Nuremberg Germany, a gem in Bavaria, is one of my favorite cities! 🇩🇪 This charming city has captured my heart with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and the bustling Hauptmarkt.
With its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and unique attractions, Nuremberg is a must-visit day trip from Munich. Explore the historic Kaiserburg, wander through the Nuremberg Castle, or simply soak up the atmosphere in the charming old town.
Trust me, you won’t regret exploring this hidden gem!
1 Day in Nuremberg:
How I got to Nuremberg:
Nuremberg is well-connected to other city in Germany and can be reached by train, bus and plane. It makes a great day trip too!
I spent 2.5 weeks exploring Germany by train, visiting friends in Munich, Hamburg, and Aachen. Nuremberg was a convenient stopover on my journey to Berlin, and I had about a day and a half to explore this charming city.
I took advantage of the Deutschland Ticket, a monthly travel pass for regional trains and transit throughout Germany, to make my trip more affordable. It was a total game-changer! I saved a ton of money and was able to explore so many smaller towns as day trips from bigger cities like Munich and Hamburg.
My trip from Munich to Nuremberg took about 2 hours by regional train. The next day, I hopped on a Flix bus to reach Berlin.
Even though I had to pay for the Flix bus, it was a great value at under 20 euros. It took about the same amount of time as a train and at a much lower cost. Technically, I could have used regional trains to save even more, but that would have taken like 3 times longer and involved multiple transfers.
Top Things to Do in Nuremberg
Nuremberg Germany offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Beyond its infamous role in World War II, the city boasts a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors.
A Fortress of History: Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
I couldn’t resist climbing the hill to visit Castle Nuremberg. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking! Exploring its medieval walls and towers felt like stepping back in time.
Wandering Through the Old Town
I loved wandering through the charming streets of Nuremberg’s Old Town. It felt like I was stumbling upon hidden gems at every corner. The colorful houses and historic buildings were so cute! Can you believe that the town was almost completely destroyed by air raids during World War II? It’s amazing how they were able to rebuild it so beautifully.
The Heart of Nuremberg Hauptmarkt
Hauptmarkt is a must-visit! Just a short stroll from the church, you’ll find the stunning Schöner Brunnen, a beautiful fountain that captures the essence of Nuremberg.
One of my highlights was visiting the Church of Our Lady, a Gothic gem nestled in the bustling main square. Known locally as Frauenkirche, this 14th-century beauty is a testament to the city’s history. Stepping inside, I was instantly captivated by its peaceful ambiance.
During the Christmas season, the square transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
Weißgerbergasse (Tanners’ Lane)
This charming street was my favorite street to explore in Nuremberg! This charming pedestrian street is lined with some of the most beautiful half-timbered houses I’ve ever seen. It was once home to the city’s tanners, and today it’s a lively hub of shops, restaurants, and cafes. I couldn’t resist taking photos at every turn!
A Masterpiece of Art: Albrecht Dürer House
Step back in time and visit the former home of the renowned Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. Explore his studio, see his personal belongings, and learn about his life and work.
Cultural Treasures: Germanisches Nationalmuseum
Discover a vast collection of art, artifacts, and cultural treasures at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of Germany’s most prestigious museums. From medieval paintings to contemporary art, there’s something for everyone!
Other Must-See Attractions:
- Handwerkhof Nürnberg: A charming shopping arcade with unique local crafts.
- Museum Bridge: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this pedestrian bridge.
- Tiergärtnertor: A historic gate leading to the city walls, offering a glimpse into Nuremberg’s past.
- Hangman’s Bridge: This historic bridge, named after its use during the Middle Ages, offers stunning views of the Pegnitz River.
- Nuremberg Trials Memorial Center and Congress Hall: Scroll down for more details
A Walk Along the City Walls
One of the best ways to experience Nuremberg is to walk along its historic city walls. The views are amazing, and you get a real sense of the city’s history and architecture.
A City Steeped in History:
Nuremberg’s history is as rich as its architecture. It’s a city that’s seen it all—from the glory days of the Holy Roman Empire to the dark shadows of the Nazi regime.
Back in the day, Nuremberg was a major player in the Holy Roman Empire and a bustling center of trade. Its central location and importance in German history made it the perfect spot for the infamous Nazi Party rallies. These rallies were held annually from 1933 to 1938, spreading Nazi propaganda throughout Germany.
Remember those Nuremberg Laws? They were enacted here in 1935, stripping Jewish and non-Aryan citizens of their rights. And let’s not forget the Nazi-era buildings that still stand as stark reminders of a dark time in history.
During World War II, Nuremberg served as the headquarters of a military district and a crucial site for military production. Its history is a complex tapestry, woven with threads of both triumph and tragedy.
A Shadow of the Past: The Nuremberg Trials Memorial Center and Congress Hall
After World War II, Nuremberg became the site of the historic Nuremberg Trials, where Nazi war criminals were brought to justice. Today, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial Center stands as a poignant reminder of this dark chapter in history.
Though the main memorial was under construction during my visit, the temporary exhibit was still a powerful experience.
One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the Kongresshalle, a massive colosseum designed as the centerpiece of the Nazi party rally grounds. Although only partially finished, Kongresshalle still dominates the city with its sheer size. With a diameter of 240 meters and a height of 39 meters, it’s the largest remaining building of the Third Reich.
Nuremberg: A Foodie’s Paradise
As a huge foodie, I was in heaven in Nuremberg! The city’s culinary scene is a delicious adventure waiting to be explored.
Nuremberg Sausages: A Must-Try
Nuremberg is famous for its delicious sausages, called “Bratwürste.” These small, grilled sausages are typically served with sauerkraut and a pretzel. I tried them at every opportunity and was never disappointed!
Pairing Sausages with Local Beer
No visit to Nuremberg is complete without trying a local beer. Tucher and Tucher Kristall are popular choices. The city has a vibrant beer culture, and there are plenty of breweries and beer gardens to explore.
A Culinary Adventure in St. Lorenz Church Square
For a truly authentic Nuremberg experience, head to St. Lorenz Church Square. This charming square is packed with restaurants and beer gardens serving up traditional Bavarian cuisine. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Bratwurst Röslein: This popular spot specializes in Nuremberg sausages and other Bavarian dishes.
- Weisser Turm: Enjoy panoramic city views while savoring delicious food at this historic tower restaurant.
- Bratwurstglöcklein: This traditional restaurant offers cozy vibes and amazing sausages.
- Ratskeller: Located in the City Hall basement, this restaurant serves up delicious Bavarian food and a wide selection of beers.
Whether you’re a bratwurst connoisseur or a beer enthusiast, Nuremberg’s culinary scene will satisfy your cravings. So, dig in and enjoy the local flavors!
Where to Stay in Nuremberg:
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Best Western Hotel Nuernberg Am Hauptbahnhof
I stayed at the Best Western Hotel Nuernberg Am Hauptbahnhof, and I couldn’t have been happier with my choice. This comfortable hotel is conveniently located just steps away from the main train station and the bus station, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.
A Must-Visit Destination
Nuremberg is a hidden gem in Bavaria, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. With its charming atmosphere, stunning architecture, and delicious food, Nuremberg is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Germany.
So, what are you waiting for? Add Nuremberg to your travel bucket list and get ready to experience the magic of this Bavarian city. And don’t forget to check out my other Germany travel blogs for more inspiration!
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