Things To Do
in Ohrdruf

Ohrdruf is a small but historically rich town located in the state of Thuringia, Germany. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and significant cultural heritage, having been the birthplace of famous composer Johann Sebastian Bach's family. The town offers a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet getaway.

Ohrdruf serves as a gateway to various outdoor activities and is surrounded by lush forests and hills.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Ohrdruf's History and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ohrdruf Museum, which showcases local history and culture. Follow this with a leisurely stroll through the historic town center, admiring the architecture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then head to the nearby Thuringian Forest for a hike, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

evening
:

Finish your day with dinner at a traditional German restaurant, followed by a walk around the town square to soak in the local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trips and Local Culture
morning
:

Take a short drive to nearby Eisenach to visit the famous Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

afternoon
:

Return to Ohrdruf for lunch, then visit the local artisans and shops to pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed evening at a local beer garden, sampling regional brews and chatting with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Beer$3-$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$80-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be quiet, especially in off-peak seasons
  • Public transport may not be as frequent as in larger cities
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Ohrdruf

Visit one of these nice places.

Ohrdruf Town Square

A picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of the town.

Thuringian Forest

Stunning natural landscapes, ideal for nature photography and capturing the beauty of the region.

Wartburg Castle

A majestic castle that offers panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ohrdruf

Ohrdruf offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring traditional Thuringian dishes that highlight the region's flavors and ingredients.

Ohrdruf Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Thüringer Bratwurst

A famous grilled sausage made from pork and seasoned with spices, typically enjoyed with mustard and sauerkraut.

Must-Try!

Kloß

A type of potato dumpling often served as a side dish with meats and gravies.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ohrdruf Weekly Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ohrdruf experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, averaging around 0°C (32°F), while summers are mild to warm, averaging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in late spring and summer. Snow is common in winter, making it picturesque but requiring proper clothing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time, and it's polite to greet with 'Guten Tag'.

Punctuality

Being on time is considered important in German culture; lateness can be seen as disrespectful.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while dining, and say 'Guten Appetit' before starting your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ohrdruf is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard precautions such as securing belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Ohrdruf

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave around 5-10% as a tip in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather brings blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.

Summer

Warm temperatures invite tourists for hiking and outdoor festivals; however, it can be crowded.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange, providing stunning views and excellent photography opportunities.

Winter

Cold weather can bring snow, creating a picturesque winter landscape, but be prepared for chilly temperatures.

Nightlife Guide

Ohrdruf at Night

Ohrdruf has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few pubs and beer gardens offering local brews and a cozy atmosphere. Most places close early, making it a great spot for unwinding rather than partying. On weekends, you might find live music or community events that draw locals and visitors alike.

Hiking in Ohrdruf

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rennsteig Trail

A famous long-distance hiking trail in the Thuringian Forest, offering stunning views and various difficulty levels.

Mühlhäuser Weg

A scenic trail that winds through the countryside, suitable for casual hikers and families.

Airports

How to reach Ohrdruf by plane.

Erfurt-Weimar Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Ohrdruf, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ohrdruf is a compact town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to explore comfortably on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common, enhancing the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Ohrdruf is home to many families who appreciate the town’s peaceful environment and good schools.

Retirees

The town attracts retirees seeking a quiet lifestyle surrounded by nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular in the region, with local clubs and a strong community following.

Cycling

The scenic routes in and around Ohrdruf make cycling a favorite pastime for both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ohrdruf is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, though schedules may be limited. It's advisable to check local timetables for the best travel options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ohrdruf.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications to traditional meat dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more available, especially in larger restaurants, but check with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ohrdruf is adequate, with a local clinic and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more specialized care, residents often travel to nearby cities like Gotha or Erfurt, where hospitals and specialists are situated. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide