Nuremberg Local History

Founded in the eleventh century Nuremberg quickly became the unofficial capital of Germany. It's position at the intersection of the north-south and east-west trade routes led to economic prosperity and political power. The arts flourished also but the most brilliant period came in the 15th and 16th centuries when the Renaissance came into its own.

After that Nuremberg went into something of a decline until the 19th century when it took on a central role in German politics and played host to the Nazi Party. Unfortunately the Third Reich focused much of their energies towards the City so that even today the city's image is tarnished by association with the regime

In the minds of most people the word Nuremberg conjures up the Nazi mass rallies and the subsequent War Trials. After World War 11 the city was forced to confront its historical role before moving on into the future. The Authorities are now making a great effort to help visitors to attempt to understand

Nuremberg Attractions

Top Attractions

Nuremberg Shopping

Hauptmarkt - This charming large medieval square in the old town is the scene of a daily fresh produce market. You will find the freshest fruit, veg, flowers and local specialities. At Christmas it transforms to a colouful night market with all sorts of Christmas goodies.

Karstadt - Located in the old town at Lorenzkirche and accessable from the tube station. The top department store in the city. All the top international names in clothing, beauty and food are represented and they showcase the best of German made goods.

Emotions - This is one for the ladies and next door to Karstadt. The elegant shop caters for the modern woman and offers every comfort from lingerie, makeup and natural foods and when you're shopped out there is Cafe Expressimo to relax.

Buchhandlung Jakob - The popular book shop is situated in Karolinenstrasse in the old town. Booklovers of all ages assemble here to browse and purchase books from the well stocked shelfs.

The Lorenzer Laden Lorenzkirche. All the goods in this store are intended to promote fair trade around the world. Buying fair trade crafts, jewelry and chocolate can help people in economically deprived Third World Countries, which provide many of the items for sale here. All of the staff in the shop work on a voluntary basis.

Christkindles Hauptmarkt. If you are visiting in winter do not miss the month long Christmas market held in the city. All sorts of local crafts, food, beers and wine are on sale in this colourful market.

Nuremberg Activities

Handwerkerhof - Located in the old city opposite the Frauentorturm and is a charming shopping area that reminds the visitor of days past. Lots of handcrafted goods on offer many appealing to children. The goods reflect the town's toy making traditions.

Spielzeugmuseum - In complete contrast, this museum depicts innocent childhood. The city has a toy making tradition and this interesting museum in the old town traces the 3,000 year old industry. Plenty of exhibits are hands on and nostalgia rules here.

The Bibelerlebnishaus - The Bible Experience is a unique museum located in the old town at Lorenzkirche. Learn all sorts of information about the greatest book ever written. You can go on a guided tour if you wish.

The Freilandaquarium - Situated just outside the city just off the B145 in the direction of Ansbach. The Aquarium houses many fish species and thrills children and is also home to child friendly animals like rabbits, frogs and tortoises in a suitable environment.

Nuremberg Restaurants and Bars

Nuremberg Restaurants

Steakhaus Ekuthek - Situated in the Frankenzentrum at Langwasser. A city institution and very popular, this modern restaurant cooks meat to perfection to your requirements, but they also offer vegetarian alternatives. In the summer they have a charming garden.

Barfusser - This is a huge brewery next to the Lorenzkirche in the old town. Popular with visitors and locals alike, not only for the delicious homemade beer, but they serve local, tasty dishes in abundance. A must do if you are in the city.

Nassauer Keller - Housed in the basement of an atmospheric 13th century building, this is one of the oldest pubs in the country and is also located in the old town at Lorenzkirche. Great local cuisine with fish and game meats thrown in. A fine selection of beer and wine, but it's busy so booking might be an idea.

Gaststatte Schranke "Schlenkerla" - Situated opposite Albrecht-Durer-Haus in the old city. He probably used to pop in for a break from his painting and would have enjoyed the hearty fare on offer. Great choice of beer and wine and the service is second to none.
Balazzo Brozzi Hochstr. 2. If you want a cheap and decent breakfast head to this cafe.

Cafe Kroll Hauptmarkt. One of the best Kaffee und Kuchen cafes in Nuremberg This place has a terrace overlooking the main square so you can include people watching in your time here.

Bratwurst Hausle Rathausplatz 1. This restaurant has a huge chimney for grilling the sausages. Although it only has a small menu this is one sausage restaurant that should not be missed.

Heilig-Geist-Sptal Spitalgasse 12. Based in a medieval hospital this restaurant is very atmospheric. And serves excellent food

Nuremberg Bars & Clubs

Rock-Cafe Brown Sugar Konigstorgraben 3. A serious heavy metal bar considered the best of the many in Nuremberg; the bar also has pinball machine and videos for the headbanger's that come here.

Mach 1 Kaiserstr. 1-9. A trendy nightspot with 4 different bars and good lighting effects.

Lederer-Kulturbrauerei Sielsstr. The beer here comes from the Lederer brewery next door. It had a huge beer garden and serves traditional local food.

Starclub Maxtorgraben 33. This music bar cum beer garden serves

Nuremberg Weekend Breaks

Top 10 things to do in Nuremberg for a weekend.

• Germanic National Museum
• Toy Museum
• Christmas Market
• St Lorenz Church
• Le Meridien Grand Hotel

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