Things To Do
in Erfurt
Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, sits on the Gera River and is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved medieval center. Its skyline is defined by the Krämerbrücke, a timber-framed bridge lined with shops, and the imposing Erfurt Cathedral. The city blends Romanesque churches, Baroque streets, and a vibrant university scene with modern eateries and markets.
In spring and summer, flower-filled squares and riverfront walks invite relaxed exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through Erfurt's charming Old Town, where you can marvel at the beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Visit the iconic Dom Cathedral and St. Severus Church, both of which boast stunning Gothic designs. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic city.
Stroll through the Merchant's Bridge, filled with quaint shops and boutiques, experiencing the unique atmosphere of the old trading hub. Stop for lunch at one of the traditional German restaurants nearby to savor local specialties. Afterward, visit the Augustinerkloster, a former Augustinian monastery where Martin Luther lived and studied.
As the sun sets, unwind with a leisurely walk towards the Erfurt Synagogue, one of the oldest in Europe, now housing a fascinating museum. For dinner, indulge in authentic Thuringian cuisine at a cozy tavern, such as bratwurst and homemade potato dumplings. End your evening by enjoying a local beer at a nearby beer garden, soaking up the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day immersed in nature at the Erfurt Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through lush green spaces and diverse plant collections. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the flowers and trees, perfect for a peaceful morning. Consider bringing along a picnic breakfast or taking advantage of the café on-site.
After exploring the gardens, head back to the city center for lunch at a local brasserie that offers seasonal dishes with fresh ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Krämerbrücke (Merchant's Bridge) to shop for unique crafts and artisanal goods. The bridge's scenic views along the Gera River offer a delightful backdrop during your afternoon shopping adventure.
In the evening, enjoy a lakeside stroll around the nearby Stadtpark, where you can relax and unwind as the sun sets. Dine at a restaurant that features a fusion of local and international dishes, making for an exciting dining experience. Consider ending the night with a cultural event, such as a concert or theater performance at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌1-day public transport pass | $8-12 |
| 🍷Beer at a bar | $4-7 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and a walkable, compact city center
- Excellent accessibility by tram and train, making day trips easy
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger German cities
- Tourist concentrations around Domplatz can be busy in peak seasons
- "Guten Tag" - Hello
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Erfurt
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic timber-framed bridge lined with shops; classic Halftimbered façades make for iconic photos.
Gothic-Romanesque towers and intricate stonework offer dramatic architectural photography.
Panoramic vantage point over the city with the fortress serving as a dramatic backdrop.
Lush botanical gardens and glasshouses with colorful plant displays and dynamic landscapes.
Food in Erfurt
Erfurt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Thuringian sausage grilled over charcoal, best enjoyed with mustard and a pretzel.
Must-Try!
Fluffy potato dumplings served with gravies and roasts.
Savory onion tart often paired with a beer; perfect for a café or bakery visit.
Beef roulade filled with pickles and onions, served with potatoes and gravy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local produce, flowers, and regional specialties just steps from the cathedral.
Iconic bridge with stalls selling crafts, snacks, and small bites along a historic route.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; greet with a firm handshake and use formal 'Sie' in initial interactions.
Evenings after 10 pm are typically quieter; avoid loud behavior in residential areas late at night.
Germans value orderly lines and direct communication; say please and thank you, and address people politely.
Safety
Tipping in Erfurt
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, a tip of about 5-10% is customary in restaurants if service was good; you can round up the bill or leave extra in cash.
Cash is widely accepted, and cards are increasingly common in shops and larger restaurants; many cafes and some markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant to warm temperatures; occasional thunderstorms. Ideal for river walks, outdoor markets, and outdoor café seating.
Crimson and gold foliage with mild weather; harvest markets, pumpkin displays, and comfortable walking conditions.
Cold with possible snow; Christmas markets on and around Domplatz create a festive atmosphere. Layer up for outdoor strolls.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; early-season markets and city parks become very photogenic.
Erfurt at Night
Hiking in Erfurt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic climb to a hilltop with panoramic city views and the historic Petersberg fortress.
World-renowned long-distance trail across the Thuringian Forest; multiple day-trip sections accessible from nearby towns.
Scenic paths along the Ilm River and around the Tiefurt estate for relaxed countryside hiking.
Airports
How to reach Erfurt by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic and limited international flights; easy access to the city by rail or taxi.
Larger international airport about 190 km north; good connections to many European hubs.
Major international hub about 250 km northeast; frequent long-haul and European connections.
Regional airport about 150 km east; convenient for Central European travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Home to the University of Erfurt and Fachhochschule Erfurt, bringing a youthful, international vibe to the city.
Longtime residents in historic districts and newer suburbs.
Year-round visitors attracted by Dom, Krämerbrücke, and Thuringian culture.
Residents with Turkish, Russian-speaking and other backgrounds enriching local culture.
Quieter neighborhoods with access to parks, museums, and healthcare.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved sport in schools and clubs with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Popular for both road and mountain biking; scenic routes around Thuringia appeal to riders of all levels.
A traditional team sport with local clubs and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erfurt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many venues offer vegetarian options; look for marked veggie dishes or ask for 'ohne Fleisch' (without meat).
Vegan choices exist; request 'vegan' or 'ohne tierische Produkte' and check dairy or egg ingredients in baked goods or dumplings.