Bavaria’s second-largest city, Nuremberg, often goes overlooked by many visitors to Germany. And that’s a real shame. Given the history here alone – Nuremberg was the Holy Roman Empire’s unofficial capital for centuries, and much of the city’s Alstadt (Old City) pre-war architecture has survived – you’d think more people would seek out this gorgeous gem of a town.
The Nuremberg Castle
The Nuremberg Castle, or Kaiserburg, an 11th-century complex boasts a lovely courtyard, a 50-foot-deep sandstone well, royal gardens, and an observation deck offering stunning views of the city.
The castle is perched on the edge of the walled Alstadt, so after exploring the grounds, walk the walls around the city, or at least wander these charming streets and see the quaint half-timbered houses that survived the Allied bombing.
Explore!
A stroll along the Weiβgerbergasse (say that ten times fast!) will not only reveal restored tanner workshops and Roccoco and Baroque-era additions to the half-timbered buildings; you’ll also find plenty of options to take a break with a kaffee or a meal in the plentiful restaurants and cafes. This area also has excellent lodging options right amid the Old Town historical sites.
The Past
Nuremberg is perhaps most famous for connections to World War II and the Nazi party, which held its infamous mass rallies here. There are several important monuments to the devastation of World War II today, including the Nuremberg Documentation Center, the former Congress Hall of the Nazi Party, and the Nuremberg Trials Memorial.
Wander
Lightening the mood a bit, be sure to visit the Albrecht Durer House, the former home of one of Germany’s famed Renaissance painters dating back to 1528. Also, check out the Hauptmarkt, the main market square, and the 13th-century St. Lorenz Church, as well as Gothic-era St. Sebaldus Church, famed for its two distinct halves, built 100 years apart.
Day Trips
Great day trips from Nuremberg abound, including charming UNESCO-recognized Bamburg, with its medieval charm and Baroque architecture. And don’t miss Weltenburg Abbey, a beautifully preserved, circa 600 AD monastery perched on a bend in the Danube River. Rent a car, hop on the famous Autobahn and check out the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle. It’s a beautiful drive, and the castle and small town surrounding it are worth the trip. Escorted tours from Nuremberg are also available.
The best time for travel to Nuremberg falls between May through the first weeks of September. In summer, you’ll encounter high temps in the low 70s, and in the shoulder months, expect it to be in the high 50s and 60s. Christmas time fills the squares with Christmas Markets and beautifully decorated towns. It is a little cold but worth the trip. Give us a call when you are ready to visit Nuremberg, we’ll help you plan the perfect trip!
