“In Nuremberg, history is in every stone.” This saying captures the atmosphere of the Franconian metropolis perfectly. Nuremberg, the second-largest city in Bavaria, uniquely blends the rich history of the Middle Ages with vibrant modernity. Famous for its imposing Imperial Castle, charming old town, and culinary specialties like gingerbread and Nuremberg sausages, Nuremberg has much more to offer.

• A charming old town, characterized by medieval architecture and lively squares
• Important historical sites such as the Imperial Castle and the Party Rally Grounds
• Diverse events throughout the year, from Christmas markets to music festivals
• A thriving cultural scene with museums, theaters, and contemporary galleries
• Culinary highlights such as the legendary Nuremberg roasted sausages and gingerbread

• Foundation: around 1050
• Population: about 530,000
• Area: approx. 186 km²
• Elevation above sea level: about 300 meters
• Landmarks: Imperial Castle, St. Lorenz Church, Wine Depot
• Important Events: Christmas Market, Bardentreffen, Blue Night
• Industries: Toys, Metal Processing, IT
• Famous Companies: MAN, Siemens, Diehl
• Universities: Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Nuremberg Institute of Technology Georg Simon Ohm
• Rivers: Pegnitz, Goldbach
• Sister Cities: including Krakow, Skopje, San Carlos
• Transport: An important ICE hub and international airport

Nuremberg's origins date back to the year 1050, when Emperor Henry III had the first castle built on the castle rock. This imperial castle was the nucleus of the later city that developed around the powerful fortress.

Rise to Imperial City and Cultural Flourishing

In the late Middle Ages, Nuremberg was declared a Free Imperial City, which granted it independence and political significance within the Holy Roman Empire. During this time, the city developed into a center for art and science. Famous figures such as the painter Albrecht Dürer and the astronomer Regiomontanus shaped the cultural landscape of the city. Nuremberg was also an important trade center, renowned for its craftsmanship, particularly in metalworking.

War, Destruction, and Reconstruction

The old town was almost completely destroyed during the bombings, but in the years following the war, an elaborate reconstruction began – something the people of Nuremberg were not willing to forgo. Particularly important was the faithful reconstruction of the imperial castle and the historic old town.

Good to know: Nuremberg also became famous after the war due to the famous Nuremberg Trials, in which leading Nazi officials were held accountable for their war crimes.

Nuremberg consists of seven districts, which are further divided into numerous neighborhoods. Each district has its own charm, from historic quarters to modern residential areas.

District	Neighborhood
1. Mitte	Old Town Gardens Behind the Fortress
2. Northwest Outskirts	Großreuth near Schweinau Schniegling
3. Western Outskirts	Gostenhof Muggenhof
4. Southern Outskirts	Katzwang Reichelsdorf
5. Southeast Outskirts	Langwasser Fischbach
6. Eastern Outskirts	Mögeldorf St. Jobst
7. Northeast Outskirts	Erlenstegen Ziegelstein

Nuremberg offers a variety of attractions that reflect the historical and cultural heritage of the city. Here are some of the most important landmarks you should not miss:

• Imperial Castle: The Imperial Castle is the city's landmark and majestically overlooks the old town. Once the residence of the Holy Roman Emperors, it now provides impressive insights into medieval history.
• Sebaldus Church: This Gothic church is one of the most significant buildings in Nuremberg and impresses with its elaborate architecture and stained glass windows.
• Frauenkirche: Located in the main market square, the Frauenkirche is famous for the "Männleinlaufen," a clockwork figurine show that occurs daily at 12 pm.
• Weinstadel: The timber-framed house on the banks of the Pegnitz River is considered one of the largest and oldest half-timbered houses in Germany. It once served as a refuge for leprosy patients.
• Beautiful Fountain: This artistically designed fountain in the main market square is a popular photo spot and a symbol of medieval Nuremberg.

A Tour Through the Old Town – Nuremberg's Highlights on a Walk

To explore the main attractions in Nuremberg's old town, the following route is recommended:

1. Imperial Castle: Start your walk at the Imperial Castle and enjoy the view over the city.
2. Sebaldus Church: The oldest parish church in Nuremberg is located nearby.
3. Main Market: Stroll to the main market, where you can visit the Beautiful Fountain and the Frauenkirche.
4. Weinstadel: Continue to the picturesque Weinstadel on the banks of the Pegnitz River.
5. Executioner's Bridge: Walk along the Pegnitz and visit the historic Executioner's Bridge.

Tip: A visit to the Christkindlesmarkt in winter perfectly rounds off your stay. The world-famous Christmas market transforms the old town into a festive winter landscape.

The Pegnitz shapes the cityscape of Nuremberg like no other river. It flows picturesque through the old town and offers not only a beautiful backdrop but also numerous leisure activities. Here are the most important bodies of water in Nuremberg:

Body of Water	Length (in km)
Pegnitz	113
Wöhrder See	2
Goldbach	11

Tip: The Wöhrder See is particularly popular, an artificially created body of water that serves as a local recreation area. Here you can walk, jog, or relax by the shore.

Nuremberg is today an important economic and educational center in Bavaria. Traditional industries, modern technology companies, and renowned educational institutions shape the city. But what precisely characterizes the Nuremberg economy?

Population Statistics

The city has a steadily growing population and is continuing to establish itself as a dynamic and innovative metropolis. Nuremberg is also known for its cultural diversity, with people from over 160 nations living here.

• Population: approximately 530,000
• Foreign residents: around 100,000
• Average age: 42 years
• Students: about 25,000 at various universities

What Shapes Nuremberg's Economy?

Nuremberg is known for its diverse economic structure. Some of the most important industries include:

• Toy Industry: Nuremberg is a world-leading location for toy production and hosts the International Toy Fair, the largest of its kind.
• Metal Processing and Mechanical Engineering: Traditionally strong, this sector is firmly established in Nuremberg with companies like MAN and Siemens.
• IT and Communication Technology: Nuremberg has established itself in recent years as a center for start-ups and technology companies.
• Trade Fair Sector: The Nuremberg Trade Fair is among the largest and most significant in Europe, featuring numerous international trade fairs.
• Food Production: In addition to gingerbread and grilled sausages, other specialties produced here are known well beyond the city's borders.

Education and Research

With the Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) and the Nuremberg Institute of Technology Georg Simon Ohm, Nuremberg boasts renowned educational institutions. Particularly in the fields of business, engineering, and IT, Nuremberg enjoys a high reputation. Numerous research institutions are also located in the city, making the location especially attractive for skilled professionals and companies.

 

Nuremberg is not only historically significant but also a city that shines all year round with a variety of events. From traditional festivals to modern cultural and music events, there is something for every taste.

Event	Period	Info
Toy Fair	February	The largest trade fair for toys worldwide
Blue Night	May	An art and culture festival with light installations
Bardentreffen	July	International music festival on the streets of the city
Classical Open Air	July/August	Classical concerts in Luitpoldhain in the open air
Christkindlesmarkt	Late November to December 24	The most famous Christmas market in Germany

 

Tip: The Blue Night is a highlight for art lovers. Numerous art installations and light shows make the city shine in a very special light.

Whether you're traveling as a couple, single, or family, Nuremberg offers exciting destinations for every situation. Here are our recommendations that you definitely shouldn't miss while you're there.

Five Excursion Destinations in Nuremberg

1. Nuremberg Castle – The castle is the city's landmark and a must-see for anyone interested in history. From here, you get a spectacular view over the city.
2. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds – An impressive place to learn more about the time of National Socialism and Nuremberg's role in that era.
3. St. Lorenz Church – One of the most important Gothic churches in Bavaria, its interior is enhanced by artistic stained glass windows.
4. Nuremberg Zoo – The zoo is a popular destination for families and is characterized by its naturalistic enclosures.
5. German National Museum – Here you can dive into German cultural history and admire impressive works of art.

Three Recommendations in Nuremberg for Couples

1. Romantic Walk Through the Old Town – Stroll hand in hand through the historic alleys and enjoy the medieval architecture.
2. Dinner at Albrecht Dürer Stübchen – Enjoy regional Franconian cuisine in a cozy and historic atmosphere.
3. Classical Open Air – The classical open-air concert in Luitpoldhain is perfect for a romantic evening under the stars.

Three Recommendations in Nuremberg for Singles

1. Bars and Cafés in Gostenhof – The alternative district offers numerous cool spots where you can meet new people.
2. Bardentreffen – The international music festival is an ideal place to connect in a relaxed atmosphere.
3. The Blue Night – Experience art and culture while meeting like-minded individuals – the cultural highlight in Nuremberg.

Three Recommendations in Nuremberg for Families

1. Nuremberg Zoo – The expansive zoo offers numerous attractions for children and adults, including a dolphinarium.
2. Toy Museum – A highlight for kids and adults alike, showcasing the history of toys in an engaging way.
3. Rock-Cave Walks Under the Old Town – An underground tour through the historic rock tunnels, which will particularly fascinate children.

Three Hotel Recommendations in Nuremberg

1. Hotel Victoria – A charming boutique hotel right in the old town, ideal for city explorations.
2. Park Plaza Nuremberg – A stylish hotel in the heart of the city, perfect for business travelers and tourists.
3. Mövenpick Hotel Nuremberg Airport – Ideal for business travelers and passengers, just a few steps from the airport.

Rules and No-Gos in Nuremberg

• Public Transport: You should always have your ticket for bus and train, as inspections are frequent.
• Alcohol Consumption in Public: In some parts of the city, especially in the old town, drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited.
• Respect for Historical Sites: Landmarks and historical sites should always be treated with respect. Photography is allowed in most museums and churches, but you should refrain from using flash.

How to Get to Nuremberg

• By Car: Nuremberg can be easily reached via the A3, A6, and A9 highways. The city has numerous parking garages, including in the old town.
• By Train: Nuremberg Central Station is an important ICE hub. You can conveniently reach Nuremberg by train from many German and European cities.
• By Plane: Nuremberg Airport is just 7 kilometers from the city center and offers connections to many European cities.

Nuremberg offers a unique combination of history, culture, and modernity. The city blends its rich past with a vibrant present, making it an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you are visiting the historical Imperial Castle, strolling through the old town, or experiencing one of the numerous events – Nuremberg will impress you in many ways.