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The historic bridges of Nuremberg’s Old Town are a fascinating and scenic part of the city, each with its own story and charm. These bridges span the Pegnitz River, connecting various sections of the city, and offer beautiful views of both medieval and modern Nuremberg.

Henkersteg (Hangman’s Bridge)

One of the most picturesque and historically significant bridges is the Henkersteg, which connects the northern and southern parts of the Old Town. This charming wooden bridge is named after the nearby former executioner’s house (Henkerhaus), where the city’s executioner lived. The bridge offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past, and walking across it gives visitors a sense of the historic atmosphere of Nuremberg. It’s a lovely spot for photos, especially with its views of the river and old buildings on either side.

Fleischbrücke (Meat Bridge)

The Fleischbrücke is another iconic bridge that crosses the Pegnitz River, named after the nearby meat market that used to stand here. It’s a stone bridge with medieval origins, offering beautiful views of the cityscape. The bridge is well-located near several of Nuremberg’s historic landmarks, and crossing it allows visitors to explore the Old Town and discover charming narrow streets, shops, and cafes. The sculptures and reliefs on the bridge’s columns add to its historical appeal.

Museumsbrücke (Museum Bridge)

As the name suggests, the Museumsbrücke is located near some of Nuremberg’s finest cultural institutions, like the Germanisches Nationalmuseum and the Nuremberg Toy Museum. This bridge offers easy access to the southern part of the Old Town and is often a quieter spot to enjoy the views of the river and the surrounding historic buildings. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk or for crossing between museums.

Kettensteg (Chain Bridge)

The Kettensteg, a pedestrian-only bridge, is one of the more unique bridges in Nuremberg due to its suspension design. Built in the 19th century, the bridge is supported by chains rather than stone pillars, which makes it stand out in a city filled with traditional medieval architecture. It offers stunning views of the river and Nuremberg Castle, as well as the chance to walk between two scenic areas of the Old Town.

These bridges offer more than just functional crossings—they are steeped in history and provide beautiful vantage points to appreciate the medieval charm of Nuremberg’s Old Town. Whether you’re crossing for a practical reason or simply taking in the views, each bridge offers something unique, from historical anecdotes to picturesque scenery. They are perfect for those wanting to capture the essence of Nuremberg’s past, while enjoying a peaceful stroll along the Pegnitz River.

Visit Notes

For me, the best part of visiting Nuremberg was walking along the river and through the old town. I enjoyed it more than almost any of the sights in town (with the exception of the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which is now one of my all-time favorite museums). I spent my mornings walking along the river and across the bridges, ambling through the medieval buildings of the Weißgerbergasse. First thing in the morning, you’ll have the city to yourself and you can enjoy the ducks paddling peacefully along the river.

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Nuremberg

Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Germany, is a city rich in history, culture, and medieval charm, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Located in Bavaria, Nuremberg is best known for its well-preserved Old Town, impressive medieval architecture, and deep connections to both the Holy Roman Empire and World War II history. One of Nuremberg’s most striking features…