Top Attractions and Activities in Nuremberg, Germany

Best Things to Do in Nuremberg

Nuremberg is filled with museums and theatres, and the beautifully restored Old Town (Altstadt) makes for a pleasant stroll with pretty half-timbered houses lining its streets. Nuremberg has something for every traveler, so let’s explore the best things to do in Nuremberg to optimize your visit.

1. Nuremberg Castle – Imperial Castle of Nuremberg

One of the first things to do in Nuremberg is to visit Nuremberg Castle. The Imperial Castle is a symbol of Nuremberg and has stood since the Middle Ages, dating back to 1050. This historic castle signifies the city’s power during the Holy Roman Empire.

Take a walk up to the castle grounds for stunning views of Nuremberg’s Altstadt (The Old Town) and consider participating in a tour inside to explore its historic halls, which remain significant long after the fall of the Empire. Notable attractions include its Deep Well plunging 48m (158ft) into the earth, the Sinwell Tower, rose gardens, castle chapel, and Imperial Hall.

2. Old City Walls

Another impressive sight in Nuremberg is its Old City Walls. Constructed between the 12th and 16th centuries, these robust city walls still span 5km around the Old Town today. Visitors can walk along portions of the walls, exploring various towers and gates that lead from the Nuremberg Castle around the historic town.

3. Hauptmarkt

No trip to Nuremberg would be complete without visiting Hauptmarkt. Nuremberg’s Main Market and central square, Hauptmarkt features the Old Town Hall (Nurnberger Rathaus) and Nuremberg’s only Baroque church, St. Giles’ Church. The star attraction here is the magnificent fountain at Hauptmarkt.

4. Schöner Brunnen

Schöner Brunnen is an ornate fountain dating back to the 14th century, featuring 40 figures that represent the worldview of the Holy Roman Empire. Rising 19 meters high, it resembles a Gothic spire. Local legend states that turning the golden ring while making a wish will ensure it comes true!

5. Frauenkirche – The Church of Our Lady

This stunning Gothic church was constructed by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor, between 1352 and 1362. When visiting Hauptmarkt, you cannot miss this landmark. Consider joining a private walking tour for a deeper exploration of the Old Town, including sights like Albrecht Dürer’s House and Nuremberg Castle.

6. Medieval Dungeons

For a glimpse into the darker chapters of history, visit the Medieval Dungeons located in the cellars of Nuremberg’s Old Town Hall. Inside, you’ll discover twelve tiny cells and a torture chamber, providing a haunting insight into medieval times.

7. Weißegerbergasse

Located in the Old Town, Weißegerbergasse offers a unique stroll through history. This picturesque street is lined with historic timber houses that once served as artists’ and craftsmen’s residences, making it one of the most charming walking paths in Nuremberg.

8. Handwerkerhof Nuremberg

Another delightful section in the Old Town is the Handwerkerhof Nuremberg, a quaint artisan village adjacent to the Old City Walls. Dating back to the 15th century, this area invites visitors to enjoy a pint outdoors while observing artisans at work.

9. Nürnberger Felsengänge – Nuremberg Rock Passages

Among the best things to do in Nuremberg is to explore the Nürnberger Felsengänge, a labyrinth of 600-year-old underground tunnels used for cooling and storing beer. The passages served as shelters during air raids in World War II, highlighting the city’s strategic importance during the war.

Cool Fact: At one point, Nuremberg had over 40 breweries, leading to the creation of extensive rock cellars for storing beer.

10. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

When visiting Nuremberg, a trip to the Documentation Center and Nazi Party Rally Grounds is essential. This location not only educates visitors about Hitler’s rise to power but also honors those who suffered under the Nazi regime. The exhibits confront the brutal reality of that era, providing a sobering experience.

11. Palace of Justice – Nuremberg Trials

Explore the Palace of Justice, where the historic Nuremberg Trials occurred in Courtroom 600. This location witnessed the trials of high-ranking Nazis responsible for egregious human rights abuses.

The Memorium Nuremberg Trials is located on the top floor of the courthouse and offers comprehensive information about the trials and their lasting impact.

12. Germanic National Museum

With a museum pass, visitors can explore the Germanic National Museum, home to the largest collection of German art and culture. Don’t miss the outdoor exhibit, The Way of Human Rights (Straße der Menschenrechte), which features 27 pillars depicting messages on human rights.

13. Nuremberg Transport Museum

Transportation enthusiasts will enjoy the Nuremberg Transport Museum (Verkehrsmuseum Nürnberg), showcasing scale models, railway cars, and locomotives. The museum, one of the oldest in Germany, highlights Nuremberg’s role in railway history.

14. Albrecht Dürer’s House

Albrecht Dürer’s House, located near Nuremberg Castle, is a must-see for art lovers. This historic timber house celebrates one of Germany’s most renowned Renaissance artists and has been transformed into a museum honoring his life and works.

15. Neues Museum Nürnberg

For fans of contemporary art, the Neues Museum Nürnberg offers a feast for the eyes. Beyond its impressive collection, visitors can admire the striking spiral staircase that leads to the exhibits.

16. St. Sebaldus Church

St. Sebaldus Church, located in Albrecht-Dürer-Platz, is a vital historical site in Nuremberg. Dating back to 1225, this church features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Inside, you can view the tomb of Saint Sebald, the city’s patron saint.

17. St. Lorenz Church

Another remarkable church to visit is St. Lorenz. Construction on this Gothic-style building began in 1439, featuring stunning twin towers and one of the largest pipe organs in the world. Many of its artistic treasures were preserved due to the influence of wealthy patrons.

18. Bratwurstglöcklein im Handwerkerhof

Nuremberg is famous for its bratwurst, which is protected by a special designation. One of the best places to try this delicacy is at Bratwurstglöcklein im Handwerkerhof, which has been serving Nürnberger Bratwurst since 1313. Be sure to enjoy it with sauerkraut, potato salad, horseradish, and a pretzel.

19. Take a Walk Along the Canal

Strolling along the canal offers picturesque views of the half-timbered houses that line the waterfront. The Holy Spirit Hospital (Heilig-Geist-Spital) is one of the most photographed locations in Nuremberg, originally one of the largest hospitals, it now houses a bratwurst restaurant—a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Where to Stay in Nuremberg

For accommodations, consider the Adina Apartment Hotel, conveniently walking distance to various attractions. Featuring comfortable rooms and amenities like an indoor pool, it’s a solid choice for travelers.

How to Get Around Nuremberg

Nuremberg is very easy to navigate on foot, with most attractions within reach in the Old Town and nearby areas. Additionally, the city provides efficient public transit, including U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines, with regular service to and from the airport.

While a car can be advantageous for exploring the surrounding Bavarian region, for city exploration, walking offers the most convenient way to experience Nuremberg’s highlights.