Nuremberg offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and architecture that makes it a prime destination for memorable tours and experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring its medieval roots, delving into the Third Reich’s history, or simply wandering the picturesque streets with a local guide, Nuremberg has a lot to offer. We particularly like the Nuremberg: Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour because it offers a glimpse into the city’s dark past beneath the old city hall, complete with original furnishings and a chilling torture chamber. For a broader overview, the 48-Hour CityCard with Free Public Transportation makes sightseeing both easy and economical. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that fits your interests and schedule.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a variety of Nuremberg tours, including guided walks through the Old Town, comprehensive Castle tours, WWII and Nazi history explorations, and private trips to the Nazi Party Rally Grounds. Some tours focus on the city’s medieval charm, like the Old Town Walking Tour, while others explore darker chapters, such as the Nuremberg World War II or Nazi Trials. Each offers a unique perspective and insight into Nuremberg’s complex history.
1. Nuremberg: Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour
At number 1 on our list, this tour takes visitors underground to explore the vaulted cellars of Nuremberg’s old city hall. The Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour offers a chance to see the original furnishings and learn about the medieval justice system, including the frightening torture chamber. The audio guide enhances the experience, making it easy to imagine what life was like for prisoners sentenced in those dark cellars. With a rating of 4.8/5 from nearly 1,770 reviews, it’s clear this tour resonates with history lovers and curious travelers alike. It’s a short, punchy experience perfect for those wanting a visceral sense of Nuremberg’s darker history. The tour is available for about 45 minutes, with flexible starting times to fit your schedule.
Bottom Line: An engaging, visceral look at medieval justice, especially suited for history buffs interested in the city’s dark past. Highly recommended for a quick but impactful visit.
2. Nuremberg: 48-Hour CityCard with Free Public Transportation
For just a couple of days, the Nuremberg CityCard offers excellent value and convenience. This pass includes free admission to many top museums and attractions, unlimited use of public transport, and a 50% discount on partner activities. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to explore at their own pace without worrying about individual tickets. Whether you’re visiting the Germanic Museum, the Documentation Center, or simply want to hop between sites across the city, this card streamlines your trip. Plus, reviews praise its excellent value and ease of use, with visitors noting it made sightseeing more flexible.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious visitors who want the freedom to explore Nuremberg and Fürth efficiently and affordably over two days.
3. Nuremberg: Free Walking Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Free Walking Tour led by a local guide. Spanning 2 to 2.5 hours, this tour covers the city’s history from the Middle Ages to the present, along with highlights like the castle, churches, and city walls. The guide shares personal insights into how Nuremberg was rebuilt after WWII and its connections with the Nazi era. This tour is ideal if you prefer a personalized, flexible experience without a hefty price tag. Though reviews are limited (42), those who have taken it appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the insightful stories, with many saying it provided a great overview of Nuremberg’s character.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers seeking a free, informative introduction to the city’s history and architecture.
4. Nuremberg: Old Town Walking Tour in English
In just two hours, this guided walking tour offers a charming look at Nuremberg’s medieval streets and major landmarks. Starting at €19.74 per person, it takes you through the Hauptmarkt, Kaiserburg, and St. Lorenz Church, with stops at highlights like the Fountain of the Beautiful and Handwerkerhof Crafts Market. The itinerary includes a mix of history, architecture, and local stories, with the guide providing context about Nuremberg’s Holy Roman Empire roots and Nazi-era links. Reviewers appreciated the well-paced tour and knowledgeable guides, though some felt more time at certain sites would improve the experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a compact, informative overview.
Bottom Line: Good value for a comprehensive two-hour walk that covers Nuremberg’s historic heart with engaging commentary.
5. Tour del tercer Reich por Nuremberg en español
This 3-hour tour in Spanish offers an in-depth look at Nuremberg’s role in the Third Reich. It covers the city’s importance as a Nazi rally site, the Nuremberg Trials, and Nazi architecture. It’s a strong choice for Spanish-speaking travelers wanting an educational focus, with the guide providing detailed insights into Nazi propaganda, military rallies, and the city’s symbolic significance. The reviews highlight the expertise of the guide Federico and the rich, didactic narration. Because of its focused content, it’s perfect for those interested in political history and WWII.
Bottom Line: An engaging, Spanish-language tour ideal for those seeking a deep dive into Nazi history and Nuremberg’s dark past.
6. Nuremberg World War II
For a comprehensive 3-hour private experience, this tour visits Nazi rally grounds, Zeppelin Field, and the Palace of Justice. It includes round-trip transport and covers key WWII sites, such as the Documentation Center and Courtroom 600. Reviewers mention the convenience of private transport and the expert narration that brings these heavy sites to life. The tour suits travelers wanting a focused, guided overview of Nuremberg’s WWII history without the hassle of self-driving or navigating on their own. While entry fees aren’t included, the guide’s insights make it a standout for history enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history lovers who want an expert-led, stress-free visit to Nuremberg’s WWII landmarks.
7. Nuremberg: Castle and Old Town Tour – incl. admission tickets and red beer tasting
Number 7 combines castle visits, walking through the medieval Old Town, and a red beer tasting in a local brewery. This 3-hour guided tour takes you from the Imperial Castle to the Sinwell Tower and explores hidden local spots. The highlight is the red beer tasting—a local specialty—and the tour of secret places only locals know. Guests praise the guide for sharing passionate stories and the well-organized itinerary. It’s perfect for those interested in a blend of history, food, and local culture, with the added fun of sampling regional brews.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who enjoy a detailed castle experience combined with culinary discovery in a lively, authentic setting.
8. Nuremberg: Complete Tour! Castle/Old Town/World War II
This 5-hour VIP minibus tour hits everything: castle, old town highlights, WWII sites, and WWII-related memorials. It includes castle admission, WWII museums, and tastings of gingerbread, bratwurst, or red beer. Reviewers love the personalized experience, with many saying the driver-guide’s knowledge made the history come alive, especially for families and history enthusiasts. The all-in-one itinerary is perfect if you want a full day of sightseeing without multiple bookings. It’s a bit pricier but offers value in convenience and depth.
Bottom Line: The best choice for those wanting a thorough, all-in-one Nuremberg experience with comfort and expert guidance.
9. Third Reich, Nazi Propaganda, Nuremberg Trials Private Tour
Number 9 offers a personalized private experience exploring Courtroom 600 and Nazi rally grounds over 3 to 5 hours. You’ll get an intimate, detailed look at Nazi propaganda, the Nuremberg Trials, and related sites. The tour is ideal for history-minded travelers who want deep contextual knowledge and flexible scheduling. Reviewers commend the guide’s expertise and personalized attention, noting that it’s a powerful, educational tour. Its private nature makes it suitable for families, academics, or serious history buffs.
Bottom Line: An excellent, in-depth private tour for those wanting a detailed understanding of Nuremberg’s WWII and Nazi history.
10. Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing
This 6-hour private transfer combines transportation with sightseeing along the route to Munich. You can choose stops such as Dachau, Ingolstadt, or Regensburg, making it ideal for travelers wanting to see more without extra hassle. The reviews highlight the professional, friendly drivers and the flexibility to tailor stops to your interests. It’s perfect if you prefer a personalized, comfortable transfer that adds a sightseeing element instead of just getting from point A to B.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a stress-free, flexible transfer with sightseeing en route.
11. PRIVATE Nuremberg Nazi Party Rally Grounds Walking Tour
This private, 3-hour tour takes you through the Nazi rally grounds, including Zeppelin Field and Congress Hall. The guide’s expert narration helps you understand the architecture’s propaganda purpose and Nazi rituals. Reviewers mention the depth of knowledge and personalized attention making it ideal for those wanting a detailed, undistracted experience. The private approach allows for in-depth questions and tailored insights, suited for history enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive understanding beyond the standard group tour.
Bottom Line: A perfect private option for exploring the Nazi rally grounds with a knowledgeable guide.
This 2-hour self-guided walking tour explores the remains of Nazi architecture on the former rally grounds. It focuses on propaganda architecture and its current discussions about use and memory. The tour includes visits to Kongresshalle, Zeppelinfeld, and Great Road, offering insight into Nazi spectacle and its legacy. It’s inexpensive and suitable for travelers interested in architecture, history, and contemporary debates. Some reviews appreciate the informative signage and guides.
Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible way to experience the rally grounds at your own pace.
13. Nuremberg Old Town Tour: Medieval Times and Nazi Trials
Closing our list, this 2.5-hour guided tour combines medieval sights with WWII history, covering highlights like the Hauptmarkt, Fleisch Bridge, and Imperial Castle. It also visits Nuremberg Trials sites, making it suitable for those interested in both medieval and modern history. The tour is praised for entertaining storytelling and appropriate pacing. One reviewer noted that the guide’s passion and knowledge made the city’s stories come alive.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an engaging, multi-era overview of Nuremberg in a manageable time frame.
How to Choose Your Perfect Nuremberg Tour
When selecting the best experience, consider your interests and time constraints. If you’re a history buff eager to explore WWII sites, the Nuremberg World War II or Nazi Trials Private Tour are outstanding options. For those wanting a more relaxed, self-guided approach, the CityCard offers flexibility and savings. If you’re interested in medieval architecture and local culture, the Old Town Walking Tour or the Castle and Old Town Tour deliver engaging, well-rounded experiences.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the private options or multi-hour excursions, to ensure availability. Think about whether you prefer guided, group, or private tours, and match your choice to your schedule and curiosity level.
In summary, Nuremberg offers a range of immersive, educational, and fun tours. For a quick dose of medieval darkness, try the Medieval Dungeons; for a fuller historical immersion, opt for the Complete Tour or private WWII visits. For a lighter, more cultural experience, the Old Town walking tours provide charm and insight. No matter your preferences, these tours will deepen your understanding of Nuremberg’s complex history and vibrant city life. Book early, plan your interests, and enjoy exploring one of Germany’s most captivating cities.