Nuremberg

Nuremberg is mostly remembered in history as the city where Hitler rallied the nation with a philosophy for supremacy. Although later that would lead them along a path of destruction. But today, Bavaria’s second largest city has so much more it can be remembered by.

Built on the banks of the picturesque Pegnitz River. Nuremberg is a fascinating blend of charming medieval beauty and chic cosmopolitan modernity. Most of the attractions are centred in and around the delightful Altstadt. Fenced in by an imposing medieval wall and reinvented with large pedestrian walkways. It is filled with antique craft shops and chic boutiques. At Christmas the city’s main market is transformed into the world famous Christkindlmarkt. An impressive open-air market and the oldest in a long-standing German tradition.

One of the most visited centres of Nuremberg is the shopping district of Lorenzerplatz. Which is dominated by the spectacular Gothic structure of St. Lorenze Kirche (Church of St. Lawrence.). Explore the shops and stalls along the quaint cobbled side streets and admire the frothing waters of the beautiful wedding fountain.

Culture Vultures

Culture vultures will not be disappointed either with a string of world-class museums and art galleries. The best of Nuremberg’s museums is the Germanic National Museum focusing on German history and culture. For fans of modern art do not miss the Neues Museum fur Kunst und Design or the Kunsthalle.

If you need to escape the hustle of hectic city life, take some respite in the relaxing City Park. Stroll around the grounds or hire a bicycle and admire the serene landscape. Alternatively, try the Volkspark Marienberg a sprawling outdoor activity centre and home to the fascinating Zoological Gardens and Planetarium. As a matter of fact, this park is very popular with families.

Nuremberg’s vibrant and eclectic nightlife has to be experienced to be believed. Whilst heaving rock bars and throbbing hip-hop hang-outs compete for attention there are also a throng of live music venues showcasing talented jazz musicians and the up and coming bands of the underground scene. Or if you’re looking for something more sophisticated, join the locals in the Viper Room. Nuremberg is geared towards tourism and there are plenty of inviting restaurants and comfortable hotels to attend to your every whim.

Travelling to Nuremberg by Ferry

Nuremberg is a long way away from any coastline. It will in fact take 6 hours of driving in any direction to reach the ocean if you live in Nuremberg. So if your planning  to drive from the UK to Nuremberg you’ll need to plan for between a 6-8 hour drive.

Since there is no ferries to Germany from the UK, you’ll probably to go via Holland, Denmark, Belgium or France. Going via France will give you a shorter ferry crossing, though a longer drive in Europe. The overnight ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam is ideal for anyone living in the north, you’ll arrive refreshed in Amsterdam in time for the 6 hour drive to Nuremberg. If your going by ferry then train, then you’ll need to know that there is no direct trains to Nuremberg from any of the ports, though you’ll get from Amsterdam with just one change.