Nuremberg is the kind of place where you step off the train and immediately smell grilled sausages in the air. Follow your nose straight to a traditional bratwurst stand and order a portion of the city’s legendary Nuremberger sausages. They’re small, deliciously smoky, and come in sets of six, eight, or twelve because no one eats just one. Pair them with a generous dollop of mustard and a pretzel, then wash it all down with a local beer, because yes, beer before noon is entirely acceptable here.
If you need a proper sit-down experience, Bratwursthäusle is a solid option, where they grill the sausages over a beechwood fire, adding that extra bit of smoky magic. If you prefer something a little different, try a Fränkische Sauerbraten—a marinated pot roast that will make you consider abandoning all previous dietary restrictions. The meat is slow-cooked to perfection and served with a side of potato dumplings and red cabbage, proving that German cuisine is far more than just sausages and pretzels.
Strolling Through the Nuremberg Old Town
After getting adequately fuelled, wander through the Altstadt, where half-timbered houses and medieval architecture make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. Hauptmarkt, the city’s main square, is where the action is—unless it’s Christmas season, in which case it’s pure festive chaos. The Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) is worth a moment of admiration, and tradition dictates you should spin its golden ring for good luck. Do it. You’ll need all the luck you can get when attempting to walk off the sausages.
If you happen to visit on a market day, take your time browsing stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to local cheeses and Franconian wines. For those with a sweet tooth, grab a Schneeball—a traditional pastry that resembles a snowball and is more satisfying to eat than you’d expect. For something savoury, try a classic Nuremberg pretzel, crisp on the outside and fluffy in the centre, often served with a generous smear of butter.
A Walk Up to Kaiserburg Castle
If your legs are up for it, head up to the Kaiserburg, Nuremberg’s imperial castle, looming over the city like a medieval giant. The climb is short but steep, and at the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of red rooftops and winding streets. The castle itself is a mix of sturdy stone towers and manicured gardens, a reminder that emperors once roamed these halls. Spend some time pretending you own the place before heading back down to reality.
While you’re there, stop by the Deep Well and Sinwell Tower for even better views. If history is your thing, the castle museum is full of medieval artifacts, including suits of armor, weapons, and items that make you grateful you live in the 21st century. The armory collection is particularly impressive, offering insight into how knights prepared for battle and how terrifying it must have been to fight in full metal gear.
Nuremberg: Museums and a Touch of Dark History
Nuremberg’s past is as rich as it is complicated, and the city doesn’t shy away from addressing its darker chapters. The Documentation Centre at the former Nazi Party Rally Grounds is a sobering but essential visit, offering an in-depth look at how history unfolded here. It’s heavy but important. If you need something to lift the mood afterward, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum is packed with art, historical artefacts, and enough medieval weaponry to make your inner knight very happy.
For something entirely different, the Toy Museum is a nostalgic trip through childhood, showcasing centuries of toys, from elaborate dollhouses to early tin robots. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a kid again, this is your chance. The museum also highlights Nuremberg’s role as one of the world’s major toy manufacturing hubs, making it clear why the city still hosts the world-famous International Toy Fair.
A Beer Hall and the Art of Prost
By now, you’ve earned a proper Bavarian beer experience. Head to one of Nuremberg’s many beer halls, where wooden benches, oversized steins, and the occasional group of locals in lederhosen create an atmosphere of pure gemütlichkeit. Order a Rotbier, the city’s signature red beer, and pair it with Schäufele—slow-roasted pork shoulder with a crispy rind that could probably solve world problems. Clink glasses with strangers and embrace the fact that in Nuremberg, everyone is your drinking buddy.
If beer isn’t your thing (though that seems unlikely here), a glass of Franconian Silvaner wine is a respectable alternative. Just be prepared for raised eyebrows from the locals. And if you’re feeling particularly brave, try a glass of Bockbier, a strong, malty brew that packs a serious punch.
Sunrise at the Pegnitz River
The morning after a beer hall experience requires a gentle start, so take a peaceful stroll along the Pegnitz River. The reflections of medieval buildings in the water are postcard-perfect, and the bridges offer some of the best photo opportunities in town. Henkersteg, the Executioner’s Bridge, has a suitably dramatic name and an even more dramatic view. The surrounding area is full of charming little cafés where you can nurse a strong coffee and reflect on last night’s beer choices.
If you’re an early riser, take a detour to the Wöhrder See, a picturesque lake just outside the city centre, where joggers and swans enjoy the morning in equal measure. During summer, it’s a great place for a quiet picnic or a refreshing swim, while in winter, it transforms into a frozen wonderland.
A Taste of Medieval Justice at the Albrecht Dürer House
No trip to Nuremberg is complete without visiting the home of its most famous resident—Albrecht Dürer, Renaissance artist extraordinaire. His half-timbered house is part museum, part time-travel experience, offering a glimpse into the life of a man who basically put Nuremberg on the artistic map. There’s also an excellent selection of his work on display, proving that he was as talented with a brush as he was with an elaborate signature.
While you’re in the area, check out the nearby Weißgerbergasse, a ridiculously picturesque street lined with medieval half-timbered houses that survived World War II. It’s one of those places that forces you to stop for a photo, whether you planned to or not.
Nuremberg: A Culinary Farewell With Lebkuchen
Before leaving, stock up on the city’s second most famous food: Lebkuchen. These spiced gingerbread cookies have been a Nuremberg specialty for centuries and come in all sorts of varieties—covered in chocolate, stuffed with nuts, or just classic and perfectly spiced. Grab a tin from one of the traditional bakeries or markets to take home, though let’s be honest, they won’t last the journey.
If you need a last-minute edible souvenir, pick up a jar of Nuremberger honey or a bottle of locally brewed beer—it’s practically a gift to yourself. For an extra treat, find a bakery selling Elisenlebkuchen, a premium version of the gingerbread that is softer, richer, and utterly divine.
The best way to say goodbye to Nuremberg? One final beer, preferably at a brewery where they’ve been perfecting their craft for centuries. Sit back, raise a stein, and toast to a city that effortlessly blends medieval charm with modern-day liveliness. Prost! If you have time before your train or flight, squeeze in one last bratwurst—it’s the only responsible way to end a trip here.
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