The Ultimate 2-Day Erfurt Adventure on a Budget.

Experience Erfurt's charm on a shoestring budget.

22 June 2023

Erfurt is one of Germany's best kept secrets for budget-friendly travel. With its charming old town and historic sites, visitors can easily fill their days exploring the city's rich culture without breaking the bank. From the scenic parks and gardens to the local cuisine, Erfurt offers a truly authentic German experience that won't break the budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Erfurt

  • Hotel: Ibis Budget Erfurt Ost clean and comfortable accommodation at a budget-friendly price.
  • Start your day with a visit to the stunning Erfurt Cathedral, an example of Gothic architecture at its best.
  • Next, head over to the historic Krämerbrücke, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe, lined with charming shops and cafes.
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town, marveling at the beautiful half-timbered houses and cobblestoned streets.
  • For a taste of local cuisine, try the Thuringian Bratwurst at Brühler's, a traditional pork sausage that Erfurt is famous for.
  • End your day with a visit to Petersberg Citadel, a 17th century fortress that offers breathtaking views of the city.
Day 2

Erfurt's Hidden Gems

  • Start your day at the Egapark, a stunning botanical garden that is a sight to behold, especially during spring.
  • Visit Augustinian Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that is home to Martin Luther's cell, where he translated the New Testament into German.
  • Take a walk along the Gera River and soak in the scenic views of the city.
  • Head to Café Nerly for a cup of coffee and a delicious slice of cake.
  • End your day with a visit to the charming Capitolschloss, a Renaissance palace that is home to the Erfurt Museum of Art and Cultural History.
  • Erfurt offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, making it a great destination for budget travelers. With this itinerary, you are sure to make the most of your 2-day trip to Erfurt.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Erfurt, Germany by plane is to fly into Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF) from major cities like Frankfurt, Munich, or Cologne. From the airport, you can catch a taxi or take the tram line 4 towards Bindersleben to reach Erfurt city center.

Car

If you're driving to Erfurt, you can take the A4 autobahn from cities like Frankfurt, Berlin, or Munich. Depending on your starting point, it can take between 2 to 6 hours to reach Erfurt. Once you arrive, you can park your car at one of the many public parking facilities in the city center and explore the city on foot.

Train

If you prefer traveling by train, you can take a high-speed Deutsche Bahn train from major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich to Erfurt Hauptbahnhof. From there, you can take a local train or bus to reach your final destination.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no direct boat connections to Erfurt, as the city is not located near any major waterway. However, you can take a riverboat tour along the nearby Saale river and admire the scenic landscape of Thuringia. The nearest port to Erfurt is located in Naumburg, which is about 50 km away.

Bus

Traveling by bus to Erfurt is also a viable option, especially if you're coming from within Germany or neighboring countries. There are regular bus services from cities like Berlin, Dresden, or Prague, which arrive at Erfurt's Central Bus Station. From there, you can take a taxi or public transport to reach your destination.

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