Things To Do
in Erlangen
Erlangen is a vibrant city located in the Bavarian region of Germany, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is home to a prestigious university, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, attracting students from around the world. Erlangen also hosts an annual beer festival, the Erlanger Bergkirchweih, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy traditional Bavarian food and beer.
With its charming Old Town, picturesque parks, and lively cultural scene, Erlangen offers a mix of historical charm and modern amenities.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the majestic Erlangen Palace and stroll through its beautiful gardens. Take some time to appreciate the architecture and history of the surrounding area.
Head to the Erlangen Botanical Garden to enjoy a peaceful walk among diverse plant species. You can partake in a picnic or relax on a bench while soaking in the sights.
Dine at a local German restaurant and savor traditional dishes. After dinner, take an evening walk through the city center to experience the charm of the illuminated streets.
Start your day at the Erlangen Art Gallery to enjoy contemporary and classical exhibits. Take your time to appreciate the local art scene.
Join a guided tour of the Erlangen University to learn about its history and significance. Explore the campus and enjoy its unique architecture.
Attend a concert or theater performance at one of the local venues. Enjoy the vibrant cultural scene that Erlangen has to offer this evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history with numerous museums and historical sites.
- Strong educational institutions, including the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg.
- High quality of life with a good balance of urban and green spaces.
- Excellent public transportation connectivity.
- Vibrant atmosphere with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Relatively high cost of living compared to other German cities.
- Limited job market in certain sectors outside of academia and high-tech industries.
- Weather can be quite variable with cold winters.
- Not as much nightlife compared to larger cities like Munich or Nuremberg.
- Language barrier for non-German speakers in some local areas.
Best Activities in Erlangen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and hiking trails in the nearby Franconian Switzerland, such as the Walberla mountain and the Ehrenbürg Castle ruins.
Enjoy a day of canoeing on the peaceful Regnitz River, offering a unique perspective of Erlangen's surrounding nature and wildlife.
Take a bike ride along the scenic path of the Regnitz River, allowing you to experience the picturesque countryside and charming towns near Erlangen.
Tours
Uncover the best of Erlangen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Erlangen
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful gardens and park surrounding Erlangen Palace with scenic views.
Botanical garden featuring a variety of plants and landscapes for great photo opportunities.
Historic French Huguenot church offering architectural beauty and unique photo possibilities.
Food in Erlangen
Erlangen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This roasted pork shoulder dish is a local specialty, often served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut. For an authentic taste, visit Gaststätte Roppelt or Altdeutsche Bierstube.
Must-Try!
A savory onion pie that pairs wonderfully with the region's renowned beer. Try it at Erlanger Bergkirchweih, a popular beer festival showcasing local food.
These grilled sausages made from finely minced pork have a distinctive flavor. Enjoy them at the Erlangen weekly market or at historic taverns like Krauß or Bürglaß-Schänke.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Erlangen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. It's a great spot to sample local snacks like pretzels, käsespätzle, and more.
Fischmarkt is the place to savor delicious seafood snacks and street food during special events and markets in Erlangen.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Erlangen, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in a business or formal setting. It's important to maintain eye contact and address people using titles like Herr (Mr.) or Frau (Ms.) followed by their last name unless invited to use their first name.
Germans highly value punctuality, so it's essential to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Erlangen. Being even a few minutes late might be considered disrespectful.
When dining in Erlangen, it's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Additionally, it's customary to say 'Guten Appetit' (enjoy your meal) before beginning to eat. It's also a common practice to keep your hands on the table, not in your lap, during the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Erlangen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Erlangen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Erlangen, Germany, tipping is generally expected, and it is customary to leave a gratuity of around 5-10% at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping. Tipping for other services, such as taxi rides and hotel staff, is also appreciated but not obligatory.
Payment in Erlangen, Germany is commonly made using cash, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are becoming more popular. It's essential to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Erlangen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Erlangen as the city comes to life with colorful blooms and pleasant weather. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful parks and gardens.
Summer in Erlangen brings warm temperatures and longer days, making it ideal for festivals, outdoor events, and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere. The warm weather also allows for activities like hiking and cycling in the surrounding countryside.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Erlangen as the foliage changes to vibrant shades of red and gold. The weather is cooler, and it's a great time for enjoying local wine festivals and harvest celebrations.
Winter in Erlangen is cold, but the city comes alive with festive markets, holiday decorations, and seasonal events. It's a cozy time to explore the city's historic sites and warm up with traditional German cuisine.
Erlangen at Night
Hiking in Erlangen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering diverse landscapes, starting from Erlangen and leading through the surrounding woods and fields.
A popular hiking destination with various trails, providing beautiful views over the region and a chance to explore the local flora.
Located a short drive from Erlangen, this area features a network of trails that wind through the hills and valleys, ideal for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
Offers a range of hiking paths along the river, showcasing picturesque scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
While primarily a city park, it has several walking paths adjacent to nature, great for an easy stroll or light hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Erlangen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Erlangen by plane.
An international airport located near Nuremberg, approximately 15 kilometers from Erlangen, serving as a gateway for domestic and international flights.
One of the busiest airports in Germany, located about 170 kilometers south of Erlangen, offering extensive international flight connections.
Located approximately 210 kilometers southwest of Erlangen, this airport provides numerous international routes and connections.
Germany's largest airport, situated about 250 kilometers northwest of Erlangen, known for its extensive international flight network.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Erlangen, consisting of ethnic Germans who make up the majority of the population.
A significant minority in Erlangen, reflecting the larger Turkish diaspora in Germany.
Including residents from countries such as Italy, France, and Poland, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
Including people from countries such as China and India, representing a growing group in Erlangen.
Comprising refugees and immigrants from various countries in the Middle East.
A smaller but important group consisting of immigrants from various African countries.
The Soul of Erlangen
Discover the essence of Erlangen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Erlangen, with numerous local clubs and a strong community involvement in both playing and supporting teams.
Handball also enjoys a significant following in Erlangen, with local teams competing in various leagues and strong youth programs.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local clubs and events that draw both participants and fans.
Running is a popular recreational activity in Erlangen, with many parks and trails available, along with organized events like marathons and fun runs.
Cycling is widely practiced in Erlangen, both as a means of transportation and as a sport, with several cycling clubs and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erlangen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Erlangen offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from innovative salads to plant-based variations of local favorites like bratwurst and schnitzel.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various eateries, including gluten-free breads, pastries, and dedicated menus outlining suitable choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Erlangen with these cultural adventures.
