Eight Things to See and Do in Nuremberg as New Manchester Flights Launch
Travellers from Cumbria can now reach the historic German city of Nuremberg directly from Manchester following the launch of a new twice-weekly easyJet service.
The first flight arrived at Nuremberg Airport on Monday 2 November, where the aircraft received a traditional water salute from the airport fire service. The new connection operates on Mondays and Fridays, with a flight time of approximately two hours. Return fares have been advertised from £64 per person, although prices depend on availability and additional charges may apply for services such as checked baggage and seat selection.
Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city after Munich, is particularly popular during the winter season because of its historic Christmas market. However, the city offers considerably more than festive attractions, with medieval streets, impressive architecture, museums, traditional food and important sites connected to European history. Its compact Old Town also makes it suitable for visitors planning a short city break.
One of the main attractions is the Christkindlesmarkt, one of Europe's best-known Christmas markets. Held in the city's Hauptmarkt square, the traditional event features wooden stalls selling handmade decorations, gifts and seasonal food. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, sample local gingerbread and roasted almonds, and explore the market's traditional stalls. The market has a history stretching back to the 16th century and attracts visitors from across the world.
Nuremberg Castle is another major attraction, standing above the Old Town and offering panoramic views across the city's rooftops. The historic complex was once an important imperial residence of the Holy Roman Empire. Visitors can explore its towers, courtyards and historic buildings, including the Sinwell Tower and the Deep Well, which extends more than 160 feet underground.
The Old Town itself is ideal for exploring on foot, with cobbled streets, traditional buildings, churches and historic bridges along the River Pegnitz. Medieval fortifications surround much of the area, while landmarks such as the Schöner Brunnen fountain and the covered bridges provide opportunities to discover the city's architectural heritage. Cafés and independent shops add to the appeal for visitors spending a weekend in the city.
For those interested in 20th-century history, the Palace of Justice is an important destination. It hosted the Nuremberg Trials after the Second World War, when leading figures from Nazi Germany were brought before an international military tribunal. The Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum explains the proceedings and their historical significance. Nearby, the former Nazi Party Rally Grounds provide further insight into the rise of National Socialism and its consequences.
The city's religious architecture is another highlight, particularly St Lorenz Church and St Sebaldus Church. Both are significant medieval buildings and prominent features of Nuremberg's historic centre. St Lorenz is recognised for its Gothic architecture and twin towers, while St Sebaldus has strong historical connections with the city and composer Johann Pachelbel, whose famous Canon in D remains widely recognised.
Food is an important part of the Nuremberg experience, with Nürnberger Rostbratwurst among its best-known specialities. These small grilled pork sausages are traditionally served three at a time in a bread roll, a local preparation known as Drei im Weggla. Visitors can also try Nürnberger Lebkuchen, a traditional gingerbread associated with the city, alongside the wider Franconian region's established beer culture and historic brewing traditions.
The Manchester route gives travellers from across the North West another direct option for visiting Germany during the festive season. Stephen Turner, chief commercial officer at Manchester Airport, said the service made it the only UK airport outside London with a direct connection to Bavaria's second city. EasyJet said the new route would expand travel options from the region, with services scheduled twice weekly until early January 2027.
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