Michelle Cacija

Step into the heart of Nuremberg, a city where the magic of the past meets the vibrancy of today. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the medieval Old Town, where half-timbered houses and ancient walls whisper stories of centuries gone by. Let the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling Nürnberger Bratwurst and freshly cooked sauerkraut fill the air, inviting you to indulge in the city’s famous culinary treasures. From the majestic Nuremberg Castle to the bustling Hauptmarkt, every corner of this charming city offers a blend of rich culture, delicious food, and stunning architecture. Servus and welcome to my “24 hours in Nuremberg” Blog and see why this enchanting city should be at the top of your travel list!

As always, I want to remind you, that this blog isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all of my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.

Index

1. The Basics about Nuremberg
2. Things you need to be aware of
3. Medical insurance
4. Itinerary
5. Summary of activities
6. Other Germany Blogs

The Basics about Nuremberg

When to visit

Nuremberg is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for sightseeing. Winters are cold, but the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market, which runs from late November to December, is a magical experience. Summers (July to August) are warm with temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for enjoying sightseeing, outdoor festivals and events.

Time period

You can see most of the main attractions in one or two days. To truly experience the charm of Nuremberg, a stay of around three days is recommended though. This allows enough time to explore the city’s historical sites, enjoy its culinary delights, and take a relaxing stroll through its picturesque Old Town. If you have extra time, consider a day trip to nearby attractions such as the Franconian Lake District or Bamberg.

Getting There

Nuremberg is easily accessible by various means of transportation. The city has its own airport, Nuremberg Airport (NUE), with direct flights from many European cities. For those traveling by train, Nuremberg’s Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is a major hub with connections to big cities like Munich, Berlin, and Frankfurt. Buses also provide an affordable option for reaching the city.

Where to stay

Nuremberg offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. For a central location, consider staying in the Old Town (Altstadt), where you can find charming hotels and guesthouses. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, the southern districts offer a mix of local charm and trendy accommodations. For those on a budget, hostels and budget hotels are also widely available throughout the city.

Getting around

Navigating Nuremberg is easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The city boasts an good network of trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway), which can take you to all major attractions. Walking is also a great way to explore the compact Old Town and is probably the most efficient way to see the sights.

What to pack

When visiting Nuremberg, pack according to the season. In summer, bring light clothing while in winter, warm layers, a coat, and gloves are essential. Comfortable walking shoes are a must year-round due to the city’s cobblestone streets.

Additionaly, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, aftersun, etc. You never know what you might need it for, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than in a country where you don’t know the ingredients and languages. If you’re coming from outside Europe, don’t forget to bring a Type C power adapter.

Cost of Traveling

Nuremberg is relatively affordable compared to other major German cities. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels, with prices typically between €40-140 per night. Meals at local restaurants are reasonably priced, with traditional dishes costing around €10-15. Public transportation is also cost-effective, with day passes. Entrance fees to museums and attractions are generally modest, making it possible to explore the city without breaking the bank.

Things you need to be aware of

Sundays. On Sundays, shops and supermarkets are closed, while restaurants and cafes usually remain open. It’s the perfect day to explore Nuremberg’s rich history by visiting its stunning castles, fascinating museums, or enjoying the beautiful nature in and around the city. Whether you’re into culture or just want a relaxing day out, Nuremberg has plenty to offer.

Water in Germany. You can safely drink tap water in Germany as it’s clean and meets the World Health Organization standards.

Toilet situation. Unfortunately, public restrooms typically cost around 50 Cent to a euro in Germany (and many other European countries). So, make sure to carry a few coins with you and always use the restroom before leaving your accommondation, a restaurant, or a café.

Tipping. In Germany, tipping is very common. It’s customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services.

Currency. The currency in Germany is the Euro. While a few years ago, Nuremberg was still very cash-oriented, they now accept cards mostly everywhere. It’s still advisable, though, to bring some cash with you.

Things you should try. When visiting Nuremberg, there are a few must-try experiences that capture the essence of the city. Start with the famous Nürnberger Bratwurst, small grilled sausages traditionally served with sauerkraut or potato salad. After, don’t miss out on the Nürnberger Lebkuchen, a spiced gingerbread cookie that’s especially popular during the Christmas season but available year-round.

Medical insurance

I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.

SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Itinerary

No trip to Nuremberg is complete without a visit to the majestic Kaiserburg, a true symbol of the city. Perched atop a hill just above the charming Old Town, this historic castle is only a 15-minute walk from the city center, making it an easy and rewarding start to your day.

The earliest traces of construction date back to around the year 1000, marking the Kaiserburg as one of the oldest and most historically significant structures in Nuremberg. Over the centuries, this impressive complex, which includes the Kaiserburg and the Burggrafenburg, evolved into one of the largest castle systems in Germany. From the 12th century until today, 32 emperors and kings have called this fortress home, adding layers of royal history to its already storied walls.

As you approach the castle, you’ll find the popular viewing platform at the entrance, known as the Freiung. This spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Nuremberg’s picturesque Old Town (Altstadt). The best part? You can access this viewpoint even outside of the official opening hours, allowing you to soak in the scenery at your leisure.

Once inside the expansive grounds of the Kaiserburg, you’ll discover a treasure trove of fascinating corners to explore. Wander through the regal halls, marvel at ancient artifacts, and imagine the stories of knights and emperors who once walked these very corridors. Beyond the castle walls, don’t miss the beautifully maintained gardens and the iconic Sinwell Tower, which offers even more spectacular views for those willing to climb its spiral staircase.

Whether you’re here for the history, the stunning views, or simply to soak in the atmosphere of this storied landmark, the Kaiserburg is a highlight that promises to leave a lasting impression on your Nuremberg adventure.

Visitor information: If you’re planning to explore the Kaiserburg, there are several ticket options to suit your interests. The Kaiserburg Combined Ticket offers access to the Palas with its stunning Double Chapel, the Kaiserburg Museum, the historic Deep Well, and the Sinwell Tower. This costs €9, with a reduced price of €8. For those who prefer to focus on specific areas, you can opt for a ticket to the Palas with the Double Chapel and the Kaiserburg Museum for €7, or €6 at a reduced rate. There is also just a ticket for the Deep Well and Sinwell Tower for €4, with a reduced rate of €3. The gardens are free to visit. For more information and the latest updates, click here to visit the official website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

After you’ve soaked in all the history and stunning views from the Kaiserburg, take a leisurely stroll toward the Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg’s most important square. On your way there, you’ll wander through the picturesque streets of the Old Town, where cobbled alleys and charming buildings transport you to another era. If you have time, make sure to stop by the Sebalduskirche (St. Sebald Church) on your way. This beautiful church is one of the oldest in Nuremberg.

Only a short stroll from Sebalduskirche (St. Sebaldus Church), you’ll discover one of the most famous and photographed streets in all of Nuremberg: Weißgerbergasse. This charming alley is home to the largest collection of preserved half-timbered houses from the 15th to 17th centuries. As you wander through, you’ll be surrounded by a mix of small shops, cozy cafés, and restaurants.

Many people envision Nuremberg as a fairytale town filled entirely with timber-framed houses, and I was no different before my first visit. Unfortunately, this romanticized idea isn’t entirely true, as much of Nuremberg’s historic architecture was destroyed during World War II. However, Weißgerbergasse remains a stunning exception, offering a rare and beautiful glimpse into the city’s past. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee in one of the cafés or snapping a photo of the charming houses, Weißgerbergasse is a must-see in Nuremberg.

Directly opposite the Frauenkirche, you’ll find the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain), which lives up to its name. Standing at 19 meters tall, this ornate fountain doesn’t resemble a traditional water feature at all. Instead, it’s more akin to the majestic spire of a Gothic church tower, adorned with intricate sculptures and rich details. Keep an eye out for the famous golden ring on the fountain’s gate. Legend has it that spinning the ring three times will bring good luck, so be sure to give it a try while making a wish!

The square itself is full of life, especially with the many Würstelstände (sausage stands) offering the city’s famous Nürnberger Bratwürstchen. These small, flavorful sausages are a local delicacy, and no visit to Nuremberg would be complete without savoring a few. So grab a warm sausage with sauerkraut and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Hauptmarkt.

After exploring Weißgerbergasse, make your way toward one of Nuremberg’s most iconic postcard scenes: the Weinstadel and Henkersteg. This picturesque ensemble of medieval architecture, located near the Maxbrücke, offers one of the best views in the city. From the bridge, you’ll be treated to a stunning sight that captures the essence of Nuremberg’s charm.

If you have the time and curiosity to explore beyond the usual sights, head across the Pegnitz River to discover two remarkable and often overlooked churches: St. Elisabeth and St. Jakob. These architectural treasures offer a quieter, more intimate glimpse into the city’s rich history.

On rainy days, Nürnberg offers a few nice museums to explore, such as the Germanisches Nationalmuseum or the Spielzeugmuseum Nürnberg (Toy Museum). I hope my Nürnberg blog has been helpful and that you enjoy your visit to this charming city! Don’t forget to take in the local cuisine and explore the beautiful old town, even if the weather isn’t on your side. There’s always something special to discover in Nürnberg!

Summary of activities

• The Kaiserburg (castle)
• The Hauptmark (square)
• Weißgerbergasse (famous street)
• The Frauenkirche (church)
• The Sebalduskirche (church)
• The Kettensteg (bridge)
• Weinstandel and Henkersteg
• The Reichsparteitagsgelände (museum)
• Germanische Nationalmuseum (museum)
• Spielzeugmuseum Nürnberg (toy museum)
• Christmas market (At the end of November and December)

Other Germany Blogs