Flying to Nuremberg: A Guide to European Flights and Practical Tips

Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is not only a city of great historical significance in Germany, but also a cultural and transportation hub in northern Bavaria. Known for its medieval old town, Christmas markets, the Nuremberg Trials, and traditional craftsmanship, it attracts travelers from across Europe and around the world. Compared to major cities like Frankfurt and Munich, air travel to Nuremberg is often more flexible and convenient. For those traveling within Europe, flying into Nuremberg is a balanced choice of efficiency and comfort.

1. Overview of Nuremberg’s Air Network: A Small Airport with Great Connectivity

Nuremberg Airport (Flughafen Nürnberg, code: NUE) is not large, but it is highly efficient and conveniently located—just 7 kilometers from the city center. It is Germany’s tenth-largest airport. Thanks to its strategic location and compact layout, Nuremberg Airport is an ideal gateway for many short-haul European flights. Travelers can usually exit the airport within 30 minutes of landing.

The airport connects to major German cities such as Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, and Berlin, and over 30 other European cities. It is especially suitable for travelers coming from Western, Central, and Southern Europe. Direct flights are mainly operated by Lufthansa, Ryanair, easyJet, Austrian Airlines, SWISS, Vueling, and others.

2. Popular Departure Cities and Direct Flight Destinations

Here are several European cities with frequent direct connections to Nuremberg, useful when planning your journey:

1. London
Flights from several London airports—including Gatwick, Stansted, and occasionally Luton—offer direct service to Nuremberg with Ryanair and easyJet. These flights operate multiple times a week, making it a convenient option for both weekend city breaks and business trips. The flight time is around 1 hour and 50 minutes, and tickets are often competitively priced, especially during off-peak periods.

2. Vienna
Austrian Airlines runs multiple daily flights from Vienna to Nuremberg, with a flight time of just about 1 hour. Given the short distance between the two cities, it’s an especially popular route for both business travelers and tourists. The flights are frequent, punctual, and usually offered at a reasonable price, especially if booked early.

3. Amsterdam
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, along with its SkyTeam partners, provides both direct and connecting flights from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Nuremberg. Direct flights typically take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route is ideal for travelers connecting from intercontinental flights arriving in Amsterdam, ensuring a smooth and efficient transfer to southern Germany.

4. Paris
Vueling and Air France operate direct flights from Paris to Nuremberg, serving both Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. For travelers looking to save money, connections via Frankfurt or Munich may offer lower fares. The route is well-suited for short city visits or as part of a broader European itinerary that includes both France and Germany.

5. Rome/Milan
ITA Airways and its SkyTeam partners offer regular direct flights from both Rome and Milan to Nuremberg, with average flight times around 1 hour and 40 minutes. These flights are particularly convenient for travelers exploring central Europe, offering smooth connections between Italy’s cultural hubs and Nuremberg’s medieval charm.

6. Barcelona
From Barcelona El Prat Airport, both Vueling and Ryanair operate direct services to Nuremberg multiple times per week. With a flight time of approximately 2 hours, this route provides a quick escape from the Mediterranean to the heart of Bavaria. It’s especially popular among leisure travelers visiting Nuremberg for festivals, markets, and seasonal events.

7. Brussels
Brussels Airlines connects the Belgian capital to Nuremberg with direct flights that typically last around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route is favored by both corporate and leisure travelers, offering efficient scheduling and compatibility with broader European rail and flight networks. It’s also a great option for weekend getaways or last-minute travel plans.

3. Connecting Flights vs. Direct Flights: Which to Choose?

For cities without direct routes to Nuremberg, connecting flights are a viable and often cost-effective option. Here’s how to decide:

● Prioritize Time? Choose Direct
If your travel schedule is tight or you’re planning a short trip, direct flights are undoubtedly the best choice. They eliminate the uncertainties of layovers, reduce total travel time, and are far less stressful—especially if you’re carrying minimal luggage or traveling with children. For business travelers or those heading to time-sensitive events in Nuremberg, flying direct ensures you can arrive promptly and make the most of your stay without the worry of delays or tight connections.

● Prioritize Budget? Consider Connecting
If you’re flexible on time and looking to save on airfare, connecting flights can often yield significant savings. Cities like Edinburgh, Copenhagen, or Budapest may not offer direct flights to Nuremberg, but routing through major hubs such as Frankfurt, Munich, or Zurich opens up more affordable options. Many alliance airlines offer multi-leg bookings that combine convenience with lower prices, especially if you’re booking early or during off-peak seasons. Connecting flights can also give you a mini-stopover experience in another European city if your layover is long enough.

● Check Layover Time and Luggage Rules
When planning a journey with a connection, it’s essential to factor in sufficient layover time. A safe buffer of at least 1.5 to 2 hours between flights allows for unexpected delays, long security lines, or navigating large terminals. Always check whether your baggage will be automatically transferred to your final destination—booking flights under the same airline group (e.g., Lufthansa and SWISS within Star Alliance) can ensure smoother handling. Be aware of local airport rules too, as some airports may require re-checking even when flying on partner carriers.

4. Ticket Price Trends and Best Time to Book

Based on recent trends, ticket prices to Nuremberg are typically more stable and affordable during the following periods:

• Mid-January to March: Post-holiday season with low demand
• May and early June: Late spring and early summer, avoiding the peak season rush
• Mid-September to early October: After the summer crowd, yet still enjoying mild weather

For the best prices, book 4–8 weeks in advance. Use fare alert tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track fluctuations.

5. Transportation from Nuremberg Airport to the City

Nuremberg Airport is compact and well-connected. From Terminal 1, you can directly take the U2 subway line to the city center.

● Subway (U-Bahn)
Line U2 departs every 5–10 minutes. It takes only 12 minutes to reach the Central Station (Hauptbahnhof). The one-way fare is €3.30 (as of 2025), and you can buy tickets at vending machines or via the VGN app.

● Taxi
Taxis are available at the terminal exit. A trip to the city center typically costs between €18 and €25 depending on traffic—ideal for groups or late-night arrivals.

● Ride-Sharing / Hotel Transfers
Uber and Bolt operate in Nuremberg and usually cost slightly less than regular taxis. Some hotels also offer shuttle services—book in advance.

6. Baggage Rules and Budget Airline Tips

Ryanair and easyJet are frequently used low-cost carriers on routes to Nuremberg. Be mindful of their baggage policies:

• Ryanair: The standard ticket includes only one small personal item. Additional carry-on or checked baggage must be purchased separately through options like “Priority Boarding.”
• easyJet: Economy tickets include only a small item. Larger carry-ons or checked luggage require upgraded tickets.

Use lightweight cabin trolleys for convenience. If you’re flying multiple segments, be aware of security checks and baggage rules at each transit point.

7. Visa and Entry Requirements

Travelers from Schengen countries can enter Germany with a valid national ID. However, if you’re from the UK, Ireland, or a non-Schengen country, note the following:

• Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date
• If holding a non-Schengen visa, check if your visa allows multiple entries
• Be prepared to show return tickets, accommodation details, and travel insurance upon arrival, as customs officers may conduct random checks

8. Practical Tips and FAQs

● Are there night flights to or from Nuremberg Airport?
Night flights are limited. Most services operate between 6 AM and 10 PM. If you have an early flight, consider staying at Mövenpick Nürnberg Airport Hotel—just a 3-minute walk from the terminal.

● Can I bring a pet on the flight?
Yes. Most airlines allow small pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. However, you must book in advance and pay an extra fee. Confirm the policy at least one week ahead of your flight.

● Should I exchange money at the airport?
Currency exchange and ATMs are available at Nuremberg Airport, but the rates are not ideal. Consider exchanging currency online or withdrawing from ATMs in the city center for better rates.

● Can I take the train instead of flying?
From major German cities like Frankfurt, Munich, or Stuttgart, the ICE high-speed train to Nuremberg takes just 1 to 2 hours. It’s a comfortable and reliable option—especially in bad weather or when flights are canceled.

9. Fly Smart, Travel Easy

Whether you’re departing from romantic Paris or the base of the Alps in Zurich, flying to Nuremberg can be a relaxed and efficient journey. Thanks to its central location in Germany and expanding flight network, the city is becoming a “top second choice” for many European travelers. May this flight guide help you arrive smoothly and confidently in this city where history and modern life blend seamlessly—ready to begin a Nuremberg trip that’s both classic and refreshingly new.