This post was originally published on A Globe Well Travelled in 2014. The content has been revised and updated with fresh information.
During a chilly yet clear-skied winter visit to Nuremberg, I discovered a rather intriguing destination.
Just shedding a recent snowfall as we arrived, the melting snow on the rooftops formed drips of water that fell onto the streets below. Midwinter temperatures were chilly enough to scare off the majority of tourists, which meant we had the Nuremberg attractions nearly all to ourselves.
While my husband was interested in finding out about the city’s modern history from WWII, I was more into walking along cobblestone alleys while admiring the colourful wood-panelled buildings that were scattered throughout the old town. I felt like a time traveller who’d gone back to see what a medieval town looked like a few hundred years ago.
Nuremberg seemed like a destination worthy of being added to any traveller’s Germany itinerary. Featuring an impressive hilltop castle as well as a handful of fascinating museums, it has all the charm and character that you’d expect from a central European city. If you’ll be visiting soon, here are the best Nuremberg activities!
Quick summary:
From medieval castles to powerful WWII history and fascinating museums, this post shares the top 10 attractions you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Nuremberg.
Recommended tours & tickets:
👣 Nuremberg Tunnels and Secret Passages Tour – Explore the castle and underground history.
🚶♀️ Nuremberg Old Town walking tour – Discover the city’s medieval streets and market squares.
🏟️ Nazi Rally Grounds walking tour – Learn about Nuremberg’s WWII history with a guide.
🎫 Nuremberg CityCard – Includes entry to top museums + free public transport for 48 hours.
Where to stay in Nuremberg
🛏️ We chose to stay at the Five Reasons Hotel & Hostel Nuremberg which turned out to be a great option for budget travellers.
This hotel/hostel had a range of accommodation options from dorm beds to private apartments, and is was located just a short walk from the hauptbahnhof (Nuremberg’s central train station). I’d definitely recommend it for any visitors to the city who want good value for money, and want the conveniences of being near to everything.
Best things to do in Nuremberg:
Nuremberg Castle (Kaiserburg)
Nuremberg Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Perched atop a sandstone ridge overlooking the city, this location was one of the most important medieval imperial palaces of the Holy Roman Empire and dates back nearly 1000 years.
Visitors can explore the castle grounds for free, or tour the medieval buildings through a museum showcasing the history of Nuremberg.
👣 One really awesome way to explore the castle would be on a Nuremberg Tunnels and Secret Passages Walking Tour. Following the footsteps of medieval knights through the old city walls looks like so much fun!
Nuremberg Old Town (Altstadt)
Nuremberg’s Old Town, or Altstadt, is a charming area brimming with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and lively market squares surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval architecture.
🚶♀️ Do a Nuremberg Old Town walking tour to discover the history of the town centre, including the iconic Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square) with its bustling market stalls and the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain).
Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt)
If you’re visiting Nuremberg in December, you’ll be lucky enought to experience the magic of one of Germany’s most famous Christmas markets held annually in the old town. The market features festive decorations, traditional handicrafts, and delicious seasonal treats.
My visit was in January so unfortunately I just missed out on seeing them, but if they are anything like the other Christmas markets in Germany, I’m sure they’re amazing!
Nazi Rally Grounds & Documentation Center
The Nazi Rally Grounds absolutely must be added to your Nuremberg itinerary. An on-site museum (Documentation Center) is located in the old Congress Hall building. Exhibits feature detailed accounts of the rallies, as well as some history of the Nazi Party and national socialism in Germany.
🏟️ If you’re interested in knowing more about this site, it may be a good idea to book a Nazi Rally Ground walking tour as your guide will be able to give you a detailed explanation of what the site was used for as you wander around.
You are able to explore the grounds on your own. I found it to be a bizarre feeling to stand on the podium of the Zeppelinfeld Grandstand, looking out over the field where 100,000 dedicated party members once cheered their leader.
St. Lorenz Church
The Gothic architecture of St. Lorenz Church makes it one of the most stunning things to see in Nuremberg. The interior of this building features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodcarvings, and a magnificent organ.
Nuremberg Trials Memoriam:
If you’re into WWII history, you can visit the historic courtroom where the Nuremberg Trials took place. The Memoriam Nuremberg Trials museum provides a sobering look at this pivotal moment in history.
🎫 Entry to this museum is included on the Nuremberg CityCard, which gives visitors access to Nuremberg’s most popular museums over 48 hours, plus free public transport within the city.
Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady)
This iconic church is a symbol of Nuremberg’s rich religious heritage and architectural splendor. Dating back to the 14th century, Frauenkirche is renowned for its Gothic architecture. Step inside to admire the awe-inspiring interior, featuring beautiful stained glass windows, ornate altars, and a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection and contemplation.
Nuremberg Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)
One of the more fun Nuremberg activities is to delve into the world of toys at this fascinating museum, which showcases the history of toy manufacturing in Nuremberg. Highlights include vintage dolls, model trains, and interactive exhibits. Entry to this museum is included on the Nuremberg CityCard.
Albrecht Dürer’s House (Albrecht-Dürer-Haus)
The former home of the renowned artist Albrecht Dürer is now a museum, which offers insight into Dürer’s life and work. Insode you’ll find exhibits showcasing his paintings, prints, and tools of the trade. Entry to Albrecht Dürer House is included on the Nuremberg CityCard.
Hangman’s Bridge (Henkersteg)
Walk across this historic pedestrian bridge spanning the Pegnitz River, which offers picturesque views of the old town and surrounding architecture. The bridge is adorned with colorful love locks and provides a unique vantage point for photography.
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