3-Day Festive Getaway in Nuremberg, Germany for Christmas

Nuremberg, Germany

3 days

Winter night
Christmas by the river
Christmas market
Christmas market
Sebald Church at Christmas

About Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg, Germany, is a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modern life. The city's medieval architecture, including the imposing Nuremberg Castle, transports you back in time, while the bustling Hauptmarkt offers a taste of local life. Explore the poignant history of WWII at the Nuremberg Trials Memorial and Documentation Center. For art lovers, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum houses an extensive collection of German art and culture. Don't miss the Toy Museum, a testament to Nuremberg's long-standing toy manufacturing tradition. Enjoy local delicacies like Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread at cozy taverns. Nuremberg, with its enchanting Christmas markets, is particularly magical in winter.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Christmas Market and Nuremberg Castle

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Nuremberg Christmas Market, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world. Here, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere, browse through the stalls selling traditional German Christmas crafts and decorations, and taste the delicious Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and mulled wine.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch at a local restaurant in the city center. Try some of the local specialties such as Nuremberg sausages and sauerkraut.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Nuremberg Castle, a significant symbol of the city. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the Sinwell Tower.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant in the old town. Try some Franconian dishes such as Schäufele (pork shoulder) and Klöße (potato dumplings).

Evening

End your day with a stroll through the beautifully illuminated city center, enjoying the festive decorations and the magical atmosphere of the Christmas season.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, the largest museum of cultural history in the German-speaking region. Here, you can explore the rich history and culture of Germany from prehistoric times to the present.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the museum. Try some traditional German dishes such as Sauerbraten (pot roast) and Kartoffelsalat (potato salad).

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Nuremberg Toy Museum. Here, you can explore the history of toys from the Middle Ages to the present day, and even try out some of the toys yourself.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the city center. Try some Franconian wine and traditional German desserts such as Apfelstrudel (apple strudel).

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Nuremberg Opera House for a Christmas concert or ballet performance. Enjoy the beautiful music and the festive atmosphere.

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a museum that provides a comprehensive history of the Nazi Party in Nuremberg and Germany as a whole.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the museum. Try some traditional German dishes such as Bratwurst (grilled sausage) and Pretzels.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a walk through the historic City Walls of Nuremberg. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and the peaceful atmosphere.

Dinner

Enjoy your final dinner at a local restaurant in the old town. Try some Franconian specialties such as Karpfen (carp) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread).

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Nuremberg Ice Rink. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and have fun ice skating under the stars.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Nuremberg Christmas Market

1
Nuremberg Christmas Market

The Nuremberg Christmas Market is a festive event held annually in the Old Town of Nuremberg. It's one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Shopping
Nuremberg Castle

2
Nuremberg Castle

Nuremberg Castle is a historic castle complex in Nuremberg, offering panoramic views of the city. It's one of the most important imperial palaces of the Middle Ages.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Germanisches Nationalmuseum

3
Germanisches Nationalmuseum

The Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg is Germany's largest museum of cultural history, housing an extensive collection of over 1.3 million items.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Nuremberg Toy Museum

4
Nuremberg Toy Museum

The Nuremberg Toy Museum is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of toys, showcasing a collection of toys from the Middle Ages to the present.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Nuremberg Opera House

5
Nuremberg Opera House

The Nuremberg Opera House is one of the largest opera houses in Germany, known for its impressive performances and beautiful architecture.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

6
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is a museum in Nuremberg that documents the history of the Nazi Party and its activities in Nuremberg.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
City Walls

7
City Walls

The City Walls of Nuremberg are historic walls that surround the city's Old Town, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Nuremberg Ice Rink

8
Nuremberg Ice Rink

The Nuremberg Ice Rink is a popular sports and entertainment venue in Nuremberg, offering ice skating for all ages and skill levels.

Sports
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Nürnberger Rostbratwurst

Nürnberger Rostbratwurst

A famous Nuremberg dish, these are small, thin sausages made from coarsely ground pork. They are traditionally grilled over a beechwood fire and served in sets of six or twelve.

Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen

Nuremberg is known as the 'Lebkuchen capital of the world'. Lebkuchen is a type of gingerbread that is often spiced with cloves, nutmeg, and other spices, and sweetened with honey.

Franconian Wine

Franconian Wine

This is a popular local wine from the Franconian region, which Nuremberg is a part of. The wine is known for its distinctive bottle shape, called a 'Bocksbeutel'.

Schäufele

Schäufele

A traditional Franconian dish, Schäufele is a pork shoulder that is roasted until the skin is crispy. It is often served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut.

Bratwurstglocklein

Bratwurstglocklein

A unique Nuremberg sausage that is served in a small, bell-shaped bun. The sausage is typically seasoned with marjoram and garlic.

Drei im Weggla

Drei im Weggla

A popular street food in Nuremberg, Drei im Weggla is a roll filled with three Nuremberg sausages and mustard.

Franconian Beer

Franconian Beer

Nuremberg is located in Franconia, a region known for its beer. There are many different types of Franconian beer, but the most popular are the lagers and wheat beers.

Kartoffelklöße

Kartoffelklöße

These are traditional German potato dumplings, often served as a side dish with meat. They are a staple in Nuremberg cuisine.

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish that is a staple in German cuisine. In Nuremberg, it is often served as a side dish with sausages or pork.

Apfelstrudel

Apfelstrudel

A popular dessert in Nuremberg, Apfelstrudel is a pastry filled with apples, sugar, and cinnamon. It is often served with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Glühwein

Glühwein

Glühwein, or mulled wine, is a popular drink in Nuremberg, especially during the Christmas season. It is made from red wine, heated and spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and citrus.

Obatzda

Obatzda

A traditional Bavarian cheese dish, Obatzda is a spread made from Camembert cheese, butter, and spices. It is often served with pretzels or bread in Nuremberg.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Nuremberg, Germany is from June to August when the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in experiencing the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market, you should plan your visit in late November or December. Please note that it can be quite cold during this time, so pack accordingly.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday (regional holiday)

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday (regional holiday)

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

August 8

Thu

Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

September 20

Fri

German World Children's Day (Thuringia)

October 3

Thu

Day of German Unity

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day (regional holiday)

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

November 20

Wed

Repentance Day (Saxony)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Nuremberg has an extensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (underground railway). The U-Bahn is particularly useful for getting around the city center and reaching outlying areas. Tickets can be purchased at machines at each station, and should be validated before boarding.

Ridesharing services such as Uber are available in Nuremberg. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. However, availability can vary, especially during peak times.

Nuremberg is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. Bicycles can be rented from various locations throughout the city, making this an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to explore Nuremberg at your own pace.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding region of Nuremberg. However, parking can be challenging in the city center, and many areas are pedestrian-only. It's also worth noting that Germany has strict driving laws, so make sure you're familiar with these before getting behind the wheel.

Taxis are readily available in Nuremberg, either at taxi stands, by hailing one on the street, or by booking one in advance. They offer a convenient, though often more expensive, way to get around the city.

Many of Nuremberg's main attractions are located within a compact area in the city center, making walking a viable option. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of signage and pedestrian zones.

Nuremberg's central train station, Hauptbahnhof, is a major transportation hub, with connections to other German cities and international destinations. This can be a convenient option if you're planning to take day trips from Nuremberg.

Nuremberg Airport is located just a few kilometers from the city center, and is easily accessible by public transportation. There are also airport shuttle services available, which can be a convenient option if you're traveling with a lot of luggage or prefer a direct route to your accommodation.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Nuremberg, Germany as a first time visitor

1

Nuremberg is located in the German state of Bavaria, which has its own distinct culture and traditions.

2

The official language is German, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

4

Nuremberg is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

5

The city has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), while winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing.

6

Public transportation in Nuremberg is excellent. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and an underground system.

7

Tipping is customary in Germany. A tip of around 10% is standard in restaurants and for taxi drivers.

8

Nuremberg is a safe city, but like any other major city, it's advisable to take standard precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas.

9

The city has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.

10

Nuremberg is known for its hearty Bavarian cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties like Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread.

11

The city has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

12

Nuremberg is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services.

13

The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many green spaces and initiatives to reduce environmental impact.

14

Nuremberg has a rich history and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.

15

The city is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the Nuremberg Christmas Market.

16

Shopping in Nuremberg offers a mix of high-end boutiques, department stores, and local markets.

17

Germany operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Make sure your devices are compatible or bring a travel adapter.

18

Tap water in Nuremberg is safe to drink, and bottled water is readily available.

19

Germany has a universal healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for visitors.

20

Nuremberg is a walkable city, but comfortable shoes are recommended as many streets are cobblestone.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

Ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

Owf veeder-zayn

Saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

Bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

Dahn-kuh

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

Yah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nein

Nine

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

Ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

Ish fer-shtay-uh nikht

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

Shprekhen zee Eng-lish?

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Wo ist die Toilette?

Vo ist dee Toi-lette?

Finding a restroom

I'm lost

Ich habe mich verlaufen

Ish ha-beh mikh fer-lofen

When you are lost

Help

Hilfe

Hil-fe

In case of emergency

Call the police

Rufen Sie die Polizei

Roofen zee dee Poli-tzai

In case of emergency

I need a doctor

Ich brauche einen Arzt

Ish brow-kheh i-nen artst

When you need medical assistance

Can I have the menu, please?

Kann ich bitte die Speisekarte haben?

Kan ish bit-te dee shpy-zeh-kar-teh ha-ben?

At a restaurant

I would like to order

Ich möchte bestellen

Ish mohk-teh bestell-en

At a restaurant

Water

Wasser

Vas-ser

At a restaurant or shop

Beer

Bier

Beer

At a restaurant or shop

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

Vee feel kost-et das?

When shopping

Where is...?

Wo ist...?

Vo ist...?

Asking for directions

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (3 pairs)

  • Socks (3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (3)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if applicable)

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover (if applicable)

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Airline tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Guidebook or map

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if applicable)

  • Charger for camera (if applicable)

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

Weather Conditions

Nuremberg, Germany, experiences a temperate seasonal climate, which means the weather can vary significantly depending on the time of year you visit. If you're planning a trip in the winter months, from December to February, be prepared for cold weather. Temperatures can drop to around 32°F (0°C) or lower, so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Snowfall is common during this period, which can add a magical touch to the city's historical sites but might disrupt travel plans. Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, offer milder weather. Temperatures typically range between 45°F (7°C) and 60°F (15°C), so a medium-weight jacket should suffice. These seasons can be quite rainy, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or a raincoat. Summer, from June to August, is the warmest time of year, with temperatures often reaching up to 75°F (24°C). However, it can occasionally get hotter, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Don't forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. And remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's wise to pack layers that you can add or remove as needed. Lastly, keep in mind that the weather can affect local attractions. For example, outdoor sites like the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg are more enjoyable in good weather, while museums and indoor attractions can be great options for rainy or overly cold days. Enjoy your trip to Nuremberg!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -3°

January is the coldest month in Nuremberg, with frequent snowfall. Dress warmly and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

February

6° / -2°

February is still quite cold, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time for indoor activities and museum visits.

March

11° / 0°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time for sightseeing.

April

16° / 3°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

May

20° / 7°

May brings warmer temperatures and the city is in full bloom. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and city tours.

June

23° / 10°

June marks the beginning of summer, with long, sunny days. Enjoy outdoor festivals and events during this time.

July

25° / 12°

July is the warmest month in Nuremberg. It's a perfect time for picnics in the park and exploring the city's historical sites.

August

24° / 12°

August is still quite warm, with plenty of sunshine. Enjoy the city's beer gardens and outdoor dining options.

September

20° / 9°

September sees the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and nature walks.

October

14° / 5°

October is a cool month with beautiful autumn colors. It's a great time to visit the city's museums and historical sites.

November

8° / 1°

November is a chilly month, with shorter days. It's a good time to explore the city's indoor attractions and Christmas markets.

December

5° / -1°

December is a festive month in Nuremberg, with the famous Christmas Market. Dress warmly and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

Did you know?

Did you know that Nuremberg is the second-largest city in Bavaria, after Munich, with a population of over 500,000 people?

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