Things To Do
in Erlangen

Erlangen is a charming city located in Bavaria, Germany, known for its rich academic heritage and vibrant cultural scene. It is home to Friedrich-Alexander University, which adds a youthful energy to the city and fosters a lively atmosphere. The city's beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Hugenottenplatz, offer a respite from urban life.

Erlangen also hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from the local beer culture to its historical roots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Erlangen Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll among diverse plant species.

afternoon
:

Head to the Erlangen Marktplatz to explore local shops, grab lunch at a nearby café, and visit the stunning Erlangen Town Hall.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant and then take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the city center.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Erlangen Schloss and its beautiful gardens, taking time to appreciate the architecture and history.

afternoon
:

Explore the local museums, like the Erlangen Art Museum, and enjoy a coffee break at a nearby café.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local brewery for dinner and sampling regional beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Beer at a Bar$4
🚆Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Vibrant university town atmosphere.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not cover all areas extensively.
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Erlangen

Visit one of these nice places.

Erlangen Schloss

The beautiful palace surrounded by lush gardens is perfect for capturing stunning architectural shots.

Hugenottenplatz

This bustling square is ideal for street photography, especially during festivals.

Botanical Garden

With its rich variety of flora, the garden provides a picturesque backdrop for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Erlangen

Erlangen offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Bavarian dishes and modern gastronomy.

Erlangen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Schäufele

A traditional Bavarian pork dish, slow-roasted and served with dumplings and sauerkraut.

Must-Try!

Bratwurst

Local sausages that are grilled to perfection, often served in a bun with mustard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Erlangen Farmers Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Erlangen has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and pleasant, averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn are characterized by mild temperatures and occasional rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued; lateness can be considered disrespectful.

Greeting

A firm handshake is the common way to greet someone, accompanied by eye contact.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Keeping noise levels down in public transport and other shared spaces is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Erlangen is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Erlangen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or add around 5-10% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but having cash on hand is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract many tourists, ideal for festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and several local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold weather can bring snow, creating a picturesque winter scene, but be prepared for shorter days.

Nightlife Guide

Erlangen at Night

Erlangen's nightlife is vibrant, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city is known for its beer gardens, where locals gather to enjoy drinks and socialize. University students contribute to the lively atmosphere, especially during the week. Live music and DJ events can be found in several venues, ensuring entertainment throughout the night.

Hiking in Erlangen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Franconian Switzerland

A nearby hiking region known for its stunning rock formations and scenic trails, perfect for day trips.

Brombachsee

Offers beautiful lakeside hiking trails, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Airports

How to reach Erlangen by plane.

Nuremberg Airport (NUE)

Located approximately 20 kilometers from Erlangen, Nuremberg Airport is the closest airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Erlangen is a highly walkable city, with pedestrian-friendly streets and numerous parks. Most attractions are located within a short walking distance from one another, making it easy to explore on foot. The layout encourages leisurely strolls, and there are plenty of benches and green spaces to rest.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of Erlangen's population consists of university students, contributing to the city's dynamic and youthful culture.

Families

Erlangen is home to many families, enjoying the peaceful environment, parks, and good educational facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in the region, with many local clubs and events attracting passionate fans.

Basketball

Basketball is also gaining popularity, especially among the younger population, with several local teams competing.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Erlangen is generally manageable, with peak hours experienced during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and trams, which are reliable and provide good coverage throughout the city. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, thanks to dedicated bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Erlangen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, though it's advisable to check ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries provide gluten-free dishes, but it's best to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Erlangen offers excellent healthcare services, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and tourists. Emergency medical services can be reached easily, and many doctors speak English. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide