MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Nurnberg

Where to Stay in Nurnberg

Nurnberg Bavaria, Germany Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Nuremberg has a full spectrum of lodging options, with choices for all travelers.

Common Lodging

  • Hostels

    These are budget-friendly options, generally haveing dorm beds and sometimes private rooms. Hostels often feature shared amenities such as kitchens and common areas. They are popular with solo travelers and backpackers seeking social interaction and economical stays. Many youth hostels in Nuremberg are modern and well-maintained.

  • Hotels

    The city features a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly chains (e.g., Ibis, B&B Hotel) offering basic comforts to mid-range options (e.g., Novotel, Park Plaza) with more services. Luxury hotels (e.g., Le Méridien Grand Hotel) deliver premium services and facilities. You find hotels spread throughout the city, with a high concentration near the Hauptbahnhof and in the Historic District.

  • Guesthouses (Gasthäuser/Pensionen)

    These are smaller, often family-independently-run places. They have a personal touch and a cozy atmosphere. Guesthouses typically fall into the mid-range price category and can provide a more authentic local experience. They are common both within the city and in the surrounding areas.

  • Holiday Apartments (Ferienwohnungen)

    These are self-catering apartments, popular for longer stays or for families plus groups. They often include kitchen facilities, living areas, and more space than a typical hotel room. They give a sense of living like a local.

Alternative Stays

  • Agricultural Stays (Urlaub auf dem Bauernhof)

    While not directly in Nuremberg city center, the wider Franconian region offers agricultural stays. These offer a rural experience, often with opportunities to participate in farm activities. They are a good choice for those seeking a quiet escape in the countryside.

  • Holiday Rentals and Apartments

    Widely available through international platforms like Booking.com and Vrbo. They also appear on local German sites. Vacation rentals feature additional space, flexibility, and often kitchen facilities. This makes them a good choice for travelers who prefer to cook some of their dishes or desire a where people live feel.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Several campgrounds are located on the outskirts of Nuremberg. These are accessible by public transport or car. Camping is a popular option during summer months, especially for those traveling with their own vehicles or in search of a more outdoor-focused experience.

  • More Options

    Explore platforms like Agoda, IHG Hotels, and Hostelworld for specific needs, or consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Neighborhood Guide

Nuremberg's neighborhoods each own a distinct character. Choosing where to stay shapes your daily experience of the city.

Altstadt Old Town

Pros
  • Historic and picturesque, the heart of medieval Nuremberg.
  • Immersive historical experience.
  • Very safe for pedestrians.
  • At the heart of the city, excellent public transport links.
Cons
  • Can be noisy, especially around main squares.
  • Accommodation prices are generally higher.
  • Finding parking may be challenging.

Around Hauptbahnhof

Pros
  • Excellent for transport connections.
  • Good selection of hotels for all budgets.
  • Direct access to public transport for the entire city.
Cons
  • Might be less charming than the Old Town.
  • Certain areas could feel less welcoming late at night.
  • Know of higher petty crime risk (e.g., pickpocketing) due to high foot traffic.

Gostenhof / St. Johannis

Pros
  • Gostenhof: More authentic, local feel.
  • St. Johannis: Peaceful, green, historic environment.
  • Accommodation and dining often less expensive.
  • Both of them are generally safe and welcoming.
Cons
  • A bit further from main tourist attractions.
  • St. Johannis: Fewer immediate dining or shopping options.
  • Public transport or longer walk to reach main sights.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Altstadt

Generally lively, especially during the day and evenings, with street performers, market activity, and diners.

Outer Neighborhoods

Areas further out, like St. Johannis or parts of Gostenhof, are typically quieter and have a more local, relaxed ambiance. Choose based on your a liking for vibrancy or tranquility.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure the best accommodation at the best prices.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Summer, December): Book at least 3-6 months in advance. Accommodation, especially during the Christkindlesmarkt period (late November through December 24th), sells out quickly. Prices surge significantly.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Booking ONE-3 months in advance comes recommended. This period has a good balance of availability and moderate prices.
  • Low Season (January-March, November): While you might find last-minute deals, booking 2-4 weeks in advance still secures better choices and prices. Earlier booking stays beneficial for popular properties.
  • Note: Price fluctuations are significant. Major events mean higher prices.

Platforms & Policies

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Airbnb are widely used. IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, and Vrbo are also options.
  • Local Booking: Many hotels and guesthouses offer direct booking on the own websites, sometimes with exclusive offers or better cancellation policies.
  • Negotiation: Negotiation for walk-in rates is not customary within Germany. Fixed pricing is common.
  • Deposits & Cancellations: These vary by property and platform. Always check policies carefully. Many platforms have cancellable for free until a specific date, giving flexibility if your plans change.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Demand Periods
  • Prices are significantly higher during major events, like trade fairs or the Christkindlesmarkt.
  • Peak summer months also see increased rates.
  • Book well in advance during these times.
Savings Opportunities
  • Traveling during the shoulder or low seasons may save money.
  • January to March and November often have lower prices.
  • Look for last-late deals during the off-season.

Consider House/Pet Sitting

TrustedHousesitters

A platform for house/pet sitting exchanges. This provides an unique, often free, accommodation option for those ready to care for homes and pets.

Flexibility

This can suit travelers with flexible schedules and a love for animals, allowing for longer, more immersive stays in a local setting.

Local Experience

Stay in residential neighborhoods for a truly local feel, away from typical tourist areas.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here is a comparison of typical accommodation types and particular recommendations for different traveler needs.

Budget & Mid-Range Picks

Five Reasons Hotel & Hostel

A modern hostel near the Hauptbahnhof. It offers dorms and private rooms, known for its clean facilities and friendly atmosphere.

  • Social atmosphere.
  • Economical stay.
  • Suitable for solo adventurers.
  • Close to transport hub.
Motel One Nürnberg-Hauptbahnhof

A stylish and centrally located hotel known for its compact, well-designed rooms and superb value.

  • Stylish design.
  • Central location.
  • Good value for money.

Luxury Picks

Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg

AN iconic luxury hotel situated opposite the Hauptbahnhof. It features elegant rooms, fine dining, and excellent service.

  • Elegant rooms.
  • Fine dining options.
  • Premium service.
  • Central location.
Park Plaza Nuremberg

A modern, centrally located hotel with uniquely themed rooms, a comfortable and contemporary stay.

  • Current design.
  • Unique themed rooms.
  • Comfortable stay.

Specific Traveler Needs

  • Family-friendly options

    Holiday rentals or apartments have more space and kitchen facilities, useful for families. Hotels like Novotel Nürnberg Centre Ville or Hampton by Hilton Nürnberg Downtown often give family rooms or connecting options, and sometimes amenities such as swimming pools, an appropriate choice for families.

  • Solo traveler recommendations

    Hostels are perfect for solo travelers in search of socializing and budget options. Well-located mid-range accommodations also give convenience and a feeling of safety.

  • Long-stay accommodations

    Ferienwohnungen (holiday apartments) or serviced apartments are ideal choices. They offer kitchen facilities and a more home-like environment, suitable for long stays.

  • Properties with exceptional cultural or historical significance

    Many hotels within Nuremberg'the Historic District occupy historic buildings. These properties often hold an unique ambiance and a strong connection to the city's past.

Accommodation Comparison

  • Hostel (Price: €20-€40)

    Very budget-friendly, social atmosphere. Shared facilities, less privacy, can be noisy.

  • Mid-range Hotel (Price: €90-€150)

    Comfortable, good amenities, private bath. Less unique character than guesthouses, standard experience.

  • Luxury Hotel (Price: €150+)

    High-end service, premium amenities, locations in the center. Expensive, less local immersion.

  • Vacation Rental (Price: €80-€200+)

    More space, kitchen, authentic living. Less service than hotels, cleaning fees, self check-in.

Important Booking Advice

Christmas Market Stays

Book Christmas Market accommodation very early. Prices are highest and rooms sell out fast during December.

  • Start looking 3-6 months in advance.
  • Expect significant price surges.
  • Popular dates sell out quickly.
Maximizing Value

Consider traveling during the shoulder or low seasons for better rates and availability. Flexibility with dates can lead to savings.

  • Shoulder season: April-May, Sep-Oct.
  • Low season: Jan-Mar, Nov.
  • Direct bookings sometimes possess distinct deals.

General Accommodation Tips

Location First

Consider your itinerary and preferred ambiance when choosing a neighborhood. Altstadt for history, Gostenhof for local vibe.

Read Reviews

Check recent guest reviews on booking platforms for insights into cleanliness, service, and actual room conditions.

Check Facilities

If specific amenities (e.g., parking, breakfast, pool) are a must, confirm their availability and cost before booking.