time of year with Nürnberger Lebkuchen, a unique gingerbread just made here and shipped around the country. Buy some as a souvenir, or look for traditional ornaments like the Rauschgoldengel (gold angel) or Zwetschgenmännle (prune figure).

Circle Old Town on the Mini-Train

If you want to see all the sites of Old Town Nuremberg but don't feel like walking through the cobblestone streets, hop aboard the Mini-Train. The 40-minute loop around Old Town starts in the main market square and passes the Maxbrücke Bridge, St. Lawrence Church, the Hospital of the Holy Spirit, and the Imperial Castle before arriving back at the market. While you enjoy the ride, an on-board tour guide will share stories and histories of various buildings along the way.

Marvel at the Architecture of Weinstadel

W. Meier / Getty Images

Located on the Historical Mile in Nuremberg, Weinstadel is a medieval wine storage warehouse that originally served as a hospital for lepers. A visit to this historic structure is a quick stop in Old Town, but be sure to take a moment to marvel at this perfect example of German architecture in the Middle Ages. Its half-timber frame, sandstone brick walls, and picturesque location alongside the river make it an iconic backdrop for a souvenir photo of your trip.

Go Underground to the Medieval Dungeons

The Medieval Dungeons (Mittelalterliche Lochgefangnisse) are a series of 12 small cells and a torture chamber in the vaulted cellar of Nuremberg's Old City Hall. A testament to medieval judicial processes, the dungeons served from 1320 onward as a place to punish criminals of all ranks and classes in the city. Located on Historische Felsengänge in the Bergstrasse district of the city, Old City Hall offers multimedia tours of the dungeons daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Explore the Germanic National Museum

GettyImages / Neil Farrin

The Germanisches Nationalmuseum (Germanic National Museum) holds the country's largest collection related to German art and culture.

The museum covers everything from toys to armor to scientific instruments in its 1.3 million items, as well as over 300,000 works of art. Among its collection is the world’s oldest surviving globe. Created in 1492, there are stark differences to the globe we are used to today. There is no America on the globe as it had to yet to be discovered by Europeans.

Approach the museum from Kartäusergasse and Straße der Menschenrechte (The Way of Human Rights). This street is a monument dedicated to world peace.

Watch the Clock at the Church

GettyImages / Peter Zelei Images

The Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) is a focal point of the center of the city off of the Hauptmarkt. Gather here every day at noon to see the "Running Men" clock (built in 1509) strike noon and the moving electors pay tribute to Emperor Charles IV.

At Christmas, mount the steps of the church and find the special exhibition of the Christkindlesblick which allows for excellent views from the balcony over the square for a small entrance fee.

Dine in a 700-Year-Old Hospital

GettyImages / grafalex

The Heilig-Geist-Spital Nürnberg (Holy Spirit Hospital in Nuremberg) is a spectacular site overhanging the canal. It is one of the largest hospitals of the Middle Ages, founded in 1332, and is one of few still standing.

It was severely damaged during World War II, but was beautifully rebuilt in the 1950s and is an eye-catching attraction. Step inside the hospital without needing a sick note and dine in the restaurant. They serve traditional Bavarian food in the most atmospheric of environments.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at the Zoo

GettyImages / Helmut Meyer zur Capellen

Tiergarten Nürnberg (Nuremberg Zoo) is one of the largest zoos in Europe at nearly 70 hectares.

Founded in 1912 and located in the Nuremberg Reichswald just east of the Altstadt, the zoo is in a former sandstone quarry. These features have been utilized by the zoo to create natural enclosures for animals like the Siberian and Bengal tigers.

Also to be observed are snow leopards, bison, maned wolves, South African cheetahs, bottlenose dolphins, bearded vultures, lowland gorillas, and polar bears.

Turn the Golden Ring for Luck

interlight/Getty Images

The Schöner Brunnen (beautiful fountain) lives up to its name. Located in the elegant central square of Hauptmarkt , this fountain was designed in the late 1300s to top the nearby Frauenkirche . However, it was so impressive on completion it was decided to keep it within the square to better appreciate its beauty. It even survived World War II intact as it was protected in a concrete shell.

Today it stands 62 feet high and its many golden decorations catch the sunlight. A total of 42 stone statues surround the fountain including Moses and the seven prophets at the top, with a big copper ring on the north side of the fence. Legend says you should turn the ring left three times for luck and locals and tourists all visit to the fountain for a bit of gut Glück.

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Biberach an der Riss
Friedrichshafen
Ludwigsburg
Schwäbisch Hall
Sigmaringen
Villingen-Schwenningen
Hohenzollern Castle
Lichtenstein Castle
Füssen
Neuburg an der Donau
Bad Tölz
Berchtesgaden
Eichstätt
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Kochel am See
Oberammergau
Reit im Winkl
Andechs Monastery
Benediktbeuern Abbey
Ettal Abbey
Linderhof Castle
Nymphenburg Palace
Ottobeuren Abbey
Lake Constance
Starnberger See
Altmühltal Nature Park
Bavarian Forest National Park
Fichtelgebirge
Franconian Switzerland
Karwendel Alpine Park
Görlitz
Lutherstadt Wittenberg
Schmalkalden
Wartburg Castle
Buchenwald Memorial Site
Alpine Road
Romantic Road
Jakobsweg - Bavaria
Mainau Island
Saxon Switzerland National Park
Thuringian Forest
German Sights
Middle Franconia

Nuremberg, Germany

Where is nuremberg.

Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria after Munich and is at #14 for the biggest German city overall.

It has a population of more than half a million in the city administrative area alone and the metropolitan region, which includes the neighbouring towns of Fürth, Schwabach and Erlangen , increases the number of inhabitants to 3.5 million.

Despite the size of the city, Nuremberg really is one of the 'must-see' destinations in the southern part of Germany. It has bucketloads of history and culture and boasts its own famous culinary specialities and events, such as the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market.

Nuremberg - Try These Things To Do

Get a great view over the Old Town Climb to the top of the tower at Nuremberg Castle and take in the panorama over the city with the spires of the Sebald church and Lorenz church and the surrounding countryside.
Munch on Nuremberg's traditional street snack You will see the sausage stands all over the centre of the old city. Try ordering ' Drei im Weggla ' (which means 'three in a bun' in Nuremberg dialect) and you will get three small but very tasty local Nuremberg sausages in a crusty roll. Add mustard if you wish...
Take a train out to the former Nazi Party rally grounds Nuremberg history features a very dark period, but the stroll around the former parade area and lakes is both interesting and scenic. A visit to the Documentation Centre adds background for those who are interested.
Explore the Nuremberg beer cellars Not the 'Bierkellers', although that is a possibility afterwards, but the rock tunnels carved out of sandstone where beer was once stored after it was brewed. The local beer is known as 'Rotbier' ('red beer', apparently similar to Vienna lager).
Visit one of Nuremberg's many museums From the local history of the Stadtmuseum to the motorbikes and printing works at the Museum for Industrial Culture to the art and culture of the Germanisches Nationalmuseum ( Museum of German Cultural History ) to the fun of the Toy Museum.

Nuremberg is a city that will captivate you with its rich history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable hotel or apartment, a trendy hostel or guesthouse, or something in between, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Nuremberg.

Our Places To See page offers a series of shots of the city with short descriptions: Nuremberg Sights

Our culinary specialities page will give you a little bit more information about some of the Franconian delights to be found in the city: Food & Drink in Nuremberg

How to get to Nuremberg

Albrecht dürer airport.

Albrecht Dürer Airport Nürnberg is situated to the north of Nuremberg and connected to the city by one of the U-Bahn underground rail lines. It is just off the Nürnberg Nord junction on the A3 motorway which loops around the city.

The journey on the underground U2 line takes around 12 minutes from the main Nuremberg railway station.

The airport itself is mainly used for holiday flights but there are non-stop services to major destinations around Europe and a number of low-cost airlines using the airport as a base. Website : www.airport-nuernberg.de

Nearest airports to Nuremberg

The airport at Nuremberg itself is obviously the best option - the problem is that the relatively small airport only has a restricted range of flights.

Distance to Nuremberg Airport: 8km Distance to Munich Airport: 159km Distance to Frankfurt Airport: 220km

The other two options listed above are two of Germany's largest airports and are likely to offer all the destinations that any international traveller would need, as well as having good public transport and motorway connections to the town.

Train stations in Nuremberg

Nuremberg's main train station is located to the southeast of the southern section of the old town, just outside the former city walls. It is part of the high-speed rail link between Berlin and Munich and thus has good national and international connections to destinations such as Hamburg, Passau , Karlsruhe and Frankfurt.

Nuremberg has an underground train network which links into the railway station and covers the southern bank of the old town, the airport, the Messe trade show area and stops out in the direction of Fürth.

The Nuremberg S-Bahn regional trains cover routes in a number of directions: for example, north to Fürth, Erlangen and Bamberg ; west to Ansbach ; and south to Schwabach.

Where to stay in Nuremberg

As a large city, Nuremberg has plenty of accommodation options of all shapes and sizes. Those who are visiting the city for the first time will probably want to stay near the historic centre for ease of access to the main sights.

Nuremberg accommodation map

If you know when you are planning to go but haven't decided on accommodation, then use the map below to get an idea of which properties are available and to compare prices during the period you wish to travel.

Enter your proposed dates and use the '+' to zoom in on a location and reveal more properties. Click on the price above a property to see more information.

( Please note that this selection will also include some guesthouses, pensions and self-catering apartments for those who are interested in that form of accommodation !)

Check Nuremberg accommodation availability

Alternatively, if you would like a list of properties available on your proposed dates of travel, use the search box below to find accommodation:

Nuremberg, Nuremburg or Nürnberg?

In English, the proper spelling of the town is Nuremberg, with two 'e's (although Nuremburg is a very common error). In German, the town is known as Nürnberg and the endings of the name can change when it is used as a location description (for example, 'Nürnberger Bratwurst' when talking about the local Nuremberg sausages).

A Brief History of Nuremberg

Nuremberg has enough dark episides in its history that it is something of a relief to be able to start with a romantic legend from the early days.

The first actual mention of Nuremberg (or Norenberc , as it was written then) was in 1050 when a noble Richolf petitioned for the freedom for a serf named Sigena. It is thought that the petition was in order to marry and to legitimise their children and the line of succession. The date of the petition, July 16, is considered the city birthday.

To be more realistic, there is evidence of settlement going back before that time, with archaeological finds from the 9th century. Although there were probably people living in the general area, the specific location of where the city now stands was unsuitable because of the potential of flooding from the Pegnitz river and the fact that the open sandy ground was hard to farm on.

Nonetheless, the hill where Nuremberg Castle now stands was a good defensive site and it seems that there were a number of inhabitants clustered around early fortifications by the middle of the 11th century, which was when the town received the right to hold a market, the right to mint its own coins and the right to levy tolls on goods passing through the area.

Some of the timber-framed houses in the former leather-tanning area of the old town of Nuremberg

These were all major steps for a settlement to achieve on the way to economic growth in the Middle Ages and, by the middle of the 11th century, Nuremberg had grown important enough to host an Imperial Palace (a 'Kaiserpfalz'). These were stops along the way for the Holy Roman Emperor, who had no territory which he could call his own.

Even though there was no imperial capital, Nuremberg had a good argument to be the unofficial centre of the Empire, with the Imperial Diets (the 'parliaments' of the time) being frequently held there. In fact, an edict issued in the 14th century decreed that every Emperor must hold his first Imperial Diet in Nuremberg.

Economically, Nuremberg also had another advantage in that it stood at the crossroads of a number of international trade routes and, of course, the Imperial importance attached to the city meant that many traders and buyers used it as a marketplace.

The boom in population and economy also attracted artists and sculptors looking for patrons - Albrecht Dürer was perhaps the most famous of many renowned names who made their base in the city during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Albrecht Dürer and Nuremberg

Albrecht Dürer, the most important of German painters, helped change the way that artists looked at portraiture and landscape and ushered in the era of the Renaissance.

Dürer was born in the 15th century to a Hungarian goldsmith who had emigrated to Nuremberg. At first he apprenticed to his father in the same trade, but later his artistic talent led to him learning from the most famous artist in Nuremberg at that time.

Having finished his apprenticeshop, Dürer took off on the first of his travels - something he was to do repeatedly during his life. On his return, he married to the daughter of another Nuremberg craftsman and his new status as husband allowed him to set up in business for himself.

The Albrecht Dürer House in Nuremberg at the foot of the castle and the city walls.

Many of Dürer's most famous works come from the time at the beginning of the 16th century when he lived in Nuremberg at the foot of the castle. The house where he lived dates from 1420 and is a typical timber-framed structure which would have been used by a prosperous inhabitant from those days.

It has been used as a museum of his life and work since the 19th century and contains exhibitions of printing and artistic techniques from his era as well as historical copies of some of his best-known works. The museum is open all week in high summer and during the Christmas market - otherwise it is closed on Mondays. Website : museums.nuernberg.de

In its time of prosperity, Nuremberg had become quite a large 'city-state' but the later stages of the Middles Ages with its succession of wars in central Europe and the changes in trade routes over the years meant that the city's territory gradually shrunk and that balance sheet deteriorated.

By the time of the Napoleonic Wars, Nuremberg was in desperate financial straits and asked to be incorporated into Prussia. That never happened, but it did finally join Bavaria as part of the Confederation of the Rhine alliance in 1806, with Bavaria agreeing to accept the debts of Nuremberg.

Freed from the weight of the debt and liberated by the end of the campaigns by and against Napoleon, Nuremberg started its slow climb into the industrial era.

Germany's first train ran between Nuremberg and the nearby town of Fürth and major manufacturers such as Siemens, AEG and Staedler turned the city into an economic centre for northern Bavaria. At the same time it was rediscovered by romantics looking for an idealised German past and finding it in the history of the ancient buildings and events.

This view of Nuremberg as a representative of 'lost Germanic greatness' was something that was shared by the the Nazi Party, who rose to power in the 1930s.

Nuremberg and the Nazi Party

For a city that is so closely associated with the Nazi atrocities of the 20th century, Nuremberg has actually always had a reputation as a 'red' workers' centre.

Nonetheless, some of the most famous features of National Socialism were closely connected to Nuremberg:

The Nuremberg Rallies

Nuremberg had been attractive to the extreme right because of its romantic association with German pre-eminence and culture in the Middle Ages. Rallies by the National Socialists started as relatively small events and were held in the city because it was reasonably accessible from all over Germany and because the Nazis had a strong foothold in the region around Nuremberg.

Once Hitler had come to power, Nuremberg became known as the "City of Nazi Party Rallies" (" Stadt der Reichsparteitage ") and played host to hundreds of thousands of participants and spectators in annual propaganda events designed to display fanatical support for decisions already made by the leaders.

The rallies were held out Luitpoldhain area to the southeast of Nuremberg. This had been a park area with lakes but it was remodelled with grandiose architectural plans which were never completed. Photos of the military parades and spectators from that time are frequently from the Luitpoldhain parade area, which was demolished after the war.

The Kongresshalle seen across the Duzendteich lake

What remains from the wartime are the Kongresshalle - designed at the time to be the largest stadium in the world - and the Zeppelin Field with its viewing galleries, which was also used for formation marching and other events during the Rallies. The Max Morlock stadium - home of the famous traditional football club 1. FC Nürnberg - stands on the original structure, which was used for Hitler Youth events.

One wing of the Kongresshalle is now given over to the 'Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände' (' Documentation Centre Nazi Party Parade Grounds '). The centre has a permanent exhibition entitled "Fascination and Terror", which details the rise to power of the NSDAP and the role which the Nuremberg Rallies played in this.

The Documentation Centre is open every day, with slightly restricted hours at the weekend. Website : museums.nuernberg.de

The Nuremberg Race Laws

The proclamations which became known as the Nuremberg Race Laws were first announced at the Nuremberg rally in 1935. The laws removed German citizenship from German Jews and forbade marriages or sexual relations between Jews and "Germans or those of related blood".

The laws were the first time that the racial theories of the Nazis were institutionalised and, following the Olympic Games in 1936, led to further and more oppressive measures before the establishment of the extermination and forced labour camps.

The laws were based not on religion but on race, so a persons 'eligibility' to remain a German was based on degrees of family relationships.

The Nuremberg Trials

The Nuremburg Trials is the name given to the tribunals held to prosecute high-ranking Nazi war criminals following the end of the World War II. Nuremberg was chosen as a venue for practical reasons, as the Palace of Justice in the city was undamaged and large enough to hold the proceedings, and for symbolic reasons, given the prominence of the city in Nazi ideology and propaganda.

Twenty-four of the leading members of government, industrialists, Nazi Party leaders and military officers were prosecuted for war crimes in the main trial, which started in 1946 at the end of World War II. Two committed suicide, some were acquitted and 12 were sentenced to death.

This International Military Tribunal was followed by 12 other trials presided over by the occupying American military. Just under 1,700 defendants were prosecuted with around 1400 being found guilty and less than 200 being sentenced to death.

The Palace of Justice now houses a museum dedicated to the Nuremberg trials. The Memorium Nürnberger Prozesse (' Nuremberg Trials Memorial ') is located on the top floor of the courthouse. Courtroom 600, where the trials actually took place, can be visited when it is not in use as it is still a functioning courtroom. The Palace of Justice is located west of the city centre and is near the Bärenschanze underground stop on the U1 line. Website : museums.nuernberg.de

Nuremberg had suffered heavily from bombing raids and from fighting at the end of the Second World War. Much of the historic town centre had been destroyed and there was a debate about how to rebuild the city.

Eventually many, though not all, of the historic buildings were reconstructed and inhabitants flocked to the city as the 'Wirtschaftwunder' (' business boom ') took hold. Jobs available rose by 50% from the Fifties to the Sixties and the city continued to expand, helped by major infrastructure investments such as the airport and the underground rail system.

Other towns in Middle Franconia

Ansbach is known for its old town, with historic buildings such as the Ansbach Residence, home to the former rulers of Ansbach. It is the administrative headquarters of the Middle Franconia region. Visitors can explore the history of the town at the Margravial Museum and explore the magnificent rococo court gardens.

Erlangen is known for being a university town and is home to the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg as well as being shaped by the presence of Siemens, a renowned technology company. The town is also famous for its annual beer festival, the 'Bergkirchweih', which starts on the Thursday before Pentecost and attracts more than a million visitors.

Nuremberg Tourist Office

Nuremberg has two main tourist information offices. The first is just over the road from the railway station on the way into the old town and the second tourist information centre is on Nuremberg's Market Square. They are both open all week, with slightly restricted hours on Sundays. Website : tourismus.nuernberg.de

19 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Nuremberg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The historic medieval city of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is one of Germany's most important centers for arts and culture, and one of the country's most popular tourist destinations .

The second-largest city in the beautiful state of Bavaria , Nuremberg has long been associated with advances in science and technology, particularly in printing. Home to Europe's first printing press and a center for the study of astronomy, these and other important technological advances are today celebrated in the city's world-class museums and attractions.

Despite having been severely damaged in WW2, many of the medieval buildings in the Old Town (Altstadt) have been painstakingly restored to their former glory. In fact, most of the top attractions in Nuremberg are located within the city's historic city walls, which extend some five kilometers around the Old Town, making it extremely fun to explore on foot.

An easy day trip away from Munich , if you can, you may want to plan your visit to coincide with one of Nuremberg's many festivals. Two favorites are the famous two-week-long Old Town Festival musical and folk event, and International Organ Week , which runs from late June to mid-July.

To learn more about these and many other fun places to visit in a city, be sure to read through our comprehensive list of the top attractions and things to do in Nuremberg.

1. Take a Walking Tour of Nuremberg Castle

2. get your bearings at the hauptmarkt, 3. walk nuremburg's historic city walls, 4. learn your history at the germanic national museum, 5. take a tour of the nuremberg transport museum, 6. marvel at the architecture of st. lawrence's church (st. lorenz), 7. frauenkirche: the church of our lady, 8. visit st. sebaldus church, 9. meet the artist: albrecht dürer's house, 10. documentation center nazi party rally grounds, 11. explore königstrasse and the st. lawrence side, 12. for the kids: the toy museum, 13. go wild at nuremberg zoo, 14. neues museum nürnberg, 15. city museum at fembo house, 16. museum of industrial culture, 17. have some fun at playmobil funpark, 18. schloss neunhof, 19. take a drive to erlangen schloss, where to stay in nuremberg for sightseeing.

Dominating the skyline of the northwestern section of the Old Town (Altstadt) rises the cluster of historic structures that together comprise Nuremberg Castle.

The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg (Nürnberger Burg), is an impressive 351-meter-tall fortification that dominates the Old Town's skyline. One of the most important surviving medieval fortresses in all of Europe, it was once the residence of all legitimate German kings and emperors from 1050 to 1571.

A great way to get the most out of a castle visit is to join a fun walking tour of Nuremberg Old Town . These informative two-hour English-language tours also take in other important landmarks along the way such as the city walls, the famous Hauptmarkt, the historic Albrecht Dürer House, and St. Lawrence Church.

At the lower end of the castle are the imperial stables built in 1495 (now a youth hostel), and the Pentagonal Tower, dating from 1040. Higher up is the Kaiserburg, built in the 11th century although much altered in later centuries, along with the Sinwell Tower with its wonderful panoramic views. Be sure to spend time exploring the Palas quarters with its unique double chapel, both of which date from the early 13th century.

English-language audio tours are also available for a small fee and are well worth it for those not participating in an organized tour. Many surviving artifacts from the castle's long history can be viewed in the Imperial Castle Museum, the Bower. Here, you'll find an impressive collection of medieval weapons and suits of armor, along with saddles and harnesses.

Another of the castle's top must-sees is the famous Deep Well . Located in the attractive old two-story Well House built in 1563, this even older manmade structure plummets to a depth of 50 meters, and can only be visited with a tour guide available every half hour. Be sure to also explore the impressive Castle Gardens . An attractive place for a stroll, it can trace its roots all the way back to 1525.

Address: Burg 17, 90403 Nürnberg

9 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Nuremberg, Germany

Destinations

If you’re planning to go and discover Nuremberg, Germany, you are in for a travel treat. Historic Nuremberg, with the Pegnitz River running through it, offers a picturesque Old Town complete with half-timbered buildings, winding lanes, a landmark castle, little shops, hanging flower baskets, and beer gardens.

As the second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is big enough to provide many choices for dining, stores with anything you may want, and a modern transportation system. At the same time, it’s small enough to feel cozy. Within the medieval walls, you will soon learn your way around and easily walk anywhere. The friendly people are a plus, too.

Here are things to know before your visit, so that you can fill your time with what interests you most. It’s an easy city to navigate, so your planning will involve less practical information and more about which sights you want to see. If you are lucky enough to stay even two days, you will be able to experience much of Nuremberg.

Center Your Visit In The Old Town

The 3-mile medieval wall finished in 1400 surrounds the Old Town, with 2.5 miles of it intact. Stay within the walled area for the atmosphere, cobblestone streets, and old pubs. You can opt for modern hotel chains that lie just outside the wall, but why not experience historic Nuremberg instead?

I stayed at an inn that dates to 1342, the Hotel Elch . The character of the building is preserved along with contemporary updates. The family-run inn features not only comfortable lodging but also helpful front desk people who can recommend restaurants within walking distance.

Put A Tour Of The Imperial Castle Of Nuremberg At The Top Of Your List

The stone tower, visible from anywhere in the Old Town, is part of the Imperial Castle , a must-see in Nuremberg. This stately castle was built in sections beginning in the year 1037. For centuries it housed German royalty who would travel from castle to castle, having no permanent residence.

Much of the Imperial Castle fell victim to World War II bombs. It’s been restored in the original style. The impressive Sinwell Tower miraculously escaped destruction. You can climb the winding wooden staircase inside to the top and know that those stairs likely date to the 18th century.

Other notable castle areas include the garden outside the castle walls. Note the circular bed in the middle of the garden, with its blooms surrounded by maple trees.

The Bower building in the courtyard houses the Imperial Castle Museum. Explore the history of the castle, military aspects of that history, and archeological findings from the castle grounds.

The deep well next to the tower displays the method of assuring a water supply. In case of a siege, a castle’s access to water meant life or death. The well goes down more than 160 feet into solid rock. Imagine pulling off that feat of engineering in the 14th century.

Pro Tip: Climb to the top of the tower if you are able to handle the stairs and take in the breathtaking view of Nuremberg. The sea of red tile roofs below is quite a sight.

Go Underground At The Art Bunker

You can go under the Imperial Castle as well as touring it above ground. And this is a fascinating tour that allows you to see the Art Bunker as it was during World War II.

Since the 14th century, according to the records, the rock beneath the castle has covered underground vaults and passageways with a total area of about 82,000 square feet. When you make your way along the tunnels, remember that these are not natural caves. Workers laboriously dug them out of the native rock. And the purpose involved beer. Because of their cool temperature, these cellars — going as far as four stories down — were ideal for making and storing beer.

When WWII broke out, Germans searched for hiding places for art, stained-glass windows, jewels, and other treasures. The tunnel system under the castle was the perfect hideout. Guards on duty round the clock ate and slept in the tunnels. You will see their bunks still there today. At war’s end, the valuables were returned to other countries or kept in Nuremberg. The stained-glass windows from cathedrals, for example, were put back in place.

To tour the bunker, buy tickets around the corner. Check the website for hours, as tours may be offered only once a day.

Shop Till You Drop In Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a shopping mecca for people who live anywhere nearby. And when you visit, you too can shop to your heart’s content.

Find stores with name brands and trendy merchandise along Nuremberg’s best-known shopping street, the Karolinenstrasse. The Kaiserstrasse is an elegant section of luxury stores and designer fashion. If you’re looking for something quirky or eccentric, shop along the Breite Gasse.

Check the city’s website for more information on shopping.

Pro Tip: Head to Karolinenstrasse to find items you may not have packed but need for your trip. I arrived in Nuremberg in October and wasn’t prepared for the chilly temperatures. I ran into a store and picked up a merino wool scarf that I ended up wearing every day, as well as a merino wool sweater that kept me warm.

Explore World War II History At The Documentation Center And Rally Grounds

Nuremberg holds a remarkable place in the history of Germany in WWII. One reason is that Adolf Hitler built rally grounds here where he conducted massive Nazi Party rallies from 1933 to 1938. The acres of grounds sit vacant, and you can walk around them and imagine what took place there. Adjacent is an excellent museum. Together these sights are known as the Documentation Center and Rally Grounds . The exhibitions give a comprehensive picture of the National Socialist dictatorship as well as the history of the rallies. The museum occupies a building Hitler started but never finished. The museum was created with the hope that by showing what happened, such horror would never happen again.

Visit The Courtroom Where The Nuremberg Trials Took Place

If you are interested in WWII history, plan to go to the Palace of Justice , where the Nuremberg Trials took place in 1945 and 1946. The Nuremberg Trials Memorial, an information and documentation center, is on the top floor of the courthouse. And the actual location of the trials, courtroom 600, is still in use.

On A Rainy Day, Head To The Train Museum

If rain is in the forecast, spend time inside at the German Railway Museum . Nuremberg has been a rail hub for two centuries. This museum is built on old tracks and contains full-size retired train cars as well as displays on trains through the decades. A viewing gallery provides seating while you marvel at the large model railroad. Check times for a demonstration by the master engineer. You are sure to enjoy the romance of the vintage trains in this fine museum. And you’ll be dry and warm, too.

Relax With The Efficient Transportation Options

Public transportation options both to Nuremberg and within the city are extensive and efficient. If you are coming by train, you can choose either the Inter-City-Express (ICE) trains, which are the fastest and most luxurious, or the Inter-City (IC) and Euro-City (EC) trains. These regional trains are often slower but cost less. Plan your journey using the Deutsche Bahn website.

The Nuremberg Airport is a few miles out of town. You can take an underground train from the airport to the central train station.

You can walk from the train station to your accommodations if you are staying in the Old Town. If you would rather not walk with your luggage, opt for public transportation or a taxi.

Once in Nuremberg, you can take buses, the underground, and the tram to go wherever you like. Find information and tips and plan your routes at the VGN website .

With the Nuremberg Card , all public transportation is free. Look on the website to see what other attractions you plan to visit and calculate whether this would be a good buy for your trip.

Pro Tip: Buy your train ticket for the next leg of your Europe journey when you arrive by train in Nuremberg. If you wait until you leave, the ticket may be more expensive.

Come For Magical Christmas Cheer

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is world famous. It’s one of the oldest and most popular Christmas Markets. Wooden booths form “the little city of wood and cloth” and take over the cobblestone streets to form a magical holiday celebration. Mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted almonds smell delicious. More than 180 stands offer sweet treats, drinks, toys and games, and decorations.

The Christmas Market on the Main Square of Nuremberg’s Old Town opens the first Sunday in Advent. Plan your visit far ahead, if possible, so you can find lodging. Then go and enjoy a sparkling holiday.

Nuremberg is a pleasant blend of centuries of history and modern life. You can savor a meal at the Goldenes Posthorn , built in 1498 and still serving delicious dishes. Wander on ancient lanes and shop for the latest model designer watch. Stay in an inn dating back hundreds of years with convenient Internet and same-day laundry services. Walk in the shadows of St. Sebaldus Church and its twin steeples. Take a day trip to nearby Rothenburg . You’ll have no problems filling your stay with amazing memories.

I first went to Nuremberg as a late addition to a European itinerary. It was a convenient stop along the train line from point A to point B. I later went back because I fell in love with Nuremberg. I think you will love it, too.

Centuries of history blend with modern life in this quaint German city, one of many idyllic destinations in Bavaria:

10 Beautiful Places To Visit In Bavaria, Germany
How To Spend An Amazing Day In Munich
5 Best Day Trips From Berlin, Germany

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

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Tourist enquiries, press enquiries, general address, bürgerinformationszentrum (citizens' information centre).

Hauptmarkt 18

90403 Nürnberg

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Germany Footsteps

Top 30 Things To Do In Nuremberg [Don’t Miss Them!]

Going to Nuremberg (or considering it) and want to know all the top things to do in Nuremberg Germany? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best tourist attractions in Nuremberg Germany to plan your ultimate trip.

Nuremberg, or Nürnberg as it’s known in German, is Bavaria’s second largest city and I think underrated as a tourist destination. I somehow had never even heard of it beyond the Nuremberg Trials before researching my first trip to Germany!

But this makes it all the better when you arrive in this city. There’s a fabulous range of places to visit around Nuremberg and you definitely won’t be bored. From top museums (I’m looking at you German National Museum) to learning more about the famous Nuremberg trials or seeing the Nazi Party Rally Grounds to enjoying one of the top Old Towns anywhere, you’ll have plenty to do.

Weissgerbergasse in the Old Town Nuremberg

If you have kids, there are also great fun things to do in Nuremberg Germany that they will love.

Nuremberg has a long and fascinating history and, in my opinion, there really is nothing better than strolling around the Old Town, looking out for the gorgeous half-timbered houses, churches and more while taking in many of the sights and attractions that call this area home.

Below, you will find our Nuremberg travel blog with everything you need to know about the best things to do Nuremberg Germany offers as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate vacation in Nuremberg! There is also a handy map of the places to visit in Nuremberg Germany and a one day in Nuremberg itinerary for people short on time.

Let’s start!

Traveling to Germany? Click here to download your free Germany Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!

Table of Contents

An Introduction To Nuremberg

Nuremburg is the state of Bavaria’s second largest city (after Munich) with over half a million people. It’s located in the northern part of Germany’s biggest state and there is a huge array of places to see in Nuremberg that appeal to tourists.

Called Nürnberg in German, Nuremburg has a long and interesting history. First mentioned in official records in 1050, the city started earlier when the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) was built about ten years earlier by Henry III, the German king. A settlement started around the castle and this was the beginnings of Nuremberg.

Henry III became the Holy Roman Emperor in 1046 and Nuremberg started its reign of being the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire, and the preferred home of most German Kings. Their crown jewels were kept here and many wonderful buildings were built here making it quite the treasure trove. This made it an attractive place to live for artists which helped further increase Nuremberg’s treasures.

The city became a free imperial city in the 13th century and it had a few hundred years of financial and cultural growth. By 1806, however, it had stopped being an imperial city and became part of the Kingdom of Bavaria.

Later in the 19th century, Nuremberg began to prosper again thanks to the industrial revolution and becoming home to Germany’s first railway. Their working class became a powerful breeding ground for the Nazi Party years later.

If you’ve ever seen those old black and white films of fanatical Nazi supporters hailing Hitler, most probably the film was taken in Nuremberg. Thanks to this, Nuremberg became the starting point for atrocities such as the boycotting of Jewish businesses and removing German citizenship for Jewish people.

In 1945, the allies bombed the city to basically nothing – it’s estimated over 90% of the city was destroyed.

After World War II, Nuremberg was home to the war crimes tribunal known as the Nuremberg Trials. Reconstruction took place as well using original stones and the Old Town looks amazing today.

Today, Nuremberg is a major commercial centre in Germany with many successful industries. Its position somewhat centrally in Germany means it’s well connected to the rest of the country and there is much to love about a visit here.

You can read more about Nuremberg’s past here.

Top 24 Things To Do In Nuremberg Germany

Here are the best Nuremberg tourist attractions. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe. If you only have one day to visit the best things to see in Nuremberg Germany, find our what to do in Nuremberg in one day itinerary below.

I also split the cool things to do in Nuremberg with kids and the things to do in Nuremberg during Christmas into their own sections.

Altstadt (Old Town)

The place to definitely head first when you are looking for things to do around Nuremberg is the Old Town. This area, circled by walls and with the Pegnitz River running through the middle, is definitely my favourite part of Nuremberg. Most of the Nuremberg Germany things to do listed below can be found here.

At the very least, you’ll want to take a long stroll through here.

As mentioned above, much of Nuremberg was reduced to rubble in World War II. However, it’s been rebuilt in a manner fitting of such an old and interesting place. There are many gorgeous half-timbered houses and huge churches, an impressive castle and what can feel like another city underground.

Weißgerbergasse is a particularly pretty street to walk so make sure you include it in your plans. It was also blissfully people free when we visited here, even though the rest of the city was busy.

Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle)

Also referred to as Nuremberg Castle or the Imperial Castle, Kaiserburg is a big castle complex above the Old Town that should be one of your top Nuremberg places to visit.

Always the heart of Nuremberg, this castle once was the centre of power in this region of the Holy Roman Empire. It was the home of the crown jewels and the place where every elected ruler had to hold their first Imperial Diet

Today, this is a great place to explore to learn more about Nuremberg’s past as well as to see more of this city.

Highlights include a tour of the residential wing (Palas) where you can see the renovated knights and Imperial Hall as well as the double chapel. There is also an exhibit here where you can learn more about how the Holy Roman Empire worked as well as the history of the castle until the 19th century.

There is also the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) Museum which explains the military history of the museum.

A must do in Nuremberg while you are here is visiting the Sinwell Tower which was built in the second half of the 13th century. It’s built on the most elevated part of the site and gives great views over the Old Town from an observation platform at the top. It’s worth all the stairs

Views from Sinwell Tower over the Kaiserburg and Nuremberg

It also is home to photos that show the castle and Nuremberg after World War II ended.

Another popular one of the Nuremberg Germany attractions in the castle complex is the Tiefer Brunnen (Deep Well) which has a shaft that is 50 metres down into the sandstone so that if the castle was under siege, the occupants had access to water. On castle tours, they’ll even prove this to you. You can only visit this via a quick tour.

Make sure you also factor in time to enjoy walking around the castle gardens.

The gardens are free and there are small fees for adults (kids free) for the other castle attractions. You can choose just to visit a couple or all attractions.

Four kilometres of the original five kilometres of the walls that encircle Nuremberg’s Old Town still stand today incorporating the Kaiserburg and many defensive towers. Four gate towers exist at each of its corner points. All up, it makes for one of Europe’s biggest medieval defensive systems.

Building started in 12th century (although the first fortifcations are believed to have been built here in the 11th century) and ended in the 16th. A huge moat was built around it as well although this was never filled with water.

The walls, in general, have been well preserved and restored and visiting them is a great way to explore Nuremberg.

Finding them is not hard – I recommend you start your visit of Nuremberg’s Old Town at the main train station. From here, you can walk through the walls by the Frauentorturm (“Women’s tower”) which is an old medieval defense tower. It’s a great way to feel like you are going back in time when entering the Old Town.

You can also easily see more of the walls when exploring Kaiserburg and while walking around the Old Town. You can walk on some sections of the walls but not all the way around.

Historischer Kunstbunker (Historic Art Bunker)

The Historischer Kunstbunker is a bomb shelter where priceless art pieces were stored during World War II which worked to keep them safe. Located under Kaiserburg, this shelter was made in one of the existing Medieval rock-cut cellars. Climate control was added to help keep the art in good condition.

Interestingly, this bunker started being built a year before the war started. The opening is hidden inside a home at Obere Schmiedgasse #52 which is where the tours start from today.

Historischer Kunstbunker (Historic Art Bunker)

You can take a 60-minute tour to explore this one of the Nuremberg things to see and learn how this bunker was built and how the art was kept safe. There’s also information on how Nuremberg was destroyed and rebuilt.

It’s also possible to take tours of more of the underground passages under the Kaiserburg that were built for Medieval defensive purposes.

Find more information here.

Albrecht-Dürer-Haus

One of Germany’s most famous Renaissance painters, Albrecht Dürer, lived and worked at this gorgeous timber-framed house in Nuremberg’s Old Town from 1509 until his death in 1528. It’s the only 16th century artist’s house remaining in Northern Europe.

Five storeys high, this Nuremberg to do has been beautifully restored and is worth checking out even if you aren’t interested in Dürer’s art. The rooms contain period furniture and exhibits of Dürer’s drawings, and you can also see a demonstration of the printing techniques used at the time.

Stadtmuseum Fembohaus (Fembo House City Museum)

This 16th century merchant’s house is the perfect place to learn more about the city’s history. It’s the only surviving large merchant’s house from the late Renaissance period.

This tall building makes for quite a sight from the outside, but it’s what is inside that landed it on this list of the best things to do in Nuremberg. There are over 30 rooms on four levels to explore with original rooms, period furniture and informative exhibits to tell the history and art and culture of Nuremberg over 950 years focusing on the Middle Ages to the 1800s.

There is also a replica of the Imperial Crown and Jewels which used to live in Nuremberg but are now in Vienna.

It’s a beautiful building with some rooms more or less as they were from centuries ago. Spared damage from WWII, it’s worth checking out.

There is an audioguide available for the special exhibition and you can get audioguides on your phone for the main exhibits. Most of the exhibits are captioned in German, with only limited English so the audio guides are strongly recommended.

Felsengänge (Undergound Cellars)

Explore a different part of the city on this one of the top things to do in Nuremberg. Located underneath Albrecht-Dürer-Platz, the Felsengänge is a collection of subterranean passages over four storeys underground. They date back to the 14th century.

They used to house a brewery and beer cellar and then became an air-raid shelter in World War II.

Many of these passages were built under Nuremberg, adding up to 20,000 square metres.

Mostly this was done for breweries in Nuremberg as it used to be law that if you wanted to sell beer, you needed your own beer cellar. With over 40 breweries in Nuremberg in the Middle Ages, that is a lot of cellars. Many joined together and lead to the huge passages existing today.

You can take a guided tour of the passages. Most are in German, but check for English-speaking times . Take a jacket as it can be cold down there.

St Sebalduskirche

There are many churches in Nuremberg, St Sebalduskirche is the oldest having being built in the 13th century.

Its outside is home to religious sculptures, carvings and symbols. It has quite a unique look thanks to the additions made to this church over the years.

The initial building on the west side is in a Romanesque and early Gothic style whereas the east side was built around 100 years later in late Gothic style. In 1361 when Emperor Charles IV’s son was baptised here, Medieval glass windows were added which are some of the best preserved (and oldest) in Germany.

The church is named in honour of Saint Sebald who is entombed here. You can see his bronze tomb which took 11 years to make in the 1500s.

Visiting here is one of the free things to do in Nuremberg.

Mittelalterliche Lochgefängnisse (Medieval Dungeons)

For a more macabre underground experience, add the Mittelalterliche Lochgefängnisse to your list of Nuremberg Germany tourist attractions. Located in the cellar of the old Nuremberg town hall, you’ll find 12 cells and a torture chamber which were used from 1340-1806.

If you want to know all about the Medieval justice system, come here! All visits are via guide or audio tour and it’s interesting learning how easy it was to torture a confession, send you upstairs to court for a judgement and then you are back for imprisonment or death.

Tours start in a restored Gothic hall in the Old Town Hall. Once downstairs, you can explore the (small and daunting) cells and see torture devices from the time.

From the corridor with the cells, you can actually see the original street level of the road of which this building had been built on top of in the 14th century.

This big main square is in the heart of the Old Town and is definitely one of Nuremberg top attractions. Originally the site of Jewish community, it was built after the Jewish community left or were executed after rounds of Jewish persecution.

In Medieval times, it was ringed with market stalls and today, markets are still held here most notably the massive Christmas Market which fills the entire 5,000 square metres as well as the neighbouring area. It’s reputedly the largest in Europe. It’s been held here since the 1600s.

There was plenty of good looking fruit and vegetables on sale here when we visited.

This square is also home to Frauenkirche, coming up next on our list of things to visit in Nuremberg, and the large Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain).

For good luck, make sure you touch the golden ring in the wrought-iron gate that surround the fountain. It can be tricky to find. Look for the crowds or look up – it’s quite high and going to be above your head unless you’re very tall. It’s also small.

Hauptmarkt is a great place to wander and hang out absorbing some Old Town atmosphere.

Frauenkirche (Church Of Our Lady)

This ornate Gothic church is located at the eastern end of Hauptmarkt and makes for quite a sight. It was built from 1352 to 1362 on the foundations of a Jewish synagogue.

The time to be here is at noon when you can watch the Männleinlaufen which means little men dancing. At this time, on the clock on the facade of the church, little figures come to life playing instruments, ringing bells and seven Prince-Electors strut around Emperor Charles IV. While I wouldn’t call it dancing, it is fun to watch.

This glockenspiel clock was created in the early 16th century and was kept safe during World War II in the art bunker mentioned above.

Inside Frauenkirche (Church Of Our Lady)

There is an interesting mix of items inside the church thanks to it switching between Catholic and Lutheran during its time (and then back again).

There are some stone sculptures inside the church from the 1300s as well as some impressive stained glass windows – some of which date back to 1358.

It’s my favourite of the churches on this list because it was a little more compact and felt more welcoming. They are all gorgeous.

Weinstadel (Wine Depot)

By the Pegnitz River, which runs through Nuremberg, sits the gorgeous half-timbered Weinstadel. Meaning wine depot, this building has had many lives including initially as a leprosy hospital when it was built in 1446. At this time, lepers were allowed to enter Nuremberg for just three days at Easter. From 1571, it was a place to store wine and later as housing for poor families.

These days, it is university student housing but it’s still worth wandering by this one of the top things to see in Nuremberg Germany as it’s just so pretty next to the river and surrounding buildings. You’ll forget you’re in a big city.

It’s also quite a striking sight. At 48 metres long, it’s the largest half-timbered building in Germany.

Henkersteg (Hangman’s Bridge)

Next to the Weinstadel, you’ll find a stone tower and Henkersteg, the hangman’s bridge. This tower is what Nuremberg’s hangman called home in Medieval times.

The tower was built in 1320, at what was once the edge of the original city walls by the river. This is because, at the time, the town’s executioner was not allowed to have contact with the “honorable” citizens.

In 1457, a bridge was built between the tower and the opposite side of the river so the executioner could exit his house and cross the river without contact with the rest of the population. Floods destroyed this bridge and it was replaced with the Henkersteg we see today in 1595.

You can walk across this bridge and the tower is now a museum (Henker Haus) detailing the history of law and crime in Nuremberg particularly in the Middle Ages.

Note that the tower that the museum is in is the smaller one pictured above. We tried to visit it on the opposite side of the river at the taller one and that is student residences 🙂

You have to enter Henker Haus to be able to cross the bridge.

The opening hours for Henker Haus (Hangman House) are limited so I recommend you check their site here for the latest hours before visiting.

I found it quite interesting. It’s small, but informative, and does a great job of describing the history of what the executioner used to get up to here. It’s not recommended for children as there are plenty of gory pictures. I went in alone which was the right choice.

Henkersteg has a middle point on an island called Trödelmarkt (Flea Market Island) which was home to a pig market and “junk shops” in the Middle Ages. Today, you can find boutique stores here and this is where you enter Henker Haus from.

Ehekarussell Brunnen (Marriage Carousel Fountain)

Located by the White Tower (a Medieval watch tower built in 1250 which is no longer white), the Ehekarussell Brunnen is a large and interesting sculpture that you’re probably going to love or hate 🙂

This one of the unusual things to do in Nuremberg displays different aspects of marriage over six scenes from falling in love until death. It was cast from bronze in 1984 by Jürgen Weber based on lines by the Medieval poet, Hans Sachs. His original poem can be found chiselled into the work on the tower side.

I definitely love this fountain. It’s interesting and gave us much more to talk about than most fountains. Make sure you check out each individual scene as you walk around it. I don’t recommend it if you are currently contemplating getting married as it doesn’t paint the best picture of it!

Lorenzkirche (St Lawrence Church)

Another one of the religious places to go in Nuremberg, Lorenzkirche is a huge, twin-towered church with the towers measuring 80 and 81 metres from the ground. First built in 1250, the church was rebuilt in a Gothic style from 1439-1477.

While much was repaired after World War II, many of the Gothic elements and artworks were preserved.

While it looks mighty impressive from the outside, it’s also impressive on the inside. It’s quite atmospheric with its sooty ceiling, down lit pillars and more. There are also impressive Medieval stained glass windows including a 9 metre diameter rose window.

There is plenty to enjoy and appreciate in Lorenzkirche. If you speak German, there are free tours that can take you up into the towers.

Germanisches Nationalmuseum (German National Museum)

When you’re ready for some serious museum time, make your way to the German National Museum. Founded in the mid 19 th century to be an authoritative collection of historical artifacts from German speaking people, there is a lot here.

There’s archaeological finds, scientific instruments, arms, armour, books, musical instruments, clothing, toys and basically anything related to German culture and background. Part of the museum is housed in an old monastery which is neatly woven into the museum as an exhibit in its own right.

There is so much here that I recommend you visit the info centre on arrival and work out which parts are most of interest for you. You can find the museum’s website here .

Straße der Menschenrechte (Way Of Human Rights)

Next to the German National Museum is the Way Of Human Rights consisting of 30 x 8 metre tall columns along Kartäusergasse. Each column has an article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in a different language.

It’s dedicated to both rejecting the things that have happened in Nuremberg in the past (primarily how Nuremberg played such an important role for the Nazi party) and as a reminder that human rights are still regularly ignored in parts of the world.

Neues Museum

Art lovers will definitely want to add the Neues Museum to their list of must see places in Nuremberg. Located at the southern end of the Old Town opposite the city walls, its known for its 100 metre curved glass exterior that reflects the stone city wall.

Inside, you’ll find a gallery with an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. Opened in 2000, the building itself is a work of art with its glass exterior, open spaces and a cool spiral staircase.

The art itself is from the 1950s until today. There is a wide range on offer from paintings to sculptures to photography and video art. There is a great range of temporary exhibits too so you can always see something new.

Deutsche Bahn Museum

If you are a railway buff or travelling with kids, this should be right at the top of your list of Nuremberg best places to visit. While I didn’t list this attraction in the kids section below because it will also appeal to adults, this was our kids #2 choice of the best things to do in Nuremberg Germany (after Playmobil FunPark).

Nuremberg was the site of the first passenger train journey in Germany between here and Fürth so this is the perfect location for this thorough and engaging transport museum centred on trains and railways.

Located just outside the Old Town to the south, this is a big museum. The main exhibit centres on the history of Germany’s railway system with plenty of information and items like an 1835 railway carriage (Germany’s oldest as this is when the railway opened between Nuremberg and Fürth). But note that a big chunk of this main exhibit is only in German.

What you’ll probably enjoy are the old trains, carriages and engines. We especially enjoyed the state coaches of the Bavarian King Ludwig II. So fancy!

There is much more to enjoy though. The first floor has a great model railway. The top floor is full of interactive attractions and rail-based play areas that kids will love.

Find the latest opening hours (they do vary) and ticket prices on their site here . You can also read our full review here which I highly recommend. We were a little disappointed by our visit as we didn’t have the right expectations. This will make sure you do!

Memorium Nuremberg Trials

The Palace of Justice (Justizpalast) is home to maybe the best known event to take place in Nuremberg, the Nuremberg Trials.

Courtroom 600 is where the trials took place. Between 1945-1949, 13 trials took place with 199 defendants. 161 were convicted with 37 sentenced to death.

This courtroom was still in use until 2020 but now is part of the centre dedicated to the trials. The main part of the memorial is on the floor above the courtroom. This centre is all about the Nuremberg Trials which details the crimes, defendants and the impact these trials have had on international law.

Most of the information displayed is in German only but a free audio guide is available that covers everything. If you plan on seeing/listening to all of it allow at least 90 minutes (as there’s a lot of sections).

For the courtroom itself, you can see it from the visitors section which matches the vistors and press area for the original Nuremberg trials. The court is still configured as it was when it ceased being a regular court again in 2020. Now it is unused, there are plans to remodel it as it was in 1945.

Do note that the courtroom can be closed during the museum’s opening hours so if it’s important to you to walk inside here, it’s best to check with the museum before going if it will be open for your visit.

It’s well worth a visit to learn more about this historic event. You can find more information on their site here .

Reichsparteitagsgelände (Nazi Party Rally Grounds)

For a big contrast with the last Nuremberg places to see on this list, visit where the Nazi Party was at its peak at its rally grounds.

You’ve probably seen this place before – if you’ve ever see the black and white videos of crowds hailing Hitler, it was here in Nuremberg that these were filmed.

Nuremberg was an important place in Germany thanks to its central location and its status in the Holy Rome Empire which made it important to the Nazi Party who held their annual propaganda rallies here even before they were in power. A congress hall was built here in the 1930s which is now home to the Documentation Centre.

Just to the east is Zeppelinfeld which is where the big Nazi parades and events took place. There is also a 350 metre long grandstand here as well as the balcony where Hitler stood talking to the masses.

The two kilometre long Große Strasse was planned for military parades.

Much of these grounds were destroyed during World War II but enough remains to give you a good idea of the scale of things here.

The Documentation Centre is definitely the place to head to learn more about the history of this area and how it was used by the Nazi Party. It will also give you a great understanding of how the Nazi party came to power and managed to do everything they did.

Once you have finished at the Documentation Centre, you can walk around the grounds where there are information boards telling the history of different parts of the site. It is a decent sized site so get ready for lots of walking.

Note that at the time of publishing, the main Documentation Centre museum is shut and there is an interim exhibit which talks through the various uses of the grounds as well as some brief information on the events that lead to World War II in Germany.

Sometimes, the Zeppelinfeld is closed for events and I suggest you ask when you buy your tickets for the Documentation Centre if this is open – or even better, ring beforehand. We were frustrated on our visit that we walked around for quite awhile in the rain with all the approaches we could find to the Zeppelinfeld closed.

We went back to the ticket office and asked and were told we should have known that it was shut!! This was not anywhere on their website or at the actual site. Hopefully, you have a better experience than us.

If there is only the interim exhibit to see, I don’t think this is worth the entry or the journey here.

There is parking at the site which we didn’t have problems accessing.

Schloss Neunhof

If you are looking for the best places to visit near Nuremberg, Schloss Neunhof is a completely different attraction in this area.

Schloss Neunhof is a well preserved suburban estate which helps tell the story of what summer was like for the city’s noble families from the 16th – 19th century.

This manor house is not just picturesque but has fortifications, a gate, moat and drawbridge. It also has big gardens with stables and more. Inside the house is a castle and hunting museum.

Located about a 20 minute drive from Kaiserburg, this attraction is best for people with their own wheels. At the time of publishing, the building was shut due to renovation works but you can visit the gardens. You can find more details on their site .

Jüdisches Museum Franken (Jewish Museum Franken)

In the adjoining town of Fürth, just a quick train ride away, is this one of the best things to do near Nuremberg Germany, the Jewish Museum Franken.

Fürth used to have the largest Jewish population in southern Germany. In this museum, you can learn the history of Jewish life in this region from the Middle Ages until today.

If you are looking for a fantastic day trip from Nuremberg, look no further! Bamberg is a fantastic option. About an hour’s drive or train trip away, it makes for an easy option.

Bamberg’s Old Town is UNESCO World Heritage listed and is full of original buildings. If you love narrow Medieval streets, tall historic buildings and centuries old churches then this is the place for you.

There are some great museums and churches to explore as you walk around the Old Town including the incredibly picturesque Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). In a day, you can see the top attractions in this city and have a fabulous time.

Click here to read our full guide to Bamberg including a one day itinerary .

Things To Do In Nuremberg With Kids

Nuremberg is a great place to visit with kids. We know because we visited with our three kids aged 6 – 12. While the majority of the Nuremberg visiting places above work fine with kids – ours enjoyed exploring the Old Town as much as us – there are some great Nuremberg attractions especially for kids which you will find in this section.

I do want to reiterate that the Deutsche Bahn Museum above was our absolute favourite place with kids in Nuremberg so 100% this should be on your itinerary.

Kindermuseum (Children’s Museum)

If your kids want stuff to do in Nuremberg, this highly regarded children’s museum could be just the place to head. With many exhibits full of hands-on interactive things to do, they won’t be bored while they learn.

Permanent exhibits focus on learning more about the earth and the environment and on how people have lived at different times and the way technology has evolved how we live. This sounds like lots of fun with the opportunity to even bake pastries and wash clothes the old-fashioned way.

It’s suitable for kids in grades 1 – 10 as well as preschoolers but is focused on being most interesting for primary school kids.

Unfortunately, we did not make it to this museum ourselves due to the fact that it doesn’t open over the summer vacation period. But it does sound like a lot of fun!

Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum)

Nuremberg has a long history (600 years!) of making toys so what better way to celebrate this than at a toy museum! In fact, Nuremberg is a hub for toy makers today as well with the biggest international toy fair held here regularly.

Located in the Old Town, it’s also a great way to break up more adult-focused attractions and to keep your kids interested in exploring.

The history of toys is on display here and as you move up the levels, you move forward in time as far as the toys displayed. It starts with wooden toys on the ground floor, doll houses and tin toys on the first floor and then construction sets and wind up toys on the second floor. There are also model trains.

The third floor has toys built since 1945 – there are so many things here! I may have enjoyed this more than the kids as I reminisced about my old toys.

While most of this museum is a museum – meaning you can’t play with the toys – the kids will enjoy the top floor where there is a play area with toys, games and books.

Nuremberg Zoo

The Nuremberg Zoo is one of the largest in Europe and has some great enclosures and animals on site. If you like zoos, you are sure to love Nuremberg Zoo.

It’s about six kilometres east of the Old Town in an old sandstone quarry which makes for some great enclosures when it’s been left how it was for animals where this makes sense.

There are many animals here (292 different species) and your kids are highly likely to find their favourites.

Playmobil FunPark

Kids 10 and under may think that Playmobil FunPark is the winner when it comes to places to see near Nuremberg.

This low key amusement park with Playmobil theming was a total winner for our six and ten year olds with amazing playgrounds, pedal boats, water play area, castle area, go karts and more. What I liked about it is nothing is that fancy (think cool playgrounds rather than rides) so it actually works incredibly well for younger kids.

If it’s warm, make sure you take your swim suit for the wet areas.

Honestly, you could easily spend all day here. We went for six hours and rushed quite a few hours. Just so much fun.

You can read my full review of Playmobil FunPark here .

Things To Do In Nuremberg At Christmas

While most of the Nuremberg things to do listed above are possible in winter time, there are also some fun things to do in Nuremberg in winter.

Nuremberg Christmas Market

Running for about a month before Christmas, Nuremberg Christmas Market is definitely the #1 place to head if you are looking for things to do in Nuremberg in December. This Christmas Market is one of the oldest and best options in Europe.

Located in Hauptmarkt, this market is big with around 180 stalls. It was first mentioned in 1628, but it’s suspected that markets were held here for around 100 years before this.

This area is famous for its gingerbread (lebkuchen in German) and this is a great time to try some along with an “Original Nuremberger” sausage and some blueberry glühwein. These sausages are made with pork and spiced with marjoram. They are only 23 grams each and about the size of a little finger. They are usually sold with multiple pieces.

For families, there’s also a Children’s Christmas Market on Hans-Sachs-Platz with a special family program and rides. The carousel looks amazing and it’s fun to walk around here as well.

The downside of all of this is that this market can get busy on weekends so go on a weekday if possible.

Staatstheater Nuremberg (State Theatre)

The art nouveau Staatstheater is just to the south of the Old Town and is a magnificent place to take in an opera, ballet or to listen to the Nuremberg Philharmonic Orchestra.

While you can attend a show here year around, it can be an extra good choice in winter when you’d rather keep indoors.

What To Do In Nuremberg In One Day

Only have one day in Nuremberg? 😮 What a shame!

But it’s ok, it’s still worth going to Nuremberg if you only have one day.

With one day, I recommend you stick to the attractions in and around the Old Town. The following is a base for your itinerary but switch things around after reading the above so you spend more time at the attractions that most interest you.

Start the day at Kaiserburg. Check out the views at Sinwell Tower and consider visiting the other museums and Tiefer Brunnen (Deep Well) if time allows
Look at the map above and try to walk past everything mentioned in the Old Town. Even if you don’t want to go inside the attractions, the outsides are usually amazing. Also make sure you walk along the very picturesque Weißgerbergasse
Do one of the underground tours. Pick whichever interests you most from the Historischer Kunstbunker (Historic Art Bunker), Felsengänge (Undergound Cellars) and Mittelalterliche Lochgefängnisse (Medieval Dungeons)
Go inside at least one of the main churches: St Sebalduskirche, Frauenkirche (Church Of Our Lady) and Lorenzkirche (St Lawrence Church)
Have lunch somewhere picturesque in the Old Town
Spend the afternoon at either the Germanisches Nationalmuseum (German National Museum), Neues Museum or Stadtmuseum Fembohaus – whichever interests you the most

The only exception to this is if you are particularly interested in World War II history. In this case, split your time between the Reichsparteitagsgelände, Nuremberg Trials Memorial and Kaiserburg for a touch of the Old Town. Eat dinner in the middle of the Old Town too so you have a chance to soak up some of the ambience.

Best Place To Stay In Nuremberg Germany

When it comes to where to stay in Nuremberg, there is a great range of hotels and other accommodation options. You won’t have any problem finding somewhere to stay.

Below, I’ve listed a few different places to consider depending on what type of accommodation you are looking for.

If you want more options, you can use this map to help you find hotels and home rental accommodation around Nuremberg.

BEST – Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg Review

Located just to the SE of the Old Town opposite the City Walls, Le Meridien is the place to head for 5 star luxury. It isn’t just grand inside either, it looks it from the outside.

It started life as a two-storey farmhouse with a hops storehouse, but became an 80-room hotel in 1896 with three floors. Although it still wasn’t the luxury it is today thanks to no running water and only one bathroom!

Today, it has 190 luxurious rooms, all with flat screen TV, internet, safes and luxurious beds. You will be comfortable here. The rooms range from small (but stylish) doubles to a variety of suites which also have sitting areas.

Facilities at this hotel include a restaurant, gym and business facilities. Valet parking can be included for an additional daily charge.

Click here for the latest prices.

You can also read our full review of the Novotel in Nuremberg here which is also a great choice.

VALUE – Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremberg Review

For great value accommodation in Nuremberg Old Town, look no further then the Adina Apartment Hotel. We love this chain for very comfortable, well furnished and smartly arranged apartments with all the facilities of a hotel.

In Nuremberg, the Adina Apartment Hotel is located in the southern part of the Old Town which makes it very easy to get out and about to explore all the things to do around Nuremberg Germany.

Rooms range from studios to one and two bedroom apartments including special family apartments. They all have kitchens including microwaves and washing machines and are comfortably appointed. Flat screen TVs, irons and more are included making this a very easy place to stay.

Facilities include an indoor pool, gym and a sauna as well as complimentary WiFi. There is a restaurant and bar on site and you can order room service. I particularly liked the rooftop terrace.

For anyone who wants to self cater or have a little more space (especially families), this is my top choice of where to stay in Nuremberg.

BUDGET – Übernachten in der Tenne Review

If you are looking for a budget stay, you won’t be able to beat Übernachten in der Tenne. Located about 8 kilometres from the Kaiserburg, you can catch public transport into the Old Town and around Nuremburg’s attractions.

This accommodation offers apartments in an old converted farmhouse renovated in 2018. They are functional and good looking and offer a comfortable stay for a great price as long as you don’t mind the commute.

There are four apartments with kitchens with microwave and three single rooms. Some of the apartments have sofa beds making them a great choice for families of four who want great accommodation and want to save some money.

There is free parking on-site and you can also have breakfast served in your room.

Nuremberg Attractions Map

How To Get To Nuremberg

Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof or Nuremberg Central Station

We travelled to Nuremberg by hire car which made it very easy to get here. It’s in a central location and is a major city so it’s simple to find.

You can hire a car to get you there by clicking here.

There are regular trains and buses here. You can find timetables and all your options here. Nuremberg’s central location has it close to many places and you can be in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg or Munich within hours by train.

There is also an airport in Nuremberg with flights from other places in Europe. Click here to see the latest (and best) prices.

Once in Nuremberg, we found it easy to use the local transport, although most of the time, we explored on foot. Once you are in the Old Town, it’s awesome to just walk around and soak it all in.

Final Words

Nuremberg is a fun place to visit and there are many things to see Nuremberg offers. The hardest part will be what to leave out!

We really enjoyed it all, except the disappointment of not getting to see the Nazi Party Rally Grounds as we had expected. The Old Town is awesome to walk around and then there’s so much outside of here as well as some top museums.

I hope you have found this guide useful and you have a great visit as well.

Read more guides to visiting Southern Germany here or read about nearby Dinkelsbühl here or Rothenburg here . Both are perfect places for a day trip! You may also be interested to know why we think Bavaria is the best region in the world here .

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

36 Amazing Things to do in Nuremberg

Updated March 28, 2020

// By Margherita

Are you looking for a fun, lesser-known city break? Head to Nuremberg – this town in Southern Germany offers a great mix of history, culture, culinary attractions and lots of nature within day-trip distance.

Here is our guide to the city, with 36 fun things to do in Nuremberg, including the Altstadt, Nuremberg Castle and what to do on a rainy day!

I know many people will disagree with me, but I’ll say it – Nuremberg reminded me a lot of Berlin.

Not in terms of looks, of course, as the two cities couldn’t be more different. Nuremberg is charming and fairytale-like, with half-timbered houses and traditional architecture surviving through post-WW2 reconstruction, whereas alternative Berlin has a gritty, alternative feel.

The reason why the two cities reminded me of one another is layers. I’ve visited Berlin over a dozen times , and each new visit reserves me new surprises – at the same time, I keep hearing people saying there’s nothing to see in Berlin, besides the usual handful of tourist attractions.

Similarly, you could visit Nuremberg , explore Nuremberg Castle and learn about the Holy Roman Empire , and then never leave Altstadt , the Old City, with its cutesy cobbled streets and picturesque corners.

Yet, somehow Nuremberg’s dark recent history would catch up with you at some stage – and that would open up a whole new layer, one where you would uncover the role played by the city during Nazi times.

From the grandeur of Holy Roman Empire history, to the darkness of the 20th century, but what about modern Nuremberg? The city can indeed be cool and quirky at times, albeit not in a manner as straightforward as in places like Berlin and Dresden.

However, there are still plenty of bohemian shops, independent cafés and unusual things to do in Nuremberg.

Let’s have a look at what the city has to offer – settle down, grab a coffee, as this is likely to be a fairly long read. Here are the 36 best things to do in Nuremberg , one layer at a time!

No time to read? Have a look at these fun Nuremberg tours!

Nuremberg: 2-Hour Tour through the Historical Old Town
FREE Walking Tour of Nuremberg
Nuremberg Old Town and Nazi Rally Grounds Walking Tour
Medieval Nuremberg Walking Tour
Nuremberg Third Reich Walking Tour
Nuremberg: 6-Hour Culinary Experience
Nuremberg: Private 2-Hour Tour with Brewery Visit
Nuremberg: Tour of Former Nazi Party Rally Grounds
Nuremberg: Private Tour with a Local Guide

Would you like to know more about what to do in Nuremberg? Check our Wowanders diary with where to go, what to see and where to stay in Nuremberg and Franconian Switzerland!

Things to do in the Nuremberg Altstadt

1) visit nuremberg castle.

You can’t miss Nuremberg Castle , sitting on a sandstone ridge right at the north of the Nuremberg Altstadt. It is not one single castle, but a group of fortified buildings surrounded by walls – and visiting it is probably the #1 unmissable thing to do in Nuremberg.

The history of Nuremberg Castle is closely related to the Holy Roman Empire , which used to include most of modern-day Germany. The Holy Roman Empire wasn’t an empire per se, it was a collection of small allied statelets and fiefdoms, with no capital city or centralised power.

Holy Roman Emperors didn’t have a ‘base’, they voyaged from one castle to the next. The castle was both an imperial residence and a centre of administrative powe r, where the Reichstag (Imperial Diet) used to meet.

In 1356, the importance of Nuremberg Castle rose further when Charles IV enacted the ‘Golden Bull’ , requiring newly-elected emperors to have their first assembly at Nuremberg Castle.

Thanks to this decree, trade flourished and Nuremberg became one of the three main cities within the Holy Roman Empire.

Make sure you dedicate at least a couple of hours to visiting Nuremberg Castle. Most of the castle was destroyed by WW2 bombs, and painstakingly restored during the postwar period.

Upon entering the castle, you’ll be visiting the Double Chapel , one of the few spaces to survive the war unscathed. It is called ‘double’ as there are two chapels on top of one another, connected through the middle.

Afterwards, you’ll be heading through the Imperial Hall , housing an exhibition about imperial times in Nuremberg , then to the Imperial Living Room , with its ceiling painted with imperial insignia.

Other places worth visiting are the Imperial Castle Museum , full of swords, spears and other weapons, and the Deep Well , a 50-m well to an underground water source – it s argued that the presence of this source was the reason behind the castle’s construction in this specific place.

When you’re done visiting, don’t forget to enjoy the views over Nuremberg Altstadt! The best view can be enjoyed from the top of the Sinwell Tower , one of the few places in the castle to survive WW2 bombs. It was closed when we visited, so we had to make do with the views from the castle walls!

TOP TIP! Nuremberg Castle is FREE with the Nuremberg Card – for only 28 euro you’ll get free entrance to museums, attractions and public transport!

2) Spend the Night in Nuremberg Castle

If you’re really into history, you may be pleased to know you can actually spend the night in Nuremberg Castle – and the experience won’t break the bank.

Remember when I said that Nuremberg Castle comprehends a group of buildings surrounded by stone walls? One of these buildings, the former stables, was renovated and turned into a youth hostel – maintaining original features like vaulted ceilings, heavy doors and iron gates.

There are both private rooms and dorms, and rates start from only €34 per person , per day – including breakfast!

3) Take Pictures in Weiβgerbergasse

When I asked my local friend Alex for recommendations on the best things to do in Nuremberg , he recommended Weißgerbergasse , one of the few places in town to retain the fairytale charm wiped out by Allied bombs in 1945.

This pedestrian street in the heart of Nuremberg Altstadt is lined with colourful half-timbered houses, built by wealthy tanners in the Middle Ages.

There are also some Baroque and Rococo additions on some façades, as well as spectacular inner gardens, some of which still have wells – a relic of the time when they housed tanner workshops .

Nowadays you’ll find cute shops, cafés and some cool settings for your Instagram pictures. Well worth the detour!

4) Learn about Nuremberg’s most famous citizen at Albrecht Dürer House

All over Nuremberg, you’ll find images of a strange-looking fellow , with long, wavy hair, a goatee and moustache. No, he’s not a modern-day hipster – even though he does indeed look like one.

I’m talking about Albrecht Dürer , one of the protagonists of the German Renaissance, author of a wealth of paintings and engravings, and one of the best printmakers in art history.

Albrecht Dürer was born in Nuremberg and lived there most of his life, until his death in 1528. He lived for 19 years in a half-timbered house overlooking Tiergärtnerplatz – now a museum dedicated to the artist’s life and work.

If you’re into art, this is definitely one of the top things to do in Nuremberg – inside, you’ll see sketches and engravings by Dürer himself , as well as an explanation of his artistic heritage, and development of printmaking and engraving techniques. You can also follow printing workshops at the museum.

FREE with the Nuremberg Card !

5) Listen to a Concert at Lorenzkirche

Next up on our list of things to do in Nuremberg are three amazing churches – let’s start with the first one!

You’ll definitely notice the two twin towers of Lorenzkirche (St. Lorenz Church) as you wander around the Altstadt, overlooking the pretty half-timbered houses and reconstructed buildings from their 80 meter height.

The façade is a true Gothic masterpiece, decorated by statues and with a stained-glass rose window. However, the true marvel lies inside – there’s art everywhere, from paintings to statues, to altarpieces and other unique pieces like the Angelic Salutation by Veit Stoss, a wooden sculpture hanging over the central nave.

Lorenzkirche is also home to one of the largest organs in the world , with 12,000 pipes. If there’s a concert on, don’t miss it!

6) Visit Nuremberg’s Patron Saint at Sebalduskirche

The second on our ‘amazing Nuremberg church list’ is Sebalduskirche (St. Sebald’s Church), dedicated to Nuremberg’s patron saint.

Sebalduskirche was also built in Gothic style and it dated back to the 13th century, making it actually older than Lorenzkirche. It was originally a Romanesque church , and it was altered according to Gothic architecture about a century later.

The church was almost to the point of no return during World War II, and a miracle preservation job was undertaken in postwar times to restore the building to its original glory.

Inside the church, the main sight is the Shrine of St. Sebald , where the bones of the saint are laid to rest in a silver casket.

7) See the Fancy Clock at the Frauenkirche

The third and last church on this list of things to see in Nuremberg is Frauenkirche , located on the far side of Hauptmarkt , the main market square where the famous Christmas markets are also being held.

Frauenkirche is also a Gothic church from the 14th century. Notable features on the façade are the triforium and carved twin entrance doorway , making it look very different from the other two famous Nuremberg churches.

Yet, the real reason to visit Frauenkirche is to see Männleinlaufen in action, a mechanical clock installed in the 16th century to commemorate the Golden Bull (I explain what it is in the section about Nuremberg Castle).

The clock is activated every day at midday, with small statues of Prince Electors parading around the Holy Roman Emperor.

8) Make a Wish at Hauptmarkt

On weekdays, you’ll see Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square) full of all sorts of stalls, selling delicacies and handicrafts from Franconia, street food from all over the world and more.

Yet, there’s another curious thing to see in Hauptmarkt – on the side of the square opposite to Frauenkirche you’ll see a golden Gothic fountain , resembling a spire and covered with gilded decorations and statues.

On the wrought iron gate surrounding the fountain, there’s a golden ring that’s said to make all your wishes come true if you turn it three times. It’s too soon for me to report whether or not it works, but it’s worth a try!

9) Walk around the City Walls

Are you curious to learn where Nuremberg Altstadt ends? Well, it’s quite easy to figure out – the entire Old Town is surrounded by city walls , one of the best preserved examples in Europe.

Walking around the City Walls is another fun thing to do in Nuremberg. The total length of the walls was about 5 km – most of it were destroyed during WW2, and about 4 km were rebuilt.

The strips of land surrounding the walls have been turned into city parks. Following the path all around the city walls is an excellent way to enjoy nature and history in Nuremberg at once – don’t miss it!

10) Go Souvenir Hunting at Handwerkerhof

On the southern side of the Nuremberg City Walls, not far from the station, you’ll find Handwerkerhof (Craftsmen’s Courtyard) – a collection of craftsmen’s workshops in Nuremberg’s last surviving courtyard within the walls.

Walk around to see gingerbread makers (yum), glass painters, doll shops, wooden toy makers and many more, and feel as if you stepped back int the Middle Ages between cobbled laneways and the scent of bratwurst.

Except that Handwerkerhof was only created in 1970 to celebrate Albrecht Dürer’s 500th birthday – the attraction only meant to be open for a limited time, but given its success it still stands. It’s a unique place to buy your Nuremberg souvenirs!

11) Marvel at the Hospital of the Holy Spirit

Built in the early 14th Century by a wealthy patrician, Konrad Gross, it was the largest private healthcare structure in the Holy Roman Empire. And after the year 1500, it was extended, spanning over the river Pegnitz and taking up two more buildings.

The hospital used to house considerable wealth, including art pieces and none other than the Nuremberg Imperial Regalia , kept in the hospital’s church between 1424 and 1796.

In my opinion, it’s one of the most photogenic places in Nuremberg , especially at night, when the building is lit up and reflected on the river.

Nowadays, most of the hospital has been turned into a senior residence. You can still visit the courtyard, and eat at the Restaurant Heilig-Geist-Spital , serving excellent Franconian cuisine.

12) Walk Down Henkersteg – Hangman’s Bridge

Last but not least, my father’s favourite place to see in Nuremberg! He spent two summers living in the city, and he told me not to miss visiting Henkersteg (Hangman’s Bridge), and eating at the traditional restaurant right on the bridge.

Sadly, the restaurant closed decades ago. You can still walk down the covered bridge connecting the Altstadt to Trödelmark Island on the river Pegnitz, and snap some cool pictures of the nearby building Weinstadel , the largest half-timbered house in Germany.

BTW, do you want to know the reason behind the name? The tower at the end of the bridge used to be home to the city executioner , that has now been turned into a museum. If you like quirky, creepy tourist attractions, add this to your Nuremberg list of things to see!

Things to See in Nuremberg – 20th Century History

13) learn about history at the nuremberg documentation centre.

This is where you’ll leave the fairytale historic centre, and scratch away the first layer. You travel 3 km to the southeast , in an part of town that, at first glance, doesn’t look like much – large roads, supermarkets, apartment buildings and little else.

Then, you’ll see it – a huge horseshoe-shaped building, vaguely reminiscent of Rome’s Colosseum. It’s the Congress Hall , one of the largest surviving National Socialist building , even though it is not finished.

The Congress Hall is located in the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where rallies where held yearly from 1933 to 1939.

Nuremberg was an important city during the Third Reich – it was a hotspot of Nazi support, the city of the race laws, and it was known as the ‘most German of all German cities.’

After the end of the war, it was decided to preserve all surviving Nazi buildings and relics in accordance to the policy known as ‘ Obligation to the Past ‘ – history is not erased but presented avoiding sensationalism, keeping alive the memory of those who suffered.

As a result, the Congress Hall was not finished, but left how it was and turned into the Nazi Party Documentation Centre . This museum highlights the history of the National Socialist Party from its inception to before, during, and after WW2. Meanwhile, it also describes Nuremberg’s role during the war, and the city’s new role as “City of Peace and Human Rights” .

Audioguides are provided but beware – the tour is very, very interesting and detailed , so don’t think you’ll be done in an hour or so. Dedicate at least half a day to the Nazi Documentation Centre – it’s one of the most interesting things to do in Nuremberg!

14) Survey the Zeppelinfeld

After visiting the Nazi Documentation Centre , you can take a walk around the Nazi Party Rally Grounds – there’s a map right outside the entrance with a suggested itinerary, lasting about an hour in total.

The tour will take you to the Groβe Straβe , the main axis of the military parade taking place during the rallies, and then to the Zeppelinfeld (Zeppelin Field), a large square with enough space for 200,000 people, with a grandstand where Hitler and other Nazi leaders used to give speeches.

You may be thinking that the name ‘Zeppelinfeld’ came from the fact that the place was so huge, it was used to park Zeppelins. Sorry to disappoint you – the place took this name after Count von Zeppelin landed one of his airships there in 1906.

15) Sit in Courtroom 600, the location of the Nuremberg Trials

After the war, Nuremberg was chosen as the location for the trials of prominent Nazi members and leaders.

Given Nuremberg’s role in the history and development of national socialism, one may think the city was chosen to exorcise this uncomfortable heritage. This may indeed be part of the reason, but the main reason is another – Nuremberg was the only major German city where the Palace of Justice was still standing , with a courtroom and large prison attached.

The Nuremberg Trials took place between November 1945 and December 1946. There were 24 accused, and three judges and prosecutors from each of the four Allied countries. To know more about the Nuremberg Trials , it’s possible to visit the Memorial located in the Palace of Justice.

You’ll also be able to sit in Courtroom 600 , where the actual trial took place.

16) Walk the Way of Human Rights

In 1988, with the enlargement of the Germanisches Nationalmusem ( Germanic National Museum) , a design competition was held to decide on how to connect the old and new wing of the museum – the winning project was that of Israeli architect Dani Karavan , known as the Way of Human Rights.

This monumental sculpture, located on Kartäusergasse , includes a marble archway, and a series of pillars, each with an article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights engraved in a different language, plus German.

It’s a striking monument, movement in its simplicity – and one of the most unmissable things to see in Nuremberg.

Quirky and Unusual Things to Do in Nuremberg

17) try to find the baroque gardens.

Ok, let’s move onto some lighter things to do in Nuremberg ! If you like attractions that are not immediately easy to find, we recommend looking for the Baroque Gardens on Johannisstraße – there are two, one at number 43 and another at number 13.

The gardens lie behind closed doors, but if you visit during opening times (8 am to 8 pm) you just need to push the door and walk in to discover stunning Italian-style gardens , with fountains decorated with statues, manicured fences and lawns.

These gardens were established in the 17th century. They were known as ‘Gardens of the Hesperides’ , and used to cultivate citrus fruits. Nowadays, they’re a nice place to escape the traffic!

18) Decide Not to Get Married at Ehekarussel

Here’s one of the quirkiest things to see in Nuremberg – Ehekarussel , meaning the ‘marriage merry-go-round’.

This truly crazy-looking fountain can be found near the Weißer Turm , and depicts the history and course of a marriage with no shortage of graphic descriptions.

As you move around the fountain, you’ll see the sweet idyllic phase, turning sour as the two people get married and have children, then become old, fat then frail, before finally murdering each other. Yes, I know. Crazy – but kind of cool.

19) Explore the Historisches Kunstbunker

Nuremberg lies on sandstone, and over the centuries kilometres of tunnels were cut into the rock , to store beer from the many city breweries.

When World War II came, most of these tunnels were turned into air raid shelters, and some were used to store art from Germany and other nations occupied in the early stages of the war.

Works by Albrecht Dürer, an altarpiece from Poland, the mechanical clock on the Frauenkirche and the Imperial Regalia were only some of the priceless artefacts that survived the war in these tunnels . Nowadays, it’s possible to take a guided tour through these bunkers – a recommended Nuremberg attraction for art lovers!

20) Visit the Pigeon Museum

Weird museum lovers come to me. Check out this crazy thing to do in Nuremberg – the Pigeon Museum , which is (yes, you guessed it!) a museum dedicated to all things pigeon.

The museum includes a collection of pigeon related objects, including a collection of 4000 porcelain figures. A great idea to spend an unusual afternoon when it’s raining!

21) Perfect your tricks at Airtime

Looking for something active to do in Nuremberg on a rainy day? Head to Airtime , a trampoline park in a former industrial building north of the city centre.

There are regular trampolines, extra bouncy ones, a trampoline ‘half pipe’, and trampolines with soft mattresses or foam pits for those who want to practice their front flip and backflip skills.

It’s very popular with children and teenagers, making it a great idea for families visiting Nuremberg , but you’ll also have fun as a grown-up. Opt for the two hour package, as time goes quick!

22) Go Shopping in GOHO

Every city has its hipster neighbourhood, right? In Nuremberg you’ll find Gostenhof, GOHO for friends , right to the south of the Altstadt.

This is the kind of place to head to for independent cafés, street art and cool shops – some examples are Anemoi , selling stamps and custom stationery, edi.m , an eco/upcycled shop, and ZeroHero , the first shop where you can buy groceries with no packaging.

If you get hungry, head to Palais Schaumburg , a vegan-friendly restaurant with a large and shady beer garden.

23) Find the Weirdest Rabbit Statue

The Ehekarussel is not the only weird statue in Nuremberg! There’s another one in Tiergärtnertorplatz, right opposite Albrecht Dürer’s house.

The sculpture represents a hare, an interpretation of artist Jürgen Goertz of Dürer’s famous Young Hare watercolour painting. There’s only one difference – the painting represents a cute, fluffy hare, where the statue looks more like a nightmare vampire hare.

For some reason, though, children love it!

Nuremberg for Foodies

24) explore nuremberg’s historic rock cut cellars.

Nuremberg’s brewing tradition goes back centuries , all the way to the Middle Ages. Back then, drinking beer was a necessity rather than pleasure – the brewing process achieved the twin aims of providing nutrition, and killing the bacteria present in water through fermentation.

I already mentioned that Nuremberg lies on sandstone, and through the centuries kilometres of tunnels were excavated, primarily to store beer. After all, there used to be hundreds of breweries, and per capita consumption exceeded 100 liters a year, meaning lots of storage space was needed!

Nowadays, only one brewery survives in the Old Town – the Hausbrauerei Altstadthof . It’s worth a visit, not only to taste Nuremberg’s iconic Rotbier (red beer) but also because it’s possible to take a 1 hour-long tour of the historic rock-cut cellars , led by a guide who will reveal lots of secrets about brewing in Nuremberg.

If you’re a foodie or a beer lover, don’t miss this fun and unusual Nuremberg tourist attraction!

25) Sample a ‘Drei im Weggla’

Bratwurst may be an ubiquitous sight all over Germany, with different sausage varieties in each town. Nuremberg Rostbratwürst are strictly regulated by a series of rules regarding ingredients, size and weight – you’ll notice that they are way smaller than usual würst found all over Germany, only 7 to 9 cm long and up to 25 grams in weight.

You can enjoy them in various ways – grilled, sour (cooked in vinegar and onion broth), ‘naked’ (meaning raw – only for the brave!) or smoked.

There’s a legend regarding the creation of these sausages , diminutive in size but definitely not in flavour. Business-savvy innkeeper made them small so that they could be sold to hungry punters even after hours, by pushing sausages through keyholes.

Nowadays, there are two favoured ways to enjoy Nuremberg Rostbratwürst – grilled on plate, with sauerkraut or potato salad, or Drei im Weggla , three of them roasted in a bun. The best can be had at Bratwursthäusle near Sebalduskirche.

If you’re into street food, this is one of the best things to do in Nuremberg!

26) Enjoy Schäuferla

Naturally, there’s more to Franconian cuisine than just bratwürst! From dumplings to roasts and meat stews, if you’re a lover of hearty, meat-heavy comfort food, you’re bound to love traditional Nuremberg food.

One of the most unique and local Franconian dishes is Schäuferla , made with pork shoulder that is first roasted, then stewed with onion and red beer, creating a thick (and tasty!) gravy.

The preparation of Schäuferla lasts several hours, so you’ll probably only find it on menus during weekends or special occasions. We tried it at the Hausbrauerei Altstadthof, and it was just delicious with some local red beer!

27) Stuff Your Face with Lebkuchen

Who else loves sweets? You’ll be happy to know that Nuremberg is home to Lebkuchen , gingerbread biscuits made with nuts and spices first baked by monks in the 14th century.

Nuremberg was an important centre of trade ever since the Middle Ages, with wares coming from Asia transiting en route to other destinations in the Holy Roman Empire and beyond, which explains why spices were used in the recipe.

Lebkuchen are traditionally enjoyed during Christmas , but you can find them year round – you can even join a Gingerbread Baking Class to make them yourself!

Things to Do in Nuremberg in Winter

28) shop at the christmas market.

The Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of the prettiest in Germany – and also one of the busiest, unfortunately.

It takes place from the first Friday before Advent all the way to Christmas Eve – opening dates in 2019 are November 29th to December 23rd. The centre of all celebrations is the Hauptmarkt , filled to the brim with stalls selling Nuremberg sausages, Glühwein, Lebkuchen, local handicrafts, decorations and more.

If you’re planning to visit Nuremberg in Winter , this is a truly not-to-be-missed thing to do. Yes, it is busy, but you’ll truly feel as if you were living in a fairytale!

For more info, have a look at the official Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market) website !

29) Travel Around the World at the Sister Cities Market

Another fun thing to do in Nuremberg in Winter is visiting the Sister Cities Market. It’s located just north of the main Christmas market, and you’ll find stands selling handicrafts and souvenirs from Nuremberg’s sister cities – including Antalya, Atlanta , San Carlos in Nicaragua, Shenzhen and many more.

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, or you simply had enough bratwurst and Lebkuchen, this is the place for you!

The Best Nuremberg Museums

30) spend a rainy day at the germanic national museum.

Another fun thing to do in Nuremberg in Winter or when it rains is visiting a museum – and there’s no better choice than the Germanisches Nationalmusem, (Germanic National Museum).

The museum was founded in the mid-19th Century, and it houses an eclectic collection of artefacts, which reflect Germany’s art and culture from prehistoric times through to the modern day.

Some of the most noteworthy exhibits are in the Medieval section , with stunning altarpieces and wooden statues. There are also several portraits by Nuremberg’s most famous son, Albrecht Dürer , as well as Martin Luther’s famous portrait by Lucas Cranach the Elder .

If you prefer creepy sights, there’s an entire section on ‘Old Justice’ , with fetters, stocks, metal masks and even an executioner’s sword.

Another unmissable sight for travel lovers is the Erdapfel , the oldest globe in the world, dating back from 1490. Naturally, there are some imperfections – the Americas are missing, Japan is twice its real size and some ‘mythical lands’ are included.

Don’t miss visiting – this is definitely Nuremberg’s best museum for history buffs!

31) Travel Through History at the City Museum in Fembo House

The City Museum in Fembo House is a restored merchant’s house from the 16th century , which presently houses art, culture, and historical exhibitions. It is located halfway up to the Castle, and it’s another great place to visit in Nuremberg for history lovers.

More than 950 years of German history are put on display inside this house with beautiful architecture. You can also see some replicas of the Crown Jewels, housed in Nuremberg’s castle for over four centuries.

If you are in a rush, the audioguides are a perfect way to get the gist of Nuremberg’s history in just half an hour.

32) Relive Your Childhood at the Toy Museum

Nuremberg has been renowned for its toy making industry for over 600 years – starting from the first medieval dolls, and extending all the way through present-day action figurines and toy train models.

At the Nuremberg Toy Museum, you’ll find ancient and modern toys on display, including an impressive collection of dollhouses of all shapes and sizes.

There is also a section where games can be played, making the Toy Museum a great thing to do in Nuremberg in winter or on a rainy day, especially with children!

33) Admire Architecture at the Neues Museum

Are you more into modern than ancient art? If that’s the case, make your way to the Neues Museum , dedicated to contemporary art and design.

First of all, the sleek, airy exhibition space will win you over – think lots of white, curved walls and a minimalistic aesthetic contrasting with the ‘fairytale look’ found all over Nuremberg.

Exhibition are rotated about twice a year, so if you’ve been to the museum before, you may find something completely new. Another reason to visit? There are beehives on the hotel roof , and you can buy their honey at the gift shop!

Best Day Trips from Nuremberg

34) get into nature in franconian switzerland.

If you’re one of those people that like escaping to nature after two or three days in a city, you’ll be pleased to know there’s amazing nature to be found within day trip distance from Nuremberg!

I’m talking about Franconian Switzerland , a region extending north of Nuremberg, where you’ll find rocks, caves, hiking trails, castles, rivers you can kayak and a lot more.

Check out our article about Franconian Switzerland to know more about what to expect!

35) Hike the 5 Seidla Steig

Another good reason to visit Franconian Switzerland is beer – the region is home to the highest concentration of microbreweries in Germany, and it’s possible to do go on ‘beer hikes’ , walking from one brewery to another.

The easiest of these hikes is the 5 Seidla Steig , which can easily be done as a day trip from Nuremberg . ‘Seidla’ means brewery – the trail connects five different breweries, and round-trip length is 18 km.

To know more, and to plan your own day trip from Nuremberg, have a look at our 5 Seidla Steig post!

36) Explore Fürth

Does Fürth even count as a day trip from Nuremberg? The two towns are actually adjacent, and it’s hard to notice where one ends and the other begin.

However, especially if you’re visiting Nuremberg in winter, Fürth can be a fun day trip to get away from the crowds.

There are a variety of fun points of interest to explore in Fürth , like the Wildschweingehege , a park dedicated to wild boars, the Comödie Fürth Art Nouveau theatre, and the Rathaus , resembling an uncanny similarity to Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio.

You can also visit museums if it’s a rainy day – the two best ones are the Jüdisches Museum , retracing the time when the city was home to Franconia’s largest Jewish community, and the Rundfunkmuseum , dedicated to radio and television broadcasting in Germany.

Have we missed any things to do in Nuremberg? Let us know in the comments!

We would like to thank the Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office and Franken Tourismus for having invited us to visit the region. Many thanks – we hope to be back very soon!

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1 review of Nuremberg Tourist Information Office

The Nuremberg Tourist Information Office is modern and large building designed to provide general and cultural information about the city. It's located in front of the station and below the medieval round tower. Opening hours are from Mon-Sat 9-19:00 and Sun 10-16.00. There's another office in the Hauptmarkt with longer opening hours: Mon-Sat 9-18:00 May to October and Sun from 10-16:00. During the Christmas Market, it opens Mon-Sat. 9-19:00 and Sun 10-19:00. They give out free maps.

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In Nuremberg there are plenty of ways to get from A to B. If you want to use environmentally friendly alternatives to an automobile, jump on the local public transportation or head off on a bicycle. On this page, you’ll find some useful information for your stay in Nuremberg.

You are planning a city trip to Nuremberg, and you're still looking for further information on the city? Then you are just at the right place. Here you will find our Nuremberg city guide, with insider tips on the topics of accommodation in Nuremberg, bars & nightlife, shopping, places of interest, events and much more for download. Get our free Nuremberg city guide now!

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Nuremberg information from A-Z: Cheap hotels, restaurants, city tours and package deals. ... Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office Verkehrsverein Nuernberg Frauentorgraben 3/IV D-90443 Nuernberg Phone: +49 911 2336-0 Fax: +49 911 2336-166 Email: [email protected]
Tourist Information
Come to our Tourist Information center. We are at your service! Our trained and multilingual staff will be pleased to help you and give you advice and support, so that you can take home fond memories of your stay in Nuremberg. ... Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office Verkehrsverein Nuernberg Frauentorgraben 3/IV D-90443 Nuernberg Phone: +49 ...
City of Nuremberg
Dear visitor, welcome to the official internet portal of the City of Nuremberg. English information for tourists is provided by the Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office. If you are interested in Nuremberg as a business location, you can take a look at the website of the Office for Economic Development.
Your Trip to Nuremberg: The Complete Guide
Planning Your Trip. Best Time to Visit: For the best weather, come from May to September: The skies are fairly dry and the sun is out—the perfect weather for days spent wandering Nuremberg's picturesque Old Town and checking out the nature in the region. Language: German is, of course, the main language spoken here, and there are three main ...
Visit Nuremberg, a reflection of German history
Impressive, exciting, colourful, mighty and tragic: Nuremberg has reflected German history since the Middle Ages. Protected by the castle, a new spirit enlivened the city at a time when few other places could offer such a quality of life. And the same is still true today. Nuremberg and its castle: To this day, the city's skyline is still ...
Nuremberg travel
Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria's second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place where the nightlife is intense and the beer is as dark as coffee. As one of Bavaria's biggest draws it is alive with visitors year-round, but especially during the spectacular Christmas market. 01 / Attractions.
Best Things to Do in Nuremberg, Germany
Address. Am Tiergarten 30, 90480 Nürnberg, Germany. Phone +49 911 54546. Web Visit website. Tiergarten Nürnberg (Nuremberg Zoo) is one of the largest zoos in Europe at nearly 70 hectares. Founded in 1912 and located in the Nuremberg Reichswald just east of the Altstadt, the zoo is in a former sandstone quarry.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Nuremberg
10. DB Museum (German Railway Museum) 681. Speciality Museums. Having opened its doors in 1882, the DB Museum is now the world's oldest museum devoted to the railways. Its main building is located in Nuremberg, and it also has two other branches - one in Koblenz and the other in Halle an der Saale. Property of the Deutsche Bahn Foundation, the ...
Nuremberg Germany
Nuremberg Tourist Office. Nuremberg has two main tourist information offices. The first is just over the road from the railway station on the way into the old town and the second tourist information centre is on Nuremberg's Market Square. They are both open all week, with slightly restricted hours on Sundays. Website: tourismus.nuernberg.de
19 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Nuremberg
11. Explore Königstrasse and the St. Lawrence Side. Handwerkerhof or Crafts Yard in Old Town Nuremberg. Nuremberg's St. Lawrence Side, or Lorenzer Seite, is named after its principal church, St. Lorenz, and lies in the section of the Old Town (Altstadt) that's located on the south bank of the river Pegnitz.
9 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Nuremberg, Germany
Visit The Courtroom Where The Nuremberg Trials Took Place. If you are interested in WWII history, plan to go to the Palace of Justice, where the Nuremberg Trials took place in 1945 and 1946. The Nuremberg Trials Memorial, an information and documentation center, is on the top floor of the courthouse. And the actual location of the trials ...
Contact
Nuremberg Congress and Tourism Centre. Telephone +49 (0)911 / 2 33 60. Fax +49 (0)911 / 2 33 61 66. E-Mail ... Press Enquiries. Press and Information Office. Fünferplatz 2. 90403 Nürnberg. Public Transportation Telephone +49(0)911 / 2 31-23 72, -29 62, 22 52. Fax +49(0)911 / 2 31-23 72, -29 62, 22 52. To encoded transmission of your message ...
Nuremberg
Taxi. You will find taxi stands all over the town and especially at the Nuremberg Fair Ground, the Airport and at the east and south entrances of the Nuremberg main railway station. For information about journey times and prices and to make reservations just call: +49 911/19410. Read more. Tourist Information.
About us
Nuremberg. about us. Nuremberg is a large and lively city with a medieval flair, a rich offering of art and culture and delicious culinary specialties. It's the task of the Nuremberg Convention and Tourism Office to market this fabulous place. On this website, we have put together a variety of information about us and our work.
Top 30 Things To Do In Nuremberg [Don't Miss Them!]
Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) Also referred to as Nuremberg Castle or the Imperial Castle, Kaiserburg is a big castle complex above the Old Town that should be one of your top Nuremberg places to visit. Always the heart of Nuremberg, this castle once was the centre of power in this region of the Holy Roman Empire.
Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office
Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office | 414 followers on LinkedIn. Leading the Nuremberg tourism industry into a digital future! | Nuremberg is a large and lively city with a medieval flair, a ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Nuremberg
10. DB Museum (German Railway Museum) 681. Speciality Museums. Having opened its doors in 1882, the DB Museum is now the world's oldest museum devoted to the railways. Its main building is located in Nuremberg, and it also has two other branches - one in Koblenz and the other in Halle an der Saale. Property of the Deutsche Bahn Foundation, the ...
36 Amazing Things to do in Nuremberg
1) Visit Nuremberg Castle. The mighty Castle. You can't miss Nuremberg Castle, sitting on a sandstone ridge right at the north of the Nuremberg Altstadt. It is not one single castle, but a group of fortified buildings surrounded by walls - and visiting it is probably the #1 unmissable thing to do in Nuremberg.
Nuremberg Tourist Information Office
The Nuremberg Tourist Information Office is modern and large building designed to provide general and cultural information about the city. It's located in front of the station and below the medieval round tower. Opening hours are from Mon-Sat 9-19:00 and Sun 10-16.00. There's another office in the Hauptmarkt with longer opening hours: Mon-Sat 9-18:00 May to October and Sun from 10-16:00 ...
Getting around Nuremberg
Tips and information about Nuremberg's neighbor cities and sightseeing in the region ... Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office Verkehrsverein Nuernberg Frauentorgraben 3/IV D-90443 Nuernberg Phone: +49 911 2336-0 Fax: +49 911 2336-166 Email: [email protected]

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Nuremberg: Germany's most vibrant museum of history

Imperial Castle

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Attractions

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Nuremberg, Germany

Walk Nuremberg's Old Town & City Walls

Storm the Castle

Visit the Home of Albrecht Dürer

Visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Memorialize the Nuremberg Trials

Eat at the World's Oldest Sausage Restaurant

Celebrate Christmas at One of Germany's Best Markets

Circle Old Town on the Mini-Train

Marvel at the Architecture of Weinstadel

Go Underground to the Medieval Dungeons

Explore the Germanic National Museum

Watch the Clock at the Church

Dine in a 700-Year-Old Hospital

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at the Zoo

Turn the Golden Ring for Luck

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg - Try These Things To Do

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Nuremberg, Nuremburg or Nürnberg?

A Brief History of Nuremberg

Albrecht Dürer and Nuremberg

Nuremberg and the Nazi Party

The Nuremberg Rallies

The Nuremberg Race Laws

The Nuremberg Trials

Other towns in Middle Franconia

Nuremberg Tourist Office

19 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Nuremberg

1. Take a Walking Tour of Nuremberg Castle

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9 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Nuremberg, Germany

Center Your Visit In The Old Town

Put A Tour Of The Imperial Castle Of Nuremberg At The Top Of Your List

Go Underground At The Art Bunker

Shop Till You Drop In Nuremberg

Explore World War II History At The Documentation Center And Rally Grounds

Visit The Courtroom Where The Nuremberg Trials Took Place

On A Rainy Day, Head To The Train Museum

Relax With The Efficient Transportation Options

Come For Magical Christmas Cheer

General Enquiries

Nuremberg Congress and Tourism Centre

Press and Information Office

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Top 30 Things To Do In Nuremberg [Don’t Miss Them!]

An Introduction To Nuremberg

Top 24 Things To Do In Nuremberg Germany

Altstadt (Old Town)

Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle)

Historischer Kunstbunker (Historic Art Bunker)

Albrecht-Dürer-Haus

Stadtmuseum Fembohaus (Fembo House City Museum)

Felsengänge (Undergound Cellars)

St Sebalduskirche

Mittelalterliche Lochgefängnisse (Medieval Dungeons)

Frauenkirche (Church Of Our Lady)

Weinstadel (Wine Depot)

Henkersteg (Hangman’s Bridge)