Nuremberg Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Nuremberg with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, food and drink scene, accommodations, and transportation tips.


Introduction to Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a charming city in Middle Franconia, Bavaria, in Germany, known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and picturesque scenery. A city with deep roots in the medieval era, Nuremberg is now a bustling modern metropolis that attracts tourists from all over the world. The city is easily accessible by train, bus, or car, and has everything from enchanting castles to lush forests and vibrant nightlife. This guide will provide an in-depth exploration of all the sights to see and experiences to enjoy in this beautiful Bavarian city.

List of Places to Visit in Nuremberg

Here is a list of top places to visit in Nuremberg, divided into two sections: culturally important attractions and natural attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Nuremberg Castle - a beautiful hilltop castle with panoramic views of the city
  2. Germanisches Nationalmuseum - one of the largest cultural history museums in Europe with a vast collection of art and artifacts
  3. St. Lorenz Church - a grand Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows and elaborate tombs
  4. Albrecht Dürer House - the former home of famous Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer, showcasing his life and work
  5. Nuremberg Trials Memorial - a thought-provoking memorial to the war crimes trials held in Nuremberg after World War II

Natural Attractions of Nuremberg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pegnitz River - a serene, tree-lined river running through the heart of the city, perfect for strolling or biking
  2. Tiergarten Nürnberg - a scenic wildlife park featuring over 300 different animal species
  3. Kaiserburg Nürnberg - a stunning fortress with beautiful gardens and a moat that makes for an excellent walk
  4. St. Johannis Cemetery - a peaceful cemetery with beautifully carved tombstones and an eerie atmosphere
  5. Wöhrder Wiese - a sprawling park near the city center that hosts wonderful events throughout the year

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a city with a lot to offer outside of tourist attractions. The natural beauty of the city lends itself perfectly to hiking and biking, with many great routes available. Some of the top hiking and biking trails include:

  1. Franconian Switzerland - a scenic region with beautiful limestone cliffs and charming villages, perfect for cycling
  2. Rednitztal Valley - a picturesque path that follows the Rednitz River, providing stunning views of the surrounding nature
  3. Pegnitztal Valley Trail - a beautiful forest trail that runs alongside the Pegnitz River and offers an immersive nature experience
  4. Nuremberg to Fuerth Trail - a lively bike path that connects the two cities and provides breathtaking views of the countryside

Best Things to Do in Nuremberg: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Nuremberg, and day-trips out of the city are possible as well. Here are the top activities and tours to help you navigate everything Nuremberg has to offer:

  1. Nuremberg Christmas Market - the city’s world-famous Christmas market, with hundreds of stalls selling delicious food, drinks, and crafts
  2. Nuremberg Old Town Walk - an excellent way to experience and discover the city’s charming old town and historical landmarks
  3. Food Tour - a guided tour that takes you through some of the city’s hidden foodie gems and allows you to sample a variety of local dishes
  4. Franconian Brewery Tour - a thrilling way to experience the local beer culture, with a chance to sample some of the region’s finest brews
  5. Bamberg Day-Trip - a fantastic way to explore the beautiful city of Bamberg, just a short train ride from Nuremberg

Week-Long Itinerary for Nuremberg

Here is a sample week-long itinerary to help you make the most out of your stay in Nuremberg:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Nuremberg Old Town
Day 2 Visit museums and galleries
Day 3 Hike through the Franconian Switzerland
Day 4 Enjoy a local beer in a brewery
Day 5 Visit Bamberg on a day-trip
Day 6 Take a food tour
Day 7 Visit the Nuremberg Castle and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city

Food and Drink Scene of Nuremberg

Nuremberg has a vibrant food and drink scene, featuring some of the best local dishes and beverages in Bavaria.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Nuremberg Sausages - small, grilled sausages served with sauerkraut and dark bread
  2. Lebkuchen - a traditional German gingerbread that is perfect for dessert and snack
  3. Schäufele - a roasted pork shoulder that is tender and juicy, usually served with potato dumplings and gravy
  4. Spargel - local white asparagus served with hollandaise sauce, boiled potatoes, and ham
  5. Dampfnudel - a sweet and fluffy dumpling served with vanilla sauce and fruit compote

Local Beverages

  1. Franconian Wine - the region is known for producing high-quality wine, with a focus on dry white varieties
  2. Rauchbier - a smoked beer that is famous in Bamberg, located near Nuremberg
  3. Glühwein - a hot mulled wine that is popular during the holiday season
  4. Obstler - a strong fruit brandy that is commonly served as an after-dinner drink

Where to Stay in Nuremberg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nuremberg has a range of accommodations available to suit every budget and preference. Some of the top options include:

  1. Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg - an elegant hotel located in the heart of the city, perfect for luxury seekers
  2. Five Reasons Hostel & Hotel - a comfortable, affordable option for backpackers and budget travelers
  3. Hotel Elch Boutique - a charming boutique hotel that is centrally located, close to all the major attractions
  4. Novotel Nürnberg Centre Ville - a modern hotel with spacious rooms and a central location, perfect for families and business travelers
  5. Gasthof Hotel Pillhofer - a cozy guesthouse with beautiful traditional decor, located in the heart of the old town

What to Buy in Nuremberg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nuremberg is famous for its wide array of local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best items to consider bringing back home:

  1. Gingerbread - the iconic Christmas food can be found all year round and makes for a delicious souvenir
  2. Handmade glassware - Nuremberg is known for its beautiful handmade glassware and crystal products, available in many sizes and shapes
  3. Traditional toys - the city is home to a thriving toy industry, and classic toys such as wooden trains and dolls can be found in many shops
  4. Hand-painted Christmas ornaments - unique and festive Christmas decorations, painted and crafted by local artists
  5. Local wine - bring home a bottle of Franconian wine to savor the flavor of Nuremberg long after your trip is over.

Local Culture and Customs of Nuremberg

Nuremberg has a rich and fascinating culture, embodied in its history, architecture, and social customs. Some of the most interesting local customs include:

  1. The Christmas Market - an iconic symbol of Nuremberg’s culture, with hundreds of stalls selling holiday goodies
  2. The Spittlberg Christmas Village - a charming neighborhood with artisan workshops selling glass and wood products
  3. Fasching Festival - the Bavarian carnival season celebrated in Nuremberg with parades, costumes, and dancing
  4. The Nuremberg Rally - a historical Nazi party rally held in Nuremberg during the 1930s and documented in films and literature.

Best Time to Visit Nuremberg

The best time to visit Nuremberg depends on your preferences. The holiday season and Christmas market are popular, but the crowds can be intense. Spring and fall offer milder weather and smaller crowds. Summer is a popular time for outdoor activities and festivals but can be crowded and hot. Ultimately, the best time to visit Nuremberg depends on your travel priorities and interests.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nuremberg

Here are some basic do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while traveling in Nuremberg:

Do:

  1. Try local food and beer
  2. Respect local customs and traditions
  3. Explore the cobblestone streets and historic landmarks
  4. Learn about the city’s deep history and rich culture

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage any historical sites
  2. Overly exaggerate your German language skills while speaking with locals
  3. Forget to bring cash as some small vendors may not accept credit cards
  4. Take photographs without permission

Safety and Health

Nuremberg is a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take proper precautions when traveling. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Nuremberg

  1. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas such as the Christmas market or public transport
  2. Practice good judgment when consuming local alcoholic beverages
  3. Beware of traffic and pedestrian signs while walking or cycling through the city

Health in Nuremberg

  1. Bring any necessary medications and prescriptions with you throughout your journey
  2. Drink tap water unless a bottled water supply is available
  3. Be mindful of your food and drink choices to avoid stomach issues, especially while trying out new local cuisine

Getting to Nuremberg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nuremberg is very well connected to other cities in the region, making getting there a breeze. Here are some travel options to consider:

Airports Near Nuremberg

  1. Nürnberg Airport - the closest airport to the city, about 6 miles away or a 15 minute taxi ride

Bus Stations Near Nuremberg

  1. Nuremberg Central Bus Station (ZOB) - located near the central train station, offering regional and international bus connections

Other Options

  1. Driving: Nuremberg is easily accessible via the A3, A6, A9, and A73 highways.
  2. Train: Deutsche Bahn offers daily trains from major German cities like Frankfurt, Berlin, and Munich.

How to Get Around in Nuremberg

Navigating Nuremberg is a cinch, thanks to the city’s excellent transportation infrastructure. Some of the best ways to get around include:

  1. Cycling - Nuremberg is very bike-friendly, with plenty of bike lanes and rental shops available throughout the city
  2. Public transport - the city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and subways that makes getting around a breeze
  3. Walking - many of the city’s most fascinating sights and neighborhoods are located within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Nuremberg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you feel like exploring beyond Nuremberg, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  1. Bamberg - a charming, historic city located just over an hour away by train
  2. Regensburg - a delightful medieval town located about 1.5 hours from Nuremberg
  3. Munich - a must-visit destination in Germany, located just 2 hours via train from Nuremberg.

Conclusion

Nuremberg is a fantastic Bavarian city that offers a lot to travelers. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and gorgeous natural surroundings, it’s a perfect destination for anyone who loves culture, history, and outdoor adventures. This guide should help you plan your travel to Nuremberg with ease and ensure that you experience all the city has to offer.

Castle with Castle with "Heimlicher Wächtergang", Sinwell Tower and Walpurgis Chapel Old Town Old Town S-Bahn, U-bahn and tram network of Nuremberg S-Bahn, U-bahn and tram network of Nuremberg Map of Nuremberg's Old Town (''Altstadt''), click to enlarge. Map of Nuremberg's Old Town (''Altstadt''), click to enlarge. Weinstadel Weinstadel Heilig Geist Spital Heilig Geist Spital Henkersteg Henkersteg Transportation Museum Transportation Museum Kongresshalle Nuremberg at the Reichsparteitagsgelände Kongresshalle Nuremberg at the Reichsparteitagsgelände