30 Fun Things to Do in Nuremberg
Read our guide on the best things to do in Nuremberg, Germany. The list includes top-rated activities for all kinds of visitors.
Nuremberg was one of the most captivating cities we visited on our Bavaria road trip.
The city center, nestled on the Pegnitz River, was wonderful, full of traditional architecture, picturesque bridges, lovely squares, and medieval churches
But that's not all.
Nuremberg played a major role during the Roman Holy Empire era and WW2, giving the city a unique feel and history.
As a result, there are plenty of things to see and do in Nuremberg for all kinds of travelers.
After our recent visit, we've put together a list of some of the best things to do in Nuremberg to help you prioritize top-rated attractions and maximize your time during your stay.
Take a Self-guided Tour at the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
There's no other way to start this list than with the iconic Imperial Castle of Nuremberg.
The 11th-century castle perched on top of a hill in the historical part of Nuremberg is among the most popular places you can visit within the city.
The combination of guided and self-guided tours allows you to learn more about the castle's history (and the whole Bavaria region) and see unique places such as the 47-meter deep well (Deepwell) and round tower (Sinwell Tower).
Memorium Nuremberg Trials
If you have only time for one museum, we recommend the Memorium Nuremberg Trials.
The most prominent Nazi leaders were trialed in Nuremberg after WW2 ended by the Allies at this very spot.
Today, the Nuremberg Trials are viewed as one of the closures to this dark European chapter.
The museum has an excellent exhibition on this topic packed with tons of information about everything slightly connected with the trials, plus it includes an entry to the original Courtroom 600, where the actual trials were held.
Even though it's not exactly easy to read about the WW2 war crimes of the Nazi regime, this museum should be on your list.
The museum is housed in the Palace of Justice, about three kilometers west of the city center.
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
Another museum every visitor to Nuremberg should visit is the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
The museum is located about four kilometers east of the city center and has information on the City of Nuremberg, its people, the nearby Rally Grounds, and much more.
The museum was undergoing renovations when we were there but still provided an excellent experience for all history buffs.
The museum is housed in one of the Kongresshalle wings, and there is a small admission fee.
Learn the History Behind the Nazi Party Rally Grounds
Nazi Party Rally Grounds was a large complex in east Nuremberg that served as one of the centers for Nationals Socialists during the 1930s and 1940s.
The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds museum offers a great way to learn more about this area.
If you're interested in WW2 history more, you can explore this area on foot.
There's an educational trail with more than 20 information panels that will take you past some of the most prominent monuments and megalomaniacal projects that were built or planned to be built here.
You get a chance to see Zeppelintribune, Große Straße, Kongresshalle, and other sites.
See the World's Oldest Globe
Nuremberg is home to Behaim Globe, the world's oldest globe.
One of the most interesting facts about Behaim Globe is that there are no Americas on it.
As you see, Martin Behaim finished it in 1492, the year marking the Christopher Columbus landing in the Bahamas.
So North America and South America are simply not there, just a vast blue color of the ocean.
As this is quite unique, Behaim Globe is part of UNESCO World Document Heritage.
The World's Oldest Globe is housed in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, about which we're going to talk in a second.
Visit the Germanisches Nationalmuseum
Apart from the Behaim Globe, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum is home to a massive collection of items, artifacts, art, and displays ranging from the Stone Age to medieval paintings and modern-day art.
If you want to learn more about German history, culture, or art, this museum should be on your list.
We don't need to mention that places like the Germanisches Nationalmuseum are ideal to visit on one of those gloomy rainy days.
The museum that is located near Opernhaus is quite large, and you can easily spend several hours there.
Visit Deutsches Museum Nurnberg
Deutsches Museum Nurnberg - Das Zukunftsmuseum is a modern museum just a short walk from the Hauptmarkt.
It covers various topics of past, present, and future, including work and daily life, body and mind, city system, space and time, etc.
While the museum is not as big as the Deutsches Museum in Munich, it's still pretty interesting and has a lot to offer to both adults and children.
As it raises some interesting questions and thoughts, this is arguably the best museum in Nuremberg for families with kids who have curious minds.
Walk along the Pegnitz River
We've already established that Nuremberg is a beautiful city. At least, that's what we think about its historical part.
One of the big reasons is the combination of picturesque architecture and the Pegnitz River.
So it won't come as a surprise when we say that one of our favorite things to do in Nuremberg was simply strolling along the Pegnitz River, which is gently making its way through the city center.
The Altstadt has a charming bridge network, cute channels, waterside promenades, and even small islands.
Interestingly enough, wandering around this area felt more intimate than in much smaller Wurzburg.
And all that thanks to the beautiful Pegnitz River.
Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)
Despite having some basic knowledge about Nuremberg (like it's close to Czechia, one of the Nazi regime symbols, Nuremberg Trials, etc.), we had only a hazy understanding of what the city actually looked like.
So once we got there, we were both surprised at how picturesque and charming the historical part of the city really is.
Hands down, the best way to explore Nuremberg's Altstadt is on foot, which is only logical given the size of the area.
So, make sure you have comfortable shoes, don't forget to bring your camera with you, and have fun exploring this Bavarian gem.
Enjoy the views from Pilatushaus
This 15th-century (1489) house sitting in the upper corner of Tiergartnertorplatz was one of the hidden gems we found when wandering around Nuremberg.
Interestingly enough, there is not much to see inside apart from a small exhibition.
Right now, it's the historical importance and the views from the top floor (there are seven floors) that make this building so interesting.
At the time of our visit, Pilatushaus was free to enter, though a small donation was appreciated.
Find the Durer-Hase Skulptur (Hare Sculpture)
We stumbled upon this bizarre-looking statue by accident. Well, not entirely, as it's located in a popular spot.
At first, I had no idea what this entrancing statue really was.
So, after a short discussion and with a bit of Googling, we were able to tell that it was a rabbit!
It was created by Goertz in 1984 as a tribute to Albrecht Durer, a famous Bavarian painter who lived nearby.
The sculpture was inspired by Durer's Feldhase (Young Hare), whose realism is in striking contrast with its modern version.
The whole square was buzzing with life when we were there, and it was not easy to take a photo of this little gem.
By the way, if you're pressed for time or not in the mood to get lost, just head to the square at Tiergartnertor, where you will find it.
Tour the Albrecht Durer's House
If you're into art, Albrecht Durer's House is a must-do.
Born in Nuremberg in 1471 (he also died here in 1528), Albrecht Durer was one of the greatest and most influential artists of the German Renaissance, mostly known for his stunning woodcut prints.
Some of his most famous artworks include Praying Hands, Young Hare, Great Piece of Turf, and Adam and Eve.
This beautiful house, which was Durer's home for more than 20 years, was transformed in the late 19th century into a museum that features great information on his life and work.
The museum has exhibits on Durer's life, his wife Agnes (the guided tour has an actress that plays Agnes), and the history of the timber house.
It also includes some of the famous Durer's paintings (albeit copies).
Take a Nuremberg City Guided Tour
Nuremberg is one of those destinations you can easily explore on your own. We can only say that the city is tourist-friendly and we were able to easily see all the main sights without a guide.
But if you're pressed for time (or any other reason), consider taking a guided tour.
This popular Nuremberg Guided Tour helps you maximize your time in the city while offering a comfortable way to see the main attractions with a knowledgeable guide.
Take a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Hop-on Hop-off bus provides another great way to see Nuremberg, especially if you're not in the mood for too much walking.
One of the best parts about the Nuremberg Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is that it includes even Justizpalast (Memorium Nuremberg Trials) and Kongresshalle (Nazi Party Rally Grounds), which are located further from the city center.
Obviously, this tour also includes all the essential stops the Old Town offers, such as Hauptmarkt, Kaiserburg, etc.
Hop on the Board of the Bimmelbahn Train
This well-rated sightseeing tour is not exactly our cup of tea, but it's extremely popular, and many visitors find it great.
The tour is fairly short, as it takes about 40 minutes, but provides a great overview of most of Nuremberg's top attractions.
You get an audio guide (English is available) that informs you about the most iconic places the city has to offer in an entertaining way.
One of the main advantages of the Bimmelbahn Train Tour is that it gives you a basic overview of the city layout, so you will have an easier time exploring the town afterward.
Explore the St. Lorenz Church
Nuremberg is home to many churches worth exploring, with St. Lorenz Church being probably the most famous one.
This stunning medieval church with a pair of matching spires dedicated to Saint Lawrence is one of the most prominent structures in Lorenzer Platz.
It's hard to miss as it's on Konigstrase, the main street that connects Museumsbrucke with the Hauptbahnhof.
The church, which was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, shared a fate similar to many buildings in the Altstadt.
It was severely damaged during the WW2 air raids but was beautifully restored later.
The church is only a stone's throw from Lorenzkirche subway station.
Watch a Sunset from the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, with its city walls, is definitely one of the best sunset spots in Nuremberg.
In one of our previous posts, we already mentioned that the whole experience reminded us of Prague Castle, one of our favorite spots back home.
You get to see Nuremberg in its full glory (the city with a population exceeding 500.000) and enjoy some of the most magical moments of the day here.
Just be prepared that you won't have this spot for yourself.
By the way, the hike to Nuremberg Castle is fairly easy, so it's suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
Stay in Nuremberg Overnight
Speaking of the sunsets, why don't you spend a night in Nuremberg? Not just for the sunset, though, as there is so much to see and do in Nuremberg that one day might not be enough.
It's true that the city center is fairly compact and walkable, but the sheer amount of history you can find in Nuremberg can be too much for a short trip.
You can spend hours and hours at Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and Memorium Nuremberg Trials, and that's just two of the three must-see museums the city has to offer (the other is Germanisches Nationalmuseum).
Then there is the Imperial Castle and the Altstadt, as well as tons of other places you should explore.
So, if you've found our arguments compelling and want to know more, here we've compiled the list of the best hotels in Nuremberg.
The list includes well-rated hotels such as popular Leonardo Royal Hotel, modern Scandic Central, or affordable Park Inn.
Walk through Handwerkerhof
If you like tourist stuff, this small medieval village is a place you should not miss.
It's basically a shopping area filled with small stores selling everything from traditional crafts to souvenirs. It also has several cute cafes and pubs serving local food.
It's touristy but might be worth a quick look.
Handwerkerhof can be found at the southeast edge of the walled city, just across the road from the Hauptbahnhof (main train station).
See the Beautiful Fountain
The Schoner Brunnen translates into the Beautiful Fountain in English.
This 14th-century fountain that dominates the northwest corner of Hauptmarkt, the main square in Nuremberg's Old Town, is truly stunning.
It's not a typical fountain, mostly because there was no water in the basin, at least when we were there.
On top of that, it's surrounded by an iron fence that sort of blocks the view and makes it less beautiful.
Still, the 19-meter ornate Gothic spire is one of the most impressive examples of medieval architecture you can find in Nuremberg.
By the way, the legend says that your wish will come true if you spin the golden ring three times.
See the Nuremberg Opera House
Without any doubt, the Nuremberg Opera House, with its Art Nouveau style, is one of the most beautiful buildings outside the Old Town.
While the Opera House is worth seeing from outside, attending an event is way more rewarding.
Obviously, not everyone has time to see opera here, but it might be a great tip for those who want to experience a bit more of European culture.
For all music lovers, this is one of the must-dos in Nuremberg.
Walk the Way of Human Rights
Way of Human Rights is a public work of art in the walled city, symbolizing Nuremberg's effort to deal with its Nazi past.
The monument, created by Israeli artist Dani Karavan, consists of a huge white gate, 27 round pillars, two bottom panels, and an oak tree with engravings of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (in various languages).
It's located right in front of the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which we've already included on this list.
What we really liked about the author's idea is that his work doesn't tell you directly what you should think but rather leaves you to ponder what human rights mean to you.
Explore the DB Museum
If you like trains, the next stop on your Nuremberg itinerary should be the DB Museum.
The museum houses a nice collection of trains, locomotives, and rail vehicles, including a stunning train of King Ludwig II (founder of places like Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace), the torso of the famous Flying Hamburger, and a red-shaded Class 05 locomotive.
While the museum is for all ages, it's definitely among the most family-friendly activities in Nuremberg.
Plus, it offers a family tour that helps you to have a stress-free visit.
The only downside is that many panels were not translated into English (so it might be worth it to download a free audio guide).
Visit the City Museum at Fembo House
Fembo-Haus is housed in a late-Renaisance merchant's house on the Burgstrasse.
The museum has well-preserved original rooms and contains plenty of information on Nuremberg's history, the city that was founded in 1050.
During your visit, you will get a chance to learn more about the evolution of an important medieval town into a modern city, the third largest in Bavaria (Munich and Augsburg are larger).
Apart from the interesting interiors (ornate woodwork, plastered ceilings, etc.), the museum has a detailed exhibition dedicated to the destruction of Nuremberg city during WW2.
Discover the Medieval Dungeons
Nuremberg's Old Town House (Nurnberger Rathaus) is an imposing building that definitely caught our eye when we were passing by.
It's definitely worth a quick photo stop.
What's not so obvious about this building is that it has vaulted cellars that can be explored with a Nuremberg Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour.
The damp and cold dungeons below the Rathaus were used as holding cells and torture chambers during medieval times.
Today, this little museum tells a story of what happened to those who ended up there and everything that was connected to this facility.
Nuremberg Old Town House is located only a short walk north of the Hauptmarkt.
Explore the Hauptmarkt
Hauptmarkt is a traditional market square in the heart of Nuremberg's Altstadt.
This fairly large square is home to several beautiful buildings, a medieval Frauenkirche church, and Schoner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain).
There's always something going on here, and as the square is en route to the Imperial Castle, it's definitely worth seeing.
If you're a fan of local markets, it's worth visiting the Hauptmarkt during the Christmas Markets.
Visit the Nuremberg Christmas Market
We visited Nuremberg during the spring and couldn't ask for better weather.
With little crowds and great weather, this was an ideal time to visit the city.
However, if you arrive in Nuremberg during the winter, the days might be cold and short, but you get the chance to visit the Christmas Markets.
From our annual experience with Prague Christmas Markets, we find this event overly touristy.
On the other hand, the markets are lively and add to the otherwise bit bland atmosphere of the winter months.
Discover the Bridges of Nuremberg
We knew you could find Little Venice in Bamberg, but we were quite surprised at how many cute bridges Nuremberg has.
They come in various shapes and offer such a fun way to explore the area along the Pegnitz River in the heart of Nuremberg.
Maxbrucke is a traditional bridge that is not that different from the Steinerne Brucke we saw in Regensburg the day before.
Kettensteg is a cute suspension bridge that is only for pedestrians and has replaced a traditional wooden structure that has served for centuries.
The Henkersted (a.k.a Hangman's Bridge) is probably the most photogenic bridge in the whole of Nuremberg.
It reminded us of the wooden structures (rechle) we have in Cesky Krumlov.
Then you have the Fleischbrucke (Meat Bridge), Museumsbrucke (Museum Bridge), and others.
Enjoy the Architecture of Neues Museum
Neues Museum is one of those places that's worth seeing even if you don't want to go inside.
The modern shapes are strikingly contrasting with the traditional architecture surrounding the building.
Obviously, the building is home to a modern art gallery with works, designs, and installations of German artists.
There is a small admission fee.
The only downside was that many of the exhibitions were in German, which didn't help to understand some of the words.
Stroll through the Weissgerbergasse
Connecting Maxplatz with Weinmarkt, the well-preserved Weissgerbergasse is considered to be the most beautiful street in Nuremberg.
While it's relatively short, the cobblestone street is lined with houses with traditional Bavarian architecture, making it one of the most photographed places in the city.
There are a few small shops and restaurants that might convince you to stay longer and enjoy the different colors and medieval architecture of half-timbered houses.
Overall, it's a great photo stop that reminded us of Plonlein in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
