A medieval city with Gothic churches and a Nazi rally site. Home to Germany's famous Christmas market and its namesake sausage. Rich in history and modern culture.
Nuremberg, a city in Bavaria, Germany, is rich with history and culture. You can explore the medieval Old Town, climb the Imperial Castle, and visit museums like the Germanic National Museum. The city's past includes significant periods from the Holy Roman Empire to the Nazi era. As you walk through Nuremberg, you'll see Gothic churches, taste local bratwurst, and, if you visit in December, experience one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.
Exploring Nuremberg's Old Town
Nuremberg's Altstadt (Old Town) sits within the old city walls, much of which remain standing. As you walk the cobblestone streets, you'll see restored half-timbered houses and red-roofed buildings made of local sandstone. The Hauptmarkt (main square) forms the center of the Old Town, where a daily market has taken place for centuries. Here you'll find the Schöner Brunnen, a 14th-century fountain decorated with figures. Local legend says spinning its golden ring brings good luck.
Climb to Nuremberg Castle
Nuremberg Castle sits on a sandstone hill overlooking the city and was once an important stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire. You can tour the castle's living quarters, climb the Sinwell Tower for views of the city, and descend into the Deep Well, cut 50 meters into the rock below. The castle gardens provide a calm spot to rest and look out over the Old Town's red rooftops.
Uncover History at the Nazi Rally Grounds
Outside the Old Town, you'll find a reminder of Nuremberg's role in the Nazi era. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is located in part of the unfinished Congress Hall, where Hitler planned to hold party rallies. The museum uses exhibits and multimedia presentations to examine the causes and consequences of Nazi rule. You can also walk around the grounds to see remnants of the massive structures Hitler and his architects planned.
Explore Nuremberg's Museums
The Germanic National Museum is Germany's largest museum of cultural history. Its collection spans from prehistoric times to the present day, including works by Albrecht Dürer and the world's oldest surviving globe. For a different experience, visit the Toy Museum to see playthings from the Middle Ages to modern times, reflecting Nuremberg's long history as a center of toy production.
Sample Nuremberg's Culinary Specialties
Nuremberg is known for its bratwurst. These small, finger-sized sausages are typically grilled over beechwood and served three to a roll ("Drei im Weggla"). For dessert, try Nuremberg Lebkuchen, a type of soft gingerbread that's especially popular during the Christmas season. You can find both specialties at restaurants throughout the Old Town or at the Hauptmarkt.
Visit the Christkindlesmarkt
If you're in Nuremberg in December, you can experience the Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. The main square fills with hundreds of stalls selling ornaments, toys, and seasonal treats. You can drink hot mulled wine as you browse handcrafted gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
