Go Back In Time in Nuremberg

City of World War II history and Christmas Markets

Overview

When most people think of Nuremberg, they think of the infamous war crimes tribunals that took place here between 1945 and 1946. German officials who participated in the Holocaust were brought here to answer for their crimes, and the city itself was chosen largely because the Nazi Party held their rallies here, and laws passed stripping Jewish citizens of their rights were passed here.

Despite this dark chapter in Nuremberg’s history, the town was rebuilt and restored after the Second World War into the modern yet classically stunning medieval town it is today. Visitors to Nuremberg will find plenty to enjoy here, and history buffs will appreciate Nuremburg’s rich history.

Nuremberg significantly advanced the astrological movement through the work of Johannes Mueller, who built an observatory here. Like many European cities at the time, arts and culture played a significant part in the city’s history. The Nuremberg Academy of Fine Arts is the oldest in central Europe, and resident Martin Behaim is even credited with developing the first world globe.

Your River Cruise Ship Docks…

River cruise ships dock along the river in Nuremberg, located outside the city center along the Hafenstrasse. Because of its remote location, shuttles are usually provided to transport guests to and from the Nuremberg City Centre. If it’s a nice day, there is a S-Bahn station located about 15 to 20 minutes away by foot that can take you further afar.

When in Nuremberg…

Nuremberg’s wonderfully historic sights span from medieval to modern, and the result is an almost storybook-like appearance that is sure to delight during your time here.

Don’t Miss

• Nuremberg Castle towers over the city, and is composed of three distinct buildings, one of which dates back to 1050. Entry to the castle is available for €6, but all outside areas are free of charge. There is a guided tour of the Castle, but it is only conducted in German.
• The Hospice of the Holy Spirit (Heilig-Geist-Spital) dates from 1332 and is one of the world’s oldest Medieval hospitals. It remains a working care facility to this day. Located along the banks of the Pegnitz River, this centrally located site is worth the visit just for the photographic opportunity.
• The Henkersteg, or Hangman’s Bridge, was used in the middle ages for the exact purpose its name suggests. Today, it represents an incredible image of Nuremberg during medieval times and makes for a great photographic opportunity.
• Nuremberg was the site of Germany’s first steam locomotive (ironically built by the British) and railroad, and as such, The German Rail Museum is a must-see for train buffs interested in the history of German and European railroading.
• The Documentation Centre at the Reich Party Rally Grounds (Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände) is an important part of Nuremberg’s history. The documentation center showcases the mammoth rallies that were held here by the Nazi party and how they affected the mindset of the German people, eventually leading to one of the worst atrocities in modern history. The guided audio tour (€5) is well worth it for English-speaking visitors.
• History buffs visiting Nuremberg on the weekend may want to visit Courtroom 600, the site of the Nuremberg Trials. Located on Fürther Straße 110, admission to the famous courtroom is available as part of a guided tour that runs every hour between 1pm and 4pm, Saturday and Sunday. The tour is conducted in German, but English guests are still likely to enjoy the experience as well.
• The Dolphinarium is sure to be a hit with families. Located at Am Tiergarten 30, the Dolphinarium is the first outdoor dolphin viewing center in Germany. Admission is €4.50 for adults, €2 for kids.
• Nuremberg is widely known for its traditional Gingerbread (Lebkuchen), which can be eaten right on the spot or taken home as a tasty souvenir.
• On the liquid front, Nuremberg is home to plenty of excellent breweries. Find yourself a tavern and order up a local pint along with some Nürnberger Bratwürste (Nuremberg Bratwurst) for a true local experience!
• While it’s unlikely you’ll want to leave Nuremberg, those who have already visited this beautiful city may want to take the high-speed ICE train to nearby Munich – a journey which can be completed in just one hour from Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof station.

River Cruisers Should Know!

• While you’re likely to find plenty of citizens who speak English, but knowledge of basic German phrases will go a long way.
• The Euro is the official currency of Germany. Other currencies can be exchanged at major banks and financial institutions.
• Crime is generally not an issue in Nuremberg, but it pays to exercise the same degree of caution you would in any city, particularly late at night. Still, you’re not likely to have any problems in this friendly city.

Read more about Nuremberg on River Cruise Advisor

[catlist id=16 numberposts=-1]