A Toy Box Full of History! 24 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Nuremberg

Nuremberg is located in southern Germany and is the second most populous city in Bavaria after Munich. The old town, surrounded by medieval city walls, is filled with historical sights! Nuremberg is also famous for its Christmas market, one of the most well-known in Germany, attracting many tourists every year. Additionally, Nuremberg is renowned for hosting the world's largest toy fair. The city boasts numerous attractions, including museums, galleries, and places where families with children can have fun. Here are 24 recommended sightseeing spots in Nuremberg.

1. Nuremberg Christmas Market

Among the many Christmas markets held throughout Germany, Nuremberg's "Hauptmarkt" is one of the oldest venues. For about a month leading up to Christmas each year, it attracts tourists from all over the world. The Christmas Market features many shops selling delightful items such as sweet mulled wine called "Glühwein," Nuremberg’s famous herb-filled sausages, and beautiful handmade ornaments. Just strolling through the market is a fun experience in itself!

Even outside the Christmas season, Hauptmarkt frequently hosts musical events and other activities, making it a lively spot for both tourists and locals. It is the central square that serves as a starting point for sightseeing in Nuremberg, so be sure to visit Hauptmarkt first.

2. Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain)

Located on the north side of Hauptmarkt, the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) was built in the late 14th century. The 17-meter-tall tower with its golden sculptures stands out as a beautiful water feature, just as its name suggests. Although much of Nuremberg was reduced to rubble during World War II, the Schöner Brunnen miraculously survived unscathed. As a result, it is one of the few pre-war structures that remain in the city, which has since been largely rebuilt.

A golden ring, seamlessly fitted into the iron fence surrounding the fountain, is said to bring good luck if you turn it three times to the right while making a wish. As a result, many tourists line up daily to spin the golden ring. Be sure to visit the Schöner Brunnen, admire its beauty, and spin the ring to create a lasting memory of your trip to Nuremberg.

3. Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady)

Facing Hauptmarkt in the center of Nuremberg, Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) is a Gothic-style church built by Emperor Charles IV of the Holy Roman Empire in the mid-13th century. The church's simple Gothic facade enhances its majestic presence.

Inside, you will find a beautiful 15th-century altar, and the flickering candlelight from the prayer candles throughout the church adds a serene atmosphere. Frauenkirche was reduced to rubble during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt using the original materials. It has since become one of Nuremberg’s most famous restored landmarks.

On the church’s facade is Germany’s oldest mechanical clock. At exactly noon each day, the seven Electors parade in front of Emperor Charles IV, making the clock both charming and symbolic of Nuremberg's historical glory. Since this display only happens once a day, be sure not to miss it during your visit to Nuremberg.

4. Old Town Hall

In front of St. Sebaldus Church, located north of Hauptmarkt, stands the Old Town Hall of Nuremberg. This solid stone building, with Nuremberg's emblem prominently displayed above the entrance, exudes an air of historical significance. It serves as a reminder of the prosperity of medieval Nuremberg.

The Old Town Hall was once used as a prison in the medieval period, and some of the torture devices from that era are now on display. A popular mini-prison tour, lasting about 30 minutes, offers detailed insights into its history. Though slightly eerie, this unique guided tour adds a thrilling dimension to the visitor experience.

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5. Nuremberg Castle

Perched on a hill at the northern end of Nuremberg's old town, this medieval castle complex houses a museum within part of its structure. From the observation tower, which was used as a watchtower during the medieval period, you can enjoy a stunning view of Nuremberg’s old town, with its red-roofed buildings and church spires. Also known as Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle), Nuremberg Castle offers visitors a majestic view reminiscent of being an emperor.

Behind the castle lies a garden filled with seasonal roses and flowers, connected by a narrow stairway leading to the castle wall—a hidden gem for those in the know!

Furthermore, you can even stay overnight at Nuremberg Castle. The former stables have been converted into a youth hostel, offering reasonably priced accommodations. It’s a rare opportunity to stay in a historic castle at an affordable rate, so be sure to check it out.

6. St. Lorenz Church

As you walk from Nuremberg Central Station towards Hauptmarkt along Königstraße, you will see St. Lorenz Church on your right. This is the largest church in Nuremberg and is a classic example of Gothic architecture, with two somewhat rugged spires and a magnificent 9-meter rose window in between. The heavy stone construction, adorned with various reliefs, gives it a historical feel, even though it lacks excessive ornamentation.

Inside the church, there are many sights worth seeing. The nearly 20-meter altar, created by Adam Kraft in the late 15th century, is a must-see. Don’t miss the relief of the "Annunciation" by Veit Stoss and the beautiful stained glass windows. It is one of the churches that reflects the deep faith of the people of Nuremberg.

7. St. Sebaldus Church

St. Sebaldus Church, located opposite the Old Town Hall, is the oldest church in Nuremberg. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic-style church features two tall spires and a beautifully decorated interior with stained glass windows. It houses the impressive tomb of St. Sebaldus, the patron saint of Nuremberg, along with other beautiful sculptures and a large pipe organ.

St. Sebaldus Church also offers tours where visitors can explore the inside of the spires. Although these tours are only available a few times a year, there are also night tours where you can ascend the spires. The atmosphere created by the flickering candlelight and the sound of the church’s pipe organ in the quiet night is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. After visiting the church, you might also want to try the nearby restaurant, famous for Nuremberg sausages.

8. Germanisches Nationalmuseum (German National Museum)

Located about a 10-minute walk from Nuremberg Central Station, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum is the largest cultural history museum in Germany. The vast collection of exhibits covering art, culture, and history ensures that visitors will never be bored. Rare items, such as the world’s first globe, are among the many treasures on display.

The museum’s architecture is also unique, with a modern glass entrance connecting to a medieval monastery that has been renovated inside. Because of its intricate layout, it’s easy to get lost, so be sure to plan which exhibits you want to see in advance. Given the large number of displays, it’s recommended to prioritize your interests before visiting.

9. Deutsche Bahn Museum (German Railway Museum)

The German Railway Museum is perfect for train enthusiasts, both young and old. It’s conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from Nuremberg Central Station, making it an ideal family destination.

Nuremberg was the first city in Germany to have a railway system. As such, this museum offers insights into the history of German railways, with many old train models that were once in use on display. There are also small rideable trains and railway models for children, making it a great spot for family vacations.

The museum offers pamphlets in English. A good plan for sightseeing could be to watch the trains in action at Nuremberg Central Station and then visit the museum.

10. Craftsmen’s Courtyard (Handwerkerhof)

Just outside Nuremberg Central Station, through the Königstor gate, you’ll find the Craftsmen’s Courtyard, a replica of a medieval German town. Here, authentic craftsmen known as “Meisters” gather to sell handcrafted goods such as jewelry, leather products, and bags—perfect for souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy Nuremberg’s specialty herb sausages and seasonal dishes like white asparagus, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience a medieval atmosphere.

The “Women’s Tower” that stands in the courtyard was one of the four prominent towers along the medieval walls surrounding Nuremberg’s old town. If you walk down the path in front of the tower, you’ll come to a walking path located in the moat between the town walls. The walls here are quite tall, making the area feel dim even during the day. It’s a relatively quiet spot with fewer tourists, so for those who enjoy a peaceful historical walk, this route along the city walls is highly recommended.

11. Toy Museum

Nuremberg is also known as the "Toy City" because it hosts the world's largest toy fair every year. Located close to the city center, the Toy Museum is a highly recommended destination for tourists, showcasing a wide variety of toys, both old and new. The miniature dollhouses, which resemble real homes with furniture and components made with such intricate detail, are particularly impressive. These nostalgic toys are sure to evoke fond memories.

On the first floor, there is a play area where both children and adults can have fun. The museum also offers an audio guide in English, which is recommended for a more in-depth experience of the Toy Museum.

12. Henkersteg & Henkerhaus (Hangman’s Bridge & Hangman’s House)

The Pegnitz River flows through the center of Nuremberg’s Old Town, with many charming bridges spanning its waters. The third bridge from the west, Henkersteg, is a quaint wooden bridge with a roof. However, its name, which translates to "Hangman’s Bridge," carries a more ominous meaning. Across the bridge, on an island in the river, stands Henkerhaus, meaning "Hangman’s House."

The name derives from historical records that up until the 19th century, executioners, a profession despised by society, lived in seclusion at the far end of the island. The Henkerhaus is open to the public for viewing for a short time on Saturdays. Despite its grim name, the surrounding scenery is beautiful, and Henkersteg is a fantastic photo spot. It's a well-known scene in Nuremberg, often featured in guidebooks and postcards.

The medieval wine cellar near the bridge is now used as a student dormitory. Although the area’s layout can be a bit confusing, making it easy for tourists to get lost, Henkersteg and Henkerhaus are must-visit spots in Nuremberg.

13. Albrecht Dürer House

Albrecht Dürer, a renowned painter from Nuremberg, was active during the late 15th and early 16th centuries, a period of the Renaissance. The house where he lived until his death still stands near Nuremberg Castle and is now a museum. Inside this four-story building, visitors can explore various exhibits showcasing Dürer's pursuit of cutting-edge painting techniques, along with displays showing what kitchens were like during his time.

There is also an English audio guide available, which is recommended for those interested in learning more. The street in front of the house is named Albrecht Dürer Street, and in the square outside the house, a large bronze statue of Dürer's famous work, "Young Hare," greets visitors. It's a great spot to take a commemorative photo during your visit to Nuremberg.

There are also other statues and landmarks related to Dürer scattered throughout Nuremberg, and guided tours are available to explore these traces of his legacy.

14. Heilig-Geist-Spital (Hospital of the Holy Spirit)

One of the most famous sightseeing spots in Nuremberg for photography, the Heilig-Geist-Spital (Hospital of the Holy Spirit) is particularly known for its picturesque scenery. The building stretches across an island in the Pegnitz River, giving the impression that it floats on water, creating a striking visual.

The Heilig-Geist-Spital was donated in 1339 by a Nuremberg merchant named Konrad Gross as a hospital and home for the poor and elderly. Its courtyard reflects a peaceful atmosphere, and the building’s historical use as a hospital is evident.

Today, part of the building operates as a restaurant. After sightseeing, you can enjoy a delicious meal of Nuremberg cuisine at this water-bound restaurant while soaking in the history and ambiance of the old hospital. It’s conveniently located in the heart of the Old Town, making it an easy stop for tourists.

15. Johannisfriedhof (St. John’s Cemetery)

St. John’s Cemetery, located in the northwestern outskirts of Nuremberg’s Old Town, is the final resting place of many notable figures connected to the city, including Albrecht Dürer, Adam Kraft, and Anselm Feuerbach. The cemetery is vast, with a wide variety of gravestones in different shapes and sizes. From medieval to more recent ones, the gravestones range from weathered pieces to beautifully sculpted angels standing as tall as two meters.

This cemetery is also known as a tourist spot in Nuremberg, with many visitors coming as part of tours. There’s plenty to see, making it an interesting place to explore.

16. Nuremberg Zoo

The Nuremberg Zoo, located in the eastern suburbs of Nuremberg, is a place where tourists can enjoy an entire day. The zoo covers a vast area and houses many animals, including an aqua pool for aquatic animals. Despite being a zoo, they even host dolphin shows several times a day in the aqua pool.

There are also various areas where children can interact with animals like goats and rabbits, as well as playgrounds, ensuring that kids won’t get bored. With large trees providing shade throughout the zoo, it remains cool even in the summer, making it pleasant to stroll around while viewing the animals. Visitors can relax on benches and enjoy a packed lunch if they get tired.

However, winters in Nuremberg can be harsh, and many animals may stay inside or become inactive. Walking around outdoors in the cold can also be challenging, so it's recommended to visit during seasons other than winter.

17. Marriage Carousel Fountain

In the southwestern part of Nuremberg's Old Town stands the Weißer Turm (White Tower), which now serves as the entrance to the subway station. In front of this medieval tower is the Marriage Carousel (Ehekarussell) monument. This bronze and marble fountain, based on a poem by the 15th-century Nuremberg poet Hans Sachs, depicts the "bittersweet life of marriage."

The fountain shows six symbolic scenes of married life, starting with a passionate and loving couple and ending with the wife dominating her husband, which adds a humorous touch. Many tourists take photos without knowing the meaning behind the statues, but once you understand the background, it becomes even more amusing, as it reflects a familiar story.

The location is also on Nuremberg's shopping street, making it a convenient spot for sightseeing and shopping.

18. Nuremberg Trials Memorial

After World War II, the Nuremberg Trials were held by the Allies to prosecute Nazi war criminals. The actual courtroom, Room 600 in the Nuremberg-Fürth Courthouse, located in the western suburbs of the Old Town, is now open for visitors as a tourist spot. Since the courthouse is still in use, there are times when the room is not available for viewing, but the exhibition panels on the top floor are always open to the public.

There are also audio tours and guided tours available. For those interested in learning more about the Nuremberg Trials, participating in one of these tours is recommended.

19. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

If you take the southeast-bound tram from Nuremberg Central Station and get off at the final stop, "Dokuzentrum," you’ll find the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This museum exhibits documents about the rise and fall of the Nazi Party, using original papers, newspapers, and film footage from that time.

The area was originally built as a victory monument for the Nazis, including a museum and the adjacent Congress Hall. The exhibits are in German, so it might be difficult to fully understand the content without language skills. Visitors can glimpse into the past, such as photos of crowds cheering at Nazi military parades. While not a "fun" tourist destination, it offers deep insights into Nuremberg’s history and is worth visiting.

20. Congress Hall

Adjacent to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is Zeppelin Field, where the massive Congress Hall, designed by the Nazis, stands. The structure, reminiscent of Rome’s Colosseum, could once hold 50,000 Nazi Party members for gatherings. Many might recognize the building from historical films or photographs.

Visitors can stand where Hitler himself delivered speeches. Although the building once had a dome roof, only the foundation remains after it was destroyed during the war. During the Nazi era, large crowds gathered here to listen to Hitler’s speeches. It is a significant tourist site that symbolizes both the rise and fall of the Nazi regime in Nuremberg.

21. Nuremberg Historical Underground Passageways

Near the base of the rocky hill where Nuremberg Castle stands, there is a tourist tour that allows visitors to explore an underground maze. These passageways were built around the 7th century and were used as air-raid shelters and to store Nuremberg’s precious treasures during World War II. The dark, cool interior, with its stone corridors seemingly leading nowhere, truly feels like a labyrinth. You can explore these tunnels with the guidance of a tour guide.

These underground passages were also used as beer breweries in the 13th century, and a large portion of the beer consumed in Nuremberg was brewed here. Some of the brewery remains are still visible today, and there are tours that offer a taste of Nuremberg’s famous red beer after the visit. Visitors must join a guided tour to enter these passageways. There are various types of tours available, so make sure to pick one that suits your interest.

22. Nuremberg Natural History Museum

Located in the eastern part of Nuremberg’s Old Town, the Nuremberg Natural History Museum is a fascinating tourist destination with a wide range of exhibits spanning ethnology, geology, and archaeology. It houses collections from all over the world, including Europe, Siberia, and Costa Rica.

The museum has a long history, dating back to 1801 when members of the Natural History Society opened a museum in a private house for financial reasons. The house was affectionately called "House of Flowers" at the time. After several relocations, the museum finally settled in its current location.

Nearby, you can also visit the lush park called Wöhrder Wiese, located along the Pegnitz River. It's a perfect spot to rest and enjoy a relaxing nap on the grassy field after a day of sightseeing in Nuremberg.

23. City Park

City Park, located in the northwestern suburbs of Nuremberg’s Old Town, has a history of over 100 years. It boasts a large pond, children's playgrounds, and a symbolic fountain with a giant marble sculpture, making it a popular relaxation spot for Nuremberg residents. For tourists, the main attraction is the Schiller Memorial, which was built to commemorate the singing festival held in 1912. The ducks around the pond are used to humans, making it a fun place for children as well.

24. Weißgerbergasse

Weißgerbergasse is a small street located west of St. Sebaldus Church, meaning "White and Yellow Alley". Along this street, you’ll find half-timbered houses painted in white and yellow, with colorful flowers adorning the windows, creating a charming and picturesque atmosphere. All the buildings are still in use, with bars, beauty salons, and small souvenir shops located on the ground floor.

Though relatively modest and not widely covered in tourist guides, it’s a local favorite and a recommended spot to visit.

As you walk down this street, you’ll eventually see an iron bridge crossing the Pegnitz River. This is the Kettensteg Bridge, built in 1824, and is the oldest chain bridge in Europe. Although it sways a bit as you walk across, it’s still in use and another must-see in Nuremberg.

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◎ Summary

Nuremberg, surrounded by city walls and crossed by the Pegnitz River, is a beautiful city with many striking bridges. The tourist spots are concentrated in the Old Town, making it an easy city to explore. The city’s medieval appearance was almost entirely destroyed during World War II but was restored through the efforts of Nuremberg’s citizens after the war, adding depth to its history. Nuremberg is a precious destination where visitors can explore the remnants of the medieval era while learning about the darker aspects of its history, such as the Nazi period. Be sure to visit Nuremberg!

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A Toy Box Full of History! 24 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Nuremberg