Why Nuremberg?
Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria, Germany. It is the location of the infamous Nuremberg Trials, and it is packed full of history and culture. The 950 year old city has so much to offer that we suggest having at least a weekend to take advantage of its beauty. However, if you have only one day in Nuremberg, here are the things you must do and see to make the most of your time!
Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg)
This medieval castle was the stronghold of the Old Holy Roman Empire. First mentioned in 1105, the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg is one of the most important fortresses in Germany. The castle provides a panoramic view over the entire city and should be the first spot on your list.
Sinwell Tower and the Deep Well are a must-see if visiting the Imperial Castle. The well house never fails to impress since it goes 50 meters into the rock. Sinwell Tower can be climbed using a wooden staircase that dates back to the 18th or 19th century. Visitors can admire the view as well as look at a photo exhibition about WWII when they reach the top.
Eat Bratwurst at Zum Gulden Stern
After working up an appetite climbing the tower and exploring the castle, stop by for a meal at Zum Gulden Stern, a bratwurst restaurant that has been at its current address since 1419. Eat Nuremberg’s signature bratwurst which is grilled over a beechwood fire and is served with sauerkraut.
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds (Reichsparteitagsgelände)
Nuremberg is best known for the Nuremberg Trials, where Nazi war criminals were tried for their crimes and where the Nazi Party flourished before the Second World War. The city uses its sobering past to encourage visitors to educate themselves on the atrocities of the Second World War. “Fascination and Terror” is a permanent exhibition at the Documentation Center which gives visitors insight into the propaganda of the National Socialist Party.
Memorium Nuremberg Trials (Memorium Nürnberger Prozesse)
The Nuremberg Trials held Nazi war criminals accountable for their actions and influenced international criminal law in ways that hold true to this day. The Memoriam is a museum that documents the trials and the suffering that the perpetrators caused. Courtroom 600 can be visited between sessions during the week or on Sundays.
Albrecht Dürer’s House (Albrecht-Dürer-Haus)
Albrecht Dürer is a German Renaissance painter and one of the most renowned artists in German history. The last surviving house of a 15th century artist in Europe, The Dürer House is devoted to honoring the memory of Albrecht Dürer.
Even if you are uninterested in art, the 5-story house is a great place to visit to see how people lived in the 16th century. The workroom, kitchen, and living room have been restored and feel like a time capsule. After the visit, you can also check out the “Der Hase” sculpture right outside the Dürer House.
Nuremberg St. Lawrence Church (Lorenzkirche)
It would be a pity to visit Nuremberg and leave without visiting St. Lawrence Church. A gothic-style building, it is full of art to be admired – stained glass, medieval altars, and a three-part pipe organ are just a few of St. Lawrence Church’s must-see features.
The “Angelic Salutation” sculpture, made by Veit Stoss hangs in the middle of the choir, behind the altar.
Nuremberg Walk Through the Old Town (Altstadt)
There are many sights you can see just strolling through the town, which you should keep an eye out for:
- The Hangman’s Bridge (Henkersteg)
- The façade of St. Sebaldus Church (Sebalduskirche)
- A 14th century foundation next to the town hall (Schöner Brunnen)
Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt)
Last, but not least, if you’re lucky enough to visit Nuremberg in December, you have to visit the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market! It’s one of the biggest festivals in Nuremberg and is known for colourful lights, sweets, mulled wine, and visits by Christkind!
Visitors can take a carriage ride around the Christmas Market on mail coach carriages, swoon over hand-painted nutcrackers or stuff their faces with lebkuchen (German gingerbread).
Pick up the famous Nuremberg “prune men” made of prunes and wires as souvenirs, and make sure to have plenty of cash to shop from the Christmas Market stalls!
With colourful twinkling lights, Christmas ornaments, and delicious food and wine, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is a magical Christmas experience for adults and children alike!
Conclusion
This concludes one day in Nuremberg and covers all the essentials. However, Nuremberg has much more to offer. For more activities, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary that covers more of Nuremberg’s history and culture.
