{"id":1432,"date":"2023-10-05T09:46:11","date_gmt":"2023-10-05T01:46:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rearviewmirror.ruqa4eh2-liquidwebsites.com\/?p=1432"},"modified":"2023-10-23T12:46:37","modified_gmt":"2023-10-23T04:46:37","slug":"going-solo-in-nuremberg","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rearviewmirror.tv\/going-solo-in-nuremberg\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to Do in Nuremberg: Solo Travel in Germany"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Before setting foot in Nuremberg, my knowledge was limited to its iconic Christmas market, interesting World War II history, and its world-renowned sausage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While these alone can justify a visit, Nuremberg has a breadth of attractions likely of interest to the solo traveller. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, I’ll share tips on navigating the city’s historic streets and offer insights into the city’s unique museums and cultural scene. <\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Weissgerbergasse;<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Things to do in Nuremberg<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

I typically travel with my partner, but when he took some time to be with his family, I seized the opportunity for a swift city break to Nuremberg. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Having not travelled solo in a while, I kicked off my visit with a walking tour of the Old Town, immersing myself in its rich cultural sights. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This tour not only gave me an overview of the city’s history but also highlighted areas I was interested in exploring further.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Based on my experiences, here’s what I believe are the best things to do in Nuremberg and places to visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Nuremberg’s Imperial Castle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The most popular attraction in Nuremberg is the Imperial Castle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strategically perched atop a hill, it offers visitors a panoramic vista of the city, laying out Nuremberg like a map before you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This makes it an ideal first stop, setting the tone for the rest of your exploration.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"View<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Venturing into the castle grounds, you can wander freely during the daytime without any entrance fee. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The museum housed within the castle is a treasure trove for those intrigued by medieval warfare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It has an impressive collection of armaments and armours. If weaponry piques your interest, then this museum is a must-visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, while guided tours provide deeper insights into the castle’s history and significance, do note that during my visit, these tours were exclusively in German.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Solo<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

2. Albrecht Durer’s House<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can head down to your next stop at Albrecht Durer’s House from the Imperial Castle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Albrecht Durer was well known around Europe during his lifetime and remains Nuremberg\u2019s most famous artist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

His works are on display in many Old Masters galleries around the world, underscoring his lasting legacy in the world of art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can visit Durer’s half-timbered house if you’re curious to see how Durer and the upper classes lived in the 16th century. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You won’t see any of his famous artwork there, but the experience of wandering around this well-preserved home is worthwhile. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I enjoyed seeing the interior of this half-timbered house as I had never been inside one before.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Albrecht<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

3. Weissgerbergasse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Continuing downhill along Albrecht Durer Street, you’ll eventually reach Weissgerbergasse, one of the most picturesque streets in Nuremberg. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Characterised by its well-preserved, historic timber-framed houses, the street offers a unique glimpse into the city’s medieval past. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Weissgerber” translates to “tawers” in English, which refers to artisans who processed and tanned hides, specifically those used for making gloves. The street was traditionally inhabited by these tawers, hence the name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This was my favourite part of Nuremberg, but I feel a bit sorry for the residents who had to deal with the constant stream of tourists photographing their pretty houses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This is the walking tour of Nuremberg<\/a> that I went on during my solo visit. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n

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\"Weissgerbergasse<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

4. 15th Century Wine Store<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As you make your way across the historic chain bridge, which, despite its age, appears strikingly well-preserved, the 15th-century Wine Store comes into view. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This medieval half-timbered building, with its thick walls and robust architecture, speaks volumes of Nuremberg’s rich history tied to wine trade and storage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Interestingly, this relic of the past now serves as a student residence. Considering the juxtaposition is intriguing: young students, engrossed in modern-day academics, reside within walls that have stood witness to centuries of history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I can’t help but wonder about the stories and conversations that these walls have ‘heard’ and how today’s students might feel about living amidst such history. They probably don’t think twice about it.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"15th<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

5. The Beautiful Fountain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After taking in my fill of the half-timbered charm, I headed back towards the main square or Hauptmarkt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is the location of the Nuremberg Christmas Market<\/a>, one of Germany’s biggest and most historic Christmas markets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Within the square, a distinct landmark captured my attention – the fascinating Sch\u00f6ner Brunnen or the Beautiful Fountain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Beautiful Fountain dates back to the 14th century and stands as a testament to the city’s Gothic artistry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s adorned with forty figures representing the worldview of the Holy Roman Empire, from philosophy and the liberal arts to the church and the dynastic rulers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Its peculiar design might seem eerie to some, but there’s no denying its allure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In my travels, I’ve encountered many fountains, but none quite as captivating and historically rich as this one in Nuremberg.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Beautiful<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

6. Nazi Party Rally Grounds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With an already packed one-day itinerary, I regretfully missed out on visiting the Nuremberg Trials Memorium and the Nazi Party Rally Grounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These sites bear significant weight in Nuremberg’s contemporary history and serve as a sombre reminder of the city’s past during the Nazi era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Rally Grounds, spanning an extensive area, were the backdrop for the massive Nazi Party rallies between 1933 and 1938. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These gatherings played a key role in spreading the propaganda and showcasing the power of the Third Reich. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The grounds still house many structures from that time, including the vast Zeppelin Field and the Congress Hall, with its unfinished facade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nearby, the Nuremberg Trials Memorium stands on the site where key figures of the Nazi regime faced justice after World War II. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This courtroom is an essential piece of post-war history, addressing the war crimes and atrocities committed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Given the historical context, I strongly recommend setting aside time for these sites when in Nuremberg, for they offer a deep insight into a crucial chapter of the 20th century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. National Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

I did, however, manage a quick visit to the Germanisches Nationalmuseum<\/a>, which turned out to be a highlight of my trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Within its vast collection, I was particularly drawn to the paintings by Albrecht Durer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before this visit, I was largely unfamiliar with Durer’s work, but standing before his masterpieces, I was even more intrigued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The detailed expressions and rich colour palettes introduced me to an interesting side of German Renaissance art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The museum is well worth a visit, especially if you want to see more of Albrecht Durer after a visit to his house.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Germanisches<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Solo Travel in Nuremberg<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Where to Eat in Nuremberg<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

I must admit I’m not very good at the solo eating thing. I don’t mind going to cafes alone; I actually quite enjoy that, and I go to the movies alone all the time, but there is something about eating solo in restaurants that makes me feel uncomfortable. I must practice more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I was lucky that I visited Nuremberg while the Christmas markets were on, so for the most part, I snacked on street food from the markets and picked up takeaway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This was only a short solo trip, so that wasn’t much of a problem, but if I was travelling for longer periods, I would probably have to get up the courage to eat in a restaurant alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nuremberg has great traditional Bavarian cuisine that goes way further than their famous sausages, so I do regret not sampling what was available. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Stay in Nuremberg<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

I stayed at the NH Nuremberg City Hotel<\/a> on this city break, courtesy of the tourist office. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The hotel is located across from the main train station and is a short walk to the Old Town, perfect for visiting the city\u2019s main sights and the Christmas market. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although this is a fairly typical 4-star hotel, it\u2019s worth staying here for breakfast alone, which is one of the best I’ve had anywhere in Europe. The NH Hotel also has a good sustainability rating, using 100% renewable energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re visiting Nuremberg in winter, I suggest staying in one of hotels near Nuremberg Christmas market<\/a> that are located near the main square, Hauptmarkt. That is if you want to be in the heart of Nuremberg during the festivities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Travelling Alone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Solo travel can often stir up a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially for us women travellers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even though I was a little nervous about travelling alone after such a long time travelling as a couple, the people in Nuremberg were particularly warm and friendly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I met a number of people as I wandered around the city, both locals and other tourists; I always had an opportunity to feel connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For solo female travellers keen on experiencing Nuremberg, I’d recommend a few things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n