Nuremberg Old Town (Altstadt)
Altstadt, Nuremberg, DEU
Nuremberg’s picturesque Old Town (“Altstadt”), located inside the city’s medieval walls, has been lovingly restored after being bombed during World War II. This walkable historical heart is home to picturesque half-timbered houses, a bustling square (Hauptmarkt), the Frauenkirche, Nuremberg Castle, and the Schöner Brunnen fountain.
The easiest way to explore Nuremberg Old Town’s highlights is to go on a guided tour. Travelers seeking a more personalized service typically choose a private guided tour to uncover Old Town gems—such as St. Lorenz Church, the Main Market Square, Albrecht Dürer’s House, Nuremberg Castle, and the Chapel of Our Lady. As well as the Old Town, some tours also showcase World War II sites—such as the Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
Nuremberg’s Old Town is accessible to wheelchair users, but please be aware that the ground is made of cobblestones, so some areas may be uneven to travel on.
The Old Town has pedestrianized areas, which makes it the perfect place to explore on foot.
Fans of historical architecture should check out three important churches in the Old Town—St. Lorenz Church, St. Sebaldus Church, and The Church of Our Lady.
The Weissgerbergasse in the Old Town is the perfect place to eat out—it has a range of restaurants, including cafes, international cuisine, and traditional Franconian food.
It’s easy to get to Nuremberg’s Old Town if you’re exploring the city on foot. Just look out for the Pegnitz River, which splits the center of the town. If you want to walk around the perimeter of the Old Town—you can follow the old medieval wall and its historic gates. From Nuremberg’s Central Station, you can either get the U-Bahn (U1) to Lorenzkirche or enjoy a leisurely 9-minute walk.
Nuremberg’s Old Town is beautiful to walk around any time of the year, but it’s arguably at its best during the annual Christmas Market. If visiting during the week, check out the Hauptmarkt—a buzzing marketplace that hosts stalls throughout the week—usually Mondays through Saturday from morning until mid-afternoon.
Widely considered one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets, the Nuremberg Christmas Market (Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt) dates back to 1628. This joyful festive celebration typically takes place from the start of December until Christmas Eve. It is home to over 180 wooden market stalls selling handmade decorations, mulled wine (gluhwein), grilled sausages, gingerbread, and delicious local treats.
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