Nuremberg is Bavaria’s second-largest city and is famous for its exciting nightlife, as well as its rich history. It makes for a fascinating and charming setting for people of all ages to have a getaway. In one of the most picturesque counties of Germany, this Bavarian jewel is renowned for its cuisine, beers, and markets (and Christmas markets!), making it the perfect place to get a taste of quintessential German culture.
However, there’s a wide range of accommodation. And so many fascinating areas of the city to choose from, it’s an all-important decision on where to stay in Nuremberg.
From nightlife hotspots to quaint medieval streets, this article lists all the best places to visit in Nuremberg, and highlights where to stay in Nuremberg so that these attractions can be right on your doorstep! Whether you’re looking for a luxurious retreat, an inspiring adventure, or a budget getaway, I’ve got you covered!
Without further ado, here’s your easy, step-by-step guide to help make YOUR decision about where to stay in Nuremberg – as straightforward and stress-free as possible!
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Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our top recommendations for places to stay in Nuremberg.
Riverside Apartment | Best Airbnb in Nuremberg
Get ready for a special stay in Nuremberg’s oldest residential building. With modern rooms set in a historic sandstone building, this stunning Airbnb offers a unique insight to this city. Located south of the river, right on the bank, you’ll be centrally located within walking distance to some of the city’s top sights like Nuremberg Castle. Come back and enjoy a coffee by the water.
Five Reasons Hostel | Best Hostel in Nuremberg
Here are five reasons to stay at Five Reasons: it’s cheap, located right next to the city wall (so not far from the old town), the staff are friendly, there’s an outdoor patio, and the option to book a private apartment if you prefer your own space! It’s got all the fittings to be the best hostel in the Nuremberg.
Sorat Hotel Saxx | Best Hotel in Nuremberg
If you’re looking for a slightly more luxurious stay, look no further than the Sorat Hotel Saxx. Not only is this fabulous hotel slap bang in the middle of Nuremberg’s famously beautiful and cultural Old Town, it is also equipped to meet all your needs. With all the usual amenities of a restaurant, coffee shop, and free WiFi, there’s also a hot tub and air conditioning available, making this modern hotel in Nuremberg a great choice.
Nuremberg Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Nuremberg
OLD TOWN
The Old Town of Nuremberg is packed full of heritage and interesting architecture, dating back from the medieval period. In the very center of the city, it’s easily accessible, and all of its attractions can be reached by foot, so it’s our top recommendation for where to stay in Nuremberg for your first time!
SUDSTADT
A little further out of the central hub of the city, but still with plenty going on, is Sudstadt, our top recommendation for where to stay in Nuremberg on a budget.
EGIDIENVIERTEL DISTRICT
If you like a bit of a boogie after your day of exploring this historical city, look no further than the Edigienviertel District. Located on the eastern side of the Old Town, this area is still at the very heart of the city, but stays just as lively after hours!
KNOBLAUCHSLAND DISTRICT
Filled with the affluence of the district’s agricultural heritage, Knoblauchsland is the best place to visit in Nuremberg if you want to see the less touristy – but certainly no less compelling – corners of this intricate city.
GOSTENHOF DISTRICT
Although this area may be a little out of the center of Nuremberg, it’s still the best place to stay in Nuremberg with kids. There are plenty of family-friendly activities to get involved in that will keep both the kids and parents entertained.
Nuremberg is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for somewhere both fascinating and breathtakingly beautiful. As the second-largest city in Bavaria – and with a population of over half a million – there is so much this city has to offer when you’re travelling around Germany.
Nuremberg has had a colorful and varied history, with parts of the city dating back to the medieval period. With constant development around the city’s suburbs, this is one of the most dynamic and exciting places to visit in Germany. From the affluence of its leather-making trade bringing it wealth and prosperity, evident by the intricate gothic and older buildings, there is so much to learn about this place. Its more recent history has a darker side thanks to its Nazi occupation. Many sites were used as venues for the Nazi trials, all of which can be visited and learned about on tours around the city.
Nuremberg is also rich in culture, with some of Europe’s most famous museums and theaters staging the most experimental and exciting shows to be seen in the region. With traditional cuisines such as the famous Nuremberg bratwurst, lebkuchen, and local beer, the city also has over 15 vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the city for you to enjoy.
For getting around, Nuremberg really is leaps and bounds ahead of other cities with similar popularity. The city’s tourism board has issued Nuremberg cards, allowing visitors free public transport and access to certain museums and sites of interest around the city for two days.
Much of Nuremberg’s center is pedestrianized. These quaint streets are used throughout the year as the venue for some of the most impressive markets in Europe. Every Christmas, they play host to the largest Christmas market in the country.
Each of the neighborhoods in Nuremberg has its own story to tell. Whether it’s the cultural vibrancy of Gostenhof, the enrapturing heritage of the Old Town, or the famous nightlife of the Egidienviertel District, there’s something here for everyone. This is why it can be quite tricky deciding where to stay in Nuremberg!
With the Pegnitz River and Rhine-Main-Danube Canal flowing through its center, the city has a beautiful backdrop of this incredible water system, as well as the breathtaking Bavarian countryside surrounding it. With a central train station right at its heart, it’s as easy to get out of the city as it is to get in if you want to explore the wider area, such as Knoblauchsland.
Here’s a quick and easy guide to the best areas in Nuremberg, and where to stay in Nuremberg depending on your interests and budget!
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Nuremberg’s Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay in
Within this German city, there is a whole host of great places to stay. With a convenient location, it’s easy to make a stopover if you’re backpacking Europe.
But it’s important that your accommodation suits your trip. So these are the best Nuremberg hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs.
#1 OLD TOWN – The Best Place to Stay in Nuremberg for your First Time
The Old Town of Nuremberg is packed full of heritage and interesting architecture, dating back from the medieval period. In the very center of the city, it’s easily accessible, and all of its attractions can be reached by foot, so it’s our top recommendation for where to stay in Nuremberg for your first time!
With vibrantly-colored buildings (such as the home of famous renaissance artist, Albrecht Durer), quaint cobbled streets, and an ancient castle to explore, there’s so much to do in the old town of Nuremberg. Whether it’s browsing around the famous markets or experiencing the fascinating Nuremberg Palace of Justice where many Nazis were put on trial after the Second World War, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep busy. This is our top recommendation for where to stay in Nuremberg.
Riverside Apartment | Best Airbnb in Old Town
Get ready for a special stay in Nuremberg’s oldest residential building. With modern rooms set in a historic sandstone building, this stunning Airbnb offers a unique insight to this city. Located south of the river, right on the bank, you’ll be centrally located within walking distance to some of the city’s top sights like Nuremberg Castle. Come back and enjoy a coffee by the water.
Five Reasons Hostel | Best Hostel in Old Town
Germany has a whole host of amazing hostels. But here are five reasons to stay at Five Reasons in Nuremberg: it’s cheap, located right next to the city wall (so not far from the old town), the staff are friendly, there’s an outdoor patio, and the option to book a private apartment if you prefer your own space!
Hotel Five | Best Hotel in Old Town
With modern décor and comfortable convenience, this hotel is situated in the best place to stay in Nuremberg’s Old Town. Within walking distance of some of the city’s most attractive churches and museums, it’s the perfect option for a slightly more luxurious stay.
Things to See and Do in the Old Town:
- Take a walking tour through the old town’s beautiful cobbled streets, lined with historical artifacts and amazing architecture.
- Visit the Imperial Castle at the heart of the city. Not the most outwardly attractive building, but it carries a thousand years of history – be sure to visit the Deep Well and take a stroll through its gardens.
- Visit the incredible gothic church of St Sebaldus, which demonstrates the excellent craftsmanship of those who reconstructed it after it was bombed in the Second World War.
- Stroll through the Weissgerbergasse – one of the most famous streets in Nuremberg, lined with a plethora of multi-colored, timber-framed houses.
- Learn about Nuremberg’s World War II history and how that’s shaped the city today.
- Nuremberg Toy Museum is one of the most famous museums of its kind in the world and features toys ranging from classic vintage items right up to the most cutting-edge gadgets around today!
- For something a bit less traditional, you can always head to the Museum of Modern Art to see some of Germany’s most talented up-and-coming artists.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 SUDSTADT – The Best Place to Stay in Nuremberg on a Budget
A little further out of the central hub of the city, but still with plenty going on, is Sudstadt, our top recommendation for where to stay in Nuremberg on a budget. It’s an area that had to recover significantly from the damages inflicted during the Second World War, giving it unusual hybrid architecture and ample stories to tell from its past.
It’s particularly close to Nuremberg’s Train Station, so it’s easily accessible if you’re interrailing Europe. This spacious area has plenty of sites to check out, such as the Hall of Honour, where state events and parliamentary processions take place.
South Room with Superhost | Best Airbnb in Sudstadt
When you’re on a budget (or even when you’re not) staying with a Superhost is the best way to get to know a city. With the central train station within walking distance and town easily accessible by public transport it’s one of the best places to stay in Sudstadt. Aside from this, the property itself is modern, clean, and has all the amenities you could possibly need!
A&O Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof | Best Hostel in Sudstadt
This cozy hostel next to the central train station is not only convenient but is also family-friendly. With a children’s play area, table football, and snooker tables – as well as Wi-Fi and Sky TV – there’s plenty to entertain all the family if you’re traveling on a budget.
Le Meridien Grand Hotel | Best Hotel in Sudstadt
Enjoy the luxury of this classic grand hotel with outstanding views of the city from beautifully furnished rooms. With a fitness center, sauna, and hot tub, there are plenty of activities to indulge in at the hotel, and that’s before you even venture out into the city, which is easily accessible!
Things to See and Do in Sudstadt:
- Visit the Hall of Honour, one of the most important outdoor venues in Nuremberg, where state events and remembrance processions take place.
- Take a stroll through Hummelsteiner Park, one of the city’s largest and most peaceful parks, featuring a castle and botanical gardens. This is free as well, so it’s a perfect activity for those discovering Nuremberg on a budget!
- Enjoy a cultural explosion of theater, dance, and art at the Zeltner Schloss.
- Appropriately placed next to the central train station in Nuremberg is its world-famous Transport Museum, which features the oldest steam locomotive in German. This is one of the oldest museums in Germany – perfect if you love engineering!
#3 EGIDIENVIERTEL DISTRICT – The Best place to Stay in Nuremberg for Nightlife
If you like a bit of a boogie after your day of exploring this historical city, look no further than the Edigienviertel District. Located on the eastern side of the Old Town, this area is still at the very heart of the city, but stays just as lively after hours!
There’s a refreshing cross-over as the oldest elements of the city blend with a more modern look; this neighborhood boasts innovative and stunning architecture. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and the odd nightclub to indulge in some authentic German party culture, making this our top choice of where to stay in Nuremberg for nightlife – and even the best place to stay in Nuremberg for one night.
Main Market Studio Apartment | Best Airbnb in Egidienviertel
When you’re visiting Nuremberg for the insane nightlife, there’s nothing better than coming back to comfort. It’s located ideally in the old town, close to one of Germany’s most iconic castles: the Imperial Castle. There are modern furnishings, free wifi, Netflix, and everything you need to relax. If you’re visiting in winter, this is the perfect place to see the Christmas market. It’s easily one of the best Airbnbs in Nuremberg.
Burghotel Stammhaus | Best Budget Hotel in Egidienviertel
This hotel may be cheap, but it doesn’t lack in convenience or quality. With a quirky, welcoming atmosphere, this hotel has a terrace and patio, as well as a gift shop and views towards Nuremberg Castle.
Design Hotel Vosteen | Best Hotel in Egidienviertel
This independent hotel offers something a little different for your stay in Egidienviertel. With bike hire and a complimentary Bavarian breakfast, this little spot is a delightful place to rest your head after a night at the fantastic bars this district has to offer, which are just a 15-minute walk away!
Things to See and Do in Egidienviertel District:
- In true German style, go beer tasting.
- Grab a few cocktails at Die Blume von Hawaii – a tropical-themed bar with a variety of different drinks to enjoy in a relaxed, holiday-style atmosphere.
- Take part in a cocktail-making class at Bar Nuremberg, with bubbly and enthusiastic staff to show you how to make a killer combination.
- Bar Harlem is right on the edge of the Old Town, making it a beautiful setting for some chilled drinks with friends, a chance to watch some live music, or just to get down and have a good boogie – as late as 3 am on Thursdays and Fridays! If you like a late-night, this is a great area when considering where to stay in Nuremberg for nightlife.
- Watch a movie in the charming Casablanca Filmkunsttheater, an independent cinema with a bar.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 KNOBLAUCHSLAND DISTRICT – The Coolest Place to Stay in Nuremberg
Filled with the affluence of the district’s agricultural heritage, Knoblauchsland is the best place to visit in Nuremberg if you want to see the less touristy – but certainly no less compelling – corners of this intricate city. With markets, local produce, and German delicacies to experience, this really is the cultural hub of the city, and the coolest place to stay in Nuremberg.
It’s perhaps most famous for hosting Germany’s largest Christmas market, Christkindlesmarkt. So it’sno order it’s a popular choice to spend Christmas in Europe. It starts at the end of November and runs right up until Christmas Eve, keeping the Christmas spirit coursing through the streets right up until the day itself. Boasting all this, Knoblauchsland is one of Nuremberg’s best neighborhoods, even for only one night.
Green Oasis | Best Airbnb Knoblauchsland
Enjoy this family-friendly, open-plan apartment with a stunning garden and delicate design. Hosting up to 5 guests, enjoy all of the space ideal for kids to run around and play. If you come for the Christmas markets, the cozy and comfortable lounge and mosaic bath will keep you feeling cozy and warm.
Centro Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Knoblauchsland
With a stay at Centro Hotel, you’ll experience exceptional service from the friendly staff, all within driving distance of the city’s most popular attractions. With a complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, this is the best place to stay in Knoblauchsland, where you’ll have a reliable base conveniently located.
Ubernachten in der Tenne | Best Hotel in Knoblauchsland
If you’re looking for a quintessential Bavarian getaway, this is a great hotel in Knoblauchsland for you! Rich in character and with a fantastic restaurant, this is one of Nuremberg’s best hotels, and if you’d like to venture into the city, the center is just a 15-minute drive away!
Things to See and Do in Knoblauchsland:
- It goes without saying that if you’re staying in this area – or anywhere in the city – you should visit the Hauptmarkt to sample local goods, such as the famous Nuremberg Bratwurst, local Bavarian beers, and the famous lebkuchen and gingerbread. You’ll also find some beautiful ornaments made from glass and leather there too, so you’ll have something permanent to take home with you as a souvenir.
- Just north of this area is the Reichswald Golf Club if you fancy getting out of the city and into the fresh air for a few rounds of golf.
- To the west of the area is the Volkspark Marienberg, an enormous green space where you can relax in the sunshine, take a walk around the arboretum, or enjoy some of the sports facilities.
#5 GOSTENHOF DISTRICT – The Best Place to Stay in Nuremberg For Families
Although this area may be a little out of the center of Nuremberg, it’s still the best place to stay in Nuremberg with kids. There are plenty of family-friendly activities to get involved in that will keep both the kids and parents entertained.
Packed with museums and historical sites, this area can be fun come rain or shine, with a variety of different indoor and outdoor activities available. Even if you run out of things to do here, with your Nuremberg Card and the excellent public transport available, it’s still really easy to get the whole family into town with little cost or inconvenience!
At the Spittlerturm | Best Airbnb in Gostenhof
Bright, colorful, and stylish, this Airbnb is the perfect quirky getaway in this friendly, up-and-coming neighborhood. With all of Gostenhof’s attractions just a short walking distance away, this really is the best Airbnb in Gostenhof for convenience and relaxation. With an outdoor terrace and a fully functioning kitchen and bathroom, this is a worry-free spot to unwind in.
Living Hotel Nuremberg | Best Hotel in Gostenhof
This hotel is ideally situated within a five-minute drive from Nuremberg’s best and most-visited attractions. It has its own restaurant and bar, as well as a pretty outdoor area to enjoy drinks. At such an affordable price, this is a luxury hotel in Gostenhof at a fair average nightly price.
the niu Leo | Best Hotel in Gostenhof
With various-sized rooms, it is a convenient and welcoming stay, suitable for all kinds of getaways. Some rooms come with a kitchen which is ideal for feeding your brood for a long day. The friendly staff are happy to show you how to get to the best places in the city, which is a piece of cake thanks to the hotel’s proximity to public transport services.
Things to See and Do in Gostenhof:
- Enthral yourself in all things space at the Nuremberg Planetarium, where you can experience voyages throughout the universe, lectures on cutting-edge science and cultural history all inside this huge 18m wide dome, making it the largest planetarium in Bavaria.
- Take the family out for a scavenger hunt to see what you can find.
- The Spittlertortum is an ancient tower, now converted into a military museum. It features fascinating exhibits such as air raids shelters and antique military equipment and takes you through the lives of Second World War soldiers.
- With around 2000 objects to view, the Museum of Germanic Art and Culture is the perfect place to throw yourself into the cultural background of this fascinating and ancient stronghold of the Germanic world. You’ll find local art and sculptures ranging from the stone age to the present day.
- If you’re keen to get your science on and learn about the human body, look no further than the Turmdersinne, an interactive science facility geared towards children.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Nuremberg
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Nuremberg and where to stay.
What To Pack For Nuremberg
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Nuremberg
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Nuremberg
Nuremberg means a rich history and a wide variety of things to see and do. It’s no wonder Nuremberg is fast becoming a cultural hotspot – not only in Germany but the whole of Europe.
To refresh: the best neighborhood in Nuremberg for a first-timer is definitely the Old Town. If you really want to get your bearings about the city’s cultural context, as well as see some beautiful ancient streets, it’s the best place to stay in Nuremberg. My favourite place to stay here is the Riverside Apartment.
If you’re traveling on a budget, the best place in Nuremberg to stay is Five Reasons Hostel. It’s affordable and well-located with friendly staff. What more could you want?
For a more luxurious option, I recommend Sorat Hotel Saxx for its amenities and incredible views across the Old Town. It’s modern, sophisticated, and cozy, making it the perfect base for your explorations around the city!
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below! Otherwise, enjoy your travels!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Germany.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Nuremberg.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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