If you enjoy strolling through cobblestone streets and admiring medieval architecture, then Nuremberg is the German city for you. This is one of Germany’s oldest cities, and with a supreme location along the banks of the River Pegnitz, right in the heart of Bavaria, you’re going to love staying in Nuremberg!
Nuremberg is the second-largest city in Bavaria – with the largest being Munich. However, you’ll quickly find that this region of Germany has its own quirks, character, and history. This is Franconia, and it’s really a region within a region. But you’ll be pleased to know it’s a region that’s highly regarded for its beer and food.
Eat and drink to your heart’s content. You’ll need that energy to explore Nuremberg’s historic Altstadt (Old Town) and to delve deep into Holy Roman history, castles, churches, and palaces. Of course, Nuremberg’s more recent history is enough to sober you up, and you can’t avoid learning about the city’s World War II past during your stay.
Nuremberg is always an interesting place to visit, and you’ll find there are many interesting historic hotels, boutique retreats, and family-run guesthouses ready to welcome you with open arms to the city! If you’re planning a trip to Bavaria, then keep reading, as we explain exactly where to stay in Nuremberg.
Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Hotels in Nuremberg, Germany
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Where to stay in Nuremberg
Nuremberg might be Bavaria’s second-largest city, but you’ll love how wonderfully compact and easy to traverse the center is. The Altstadt, or Old Town, is the heart of Nuremberg, and you’ll find medieval streets sprawling across both sides of the Pegnitz River.
The center of the Alstadt is the Hauptmarkt, which is where Nuremberg’s famous Christmas Market is held in the winter. The Hauptmarkt is on the northern bank of the Pegnitz River, and, from here, cobbled alleys and medieval architecture extend outwards.
To the north, you’ll find the imposing Imperial Castle of Nuremberg overlooking the Alstadt. Given that everything in this area is within walking distance, this is a great place to stay if it’s your first time in the city!
Head over the river, and you’ll find more Old Town action. This southern side is home to Nuremberg’s newer 19th-century “Nuremberg-style” architecture, and some of the city’s best hotels are found in this area, with many of them dating back to the 1890s or earlier. Keep heading south, and you’ll reach the magnificent train station, where you’ll find the most modern of Nuremberg’s hotels.
To help you find the best hotels for your trip, here’s our list of the best places to stay in Nuremberg!
The 12 Best Hotels in Nuremberg
1. Karl August – a Neighborhood Hotel
If you’d love to stay right in the heart of Nuremberg’s centuries-old Altstadt (Old Town), then the Karl August is one of the best boutique choices in the city.
Located on the corner of Karlstrasse and Augustinerstrasse, the Karl August is just a short stroll away from the iconic Hauptmarkt. Despite its historic location, though, you’ll find that this is very much a contemporary hotel, with a sleek design concept that’s guaranteed to awe.
You’ll find 120 boutique rooms at the Karl August, all of which are minimalist but modern, with an industrial-chic style that is very much in contrast to the surrounding Old Town. Rooms range from cozy singles to fully equipped family apartments. No matter which you choose, you’ll love the parquet floors, wooden furnishings, and city views.
The Karl August is more than just a comfortable place to sleep for the night. You’ll quickly realize that this boutique hotel is very much the center of the local neighborhood. The hotel has a “doors wide open” policy and loves encouraging locals and guests alike to use the public spaces, bar, and cafe areas for co-working and socializing.
You can easily make Karl August your home away from home. Plus, you’ll feel particularly comfortable after a session in the gorgeous spa, where you’ll find a “Skyfinity Pool” that’s brightly illuminated by long skylights built into the roof. Work out in the gym, relax in the sauna, and soak up the calming atmosphere.
Get ready for a unique culinary experience during your stay at Karl August. This is one of the best hotels in Nuremberg, and you’ll love the food that’s on offer at this boutique’s two different restaurants.
At Cafe Pique Nique, you can order coffee and croissants before socializing at the 9-meter long day bar. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at Brasseries Nitz, where you can order oysters, caviar, fresh fish of the day, and fine wines in low-key yet decidedly refined surroundings.
2. Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg
One of the best Nuremberg hotels is the Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg. This luxurious five-star hotel, with its rooftop terrace and spa, fine dining restaurant, and modern rooms, is a Nuremberg classic, and we know you’re going to love it!
If you’re catching the train into the city, you’ll find this luxury hotel is located right next to the station. Stroll out of the station, and you’ll be welcomed into the refinery of the Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg by the friendly staff as you check into your elegant, spacious, yet understated suite.
After you settle in, head upstairs to enjoy city views from the fitness center and spa area. There’s a top-floor gym, a whirlpool, a sauna, a steam room, and a swimming pool, not to mention the beautiful outdoor terrace and sweeping panoramas of Nuremberg.
Spend the day working out, soaking up the heat and the views in the sanarium, or sightseeing in the nearby Old Town, but make sure you’ve got your table booked for dinner at the Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg.
Restaurant Tafelhof serves up local Franconian delicacies prepared with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a delectable dinner, then top off the night with a nightcap at Boymanns’ Bar.
3. Hotel Deutscher Kaiser
Nuremberg is one of Germany’s most historic cities, and you’ll be happy to know that the city is packed full of historic hotels, too. One of the best hotels in Nuremberg is the Hotel Deutscher Kaiser, a heritage-listed boutique stay that first opened its doors to travelers in 1889!
This hotel is located on the southern side of the Pegnitz River, among the history-laden streets of Nuremberg’s Old Town. The hotel was built in the distinctive “Nuremberg-style” of the 19th century, and you’ll find that both the interiors and exteriors retain this unique Germanic style of architecture and design.
Many of the building’s architectural elements date back further than this, and original elements as old as the 14th and 15th centuries were incorporated into the design.
Rooms at the Hotel Deutscher Kaiser are simple yet full of character. There are period furnishings, antiques, 15th-century statues, and grand sandstone arches throughout. This is by no means the most luxurious hotel in Nuremberg (it’s only a 3-star hotel after all), but it is a hotel that has its own unique identity, and that’s worth more than any bland, commercial enterprise!
4. Leonardo Royal Hotel
The Leonardo Royal Hotel is a modern hotel that’s guaranteed to make your stay in Nuremberg as comfortable, smooth, and elegant as possible. This four-star favorite is perfectly located next to the train station and within walking distance of the Altstadt, and we know you’re going to love the historic buildings and heritage that surround this excellent hotel.
The interiors of the Leonardo Royal Hotel are contemporary but undeniably inspired by traditional Art Deco designs. You’ll appreciate the bright, vibrant lighting in the lobby, bar, and dining areas, as well as the colorful bedding and decor in the bedrooms.
There are 238 rooms to meet all your travel needs, and each room is outfitted with 50-inch televisions and Nespresso machines, as well as functional desks and workspaces. You’ll have plenty of space to relax and unwind in your room or suite, but you can also make use of the spacious open-design of the bar, where you can work, order up drinks and food, plan your itineraries, or enjoy the outdoor terrace when the sun is shining.
5. Hotel Drei Raben
Hotel Drei Raben is the most unique Nuremberg hotel. In English, the hotel’s name means Three Ravens, and it’s a charming nod to the mythical ravens that are said to sit on top of this historic boutique hotel in Nuremberg’s Old Town.
Hotel Drei Raben is Nuremberg’s first themed hotel, and the three ravens are the storytellers. They spread myths and legends and watch over the city from their perch above this heritage-filled townhouse.
You’ll spot the distinctive, tall, narrow shape of this hotel from along the street, but you’ll be surprised by the level of detail and imagination that’s gone into the interior. Each of the boutique rooms at Hotel Drei Raben has a story to tell, and each of the rooms is inspired by a local or Germanic folklore legend.
This is a hotel where history, both old and new, comes alive. The Toy Town room tells how Nuremberg became famous for its toy festivals, while the Deep Well tells the story of the Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne. There’s even a room that explores the local history and love of Nuremberg’s soccer team!
The decor throughout is mythical, but it’s also modern and functional. The hotel’s Bar Rabenwein is the perfect place to relax with a “slow wine,” while you can order cocktails late into the night if you love swapping your own tales with fellow travelers.
6. Hotel Victoria
Over 100 years of history and hospitality come together flawlessly at Hotel Victoria, where you’ll quickly fall in love with the great service and unique character of this luxury boutique hotel.
Hotel Victoria first opened in 1896, and you’ll appreciate the classic Nuremberg-style facade that’s been preserved and listed since. The hotel instantly became one of Nuremberg’s most popular places to stay in the 19th century. Then in the 20th century, this enduring Nuremberg institution received a fabulous makeover and modern upgrade.
Don’t worry because despite the contemporary comforts in the boutique rooms, none of Hotel Victoria’s endearing 19th-century charm has been lost in the revamp. The rooms here are bright and colorful, with vinyl flooring, comfy beds, and historic photographs and prints adorning the walls.
Start your day with the hotel’s delicious Breakfast Tapas concept, which focuses on healthy, savory dishes, but isn’t afraid to throw in a few sweet pastries. If you’re visiting in summer, you can also enjoy the delights of Cafe La Terrazza, a Tuscan-inspired cafe that opens when the sun is shining. In winter, the hotel’s Winter Garden becomes the place to wine, dine, and keep away the cold!
7. Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nurnberg
If it’s 5-star luxury you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nurnberg. This is one of the best hotels in Nuremberg, and you’ll find it conveniently located next to the train station.
As Le Meridien’s name suggests, this is indeed a “grand hotel,” and you’re going to love the equally grand history that accompanies this timeless Nuremberg establishment. The hotel is located within a 19th-century building, and guests have been enjoying Le Meridien’s luxury since 1896. That guest list is exalted, and you’ll be following in the footsteps of the Dalai Lama and The Beatles, who all stayed here in the past!
The interior of Le Meridien is opulent, and you’ll love the Art Deco Atelier Bar, the palatial lobby, and the chandeliered ballroom. There are nods to German history everywhere, and you’ll recognize motifs from operatic epics by Richard Wagner as you stroll through the elegant hallways.
Rooms here are undeniably luxurious, and after a long day of sightseeing in Nuremberg, you’re going to appreciate the marbled bathrooms and comfortable Le Meridien Bed system.
There’s a gym and sauna and an excellent range of cocktails and Nuremberg classics on offer at the Brasserie. The hotel’s restaurant is famed for its Musical Dinner shows and Murder Mystery events, so check with the concierge staff if there’s space for you to join in on the fun when you arrive!
8. Hotel Elch
Book yourself a stay at Hotel Elch, and you’ll be immersed in the city’s medieval history because this is one of the most historic and one of the most unique hotels in Nuremberg.
You’ll find Hotel Elch in the middle of the Altstadt, and you’ll quickly understand from the ramshackle, timber-framed facade that this is a place that’s brimming with heritage. The building itself dates back to the 14th century. Local records state that there may well have been some sort of inn or pub here as far back as 1342!
The hotel is run by the lovely Horka family, and despite its age, longevity, and popularity, this is very much a boutique and personal place to stay. The rooms are modern, but they haven’t lost their rustic appeal.
There are occasional period features and oak supports that mix seamlessly with the updated parquet flooring and purple bedside lighting. There’s a lovely selection of quaint hotel rooms to choose from, but you can also upgrade to a Living Apartment if you prefer a little more space, as well as homey cooking and lounging facilities.
The hotel’s quirky character endures throughout, including in the restaurant, where you enjoy a wonderful blend of Franconian and Asian cuisine while dining in a historic setting. Engelhardt’s Bio Restaurant specializes in fusion cuisine, and they have a healthy menu that offers low carb and superfood dishes as standard.
9. Bio Hotel Kunstquartier
You’ll find Bio Hotel Kunstquartier on the other side of the River Rednitz, right on the outskirts of Nuremberg, where the Bavarian countryside begins. This unique, sustainable boutique hotel is an excellent choice for anyone hoping to stay close to the city but far enough away to escape the hustle and bustle of Nuremberg!
Bio Hotel Kunstquartier is just a short stroll from Faber-Castell Schloss, a romantic countryside estate that evokes images of 19th century Germany. The hotel itself is also located within a building that dates back to the 19th century. While you’ll love the history and heritage, you’ll also appreciate the modern look and feel of the rooms.
The luxury rooms at Bio Hotel Kunstquartier are colorful and bright, and you can embrace the countryside feel and let the light and fresh air stream in through the large windows and terrace doors.
Bio Hotel Kunstquartier tries to be as environmentally friendly as possible and even aims to be carbon neutral. Where possible, the decor and furnishings have been sourced sustainably, while bed linen is always Fairtrade and the breakfast is homemade. It’s a unique place to stay, particularly if you love to travel sustainably!
10. Steichele Hotel and Weinrestaurant
If you love good wine and good food (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), then you are going to love Steichele Hotel and Weinrestaurant. This is one for the foodies because this hotel has its very own wine cellar and tasting room and serves up an incredible array of traditional Franconian dishes in its restaurant.
But let’s start with the hotel itself. Steichele Hotel dates back to 1897 – although many furnishings and elements of the building are even older than this – and the rooms here are wonderfully authentic, traditional in character, yet fully upgraded to meet the needs of the modern traveler.
Moving swiftly onto the Weinrestaurant, you’ll find this same unique and traditional character throughout. The Old Restaurant dining area is wonderfully designed with 18th-century period furnishings, including wooden carvings that are of a style known as German-Italian baroque. You can select from an extensive menu of Franconian and Bavarian favorites before selecting your wines in the tasting room.
The extensive wine collection is one of the highlights of the Steichele Hotel. With the help of a trained sommelier, you can taste and sample local Franconian wines alongside an array of vintages sourced from wider Bavaria and the South Tyrol region.
11. Burghotel Nurnberg
If you love to surround yourself with history and culture during your stay in a new city, then you can’t beat Burghotel Nurnberg. This fabulous hotel is located right in the heart of the Alstadt, and it’s easily one of the best Nuremberg hotels you can book!
Stroll out of the Burghotel Nurnberg, and you’ll find yourself just a short walk away from the famous Hauptmarkt and in the shadow of the imposing Imperial Castle of Nuremberg. There are 43 rooms at Burghotel Nurnberg, all of which are stylishly designed and minimalist in terms of amenities. We recommend upgrading to an upper floor suite, where you’ll have unlimited access to the best views of the Old Town.
Burghotel Nurnberg has an equally boutique swimming pool and sauna, which we know you’re going to appreciate after a tough day of sightseeing on those cobblestone streets. The swimming pool is indoor, of course, and you can swim a few laps or order up a bottle of Franconian wine and relax around the water’s edge in a comfortable pool lounger.
12. Hotel Schindlerhof
You can escape Nuremberg completely with a relaxing stay at Hotel Schindlerhof. Located on the outskirts of the city, a 20-minute drive from the Altstadt, this hotel really is one of a kind!
Hotel Schindlerhof has a rather unique concept. This was originally a countryside farm, and the farm buildings are thought to date back at least three centuries. Over the years, the farm has been transformed into a “hotel village” that comes complete with 2.5 acres (one hectare) of landscaped Japanese-style gardens and “temporary homes” that have each been individually designed and themed.
The concept not only offers guests an unusual retreat but also showcases the region’s modern fusion of cultures and traditions. Things here are sourced locally but internationally inspired. Take a walk through the Japanese gardens, admire the peaceful ponds and bonsai plants, and enjoy the space and serenity of your farmhouse suite or Ryokan room.
This concept is readily apparent in the kitchen, as much as it is in the characterful rooms. The restaurant’s cooking ethos is to take “Franconia abroad,” which means you can expect seasonal ingredients and Franconian classics, with a not-so-subtle hint of international flair and fusion.
That completes our list of the 12 best Nuremberg hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Nuremberg? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
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Frequently Asked Questions
If it’s 5-star luxury you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nurnberg. This is one of the best hotels in Nuremberg, and you’ll find it conveniently located next to the train station. The interior of Le Meridien is opulent, and you’ll love the Art Deco Atelier Bar, the palatial lobby, and the chandeliered ballroom. There’s a gym and sauna and an excellent range of cocktails and Nuremberg classics on offer at the Brasserie. The hotel’s restaurant is famed for its Musical Dinner shows and Murder Mystery events, so check with the concierge staff if there’s space for you to join in on the fun when you arrive!
One of the best hotels in Nuremberg is the Hotel Deutscher Kaiser, a heritage-listed boutique stay that first opened its doors to travelers in 1889! Many of the building’s architectural elements date back further than this, and original elements as old as the 14th and 15th centuries were incorporated into the design. Rooms at the Hotel Deutscher Kaiser are simple yet full of character. There are period furnishings, antiques, 15th-century statues, and grand sandstone arches throughout.
Hotel Drei Raben is the most unique Nuremberg hotel. In English, the hotel’s name means Three Ravens, and it’s a charming nod to the mythical ravens that are said to sit on top of this historic boutique hotel in Nuremberg’s Old Town. Hotel Drei Raben is Nuremberg’s first themed hotel, and the three ravens are the storytellers. They spread myths and legends and watch over the city from their perch above this heritage-filled townhouse.
If you love good wine and good food (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), then you are going to love Steichele Hotel and Weinrestaurant. This is one for the foodies because this hotel has its very own wine cellar and tasting room and serves up an incredible array of traditional Franconian dishes in its restaurant. The Old Restaurant dining area is wonderfully designed with 18th-century period furnishings, including wooden carvings that are of a style known as German-Italian baroque. Plus, the extensive wine collection is one of the highlights of the Steichele Hotel!
One of the best Nuremberg hotels is the Sheraton Carlton Nuernberg. This luxurious five-star hotel, with its rooftop terrace and spa, fine dining restaurant, and modern rooms, is a Nuremberg classic, and we know you’re going to love it! After you settle in, head upstairs to enjoy city views from the fitness center and spa area. There’s a top-floor gym, a whirlpool, a sauna, a steam room, and a swimming pool, not to mention the beautiful outdoor terrace and sweeping panoramas of Nuremberg.
