Things To Do
in Erfurt

Erfurt is the capital city of Thuringia, Germany, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city features a stunning old town with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the impressive Erfurt Cathedral. Visitors can enjoy its beautiful parks, lively markets, and rich history, which includes significant events from the Reformation.

Erfurt serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding Thuringian countryside and nearby attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day at the Erfurt Cathedral (Dom St. Marien) and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the Augustinerkloster, where Martin Luther lived, and explore the medieval architecture of the Krämerbrücke (Merchants' Bridge).

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Gera river.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Angermuseum, which showcases Thuringian art and culture.

afternoon
:

Spend some time at Egapark, a beautiful park with botanical gardens, playgrounds, and relaxing walking paths.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out in the lively bars of the Old Town, soaking in the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture
  • Beautiful medieval architecture
  • Friendly locals and great food
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Erfurt

Visit one of these nice places.

Krämerbrücke

This picturesque bridge lined with medieval buildings is perfect for capturing the charm of Erfurt.

Erfurt Cathedral

The stunning architecture and vantage point from the cathedral tower create amazing photo opportunities.

Petersberg Citadel

Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, this historic site is a photographer's dream.

Culinary Guide

Food in Erfurt

Erfurt boasts a diverse culinary scene with traditional dishes and local specialties that are a must-try for any visitor.

Erfurt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Thüringer Bratwurst

A famous sausage made from pork, seasoned with marjoram, and often served in a bun with mustard.

Must-Try!

Krämerbrücke Plätzchen

Sweet cookies that originate from the Krämerbrücke, often enjoyed with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Erfurt Market Square

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food vendors selling bratwurst and pretzels.

Climate Guide

Weather

Erfurt experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in winter to around 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella. The city also experiences occasional snowfall in winter, enhancing the picturesque scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being on time for meetings and appointments is considered respectful.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; addressing people by their titles is appreciated.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Keeping noise to a minimum in public places, such as public transport, is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Erfurt is generally a safe city for travelers; however, standard precautions should be taken. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals provide reliable healthcare services.

Tipping in Erfurt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 10% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with events and markets; expect crowds at popular attractions.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful fall colors and the famous Erfurt Christmas market starts to prepare in late fall.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow create a magical atmosphere, especially during the Christmas market season.

Nightlife Guide

Erfurt at Night

Erfurt's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of traditional pubs, trendy bars, and clubs. The Old Town is home to many establishments where locals and visitors gather to enjoy drinks and socialize. Live music events and cultural performances are common, especially during weekends. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle and enjoy the local scene.

Hiking in Erfurt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hainich National Park

Located about 30 km from Erfurt, this park features diverse landscapes and well-marked trails amidst ancient beech forests.

Drei Gleichen

This hiking area offers trails with varying difficulty levels and stunning views of the historic castles and surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Erfurt by plane.

Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF)

Located about 5 km from the city center, the airport offers flights to several domestic and European destinations, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Erfurt is highly walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within a short distance of each other. The cobblestone streets add charm but can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Many areas are pedestrian-only, making it easy to explore on foot without the hassle of traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Erfurt has a significant student population due to its universities, contributing to a youthful and vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Erfurt, attracted by the city's quality of life, parks, and educational facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Erfurt, with local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting matches.

Handball

Handball also enjoys popularity in the region, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Erfurt is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation is well-developed, including trams and buses that connect various parts of the city efficiently. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with designated bike lanes available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Erfurt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu or ask staff for options.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in larger restaurants; however, it's best to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Erfurt is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency medical services can be reached easily by calling 112. Most medical facilities have English-speaking staff, particularly in larger hospitals, ensuring that non-German speakers can receive assistance.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide