by The skies over Germany are especially clear in early winter. On a November morning, as the plane slowly taxied off the runway at Frankfurt Airport and ascended into the sky, I caught my first glimpse of that city with pointed spires and red rooftops gradually emerging through breaks in the clouds—Nuremberg.
This trip was something I had planned as a “cultural journey in the sky.” In a country like Germany, where the railway and highway systems are highly developed, choosing a short domestic flight is uncommon—but that’s exactly why it’s worth trying. Viewing a well-preserved medieval city like Nuremberg from above gave me a whole new understanding of the term “three-dimensional history.”
Why Choose Domestic Flights in Germany?
While domestic flights in Germany may not be as widely recognized as in other European countries, they still offer great efficiency and charm on certain routes. For travelers with limited time, those making a north-south connection, or those simply seeking a unique perspective on Germany, a short flight can be an unexpectedly memorable choice.
On my journey, I flew from Frankfurt to Nuremberg—a quick 40-minute flight that offered sweeping views of the Franconian landscape. If timed right, especially in the morning or late afternoon, you can witness sunlight casting a golden glow over ancient castles and towns, as if stepping into a historical painting.
Recommended Routes: Air Corridors to the Middle Ages
Germany has several active domestic carriers, with Lufthansa and Eurowings being the main operators. Their flights often hub through Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin, offering swift connections to cities like Nuremberg. These are ideal for travelers planning multi-city trips or wanting to save time on rail.
Prices are quite reasonable—if booked at least three weeks in advance, round-trip economy fares with taxes typically range from €80 to €120. With some luck, you might catch flash sales under €70. Business class fares usually start at €250, appealing to those who prefer more legroom and priority boarding. For the best views and smoother flights, I recommend early morning or sunset departures.
Here are three scenic routes I’ve personally flown and would strongly recommend:
Frankfurt (FRA) → Nuremberg (NUE)
This was the route I took on my recent trip. The flight lasts around 40 minutes. Choose a window seat on the right (Row A) for views of the Taunus Mountains, the Rhine Valley, and the Spessart forest before crossing into the Franconian plateau. If the skies are clear, you’ll spot the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) perched on a hill in Nuremberg’s north. From above, the city looks like a crown nestled in a checkerboard of streets, its red rooftops glowing amber in the sun.
Recommended flights:
• Lufthansa LH1026, departs 07:15 – ideal for morning photography
• Eurowings EW9145, departs 17:35 – golden hour over the old town
Hamburg (HAM) → Nuremberg (NUE)
This route connects Germany’s northern port with central Bavaria in about 55 minutes. Expect layered scenery: shimmering stretches of the Elbe River, vast forested zones, and vineyard-dotted villages as you near Nuremberg.
Recommended flights:
• Eurowings EW9056 – early morning departure
• Lufthansa LH2126 – daytime flight with great visibility
Berlin Brandenburg (BER) → Nuremberg (NUE)
This flight presents a striking contrast—from the modern political capital to a city steeped in medieval heritage. It’s a 50-minute journey over Saxony’s hills and Thuringian forests. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a stunning mosaic of colors, like a painter’s palette.
Recommended flights:
• Lufthansa LH1912, departs 10:30 – optimal light
• Eurowings EW9131 – afternoon departure for return legs
For flexibility, consider mixing rail and air: fly in, take the train out, or vice versa.
Aerial Beauty: Nuremberg from the Sky
What made me fall in love with short-haul flights was the view—especially the final ten minutes before landing in Nuremberg.
From a right-side window seat, I watched the landscape sharpen beneath us: frost-tipped trees, clustered cottages, the Pegnitz River winding through town like a silver ribbon. Then came the sharp lines of the Imperial Castle, its shadow falling just north of the old town. Below, the Hauptmarkt (main square), St. Lorenz Church, and Frauenkirche lined up like puzzle pieces.
This is a perspective you simply can’t get on foot or by bus. It’s a unique blend of space and sunlight—a fleeting visual memory that stays with you.
Nuremberg Airport: A Compact, Pleasant Hub
The journey continued upon landing at Nuremberg Airport. Located north of the city, this compact airport ranks among Germany’s most user-friendly mid-size hubs. Everything is efficient—getting from the gate to baggage claim to the subway takes less than three minutes on foot.
The U2 subway line connects the airport directly to the central station in just 12 minutes. From there, a 10-minute walk takes you straight into the heart of the old town. This seamless transfer is another reason I favored flying.
The airport also scores high in service. Beyond security, there’s a small tavern serving local beer and sausage platters—perfect for a layover snack. Even better, the bookstore stocks beautifully printed atlases and architectural histories of Nuremberg. I grabbed one, ordered a hot chocolate, and browsed through medieval city maps in anticipation of what I’d soon see on the ground.
Occasionally, the airport hosts mini-exhibitions of local artists or historical photography. Though temporary, they’re tastefully arranged—something I haven’t often found in other German airports.
Three Views of Nuremberg: Sky, Ground, Heart
The sky gives you a preview, the ground offers immersion, and the heart preserves the memory. There’s something deeply poetic about witnessing a city unfold from above and then walking its streets. After exiting the airport and hopping on the U2, I found myself at the gates of the Imperial Castle within 30 minutes. The same castle I had just admired from the sky now stood right before me—imposing, majestic, and full of stories waiting to be discovered.
It was November, and the ground was carpeted in golden and amber leaves. The air was cool and crisp, with a stillness that seemed to echo through the medieval walls. The silence was almost sacred, broken only by the distant sound of church bells.
In the following days, I walked through every corner of Nuremberg’s old town. What struck me most was the harmony between what I had seen from the air and what I now experienced on foot. The city felt like a well-composed symphony: red bricks, timber-framed houses, stone fountains, and arched bridges all played their part in a seamless composition. With each step, the aerial view was brought to life in exquisite detail.
Flight + Rail: An Efficient Hybrid Journey
If you want to experience Germany from both above and below, here’s a route I’d recommend:
• Fly into Nuremberg from Frankfurt, Hamburg, or Berlin. The short flight offers not just speed but also a stunning preview of the landscapes and cityscapes below.
• Spend 2–3 days exploring the old town and museums. Nuremberg’s compact layout makes it ideal for walking tours, and its rich history—from medieval architecture to WWII landmarks—offers endless depth.
• Take an ICE train to nearby cities like Munich, Regensburg, or Bamberg (all within 1.5 hours) Take an ICE train to nearby cities like Munich, Regensburg, or Bamberg (all within 1.5 hours). Germany’s rail network is punctual and comfortable, turning every transfer into an easy leg of your journey.
• Return via short-haul flight from Munich or Stuttgart. It’s a great way to conclude your trip with one last look at Germany from the sky.
This approach not only saves time and reduces fatigue but also provides a beautifully layered travel experience. From the birds-eye view to street-level detail, it’s a journey that brings you closer to the soul of Germany.
Recommended Hotels: Overlooking the City, Not Just from the Sky
To extend the theme of elevated perspectives, I selected hotels in Nuremberg with excellent views:
Hotel Drei Raben
Located on the main street of the old town, its rooftop terrace provides an amazing view. Each room is themed around a local legend or historical figure. The breakfast café offers panoramic views of ancient towers.
Sheraton Carlton Nürnberg
North of the central train station, this hotel features a spa and rooftop sauna with full-length windows. Soaking in a hot bath while watching the city lights come on is an unforgettable experience.
Melter Hotel & Apartments
Ideal for those who prefer an apartment-style stay. Centrally located with rooms on higher floors offering views of church spires and tiled roofs.
All these hotels can be booked via major platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia. Prices vary by season, so booking a month in advance is recommended.
Seeing History from Above
Some say the most beautiful views of a city are those you never expect. This short flight across Germany didn’t just save me time—it gave me the clearest, most striking view of Nuremberg’s full form.
When I saw that ancient city embedded in the landscape from above, I realized travel isn’t just about moving through space. It’s about shifting your perspective. Next time you’re planning a trip across Germany, torn between rail or air—give flight a chance. Some memories can only be etched in your heart when seen from the sky.
