Welcome to Nuremberg, a city that seamlessly blends history with modernity! Whether you’re visiting for the Christmas market, exploring as a couple, or seeking a cultural getaway, your decision on where to stay can make or break your trip.
This guide to the best areas in Nuremberg will help you find your perfect base, from the charming Old Town to neighborhoods close to the train station. You’ll discover recommended hotels with spacious rooms, some even boasting saunas, and areas brimming with shops and restaurants. Whether you prefer to be north of the river or in the heart of the action, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and find your ideal Nuremberg home away from home!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Nuremberg 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg
- ✨ 5-Star: Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Victoria Nürnberg
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Agneshof Nürnberg
- 💸 Cheap: a&o Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof
- 🏢 Apartment: Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremberg
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Novotel Nürnberg Centre Ville
- 🏩 For Couples: Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg
Quick Guide on Best Area in Nürnberg ❤️🔥
- 🏰 For History Buffs: Old Town (Altstadt)
- 🎄 For Christmas Market Enthusiasts: Hauptmarkt
- 💰 For Budget Travelers: Südstadt
- 🎨 For Hipsters and Art Lovers: Gostenhof
- 🚆 For Convenient Transit and Day Trips: Near Nuremberg Central Station
1. Old Town (Altstadt) – Best for First-Time Visitors 🚶🏼
🎨 Dürer’s Artistic Playground: As I stroll through Nuremberg’s Old Town, I’m immediately transported to the Renaissance era. The Albrecht Dürer House, where the famous artist lived and worked, is a must-visit attraction. It’s like stepping into a time capsule of 16th-century art and life.
⏳ Cobblestone Chronicles: Walking along the winding streets of Altstadt feels like flipping through pages of a history book. Every corner tells a story, from the imposing Nuremberg Castle to the charming half-timbered houses. It’s one of the most picturesque areas in Bavaria, and definitely one of the best places to visit in Germany.
Here’s a list of my favorite spots in the Old Town:
- St. Sebaldus Church
- Hauptmarkt (Main Square)
- Beautiful Fountain (Schöner Brunnen)
- Toy Museum
- Hangman’s Bridge
🕰️ Clock Tower Wonderland: The Old Town is home to several stunning clock towers, but my favorite is the one on the Frauenkirche. At noon, watch the “Männleinlaufen” – a mechanical clock show featuring figures of the seven electors parading around Emperor Charles IV.
🥨 Pretzel Paradise Promenade: One of the best ways to experience Nuremberg’s Old Town is through its food. I recommend taking a culinary stroll, sampling local specialties like Nuremberg sausages and, of course, pretzels. The smell of freshly baked goods wafting from local bakeries is simply irresistible.
Best hotels to stay in Altstadt 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Altstadt
- Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg – A modern hotel located on the central market square, offering free WiFi and air-conditioned rooms with excellent views of the Old Town.
- Dürer-Hotel – A well-rated hotel near the city center, offering a fitness center and highly-rated breakfast options including vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Five Reasons Hotel & Hostel – A centrally located hotel offering both private rooms and dormitory options, suitable for various types of travelers.
- Hotel Elch Boutique – A boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town, providing a blend of modern amenities and historic charm.
- Hotel Agneshof Nürnberg – A comfortable hotel offering a central location and good value for money in the Old Town area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Appartament im Herzen von Nürnberg – A budget-friendly apartment option in the heart of Nuremberg, ideal for those seeking a home-like stay.
- DJH Youth Hostel Nuremberg – A youth hostel offering affordable accommodation with a focus on community and shared spaces.
- Hotel Agneshof Nürnberg – While not a hostel, this hotel offers some budget-friendly options for those seeking a step up from hostel accommodations in the Old Town.
2. Hauptmarkt – Best for Christmas Market Visitors ☃️
🎅 Santa’s Bavarian Basecamp: As I step into Hauptmarkt, I’m instantly transported into a winter wonderland. This square is the beating heart of Nuremberg’s Christmas market, Germany’s largest and most famous. It’s the perfect base for experiencing the festive magic that engulfs the city every December.
🌟 Glühwein Galaxy: The aroma of spiced mulled wine fills the air, drawing me towards the countless stalls selling this warming winter drink. I recommend trying the traditional Nuremberg Glühwein – it’s a local specialty that’ll keep you cozy as you explore the market.
Here’s a list of my favorite Glühwein varieties:
- Classic red wine Glühwein
- White wine Glühwein
- Cherry Glühwein
- Blueberry Glühwein
- Non-alcoholic Kinderpunsch for the little ones
🔔 Jingle Bell Square: The sound of carols and the gentle tinkling of bells create a magical atmosphere in Hauptmarkt. It’s not just about shopping; it’s about immersing yourself in the festive spirit. Whether you’re visiting Nuremberg for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, the Christmas market is a must-see.
🕯️ Candlelit Charm Central: As night falls, Hauptmarkt transforms into a sea of twinkling lights. The illuminated stalls and the grand Christmas tree create a postcard-perfect scene. It’s one of the most romantic spots in the city, making it ideal if you’re visiting Nuremberg as a couple.
Best hotels to stay in Hauptmarkt 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Hauptmarkt
- Karl August - a Neighborhood Hotel – A 4-star hotel with excellent amenities including a fitness center, sauna, and swimming pool, located just 500 feet from the city center.
- Hotel Central – A centrally located hotel offering a highly-rated breakfast and comfortable rooms, perfect for exploring Nuremberg’s attractions.
- Riverview Apartments by DasPaul – Modern apartments offering a home-away-from-home experience with river views in the heart of Nuremberg.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- DasPaul – A stylish hotel offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm, situated in a convenient location for exploring the city.
- Kleines Juwel in Top City Lage – A cozy, well-located property offering a more intimate stay experience in the heart of Nuremberg.
- Baumwollspinnerei – A unique hostel experience in a converted cotton mill, offering affordable accommodation with a touch of industrial chic.
3. Südstadt – Best for Budget Travelers 🧮
💰 Thrifty Traveler’s Haven: As I stroll through Südstadt, I’m struck by how wallet-friendly this area is. It’s the perfect place to stay in Nuremberg if you’re watching your euros. You’ll find plenty of affordable hostels and budget hotels here, all within walking distance of the main train station.
🌿 Urban Oasis Uncovered: Don’t let the word “budget” fool you – Südstadt is a hidden gem. I love wandering through its parks and green spaces, a welcome respite from the touristy Old Town. It’s like discovering an urban oasis in the heart of the city.
Here’s a list of my favorite budget-friendly spots in Südstadt:
- A&O Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof – a hostel with modern rooms and a rooftop terrace
- B&B Hotel Nürnberg-City – offers spacious rooms and complimentary breakfast
- Pension Zum Bären – a cozy guesthouse with friendly staff
- DJH Youth Hostel Nuremberg – perfect for backpackers, with an excellent location
Südstadt
🍳 Brunch Bonanza Boulevard: One of the best things about Südstadt is its food scene. I recommend starting your day at one of the many affordable cafes. The smell of freshly baked pretzels and strong coffee is the perfect way to kick off your Nuremberg adventure.
📚 Bookworm’s Bargain Bonanza: Südstadt is a treasure trove for book lovers on a budget. I’ve spent hours browsing through second-hand bookshops here, picking up German classics and travel guides at bargain prices.
Best hotels to stay in Südstadt 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Südstadt
- Advantage Appartements Hotel – A 3-star hotel offering spacious rooms, a fitness center, and sauna, located 1 mile from the city center.
- Ringhotel Loew's Merkur – A 4-star hotel with a restaurant, fitness center, and swimming pool, situated 0.7 miles from Nuremberg’s center.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Cozy Dreams Deluxe 2 Zimmer Apartment + Küche – A comfortable apartment offering a home-like stay with kitchen facilities.
- Best Western Hotel Nürnberg City West – A reliable mid-range option with good amenities and easy access to public transport.
- Atrium Hotel Nürnberg – A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location in Südstadt.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Apartments Maffei – Budget-friendly apartments offering a more independent stay option in Südstadt.
- Das Falk Apartmenthaus – A aparthotel offering affordable accommodations with kitchen facilities.
- ECO Smart Apartments Premium Central Station – Eco-friendly apartments providing a budget-conscious option close to public transport.
4. Gostenhof – Best for Local Experience 🏠
🎨 Hipster Haven Headquarters: As I wander through Gostenhof, I’m immediately struck by its vibrant, artistic atmosphere. This neighborhood, often called GOHO, is Nuremberg’s hipster central. It’s a far cry from the touristy Old Town of Nuremberg, offering a genuine slice of local life in Bavaria’s second-largest city.
🌱 Eco-Warrior Wonderland: Gostenhof is a paradise for environmentally conscious travelers. I love how this neighborhood embraces sustainability, a refreshing change from the consumerism you might find near the central train station or the Imperial Castle. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Nuremberg if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly travel experience.
Here’s a list of my favorite eco-friendly spots in Gostenhof:
- ZeroHero – a package-free grocery store
- edi m – an upcycling boutique
- bambiboom – a vintage clothing shop
- Grüne Oase – a vegan-friendly cafe with a beautiful garden
- Radstation – a bike rental and repair shop
🍷 Vintage Vino Village: One of the coolest things about Gostenhof is its thriving wine scene. I recommend spending an evening hopping between the neighborhood’s cozy wine bars, a perfect activity for couples visiting Nuremberg. While you won’t find luxury hotels with fitness centers or indoor pools here, you’ll discover charming restaurants and bars with excellent breakfasts and local wines.
🎸 Underground Music Mecca: Gostenhof is the beating heart of Nuremberg’s alternative music scene. From grungy basement venues to hip jazz clubs, there’s something for every music lover here. While it’s not right next to the central station or walkable from the Palace of Justice, it’s well worth the trip for music enthusiasts.
Best hotels to stay in Gostenhof 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Gostenhof
- Apartment Nürnberg Like Home – A spacious apartment offering a home-like experience with a fully equipped kitchen and balcony, located close to public transport.
- Luxury Apartment with Roof Terrace – A high-end apartment featuring a roof terrace, free parking, and 90m² of space spread across 3 rooms in the center of Nuremberg.
- Hotel Brera – A stylish hotel offering modern amenities and comfortable rooms in the trendy Gostenhof district.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- City Apartment in Nürnberg – A well-equipped apartment offering a comfortable stay for those who prefer a more independent accommodation option.
- Art Hotel City – A unique hotel with an artistic flair, offering comfortable rooms and good value for money in Gostenhof.
- Nürnberg City am Plärrer – A centrally located hotel offering easy access to both Gostenhof and the city center.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- B&B Hotel Nürnberg-West – A budget-friendly option offering clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities.
- the niu Leo – A modern hostel with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for young travelers and those seeking a social environment.
- Derag Livinghotel Nürnberg – While not strictly a hostel, this aparthotel offers affordable studio options suitable for budget-conscious travelers looking for more privacy.
5. Near Nuremberg Central Station – Best for Convenience 🚂
🚆 Rail Romance Central: As I step out of Nuremberg’s Hauptbahnhof, I’m immediately struck by the convenience of this area. It’s not just a transit hub; it’s a gateway to the city’s soul. Staying near the train station puts you at the heart of Nuremberg’s transport network, making it my favorite place to stay for easy exploration.
🚶♂️ Walk-Everywhere Wonder: One of the best things about staying near the central station is that everything is within walking distance. I love how I can stroll to the Old Town’s charming streets in just 15 minutes. It’s the perfect base for seeing the Christmas market or exploring Nuremberg’s top attractions.
Here’s a list of places you can easily reach on foot:
- Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square)
- St. Sebaldus Church
- Nuremberg Castle
- Germanisches Nationalmuseum
- Handwerkerhof (Crafts Courtyard)
Nuremberg Castle
🚌 Day-Trip Departure Dock: Nuremberg’s central station isn’t just great for city exploration; it’s also the perfect launchpad for day trips. I recommend hopping on a train to picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber or the UNESCO-listed Bamberg. The station area has everything you need to help you plan these exciting excursions.
✈️ Airport Access Ace: One of the coolest things about staying near the main station is the easy airport access. The U2 subway line whisks you directly to Nuremberg Airport in just 12 minutes. It’s a game-changer for early morning flights or late arrivals.
Best hotels to stay in Near Nuremberg Central Station 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Central Station Nürnberg
- Scandic Nürnberg Central – A 4-star hotel offering a fitness center, sauna, and pool, located 850m from the city center with excellent transport links.
- Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremberg – Featuring spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, located in the Mitte district.
- Astoria Apartments – Well-located apartments offering a home-away-from-home experience close to the central station and city attractions.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- NH Nürnberg City – A reliable mid-range option offering comfortable rooms and good amenities near the central station.
- Nürnberg Hostel – A budget-friendly option with both private rooms and dormitories, ideal for travelers looking to save on accommodation.
- IntercityHotel Nürnberg – A modern hotel offering convenient access to public transport and comfortable rooms for business and leisure travelers.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Premier Inn Nürnberg City Centre – While not a traditional hostel, this hotel offers affordable rooms with good amenities, suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
- B&B Hotel Nürnberg-Hbf – A budget hotel offering basic but comfortable accommodations very close to the central station.
- Familien Appartement – An apartment option suitable for families or groups looking for hostel-like prices with more privacy and space.
FAQs about Where to Stay in Nuremberg ❔
Where’s the best place to stay for first-time visitors to Nuremberg?
The Old Town (Altstadt) is ideal for first-timers, offering easy access to major places to visit in Nuremberg and a charming historical atmosphere.
Which neighborhood is best for budget travelers in Nuremberg?
Südstadt, located south of the Pegnitz River, is perfect for budget travelers. It offers affordable accommodations and good public transport connections to the center of Nuremberg, just a 15-minute walk away.
Where place to stay in Nuremberg for the Christmas Market?
Stay near Hauptmarkt for the best Nuremberg Christmas Market experience. It’s the central location for the famous Christkindlesmarkt and you’ll also find top hotels like Hotel Agneshof nearby.
What’s the most convenient area to stay for day trips from Nuremberg?
The area next to the central train station is best for day trips, offering easy access to trains for travel planning.
