Nuremberg With Kids

Nuremberg, nestled in the heart of Bavaria, Germany, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and family-friendly fun. From enchanting castles to interactive museums, there’s something for every age group. Let’s delve into the charm of Nuremberg with kids and uncover the best experiences this Bavarian gem has to offer.

Why Visit Nuremberg With Kids

• Fairytale Setting: Nuremberg’s Old Town, encircled by a mighty city wall, transports you to a bygone era. Explore cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses, discover hidden courtyards, and marvel at imposing castles, all begging to be explored.
• Interactive Museums: Nuremberg’s museums cater to curious minds. The Toy Museum is a wonderland of dolls, trains, and childhood favorites. The DB Railway Museum brings the world of trains to life with interactive exhibits and a captivating children’s train land.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond museums, Nuremberg offers a plethora of activities to keep kids entertained. Take a scenic boat tour on the Pegnitz River, explore the Playmobil FunPark with its giant play structures, or embark on a scavenger hunt through the Old Town.
• Delicious Food Scene: Nuremberg is a haven for foodies of all ages. Savor the iconic Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, a short, grilled sausage traditionally served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. Indulge in the city’s famous Lebkuchen, a gingerbread-like treat decorated with colorful icing.
• Safe and Welcoming: Nuremberg is renowned for its safety and friendliness. The locals are known for their warmth towards families, and the city boasts excellent public transportation, making it easy to navigate with children.

Things to Do in Nuremberg With Kids

• Explore the Imperial Castle: Climb to the top of the Nuremberg Castle, a once-mighty fortress, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Explore the inner courtyards, peek into the informative museum within, and imagine knights and princesses roaming the halls.
• Snap a Photo at the Schöner Brunnen: Visit the Hauptmarkt, the central square, and be mesmerized by the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain). This Gothic masterpiece features intricate carvings and is a popular spot for a family photo. Make a wish as you turn the golden ring on the fountain’s grate.
• Travel Through Time at the Toy Museum: Immerse yourselves in a world of play at the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum). Explore three floors filled with historical toys from dolls and wooden trains to Legos and Playmobil. Interactive exhibits and demonstrations will keep children engaged for hours.
• Unleash Creativity at the Albrecht Dürer House: Step into the former home of Albrecht Dürer, the renowned Renaissance artist. Explore his workshop, printing press, and living quarters, and learn about his artistic process. Kids can participate in workshops and unleash their inner artist.
• Embark on a Boat Tour: Take a relaxing yet informative boat tour along the Pegnitz River. Glide past historical landmarks, picturesque bridges, and charming half-timbered houses. Learn about Nuremberg’s rich history from a unique perspective.

Best Places to Visit in Nuremberg With Kids

• Nuremberg Zoo: A must-visit for animal lovers, the Nuremberg Zoo is home to over 1,200 animals from around the world. Kids will be delighted to see majestic polar bears, playful penguins, and fascinating reptiles. The zoo also features a children’s train, interactive exhibits, and play areas, making for a full day of fun.
• Playmobil FunPark: Calling all Playmobil fans! This indoor playground brings the world of Playmobil to life with giant play structures, themed rooms, and interactive games. Kids can climb aboard a pirate ship, explore a medieval castle, or create their own Playmobil adventures.
• Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury): Step into a world of glittering treasures at the Schatzkammer. Marvel at priceless jewels, exquisite goldwork, and ceremonial swords used by Holy Roman Emperors. This historic collection offers a glimpse into the opulence of the past and will spark children’s imaginations.
• Germanisches Nationalmuseum: The largest cultural history museum in Germany, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum offers a fascinating journey through time. Explore exhibits showcasing everything from medieval armor and musical instruments to toys and fashion through the ages. Interactive displays and children’s workshops make history come alive.
• Handwerkerhof: Transport yourselves back in time at the Handwerkerhof, an open-air museum depicting traditional crafts. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate their craft, such as blacksmithing, glassblowing, and candle-making. Children can even participate in some workshops and create their own handcrafted souvenirs.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Nuremberg With Kids

• Mitte: The heart of the action, Mitte offers easy access to the main attractions, charming cafes, and family-friendly restaurants. This lively neighborhood is perfect for families who want to be in the center of it all.
• Altstadt (Old Town): Immerse yourselves in Nuremberg’s medieval atmosphere by staying in the Altstadt. This pedestrian-friendly area boasts charming hotels, historic squares, and plenty of shops to explore.
• St. Johannis: Located just outside the city walls, St. Johannis offers a quieter setting with easy access to the city center via public transportation. This neighborhood is a great choice for families seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
• St. Sebald: Another historic neighborhood, St. Sebald is known for its beautiful churches and narrow streets. This area offers a mix of family-friendly hotels and local restaurants.
• Lorenz: Home to the impressive Lorenzkirche church, Lorenz is a vibrant neighborhood with a youthful atmosphere. This area offers a variety of accommodation options and trendy cafes.

Consider your family’s preferences when choosing a neighborhood. If you prioritize easy access to sights, opt for Mitte or Altstadt. If you prefer a quieter stay, St. Johannis might be ideal.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Nuremberg

• Hotel Victoria: Located in the heart of the Old Town, this hotel offers spacious family rooms, a delicious breakfast buffet, and a play area for children.
• Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremberg: This hotel provides the comforts of an apartment with separate living and sleeping areas, perfect for families. It also features an indoor pool and a rooftop terrace with stunning views.
• Hotel Dürer Albrecht: Steeped in history, this hotel is housed in a 14th-century building located near the main square. It offers family rooms, a children’s playroom, and a traditional Bavarian restaurant.
• Park Inn by Radisson Nuremberg: This modern hotel boasts family rooms, an indoor pool, and a games room for kids. It’s conveniently located near the train station, making it easy to explore the city.
• AZIMUT Hotel Nuremberg: This affordable hotel offers family rooms, a breakfast buffet, and a dedicated play area for children. It’s situated close to the Nuremberg Zoo, making it a great choice for animal-loving families.

Remember to research and book your hotel well in advance, especially during peak season.

Best Time to Visit Nuremberg With Kids

• Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather with blooming flowers makes spring a delightful time to visit Nuremberg. There are fewer crowds compared to summer, making it easier to navigate with children.
• Summer (June-August): Summer offers long, sunny days perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the zoo and Playmobil FunPark. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

• Fall (September-October): (continued) and manageable crowds. Nuremberg also hosts its famous Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market) in late November and December, transforming the city into a winter wonderland.
• Winter (November-March): Nuremberg boasts charming Christmas markets during the winter months, offering a magical experience for children. However, it can be quite cold, so pack accordingly.

The best time to visit Nuremberg with kids depends on your family’s preferences. Consider the weather, crowds, and any special events happening during your desired travel dates.

How Long to Stay in Nuremberg With Kids

Nuremberg offers enough attractions and activities to keep families entertained for several days. Here’s a suggestion:

• 3-4 days: This is a good amount of time to explore the main sights, visit a few museums, and experience the city’s culture.
• 5-7 days: If you have more time, you can delve deeper into Nuremberg’s history, take day trips to nearby towns, or relax and enjoy the leisurely pace of life.

Ultimately, the ideal length of your stay depends on your family’s interests and travel style.

Nuremberg Family Itinerary

This is a suggested 4-day itinerary for your Nuremberg family adventure:

Day 1:

• Morning: Explore the Nuremberg Castle, marveling at the panoramic views and learning about the city’s history.
• Afternoon: Snap a photo at the iconic Schöner Brunnen in the Hauptmarkt square and make a wish at the golden ring.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal at a cozy restaurant in the Old Town.

Day 2:

• Morning: Immerse yourselves in the world of toys at the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum).
• Afternoon: Take a scenic boat tour along the Pegnitz River, spotting historical landmarks and charming bridges.
• Evening: Browse the stalls at the Handwerkerhof, watching skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts.

Day 3:

• Morning: Unleash your creativity at the Albrecht Dürer House, participating in a family workshop.
• Afternoon: Travel back in time at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, exploring fascinating exhibits and interactive displays.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel, indulging in room service or exploring the local neighborhood.

Day 4:

• Morning: Spend the morning at the Nuremberg Zoo, encountering fascinating animals from around the world.
• Afternoon: Head to the Playmobil FunPark for an afternoon of imaginative play on giant structures and themed rooms.
• Evening: Cap off your trip with a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, reminiscing about your Nuremberg adventure.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your family’s interests and time constraints. Feel free to add in additional activities, such as visiting the Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury) or taking a day trip to the historical town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Getting Around Nuremberg With Kids

Nuremberg boasts a convenient and efficient public transportation system, making it easy to navigate with children.

• Tram & U-Bahn: The tram and U-Bahn (subway) network covers most of the city center and major attractions. Purchase a Nuremberg Card for discounted travel and free entry to many museums.
• Bus: Buses connect outer suburbs to the city center.
• Walking: The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, making it a great way to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available for short trips or if you have a lot of luggage.

Nuremberg also offers family-friendly bike rentals, a fun way to explore the city on sunny days.

From exploring majestic castles and fascinating museums to indulging in delicious local treats and exciting activities, Nuremberg has something to ignite the imagination of every child. With its safe and welcoming atmosphere, easy-to-navigate transportation system, and plethora of kid-approved attractions, Nuremberg is the perfect destination for your Germany family holidays.