Things To Do
in Erfurt
Erfurt is a charming and historic city located in the heart of Germany. It is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, featuring picturesque architecture including half-timbered houses and the famous Erfurt Cathedral. The city is also home to the Krämerbrücke, a unique bridge lined with artisan shops.
Erfurt offers a mix of cultural attractions, green spaces, and a lively social scene, making it a popular destination for visitors.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Erfurt Cathedral, where you can admire stunning Gothic architecture. Don't forget to take a stroll through the picturesque Cathedral Square afterward.
Head to the Kramer Bridge, a medieval wooden bridge lined with shops and eateries. Enjoy lunch at a local café and take your time browsing the unique stores.
Spend your evening at Petersberg Citadel, where you can enjoy stunning views over the city. Wrap up the day with dinner at a traditional German restaurant.
Begin your day by visiting the Augustinerkloster, a former monastery with rich history. Take a guided tour to learn about Martin Luther, who lived here for a time.
Explore the historic Fischmarkt, bustling with shops and locals. Grab a quick snack from a street vendor and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Visit the Erfurt's Old Synagogue, one of the oldest surviving synagogues in Europe. Enjoy a quiet dinner nearby, reflecting on the day's history.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture
- Beautiful parks and green spaces
- A vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and theaters
- Strong educational institutions, including universities and vocational schools
- A relatively low cost of living compared to other German cities
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Less international diversity compared to larger cities
- Public transport options may be less extensive
- Weather can be quite cold and damp in winter months
- Some may find the pace of life slower than in major urban areas
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Erfurt
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Erfurt has several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Egapark, where visitors can enjoy walking, picnicking, and exploring various themed gardens.
Explore the historic old town of Erfurt on foot, with guided and self-guided walking tours available to discover landmarks like the Erfurt Cathedral and Krämerbrücke.
Cycle alongside the Gera River on dedicated bike paths, taking in scenic views and enjoying the natural surroundings of Erfurt.
The areas surrounding Erfurt offer various hiking trails for all skill levels, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature and scenic views.
Spend a day at the Thüringer Zoo, which features a variety of animal species and lush green areas perfect for a family outing.
Participate in local festivals and markets throughout the year, such as the Christmas market, where you can enjoy outdoor activities and local crafts.
Take a relaxing boat tour on the Gera River to see the city from a different perspective while enjoying the fresh air.
Tours
Uncover the best of Erfurt with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Erfurt
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic Gothic cathedral situated on a hill, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The architecture and the panoramic view from the top are perfect for photography.
A picturesque medieval bridge lined with timber-framed houses. This unique location provides excellent photo opportunities of both the bridge itself and the lovely riverside.
A beautiful large park featuring diverse gardens, sculptures, and a lookout tower that offers excellent vantage points for city views and nature photography.
With its impressive architecture, this historic theatre is a great spot for capturing artistic photos. The surrounding area adds to the photogenic quality of this location.
A well-preserved fortress that offers not only a glimpse into history but also panoramic views of Erfurt from its walls, making it a fantastic location for stunning cityscape photographs.
A striking church with an impressive facade and interior that provides beautiful backdrops for photography, plus it stands near the Dome for great combined shots.
This vibrant public square features modern architecture and is the perfect place to capture daily life in Erfurt against a contemporary backdrop.
The historic structure with its scenic gardens and walkways offers ample opportunities for capturing both historical architecture and sweeping views of the city.
Food in Erfurt
Erfurt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A succulent grilled sausage made from finely minced pork, often seasoned with marjoram. Best enjoyed at Krämerbrücke, a historic bridge lined with charming eateries.
Must-Try!
A sweet pastry filled with marzipan, almonds, and rum-soaked raisins, available at traditional bakeries like Bäckerei Gerstner.
A flavorsome soup featuring tarragon, potatoes, and vegetables. Can be savored at Gasthaus Feengrotten, known for its cozy ambiance and homely fare.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Erfurt better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
During the festive season, indulge in gingerbread, mulled wine, and grilled specialties at one of Germany's oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets.
Visit this bustling weekly market for a diverse range of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local snacks like Langos, a Hungarian fried bread.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Erfurt, it is common to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Use 'Hallo' for informal settings and 'Guten Tag' for more formal situations.
Germans value punctuality highly. Arriving on time for meetings and social gatherings is seen as a sign of respect. If you are running late, it's polite to inform the person waiting.
When dining in Erfurt, wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. It is customary to say 'Guten Appetit!' before starting your meal. Additionally, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while eating.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Erfurt with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Erfurt
Ensure a smooth experience
In Erfurt, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to round up the bill or add around 5-10% for good service in restaurants. In cafes or bars, rounding up to the nearest Euro is also a common practice. Tipping taxi drivers is customary, usually rounding up the fare or adding a small amount.
In Erfurt, cash is still widely used, but credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in most establishments. Contactless payment options are popular. While it's common to pay at the counter in cafes, in restaurants, it's typical to ask for the bill at the table. The typical payment methods include cash, card, and mobile payment platforms.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Erfurt.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Erfurt as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and warmer temperatures. Expect mild weather, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and local festivals.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Erfurt. You can expect warm weather, vibrant city life, open-air events, and numerous street festivals. However, it can also be crowded, so it's advisable to book accommodations in advance.
Autumn (September to November) offers a picturesque landscape with colorful foliage. The weather is still pleasant, making it a great time for city walks and cultural events like the Erfurt Onion Market. Expect fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
Winter (December to February) in Erfurt can be cold and snowy, but it’s a magical time to visit, especially during the holiday season when the Christmas markets are in full swing. Expect a cozy atmosphere, festive decorations, and opportunities for winter activities.
Erfurt at Night
Hiking in Erfurt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area featuring three historic castles and numerous hiking trails with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
A large protected area with a range of hiking routes, from easy walks to more challenging trails, all amidst lush forests and stunning landscapes.
A picturesque hiking trail that takes you through the historic Kramerbrucke bridge area, offering both nature and cultural experiences.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beech forests and diverse fauna, featuring well-marked hiking paths for all levels.
A beautiful hiking spot with a backdrop of an ancient castle ruins, providing stunning views and a variety of trails to explore.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Erfurt through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Erfurt by plane.
Leipzig/Halle Airport is located approximately 120 kilometers north of Erfurt and serves as a major international airport in the region.
Nuremberg Airport is located about 180 kilometers southeast of Erfurt, serving both domestic and international flights.
Dresden Airport is situated around 150 kilometers northeast of Erfurt and provides a number of international connections.
Frankfurt Airport, located approximately 200 kilometers to the southwest of Erfurt, is one of Europe's busiest international airports.
Munich Airport is about 300 kilometers south of Erfurt and is another major international hub in Germany.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Erfurt, consisting of individuals with German citizenship, encompassing various ethnic backgrounds.
One of the largest immigrant groups in Erfurt, with a significant number of people of Turkish descent.
Including individuals from countries such as Poland, Romania, and Russia, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
A growing demographic, particularly in recent years, as many have relocated to Germany due to conflicts in their home country.
Includes various smaller communities from different parts of the world, including Middle Eastern, African, and Asian backgrounds.
A transient demographic that includes locals and international students attending universities in Erfurt.
The Soul of Erfurt
Discover the essence of Erfurt through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Erfurt, with numerous local clubs and a strong fan base, particularly surrounding the city's professional team, FC Rot-Weiß Erfurt.
Handball enjoys popularity in Erfurt, with several clubs contributing to the sport's presence in the region and participation in national competitions.
Basketball has a growing following in Erfurt, supported by local teams and community leagues that encourage youth participation.
Athletics is a popular choice among many residents, with various events and clubs promoting track and field activities throughout the year.
Volleyball is played both recreationally and competitively in Erfurt, with clubs facilitating play at different skill levels, including beach volleyball during the summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erfurt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Erfurt accommodates vegetarian and vegan diets well, with numerous restaurants offering plant-based dishes. Look out for options like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Tofu Curry.
Several eateries provide gluten-free choices, such as gluten-free pizzas at Pizzeria Rialto and gluten-free bread at local bakeries like Bäckerei Brückner.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Erfurt with these cultural adventures.
