Nuremberg

Nürnberg

Bavaria's second-largest city, featuring a well-preserved medieval old town surrounded by city walls, an imposing castle, and famous Christmas markets. It's also historically significant as the site of post-WWII war crimes trials.

Things to do

• Kaiserburg Castle — Explore this imposing hilltop fortress overlooking the old town, featuring medieval fortifications, a deep well, and panoramic views of Nuremberg's red-roofed skyline.
• Nuremberg City Walls — Walk the 5-kilometer circuit of remarkably well-preserved medieval city walls punctuated by 80 towers and four main gates that encircle the Altstadt.
• Germanisches Nationalmuseum — Germany's largest museum of German culture and art, housing medieval religious works, Renaissance paintings, and archaeological treasures spanning from prehistory to the present.
• Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rallies — Visit this sobering museum built into the Congress Hall, the largest surviving Nazi structure, providing context on the regime's propaganda and Nuremberg's role in Nazi history.
• Christkindlesmarkt — Experience one of Germany's most famous Christmas markets running from late November through December, with wooden stalls selling ornaments, toys, and traditional Nuremberg sweets.
• St. Sebald Church — Admire this stunning Gothic basilica in the old town, featuring intricate stone carvings, stained glass, and the ornate brass shrine of St. Sebald, the city's patron saint.
• Albrecht Dürer House — Tour the beautifully preserved timber-framed home of the Renaissance master artist, featuring period furnishings and displaying original works and prints by Dürer.

Food to try

• Nürnberger Rostbratwurst — These thin, finger-sized grilled sausages made from pork, beef, and spices are Nuremberg's most famous specialty, traditionally served with sauerkraut and horseradish.
• Schäufele — A hearty Franconian roasted pork shoulder, typically served with potato salad or dumplings and a rich pan gravy in traditional beer halls.
• Nürnberger Lebkuchen — These soft gingerbread cookies with nuts, dried fruit, and spices have been produced in Nuremberg since the 15th century and are a protected regional specialty.
• Schäufele Sandwich — A casual street-food version of schäufele, featuring sliced roasted pork shoulder served in a crusty roll with broth for dipping.
• Feuerzangenbowle — A traditional flaming hot mulled wine punch made with red wine, spices, and a sugarloaf set ablaze, commonly served at winter markets.

Local customs & good to know

• Christmas Market Season is Peak Tourism — Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is one of Europe's largest and draws enormous crowds from November through December, so plan visits to major sights for morning hours or avoid December weekends.
• Respect Historical Sensitivity — While Nuremberg celebrates its medieval heritage, locals are thoughtful about their WWII past; approach discussions with sensitivity and visit memorials with appropriate respect.
• Beer Garden Culture Prevails — Bavarian beer culture is central to Nuremberg social life; expect beer gardens to be popular gathering spots and many restaurants to take beer pairing seriously.
• Learn About 'Drei in Weißbier' — A local tradition involves eating three Nürnberger Rostbratwurst while drinking a glass of Nuremberg beer, sometimes served in special beer halls as a ritual experience.