Top 10 Things to Do in Nuremberg: It's Dark History and Beyond

Nuremberg is a city full of contrasts. Here, you will find the towering towers of the Imperial Castle, which stand guard over the rooftops of Nuremberg’s Old Town. The narrow cobblestone streets carry the trail of history (and often of freshly grilled bratwurst too). And there is a part to it that once stood as the “city of the Reich Party Rallies” in the darkest chapters of German history.

Anyone strolling through Nuremberg quickly senses that nothing remains hidden here. The past is visible everywhere, but modern life pulsates too – in cafés, at festivals, in art studios. And it is precisely this blend that makes Nuremberg so special and one of the most fascinating cities to visit in Germany.

Good To Know Before You Go:

• Getting there: Thanks to the ICE, Nuremberg can be reached in no time from cities such as Munich, Berlin, or Frankfurt. The international airport also brings visitors from further afield directly to the heart of Franconia.
• Getting around the city: Nuremberg’s Old Town is perfectly walkable, with all the main attractions located in the vicinity of each other. To explore the outskirts of the city, as well the greater region, visitors are welcome to use the extensive network of trains, buses, and trams.
• Best time to visit: In summer, Nuremberg invites visitors with its many beer gardens and open-air festivals. In winter, it shines with the legendary Christkindlesmarkt – one of the must-visit events in Nuremberg.

Now, let’s get to Leonardo’s list of the Top 10 things to see and do in Nuremberg.

1. The Imperial Castle

Whether at dawn or sunset, the Imperial Castle towers majestically over the city. For centuries it was a symbol of imperial power. Today, it is a viewpoint, a Nuremberg museum, and a storyteller all in one. Take your time to explore the deep well, the old castle rooms, and enjoy the view of the Old Town from the castle garden.

2. Nuremberg Old Town

Nuremberg Old Town is a treasure trove: half-timbered houses, small shops, the Old Town Hall, and squares full of life. The Main Market Square with the “Beautiful Fountain” is the heart of the Old Town. While here, make sure to turn the golden ring on the fountain and make a wish, it’ll sure come true!  The Old Town is a highlight of any Nuremberg sightseeing.

3. Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Gigantic ruins, vast spaces, oppressive architecture: the Nazi Party Rally Grounds are among the most striking Nuremberg tourist places. Today, the Documentation Centre and guided tours remind us how dangerous propaganda and staging can be. Even if you’re not much of a history buff, it’s still easy to spend half of a day here, reflecting on the humanity’s dark past.

4. Nuremberg Trials Memorial

Courtroom 600 of the Palace of Justice is the infamous site of the trials of the most notorious war criminals, which took place in 1945. The Nuremberg Trials Memorial is not a place of sensationalism but one of responsibility. Multimedia installations explain how international law came into being and why Nuremberg became a symbol of justice. It’s a great place if you’re looking to learn more about the outcomes of the WWII.

5. Germanisches Nationalmuseum

Anyone who thinks museums are dusty will be surprised here. The Germanisches Nationalmuseum, the largest cultural-historical museum in the German-speaking world, displays everything from Dürer’s self-portraits to old musical instruments and modern design objects. It’s a highlight among Nuremberg museums, which comes in contrast to the dark past of the city.

6. St. Lorenz & St. Sebald

Both churches impress with their scale and atmosphere. St. Lorenz Church, dedicated to Saint Lawrence, is one of the most prominent churches of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in southern Germany. St. Sebald Church is a medieval church, which is dedicated to the city’s patron. Together with the Frauenkirche (Our Lady's Church), they form a trinity of the most important and oldest churches in Nuremberg.

7. Handwerkerhof

Hidden beside the Königstor Gate is the Handwerkerhof, a small village within the city. Here, glassblowers, potters, and artisans continue to practice old crafts while taverns serve freshly grilled bratwurst. It’s a truly authentic place, full of Nuremberg cultural flair.

8. Albrecht Dürer’s House

The half-timbered house, where the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer once lived is now a museum. The place showcases his original drawings, prints, and holds workshops. To fully immerse into the atmosphere, we recommend joining one of the guided tours led by actresses playing Dürer’s wife Agnes. This museum is one of the top things to see in Nuremberg for art lovers.

9. Nuremberg Zoo

Polar bears, dolphins, giraffes, tigers: the Nuremberg Zoo is one of the most family-friendly Nuremberg tourist attractions. Here, nature and animal welfare meet, and the spacious grounds of the zoo make it particularly spectacular.

10. Day trips from Nuremberg

The city is not only a destination in itself, but also the perfect base for exploring the attractions near Nuremberg. The most scenic ones are:

• Franconian Switzerland: mountains, valleys, castles, and rivers offer truly scenic landscapes.
• Bamberg: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with idyllic half-timbered houses and its own “Little Venice”.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber: a fairy-tale medieval town of cobblestones, assures for a magical holiday.

Bonus Tip: Nuremberg’s flavours

A true traveller explores a city not only with his eyes but also with his taste buds. In Nuremberg, that means hearty, spicy, and sweet:

• Nuremberg grilled sausages: Tiny, but mighty. Traditionally served in portions of six, eight, or twelve and often with sauerkraut on a pewter plate.
• Original Nuremberg gingerbread: More than just a Christmas treat. Moist, aromatic, and world-famous, available in the Old Town year-round.
• Schäufele: Pork shoulder with a crispy crust, it’s the Franconian answer to the Sunday roast.
• Blaue Zipfel: Bratwurst sausages simmered in vinegar, onions, and spices – light and distinctly regional.
• Franconian beer: With over a hundred breweries in and around Nuremberg, every village has its own brew – a paradise for beer lovers.

Nuremberg is not just a collection of impressive buildings or Nuremberg tourist places. It is a city that shows how history and the present can coexist – sometimes difficult, often inspiring, always exciting. Between Nuremberg top attractions, memorials to the past, and Franconian beauty, you will find an experience that will stay with you long after your trip.

Book your stay now with Leonardo Hotels in Nuremberg.