Things to Do in Nuremberg

Nuremberg strikes you immediately as a city that wears its complex history openly. The medieval Old Town, with its red-roofed buildings and imposing castle, sits alongside stark reminders of the Nazi era and the subsequent war crimes trials. It's this juxtaposition that makes the city fascinating - you'll find yourself walking from fairy-tale squares to sites of profound historical significance within minutes. The city has done something remarkable in how it presents both sides of its story, neither hiding from its darkest chapters nor letting them overshadow its medieval charm. Beyond the history, Nuremberg pulses with Bavarian culture - the Christmas markets are legendary, the bratwurst is a local obsession, and the beer gardens buzz with genuine gemütlichkeit.

Nuremberg's dining scene balances traditional Franconian cuisine with modern interpretations and international options. You'll find the city's famous bratwurst at traditional restaurants like Bratwurst Röslein, but don't miss the opportunity to try schäufele (roasted pork shoulder) and sauerbraten. The Old Town has plenty of tourist-oriented restaurants, but venture into neighborhoods like Gostenhof or St. Johannis for more authentic local spots. Beer gardens are essential during warmer months, and many serve simple but excellent regional dishes alongside local brews from breweries like Tucher and Altstadthof.

December transforms Nuremberg into a winter wonderland with one of Germany's most famous Christmas markets, but expect crowds and higher prices. Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable tourist numbers. Summer brings beer garden season and outdoor festivals, though temperatures can be surprisingly warm. Winter outside of the Christmas market period can be gray and cold, but you'll have major attractions largely to yourself and hotel prices drop significantly.