Things To Do
in Erlangen
Erlangen is a compact university town in Bavaria, Germany, known for its blend of baroque charm and modern research campuses. It is home to Friedrich-Alexander University and a thriving tech scene, creating a lively student-driven atmosphere. The city sits along the Regnitz river and offers green spaces, a reachable Schlossgarten, and a culture calendar ranging from museums to beer gardens.
Visitors enjoy a walkable center with café culture, Franconian cuisine, and easy day trips to Nuremberg and the Franconian countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets of Erlangen's historic center, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Marktplatz, where you can find local produce and artisanal goods.
In the afternoon, delve into Erlangen's rich history by visiting the Erlangen Castle, where you can explore the beautifully manicured gardens. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the Botanical Garden, home to a diverse collection of plants and serene landscapes. Enjoy a picnic lunch among the flowers, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
As the sun sets, head to one of the traditional German restaurants in the center, where you can indulge in local specialties like sausages and pretzels. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the canals, enjoying the reflections of the city lights in the water. Conclude your day with a visit to a local pub for a taste of Erlangen's famous beer.
Start your day with a visit to Friedrich-Alexander University, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Germany, where you can admire the stunning architecture and vibrant campus life. Attend a public lecture or seminar if available, immersing yourself in local academic culture. Take a moment to appreciate the historic buildings and the university's beautiful surroundings.
After lunch, explore the university's art gallery, which showcases contemporary and historical works by both local and international artists. Spend some time in the university library, perhaps reading up on Erlangen's history or German literature. Wrap up your visit by relaxing in the nearby Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy the tranquility and variety of plant life.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance at the university theater, ranging from music concerts to theatrical plays. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as students and locals come together to celebrate the arts. After the show, grab a light dinner at a nearby eatery and mingle with fellow attendees.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $70-90 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $1200-1600 |
| 🧺Groceries per week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable city center
- Strong university and research culture
- Good public transport connections to Nuremberg and beyond
- Green spaces and parks throughout the city
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Limited high-end dining options within Erlangen itself
- Some attractions close on Sundays or holidays
- "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to have...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Erlangen
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush gardens and the baroque palace provide classic framing for portraits and wide-angle cityscapes.
Historic buildings, colorful façades and market activity offer vibrant street photography opportunities.
Quiet water reflections and evening light create mood shots along the river.
Contemporary campus buildings and the fusion of old and new give interesting architectural shots.
Food in Erlangen
Erlangen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Franconian roast pork shoulder served with dumplings and gravy.
Must-Try!
Grilled sausages served with sauerkraut or Kartoffelsalat (potato salad).
Cheesy egg noodles with fried onions; a favorite comfort dish.
Sausages with onions and vinegar served with fresh bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market with fresh produce, breads, cheeses, sausages and pretzels.
Local stalls offering seasonal fruit, vegetables, honey, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' and a handshake in formal settings.
Stand in lines patiently; avoid loud talk in quiet spaces like churches or museums.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Erlangen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; cash or card tips are accepted.
Most places accept cash (Euro) and cards; contactless payments are widespread; small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise gradually; flowers bloom in the parks; expect occasional showers.
Warm days ideal for outdoor cafés and river walks; occasional heat and thunderstorms.
Autumn colours in parks like Schlossgarten; cooler temperatures and comfortable walking weather.
Cold with possible snow; indoor cultural events and Christmas markets bring festive vibes.
Erlangen at Night
Hiking in Erlangen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic region with rock formations, caves, and numerous hiking trails about 1 hour from Erlangen by car.
Paved and dirt trails along the Regnitz river suitable for easy day hikes or runs.
Local forested areas offering shorter, shaded hikes close to the city.
Airports
How to reach Erlangen by plane.
The closest major airport, about 20-25 km away, with convenient rail and road connections to Erlangen.
Major international hub about 170 km away, accessible by car or high-speed rail connections.
Large international hub roughly 300 km away, reachable by rail or road for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population is from FAU and research institutes.
Many residents are families living in the city’s residential neighborhoods.
FAU’s international programs attract students and professionals from abroad.
A stable community with retirees and long-term residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is very popular; local clubs and fan culture are strong around university and city leagues.
The flat to rolling Franconian terrain makes cycling and running popular among locals and students.
Indoor sports and gym facilities are widely used by residents and students.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erlangen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; ask for meat-free versions of regional dishes and check for gelatin or animal-based stocks in soups.