Things To Do
in Nuremberg
Nuremberg is a compact medieval gem in Bavaria, where soaring ramparts and timber-framed houses overlook a broad river valley. The city blends centuries of history with a lively modern arts and food scene. The UNESCO-listed old town anchors a maze of cobbled lanes, beer halls, and markets that come alive especially around Christmas.
Visitors enjoy a walkable center, grand castles, and a gateway to Franconian culture and cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets of Nuremberg’s Old Town. Visit the iconic Kaiserburg Castle and take in panoramic views of the city from its towers. Don’t miss the charming shops and bakeries where you can sample traditional Nuremberg gingerbread.
Explore the bustling Hauptmarkt square, home to the beautiful Frauenkirche church and vibrant market stalls. Have lunch at a traditional Franconian restaurant, savoring dishes like bratwurst and sauerkraut. Afterwards, visit the Albrecht Dürer House to learn about the life of the famous Renaissance artist.
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Pegnitz River as the sun sets, watching the city lights reflect on the water. Dine at a cozy local tavern offering hearty Bavarian specialties paired with regional beers. End your evening with a visit to a historic wine bar or a quiet cafe in the old town.
Begin at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds to deeply understand Nuremberg’s role during WWII. Explore the comprehensive museum exhibits that detail the rise and fall of the Nazi regime. Take time to walk around the vast rally grounds and see the monumental Zeppelin Field.
Have lunch near the museum district before heading to the Memorium Nuremberg Trials at the Palace of Justice. Tour the courtroom where the historic trials took place and reflect on the importance of justice and accountability. Spend some time in the nearby park to absorb the solemn history of the area.
Relax at a modern bistro in the city center, enjoying contemporary German cuisine. Stroll through illuminated streets admiring the blend of historic and modern architecture. Finish the night with a quiet drink at a rooftop bar overlooking Nuremberg’s skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-9 |
| 🧀Local snack or street food | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval heritage and world-class museums
- Excellent Franconian cuisine and beer culture
- Walkable historic center with efficient public transport
- Vibrant Christmas markets and seasonal events
- Good rail and road access to other Bavarian towns and major hubs
- Crowded tourist areas during peak seasons
- Parking can be difficult in the old town
- Some neighborhoods have limited English signage
- City traffic can be busy during events
- Higher prices in central areas compared to smaller towns
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The check, please.
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
Places to Visit in Nuremberg
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic hilltop fortress with city views, medieval towers, and expansive grounds—ideal for wide-angle cityscapes.
Historic square framed by colorful facades; the Beautiful Fountain provides a classic photo moment.
Gothic cathedral with soaring arches and intricate façades for architectural photography.
Picturesque plaza and tower offering city views from a quieter vantage point.
Ancient fortifications and scenic river crossings deliver dramatic lines and textures.
Food in Nuremberg
Nuremberg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny grilled sausages served with sauerkraut, potato salad, or in a bun with mustard; best enjoyed from a local stand or Bratwursthäusle.
Must-Try!
World-famous gingerbread, made with honey, nuts, and spices; particularly beloved around Christmas but available year-round in bakeries.
Slow-roasted pork shoulder dish, often served with dumplings and red cabbage; a robust Franconian staple.
Creamy cheese noodles with caramelized onions—a comforting regional vegetarian option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic square around the Frauenkirche where you can sample pretzels, sausages, roasted nuts, and seasonal bites.
World-famous Christmas market offering Lebkuchen, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and festive crafts (late November through December).
Street stalls offering Nürnberger Rostbratwürstle on fresh bread with mustard—perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; use the formal Sie with strangers and older adults unless invited to Du.
Be punctual; maintain personal space in queues and quiet spaces; keep voices moderate in public.
Wait for everyone to be served before starting; tipping is appreciated when service is good.
Safety
Tipping in Nuremberg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants and bars is common.
Cash and cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming gardens; a pleasant time for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Warm days with occasional showers; stay hydrated and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Golden light and harvest events; many cafés and markets shine with seasonal flavors.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; Christmas markets light up the old town with festive warmth.
Nuremberg at Night
Hiking in Nuremberg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Renowned hiking and climbing region with scenic rock formations, forests, and village charm about an hour from Nuremberg.
Relaxed lakeside trails around Rothsee offering easy to moderate hikes and scenic water views.
Airports
How to reach Nuremberg by plane.
Albrecht Dürer Airport serves domestic and international flights; connect to the city center by train or taxi.
A major international hub about 170 km southwest, reachable by high-speed rail or car.
One of Europe’s largest hubs, about 3-4 hours away by rail; convenient for intercontinental connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of longtime locals and families with a strong craft and manufacturing heritage.
Active student scene and affordable eateries, especially around university areas.
A high share of international travelers, particularly during Christmas markets and major fairs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local passion in autumn and winter, with home matches at the Grundig Stadion.
DEL team with a dedicated fan base and arena atmosphere.
Group sports, running clubs, and climbing in nearby parks and gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nuremberg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes; look for Gemüse- or Käsegerichte, salads, and veggie sausages.