Featuring glorious medieval architecture, a meandering river crisscrossed with historic bridges and a clutch of excellent museums, Nuremberg is a superb addition to any Germany itinerary. The Altstadt (Old Town) is small and friendly with characterful restaurants serving generous portions of hearty Franconian food.
It’s one of my favourite German cities.
Make the most of a day in Nuremberg Old Town with my tried and tested itinerary. I’ve included a map you can use as a Nuremberg self-guided walking tour and my favourite places to stay and eat.
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What is Nuremberg Famous for?
Bavaria’s second-biggest city is home to magnificent medieval buildings, a thousand-year-old castle and Germany’s tiniest bratwurst. Nuremberg is also the setting for one of the country’s biggest and best Christmas markets.
But this former stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire is perhaps best known for its dark Nazi past, as the city where Hitler liked to throw a party.
How Many Days Do You Need in Nuremberg?
You can hit the highlights of the Old Town in one day. But ideally, you should plan at least two days in Nuremberg, especially if you are planning to visit the World War II sites outside the Altstadt.
I stayed here for five nights, which allowed me to take day trips by train from Nuremberg to Bamberg and Rothenburg.
My Suggested 1-Day Nuremberg Old Town Itinerary
Exploring the best of Old Town Nuremberg in one day is a breeze. The main sights in town are conveniently located on and around Königstrasse, the main thoroughfare that connects the medieval Königstor gate with the castle.
If you are a day-tripper, Nuremberg train station is opposite the Königstor gate. Just follow the signs for Altstadt from the railway station.
Nuremberg is a very walkable city. Unless you plan to visit the World War II sites (more about those later), navigating the city on foot is your best bet.
My Nuremberg itinerary starts at the Königstor gate and slowly works its way north to the castle, taking in the Old Town’s highlights along the way. From here, it loops back south past Nuremberg’s prettiest street and most beautiful bridges.
If you like to map it out, here’s one that I prepared earlier which you can use as a Nuremberg self-guided walking tour. It covers a distance of approximately two miles (3km). For step-by-step directions and to send to your phone, click here or on the image.
1. Enter Nuremberg Old Town through Königstor
Considering the pummelling Nuremberg received during the Second World War, it’s remarkable that 90 per cent of the three miles of medieval walls that enclosed the city survive. Königstor is one of the four main entrances to Nürnberg Altstadt and is guarded by a sandstone tower (Königstorturm)
Before you start your day in Nuremberg, stop by the Tourist Information opposite Königstor gate to pick up a free map and for other information.
2. Shop for souvenirs in the Craftsmen’s Courtyard (Handwerkerhof)
On the other side of Königstor is a collection of half-timbered houses, built in 1971 to celebrate the 500th birthday of Albrecht Dürer, Nuremberg’s favourite son. Originally a holding area for carriages waiting to enter the city, Handwerkerhof now houses replicas of medieval shops selling pottery, leather goods and brassware.
It is kitsch, but the wares are of good quality and there are also a few cafes.
Exiting Handwerkerhof with your back to the train station, you will hit Königstrasse, Nuremberg Old Town’s main drag.
3. Decompress in Nuremberg’s Churches
There is a clutch of fine churches in Nuremberg Old Town, five of which I recommend that you take a look at. The first two of these are early in your self-guided walking tour of Nuremberg.
All of Nuremberg’s churches are free to visit, although a small donation is encouraged.
St. Clara (St. Klara)
Enclosed in a 13th Century building, the interior of the Church of the Poor Clares is surprisingly minimalist and modern. It’s an intimate and peaceful space and its rear door leads to a small cloister.
St. Lawrence Church (Lorenzkirche)
By contrast, the Catholic-turned-Protestant church of St. Lawrence is enormous.
Work started on this monumental Gothic church in 1250 and it was completed and enlarged in the 15th Century. It suffered heavy damage during WWII and was partly rebuilt in 1952.
St. Lawrence’s twin towers flanking the church’s elaborately decorated portal pierce the sky over the Altstadt. Inside, I was struck by its space, light and sheer beauty.
Lorenzkirche has two artistic treasures that you cannot miss.
Suspended over the altar is Veit Stoß’s Annunciation (1517). Stoß was a Nuremberg native and one of Central Europe’s best woodcarvers.
As the angel Gabriel tells Mary that she will be giving birth to the Messiah, she drops her prayer book in surprise. Who wouldn’t?
To the left of the altar is Adam Kraft’s intricately carved tabernacle (1496). The theme is the Passion of the Christ and, with the exception of the wooden Jesus, everything is carved out of stone.
Take a look at the man bearing the tabernacle on his shoulders. This is a self-portrait of Adam Kraft, chisel in hand.
Above the likeness of the artist is St. Lawrence, holding the grill on which he was barbequed alive. This was his grisly punishment for giving treasures to the poor instead of a greedy Roman official.
Legend has it that his last words were “I’m done on this side. Turn me over”.
4. Identify the virtues of the Tugendbrunnen
You can’t miss the castle-like building opposite the church. Dating from 1200, this is Nuremberg’s sole surviving tower house, built as a fortified home in the days before the city had a wall.
Continue downhill to the wonderful late Renaissance fountain. The Fountain of Virtue (Tugendbrunnen) depicts female allegories of the seven classic virtues: Faith, Hope, Love, Hope, Courage, Moderation, Patience and Justice.
Are you able to identify them? In keeping with the humanist values of Renaissance art, with the exception of Faith’s cross, the fountain is free from religious symbolism.
5. Photograph the Holy Ghost Hospital (Heilig-Geist-Spital)
The next stop on our Nuremberg self-guided walking tour is one of the most photographed landmarks of the Altstadt.
Spanning the Pegnitz River, the scenic Holy Ghost Hospital was donated to the city in the 14th Century by Nuremberg’s wealthiest resident. The deal was that in return for helping the city’s ill, disabled and elderly citizens, he would receive his reward in heaven.
This is a good place to break for a coffee. There are a few cafes in the covered arcade between this bridge, Museumsbrücke, and Fleischbrücke to the west.
6. Take a look at a fountain that’s not a fountain
When is a fountain not a fountain? When it has never been fed with water.
Such is the case with Nuremberg’s Narrenschiffbrunnen. The plan for this bronze sculpture to be completed as a fountain fell apart when the water supply system was not properly installed.
Depicting characters from a 15th-century satire called The Ship of Fools by Sebastian Brant, Narrenschiffbrunnen uses a boat as a metaphor for an endangered world. Occupying this boat are Adam and Eve being expelled from Paradise, Cain and Abel and scenes from Brant’s poem.
7. Step inside the Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche)
Just beyond Narrenschiffbrunnen is Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg’s main market square. Built by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV (he of the Charles Bridge in Prague), this became the centre of the new city formed by the union of two distinct walled towns in the 13th Century.
The square’s main landmark is Frauenkirche, which was built on the site of a former synagogue.
Sadly, anti-Semitism didn’t begin with the Nazis. When these two towns merged, the quarter that was occupied by the Jewish population was valuable. Charles IV turned a blind eye to the forced eviction of the Jews, which resulted in the death of 562 people.
8. Make a wish at the Beautiful Fountain (Schöner Brunnen)
Although the fountain that we see today is a copy of one from the 14th Century, it lives up to its name. But Schöner Brunnen was more than just a decorative feature of Hauptmarkt.
Back in the day, the tanneries, slaughterhouse and the Holy Ghost Hospital dumped their waste into the river. Schöner Brunnen was erected to provide medieval Nürnbergers with clean drinking water.
It’s said that if you spin the gold ring on the fountain’s lattice three times, your wishes will be fulfilled. Go on. Give it a go.
LUNCH STOP AT SCHWARZ BAKERY
Although there are plenty of grilled sausage vendors in Nuremberg Old Town, connoisseurs head to Schwarz Bakery, one block from Hauptmarkt.
This place has been around for the best part of one hundred years and will serve you the sausage of your dreams. The city is famous for its miniature bratwurst, called, like a city resident, a “Nürnberger.” You choose how many of these little sausages you want with your dark bread (three is a good number for a lunchtime snack).
9. Visit Nuremberg’s oldest parish church
Work started on St. Sebald in 1290 and was completed in 1490 with the erection of its twin towers. This is the most Gothic of Nuremberg’s churches.
Amongst its artistic treasures is stained glass by Albrecht Dürer and a sculpture by Adam Kraft.
10. Take in the view from the Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg) and Burggarten
This was where the Holy Roman Emperors stayed when they were in town. Although it’s a massive complex, just a few buildings are open to the public.
Whilst you have to pay to visit the castle (I didn’t), it’s free to wander around its grounds and take in the views over Nuremberg Old Town.
Don’t miss the castle garden (Burggarten). It’s a chilled spot and offers further fine views.
11. Stop for a drink in Tiergärtnertorplatz
In the shadow of Tiergärtnertor, another of Nuremberg’s city gates, is the lovely Tiergärtnertorplatz. It’s a busy place to stop for a drink any time of day but really comes to life on summer evenings.
Take a look at the sculpture of a giant rabbit near the top of the square. This is a modern take on The Hare, one of the most famous paintings by Albrecht Dürer (the artwork is in Vienna).
12. See where Albrecht Durer lived
Dürer, a contemporary of Michelangelo, lived in a house on Tiergärtnertorplatz for the last 20 years of his life. His house has been turned into a museum, but nothing inside is original. I skipped it for this reason.
13. Stroll along the prettiest street in Nuremberg Old Town
If you need further evidence of Nuremberg’s medieval prosperity, walk along Weissgerbergasse (“Tanners’ Lane”).
This narrow street is lined with the Altstadt’s finest collection of surviving half-timbered houses, which are several stories high. Today, these former merchants’ houses are home to restaurants and bars.
14. See where the city executioner once lived
Between the 16th and 19th Centuries, every German town had an executioner. As his job was considered to be dishonest, he was shunned by his fellow citizens and was forced to reside away from everyone else.
In Nuremberg, the executioner lived in the tower and covered walkway above Henkersteg, the so-called Hangman’s Bridge.
The current bridge was reconstructed in 1954 and is one of the best photo spots in Nuremberg Old Town.
Spend a few minutes taking in the view from Maxbrücke – the oldest stone bridge straddling the Pegnitz River – over to the Chain Bridge (Kettensteg). Built in 1824, this pedestrian chain bridge is the oldest of its kind in Europe.
15. Marvel at the dome of St. Elisabeth Church
For me, this Catholic church is one of Nuremberg Old Town’s gems.
This Neoclassical church, once the chapel of the Hospital of the Order of Teutonic Knights, doesn’t look like much from the outside. But step inside to view its gravity-defying 50-meter dome.
Opposite St. Elisabeth is another of Nuremberg Old Town’s churches, St. Jakob, also used by the Knights of the Teutonic Order.
Where to eat in Nuremberg
If you are looking for somewhere to eat in Nuremberg, here are a few places that I tried and liked.
Schnitzel washed down with local beer with a view of St Sebald is hard to beat. Goldenes Posthorn has existed since at least 1498 and Richard Wagner wrote part of his opera Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg here.
Address: Glöckleinsgasse 2, 90403 Nürnberg
Address: Flea Market 30, 90403 Nuremberg
I feasted on the Franconian speciality Schäufelein in this cosy tavern. Service was excellent.
Address: Königstraße 41, 90402 Nürnberg
If you want a break from sausage and schnitzel, try this friendly Japanese restaurant on Königstrasse. Good quality food at reasonable prices.
Eating out alone is one of the things that solo travellers don’t relish and it pains me to report that I had one of my worst experiences as a solo diner in Nuremberg.
Kokoro is a popular Japanese restaurant with an appealing terrace next to the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. I was outraged to be told that, as a table of one, I had to finish my meal within one hour.
When I challenged the hostess, by way of mitigation she explained that this only applied on weekends to allow “other diners the chance to eat here.” This type of discrimination is never acceptable.
If You Have 2 Days in Nuremberg (or more)
If you have more than one day in Nuremberg or wish to squeeze more into your time there, here are a few suggestions for things to do.
16. Germanic National Museum (Germanisches Nationalmuseum)
This world-class museum dedicated to the cultural history of the German-speaking world is my top choice if you are looking to squeeze in anoither Nuremberg attraction. Occupying an interconnected maze of old and new buildings, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum takes you on a chronological journey from early history to the 20th Century, via the Middle Ages and Renaissance Baroque Enlightenment.
The museum’s entry hall is dominated by Haupstadt (1993–94) by Raffael Rheinsberg. This is a display of street signs from East Germany, enhanced with politically motivated graffiti.
Other highlights include Germania by Phillip Veit, portraits of Martin Luther, The Nuremberg Madonna, the Behaim Globe and a few paintings by Dürer.
Address: Kartäusergasse 1, 90402 Nürnberg
Opening hours: Check opening hours here.
Admission fee applies.
An excellent audio guide is available for a small extra fee (photo ID required). Bags need to be left in free lockers.
17. Historischer Kunstbunker WWII Art Bunker Tour
I wanted to join one of these tours but had to sacrifice it to the altar of time.
The vast tunnel complex under Nuremberg Castle provided shelter for precious artworks during the bombing raids of WW2. The only way to visit these sandstone caverns is on a guided tour but it is an excellent way to learn more about an important part of Nuremberg’s history.
>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK
18. Nuremberg City Museum
This museum was recommended by my hotel but I couldn’t fit it into my visit.
The City Museum is in Fembo House, Nuremberg’s only surviving large Late Renaissance merchant’s house and presents nearly a millennium of the city’s history.
More information including opening hours here.
19. Neues Museum
The city’s contemporary art museum occupies a glass building near the train station. Fine art and design from the 1950s until the present day are displayed across its two floors.
More information including opening hours here.
20. DB Railway Museum
This is one for you if you are a railway enthusiast. Located just outside the city walls, the DB Museum is now the world’s oldest railway museum.
The reviews are excellent. More information including opening hours here.
21. Toy Museum (Speilzeugmuseum)
Finally, here’s somewhere to visit in Nuremberg for the young or young at heart. It’s a nostalgic journey that starts with traditional wooden toys and finishes with branded playthings.
More information including opening hours here.
Visiting Nuremberg WW2 Sites in 2024
At another time, I would have said that visiting the Nazi Documentation Centre, a museum that seeks to understand the rise of the Nazi movement, is essential. However, in 2024 the museum is in the throes of extensive remodelling and the interim exhibition is a pale shadow of its former self.
Even though I did visit, I question if it was worth the journey from Nuremberg Old Town.
Although you can visit the famous Nuremberg Rally Grounds, again, work is underway to create a new visitor experience.
If the WW2 sites are your main reason for stopping in Nuremberg, I recommend delaying your visit until these works are complete. You can find updated information here.
Guided Tours of Old Town Nuremberg
If you want someone else to take care of the arrangements or want to benefit from the knowledge of a local guide, why not join a tour of Nuremberg? If you are a solo traveller, a day tour can be also an excellent way to meet other travellers.
Here are a few options to consider:
Nuremberg Old Town Guided Walking Tour | BOOK HERE
Hit the highlights of Nuremberg Old Town in 90 minutes with a local guide
Nuremberg Old Town – Private Guided Walking Tour | BOOK HERE
For a more personal experience splash more cash on a private walking tour
Nuremberg Sightseeing Train Tour | BOOK HERE
Take a ride on the hokey red choo-choo that trundles its way through the Altstadt to the accompaniment of an audio guide
Getting There
There are fast and frequent rail connections to Nuremberg’s stately Hauptbahnhof from Munich (1 hour), Bamberg (30 mins) and Frankfurt (2h 20 mins) It took me less than four hours to travel by train from Cologne.
Check train times here.
Its mid-sized airport, located three miles north of the city centre, serves flights from Europe and North Africa. However, there will be more choice of flights to the larger Munich or Frankfurt airports.
Where I Stayed in Nuremberg
Splurge – Hotel Drei Raben
The Drei Raben ranks amongst the best hotels in which I have stayed.
This stylish and friendly boutique hotel is centrally located on Königstrasse, and its complimentary evening wine tasting is a wonderful bonus. Ralf and Markus are on hand for chats and excellent local suggestions.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK
Here are some other places to stay that may suit other tastes and budgets:
Mid-range – Melter Hotel & Apartments
Also located on Königstrasse, this 4-star property offers a choice of rooms and apartments, perfect if you are looking for self-catering accommodation in Nuremberg. The hotel also provides free access to a washing machine.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK
Mid-range – Art & Business Hotel
This family-run hotel located close to the Hauptbahnhof offers prized single rooms for solo travellers and reviews are good.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK
Solo Travel in Nuremberg
Germany is one of the best places in Europe to travel alone.
It is a safe country for solo female travellers and Nuremberg is one of its safest cities. There are plenty of things for the solo traveller to do in Nuremberg, and as its main sights are within close proximity to each other it is very walkable.
As with any big city, one of the keys to keeping safe as a solo traveller is to use your common sense. Stay vigilant, stick to busy areas, keep your belongings close to you and use your hotel safe to store valuables.
Where to Next?
I hope my guide helps you nail the best things to see in Nuremberg Old Town and that you have a fabulous day there. If you are looking for other beautiful Bavarian towns to visit, take a look at some of my other articles:
- Top 10 Reasons to Visit Bamberg, Germany
- One Day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber: 10 Magical Things to Do
- 6 Magical Day Trips from Nuremberg by Train
- One Day in Würzburg: Exploring the Heart of Franconia
- Visiting the Würzburg Residence: A Baroque Beauty
- Top 10 Things to Do in Passau: Bavaria’s Venice
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.