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Our European road trip kicked off in the charming medieval town of Nuremberg, Germany—a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and adventure. After landing in Frankfurt, we hopped on a train to Nuremberg, where the excitement truly began! The journey was a scenic 2-hour ride, giving us a first taste of the picturesque landscapes of Bavaria. While the train journey was a simple, efficient way to get to Nuremberg, we’ll dive deeper into tips for purchasing tickets and navigating the local transport system later.
Once in Nuremberg, we wasted no time soaking in the historic Old Town, wandering the cobblestone streets and exploring the iconic Nuremberg Castle with its towering walls and panoramic views. We stayed in a charming hotel that captured the city’s character, and from there, explored all that Nuremberg has to offer on foot.
Keep reading as we guide you through our Nuremberg adventure, offering highlights, travel tips, and insider advice for an unforgettable start to your own European road trip!
HOW TO GET FROM FRANKFURT AIRPORT TO NUREMBURG
Frankfort Airport has its own train terminal. To get to Nuremberg from Frankfurt, Airport we recommend purchasing your train tickets through the Deutsche Bahn (DB) website, Germany’s national railway company. It's easy to use, and you can select your seat at the time of reservation. A one-way ticket typically costs around 20 - 40 Euros, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers. The journey takes about 2 hours, offering a comfortable and scenic ride through the heart of Germany. You can also buy tickets in person directly at the airport’s train station using the ticket machines or visiting a DB ticket kiosk. However, keep in mind that tickets bought on the day of travel are typically more expensive than those purchased in advance.
A TRAVEL HICCUP: A LESSON IN PATIENCE AND PROBLEM-SOLVING
Our adventure didn’t start quite as smoothly as we’d hoped. After landing at Frankfurt, Airport, a delay in parking at the gate caused us to miss our pre-purchased train to Nuremberg. We were eager to hit the road, but sometimes, travel doesn’t go as planned. The first person we approached at a kiosk told us our tickets were non-refundable and we’d need to buy new ones. However, not wanting to give up so easily, I decided to try a different kiosk. Fortunately, the second representative was incredibly helpful, rebooking us on the next train without any hassle. The lesson? Sometimes, a little persistence and knowing who to ask can turn a frustrating moment into a smooth solution.
WHERE TO STAY IN NUREMBERG, GERMANY: STAY IN THE HEART OF OLD TOWN
For the most convenient and enjoyable experience in Nuremberg, we highly recommend staying in the Old Town (Altstadt). This area is the city's historic center, where all the major sights and attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the city at your own pace.
During our visit, we stayed at Hotel das Paul Restaurant & Hotel, which offered an incredibly central location and was within walking distance to all the key sights. This hotel is perfect for families traveling together, offering apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes for added convenience. It’s also an excellent choice for couples or solo travelers looking for a comfortable base.
As is typical in Europe, the hotel had lots of stairs and no elevator, but the charm and central location made it all worthwhile. We had a wonderful stay here and would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Nuremberg!
EXPLORING OLD TOWN: KEY THINGS TO DO IN NUREMBERG, GERMANY
DISCOVER NUREMBERG CASTLE AND BURGGARTEN
Everything we experienced in Nuremberg was on foot, essentially creating our own walking tour of this charming city. One of the top things to do in Nuremberg, Germany is visit the Nuremberg Castle, where we were treated to breathtaking views overlooking the entire city. Inside the castle grounds, we discovered a quaint little restaurant with outdoor seating, where we enjoyed aBavarian beer as we soaked in the historical atmosphere.
After exploring the castle, we continued our stroll and found ourselves in the picturesque Burggarten—a magical garden surrounding the castle walls. The tranquil beauty of the garden, with its lush greenery and peaceful ambiance, was a hidden gem that felt almost more enchanting than the Imperial Palace itself. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the city’s serene side.
WANDER THROUGH WEIBGERBERGASSE AND ST. SEBALD CHURCH
We then stumbled upon the picturesque street Weißgerbergasse, a charming little spot known for its colorful, historic buildings. It’s the perfect place for a quick stroll and a photo op, taking no more than 15 minutes to fully explore.
As you continue to explore, find yourself at St. Sebald Church, an awe-inspiring Gothic-era structure. The church’s towering presence is impossible to miss, with its stunning stained glass windows, grand pipe organ, and soaring cathedral ceiling that will leave you speechless.
NUREMBERG'S MAIN MARKET SQUARE AND MUST TRY RESTAURANTS
At this point, we were absolutely starving and decided to stop in Die Wirtschaft, a welcoming yet refined pub offering delicious Franconian dishes. We indulged in the iconic Nuremberg Bratwurst, hearty pork shoulder, and a rotating selection of seasonal specialties. The meal quickly became one of my favorites in all of Germany—no small feat considering the incredible food we had throughout the trip!
The Die Wirtschaft restaurant is conveniently located right by the Schöner Brunnen, a stunning 14th-century fountain that stands as a historical landmark in Nuremberg’s main market square. The square is alive with bustling food stalls, artisan vendors, and tents selling local crafts and souvenirs. At the heart of it all is the Frauenkirche, an impressive church that invites exploration with its beautiful architecture. This square is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in the culture, food, and sights of Nuremberg all in one place.
After a day of wandering and getting delightfully lost in the streets of Nuremberg we decided to try Trödelstuben Restaurant for dinner. A cozy, old-fashioned spot known for its hearty meat dishes, sausage platters, and delicious strudel. Of course, no meal is complete without a glass of Bavarian draft beer to wash it all down!
EXPLORING NUREMBERG'S WORLD WAR II HISTORY: TRIALS, NAZI RALLIES, AND THE BATTLE OF NUREMBERG
Nuremberg, Germany, holds a profound place in World War II history, making it a must-visit for history buffs. The city was not only a major hub for the infamous Nazi rallies but also a significant site during and after the war. The Nuremberg Trials, were groundbreaking, serving as the first international war crimes tribunal that prosecuted key leaders of Nazi Party.
The city also saw intense urban combat during the war. The Battle of Nuremberg in 1945 lasted five grueling days, as the United States 7th Army fought to capture the city from Nazi Germany. Walking through the streets today, it's hard to imagine the fierce fighting and destruction that once occurred here.
For those interested in this aspect of Nuremberg's history, consider visiting the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where you can explore exhibits detailing the rise and fall of the Nazi regime. Additionally, the historic Palace of Justice, where the trials took place, offers public guided tours and a museum where visitors can step back into this critical moment in history.
Nuremberg’s role in WWII provides a sobering yet fascinating layer to the city’s story, and exploring these sites adds a rich historical context to any visit.
WRAPPING UP OUR NUREMBERG ADVENTURE
Our time in Nuremberg was the perfect introduction to our European road trip, blending history, charming streets, and unforgettable food. From exploring the medieval Old Town to relaxing with a Bavarian beer, we made memories that will last a lifetime. Our journey continues as we head to Munich, where we’ll share the ins and outs of the world-famous beer festival, Oktoberfest!
