Erfurt Escapades: 3 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

Discover the enchanting wonders of Erfurt: Where family fun meets German beauty.

19 July 2023

Erfurt, Germany offers a memorable family-friendly experience with its rich history and picturesque landscapes. Explore the medieval charm of the city by visiting the stunning Erfurt Cathedral and marveling at the historic Krämerbrücke, a bridge with shops and houses built in the 14th century. Immerse yourselves in nature by strolling through parks like the egapark, where kids can enjoy themed gardens, playgrounds, and even a butterfly house.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Medieval Charm

  • Start your day by checking into the enchanting Victor's Residenz Hotel, where cozy rooms and friendly staff await.
  • Begin your Erfurt adventure with a stroll around the charming Altstadt, a medieval wonderland boasting picturesque half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets.
  • The highlight of the day is a visit to the stunning Erfurt Cathedral, where you'll be awestruck by its Gothic splendor and breathtaking views from the tower.
  • Indulge in a delectable lunch at Zum Goldenen Schwan, a historic restaurant serving up authentic Thuringian cuisine.
  • In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history at the Erfurt Synagogue, a poignant reminder of the city's Jewish heritage.
  • Wrap up the day by meandering through the Krämerbrücke, a bridge lined with quirky shops selling everything from antiques to local crafts.
Day 2

Gardens, Museums, and Culture

  • Embark on a delightful day at the Egapark, a vibrant botanical garden brimming with colorful flowers, tranquil ponds, and whimsical sculptures.
  • For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Angermuseum is a must, where you'll find an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures.
  • Refuel at the delightful Café Melange, with its cozy atmosphere and delectable pastries that will transport you straight to Vienna.
  • Dive deeper into Erfurt's history at the Stasi Museum, housed in an old GDR secret police building, revealing the dark secrets of East German surveillance.
  • Quench your thirst for knowledge at the German Horticultural Museum, where you'll learn about the rich horticultural heritage of the country.
  • Satisfy your taste buds with an unforgettable dinner at Bester Schurken, a quirky restaurant serving up delicious fusion cuisine with a twist.
Day 3

Riverside Bliss and Culinary Delights

  • Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Gera River, basking in the serene atmosphere and enjoying the scenic views.
  • Venture into the impressive Petersberg Citadel, where you'll uncover centuries of history and marvel at the imposing fortress walls.
  • Head to the Ratskeller, a historic wine cellar-turned-restaurant, for a sumptuous lunch featuring regional specialties and a wide selection of local wines.
  • Indulge your senses at the Erfurt Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with a wide array of fascinating animals from around the world.
  • Treat yourself to a well-deserved dessert at Zuckerladen, a charming café offering delectable sweet treats and an extensive tea selection.
  • Conclude your Erfurt escapade with a memorable dinner at Gaststätte Schneiders, a traditional German pub serving hearty fare and local brews.

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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