From the storybook sweep of half-timbered houses on Weissgerbergasse to the infamous rally ground used by the Nazis in World War II, Nuremberg is an open-air museum of history through the ages.
History, old and new
Climb the hill to Nuremberg Castle for panoramic views of the Aldtstadt, translated as the old town. Step inside this imperial palace, built for Roman Emperors, to find 16th-century paintings and the fascinating Kaiserburg Museum.
Start at Nuremberg’s castle and wander down the so-called historical mile. This ancient street takes you past gabled facades and boutique stores, over stone bridges crossing the river, through lively markets in idyllic squares, and alongside ornately decorated churches that pierce the sky. Admire the Weinstadel, a medieval wine warehouse perched on the water, and the 15th-century city walls, which are studded with imposing gatehouses.
One of Nuremberg’s most famous monuments is the Reichsparteigelande, once the Nazi party’s rally grounds. This imposing building is like a monolithic amphitheater, and though it remains incomplete it’s no less atmospheric. Step into this venue and pause to contemplate Germany’s turbulent past, looking from the vast Zeppelinfield arena to the cold, concrete grandstands.
‘Tis the season
During the festive months, head to the Hauptmarkt square, where one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets comes to life in a twinkle of holiday lights. Stroll past wooden huts selling hand-crafted toys and woodwork, and sample the famous spiced gingerbread to get in the spirit while carolers sing a seasonal soundtrack.
Stop for a quick bite
No trip to Nuremberg is complete without sampling Rostbratwurst, the city’s staple food. Visit a traditional bratwurst kitchen, such as Bratwurstglöcklein im Handwerkerhof, for an authentic serving of this sausage snack.
For a taste of the Middle Ages, pay a visit to Zum Gulden Stern, where steak and sausage dishes are topped with tangy sauerkraut and freshly grated horseradish.
A romantic road trip to remember
Roughly an hour and 20 minute drive from Nuremberg will take you to the baroque city of Würzburg and the beginning of Germany’s Romantic Road. Würzburg itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and leads on to one of the most spectacular drives in the country.
When you’re journeying down the Romantic Road, stop off at Augsburg. Once a trade hub in the 16th century, this Roman settlement was named after Emperor Augustus and is the oldest city in Bavaria.
Along the way you’ll find Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a walled, medieval town iconic of Bavarian Germany. Pastel-colored houses line the cobbled streets, opening out into the main square where a delicate fountain stands in front of the gothic town hall.
Finish your trip with a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle. Perched on a rocky outcrop with fairy tale turrets against a backdrop of snow-peaked mountains, this is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.
One of the final stops on the Romantic Road, spend some time exploring the fantastical interior of this enchanting structure. Designed by an eccentric Bavarian king, the opulent rooms are like a daydream come to life.
Whatever brings you to this enchanting area of Germany, make the most of your time in Nuremberg with a rental car from Hertz.
