Nuremberg: A walk through the history of crime

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: This 2-hour guided walking tour costs just $16 per person in Nuremberg’s Old Town.
• Expert guide: The tour is led by a qualified guide who shares detailed stories about Nuremberg’s history of crime, witch hunts, and justice.
• Rich landmarks: Visitors explore notable sites such as the Hangman’s House, the town hall, the medieval prison (“Lochgefängnisse”), and the Hauptmarkt.
• Engaging storytelling: The guide provides insightful narratives about historic executions, medieval punishments, and famous figures like Peter Henlein.
• Accessible stops: The tour covers key locations in the Old Town, including the Weinmarkt, Fleischbrücke, and Schuldturm, each with its own story.
• Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover Nuremberg’s Crime History in Just 2 Hours

This guided tour in Nuremberg offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s dark past related to crime, justice, and punishment. Priced at $16 per person, the tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a compact yet enriching experience suitable for those interested in history and medieval justice. The tour starts at the Henkerhaus Museum, where the story of the hangman Franz Schmidt begins, setting the tone for an exploration of Nuremberg’s notorious past.

Led by a qualified guide, this tour navigates through the Old Town’s most significant landmarks, providing stories that connect historic crime scenes with the city’s cultural traditions. The small group size and well-paced itinerary ensure an intimate and informative experience, with plenty of chances to learn about witch hunts, medieval punishments, and the medieval prison called “Lochgefängnisse”.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: This 2-hour guided walking tour costs just $16 per person in Nuremberg’s Old Town.
• Expert guide: The tour is led by a qualified guide who shares detailed stories about Nuremberg’s history of crime, witch hunts, and justice.
• Rich landmarks: Visitors explore notable sites such as the Hangman’s House, the town hall, the medieval prison (“Lochgefängnisse”), and the Hauptmarkt.
• Engaging storytelling: The guide provides insightful narratives about historic executions, medieval punishments, and famous figures like Peter Henlein.
• Accessible stops: The tour covers key locations in the Old Town, including the Weinmarkt, Fleischbrücke, and Schuldturm, each with its own story.
• Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

From the Hangman’s House to Medieval Dungeons

The tour begins at the Henkerhaus Museum, where the story of Nuremberg’s executioners and the famous hangman Franz Schmidt are introduced. This site provides context about medieval justice and capital punishment. The guide explains the history behind the Hangman’s House and its role in the city’s judicial system.

Next, the walk takes you through the Old Town, stopping at the Weinmarkt—a historic wine market space that historically linked to the witch hunts in Nuremberg. Here, the guide shares details about witch trial history and the city’s dark episodes related to accusations and executions.

The visit to the Old City Hall reveals how medieval justice was administered, with stories about public punishments and the criminal justice system during that era. The guide emphasizes the medieval prison known as “Lochgefängnisse”, describing its purpose, conditions, and the fate of inmates.

Exploring the Hauptmarkt and the Fleischbrücke

A short walk takes visitors to the Hauptmarkt, the bustling main market square that hosts the Christkindlesmarkt each December. The guide discusses its connection to daily crime and the death penalty in historical contexts, adding depth to the visit.

The Fleischbrücke is another notable stop, where medieval corporal punishment is explained. The guide details historical methods of punishment and how they were publicly carried out, providing insights into medieval societal norms and justice practices.

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Discovering Peter Henlein and the Schuldturm

Walking through Findelgasse, the tour shares the story of Peter Henlein, a famous watchmaker, highlighting his significance in Nuremberg’s history. His story connects craftsmanship with the city’s medieval industry and notorious past.

The tour concludes at the Schuldturm, a historic tower that served as a prison. Here, the guide explains its original purpose, notable inmates, and its role in the city’s justice history. The final stop provides a comprehensive picture of Nuremberg’s medieval penal system.

Practical Details and Booking Options

This walking tour is designed for those who enjoy history, architecture, and stories of justice. The meeting point is in front of the Henkerhaus, where the guide, identifiable by a green name tag and picture folder, greets the group. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple.

While entry to Hangman’s House, town hall, and medieval dungeons is not included, the guided stories offer rich context to understand these sites’ historical importance. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to make the most of the walk.

You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travel plans.

Why Choose This Nuremberg Crime History Tour

This tour provides a well-rounded overview of Nuremberg’s dark and intriguing past related to crime, punishment, and justice. The expert guide ensures an engaging storytelling experience, making history come alive through tales of witch hunts, medieval prisons, and public executions.

The price point of $16 offers exceptional value for a focused, 2-hour experience in the heart of the Old Town. Its small group setting and carefully curated stops make it ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in medieval justice.

However, it’s important to note that entry to certain sites is not included, and the tour is conducted in German, which may affect non-German speakers. Still, the visual storytelling and clear narration by the guide make it accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $16 per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts in front of the Henkerhaus Museum and ends back at the same location.

Are entry tickets to castles or prisons included?
No, entry to Hangman’s House, town hall, and medieval dungeons is not included.

Is the tour suitable for non-German speakers?
The tour is conducted in German, which may limit understanding for non-German speakers.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour appropriate for people with mobility impairments?
It is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and site conditions.

How many stops are included?
There are 13 stops, covering the core landmarks and stories in Nuremberg’s Old Town.

What makes this tour unique compared to others?
It offers a focused look at Nuremberg’s criminal history, including witch hunts and medieval punishments, led by a knowledgeable guide in a small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby