I still remember how fast the first conversation turned into a handshake deal at HOLZ-HANDWERK. It wasn’t planned, but it was worth every euro I spent to get there.

That single experience changed how I approach industry events.

Over the years, I’ve refined my strategy by watching what works, and what stalls. I’ve made the mistakes, and now I share the steps that helped turn my visits into results.

This article lays out exactly what to do before, during, and after the show. You’ll know what to focus on and how to move with purpose, instead of wandering the halls.

Let’s break this down!

1. Plan Your Visit Early

I still remember my first HOLZ-HANDWERK. I arrived on day one without much of a plan, thinking I could just walk in and figure things out. By lunchtime, I was lost in the crowd, trying to cram in meetings I hadn’t scheduled and rushing through booths I should’ve spent more time at. If you’re thinking about attending in 2026, take it from me: a little prep goes a long way.

This show isn’t just big. It’s overwhelming in the best way. Hundreds of exhibitors, thousands of professionals, and only four days to see it all. You’ll want to approach it like a business trip, not just a casual visit.

Start by blocking off March 24–27, 2026 on your calendar. From there, create a rough prep timeline. For example:

• 6 months out: Book flights and accommodation.
• 4 months out: Finalize visa requirements and register for the event.
• 2 months out: Build your exhibitor list and plan your daily schedule.
• 1 month out: Reach out to key contacts and confirm appointments.

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure your passport is valid, and if a visa is required, apply early. One helpful detail: HOLZ-HANDWERK no longer provides invitation letters, but your ticket acts as your official event document. That alone could save you days in processing.

2. Book Tickets and Register Online

Before you book flights or plan meetings, make sure you actually have a ticket. HOLZ-HANDWERK does not sell tickets at the door. That’s right, no on-site registration, no exceptions. Everything happens online.

The process is simple but time-sensitive. Once the ticket shop opens (usually a few months before the event), you create an account on the official website, select your ticket type (one-day or multi-day), and check out. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for voucher codes from exhibitors. These can save you the ticket fee entirely.

Another bonus? Your event ticket includes free local public transport in Nuremberg during the show. That means you can hop on the U-Bahn, trams, and buses without paying a cent, a small perk, but a super practical one.

Personally, I print one copy of my ticket and keep a digital version on my phone. Some entrances get crowded, and it helps to have both options ready to scan. If you’re attending with a team, register everyone at the same time so you can coordinate easily.

3. Arrange Travel and Accommodation

The year I waited too long to book my hotel, I ended up in a guesthouse 40 minutes outside the city. Charming, yes. Convenient? Not even close. After a few 6 a.m. train rides, I learned my lesson.

Here’s what I do now.

Choose Your Travel Method

• Flying in? Land at Nuremberg Airport (NUE), just 25 minutes from the fairgrounds. The subway line U2 takes you to the central station, then U1 brings you straight to the Messe.
• Coming by train? The Hauptbahnhof is a hub for regional and international trains. From there, it’s a quick ride to the venue.
• Driving? Plenty of parking at NürnbergMesse. But traffic gets thick during peak hours.

Book Accommodation Early

If you want to stay near the venue or in the beautiful Old Town, book early. Hotels in Nuremberg fill up fast, especially during a dual event like HOLZ-HANDWERK and FENSTERBAU FRONTALE.

Recommended areas:

• Altstadt (Old Town): Full of restaurants, pubs, and evening charm. Direct metro to the venue.
• Langwasser: Close to the Messe; business hotels dominate the area.
• Fürth or Erlangen: Nearby cities with fast public transport links to Nuremberg.

Check the NürnbergMesse partner hotel list for special rates. And don’t forget to use your event ticket for free transit during your stay.

4. Understand the Venue Layout

NürnbergMesse is huge, sprawling, actually. It’s made up of multiple modern, interconnected exhibition halls, each with its own focus and energy. For HOLZ-HANDWERK, most of the action happens in Halls 9 through 12, though depending on the year’s programming, a few others might be in play too. And because it runs alongside FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, you’re really looking at an entire ecosystem of events happening at once.

Map It Out

Before you even arrive in Nuremberg, download the interactive floor plan from the official website. This is your best friend. I usually spend a Sunday afternoon a week before the event marking up key booths, entry points, and break areas.

• Mark your must-visit exhibitors by hall and booth number.
• Highlight rest areas, food courts, and cloakrooms.
• Color-code your map for different categories (machines, software, materials, etc.).
• Use the event app (if available) for digital navigation, many booths now include QR codes for extra info.

If you’re old school like me, also print the floor plan and bring a few colored pens. Don’t rely solely on the printed guide they hand you at the door, it’s useful, but the font is tiny and it doesn’t always reflect last-minute booth changes.

Arrive Through the Right Entrance

There are a few ways to get into NürnbergMesse, but for HOLZ-HANDWERK, Entrance Mitte (Main Entrance) is typically the most efficient. It connects directly to the U-Bahn and drops you near cloakrooms, info counters, and the early exhibitor halls. Getting through security here tends to be faster, too, especially early in the morning.

If you’re planning to head straight to Halls 11 or 12, it might make more sense to use Entrance Ost (East), check the latest floor plan to decide.

Mobility and Facilities

One of the things I appreciate most about NürnbergMesse is that it’s built with comfort and access in mind. Whether you’re walking long distances, pushing a sample trolley, or managing a mobility device, the venue is fully accessible.

• Wide walkways, elevators, and ramps are available throughout.
• Charging stations are placed in several common areas, great for powering up phones or tablets between meetings.
• You’ll also find ATMs, translation desks, and first aid services if needed.

I usually stake out a couple of quiet zones to use as backup meeting spots or just to take a break. Noise and crowds can get intense after a few hours, and stepping away helps you reset and refocus.

5. Build Your Event Agenda

This is where things get real. HOLZ-HANDWERK isn’t just a walk-through expo, it’s packed with expert forums, live demonstrations, and industry showcases that can directly impact your business.

• Define Your Goals Early; Before you even arrive, ask yourself what success looks like for you. Whether it’s discovering new suppliers, scouting tech upgrades, or making connections, your priorities will shape your agenda.
• Focus on High-Impact Areas; Not every hall or booth is created equal, some will matter more to your business than others. Identify the product categories or exhibitors that align best with your current needs.
• Block Out Time for Learning: Make space in your day for sessions like the “Practical Guide to Digitisation” forum. These short talks are packed with takeaways and can shift how you think about efficiency and workflow.
• Schedule Key Meetings in Advance: If certain suppliers or partners are a must-see, book your appointments before the show. It saves time and guarantees focused conversations without distractions.
• Leave Gaps for Exploration: Some of the best discoveries happen when you’re off-script. Wandering into the HOLZ-HANDWERK Campus or watching an unplanned demo can lead to unexpected solutions.
• Balance Each Day Intentionally: Start your mornings with pre-planned meetings and must-visit booths. Use afternoons for exploration and networking, when foot traffic is lighter and conversations feel more relaxed.

6. Network Like a Pro

Some of the most valuable moments at HOLZ-HANDWERK happen outside the booth. Whether you’re meeting a potential supplier, reconnecting with a long-time contact, or chatting with someone over coffee, this event is packed with opportunities to build relationships that last long after the show ends.

Prepare Before You Arrive

Good networking starts before you even set foot inside the venue. In the weeks leading up to the event, post on LinkedIn that you’re attending and tag HOLZ-HANDWERK, you’d be surprised how many people reach out.

Bring a solid stack of business cards (yes, they still matter), and have a quick intro ready about who you are and what you’re looking for. The more intentional you are before you get there, the easier it’ll be to make meaningful connections in the moment.

Start Conversations Everywhere

You don’t need a formal meeting to make a good connection. Some of my best contacts have come from casual chats, waiting in line for coffee, sitting down at the same forum session, or grabbing lunch at the same table. The atmosphere at HOLZ-HANDWERK makes it easy to strike up a conversation.

A simple “What have you seen that’s interesting today?” can open the door to a business relationship that might’ve otherwise passed you by.

Use Built-In Opportunities

HOLZ-HANDWERK builds networking into the experience. The JobMatch area is perfect for companies looking to recruit, or for individuals looking for new roles in the industry. The forums and live panels create natural spaces to interact with others who share your interests.

And don’t overlook the smaller moments: many exhibitors host informal coffee hours or evening get-togethers at their stands, which are ideal for relaxed conversations in a less crowded setting.

Follow Up While It’s Fresh

Once the show is over, don’t let those new connections fade. Take ten minutes each evening to jot down who you met and what you talked about. Within a week, follow up with a short, personalized message, something that shows you remember the conversation and want to keep it going. A well-timed follow-up can turn a quick handshake into a long-term business relationship.

7. Explore Beyond the Exhibits

After a full day of meetings, walking halls, and taking notes, you’ll probably be tempted to head straight back to your hotel. I’ve done that before, and regretted it. Nuremberg isn’t just where HOLZ-HANDWERK happens; it’s a city full of history, charm, and great food. A little time exploring after hours goes a long way in making the trip feel memorable, and sometimes, those relaxed evening conversations spark the best business ideas.

Here are a few places and experiences worth checking out:

• Old Town (Altstadt); Just a short U-Bahn ride from the Messe, the Old Town is the historic heart of the city. Walk its cobbled streets, admire the medieval architecture, and enjoy the relaxed vibe in the town squares.
• Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg): Sitting atop the city, this 12th-century fortress offers sweeping views and a crash course in Nuremberg’s royal history. A perfect spot for a quiet hour before dinner.
• Hauptmarkt Square: Great for people-watching and light browsing, this central market square sometimes hosts pop-up stalls. It’s a lively hub surrounded by cafes and local shops.
• Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rally Grounds: A heavy but important stop, this museum dives into Germany’s WWII history with thoughtful, detailed exhibits. It’s a short cab ride from the venue and well worth the visit if you have the time.
• Try the Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Nuremberg without tasting its famous bratwurst, especially from Bratwurst Röslein or Zum Gulden Stern. Pair it with sauerkraut, potato salad, and a local red beer for the full Franconian experience.

Conclusion

This article walks you through what works: early planning, smart scheduling, real connections and yes, time to explore Nuremberg too.

HOLZ-HANDWERK only happens every two years. You don’t get many shots at this.

Start now. Book your ticket, map your goals, and get ahead.

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