Things To Do
in Nördlingen

Nördlingen is a charming medieval town located in Bavaria, Germany, known for its well-preserved city walls and unique circular layout. It was founded in the 9th century and is famous for its historic architecture, including the stunning St. George's Church. The town is situated in the Ries crater, which adds a geological intrigue to its scenic landscape.

Nördlingen offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers interested in exploring traditional German towns.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the St. George's Church to admire its impressive tower and stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk along the medieval city walls and explore the quaint shops and boutiques in the town center. Don't miss the Nördlingen Museum for an insight into the town's history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional German restaurant and then take a stroll through the beautifully lit streets, perhaps stopping for a drink at a local beer garden.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start with a visit to the nearby Ries Crater Museum to learn about the region's geological significance. Afterward, take a scenic hike around the crater area.

afternoon
:

Return to town for lunch and then visit the historic marketplace, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for souvenirs.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a traditional Bavarian dinner followed by a cultural event or concert if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Cup of coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night in a hotel$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical heritage and architecture
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some attractions may have restricted hours
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Nördlingen

Visit one of these nice places.

St. George's Church Tower

Climb to the top for panoramic views of Nördlingen and the surrounding Ries landscape, making it a perfect spot for stunning photos.

The City Walls

Capture the historic architecture and the circular layout of the town from various vantage points along the city walls.

The Marketplace

A picturesque square filled with colorful buildings and bustling activity, ideal for vibrant street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nördlingen

Nördlingen offers a delightful culinary experience enriched by its Bavarian heritage and local ingredients. Visitors can savor traditional dishes and enjoy the vibrant food scene.

Nördlingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Schäufele

A traditional Bavarian dish made of pork shoulder, typically served with dumplings and sauerkraut.

Must-Try!

Käsespätzle

Egg noodles mixed with cheese and topped with fried onions, a hearty comfort food popular in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market

Held every Saturday, this market showcases local produce, cheeses, and baked goods, perfect for sampling regional flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nördlingen experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters can be cold, often dropping to -2°C (28°F). Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is spread throughout the year, so it’s wise to carry an umbrella or raincoat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, along with maintaining eye contact.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture, so it's important to arrive at appointments and events promptly.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Safety Guide

Safety

Nördlingen is generally a safe town with low crime rates. Common precautions include being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local police stations are accessible for assistance.

Tipping in Nördlingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave about 5-10% as a tip at restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it a pleasant time for outdoor activities and exploring the town's gardens.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists; it's perfect for enjoying outdoor events and dining al fresco.

Autumn

The fall foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for photography and wine festivals celebrating local harvests.

Winter

Cold weather brings a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and winter sports opportunities nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Nördlingen at Night

Nördlingen offers a relaxed nightlife scene with several pubs and beer gardens where locals and visitors gather to enjoy a few drinks. Live music events and cultural performances can sometimes be found in local venues. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to mingle with locals and experience Bavarian hospitality.

Hiking in Nördlingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ries Crater Trail

A scenic trail around the Ries Crater, offering beautiful views and opportunities to learn about the geological history of the area.

Altmühltal Nature Park

Located a short drive away, this park features stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and well-marked hiking trails for all levels.

Airports

How to reach Nördlingen by plane.

Augsburg Airport

Located approximately 65 kilometers from Nördlingen, Augsburg Airport offers limited flights primarily to domestic destinations. It is the nearest airport, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nördlingen is highly walkable, with most attractions located within the town center, making it easy to explore on foot. The cobblestone streets are charming, though some may be uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Walking along the city walls offers a unique perspective of the town's layout and is a pleasant way to enjoy the scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

A mix of families, young professionals, and retirees, the local population enjoys a high quality of life and is engaged in community activities.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to Nördlingen for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a beloved sport in Nördlingen, with local clubs fostering community spirit and engagement.

Handball

Handball is quite popular in the region, with competitive local teams participating in league matches and drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nördlingen is manageable, with limited congestion due to its small size. Public transportation options include buses that connect Nördlingen with nearby towns and cities. Parking is available, but it can be limited in the town center, so using public transport or walking is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nördlingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus or ask for alternatives.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but some restaurants are accommodating, especially if notified in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nördlingen is of high quality, with several clinics and a hospital providing a range of medical services. Visitors from EU countries can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical care. It's advisable for travelers from outside the EU to secure travel insurance that covers health-related issues during their stay.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide