visit munich or nuremberg

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Nuremberg vs. Munich for Attractions, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Food

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Nuremberg or Munich?
• Which is Cheaper, Nuremberg or Munich? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Munich?

• When to Visit Nuremberg or Munich?

Should you visit Nuremberg or Munich?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nuremberg and Munich can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nuremberg is a charming, beautiful, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nuremberg and Munich: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Scenic old town
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Impressive beauty
• Good music scene
• Big city activities

Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Munich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich than Nuremberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Munich is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nuremberg is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nuremberg is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Nuremberg different from Munich?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Munich and Nuremberg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nuremberg or Munich?

Nuremberg is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Nuremberg on the map. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Is the Food Better in Nuremberg or Munich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Munich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Munich is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Munich just to party. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Many people head to Nuremberg for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Music?

Munich is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Nuremberg is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Nuremberg is not a live music destination.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nuremberg can be explored in its historical center. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or Munich?

Munich is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Families?

Both Nuremberg and Munich are high quality to visit with kids.

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Munich. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Couples?

Both Nuremberg and Munich are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Nuremberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Nuremberg. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Students?

Munich is a world-class destination for students. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Munich is a very popular city for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Many students visit Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Is Nuremberg or Munich Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Munich is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Munich can get you around easily. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Nuremberg offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Is Nuremberg or Munich a more walkable city?

Nuremberg and Munich both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Nuremberg is a very walkable city. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Nuremberg Worth Visiting? and Is Munich Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Munich or Nuremberg?

How long in nuremberg or munich.

In either Nuremberg or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Nuremberg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nuremberg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

Families should spend more time in Nuremberg than Munich. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nuremberg, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Munich than Nuremberg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Munich that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Nuremberg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Munich.

• How many days in Nuremberg or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay Nuremberg 1-3   Munich   2-5

One day in Nuremberg or Munich?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nuremberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nuremberg or Munich?

Nuremberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nuremberg or Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Nuremberg or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Nuremberg. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Munich is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany , The Best Historical Tours in Germany , and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany .

Which place is cheaper, Munich or Nuremberg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Nuremberg Prices Germany Prices Munich Prices Germany Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Nuremberg € 103 Munich € 148

The average daily cost (per person) in Nuremberg is €103, while the average daily cost in Munich is €148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nuremberg and Munich in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Nuremberg € 61 Munich € 89
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Nuremberg € 122 Munich € 178

Compare Hotels in Nuremberg and Munich

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg or Munich? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nuremberg

Hotels in Munich

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Nuremberg € 12 Munich € 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

• Airport Transfer in or to Nuremberg: $94
• Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $254
• Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $271
• Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $241
• Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $77
• Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $194
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $218
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Berlin with 2h of Sightseeing: $280
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $271
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich, Door-to-Door: $218
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $260
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $245

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:

• Single Zone Trip on Subway € 2.30
• Inner District Subway Day Pass € 5.20
• City transport day ticket € 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

• First Class Transfer in Munich Airport MUC: $200
• Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Business Car: $163
• Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Luxury Car: $254
• Arrival Transfer from Munich Airport to Munich City by Sedan: $94
• Departure Private Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Business Car: $163
• From Munich Airport to Nuremberg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $196
• Guided Nymphenburg Palace Tour with Transfers & skip the line.: $239
• Munich Airport (MUC) to Arber Resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
• Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Arrival Private Transfer: $32
• Munich Airport MUC to Arber Round Trip Private Transfer: $178
• Munich Airport MUC to Garmisch-Partenkirchen- Round-Trip Transfer: $144
• Munich Airport Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Business Car: $163

Is it cheaper to fly into Nuremberg or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich and Nuremberg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Nuremberg € 34 Munich € 27

Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:

• Bratwurst € 5.00
• Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich) € 1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Munich.

• Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $139
• Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $143
• Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $213
• Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Nuremberg € 10 Munich € 29

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

Here are a few actual costs in Nuremberg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.32
• Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.98
• Medieval Darkness Quest Experience: $5.74
• Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $8.99
• City tour through Nuremberg with the little train - Christmas tour: $11
• Fürth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
• Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
• City tour through Nuremberg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
• Nuremberg Old Town Walking Tour in English : $15
• Nuremberg Third Reich Tour in Spanish: $19
• Medieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish: $19
• Camp Zeppelin Tour in Spanish: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:

• Schack Gallery Entrance € 4.00
• Munich Zoo Entrance € 9.00
• Pub Crawl Munich Tour € 14
• Neuschwanstein Castle (2) € 24

Tours and Activities in Munich

Here are a few actual costs in Munich for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Munich Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.66
• Save Your Friend Quest Experience in Munich: $7.98
• German Wine Self-Guided Tour in Munich's Old Town Wine Bars: $11
• Munich Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
• The Munich old town tour: $13
• Origins of Nazism Walking Tour in Munich: $19
• Munich Old Town Walking Tour: $22
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tour CitySightseeing Munich: $24
• SEA LIFE Munich Admission Ticket: $24
• Munich City Hop-on Hop-off Tour: $27
• Munich Evening Bike Tour: $28
• Third Reich Walking Tour: Historic Facts and Sites in Munich: $30
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Nuremberg € 16 Munich € 37

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:

• Hofbrauhaus € 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

• Beer and Brewery Tour in Munich: $48

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nuremberg and Munich, we can see that Munich is more expensive. And not only is Nuremberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nuremberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nuremberg and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich than you might in Nuremberg.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nuremberg Expensive? and Is Munich Expensive? .

Munich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nuremberg. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg and Munich, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Nuremberg or Munich?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Nuremberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nuremberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nuremberg is around the same temperature as Munich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nuremberg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Munich averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nuremberg. Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Munich during summer. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Munich. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Nuremberg 20°C (68°F)   Munich   20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Nuremberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In October, Nuremberg is generally around the same temperature as Munich. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 12°C (53°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Nuremberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Munich. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Nuremberg 12°C (53°F)   Munich   11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and Munich. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. It's quite cold in Nuremberg in the winter. Nuremberg is much warmer than Munich in the winter. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Munich. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Nuremberg 1°C (34°F)   Munich   -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as Munich. Many travelers come to Nuremberg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Nuremberg is cooler than Munich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nuremberg in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Nuremberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Munich. Nuremberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Nuremberg 10°C (50°F)   Munich   11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Munich and Nuremberg

Related articles for nuremberg, related articles for munich.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Perfect Munich to Nuremberg Day Trip Itinerary

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Nuremberg is a medieval city located in Bavaria in Germany. It is super easy to take a day trip to Nuremberg from Munich. Nuremberg is known for its medieval architecture like the Altstadt (Old Town), Kaiserburg Castle, the Hauptmarkt (central market-square), the Frauenkirche (Gothic church) and the Pegnitz River-canal (Fleisch Bridge). Other then the beautiful buildings, Nuremberg is famous for its Christmas markets (in Hauptmarkt). Read to find all about our Munich to Nuremberg Day trip itinerary . 

Nuremberg is the English name for Nürnberg – the second largest city in Bavaria state of Germany. 

READ: Our 5 days in Munich Itinerary

Munich to Nuremberg Day Trip Itinerary – Perfect Day trip to Nuremberg

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Munich to Nuremberg Day trip 

The journey from Munich to Nuremberg is 2 hours long via road. Trains are very frequent in the Munich – Nuremberg and back route.

Trains – It takes 1 to 1.25 hours to reach Nuremberg from Munich via the fastest train. You can start the day trip to Nuremberg as early as 04:00 am and then leave the medieval city at 08:00 pm to return to Munich. Train fares start at $25 USD+ one way. 

Tour Guide – You can take a tour to Nuremberg from Munich by train. Guided train tours start at $65 USD+

BOOK HERE > Day trip to Nuremberg by train

Bus tours are also a great way to explore the medieval city of Nuremberg. You will be taken to Nuremberg in a bus, a walking tour of the old town is included with ample free time to explore and eat your heart out. And then depart in the evening. Guided tours start at $75 USD+

CHECK THIS TOUR HERE > Day tour to Nuremberg from Munich. 

Nuremberg is known for its mighty imperial castle, stunning old city walls, the canals as well as half timbered houses that still depicts a life that’s living under the spell of the medieval imperial grandeur.

Altstadt – Historic Old Town of Nuremberg 

If you are like me, you will definitely like to walk around with fresh coffee and flowers in hand, in this beautiful town. The charming old town is covered in cobbled stone lanes and has a very romantic vibe in the air. 

The old town is very pedestrian friendly, and you can start your sightseeing (or meet the guided tour ) from the main train station. Walk along the street – Koenigstrasse and you will end up at the Imperial Castle. 

Before reaching the castle, you will see many important attractions on the way. 

Frauentorturm or the Women’s Tower

As soon as you get off the train, you will find the walled city and the gate to the Old Town located opposite to the Main Railway Station. You will also see the Frauentorturm from a distance. There is a walkway that leads to the Frauentorturm – where you will find shops and restaurants.

Pegnitz River from Fleisch Bridge 

As soon you reach closer to old town Nuremberg, you will be greeted by the Fleish Bridge.

The  Fleisch Bridge  is a late Renaissance bridge that crosses the river Pegnitz in the center of the old town, linking the districts St. Sebald and St. Lorenz along the main market. The single-arch bridge was built in the 16th century. From the Fleisch bridge you can start exploring the city. There are small markets located parallel to this bridge.

Mauthalle  – former customs house 

As you walk towards the heart of old town, you will see an old customs house – Mauthalle and many open air markets along the way.

The Church of our Lady – The Frauenkirche 

Located at the helm of the Nuremberg market square is the Church of our Lady. This church is SOO stunning and beautiful to look it. 

The  Frauenkirche (“Church of Our Lady”) is a Gothic church situated on the eastern side of the central market-square. The church has a mechanical clock (the Männleinlaufen)  that commemorates the Golden Bull of 1356. The church’s balcony is used for the opening ceremony of the Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market).

If you are visiting Nuremberg during Christmas season, then I am SOOO jealous. I heard the market square is decorated beautifully for the holiday season and the Nuremberg Christmas markets are the BEST in Europe! 

Visiting Nuremberg during the Christmas season? Check out this tour  

The Hauptmarkt – Nürnberg Central Market Square 

The Hauptmarkt is the central market-square. Flowers, food stalls, hand-made items are sold in the market area. Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market) is located here and it draws a lot of tourists for its Christmas ornaments and delicacies.

Schöner Brunnen

Schöner Brunnen is the beautiful Gothic fountain in the central square in Nuremberg. It was built in the 14th century and the 40 colorful figures that adorn the fountain represent the world view of the Holy Roman Empire. The beautiful fountain in the market-square is a replica that was placed here in the early 20th century.

It is very beautiful to look at.

Food and Drink – Culinary and Brewery Tours in Old Town Nuremberg 

After some sightseeing, definitely make a stop at one of the cafes or food stalls to try some Nürnberger bratwurst or sausage – they are fried and deliciously good (but loaded with calories. Well everyday is a cheat day when you are on vacation!)

Nuremberg is also known for its traditional cuisines, so if you LOVE food, then definitely take a culinary tour for 90 minutes. You will discover the savory side of old town in this tour! BOOK 1.5 Hour culinary tour here 

You might also like this brewery tour which includes sightseeing highlights like the Albrecht Dürer’s House, the Imperial Castle, and the main market square > 2 hour brewery tour visiting 2 breweries and beer samples 

Nuremberg Toy Museum 

The Nuremberg Toy Museum, as the name suggests is a toy museum. It highlights the 600 years of doll-making history. And that’s why its considered to be one of the most well known toy museums in the world. Definitely a must visit, if you love toys and if you have enough time on your hand!

City Hall of Nuremberg – Nürnberg Rathaus 

Admire the City Hall of Nuremberg as you take a stroll on the cobblestone lanes. This building was destroyed due to bombing in the Second World War.

The Nuremberg Rathaus or the town hall was rebuilt  in the late 1950s and is now a beautiful evocation of the German Renaissance. Inside the city-hall are offices, a restaurant and dungeons which are open to visitors. It is a popular photo spot and is definitely worth seeing.

Nuremberg Castle or Kaiserburg Castle 

The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg  consists of fortified buildings that comprises of the historical center of Nuremberg. The castle and its fortifications are one of Europe’s most formidable medieval fortifications, depicting the power and importance of the Holy Roman Empire.

The Kaiserburg Castle was built in the 11th century, and had been home to every Holy Roman Emperor for the next 500 years.  The castle was built on a large sandstone rock and was completely destroyed after the World War II bombings and was later re-built back to its medieval charm. The castle complex consists of a deep well, imperial chambers, a double chapel and the Sinwell Tower which was built in the late 13th century and served as a defensive fort. 

The castle was an important seat of the Empire’s administrative functions.  Many trade and commerce related decrees were passed here. Both the courts and the Imperial Diet or the Reichstag met at the Nuremberg Castle. 

You can easily spend 2- 3 hours here at the castle grounds including taking a stroll at their beautiful gardens. 

House of Painter Albrecht Dürer

Nuremberg is also home to Germany’s most famous painter, Albrecht Dürer. He worked and lived in Nuremberg for almost twenty years. In the old town Nuremberg you can visit his house – the artist’s only house dating back to the 16th century.  This house is located just a few steps away from the Imperial Castle. 

In the tour mentioned above , you will be taken to the Imperial Castle as well as given a tour of Dürer’s house. The five-story house serves as a museum and is dedicated to Dürer’s life and work.  In this informative tour, you will also learn about how Nuremberg was, in the 15th – 16th centuries. 

Other then being a charming medieval town, Nuremberg also has a dark phase of history. Nuremberg saw the rise and fall of the Nazis. The Nazi party conducted many rallies in the southeast part of Nuremberg. There is also a memorial – Memorium Nürnberger Trials – an exhibition about the post-WWII Nuremberg trials of Nazi war criminals.

Memorium Nürnberger Trials and the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds 

Nuremberg saw the Nazi brutality and also saw its end and recovery process with the Nuremberg trials. All the pages of dark history are located in about 11 square kilometres in the southeast of Nuremberg, and this is where 6 Nazi party rallies were held between 1933 and 1938.

Kongresshalle  – Congress Hall 

The  Congress Hall (Kongresshalle) is a historic landmark and it was initially built to serve as a congress centre for the Nazis with seating arrangements for 50,000 members. The building was inspired by the Colosseum in Rome. Although the foundation stone was laid in 1935, the building was never completed. Today it houses the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, with the permanent exhibition Faszination und Gewalt (Fascination and Terror). 

The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds  (Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände) was a Third Reich Meeting place, and today it is a museum. Through its exhibitions (most notable one – Fascination and Terror), it showcases the dark period of Germany’s history and also sheds valuable light on the Nuremberg Trials that took place here after the Second World War. 

Nuremberg’s Palace of Justice is where the 1945 Nürnberg trials were held. 

Former Nazi Rally Grounds is a huge stadium where Hitler’s Nazi Party held 6 – six important rallies. 

A former World War 2 Art Bunker is also located here, which is now an art gallery.

Accommodation – Hotels in Nuremberg

Our trip to Nuremberg was for a day, so we didn’t stay in any hotel. Should you decide to extend your trip and stay overnight, then we have a few recommendations for you. The hotels listed below are based on traveler reviews and our own research. We recommend using  HotelsCombined.com   to find accommodation. It is our favorite hotels website for quickly comparing the prices of multiple hotel booking sites at once.

Average hotel rooms will cost you about $100-150 USD for mid range accommodation in Nuremberg. 

• Elegant interiors, upscale vibes
• Hotel has gym and restaurant on site
• Free breakfast and parking
• Located near Nuremberg Castle, railway station
• BOOK YOUR STAY HERE
• Another elegant 3 star hotel
• Great location, quick access to the railway station
• Restaurant, gym and hot tub on site
• BOOK YOUR STAY HERE  
• Budget hotel in a central location. Close to sightseeing spots
• Clean hotel
• Pet friendly

Quick Travel Tips for Nuremberg 

• Nearest Airport : Munich Airport OR Flughafen München (MUC)
• 2 hours by road from Munich, to reach Nuremberg
• There are a lot of tour operators that provide day trips to Nuremberg from Munich. Check tours in Nuremberg 
• Day trips from Nuremberg – Regensburg – a renowned UNESCO world heritage site is located about 1.50 hours away and has similar Middle Ages charm to it. Many travelers have great reviews about visiting Regensburg – well, we have this on our list for next time. 
• Currency: Euros
• Must Visit/ Visit Recommendation : Christmas Markets (in December), City-Hall, Imperial Castle, Fleisch Bridge

Nuremberg is a great option for a quick day trip from Munich. The city has a very Gothic-medieval feel to it. Its tourist friendly and there are lots of sight-seeing options to keep you hooked.

Additional Germany Travel Resources

• Things to do in Munich in a day
• Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
• Dachau Concentration Camp Tour 

Last Update: July 24 2019

Pin This for Later – Munich to Nuremberg Day Trip Itinerary

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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I’ve not yet been to Nuremburg, but I like the look of it. The market square is a great attraction and meeting place too. I also like your photos. They capture the place well.

Thanks so much! Glad you like the post!

the architecture of this place looks beautiful. I’ve always wanted to go to some of the smaller German towns

You should add this to your list, you will love it!

One of the things I love about Germany is the gothic architecture all over the country but especially down in Bavaria, I’ve been to Munich before but not had the chance to visit Nuremberg as yet. Old town looks especially incredible to wonder around with a coffee in hand, I know I wouldn’t be able to stop taking pics here.

Definitely add Nuremberg on your next trip to Germany. It can be covered in a day from Munich

Beautiful highlights! I’ve been to Nürnberg once and it is a city with a nice old charm. I really enjoyed my time there as you. Thanks for sharing 🙂

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One Epic Day in Nuremberg: How to Day Trip to Nuremberg from Munich

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Bavaria is full of amazing cities, and Nuremberg is no exception.

Come explore medieval castles and Gothic churches, with World War II history around every corner.

Eat your weight in gingerbread and/or sausages.

Tour a famous Renaissance artist’s home or just walk around the Altstadt admiring half-timbered homes and river views.

An easy day trip from Munich, spending one day in Nuremberg should be on your Germany bucket list!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Nuremberg, Germany? Bavaria’s Historical Jewel

Germany has A LOT of fairytale, picturesque, and historic cities. So, what makes Nuremberg special?

The city is saturated with history.

Nuremberg has been an important trade and cultural center since the Middle Ages. The Holy Roman Emperor had a palace here dating back as far as the year 1050, and thousands of people still visit the Imperial Castle today.

Famous artist Albrecht D ürer called Nuremberg home in the early 1500s. His home and workshop are a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Beautiful cathedrals surround city squares where local farmers’ markets flourish, or Christmas markets when the season’s right.

Nuremberg hosted the Nazi Party Rallies in the 1930’s. The dilapidated remains of the buildings and grounds now house Nuremberg’s Documentation Center , to teach and warn about the power of propaganda.

At the end of World War II, the Nuremberg Trials were held at the city’s Palace of Justice. Visit the memorial to a small piece of justice won.

Don’t care about history? How about food?

Nuremberg sausages are small, key-hole-sized sausages, dating back to the Middle Ages so people could sneak food through key holes to people in prison or people locked outside the city walls.

They’ll serve it to you on a plate nowadays, with delicious German potato salad or traditional sauerkraut.

Nuremberg’s gingerbread , or lebkuchen, is world-renown and not to be missed. Bakeries carry it year-round, and it’ll be piled high at stalls in the famous Nuremberg Christmas market .

Traveling with kids?

The DB Museum of Transport has trainloads of fun for the family, and the Toy Museum is another popular stop for little ones.

Getting to Nuremberg from Munich

The most popular way to visit Nuremberg is as a day trip from Munich . It’s quick and easy, an hour by train, and is the perfect addition to any Munich itinerary.

First step: grab a Deutsche Bahn (DB) Bayern train ticket. These are easy to purchase each day from a kiosk at any DB station.

These regional train tickets are good for up to 5 people in your party and are by far the cheapest way to get around southern Germany . The only catch is they can’t be used between 6AM-9AM on weekdays (morning rush hour).

Check the schedule the night before. Bayern ticket in hand, with names written on the ticket ( yes, they check ), hop the first train that leaves from Munich’s Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) in the morning.

Be aware that the last train back to Munich at the end of the day will be packed with day trippers like you trying to get back to Munich for dinner.

Arrive at the train station 20 minutes or more before the last train is due to arrive.

Walk as far down the platform as you can. There is less competition for seats; although there will still be plenty of people waiting for that last train back.

How to Get Around Nuremberg

Nuremberg is very walkable , and the Bayern ticket also covers the buses, trams, S-bahn, and U-bahn in Nuremberg. That Bayern ticket is a real money saver!

Pro Tip: The Hauptbahnhof will have free public transport maps. Grab one before you head out! They can be lifesavers when you get lost.

Walking through the AltStadt (Old Town) is the best way to see Nuremberg.

Highly recommend saving Nuremberg maps offline and following the walking directions.

See German half-timbered houses, amazing cathedrals and fountains, the river bridges over the Pegnitz River, and the Hauptmarkt before arriving at the Kaiserburg on the north side of the city center. That walk only takes 20 minutes, if you don’t stop for pictures.

To walk to the Kaiserburg from the Hauptbahnhof:

• Cross the street from the Hauptbahnhof, walking north toward the very large walls and stone tower.
• Once there, take Konigstrasse north until you hit the river.
• Museumsbrücke crosses the river. Look right to see the Holy Spirit Hospital, partially founded on an island in the middle of the river. Look left to see the Fleischbrücke, a medieval stone arch bridge. Continue north into the Hauptmarkt square.
• Walk diagonally left across the square, towards the Schoner Brunnen fountain, to Hauptmarkt (the street on the other side of the square). Continue north.
• The road changes names to Rathauspl. and then slightly veers left and changes to Burgstrasse. You’ll be able to see the castle by now. Continue up the hill for amazing views and to tour the castle.

This walking route can also be done in reverse, if you’d rather take public transport up to the castle and leisurely walk back to the train station. This walking route covers 75% of the main tourist sites in Nuremberg.

For attractions further out of the city center, like the Nazi Party Rally Grounds Documentation Center and the Nuremberg Trials Memorial Museum at the Palace of Justice, take public transport like a tram or bus.

Possible public transport options are noted below for each site in its description.

What to See in One Day in Nuremberg: Suggested Itinerary

1. start at the kaiserburg / imperial castle of nuremberg.

A medieval palace complex dating back to the times of the Holy Roman Empire, the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg should be at the top of your must-see list for Nuremberg.

Known as the Kaiserburg in German, this castle complex has housed Holy Roman Emperors and the kings of Bavaria, and was even a place of interest to the Third Reich for its German historical nature.

Tours begin with the original Palas and Double Chapel , first built on the ruins of another building on this rocky outcropping in the year 1200. Walk through medieval halls and see how Holy Roman Emperors lived . The double chapel is a two-story chapel, so the emperor didn’t have to worship with the commoners below.

Next, continue through to The Bower . This building was nearly completely destroyed and then reconstructed after WWII and now houses a fascinating display on medieval weaponry and the castle’s military history.

The Kaiserburg’s Deep Well Tour is a crowd favorite in an unassuming building in the center courtyard. Tours are only available in German, but the demonstration of the well is interesting nonetheless. What good is a castle without its own protected water source?

This well is, as its name gives away, pretty deep. At 50m (164ft) deep, it’s an impressive engineering feat for the time, considering this well was probably built in the 1200’s when the castle was first constructed.

Miraculously, the tallest point of the castle complex, the Sinwell Tower , wasn’t damaged during the WWII bombings. You can climb this tower and be treated to unparalleled views over the city, with photographs from before and after the war to compare to today’s view.

Complete your visit with a nice stroll through the gardens and grounds , open to the public regardless if you buy a ticket to go inside any of the other buildings.

Time Required for Visit

The Palas, Double Chapel, and Bower require 1.5-2 hours, especially if you take the audio guide.

The Deep Well is a separate guided tour option and takes about 45 minutes.

The Sinwell Tower depends on your fitness level climbing the tower and how long you stay up top admiring the views. Say 45 minutes to an hour to be safe.

Total time if you do everything: +/- 4 hours

Minimum time to make it worth your while: 2 hours + a stroll through the gardens on the way out

Getting Here

Walking from the Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) is our recommendation.

Alternatively, take public transport. There aren’t a lot of options inside the city walls, so you’ll have to take a combination of routes to get close, and then walk the rest of the way to the castle.

Take the U-bahn (lines U1, U2, or U3) to Plarrer station, just two stations west from the Hauptbahnhof. Exit the subway and walk up to street level.

Hop on Tram 4 going north. Ride north for 3 stops and disembark at Tiergartnertor. Follow the path up to the old walls and gate, following signs for Albrecht Durer House.

Once you’re through the walls, turn left, away from the Durer House, and follow the streets up to the Kaiserburg. You can’t miss it.

2. Photo Op with the Schöner Brunnen / Beautiful Fountain

This fountain lives up to its name: it’s a beautiful fountain in the corner of the city’s main square (the Hauptmarkt). A great photo op in this square full of photo ops!

It looks like a Gothic church spire was plucked off the top of the nearby Frauenkirche (church) and plopped on the ground, which makes sense as the original fountain was built in the 1300’s around the same time as the church.

The current fountain is a beautifully restored ornate replica that’s been on this spot for about a century. Find the golden ring in the grille around the fountain and turn it for good luck!

As little as 5 minutes to walk by and take a picture.

Walking around the Hauptmarkt is a must-do, but Bus 36 also stops at Nuremberg Hauptmarkt, right across the street from the fountain.

3. Walk through a Beautiful Cathedral

The churches are all free to enter when services are not in session. Even if you’re not religious, these old cathedrals are worth a tour.

Take a minute to appreciate the time and effort that went into building these magnificent edifices without power tools or machines. The details are all handmade!

The Lorenzkirche (St Laurence Lutheran Church) is closest to the central train station and also has its own stop on the U-bahn U1 line. A Gothic beauty!

The Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady Catholic Church) anchors one side of the Hauptmarkt , Nuremberg’s most popular square. Another Gothic marvel to wander through.

The Sebalduskirche (St Sebald’s Lutheran Church) is just a block away from the Hauptmarkt. This awesome cathedral was severely damaged during WWII but has been fully restored. The before and after pictures will blow you away.

As much or as little time as you want. It’s always worth popping in for 10 minutes in between visiting other sites. All the cathedrals are close to other historical sites.

All on the way to other locations if you walk through town.

Lorenzkirche, as noted, is also on the U1 subway line.

Frauenkirche is on the Hauptmarkt Square. Bus 36 drops off across the square at Nuremberg Hauptmarkt stop or Buses 37, 46, & 47 all stop at the Holy Spirit Hospital (Heilig-Geist-Spital) stop, about a block south of the church.

Sebalduskirche is also easily accessible from the Hauptmarkt, just one block north, so take Bus 36 to the Nuremberg Hauptmarkt stop and walk north from there.

4. Enjoy the Pegnitz River and its many Bridges

The Pegnitz River bisects the old walled city of Nuremberg. Some of the bridges that cross it are as old as the city gets, dating back to the Middle Ages.

The Fleischbr ücke is the oldest stone arch bridge in Nuremberg.

Museumsbr ücke is almost as old as the Fleischbrücke and has a great view of the Holy Spirit Hospital which spans over the river and into an island in the middle of the river.

A quick stop on your way to other sites, 10 minutes max.

Walking is your best bet. Both are less than a block south of the Hauptmarkt, if you prefer to take a bus to the Hauptmarkt first.

5. See Half-Timbered Houses in All Their Glory

Known as the prettiest street in Nuremberg, Wei ßgerbergasse is a beautiful spot for rows of colorful medieval half-timbered houses.

Just a residential street with a few shops here and there, it’s really just a photo op or pleasant views while on a stroll.

A quick stroll through on your way to other sites, 10 minutes max.

About a block west of Sebalduskirche, easy to get to on foot from the Hauptmarkt.

Via public transport: Bus 36 or Tram 4 or 6 to the Hallertor station, on the west side of the city just north of the river.

6. Visit the Documentation Center at the former Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Throughout Germany you’ll find “Documentation Centers.” These buildings serve the dual purposes of remembering and teaching about the horrors of the National Socialists Party (the Nazis) and the atrocities that happened during World War II.

Nuremberg’s Documentation Center focuses on the power of propaganda and how the Nazi Rallies of the 1930’s reinforced their agenda.

The museum is housed in the unfinished Nazi Congress Hall. It’s a shell of the building it was meant to be, and it’s a haunting reminder of the power of words.

This was one of the most compelling and moving documentation centers that we’ve visited so far. The propaganda machine behind Hitler and the Nazi Party was a fearsome thing to contend with, using fear to fully brainwash an entire population. It’s unnerving and terrifying.

The documentation center sees 3 times as many visitors as it was originally designed for, so an expansion project began in 2021 . An interim exhibit is in place for visitors, and exhibit plaques have been scattered throughout the grounds as well.

Walk around the lake to the Zeppelin Field in what’s a peaceful park today, but also see the Steintribüne (Stone Grandstand) where Hitler once stood and spoke. It’s eerie when you recognize it that way.

For more information about construction progress, the interim exhibit, and hours & fees, check the website before you go.

To see the interim exhibit at the Documentation Center, it takes about an hour. A stroll around the Zeppelin Field to read its exhibit plaques is about 1.5 hours; the zeppelin field is a very large space.

Is this Site OK for Kids?

The museum is not recommended for children under 14 due to the mature content.

The grounds and zeppelin field are big and flat, and little kids can run around to get out some energy while you read the exhibit plaques.

This museum is well outside of the city center, but definitely worth the trip! Trams 6 & 8 and Buses 45, 55, 65, & 96 all stop right by the entrance (or they did before construction).

The S-bahn S2 line Dutzendteich station is just down the street. The entrance is under the bridge.

Pro Tip : Shouldn’t have to say it, but I’m gonna anyway – don’t be the idiot tourist that gives a Nazi salute on this grandstand, or anywhere in this park, or anywhere in Germany, for that matter. It’s actually illegal , and there’s a good chance if a park officer catches you doing it, they’ll arrest you or at least heavily fine you and yell at you. DON’T BE STUPID.

7. Nuremberg Trials Memorial at the Palace of Justice

Another important World War II historical site: the courtroom where the Nazis were put on trial after the war.

The Nuremberg Trials were originally held by the International Military Tribunal and saw the Nazis held accountable for their actions.

The memorial museum above the Palace of Justice (their courthouse) gives detailed information about the monumental task of preparing for and holding the trials.

Courtroom 600 , where the trials were held, was a working courtroom up until March 2020. It used to be hit or miss if the courtroom was being used and unavailable during your visit. Now, there’s a good chance the courtroom will be open for tours.

Guided tours are not currently held in English, but the exhibits have English translations. Check the website for further information.

An hour to read all the exhibits in the museum and take a peek inside the courtroom.

Not recommended for children under 14, but there are no age restrictions. Little kids will get bored; tweens may not quite be ready for the mature content. Use your parental judgement.

Not in the city center. Take the U-bahn U1 line to the Bärenschanze station. The Palace of Justice is a two-block walk to the west.

Is One Day in Nuremberg Enough?

Not really , but you can see A LOT in one day. The above Nuremberg itinerary is a very full day! Swap out one or two of the historical sites for a more kid-friendly site or reduce the amount of time spent at the Kaiserburg to give yourself more time for lunch.

You’ll need it as German restaurants are much slower about bringing the check. (A common difference between American and European eating etiquette.)

Hit the highlights and you’ll be satisfied with your day trip to Nuremberg. But if you have more time…

Two to three days is ideal for a less rushed Nuremberg experience. There is plenty more to see in Nuremberg!

Other Things to Do in Nuremberg with More Time

Albrecht dürer house.

This one’s for all the artists out there! Albrecht Dürer is a famous Renaissance artist that lived and worked in Nuremberg in the 1500’s. He is known for his paintings but also his prints.

A printing press workshop is set up at the Albrecht Dürer House and holds demonstrations to see how mass production of art became a reality.

DB Transport Museum

A good option for kids and adults, the DB Museum of Transport is all about trains.

Two permanent exhibitions walk through the history of the railroad in Germany and the transformation of rail stations throughout the years. Both are fascinating and will entertain the whole family!

World War II Art Bunker

Nuremberg’s underground tunnels were transformed into secret bunkers during the war.

The Nazis stole famous artworks and artifacts from around Europe and shipped them to secret caches. Nuremberg’s tunnels were one such hiding place.

Luckily, the medieval underground tunnels were deep enough and sturdy enough to withstanding the bombings the city received, and the art remained safe.

Take a guided tour and learn about everything these tunnels safeguarded during the war.

A fun museum entirely about toys through the ages! It is interesting how games and toys reveal so much about a culture. The Toy Museum entry includes an audio guide with 2 hours’ worth of fun anecdotes.

Germanisches Nationalmuseum

A thorough history of Germany, from prehistoric times to today. The Germanisches Nationalmuseum has everything from paintings and prints to scientific and musical instruments.

Medieval weaponry, folk art, and even 1700’s Fashion all have their own exhibits. A perfect rainy day activity to get to know the German culture.

Nuremberg Christmas Market in Hauptmarkt

Europe’s Christmas markets are legendary, and Nuremberg is no exception!

Remember that lebkuchen (gingerbread) we talked about? Stalls are stacked high with it at Christmas! And don’t forget mulled mead, a staple of any Christmas market.

Get an adorable Christmas ornament souvenir, usually handmade, or just walk around enjoying the ambience. Europe knows how to do Christmas!

Medieval Dungeons

A brief guided tour of Nuremberg’s medieval dungeons paints a ghastly picture of what it was like to be jailed and questioned during the Middle Ages.

The tour includes 12 cells and a torture chamber.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Nuremberg?

The spring and summer are delightful. Summer sees a surge of tourists, but if you avoid German national holidays, it’s still pretty easy to get around.

Fall coincides with Oktoberfest, which is actually held in September. The beer fest tends to draw people away from sightseeing, so you may find yourself at less crowded sites.

Winter is cold and snowy, but the Christmas market is worth it.

How to Save Money in Nuremberg

A few ways to save some money on your day in Nuremberg. A bit of planning will ensure these are worth it. Beware of purchasing a pass and not using it enough to justify its cost.

1. Bayern ticket

We’ve already talked about this above. The Bavaria regional train ticket is the cheapest and easiest way to get around Bavaria , basically covering all transport for the day.

2. Nuremberg Municipal Museums Day Pass or Annual Season Ticket

The Nuremberg Municipal Museum sites include the Documentation Center, Nuremberg Trials Memorial, Albrecht Dürer’s House, Medieval Dungeons, World War II Art Bunker tour, and the Toy Museum, among others. For the complete list, see the website.

The Day Pass

All of the covered attractions are normally €6 base entry for adults. If you add a €3 upcharge and convert to a day pass, you get free entry to the other sites for that day only.

However, the day pass doesn’t cover special guided tours, like the Medieval Dungeons, the WWII Art Bunker tour, or the costumed guided tours with Agnes Dürer at the Dürer House or Katharina Tucher at the Tucher Mansion.

This may not be a problem though. For example, you can still get into the Albrecht Dürer House and tour it on your own with the included audio guide.

As of December 2021, the only English-speaking costumed guided tour with Agnes is on Saturdays at 2PM. If you’re not visiting on Saturday, you’re not missing out on anything. If you want to do the tour with Agnes, it’s only €3 more, and the pass will still pay for itself if you go to a 3 rd site.

The Annual Season Ticket

A season ticket, however, covers everything for an entire year. A single Annual Season Ticket covers one named adult for €28. It will have your name on it , so you can’t trade off with your spouse or friend.

An Annual Season Ticket XL costs €42 and covers one named adult, one accompanying adult, and any of your own children.

This pass is worth it if you visit 5 or more of the Nuremberg Municipal Museums, whether that’s all in one day or over two or three days.

3. Bavarian Palace Association 14 Day Pass

For this pass to save you money, make a plan to use it. It’s not cost effective if you only use it in Nuremberg at the Kaiserburg, but it is if you’re day tripping from Munich .

Several spots in Munich are included in the pass , as well as several other Bavarian palaces around the region. Herrenchiemsee , Linderhof , and Neuschwanstein are all included.

The pass will pay for itself if you visit both the Kaiserburg in Nuremberg and the Munich Residence complex . Everything else is just a bonus after that.

4. Nürnberg Card

Free admission to all Nuremberg museums and free travel on public transportation with the Nürnberg Card .

This card has a catch : you have to stay at one of the official hotel partners in Nuremberg. So, it’s not applicable to day trippers , but could be very useful for those that have 2 consecutive days to spend in Nuremberg.

Visiting 4 or more museums pays for the card. It includes museums from both the Bavarian Palace Administration and the Nuremberg Municipal Museums, so you don’t have to buy individual passes at each site.

Purchase the card online ahead of your trip and it will be mailed to your home. Don’t forget to bring it with you! Alternatively, purchase at the Tourist Information Center in Nuremberg, or possibly your hotel’s front desk.

Enjoy your day in Nuremberg!

Whether you hit the highlights in one day trip to Nuremberg from Munich or you stay in town for a few days to see it all, Nuremberg is sure to be a highlight of your vacation!

Some more relevant resources for planning your Germany vacation:

• Epic Europe Summer Trip: 4 Countries in 12 Days
• Popular Day Trips from Munich
• Day Trip to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial
• One Day in Berchtesgaden
• Explore Salzburg in One Day

Happy travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 38 US states and 17 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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19 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Nuremberg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The historic medieval city of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is one of Germany's most important centers for arts and culture, and one of the country's most popular tourist destinations .

The second-largest city in the beautiful state of Bavaria , Nuremberg has long been associated with advances in science and technology, particularly in printing. Home to Europe's first printing press and a center for the study of astronomy, these and other important technological advances are today celebrated in the city's world-class museums and attractions.

Despite having been severely damaged in WW2, many of the medieval buildings in the Old Town (Altstadt) have been painstakingly restored to their former glory. In fact, most of the top attractions in Nuremberg are located within the city's historic city walls, which extend some five kilometers around the Old Town, making it extremely fun to explore on foot.

An easy day trip away from Munich , if you can, you may want to plan your visit to coincide with one of Nuremberg's many festivals. Two favorites are the famous two-week-long Old Town Festival musical and folk event, and International Organ Week , which runs from late June to mid-July.

To learn more about these and many other fun places to visit in a city, be sure to read through our comprehensive list of the top attractions and things to do in Nuremberg.

See also: Where to Stay in Nuremberg

1. Take a Walking Tour of Nuremberg Castle

2. get your bearings at the hauptmarkt, 3. walk nuremburg's historic city walls, 4. learn your history at the germanic national museum, 5. take a tour of the nuremberg transport museum, 6. marvel at the architecture of st. lawrence's church (st. lorenz), 7. frauenkirche: the church of our lady, 8. visit st. sebaldus church, 9. meet the artist: albrecht dürer's house, 10. documentation center nazi party rally grounds, 11. explore königstrasse and the st. lawrence side, 12. for the kids: the toy museum, 13. go wild at nuremberg zoo, 14. neues museum nürnberg, 15. city museum at fembo house, 16. museum of industrial culture, 17. have some fun at playmobil funpark, 18. schloss neunhof, 19. take a drive to erlangen schloss, where to stay in nuremberg for sightseeing.

Dominating the skyline of the northwestern section of the Old Town (Altstadt) rises the cluster of historic structures that together comprise Nuremberg Castle.

The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg (Nürnberger Burg), is an impressive 351-meter-tall fortification that dominates the Old Town's skyline. One of the most important surviving medieval fortresses in all of Europe, it was once the residence of all legitimate German kings and emperors from 1050 to 1571.

A great way to get the most out of a castle visit is to join a fun walking tour of Nuremberg Old Town . These informative two-hour English-language tours also take in other important landmarks along the way such as the city walls, the famous Hauptmarkt, the historic Albrecht Dürer House, and St. Lawrence Church.

At the lower end of the castle are the imperial stables built in 1495 (now a youth hostel), and the Pentagonal Tower, dating from 1040. Higher up is the Kaiserburg, built in the 11th century although much altered in later centuries, along with the Sinwell Tower with its wonderful panoramic views. Be sure to spend time exploring the Palas quarters with its unique double chapel, both of which date from the early 13th century.

English-language audio tours are also available for a small fee and are well worth it for those not participating in an organized tour. Many surviving artifacts from the castle's long history can be viewed in the Imperial Castle Museum, the Bower. Here, you'll find an impressive collection of medieval weapons and suits of armor, along with saddles and harnesses.

Another of the castle's top must-sees is the famous Deep Well . Located in the attractive old two-story Well House built in 1563, this even older manmade structure plummets to a depth of 50 meters, and can only be visited with a tour guide available every half hour. Be sure to also explore the impressive Castle Gardens . An attractive place for a stroll, it can trace its roots all the way back to 1525.

Address: Burg 17, 90403 Nürnberg

Read More: Top-Rated Castles in Germany

After your walking tour of Nuremberg Castle, spend time exploring the city's Hauptmarkt, or "Main Market." Regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in Germany , it has for centuries been the scene of a daily market, the Wochenmarkt, a tradition that continues to this day. It's also here that you'll find St. Giles' Church , the city's only Baroque church.

The traditional city center, the Hauptmarkt is home to the aptly named 14th-century "Beautiful Fountain." With its ornate decorations and figures, it makes for a picture-perfect selfie location. While you're there, be sure to touch the fountain's famous gold ring for a spot of good luck.

The Hauptmarkt is also where you'll find the Old Town Hall (Nurnberger Rathaus), along with its much newer 20th-century counterpart. Built in 1616, the original municipal offices are notable for their magnificent doorways, dungeons, and torture chamber.

Between these two buildings is another famous fountain, the Gänsemännchen. Built in 1555, it depicts a Franconian peasant carrying two geese with water flowing from their beaks.

If you are planning on visiting in December , you're in luck. It's in the Hauptmarkt that Nuremberg's famous Christmas Market (Nürnberg Christkindlesmarkt) is held.

One of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe , this two-week extravaganza is attended by more than a million visitors every year, and sees the marketplace transformed by festivities and lighting. It's also a shopper's paradise. As well as stands selling ornaments, Christmas foods, and gifts, exploring its many stalls at night is a particularly fun thing to do.

Another great way to get your bearings is to book a fun city tour of Nuremberg aboard the "Bimmelbahn ." This railway-themed people-mover starts in the Hauptmarkt, taking in such sites as St. Lorenz church and the Kaiserburg during its 40-minute orientation. Along the way, your professional guide provides fascinating commentary on the history of landmarks that you can then visit later at your own pace.

Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

Nuremberg has the unique distinction of having preserved most of its circuit of old city walls, many sections of which date from the 14th to 15th centuries, and later strengthened in the 16th and 17th centuries.

In fact, one of the best places to visit in Nuremberg for those wanting to find their way about this fascinating medieval city is to walk the nearly five kilometers of paths that follow the walls, leading you to numerous gates and towers, many of which can be explored.

The finest stretch of walls is located on the west side of the Old Town, between the massive Spittlertor and the historic Maxtor. For the best views of the walls, the Old Town, and the Burg, make your way to the impressive Fürther Tor, the medieval gateway located in the southwestern corner of the city.

For a completely different tourist attraction, be sure to visit the nearby Medieval Dungeons . Known as Lochgefängnisse, this old prison features 12 prison cells and a torture chamber. English-language guided tours are available.

Address: Rathauspl. 2, 90403 Nürnberg

The Germanic National Museum (Germanisches Nationalmuseum) is home to the country's largest collection related to German art and culture. The museum has more than 1.3 million items relating to the region's artistic and cultural history, including historical documents on parchment, a collection of 17,000 seals, and a superb fine arts archive.

Other notable highlights include a collection of 300,000 prints, drawings, and paintings representing all the major schools of art. There's also an impressive collection of historical musical instruments, a sculpture collection, and a fascinating display of antique toys and dollhouses.

Part of the fun of exploring this vast museum is taking in its many unique architectural features as it incorporates an interesting mix of historic and modern buildings, including parts of a 16th-century charter house and a former abbey. Guided tours are available, and a gift shop and café are located on-site.

This museum is also worth visiting as it's located on Kartäusergasse. Here you'll find The Way of Human Rights (Straße der Menschenrechte), a street-long monument dedicated to world peace. Another notable art-related attraction is Kunsthalle Nürnberg , a popular gallery that features exhibits of work by contemporary international artists.

Address: Kartäusergasse 1, D-90402 Nürnberg

Just outside the old town walls is the superb Nuremberg Transport Museum (Verkehrsmuseum Nürnberg). Consisting of a number of museums, including one dedicated to Deutsche Bahn, the country's railway, known as the DB Museum; and the Museum of Communications. It's a wonderful attraction to explore with kids due to its many displays relating to the country's railroads.

Highlights include numerous scale models, including a massive model railway that's been built up for over 100 years, as well as a variety of fun interactive displays. One of the oldest such museums in Europe, it can trace its roots back to 1899 and boasts a rich collection that also includes royal trains and perfectly restored steam and diesel engines. There's even a working replica of Germany's very first train.

The museum also offers a varied program of tourist and charter trips on mainline rails, so be sure to check for such opportunities prior to your visit. And for a truly memorable oracle experience, check the availability of one of the excellent tourist charter trains, which run regularly.

Another transportation-related museum to check out is the Merks Motor Museum . This fun attraction houses a fine collection of some 90 vintage cars.

Address: Lessingstraße 6, 90443 Nürnberg

Overlooking Lorenzer Platz, the spectacular twin-towered 14th-century Gothic church of St. Lawrence (St. Lorenz, or Lorenzkirche) is the city's largest church. One of its many notable features is a large rose window, nine meters in diameter, situated above the beautiful west doorway.

Inside, its many lavish works of art, most of them provided by the city's richer classes over the centuries, include the Annunciation by sculptor Veit Stoss from 1517 in the choir. Other highlights include its late 15th-century tabernacle; the crucifix on the high altar; the Krell Altar, with the oldest surviving representation of the town; and the superb stained-glass in the choir dating from 1477.

Other notable features include a unique three-part organ boasting over 12,000 pipes, which is said to be one of the largest such instruments in the world, and a set of 16 bells, the oldest of which dates back to the 1300s. Nearby highlights include the Fountain of Virtue from 1589 and the 13th-century tower-like Nassauer Haus .

Address: Lorenzer Pl. 1, 90402 Nürnberg

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, as the building's stunning façade is rich with detail.

For example, above the porch with its rich sculptural decoration is the Männleinlaufen, a beautiful old clock that was installed in 1506 with mechanical figures representing the seven Electors pacing around Emperor Charles IV. It performs daily at noon.

Notable features of the interior, which was designed with attendance by the Emperor in mind, are the Tucher Altar from 1440 and two handsome monuments by Adam Kraft. Visitors are welcome to attend daily mass here, too. In the pedestrian-friendly Jakobsplatz is another interesting old Roman Catholic edifice, the domed St. Elizabeth's Church built between 1785 and 1806.

Address: Hauptmarkt 14, 90403 Nürnberg

Protestant St. Sebaldus Church (Sebalduskirche), built from 1225-73, boasts a magnificent Gothic east choir dating from 1379 featuring the Schreyer-Landauer tomb, the work of Adam Kraft. Inside, on a pillar in the north aisle, is the Madonna in an Aureole dating from 1420, while in the east choir is the famous tomb of St. Sebaldus from 1508, a masterpiece in bronze by Peter Vischer and his sons.

A silver sarcophagus from 1397 contains the saint's remains, and Vischer himself is depicted with his leather apron and chisel. Other church highlights include a Crucifixion group by Veit Stoss dating from 1507 and a huge organ with 6,000 pipes.

A great experience if you're able to squeeze it into your Nuremberg itinerary is to participate in 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.

Another protestant church of note is the 14th-century St. James's Church (Jakobskirche) in the Jakobsplatz pedestrian area.

Address: Winklerstraße 26, 90403 Nürnberg

Just a stone's throw from Nuremberg Castle is the 15th-century Albrecht Dürer's House (Albrecht-Dürer-Haus). It was here the famous German Renaissance artist lived from 1509 until his death in 1528. This five-story house itself dates back to 1420 and now serves as a museum, founded in 1871 and dedicated to Dürer's life and work. He's especially famous for his printed maps.

In addition to its many fine displays of some of his best-known creations, the museum houses displays of authentic period furniture and a reproduction of Dürer's studio workshop, where demonstrations of traditional printing can be enjoyed. Also of interest is the kitchen with its original fireplace plus living quarters, which can be viewed. Guided tours are available.

Also of note is the nearby Tiergärtner Tor , a perfectly preserved little medieval square. Another famous old home is the late 16th-century Fembohaus , the town's best preserved old merchant's house now occupied by the Heimatmuseum with its domestic interiors and displays relating to the town's history.

Address: Albrecht-Dürer-Straße 39, 90403 Nürnberg

The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds (Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände) is one of Germany's most important museums, dedicated to the bleakest chapters in the country's history. Located in a wing of the Congress Hall where Nazi Party rallies were held, its most notable exhibit is called Fascination and Terror and deals with many facets of the Nazi regime's brutal time in power.

Covering an area of 1,300 square meters, it deals specifically with the impact of the regime on Nuremberg, as the Congress Hall was part of a vast 11-square-kilometer site. It was also here that the Nuremberg Trials that took place after the war.

Guided tours are available in English with advance notice, and English-language audio tours and video displays are provided. You can also pick up details of a self-guided tour of the complete rally grounds.

Another point of interest related to this dark period of German history is Memorium Nuremberg Trials . This fascinating exhibition concerns the war trials that took place here after WW2, and it's located above the actual court used at the time.

If you're on a tight schedule, consider joining an organized walking tour of the Nuremberg Nazi Rally Sites that also takes in the best of the top Old Town (Altstadt) attractions. In addition to learning the remarkable history of this medieval city, both ancient and modern, you'll see points of interest such as the Imperial Castle courtyards, Albrecht Dürer's house, and St. Lawrence Church during this informative four-hour tour.

Address: Bayernstraße 110, 90478 Nuremberg

Nuremberg's St. Lawrence Side, or Lorenzer Seite, is named after its principal church, St. Lorenz, and lies in the section of the Old Town (Altstadt) that's located on the south bank of the river Pegnitz.

One of the busiest parts of the city, it's worth exploring for its famous Frauentorturm and Handwerkerhof Alt Nürnberg districts, two small enclaves of wonderful, old half-timbered houses renowned for their traditional craft workshops.

From Bahnhofsplatz , the busy Königstrasse runs northwest into the old town of Nuremberg. Highlights of this historic old street include the 14th-century St. Martha's Church (Marthakirche) with its fine stained glass.

Nuremberg's excellent Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum), widely regarded as the leading museum of its kind in the world, is a fun attraction for kids of all ages, as well as adults. It's located in a historic old home dating from 1517. Highlights of a visit include fascinating details of the cultural significance of the many unique toys on display from different countries and periods.

Many of the older toys, some of which date back to medieval times, were made in the town, which was famous for centuries for its doll makers. Also of note is the world's largest collection of toys made by EP Lehmann, one of the country's best-known toy manufacturers, famous for their line of model trains, some of which can be seen traveling along the museum's large model railroad layout.

The Toy Museum is also home to the German Games Archive, a vast collection of board games and other related materials. On-site amenities include a well-stocked toy store, an outdoor play area including a labyrinth, plus an indoor play and craft area.

For those with an interest in the stars, a visit to the Nicolai Copernicus Planetarium is another fun thing to do with the kids.

Address: Karlstrasse 13-15, D-90403 Nuremberg

Traveling to Nuremburg with kids? Then you'll want to pay a visit to the Nuremberg Zoo (Tiergarten Nürnberg). Home to more than 2,000 animals from some 300 or so different species, this world-class attraction was opened in 1912 but can trace its roots back to medieval times, when exotic animals from around the world were kept for entertainment by local aristocracy.

Covering an area of 170 acres, it's one of the largest and oldest zoos in Europe and boasts numerous displays of animals, including Siberian tigers, Asiatic lions, snow leopards, lowland gorillas, and African buffalo. It's certainly a fun attraction to stroll around, due largely to the care and attention paid to the enclosures, which are spacious and reflect natural habitats and landscapes.

As well as the lush greenery, there are also many life-size bronze animal sculptures sprinkled throughout the facility. Other notable features include a popular dolphin lagoon with regular shows. If possible, try to plan your visit to coincide with the chance to see animals being fed. English-language guided tours are also available.

Address: Am Tiergarten 30, 90480 Nürnberg

For art lovers, the excellent Neues Museum Nürnberg is a must-visit for its large and impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Located in a very stylish modern building, this world-class museum opened in 2000 and is in fact something of a work of art itself, boasting bright open spaces, clean lines, and interesting architectural features such as its exquisite spiral staircase.

The artwork covers the period from 1950 to today, with notable exhibits of applied art and fine art often displayed side by side to add a unique perspective to the experience. Numerous temporary exhibits are hosted throughout the year featuring works by both local and international artists.

A variety of educational opportunities are also on offer, including workshops and lectures, as well as events such as music concerts and performances. Guided tours are also available and can be customized to suit your interests.

Address: Luitpoldstraße 5, 90402 Nürnberg

After spending time exploring beautiful Nuremberg, or possibly even before you venture too far, you'll no doubt want to know more about the city's rise to prominence over the years and how it came to be home to so many important historic attractions. If so, be sure to make time for a visit to the superb City Museum at Fembo House (Stadtmuseum im Fembo-Haus).

Situated in the city's last remaining Late Renaissance merchant house, this museum provides an in-depth look at life in Nuremberg and its residents over the centuries. Highlights include a chance to see a variety of original rooms, from medieval times to the 18th century, complete with authentic furnishings and artwork, as well as one of the finest surviving stucco ceilings in Germany.

Also of note is the excellent wooden scale model of Nuremberg's Old Town (Altstadt), and a recreation of a traditional map printing workshop. Be sure to tune into the well-produced and informative "audio plays" put together by the museum, which use real-life experiences of city folk through the years to paint a fascinating aural picture of Nuremberg's rich history.

Address: Burgstraße 15, 90403 Nürnberg

Located just steps away from the German National Museum is the Museum of Industrial Culture (Gewerbemuseum). Focusing on the city's industrial past and housed in a former 19th-century ironworks, this museum takes a unique look at how the various industries based here through the centuries impacted Nuremberg culturally and socially.

Highlights of this large facility are displays of old machinery and manufactured goods, including domestic appliances and vehicles, along with a cinema.

The same building also houses the Motorcycle Museum , which celebrates an industry that started in Nuremberg in 1901. A particular focus is placed on the local Zündapp brand, which came to prominence in the 1920s with one of the first affordable models on the market. Other highlights include displays of historic racing bikes and customized machines.

Address: Äußere Sulzbacher Str. 62, 90491 Nürnberg

There are plenty of fun attractions suitable for kids within a short drive of Nuremberg. One of the most popular is Playmobil FunPark . Tucked away in the town of Zirndorf, an easy drive west of Nuremberg, this indoor/outdoor theme park is suitable for ages three and up.

Highlights include full-size (kid-size!) replicas of the toy company's many famous play characters and accessories, from a giant pirate ship to a large castle, that can be explored. Other notable features include an American Indian village, a Wild West themed area, a farm, a gold mine, and even a dinosaur display.

Many of the exhibits are there to be played with and climbed over, such as the ropes course, a labyrinth, and powered paddleboats, which really add to the enjoyment factor. Numerous seasonal events and mini-festivals are held here, too, so be sure to check the site's website for details.

And after all that fun playing, head over to Kristall Palm Beach waterpark in nearby Stein, a popular spot for its many swimming pools and slides. Facilities for parents include spas and hot tubs.

Address: Brandstätterstraße 2-10, 90513 Zirndorf

Located just nine kilometers north of Nuremberg, Schloss Neunhof is a lovely old fortified manor house that was first mentioned in historical documents in 1246. One of the best-preserved mansions of the Nuremberg patricians, it is one of 60 such structures dotted around the city as a defensive line.

This well-preserved building boasts a moat and drawbridge, lovely decorated interiors, as well as a splendid garden. Remodeled 50 years ago and based on drawings from the 1600s, it's a delight to explore; take your time, and pack a picnic.

Other notable highlights include its original gate, a variety of outbuildings including stables and gardens, and two kitchens. A later addition worth popping into is the 18th-century chapel.

Address: Neunhofer Schloßplatz 2, Nürnberg

The small Baroque town of Erlangen lies a few kilometers north of Nuremberg and is famous for its university.

Its most notable building is Erlangen Schloss, built in 1704 and occupied since 1825 by the Friedrich Alexander University. To the rear of the building is the Schlossgarten, a delightful formal garden designed partly in French and partly in English styles, with its lovely yet curious Huguenot Fountain, and the beautiful Orangery dating from 1706.

On the north side of the gardens are the Botanic Garden and the Margravial Theater, as well the University Library. Here you'll find valuable manuscripts and works of graphic art, including self-portraits by Dürer and Grünewald.

Address: Postfach 3520, D-91023 Erlangen

If you're visiting Nuremberg for the first time and want to see the main sights, the best place to stay is in the Old Town (Altstadt), which lies within the old city walls. From here, you can easily walk to many of the city's top attractions, including the Hauptmarkt, the National Germanic Museum, and Nuremberg Castle. Here are some highly-rated hotels in this central and convenient location:

Luxury Hotels:

• Within the old town walls, near the main train station, the historic Hotel Victoria and the charming boutique Hotel Drei Raben are both steps away from the Hauptmarkt. In the latter hotel, each room is uniquely themed with a story that celebrates the city's heritage.
• If you prefer big hotels, the Sheraton Carlton Hotel Nuernberg is outside the walls of the Old Town but still within walking distance of the historic attractions and the main train station.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In a fantastic location right on the Hauptmarkt, Sorat Hotel Saxx Nurnberg accommodates guests in cozy, contemporary rooms; it's a five-minute stroll to shops and restaurants and less than 10 minutes on foot to Nuremberg Castle.
• Another great-value boutique option is the Art Business Hotel Nichtraucherhotel, with bold, modern art and contemporary spaces, just outside the old town walls near the main train station.
• With a fitness center and a free hot breakfast, Hampton by Hilton Nuremberg City Centre is also outside the city walls, but still within walking distance of the Old Town's top attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• On a quiet side street within the old town walls, the family-owned PrivatHotel Probst offers clean, bright rooms with comfy beds and a wonderful cooked breakfast.
• A hop, skip, and a jump away, the Ibis Nuernberg Altstadt offers clean basic rooms in the heart of the Old Town, while the B&B Hotel Nuremberg-Hbf is less than 15 minutes on foot from the Hauptmarkt and a short stroll from the main train station.

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Go West : From Nuremberg, point your car northwest (or jump on a train) and you'll find yourself headed in an almost straight line to three equally interesting cities: Würzburg, Frankfurt, and Bonn.

The attractions of Würzburg are an easy hour's drive away in the Main valley and include elegant old architecture including the Würzburg Residenz, pleasant gardens (the Hofgarten), as well as a splendid cathedral.

Frankfurt , for its part, is a must-visit for its beautiful old city center, the Römerberg, one of the most picturesque such settings in all of Germany for its old timber-framed buildings overlooking wide public squares with their pleasing monuments and fountains.

Bonn , too, boasts an equally charming historic ambience, in particular around its old cathedral and nearby market square.

Germany's Big Cities : Thanks to its high-speed rail network and fast autobahns, Germany is an extremely easy country to get around. Use one of these methods to visit some of the country's largest cities, including Berlin, the capital , where you'll be inundated with opportunities to be entertained while enjoying cultural activities, including visits to some of the world's leading art galleries and museums , as well as having the chance to see what's left of the infamous Berlin Wall. Hamburg is Germany's second-biggest city, and is a popular destination for its magnificent port area, as well as the great family attraction, Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway. The city of Munich , the country's third-largest municipality in terms of population, is of course famous for its cathedral and churches, its many palaces, as well as its gardens, all of which are pleasant to explore.

More on Germany

11 Perfect Things to do in Nuremberg when Planning your Nuremberg Itinerary

By: Author Corinne Vail

Posted on Published: 3 June 19  - Last updated: 9 January 24

Home » DIY Travel » Germany » 11 Perfect Things to do in Nuremberg when Planning your Nuremberg Itinerary

Is Nuremberg on your German Itinerary? It should be and here’s why. We’ve created this list of amazing things to do in Nuremberg so you can make sure not to miss its great castle, WWII history, and fantastic restaurants.

Nuremberg is one of those magnetic cities that draws you back over and over again. Maybe it’s because we only lived about an hour from there, but we feel it’s a perfect example of a German city with lots of history, some good, some not so good, and plenty of fun things to do.

It’s a place to go and enjoy Bavarian food at some of the oldest, most revered restaurants. And it’s got one heck of a special Christmas market, one of Bavaria’s top 5 , for sure. We would go into Nuremberg for movies, performances, festivals, and of course, the world famous Nuremberg Christmas Market.

In this article, you’ll learn about:

• When is the Best Time to Visit
• How Many Days is enough?
• Nuremberg Visitor’s Map
• Fun Things to Do
• N uremberg Festivals
• Nuremberg Itinerary – One or Two Days
• Three Days or More

Best Restaurants in Nuremberg

How to get to nuremberg.

When is the Best Time to Visit Nuremberg?

Located in the German state of Bavaria, Nuremberg is quite temperate all year round. Summer temperatures only soar above 75 degrees a few days of the year and winter temperatures rarely go below 30 degrees.

However, as you can see it rains frequently. Summer and, of course, Christmas time are the two high tourist seasons. Early summer and fall are the prettiest times of the year with flowers or fall foliage in abundance. Or, you could always stop by in May if you plan to spend spring in Germany .

Fall brings lots of festivals, which also makes it a lot of fun. Winter, though, can feel very cold. This is fantastic for sipping that warm gluhwein at the world-famous Christmas market. If you do come to Germany in winter, don’t miss it.

All combined, you should really visit Nuremberg whenever you are in Germany. Seasonality really doesn’t matter. There’s always something fun going on.

How Many Days in Nuremberg?

How many days in Nuremberg do you need? Well, ideally, you should plan at least a 2 days in Nuremberg itinerary. In order to fully see the castle and old town area as well as the World War 2 and Nazi historical sites within the city.

If you have more time than that, you can venture a little further out. Below we’ve included Nuremberg itineraries and Nuremberg things to do for one day, two days, and three days or more.

Nuremberg Visitor’s Guide Map

Fun Nuremberg Things to Do

There are so many fun things to do in Nuremberg and the surrounding area.

• Nuremberg Castle

One of the most historically important castles in Germany, the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg , was owned by the Hohenstaufens who often hosted dignitaries from the Holy Roman Empire .

The city was located on a crossroads, and was often used as a stopping point for travelers, merchants, and armies. They needed a castle for protection and to impress visitors as a display of might and power.

Nuremberg continued as a center of power throughout history and served as the heart of Nazi Germany during World War Two. As a result, most of the castle and the city was destroyed during Allied bombings in World War II.

Throughout the center of the city, you can see turrets and castle walls, and nowadays roads and sidewalks take you all around and through the city walls and green spaces below them. You can wander the ramparts all day long, but to enter inside the main castle grounds, you need to find your way to the top of the hill.

As you walk through the gate and up the hill to the ticket office, you begin to feel what it was to live in something so charming. Like the many houses around it, the interior is filled with half-timbered buildings, with red shutters. The Sinwell Tower, really rises high from the rest of the grounds, and we couldn’t wait to climb it.

Entrance tickets for the exhibition, well, and tower can be purchased in the main building in the castle’s upper courtyard. The combination ticket costs about seven euros and covers all of the attractions in the castle. 

The exhibition climbs through the castle’s main building and is up and down many stairs to see the galleries on each level. There are various rooms that display everything from models and the history of the castle, the city , and its role in the Holy Roman Empire. It doesn’t take long to go through on your own–the complete audio guided tour is 90 minutes long.

So, if you’re not sure what to do in Nuremberg, be sure to add Nuremberg Castle to your 2 days in Nuremberg itinerary.

Power Tip: If one of your party has a hard time with stairs, the exhibition can be difficult. It does have plenty of comfortable benches to rest on. The best part would be for that person to wait outside and visit the well only.

We walked into a very small room with a well, and to be honest at first I thought, “what the **ell?” I paid extra for this? However, I was impressed with our ten minute presentation of how old the well was, how it was built, how it survived, what was found in the well, and more. It was a great, albeit short, presentation, but I’m certainly glad that I did it. I think children would love it also.

Sinwell Tower

As you might predict, there are plenty of steps to climb to reach the peak of the tower. The steps are a spiral staircase, made out of wood, and the steps are not too deep which make them easier to climb.

At the top, the 360 degree view is well worth the trip, and there are placards describing not only what you can see now, but how the view has changed from after the war when the majority of the city was leveled by the Allies.

Sinwell Tower Views

The best part about climbing the many wooden stairs to the top of the tower were the views from the top. Nuremberg old town was laid at our feet, and it was easy to see what a great strategic advantage the tower provided to its important inhabitants with views of the surrounding countryside reaching for miles and miles.

The tower dates back to the mid thirteenth century with a major rebuild in the 16th century done as part of a major renovation project to the whole castle. Surprisingly, Sinwell Tower was one of the few surviving buildings after bombing during World War Two.

In fact, the Sinwell tower houses a collection of fascinating photographs of the castle following that horrific destruction. Note:

Note : Unfortunately Sinwell Tower will be under re-construction for a couple of years. Go if you can.

Read our most popular articles on Germany! – Winter in Germany – Bavarian Christmas Markets ( + Itinerary) – Variations of Schnitzel – 5 Things You Didn’t Know about the Hofbrauhaus (Munich) – Fairytale Rothenburg and its Christmas Market

Nazi Rally Grounds, Nuremberg

For most of us, Nuremberg is best known for the Nuremberg Trials that took place there after World War II. As it had been the birthplace of national socialism in Germany, the city was chosen to hold these trials as a fitting location to completely dismantle the Nazi party , once and for all.

While it might seem like putting the Nazis on display in a museum might be a type of memorial, the opposite is true. The Nazi Documentation Center and Rally Grounds have been preserved to remind the world of how such a dictator could have clawed its way up to such power and through education, hopefully will ensure it won’t happen again.

The first time we tried to visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, we didn’t make it very far. There was a huge music festival taking place and the entire area was swarming with hundreds of thousands of music lovers and partiers.

While the sheer numbers may have been similar to a Nazi party rally, the message was one of peace and harmony not hatred and racism. We couldn’t even get close to the documentation center that day. On the next visit, the festival had been over for a few days, the cleanup and tear down was still in progress, but the center and most of the grounds were open again.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check on the website for closures to parts of the rally grounds. There are a few major festivals during the summer (June and July) that will see large crowds and areas closed. The Documentation Center will still be open, but it may be difficult to get to it.

Albrecht Dürer House

Perhaps Nuremberg’s most famous son, Albrecht Dürer rose to fame as an artist in the late-medieval period at the height of the German Renaissance. Somehow, his home and art studio have survived to this day despite the heavy bombing campaigns of WWII.

Whether you are into art or not, this is the absolute best place to get inside of one of these incredible half-timbered buildings and see what life was like during the middle ages.

My favorite part of the museum was watching the woodcut printing process from start to finish as well as being able to walk around the artist’s studio and learn about the different techniques and paints used during the time. A visit to the Albrecht Dürer house will take about 60 minutes. Watch your head as you walk around, there are low hanging ceilings.

Historical Art Bunker

Sometimes we find about things to do in a city after we’ve returned from a trip. You know how it goes, you’re back at work, telling your coworkers about your fantastic trip to Nuremberg, and they say, “Oh, I just love Nuremberg, did you go to the Art Bunker?” Well, that was the case here, and on every trip back to the city the bunkers were closed for one reason or another.

This remains the sight we couldn’t visit to this day. We will be rectifying this at some point in time. Meanwhile, they sound fascinating, and unless you suffer from severe claustrophobia, who doesn’t want to wander through old beer cellars, vaults, and passageways chiseled by hand out of the natural bedrock under a castle? This has to be on our Nuremberg Must See list.

The bunkers were set up to protect the city’s treasures and priceless artwork during World War Two in the old medieval tunnels and cellars under the castle. Visits are conducted through guided tours only (14:30 most days and English tours are only on Saturdays, but don’t let that stop you) and tickets can be purchased at the Albrecht Dürer House, Tourist Information Centers, or at the machine outside the bunkers.

Nuremberg Festivals

If you are not sure what to do in Nuremberg, then definitely check out some of the city’s amazing festivals. Because as they say in Germany, there are five seasons in every year–winter, spring, summer, fall, and festival season!

Nuremberg is no exception, and while it may not be as gigantic as Munich’s Oktoberfest , or as quirky as the  Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival , Nuremberg has its share of fun, food, and tasty treats.

Here are some of the major festivals in Nuremberg:

• Spring Festival in late April to Early May
• Franconian Beer Festival in June
• Rock Festival in July
• Wine Festival in July
• Autumn Fair at the end of August
• Burggraben Fest in the beginning of September
• Old Town Festival around the second weekend in September
• Christmas Market in late November on through to Christmas eve.

Whenever you’re planning to visit, there’s bound to be something going on!

Burggraben Fest (Castle Moat Festival)

Combining the food, drink, and music of a traditional beer fest with the pageantry, thrills, and adventure of a medieval renaissance fair is just sheer brilliance. Stage the whole thing in the moat of the Imperial Castle? Brilliant!

• Nuremberg Christmas Market

Winter is a spectacular time in Germany , and of course the biggest draws are the charming Christkindlmarkts or Christmas Markets. And the biggest and best of them all is Nuremberg! This is the city that really started it all, and that’s why we included it on our One Week Bavaria Christmas Markets Itinerary .

The Christmas market started sometime in the early 16th century, after Martin Luther introduced December 6th as a gift-giving day. It grew and grew, and today is one of the biggest markets in Germany. Needless to say, it can get a little crowded, but it’s well worth a stop.

One of the most interesting items to buy are prune dolls. Yes, dolls made from prunes and dressed as some type of worker, like a chimney sweep or kissing couples. They are supposed to bring good luck and the Nuremberg Christmas Market website tell us, “With a prune man in your house, money and happiness stay, too.”

Nuremberg Itinerary – One or Two Days in Nuremberg

Most Nuremberg visitors will only be spending one day or two days in Nuremberg in connection with a river cruise. If your time is limited, you’ll want to do some careful planning to get in all of the sights that are important to you. One way to get a good feel for the city and acquaint yourself with the lay of the land, is through a hop on hop off tour.

If you are into medieval art and architecture or World War II history, then you’ll have some choices to make if your time is limited. Stay for two or three days to have enough time for everything on the must see lists and consider adding another day or two if you’re coming during one of the major festivals.

Depending on your interests, these are some of the best things to do in Nürnberg:

• Nazi Rally Grounds
• Albrect Dürer House
• Saint Lorenz Church
• Saint Sebaldus Church
• Medieval Dungeons
• World War II Art Bunker
• Germanisches Nationalmuseum
• Nuremberg Zoo

One Day in Nuremberg – All the Must-See Places

If you only have time in your schedule for spending one day in Nuremberg, you are going to miss some key things unfortunately. But don’t despair, you can still have a wonderful time and get acquainted with this diverse city.

Day One – Morning  

Hopefully, you are staying close to the center where everything is right outside your door. Start out in the Market Square and wander around through the numerous stalls offering fresh produce and regional products.

You’ll also find some traditional handmade items here for gift giving to friends and family back home. Continue out of the Hauptmarkt towards the river and cross on the Museumsbrucke with views of the picturesque Fleischbrucke.

On this side of the river you’ll want to stop in at Kathe Wohlfahrt for a glimpse into what the Christmas Market might look like. This entire area is a pedestrian zone with beautiful buildings at every turn. You can just wander around following your curiosity but definitely don’t miss the  Saint Lorenz church where you’ll likely find more market stalls and street food stands.

Day One – Lunch 

If you haven’t had your fill of snacks and treats from food stands or tempting sidewalk cafes, we suggest you eat lunch at the original medieval restaurant Goldener Stern for the uniquely delicious Nurnberger Röstla. Be sure to pop into the kitchen to check it out. This place has been serving hungry diners for hundreds of years in this gorgeous medieval building.

Day One – Afternoon 

First thing, head up to the castle. It will take about two hours to see all there is to see, including the exhibitions, wandering around the gardens, a trip into the well house, and climbing the tower (if it’s open).

Afterwards, head back down the hill into the Old Town for a visit to the Albrecht Dürer house to see what life was like in Nuremberg near the end of the middle ages. Continue strolling along the cobbled streets under the beautiful half-timbered and stone buildings and make your way back to the Hauptmarket and the Rathaus.

Take the guided tour of the Medieval dungeons (hourly from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.). Next, it’s up the hill for the guided tour of the World War II Art Bunker to finish off your visit to the castle.

Day One – Evening

This is the time for festival going! If you’ve planned it right your in town for one of the big fests and will have the chance for partying with the locals at the beer fest in the castle moat, or sipping gluhwein or, my favorite, feuerzangenbowle during the Christmas Market.

If you weren’t so lucky, don’t despair, there are still plenty of options for a night out on the town. On a warm summer’s evening have a few beers with the locals in the beautiful beer garden at Hexenhausle (the Witches House), the food there is fantastic as well.

Or on a cold wintry night, stop in at the cozy  Zum Flößla with only a few tables and some of the best Franconian food in town, consider phoning ahead for a reservation.

Two Days – Weekend in Nuremberg

Two days in Nuremberg gives you the time to spend at one of the many festivals the city is famous for, or to visit some of the other important sights located outside of the old town. Start your trip out with day one above then wake the next morning to continue your visit.

Day Two – Morning

If your hotel’s breakfast isn’t up to par, make your way to the Hauptmnarkt and go upstairs to ALEX, Nuremberg for one of the best breakfast buffets in town (and the views can’t be beat, either).

Next, walk across the market square to Saint Sebaldus church for the 10:00 organ concert. You don’t have to be Lutheran to appreciate the mystical spells cast by the organ’s haunting melody.

Afterwards,  soak in some German art and culture at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum on the southern side of the old town. The impressive modern glass covered building houses the largest collection of art, historical artifacts an, cultural items from German speaking regions of Europe.

Like most large museums, it ‘s easy to lose an entire day here, but we recommend you spend your time in the Renaissance, Baroque and Enlightenment exhibit to see some more of Albrecht Durer’s works. From here make your along the impressive city walls towards the Spittlertorturm.

Day Two – Lunch

If you haven’t been to Zum Goldener Stern for their original wurst, that should be your first choice for lunch. Otherwise, if you’ve grown tired of wurst and schnitzel, Nuremberg is home to a large Turkish community with some excellent middle eastern restaurants. Quick, affordable, and super delicious, consider stopping in for a kebab at Mevlana just outside the Spittlertorturm.

Day Two – Afternoon

Jump on tram 6 at the Plärrer tram stop and ride it all the way out to the Nurnberg Doku-Zentrum stop. Visit the Documentation Center first, with its  chilling exhibit, Fascination and Terror, documenting the rise and fall of Nazi Nuremberg.

Afterwards, get out of the monstrous Congress hall and wander the Nazi Rally Grounds making your way to the Zeppelin field. If the weather is nice, consider renting a row boat, or a paddle boat and spend some time on the water at Dutzendeich.

Another option is to rent a bike at the kiosk just outside the documentation center and take a ride around the park.

Day Two – Evening

Make your way back to your hotel and the Old Town for dinner. We recommend dinner at Zum Spiessgeselle at the Rathaus. If you get there early enough they might still have some portions of Spannferkel (roast suckling pig), pair it with a thirst quenching naturtrubes kellerbier (unfiltered dark beer) served in an earthenware stein or one of the excellent Franconian white wines.

Finish off with a visit to the Fest or Christmas market. No festivals going on? No worries, check out the Sunday Night Orchestra playing in the Tafelhalle for some cool jazz and sweet sounds.

Three Days or More in Nuremberg

Three days in Nuremberg is just about the perfect amount of time. This lets you slow down a little, spend more time at some of the attractions without feeling rushed, explore some of the other interesting small museums or take in a performance at the State Theater .

Other options for families include the Nuremberg Zoo and Playmobil FunPark . Still looking for something fun and interesting? Why not take a how to make bratwurst class with an award-winning German butcher?

Additional Must Know Information For Nuremberg

Whether it’s what to eat, where to sleep, getting around, or any other practical information you’re looking for our helpful information will hopefully be just that, helpful! You can always drop us a line or ask a question in the comments if you don’t find what you are looking for.

Nuremberg has several great restaurants specializing in Franconian cuisine. This hearty and delicious food that will stick to your ribs. The best time for a good German meal is during the lunch hours when lunch menu specials will bring the cost down and the heavy meal won’t put you out for the night.

Zum Goldener Stern

At the self proclaimed oldest restaurant in Nuremberg, Zum Goldener Stern, the menu is all about the famous Nuremberg Rostbratwurst sausages. In fact the Goldener Stern has a pretty strong claim on being the oldest sausage restaurant in the world, and indeed this little stube has been selling theirs since 1640.

What is special about these sausages? Well, to begin with they are cooked on a beech wood fire, and if you are in the restaurant while they are grilling you might not be able to stop yourself from jumping the counter and gobbling them up before they are finished. The smell is so enticing!

According to tradition , Nuremberg  Rostbratwurst  sausages are so small so that after the closing of the city gates at night they could be fed through the key hole to those who had arrived back too late to get in! These wurst are small but they are served on a pewter plate in the following quantities 6,8,10, or 12 sausages (don’t even ask for a different quantity) and are usually accompanied by either a traditional German potato salad or barrel sauerkraut.

On every table you’ll find a mustard jar, but beware, traditionally you do not eat the sausages with mustard. Locals choose to eat it with fresh or creamy horseradish. You can usually order one portion, so look for it on the menu ( Meerrettich ). We were a little leary, but as you have probably guessed, the locals know best. It was delicious!

• Address: Zirkelschmiedsgasse 26, 90402 Nuremberg
• Phone: +49 911 20 59 288
• Website: bratwurstkueche.de
• Hours: Open daily from 11:00 until 22:00

Zum Flößla

Traditional homestyle German cooking is on the menu at this cozy little restaurant at the edge of the Old Town. Red and white gingham covers the tables and windows, antique kitchenware and old photographs adorn the walls and shelves, and the rich dark wood and rustic ceiling beams all work to make this one of the most gemütlich (comfortable and welcoming) restaurants in town.

It borders on kitschy but pulls off more of an Oma’s dining room feel.  And it’s just far enough away from the crowds that you will feel transported to a different world yet still close enough to be just a short walk to the center. You’ll find a constantly changing menu here depending on the season, but no matter what you’re sure to finding something on the menu although vegetarian options are limited.

• Address: Bergauerpl. 12, 90402 Nürnberg, Germany
• Phone: +49 911 227495
• Website: zumfloessla.de
• Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 16:30 till  22:30

Hexenhäusle

This is also one of our favorites. It’s a great place to go sit outside on a warm summer evening and enjoy a cool, refreshing fresh beer. The beer garden here is spacious and leafy green and sits in the castle moat just below the the castle itself. What a gorgeous view!

Hexenhäusle translates to small witch’s house and that is exactly what it claims to be. Long ago an old woman, healer, herbalist, medicine woman, witch, lived here just outside the castle walls. She was tolerated for her effective home remedies and left to live in peace. Today, the peaceful garden-like atmosphere still heals the exhausted traveler. Stop here to enjoy a drink under the leaves or order a delicious German meal and let yourself fall under the spell of the Hexenhäusle. Some vegetarian options available.

• Address: Hexenhäusle Vestnertorgraben 4, 90408 Nürnberg, Germany
• Phone: +49 911 49029095
• Website: hexenhaeusle-nuernberg.com

Other Notable Dining Choices

• Zum Spiessgesellen – Address: Rathauspl. 4, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany Website: www.spiessgeselle.de Phone: +49 911 23555525 Hours: Open Mondays from 17:00 until 24:00 and Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 until 24:00
• Mevlana – Address: Gostenhofer Hauptstraße 18, 90443 Nürnberg, Germany Website: www.mevlana-restaurant.de Phone: +49 911 2744411 Hours: Open daily from 06:00 until very late

Where to Stay in Nuremberg

We highly recommend you try to stay in a hotel close to the center. It’s a pretty walkable downtown area, filled with shops and restaurants, however parking might be an issue if you have a car. On the other hand, public transportation is really modern and easy to use, so if you want to stay a little further out, it wouldn’t hurt.

Nuremberg Airport

One of the airports we’ve used the most, Nuremberg, or Albrecht Dürer, is one of our favorites. There are few lines, little waiting, and there are a couple of budget airlines that fly through here making it really convenient for around Europe travel. Many people taking river cruises will be told to fly through Nuremberg airport , and it’s a great tip. Plus it gives you a chance to check out this fantastic Franconian city.

One thing that makes this airport so accessible is the subway goes right to it, so if you fly in. You really don’t need a car.

Munich to Nuremberg

Munich is only about an hour’s drive from Nuremberg taking Autobahn 9. This makes it simple to include it on any Bavaria itinerary. It is also a cheaper city to stay in and make Munich the day trip if you choose.

Places to Visit Nearby Nuremberg

• Playmobil Fun Park
• Hops Museum
• Kuchlbauer Tower and Brewery
• Rothenburg ob. Tauber
• Dinkelsbühl

Whether you fly into the airport and stopover before your river cruise or you are on an overall Germany tour, you will love the city of Nuremberg. It made it onto our Top 5 Germany List , that’s for sure…because…there is plenty to do, modern and historical, from the Imperial Castle to the Nazi Documentation Center, or visiting the zoo with the kids. You’ll want to keep coming back, I promise.

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

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Tuesday 10th of September 2019

I'm going to be in Nuremberg in a couple of weeks with my mom (part of a 2 week trip that will also take us to Efurt, Weimar, Dresden and Leipzig). Thanks for the itinerary ideas, I'll be following it because my mom (despite being German) is a lousy planner.

Corinne Vail

Thursday 19th of September 2019

Have fun Frank!

Turn your dream vacation into reality

One Day in Nuremberg (Walking Itinerary + Map)

• December 26, 2023

One day in Nuremberg walking itinerary that covers all the must-see attractions (+ a map and where to eat the best Nuremberg sausages).

Located on the Pegnitz River, Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is the second-largest city in Bavaria. With its medieval atmosphere and half-timbered houses, the city is one of those places with true German charm.

Once Nuremberg was a free imperial city, in fact, one of the most important cities of the Holy Roman Empire. Also, it was the preferred residence of most German kings (they even kept their crown jewels here)!

Nowadays, Nuremberg is a postcard-worthy town with a gorgeous castle, cobblestoned streets and beautiful stone bridges. It’s a must-see, especially in winter, when the famous Nuremberg Christmas market takes place.

One day in Nuremberg itinerary

Just an hour away by train from Munich, Nuremberg is the perfect day trip. If you follow this self-guided walking itinerary, you’d be able to see the best of Nuremberg in just one day.

I designed this Nuremberg itinerary in such a way that will fit perfectly both for day-trippers and overnight visitors. Here, you’ll find all the must-see attractions, including some suggestions on how to modify the itinerary according to your interests.

Planning a few days in Munich? Then take a look at my complete two days in Munich itinerary . It covers everything you need for a perfect weekend (including how to visit Neuschwanstein Castle and Salzburg).

Find a map of this Nuremberg itinerary (with all attractions and restaurants’ websites) at the end of the article.

Already have a hotel booked? Then check your hotel’s location and make sure it’s in a good area (see my guide to where to stay in Nuremberg ).

One day in Nuremberg (best walking itinerary)

• Start the day with breakfast at Back-Factory

Tour the famous Nuremberg Castle

Have lunch at white bulldog kaffeerösterei, visit the church of our lady, admire schöner brunnen, enjoy the views of holy spirit hospital, admire the art at albrecht dürer’s house, explore the medieval dungeons.

• Visit the Toy Museum or DB Museum

Taste the famous Nürnberg Rostbratwurst

09:00 AM – 09:45 AM Start your one day in Nuremberg with breakfast at Der Beck or Back-Factory. Both places offer delicious sandwiches and typical German pastries. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend the coffee at Der Beck.

The castle complex comprises of several medieval fortifications, a deep well, a double chapel and the Sinwell Tower. It’s best to visit it first thing in the morning, as it’s the city’s most popular attraction. Please note, that in the summer the castle opens at 9 AM and in the winter – at 10 AM.

You can tour the historic rooms and learn more about the castle’s importance during the Middle Ages. There are no guided tours, but it’s possible to rent an audio guide (90 minutes long). There are a few ticket combinations. To visit only the castle and its exhibitions, buy Palas with Double Chapel + Imperial Castle Museum.

To visit the well you have to join a guided tour (only in German). The tour takes place every half hour from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (in winter from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM). To visit the palace and the well, buy the combination ticket, called Imperial Castle. It includes the Palas with Double Chapel + Imperial Castle Museum, Deep Well and Sinwell Tower.

Also, allow yourself some time to wander the grounds and the gardens (in the summer) for incredible city views.

12:00 PM – 02:00 PM For lunch stop at White Bulldog Kaffeerösterei . It’s a cosy cafe, offering tasty avocado toasts, delicious cakes and smoothies.

To finish your lunch with something sweet, go to Tafelzier . They offer high-class cakes and great coffee. I went for the éclairs and wasn’t disappointed.

02:00 PM – 02:20 PM Located on the central market square, Hauptmarkt, the Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche) is one of the most impressive churches in Nuremberg. It is an excellent example of brick Gothic architecture from the 14th century.

One of its most notable features is the Männleinlaufen, a mechanical clock that commemorates the Golden Bull of 1356.

02:20 PM – 02:30 PM On Hauptmarkt, you’ll also find Schöner Brunnen (the Beautiful Fountain). This 14th-century fountain has the shape of a Gothic spire and it’s 19 meters high. It’s incredibly ornate with 40 figures that represent the worldview of the Holy Roman Empire.

Don’t leave without spinning the rings in the fence of the fountain three times. According to the legend, it will bring you good luck! The rings are small and not immediately noticeable.

This is one of the most picturesque views in Nuremberg – from Museumsbrücke towards the Holy Spirit Hospital (Heilig-Geist-Spital). The view is incredible, especially at night when the building is reflected in the river.

Once, the medieval hospital was the largest in the Holy Roman Empire. Nowadays, the building houses a restaurant.

If you’re visiting the city in December, don’t miss the world-famous Nuremberg Christmas market. It’s one of the largest markets in Germany! For more details, take a look at my guide to the Christmas market in Nuremberg .

If you’re interested in WWII, choose between Nazi Party Rally Grounds and the Palace of Justice. Unfortunately, both locations are out of the city centre and it’s not possible to tour them in half a day. Especially if you’re visiting Nuremberg on a day trip from Munich. It’s about a 20-30min journey from the city centre to each of the sites. In addition, you’ll need about 2 hours to visit each of them.

Find more details (and attractions from which you can choose) further below.

Finish this one day in Nuremberg with dinner at Hausbrauerei Altstadthof or Albrecht-Dürer-Stube .

Albrecht-Dürer-Stube is a small restaurant, serving delicious authentic German meals. It’s always full, so reserve a table in advance.

If you’re visiting Nuremberg for the Christmas markets, book a table at each restaurant you plan to visit. I didn’t and couldn’t find a place for more than half an hour. Every restaurant was fully booked.

If you’re a beer lover, then Hausbrauerei Altstadthof is the place for you. This famous local brewery dates back to the 14th century! They offer an extensive range of beers, including the historical Nuremberg city beer – rot beer.

More ideas for your one day in Nuremberg

Stroll along the weißgerbergasse.

Weißgerbergasse is the city’s most charming street. It’s the largest ensemble of medieval half-timbered houses in Nuremberg.

Albrecht Dürer’s House (Albrecht-Dürer-Haus) is a must-see for every art lover. Albrecht Dürer is one of the most famous German painters. You can actually visit the house, where the artist lived from 1509 until 1528 when he passed away. The exhibit includes items from the city’s art collections, as well as copies of Dürer’s paintings.

See the Dürer’s Rabbit

Right next to the artist’s house, you’ll find an interesting sculpture, the Dürer’s Rabbit (Dürer-Hase Skulptur). It’s a contemporary interpretation of Dürer’s famous artwork, The Young Hare.

Nazi Party Rally Grounds

For those interested in WWII, there are 2 main options – Nazi Party Rally Grounds or Nuremberg Trials Memorium.

Nazi Party Rally Grounds include the Documentation Center and the Zeppelin Field (Zeppelinfeld). The Documentation Center is housed in the unfinished Congress Hall (a congress centre built for the Nazi Party). The exhibition provides insights into the rise and fall of the Nazi Party in Germany.

Be sure to visit the Zeppelin Field, where the Nazi Party rallies took place. It’s about a 15min walk from the Documentation Centre.

To get to the Nazi Party Rally Grounds you’ll need to take the tram (line 6 or 8 in the direction Doku-Zentrum stop) – about a 20min journey.

Memorium Nuremberg Trials

Memorium Nuremberg Trials is housed on the top floor of the still active Palace of Justice. The exhibition provides insights into the defendants and their crimes, including the trials of 1946-49. You can also visit the actual Courtroom 600, where the famous Nuremberg Trials took place.

If you’re visiting the memorial after the Documentation centre, you have to take the tram (line 6 or 8) and then change to metro line U1.

Bring back your childhood memories at the Toy Museum

If you never lost the child in you (or you’re travelling with kids), the Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum) must be on your list. It’s a lovely small museum, that houses an extensive, priceless collection of around 12,000 toys.

DB Museum is the oldest railway museum in the world! It also houses the largest collection of historical vehicles. The exhibit includes more than 2,000 models and 40 rail legends, including the oldest steam locomotive in Germany, the Nordgau.

The Medieval Dungeons are located in the vaulted cellar of the Town Hall. You can visit the dungeons only as a part of a guided tour. It walks you through 12 cells and a torture chamber while giving you insights into the justice system of those days. The tours are only in German, but there are English audio guides available.

The tours take place daily from 11 AM to 3 PM (every hour by the hour). However, you need to book your tickets in advance, earlier on the same day. Go as early as you can, because the tickets sell out quickly. I went at around noon and managed to book the last tickets for the last tour of the day. The entrance is opposite St. Sebaldus Church (the entrance to the Old City Hall).

St. Lorenz Church

St. Lorenz Church (Lorenzkirche) is a gorgeous Gothic church from the 15th century. Don’t miss to take a look at the magnificent west facade, featuring a splendid portal and a richly decorated rose window.

St. Sebaldus Church

St. Sebaldus Church (Sebalduskirche) is one of the oldest churches in the city. It is named after Saint Sebaldus, the patron saint of Nuremberg from the 8th century.

See the ups and downs of marriage

The Marriage Roundabout (Ehekarussell) is a controversial fountain that represents the ups and downs of marriage. If you’re not married, be careful, as it may discourage you from getting into marriage at all. Although the start of the couple’s life is sweet and romantic, soon things get morbid.

Hangman’s Bridge

Hangman’s Bridge (Henkersteg) is one of the most interesting bridges in Nuremberg. Built after the flood of 1595, Henkersteg got its name from the word Henker (from German – the Executioner).

During the Middle Ages, the executioner had to avoid any contact with the citizens, as his profession was considered dishonest. He had to live in an isolated house on the island and walk into the city through this bridge.

Indisches Restaurant Ganesha

I’m a huge fan of Indian food and always try to visit new places when I travel. So, if you’re tired of sausages, listen to my recommendation and visit Indisches Restaurant Ganesha. It’s one of the best Indian restaurants in Nuremberg.

How to save money on your Nuremberg itinerary

If you plan to visit two museums in one day, buy a Museum Day ticket . The cost is €9 (you’ll pay €12 to visit 2 museums). You can buy the day ticket at any of the Municipal Museums.

The ticket gives you free entry to all Municipal Museums on the same day. The list includes Toy Museum, Albrecht Dürer’s House, Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Memorium Nuremberg Trials and others.

Getting around in Nuremberg

Find a detailed map of the itinerary here .

Nuremberg is easily navigable and you can explore on foot almost everything. As already mentioned, the only exceptions are the Nazi Party Rally Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials. To get to these two sights, you’ll need to use public transport (trams and metro).

While in Nuremberg, I used TagesTicket Plus (see all kinds of tickets here ). It’s a day ticket valid for groups of 1 to 6 people for all types of public transport. It’s perfect if you travel with a companion. The TagesTicket Plus costs €12.30 (equal to 4 single-ride tickets).

How to get to Nuremberg

The Nuremberg Central train station is just a short walk from the historic city centre. Check timetables and book tickets online at Deutsche Bahn official site . 

The closest airport is Nuremberg Airport (NUE). There is a direct train (U-Bahn line U2) from the airport to the central train station (15min journey).

How many days in Nuremberg

Is one day in nuremberg enough.

One day in Nuremberg is enough to visit the famous castle, tour the historic centre and visit one museum (or the Christmas markets).

Yet, if you’re interested in WWII, you’ll need 2 days to see everything. The Nazi Party Rally Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials are out of the city centre (located in opposite directions). It’s almost impossible to visit these two sites and the castle in one single day. You’ll need at least a day and a half.

What if I have less than a day in Nuremberg?

If you have less than a day, I’d recommend you visit the castle and tour the sites on the central market square. Skip the museums, as well as the WWII sites.

If you’re visiting Nuremberg on a day trip from Munich, take an early train – around 7:30 AM – 8 AM. There is a lot to explore, so it’s best if you arrive at 9 AM (or 10 AM at the latest). There are a few trains per hour and the journey is around 1h.

Best time to visit Nuremberg

The ideal time to travel to Nuremberg is the months from May to September. The weather is warm and pleasant with lots of sunny days.

Winters are chilly and frost, but don’t let this discourage you from visiting the city in December. It’s the Christmas market season and Nuremberg hosts one of the biggest markets in all of Germany!

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About the author

Thank you so much for these articles, Milena. I have just stumbled upon your work while researching my upcoming trip to Germany and Austrian Christmas markets and I have to say I am very glad that I did. You have provided me with everything I need to know about one and two day visits to multiple cities in these two fabulous countries, and all in one comprehensive article. I will definitely be using your one day itinerary in Nuremburg while I am there.

I am happy to help, John 🙂

Thank you so much for the information on your website. We are contemplating a trip to Munich at Christmas and all of the info you have really was super helpful in deciding to go! Your choices of restaurants all look interesting. We are generally francophiles, but your website really reveals Germany’s treasures. If I didn’t see your info, we would have missed Nuremberg at Christmas, I think. Thank you Carol

Thank you for your comment, Carol. 🙂

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10 best things to do in Nuremberg, Germany

A list of the best points of interest and the top tourist attractions in nuremberg, germany..

Few places in Germany can compare with Nuremberg ( Nürnberg ) when it comes to the sheer depth of history you can explore in the city. Medieval strongholds, renaissance splendor, and a rather darkish Nazi past – there are just so many things to do in Nuremberg .

As a native, I believe that the unofficial capital of Frankonia should be an essential part of every Germany itinerary. Nuremberg is also one of the best day trips from Munich ( check out my list of 20 more ), so I poured all my local knowledge into this travel guide.

Whether you want to know what to see in Nuremberg in one day or you’d like to stay for a couple of days, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your visit here. Just remember that Nuremberg is very close to the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Bamberg ( read my travel guide here ) and Regensburg ( here’s my travel guide ), so you could combine the trip with either city (or both!).

But enough of the preface, let’s get going, with my list of the top tourist attractions in Nuremberg, eh?

1. Nuremberg Castle / Kaiserburg

There is no escaping the imposing Kaiserburg on your Nuremberg tour. The medieval castle does not only dominate the whole cityscape but is also the most important tourist highlight. Construction (probably) started around 1,000 AD, though most of what you see today dates back to the 15th century or later.

The Nuremberg castle was heavily damaged during World War II. Only the imperial chapel survived the bombings, quite through a miracle, the rest has been faithfully restored after the war. Ever since 2016, you’ll find a very lovely exhibition inside ( check out the website )!

Fun fact: The stables were transformed into a youth hostel in 1937 and remain open for eligible tourists until today.

2. St. Lorenz church

There are many beautiful churches in Germany, but few are able to surpass the St. Lorenz church in terms of artworks on display. In fact, walking through the long nave of the gothic church feels more like visiting an art gallery than a place of worship.

Most notable, among the many outstanding paintings and sculptures, is certainly the central “ Angelic Salutation ” by the medieval mastermind Veit Stoss. The majestic limewood sculpture hangs in the middle of the choir, right behind the altar and is one of the must-sees in Nuremberg!

Note: There are frequent organ concerts, so  check out the website  to see the schedule!

3. Germanic National Museum

My personal favorite spot in Nuremberg is the Germanische National Museum ( check out the website ). It’s one of the first Museum in Germany and home to an outstanding collection of medieval central European art. The museum also houses an unparalleled wealth of everyday objects throughout the ages (clothes, music instruments, table wear, weapons and so much more).

I particularly like the department for early medieval and late Roman artifacts. The museum is quite large and you will probably need 4 to 6 hours to see it all without rushing, so plan accordingly. You can easily skip a department or two and just focus on the highlights, though! Of all the museums in Nuremberg, this is the one you really can’t skip!

Inside, you will find the first globe ever made (the Behaim globe), the Ahmad Ibn Muhammad Al-Naqqash Astrolabe from the 10th century, the beyond than famous Golden hat of Ezelsdorf-Buch, many famous paintings by Albrecht Dürer, and so many other outstanding artworks each marking a quantum leap in human culture.

Note: For me, the Germanic National Museum is one of the best things to do in Nuremberg on Sunday – especially in winter or when it rains. The museum is closed on Mondays.

4. Albrecht Dürer’s House

Albrecht Dürer was probably Nuremberg’s most famous citizen. The German Renaissance painter is often mentioned in the same breath as Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, and Giovanni Bellini. He was born in Nuremberg and spend most of his life here. Five centuries later, you can still visit his birth house ( here’s a link to the website ).

There is a very beautiful museum inside and even a new wing dedicated to his paintings (most of them medieval reproductions, though). Best of all: His old kitchen, living room, and workroom have been faithfully restored . It’s like he only moved out yesterday.

5. Nuremberg Toy Museum

One of the places that will probably surprise you the most is the toy museum. It’s not only one of the best things to do in Nuremberg with kids, but also a fun place to visit for adults . Inside, you will find precious toys from the past two centuries (and beyond!).

I especially love their huge collections of fantastic  dollhouses . Almost all of them fully functionally and presented with such ingenious attention to detail you almost want to move in. Some of them are so richly made, it’s quite incompressible somebody was allowed to play with them ( check out the website ).

Note: There are huge areas dedicated to actually playing games, so bring some extra time!

6. Hangman’s bridge & Weinstadel

The Hangman’s bridge (German: Henkersteg ) is quite the unique historic ensemble you should not miss on your Nuremberg tour. The  roofed wooden bridge connects St. Lorenz quarter with the Trödelmark Island.

While there is a little museum inside the Hangman’s tower, your main reason to visit is the beyond than picturesque setting . Right next to the tower you will find the Weinstadel – a medieval half-timbered house of epic proportions (in fact the largest in Germany). Definitely put it on your list of things to see in Nuremberg!

7. Fembo house / City Museum

Another ancient house, this time from the Renaissance period, is the Fembo house. It is the only surviving aristocratic house in Nuremberg from this period and now houses the city museum (there are a couple of others, but they were heavily damaged or utterly destroyed during WWII)

I want to be honest with you. The city museum itself is probably not very interesting for foreign tourists, but being able to tour a house dating back to the late 15th century is utterly priceless. There are a couple of noteworthy rooms, especially on the 2nd story, that you really have to see! Here is the website .

Pro tip: You only have to pay entrance to two city museums. So, if you visited the Dürer house and the toy museum, the Fembo house will be free for you! (just keep your tickets!)

8. St. Sebaldus Church

The St. Sebaldus Church ( St. Sebald) is the oldest Protestant church in the city . Inside you will find the tomb of the city patron of the selfsame name. The shrine counts among the most important bronze sculptures from the late medieval time in Germany.

The church itself is quite noteworthy as well. Especially the choir at the far back of the church is exceptionally lovely ! As you will pass St. Sebaldus on your way up to the castle anyway, there’s no reason not to stop for a minute (or two!)

Note: The original reliquary is now located inside the Germanic National Museum

9. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Ground

Nuremberg is grounded deep in Germany’s history, and it was this fact the Nazis used for their ends. Between 1933 and 1938 all National Socialist party rallies were held in Nuremberg . A huge rotunda of epic proportions still can be found on the outskirts of the city where once Adolf Hitler and his propaganda machinery used the area of almost 4 square kilometers to enthrall the masses.  Here is the website to plan your stay!

If you want to know more about this part of German history, make sure to drop by at the Nuremberg Trials Memorial as well. It was here an International Military Tribunal held court over the leaders of the Nazi regime between November 20, 1945, and October 1, 1946! Most people wondering what Nuremberg is famous for will want to hear about the Nazi past. So, why not dig a little deeper?

10. Neues Museum Nürnberg

There are so many historic places to see in Nuremberg, it’s quite easy to forget the present. Yet, Nürnberg is anything but a museum town! To get a feeling for the present, you definitely should visit the “Neues Museum”, a lovely museum for contemporary art with tons of ever-changing special exhibitions.  Here’s the official website .

[Bonus] Christmas Market

Looking for romantic things to do in Nuremberg in Winter? Well then, you are in for a special treat: The Nuremberg Christmas market is one of the oldest, biggest and most famous ones in Europe  (you’ll find another beautiful one in Dresden ) . Gingerbreads, bratwurst and mulled wine galore – most tourists will love it.

As a German, I have to point out that there are better Christmas markets in our country (despite its fame). But you’ll certainly never regret strolling along the endless aisled of Christmas decorations. Just make sure to bring lots of cash , as you won’t be able to use your credit card.

Other things to do in Nuremberg

I tried to focus this article on things you could see in Nuremberg in one day. But nothing speaks against staying a night, as there are many other lovely points of interest. Nuremberg has quite a lovely zoo and certainly more beautiful churches to explore than I mentioned above. The Church of our Lady ( Frauenkirche ) on the central square comes to mind, but it’s certainly not the only one. You should definitely not miss the Heilig Geist Spital (now a restaurant) when you got sightseeing in Nuremberg, either

I already mentioned the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, but if you are traveling with kids, the Nuremberg Transport Museum ( here’s the website ) will be a true highlight. If you want to get more intimate with the medieval side, then absolutely make sure to tour the extensive city walls and make sure to visit historic subterranean Nuremberg ( here’s the website ). The ancient Tucher Mansion ( click for the official website ) is also always worth a little detour!

Naturally, you can also take your time shopping!

Things to do in Nuremberg at Night

Nuremberg is not Berlin, Cologne or Munich, so the nightlife in Nuremberg might not be as crazy, but I still recommend you to leave your hotels at least once after nightfall. If you are visiting in December, this is a no-brainer, as you certainly don’t want to miss the Christmas market at night. But I’m utterly sure you will thoroughly enjoy walking through the old town .

You could also join one of the Nightwatchman’s tours in Nuremberg. These can be quite fun and are usually led by a guide glad in medieval clothes (and usually acting a bit like from that time as well). These tours are available in English and German (the tourist Information will point you to where to get tickets)

Apart from walking along the sheer endless city wall, you could also book tickets for a performance at the State Theatre Nuremberg ( here is the website ). Be aware that most performances will be in German, though. Other than that, Nuremberg has a couple of lovely bars and even a club. Virtualnights is usually a good place to check them out.

Where to stay in Nuremberg

Note: I earn a small commission from purchases through the links in this article.

Nuremberg has an excellent public transport system. There are frequent buses and a subway, and as it’s not all that large, taxis are a viable option for those awkward distances in between. So, it’s not essential to pick a hotel directly in the middle of the city, doubly so, as the Nazi party rally grounds are found on the outside anyway.

Other than that, a quick glance at a Nuremberg tourist map will show you that all highlights are within easy walking distance . So, basically, I recommend you to pick a hotel based on your budget and your comfort preferences and not so much on location.

I have been to Nuremberg a couple of times and checked out a couple of hotels and here are the ones I would recommend based on my experience.

• Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg
• Park Plaza (this is where I stayed during my last visit)
• Hotel DasPaul (very central)
• Motel One (reliable standard)
• Motel One (I’m a big fan, quite an excellent hotel chain!)
• A1 Hostel Nünrberg  (for those looking for a hostel)

When to visit Nuremberg

Probably the best time to visit Nuremberg is in December , close before Christmas. The snow, the spirit of the holiday season, and of course the Christmas markets are hard to beat. It is, however, also the most expensive time of the year.

As most of the tourist attractions are inside (or partially so), you are not very dependent on the weather in Nuremberg. It can be a fun city to explore even on a rainy day.

If you are for some sun, then July and August are your best bet (though the German weather is quite unpredictable). Kindly note that this coincides with the summer holidays in Germany best, where you can expect higher hotel prices and bigger crowds as well.

Taking the train from Munich to Nuremberg

It’s quite feasible to visit Nuremberg on a day trip from Munich. There are trains leaving every 30 minutes and it only takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. For the train schedule (and buying tickets) please check out the official website of the German Railway (“Deutsche Bahn”).

The first train to Nuremberg currently leaves at 4:13 am but there really is no point in taking it. Except you want to see the sunrise, but I’m not sure this is worth it, as most museums won’t open before 10:00 am. Take a train around 8 am and you will be perfectly fine.

The last train to leave Nuremberg for Munich currently departs at 11:30 pm , so you will have plenty of time to explore the city. Best of all: The ancient city wall, and thus the old town, is right across the street from the train station in Nuremberg.

You can also take the train from Frankfurt to Nuremberg for a day trip , though it will take 2 hours each way, while I’d say a day trip from Berlin (2h 50 min) is not feasible except you are desperate.

All in all, Nuremberg is quite an important train station and most of the highspeed trains crossing Germany will make a stop here. So, you will have no problem fitting a sightseeing-stop in Nuremberg into your itinerary.

So, that’s it. Hope you enjoyed my travel guide to the best things to do in Nuremberg, Germany. Got any questions? Ask them in the comments below! And don’t forget to pin this guide to your Pinterest board.

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Great pictures! I love Nuremberg a lot, great city with a great vibe.

Do you know if the castles and museums are free?

Hey Dan, none of the museums in Nuremberg are free. You can stroll around the castle ground for free, but if you want to get inside (which I highly recommend) you’ll have to pay a fee.

This is great piece! We are planning to go October 2019 and traveling by train to several cities. Is it best to purchase the train tickets (I checked out Deutsche Bahn site) in advance or ok to buy the day or few days before. My concern is if a particular time is no longer available. Thanks, Alice

I lived in Nuernberg two years and recently researched it extensively for a trip back in 2020. This article is perhaps the best single one I’ve read on seeing the city. Please accept my thanks and congratulations.

Hey Clint, thank you for that praise. means a lot!

Currently researching everything I can about the city for a story I’m writing, and I have to say how much I appreciate all of the links you’ve provided, as well as your own commentary. Very insightful. I hope to visit Nuremberg someday. Will definitely use this as part of my tourist guide

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Nuremberg, Germany

The 950-year old city of Nuremberg (spelled  Nürnberg  in  German ) is still alive with history. It is  Bavaria ’s second largest city, about two hours from  Munich  and a  frequent stopover  for people on their way to the southern capitol.

This charming city has a castle and whimsical statues and fountains as well as one of the best Christmas markets in the country, but is also well-known for its infamous connection to the Nazi party. There are many highlights of Nuremberg that no traveler should miss — from history buffs and art lovers to culinary travelers and romantics.

Here is the best of Nürnberg.

Walk Nuremberg's Old Town & City Walls

Franz Marc Frei / LOOK-foto / Getty Images

The ideal way to explore Nuremberg’s Altstadt (Old Town) is on foot. Although much of Nuremberg was destroyed during World War II, the medieval old town has been faithfully reconstructed.

One of the main attractions is the original city walls, Stadtgraben   (protective ditch), and towers. Not just for show, the walls were first put up in the 11th century and were very effective in deterring invaders. Over the long history of Nuremberg’s fortifications, the city was only ever captured once: in 1945 by the Americans.

The best stretch of the walls to walk is along the west side of the town between Spittlertor   and what was once Maxtor. Continue through the Burgviertel (castle quarter) which is filled with its sandstone and timber framed houses. The street of Weißgerbergasse is a wonderful example of the impressive craftsmanship.

Storm the Castle

GettyImages / Heinz Wohner  LOOK-foto

What would a castle quarter be without a castle? Kaiserburg or Nürnberger Burg   was a royal residence of Germany’s kings between 1050 to 1571. This impressive castle is one of the most important surviving medieval fortresses in all of Europe.

The castle sits atop a sandstone hill presiding over the city. With 351-meter-tall fortifications, visitors can climb up to the observation platform at the castle for panorama views of Nuremberg. Another point of interest in the castle goes the other direction. The Tiefer Brunnen (Deep Well) from 1563 bores down 164 feet into the cliffside. To discover the history of the castle, the  Imperial Castle Museum of the Bower  showcases medieval weapons and suits of armor.

If you want to stay castle adjacent for cheap, there is a hostel in what was once the imperial stables,  Jugendherberge Nürnberg .

Visit the Home of Albrecht Dürer

GettyImages / SeanPavonePhoto

Partly damaged during the war, the house was magnificently restored in 1971 on Dürer’s 500th birthday. It is hard to miss both because of the crowds who gather here, and the  giant bunny  (simply known as "Der Hase "  by artist Jürgen Goertz )  on the street out front.

One of Nuremberg’s most famous residents was the artist Albrecht Dürer. A champion of the Northern Renaissance that lived in the late 1400s and early 1500s, he created some of the first maps of the stars and may be Germany's greatest painter.

The picturesque house he lived and worked in just below the Imperial Castle is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. A master of the self-portrait, his work is prominently on display and the décor matches the time period when he lived here. Guided tours are available in German and occasionally in English for super-fans.

Visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds

GettyImages / Norbert Probst

Adolf Hitler declared that Nuremberg should be “City of the Nazi Party Rallies” in 1933. This legacy still looms large.

The grounds and Congress Hall were never fully realized, but are still an impressive site. Modeled on the Holy Roman Empire, this was the place for major Nazi events and parades with grandstands based on the Pergammon Altar providing seating to watch troops goose-stepping across the grounds. There are hours of newsreel footage that show the grounds during their nefarious heyday.

The development of this location was stalled as the war continued, and completely abandoned as the Nazi party crumbled. It stood as a sad memorial to this time period for decades and is currently under municipal ownership, perhaps forever in partial ruins.

The massive Congress Hall is the largest preserved Nazi building, planned to seat 50,000 people. A Dokuzentrum (Documentation Center) within the hall covers the rise and fall of the Nazi Party.

Memorialize the Nuremberg Trials

Horacio Villalobos/ Getty Images

In the east wing of Nuremberg’s Justizpalast (Palace of Justice) is a museum dedicated to the notorious Nuremberg trials that took place after World War II between 1945 and 1949.

On the top floor, there is a museum about the Nuremberg Trials. Visitors hear about the lead-up to war, individual roles people played, and can even visit courtroom 600. This is where leaders of the Nazi regime were prosecuted for their crimes.

The site is still a working courtroom, but visitors can observe this location between sessions. The easiest time to visit is on Saturdays with tours available in English. 

Eat at the World's Oldest Sausage Restaurant

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Nürnberg Rostbratwurst  are a very popular sausage in Germany. Each sausage is about the size of a fat little finger, weighing about an ounce and measuring three to four inches in length. Made from coarsely ground pork, the sausages are usually seasoned with marjoram, salt, pepper, ginger, cardamom and lemon powder.

This sausage is under the Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) like the German beer from  Cologne ,  Kölsch , or the Spreewald's famous pickle. More than three million Nürnberg Rostbratwurst   are produced every day and they are eaten around the world.

Served everywhere from imbiss stands to biergartens, there is nowhere better to eat this wurst than in the city of its birth. The best place to eat them is at  Bratwurstglöcklein im Handwerkerhof. This restaurant has been cooking nürnberger bratwurst   since 1313 and is the oldest sausage kitchen in Nuremberg. Wurst   are cooked traditionally, grilled on a charcoal grill and served on the classic tin plate with sauerkraut, potato salad, horseradish, fresh bread or pretzel, and—of course—a Franconian beer.

Celebrate Christmas at One of Germany's Best Markets

The  Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt  (Nuremberg Christmas Market) is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Germany.

Dating back to the 16th century, the traditional market takes place on the cobblestone streets of Nuremberg’s romantic Old Town. Its organizers keep a watchful eye on the tasteful decoration of the wooden huts (no plastic garlands or taped Christmas music allowed).

Add another Nuremberg specialty to your diet at this time of year with Nürnberger Lebkuchen, a unique gingerbread just made here and shipped around the country. Buy some as a souvenir, or look for traditional ornaments like the Rauschgoldengel (gold angel) or Zwetschgenmännle (prune figure). 

Circle Old Town on the Mini-Train

If you want to see all the sites of Old Town Nuremberg but don't feel like walking through the cobblestone streets, hop aboard the Mini-Train. The 40-minute loop around Old Town starts in the main market square and passes the Maxbrücke Bridge, St. Lawrence Church, the Hospital of the Holy Spirit, and the Imperial Castle before arriving back at the market. While you enjoy the ride, an on-board tour guide will share stories and histories of various buildings along the way.

Marvel at the Architecture of Weinstadel

W. Meier / Getty Images

Located on the Historical Mile in Nuremberg, Weinstadel is a medieval wine storage warehouse that originally served as a hospital for lepers. A visit to this historic structure is a quick stop in Old Town, but be sure to take a moment to marvel at this perfect example of German architecture in the Middle Ages. Its half-timber frame, sandstone brick walls, and picturesque location alongside the river make it an iconic backdrop for a souvenir photo of your trip.

Go Underground to the Medieval Dungeons

The Medieval Dungeons (Mittelalterliche Lochgefangnisse) are a series of 12 small cells and a torture chamber in the vaulted cellar of Nuremberg's Old City Hall. A testament to medieval judicial processes, the dungeons served from 1320 onward as a place to punish criminals of all ranks and classes in the city. Located on Historische Felsengänge in the Bergstrasse district of the city, Old City Hall offers multimedia tours of the dungeons daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Explore the Germanic National Museum

GettyImages / Neil Farrin 

The Germanisches Nationalmuseum (Germanic National Museum) holds the country's largest collection related to German art and culture.

The museum covers everything from toys to armor to scientific instruments in its 1.3 million items, as well as over 300,000 works of art. Among its collection is the world’s oldest surviving globe. Created in 1492, there are stark differences to the globe we are used to today. There is no America on the globe as it had to yet to be discovered by Europeans.

Approach the museum from Kartäusergasse and Straße der Menschenrechte (The Way of Human Rights). This street is a monument dedicated to world peace.

Watch the Clock at the Church

GettyImages / Peter Zelei Images

The Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) is a focal point of the center of the city off of the Hauptmarkt. Gather here every day at noon to see the "Running Men" clock (built in 1509) strike noon and the moving electors pay tribute to Emperor Charles IV.

At Christmas, mount the steps of the church and find the special exhibition of the Christkindlesblick which allows for excellent views from the balcony over the square for a small entrance fee.

Dine in a 700-Year-Old Hospital

GettyImages / grafalex

The Heilig-Geist-Spital Nürnberg   (Holy Spirit Hospital in Nuremberg) is a spectacular site overhanging the canal. It is one of the largest hospitals of the Middle Ages, founded in 1332, and is one of few still standing.

It was severely damaged during World War II, but was beautifully rebuilt in the 1950s and is an eye-catching attraction. Step inside the hospital without needing a sick note and dine in the restaurant. They serve traditional  Bavarian food  in the most atmospheric of environments.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at the Zoo

GettyImages / Helmut Meyer zur Capellen

Tiergarten Nürnberg (Nuremberg Zoo) is one of the largest zoos in Europe at nearly 70 hectares.

Founded in 1912 and located in the Nuremberg Reichswald just east of the Altstadt, the zoo is in a former sandstone quarry. These features have been utilized by the zoo to create natural enclosures for animals like the Siberian and Bengal tigers.

Also to be observed are snow leopards, bison, maned wolves, South African cheetahs, bottlenose dolphins, bearded vultures, lowland gorillas, and polar bears. 

Turn the Golden Ring for Luck

interlight/Getty Images 

The Schöner Brunnen (beautiful fountain) lives up to its name. Located in the elegant central square of Hauptmarkt ,  this fountain was designed in the late 1300s to top the nearby  Frauenkirche . However, it was so impressive on completion it was decided to keep it within the square to better appreciate its beauty. It even survived World War II intact as it was protected in a concrete shell.

Today it stands 62 feet high and its many golden decorations catch the sunlight. A total of 42 stone statues surround the fountain including Moses and the seven prophets at the top, with a big copper ring on the north side of the fence. Legend says you should turn the ring left three times for luck and locals and tourists all visit to the fountain for a bit of gut Glück.

The Historical City of Nuremberg, Germany

Your Trip to Nuremberg: The Complete Guide

The 9 Best Museums in Nuremberg

Top 10 Things to Do in Bavaria, Germany

48 Hours in Nuremberg: The Ultimate Itinerary

Statues and Fountains in Nuremberg

The Best Cities to Visit in Bavaria: Munich and Nuremberg

The Top 23 Things to Do in Munich

Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

5 Foods to Try in Nuremberg

48 Hours in Munich: The Ultimate Itinerary

Lübeck: Planning Your Trip

The Best UNESCO Sites in Germany

How to Visit Munich on a Budget

The Best Festivals in Germany

Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

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One Day In Nuremberg Itinerary: Nuremberg’s Highlights In 24 Hours

• May 17, 2022

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

If you’re looking to spend one day in Nuremberg, chances are you’re super interested in history! Nuremberg is world-famous for being the site where the Nuremberg trials took place, which is when leading Nazi figures were sentenced for their crimes during WW2.

Although the fascinating Nuremberg Trials Museum is a must-visit whilst in Nuremberg, there are actually plenty of other interesting things to do and see in Nuremberg!

One day in Nuremberg won’t be enough time to see everything the city has to offer, but it’s definitely is enough time to get a taste of the city . One day is definitely enough to see the highlights. That’s why so many people head to Nuremberg on a day trip!

Whether you’re staying overnight or just visiting on a day trip, this one day in Nuremberg itinerary will be perfect for you! In it, I’ll cover everything you need to know before you visit, the best things to do, places to eat, and my hotel recommendations.

Table of Contents

Where is Nuremberg?

You’ll find Nuremberg in the state of Bavaria , in southern Germany. After Munich, it’s the second biggest city in the state!

Getting to Nuremberg from elsewhere in Germany

Many people visit Nuremberg as a day trip from Frankfurt or Munich , but it’s also common for people to visit Nuremberg as a quick city break from other European cities. 

The train from Frankfurt takes just over two hours , making a day trip to Nuremberg a pretty long day! However, the train is direct, so in terms of actually getting here, it’s pretty straightforward. Return tickets cost around €40 , and you can buy them in advance from the DB website .

From Munich, the train takes around 1 hour , making it a super quick and easy day trip. Once again, the train is direct. To save money on this journey, buy the Bavaria Ticket from the DB website.

This ticket allows you to go anywhere in Bavaria for just €26 for a single ticket. Up to 5 people can be added to a Bavaria ticket, and the more people you add the less it costs per person. It’s a great deal.

Getting to Nuremberg from the airport

Getting to Nuremberg city centre from Nuremberg airport is super straightforward, and very quick. At the airport train station, simply purchase a single ticket at the train station and catch the train to Rathenauplatz. The journey takes just 10 minutes .

One Day in Nuremberg Itinerary

Note : This one day in Nuremberg itinerary doesn’t include a visit to the Nazi Rally Grounds , since they’re outside the city centre and you’d get far more out of your visit there if you went with a tour guide to explain the context.

If you’re interested, you can join this 4-hour tour of Nuremberg’s old town and the Nazi Rally Grounds, led by a historian, for just €24. If you’re into dark tourism, this is one of the best places to visit in Nuremberg.

Stop 1 – Imperial Castle

Start your day by visiting the Nuremberg Imperial Castle, which offers some of the best views in the city! The castle complex dates back to the mediaeval period and has overseen the city for hundreds of years.

It’s totally free to walk around the castle complex itself, but you do have to pay ( €5.50 ) to go inside.

I made the mistake of doing this, and trust me – it’s not worth it . The exhibitions inside the castle are sparse at best. Instead, simply walk around outside taking in the views for free.

Stop 2 – Albrecht Dürer’s House

The next stop, just a short stroll from Nuremberg Castle, is the house of arguably the most famous former resident of Nuremberg , the artist Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528).

Dürer lived here from 1509 to 1528 , and the house is now a museum and gallery dedicated to him.

Inside, you’ll find a recreation of Dürer’s workshop, a rotating exhibition of Dürer’s works, and you can also receive a guided tour by audioguide, narrated by an actress playing the part of Dürer’s wife, Agnes Dürer.

Entry costs €6.

Stop 3 – Hauptmarkt and Schöner Brunnen

This pretty square, in the heart of the Nuremberg old town, is home to daily markets where you should spend some time perusing the local goods, crafts and street food on offer.

If you’re visiting Nuremberg in December, this is where you’ll find the Nuremberg Christmas Markets , often voted the best in Germany.

On the eastern side of the square you’ll find the gothic-style Frauenkirche church, and to the north you’ll find Schöner Brunnen , an ornate, 19-metre tall fountain that has three tiers. 

After perusing the market and the square’s most notable landmarks, it’s time to move on. You have a lot to see if you’re visiting Nuremberg in just one day!

Stop 4 – Maxbrücke

On your way to the next destination on this itinerary make a quick stop at the Maxbrücke, one of the city’s prettiest viewpoints . You’ll only need a few minutes here as it’s just a pretty area to snap some photos, but still definitely worth visiting nonetheless.

The river flowing through Nuremberg has plenty of scenic places to stop and snap some photos, but the area surrounding the Maxbrücke was definitely my favourite.

Stop 5 – Lunch at Zum Gulden Stern

Zum Gulden Stern is easily one of the most quaint restaurants in Nuremberg. In summer, you can enjoy the weather in the beer garden, and in winter, snuggle up inside surrounded by their cosy and old-timey decor. 

Nuremberg is famous for its own style of sausage, the Nürnberger Rostbratwurst , which you should order here. They’re similar to typical bratwurst but they’re much smaller – about the size of your index finger!

For this reason, dishes usually come with 6, 8, 10 or 12 of them, and you can choose a side dish, which is usually either potato salad, horseradish or sauerkraut. 

I paid €14.20 for 8 Bratwurst and a side of potato salad. Go ahead and order a Weissbier (€4.20) too. After all, you’re on holiday!

Stop 6 – Nuremberg Trials Museum

The majority of the afternoon of this one day in Nuremberg itinerary is spent at the fabulous Nuremberg Trials Museum , an absolute must for any history (or law) nerd! Even if you’re not a nerd on these topics it’s definitely worth a visit to learn more about the aftermath of WW2.

Unless you can speak very good German you will need to use the free audio guide here, as all of the written information is in German. This means that you’ll need to spend longer at the museum than you’d expect because you can’t skim through the information.

That said, this museum is very good indeed, and you can actually enter the courtroom where the trials took place! We’re not typically taught about what happened in Germany after WW2 at school, so I learnt a lot here, and I’m sure you will too.

Entry costs €6 .

Stop 7 – Dinner at Albrecht-Dürer Stube

This cosy and intimate restaurant is the most popular in the city, so if you want to eat here a reservation is essential at the weekend . It’s the best restaurant in Nuremberg if you’re looking for local Franconian food and beer. 

Inside their Dürer-inspired dining room you can sample dishes such as Käsespätzle (German mac and cheese), pork shoulder, and, of course, Nuremberg sausages. Mains cost between €8.50 and €13.50 , which is super reasonable given how popular this place is.

If you can’t get a table at Albrecht-Dürer Stube, I can also vouch for Alte Küch’n & Im Keller , which is pretty similar and has great service.

Spending 2 or More Days in Nuremberg

If you’re looking to visit Nuremberg for two days, or even spend a weekend in Nuremberg (which is what I did!) you’ll want to add a few extra attractions to your itinerary. Here are a couple of suggestions:

Historischer Kunstbunker

If you have time, you should definitely visit the Historischer Kunstbunker. During a visit to this underground bunker your guide will take you around the network of underground tunnels.

The tunnels were previously used as a medieval beer cellar before being converted into a bomb shelter in WW2 where the Nazis stored priceless artworks to protect them from bomb damage.

The tour runs just once a day, at the same time each day, and costs €10.50 . If a visit to the Historischer Kunstbunker sounds like something you’d enjoy, check the timings here and book your place in advance!

Former Nazi Rally Grounds

As I mentioned earlier in this post since the Former Nazi Rally Grounds are slightly outside of the city centre and would take up too much time to visit on just one day in Nuremberg if you want to cover as many attractions as possible.

However, if you have extra time in Nuremberg, or are willing to join a tour like this one , you’ll be able to squeeze a visit in. 

Germanisches Nationalmuseum

If you want to learn more about the history of German culture and art , look no further than the Germanisches Nationalmuseum.

This place is massive, so I recommend picking up a museum map and choosing the sections you want to see, otherwise you’ll spend ages here.

Day trips from Nuremberg

My top travel tip for Nuremberg is to use it as a base for taking day trips to other parts of Bavaria. This is because Nuremberg is well-connected by public transport and the accommodation in Nuremberg is far cheaper than the more popular Munich.

For this reason, I highly recommend adding an extra couple of days to your Nuremberg itinerary to go on a day trip or two. Check out my top recommendations for places to visit near Nuremberg!

Accommodation in Nuremberg

If you want to travel to Nuremberg as a solo traveller or on a tight budget, look no further than this cool hostel . It has spacious rooms, is located right next to the town walls (so most things are within walking distance), and it’s Hostelworld’s top-rated hostel in Nuremberg!

A bed in a dorm room costs around €27 , so it’s definitely not cheap, but dorms in Western Europe very rarely are!

Budget Hotel

I opted to stay at this fabulous budget hotel whilst in Nuremberg and feel confident recommending it. For around €60 per night you’ll get a double room in this cool hipster hotel with an amazing shower (always an important factor for me!). 

The only downside is that it’s around a 25-minute walk, or a short ride on the underground, from the city centre. In my opinion, the price more than makes up for that, though.

Click here to book!

Mid-Range Hotel

Want more space? Then these chic studio apartments right in the city centre will be perfect for you. They’re perfect for mid-range travellers due to their fancy decor, but the fact that you have a kitchen to be able to cook your own food means you’ll save money during your stay overall.

A studio apartment for two costs around €100 per night.

Click here to check availability!

Getting Around Nuremberg

Getting around Nuremberg is simple. Most of the attractions in the Old Town are within walking distance of each other, and for anything further out of the city you’ll probably use the underground. You can buy tickets at the vending machines at all underground stations. 

Don’t forget to validate your ticket by putting it into the machines that are just in front of the escalators before you head down to the underground!

Best Time to Visit Nuremberg

Nuremberg is one of those rare places that is great to visit at any time of year . In winter you have the world-famous Nuremberg Christmas Markets, in spring and autumn the weather is mild, and in summer Nuremberg’s beer gardens come to life!

If I had to recommend a time of year to avoid, though, it would probably be January-March. The limited daylight hours, lack of Christmas markets and generally poor weather would make things pretty bleak.

I visited in late April and it was perfect! The weather was mostly dry and sunny, but not too hot.

Is Nuremberg Worth Visiting?

If you’re a German travel fanatic, or a history or a law fanatic, Nuremberg is definitely worth visiting. I loved my time here!

However, I don’t think Nuremberg is worth adding as a standalone stop to a first time in Germany itinerary. There are quite a few cities that are prettier and have more to do than Nuremberg. Instead, if you’ve never been to Germany before, I would recommend making a day trip to Nuremberg from a bigger tourist hub such as Munich.

If you’ve already gone on a few trips to Germany it’s time to branch out. Nuremberg is a great place to start.

German is the official language in Nuremberg. At most tourist attractions, bars, restaurants and hotels, though, you’ll get by with English . 

I personally speak German, so I didn’t have any difficulties here. I saw plenty of tourists speaking only English, though, and there didn’t appear to be any problems. Of course, though, learning “ Danke ” (thank you) is always a good place to start.

So there you have it, everything you need to know to spend one wonderful day in Nuremberg, Germany! I hope you have an amazing trip.

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Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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• Munich or Stuttgart
• Munich or Stuttgart?

Planning your next trip to Germany and torn between visiting Munich or Stuttgart ? Both cities are equally fascinating destinations, each with their own unique appeal. Read our detailed comparison of the two cities to choose the right city for your travel plans and interests.

Munich, the capital of Bavaria in southern Germany, is probably best-known as the host of the world-famous Oktoberfest - an annual event where visitors are torn between sampling the funfair rides and admiring the traditional dirndls and lederhosen. And let's not forget the traditional German beer culture and authentic Bavarian cuisine.

But it also is home to some stunning architecture and a rich history. Exploring Munich means immersing yourself in centuries of culture, with lively beer gardens, charming streets and remarkable museums offering something for everyone's taste.

Stuttgart, in south-west Germany, offers a different atmosphere. The modern city on the Neckar river is home to world-renowned car manufacturers such as Porsche and Mercedes-Benz and has an active arts and music scene. Those who are interested in history will find plenty to explore both in the city itself and in surrounding towns like Ludwigsburg and Tübingen .

So whether you're looking to soak up centuries of culture or explore modern city life, our comparison guide will help you decide which destination best suits your interests.

Location and Transportation

Getting to stuttgart and munich.

Munich and Stuttgart are both located in southern Germany. Munich is in Upper Bavaria (which actually means the southern part of the state). Stuttgart is located on the Neckar river pretty much in the centre of Baden-Württemberg.

Munich Airport is the major airport serving Munich, while Stuttgart Airport serves Stuttgart. Both offer direct flights to major cities in Europe and beyond, although Munich is a larger airport with far more passengers and flights per day.

Both are located some way out of the main city centre and require a train or bus journey for further transport.

The easiest way to get from Munich Airport to the city centre is by the regular S-Bahn trains or the Lufthansa Airport Bus. The bus is a little quicker than the train but both will get you into the centre in under an hour.

Stuttgart Airport is connected to the city centre by the S-Bahn regional train service. The journey on the S2 or S3 takes around half an hour.

If you prefer to travel to either city by train, Deutsche Bahn offers ICE trains from major cities in Germany to both Munich and Stuttgart.

The main train station in Munich is München Hauptbahnhof. München Pasing and München Ost are also railway stations with connections to other German and Austrian cities.

The main train station in Stuttgart is Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof.

Flixbus and Eurolines are popular bus companies that offer routes to both Munich and Stuttgart from major cities in Europe.

Getting around Munich and Stuttgart

Munich's public transport system is run by the transit company MVV ( Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund ). It consists of a regional train service (S-Bahn), an underground train service (U-Bahn), a tram network and a series of bus routes serving areas of the city which are otherwise not connected.

Visitors can buy a single trip ticket for various zones, a day ticket, a group day ticket, or an IsarCard (weekly or monthly ticket) covering various zones. Website : www.mvv-muenchen.de

Stuttgart has a regional train service (S-Bahn) and a network of bus and tram routes covering the different neighbourhoods in the city. The city public transport also includes a funicular railway to the Waldfriedhof and a rack railway to the Degerloch neighbourhood.

Tickets including all forms of transport are available from the Stuttgart transit company VVS for various zones and periods. Website : en.vvs.de

Attractions and Activities

Munich’s marvels.

Munich, the lively capital of Bavaria, is brimming with history and culture. Wander through the bustling Marienplatz and marvel at the iconic New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and its famous Glockenspiel. Dive into the city’s rich art scene by visiting world-renowned museums such as the Alte Pinakothek, displaying masterpieces from the likes of Rembrandt and Dürer.

A visit to Allianz Arena, home of FC Bayern Munich, is a must for sports fans. If sipping from a beer stein sounds more to your liking, head over to Hofbräuhaus or one of the city’s many charming beer gardens. Nature lovers will adore Munich’s green heart - the Englischer Garten - offering a green oasis close to the centre of the city perfect for leisurely strolls or lively picnics.

Stuttgart’s Spectacles

Stuttgart may be smaller than Munich, but it certainly doesn’t lack attractions or activities. The birthplace of automobiles is proudly showcased in the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum – a delight for car aficionados! Architectural splendour awaits visitors at Schlossplatz with its stunning baroque palaces like Neues Schloss and Altes Schloss.

Climb up Karlshöhe hill amidst one of Europe’s largest urban parks – ‘Killesberg Park’ – where stunning panoramic views await you at every turn. For cultural immersion, don’t miss out on Staatsgalerie Stuttgart hosting an impressive collection ranging from Old Masters to contemporary works.

Festivals and Events

Munich is famous for its Oktoberfest, a 16-day festival celebrating beer, food and Bavarian culture. The city also hosts several other festivals throughout the year, including the Munich Film Festival and the Tollwood Summer Festival.

Stuttgart's most famous festival is the Cannstatter Volksfest, a two-week festival celebrating beer, food and funfair rides. Other important events are the Stuttgart Wine Festival and the Stuttgart Christmas Market.

Comparing Contrasts: Munich vs Stuttgart

Though both cities boast exceptional attractions and activities catering to diverse interests, their appeal lies in their distinct character. Munich offers a blend of rich traditions with modern metropolitan flair while retaining its Bavarian charm. Its bustling atmosphere attracts visitors seeking a lively scene with plenty of cultural, culinary, and social experiences.

On the other hand, Stuttgart is perfect for travellers seeking a more relaxed pace, nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills. The city’s compact nature makes it easier to explore its delightful mix of attractions from automotive history to beautiful parks.

Food and Drink

Bavarian delicacies vs swabian savouries.

When it comes to gastronomic experiences, both Munich and Stuttgart delight visitors with their regional culinary offerings. Munich, located in the heart of Bavaria, tempts taste buds with hearty dishes such as Weisswurst (white sausage), Schweinshaxe (roasted pork knuckle), and Leberkäse (meatloaf). Pair these traditional dishes with Bavarian beer while enjoying lively conversations in one of the city’s bustling beer gardens.

In contrast, Stuttgart showcases the flavors of Swabia, a region famed for its delicious comfort food. Indulge in Maultaschen – large ravioli-like pasta filled with minced meat or vegetables – and sink your teeth into savory Spätzle - Swabian egg noodles often served with cheese or accompanied by hearty meat dishes.

Must-try Restaurants & Dishes in Munich

Munich’s culinary scene features an array of enticing eateries, from cozy taverns to high-end establishments. Be sure to visit the Hofbräuhaus – the world-famous beer hall – where you can feast on succulent roast pork or crispy schnitzel while savoring a frothy stein of Munich’s finest brews.

For an upscale dining experience, Restaurant Ratskeller offers exquisite Bavarian cuisine amidst a splendid vaulted cellar setting. Don’t miss out on trying Obatzda - a creamy cheese spread appetizer traditionally enjoyed with pretzels.

Delectable Dining Destinations in Stuttgart

Stuttgart presents visitors an eclectic mix of time-honored eateries and innovative culinary hotspots. For a taste of traditional Swabian cuisine, head over to Weinstube Fröhlich where you can savor mouth-watering Maultaschen and Spätzle paired perfectly with local Württemberg wine.

If you’re in the mood for something contemporary, visit Cube Restaurant . Located atop Stuttgart’s art museum, it offers breathtaking city views and a modern twist on Swabian classics such as Rostbraten – succulent slices of beef served with crispy onions.

Munich’s Moonlit Merriment

Munich offers a diverse and lively nightlife scene to suit all tastes and preferences. The city boasts an abundance of lively bars, clubs and beer gardens where visitors can unwind after a day of sightseeing. Head to Schwabing, Munich's bohemian district, for a lively bar scene or the trendy Glockenbachviertel for hip clubs and stylish cocktail lounges.

If live music is your thing, Munich has you covered with venues like the Milla Club and Strom offering a range of performances from local talent to international acts.

Stuttgart’s Starry Soirees

Stuttgart's nightlife may be more subdued than Munich's exuberant scene, but there's no shortage of excitement or quality venues. The city centre is full of cosy wine bars, perfect for sipping Württemberg wines and chatting with friends. For travellers seeking upbeat dance floors, Stuttgart's club scene offers a range of options, from techno havens such as Climax Institutes to classy spots like Perkins Park .

Live music lovers will enjoy jazz clubs such as the BIX Jazzclub or the Theaterhaus Stuttgart , which hosts a variety of performances ranging from theatre to concerts.

Nightlife Nuances: Munich vs. Stuttgart

While both cities offer enticing nightlife experiences, their atmospheres are quite different. Munich is more lively and bustling, with energetic nightclubs, countless bars and lively beer gardens. Stuttgart, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with intimate wine bars and smaller clubs for those who prefer a quieter evening.

Ultimately, these two captivating cities cater to different nightlife preferences - it depends whether you prefer pulsating dance floors or laid-back lounge settings. Embrace Munich's energetic spirit or relax in Stuttgart's cosy establishments; either way, your nocturnal adventures are sure to be unforgettable!

Accommodation

Munich: from modest to magnificent.

Munich offers a diverse range of accommodation options suitable for every traveler’s needs and budget. Choose from hotels like the

• Bayerischer Hof - luxury hotel near city centre ( check availability )
• Platzl Hotel - centrally located four-star hotel ( check availability )
• Cocoon Stachus - a modern design hotel ( check availability )

Backpackers and budget-conscious travelers will find an array of cosy hostels in Munich:

• Wombat’s City Hostel ( check availability )
• Euro Youth Hostel ( check availability ).

There are also plenty of vacation rentals in the city – consider booking an apartment through websites like Vrbo for a more personalised experience.

Or check the Munich city centre options for the dates of your stay here:

Check accommodation options in other parts of Munich on our Where to Stay in Munich page .

Stuttgart: A Stay for Every Style

Stuttgart mirrors Munich in offering varied accommodation choices catering to different preferences. Treat yourself to a stay at:

• EmiLu Design Hotel - a boutique hotel ( check availability )
• Motel One Stuttgart-Hauptbahnhof - ( check availability )
• Park Inn by Radisson - ( check availability )

For a more wallet-friendly alternative, backpackers can choose from several welcoming hostels:

• Jugendherberge Stuttgart International ( check availability )
• Alex 30 Hostel ( check availability )

Vacation rentals are readily available in Stuttgart as well , allowing you the opportunity to immerse yourself in local living during your stay.

If you know when you are travelling you can check Stuttgart availability here by entering your preferred dates:

Comparing Comforts: Munich vs Stuttgart

Both Munich and Stuttgart present visitors with a wide spectrum of accommodations – luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and vacation rentals abound in each city. Highly-rated establishments cater to different price points ensuring that every visitor finds their ideal home-away-from-home while exploring these fascinating German cities.

While both Munich and Stuttgart offer diverse experiences for visitors, their distinct character and appeal make each city unique.

Munich captivates with its lively atmosphere, rich Bavarian heritage, busy beer gardens, world-class museums, and spirited nightlife. It’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking a lively cultural scene blended with traditional charm.

Stuttgart, on the other hand, exudes a more relaxed vibe nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills. With its intriguing mix of automobile history, architectural grandeur, Swabian cuisine, and intimate nightlife spots – it offers an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquillity combined with captivating attractions.

So which city should be your next German adventure? If you crave bustling excitement and want to immerse yourself in Bavarian traditions, Munich is calling your name. But if you are looking for a quiet getaway with beautiful scenery and cosy wine bars, Stuttgart will welcome you with open arms.

Ultimately, both cities promise unforgettable experiences steeped in culture, history, food and drink, as well as fantastic accommodation to suit all tastes. Whichever destination you choose - or even better, why not explore both of them - you can be sure that Germany's Munich and Stuttgart are waiting with open arms to charm you!

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Munich Accommodation

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