Discover Nuremberg – Medieval Old Town, Historic Markets & Dürer

Discover the heart of Nuremberg as you explore its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, admire magnificent Gothic churches and Renaissance architecture,cross the historic Fleisch Bridge over the Pegnitz River, wander through the atmospheric Hauptmarkt, and uncover the traditions behind the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. Along the way, appreciate the symbolism of the Tugendbrunnen, marvel at the Frauenkirche and its historic mechanical clock, and step into the world of Albrecht Dürer as you discover the former home of one of Germany’s greatest Renaissance artists.

1. 1

   St. Lorenz

   15 min

   Begin your tour at St. Lorenz Church, one of Nuremberg's three most important historic churches and one of the city's most impressive Gothic landmarks. Originally constructed during the Middle Ages, the church suffered extensive damage during the Second World War but was carefully reconstructed and restored. Take time to admire its richly decorated western facade, monumental portals and intricate Gothic details. Your guide will introduce you to the church's importance in Nuremberg's religious and civic history, as well as some of the important works of art associated with the building. St. Lorenz remains one of the defining landmarks of the southern part of the Old Town.

2. 2

   Tugendbrunnen

   10 min

   Continue towards the Tugendbrunnen, or Fountain of the Virtues, an elaborate Renaissance fountain depicting six virtues: faith, hope, charity, courage, temperance and patience. Above them stands the figure of Justice. The fountain provides an opportunity to explore the symbolism and values that shaped Renaissance civic culture, while its elaborate sculptural decoration offers an excellent example of the artistic craftsmanship found throughout Nuremberg's historic centre.

3. 3

   Fleischbrucke

   5 min

   Continue to the Fleisch Bridge, one of the most distinctive historic bridges in central Nuremberg. Crossing the Pegnitz, it connects the St. Lorenz and St. Sebald districts and forms an important link between the two halves of the Old Town. As you cross the bridge, take in the views along the river and the surrounding historic buildings. The Pegnitz has played an important role in the development of Nuremberg, and the bridges crossing it provide some of the city's most atmospheric viewpoints.

4. 4

   Nurnberger Christkindlesmarkt

   10 min

   Arrive at the Hauptmarkt, the central market square and one of the focal points of Nuremberg's historic Old Town. The square has been associated with markets and civic life for centuries and today remains one of the city's most vibrant public spaces. During the Advent season, the Hauptmarkt is transformed into the setting for the famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, one of Germany's best-known Christmas markets. Outside the Christmas season, you can still appreciate the square's historic character and learn about the traditions that have made the market famous around the world. At the centre of the square, admire the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain), one of Nuremberg's most recognisable monuments. The approximately 19-metre-high Gothic fountain is richly decorated with symbolic figures and has stood on the Hauptmarkt since the late 14th century.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   15 min

   Admire the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), which dominates the eastern side of the Hauptmarkt. Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV in the 14th century, it is one of Nuremberg's three most important historic churches and is regarded as the first Gothic hall church in Franconia. Look up at its distinctive façade and famous balcony, from which the Nuremberg Christkind traditionally delivers the opening prologue of the Christkindlesmarkt. You can also learn about the Männleinlaufen, the celebrated mechanical clock in which seven electors pay homage to Emperor Charles IV each day at noon.

6. 6

   Albrecht-durer-haus

   20 min

   Conclude your walk near Albrecht Dürer's House, one of the most atmospheric historic houses in Nuremberg's Old Town. The building dates back to around 1420 and was acquired by Albrecht Dürer in 1509. Dürer, one of Europe's most influential Renaissance artists, lived and worked here for almost 20 years. Today, the preserved historic house provides an evocative connection to the artist and to Nuremberg's important role as a centre of art, printing and intellectual life during the Renaissance. The tour ends here, leaving you in the picturesque upper Old Town, close to the historic streets surrounding Dürer's former home and within easy reach of other major attractions.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.