Things to do in Nuremberg, Germany
We spent one day in Nuremberg before boarding our fabulous Christmas Market River Cruise on AmaWaterways.
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We loved Nuremberg, but it was so cold! This was probably the coldest day of our vacation. However, the snowfall transformed Nuremberg into a winter wonderland, making it even more magical!
The must-see attractions in Nuremberg include:
Nuremberg Castle
Historic Old Town with its charming half-timbered houses
The iconic Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt)
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds for a sobering look into the city's past. Despite having been severely damaged in WWII, many of the medieval buildings in the Old Town (Altstadt) have been painstakingly restored to their former glory.
Nuremberg lies between Munich and Frankfurt and is straight out of a fairytale! Nuremberg can be explored in a day or two. You can easily arrive by train. It’s 1 hour from Munich and 2 hours 20 minutes from Frankfurt.
Nuremberg Castle
Begin your day with panoramic views of Old Town from this medieval fortress that’s perched atop a hill. Wander through the castle grounds, and explore its historical exhibits. A great way to get the most out of your castle visit is to join a walking tour of Nuremberg.
This 1.5-hour Medieval Tour also takes in other important landmarks along the way, the historic Albrecht Dürer House, and the Sebalder and Lorenzer Altstadt.
Hauptmarkt
After your walking tour of the Nuremberg Castle, spend time exploring the city's Hauptmarkt, or "Main Market." The Market Square, in Nuremberg, is the vibrant heart of the city's Old Town and a must-visit. This historic square is surrounded by medieval buildings, bustling shops, and charming cafes. At the center of the Hauptmarkt stands the beautiful Schoner Brunnen, or Beautiful Fountain, with intricate sculptures and colorful decorations. This iconic landmark is a popular meeting point and photo spot.
TIP: A ring embedded in the fence surrounding the fountain is said to bring good luck to those who spin it... It could also improve your fertility.
Throughout the year, the Market Square hosts various events and festivals, including the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt). This is one of the oldest Christmas Markets in Germany, dating back to the 16th century. This enchanting market draws millions of visitors from around the world with its festive decorations, traditional handicrafts, and delicious Nuremberg gingerbread.
In addition to the Christmas Market, the Market Square is also home to the daily farmers' market, where local vendors sell fresh produce and flowers.
Albrecht Durer House
A visit to the Albrecht Durer House is a must for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Nuremberg and the Renaissance period.
It’s a journey into the life and work of one of the greatest artists of the Northern Renaissance, Albrecht Durer. Located in the heart of Nuremberg's Old Town, this restored 15th-century house was once the residence and workshop of Durer himself.
As you step inside the Albrecht Durer House, you'll be transported back in time to the Renaissance era. Explore the various rooms, including Durer's living quarters, kitchen, and workshop, where he created many of his masterpieces.
Nuremberg Christmas Market
With our tour guide Eric
Nobody does Christmas like the Germans! They started Christmas Markets in the Middle Ages and have perfected this tradition. For a taste of sweet indulgence, visit the world-renowned Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) during the holiday season. There are three-holiday markets spread around Nuremberg’s Old Town. Lose yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you wander among festively decorated stalls offering traditional treats like gingerbread cookies, roasted almonds, and mulled wine.
Handwerkerhof Market
The Handwerkerhof Market in Nuremberg is a charming artisan village located just steps away from Hauptmarkt, tucked along the old city wall behind the massive stone watchtower. This hidden gem offers visitors a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship and local culture, with a variety of workshops, boutiques, and stalls showcasing handmade goods and artisanal products.
As you wander through the Handwerkerhof Market, you'll encounter skilled craftsmen and women practicing their trades, from woodcarvers and glassblowers to metalworkers and leatherworkers.
The market is also home to several quaint shops and boutiques selling a wide range of artisanal products, including handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, and souvenirs. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and gifts to take home as mementos of your visit to Nuremberg.
This courtyard is open year-round but is especially festive when decked out for the holidays.
Weissgerbergasse
Walking along Weissgerbergasse is like stepping back in time to medieval Nuremberg. This charming cobblestone street, located in the heart of the city's Old Town, is lined with beautifully preserved half-timbered houses dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries and is one of the most beautiful streets in Nuremberg.
Along the way, you'll find quaint shops, boutiques, and cafes, offering a mix of modern amenities and old-world charm. Take your time to explore the hidden courtyards, narrow alleyways, and picturesque squares that dot the neighborhood.
Weissgerbergasse is also home to the Nuremberg Toy Museum, where visitors can learn about the city's long history of toy-making and marvel at vintage toys and games from generations past. It’s widely regarded as the leading museum of its kind in the world and is a fun attraction for kids of all ages, as well as adults.
St. Lawrence's Church (St. Lorenz)
St. Lorenz Church is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nuremberg and is the city's largest church. This medieval church, dedicated to St. Lawrence, is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and history. Admire the church's grand exterior, with twin towers and ornate sculptures, before stepping inside to explore its awe-inspiring interior. Don't miss the chance to climb the church tower for panoramic views of Nuremberg's Old Town.
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds (Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelande) in Nuremberg offers a sobering and insightful look into one of the darkest chapters of German history. Housed in the Congress Hall, one of the few unfinished buildings of the Nazi era, the Documentation Center serves as a museum and educational institution dedicated to exploring the history and legacy of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
One of the most striking features of the Documentation Center is the preserved ruins of the Congress Hall itself, which serve as a powerful reminder of the scale and ambition of Hitler's regime. Explore the vast interior of the building, which was intended to accommodate 50,000 spectators during Nazi Party rallies.
The museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and special exhibitions that shed light on various aspects of Nazi ideology, propaganda, and persecution.
Join a walking tour of Former Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
Wander the bridges
Weinstadel
The Weinstadel is a historic building located in the heart of Nuremberg's Old Town, along the banks of the Pegnitz River. This charming half-timbered structure dates back to the 15th century and is one of the city's most picturesque landmarks. Originally used as a wine depot and tavern, the Weinstadel now houses a restaurant renowned for its traditional Franconian cuisine and scenic riverside terrace.
Hangman's Bridge
The unusual name comes from the neighboring tower, where the hangman of Nuremberg lived between the 16th and 19th centuries.
German National Museum
Germany's largest museum of cultural history, featuring a vast collection of art, artifacts, and historical objects spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Walk the City Walls
Walking the city walls in Nuremberg is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's history and enjoy panoramic views of its picturesque Old Town. The Nuremberg city walls are among the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe.
Start your walk at the Tiergartnertor, one of the original gates of the city, and follow the well-marked path along the walls. As you stroll along the ramparts, you'll pass by ancient towers, and gates, each with its own story to tell. Don't miss the chance to climb the stairs to the top of the towers for breathtaking views of Nuremberg and the surrounding countryside.
Along the way, you'll encounter informational plaques and displays that provide insights into the history and significance of the city walls.
Cellars & Dungeons:
Exploring the historic cellars of Nuremberg is a fascinating journey into the city's underground world. Here are some cellar tours you might enjoy:
Nuremberg Dungeon Tour: Take a guided tour through the dark and mysterious underground passages beneath Nuremberg's Old Town. Learn about the city's medieval past, including tales of torture, crime, and intrigue, as you navigate the labyrinthine cellars.
Take a Historischer Kunstbunker WWII Art Bunker Tour: Explore the vast tunnel complex under Nuremberg Castle in the Historischer Kunstbunker on this guided tour. Admire the artwork that this shelter protected and learn about the WWII bombing of the city.
St. Sebaldus Church
St. Sebaldus Church, or Sebalduskirche, is one of the most significant medieval churches in Nuremberg, dedicated to Saint Sebaldus, a patron saint of Nuremberg. The church's origins can be traced back to the 13th century, although its construction continued over several centuries, resulting in a blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Baroque elements. The church houses priceless works of art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Albrecht Durer and Veit Stoss.
Take a private 1.5-hour tour of the church's towers; spaces are limited for this twice-weekly event. Be sure to arrive early to purchase your tickets. Climb the church tower for panoramic views of Nuremberg's Old Town and surrounding landscape.
Frauenkirche: The Church of Our Lady
The Roman Catholic Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) dates back to 1352 and is a must-see Gothic landmark. You can't miss it when visiting Nuremberg's Hauptmarkt.
Beer & Food Tasting Tours
It’s no secret that Germans love their beer, when in Rome…
Private 1.5-hour Tour with Brewery Visit
World War 2 History Tour with Beer Tasting
Traditional Food Tasting and Sightseeing Tour
Red beer & blue sausage. A culinary walk through Nuremberg
Grober Dutzendteich
The Grober Dutzendteich, or Large Dutzend Pond, is a scenic lake located in the southern part of Nuremberg's Dutzendteich recreational area. Rent a rowboat or pedal boat from the nearby boathouse and set off on a cruise around the lake. You’ll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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