Erfurt in 3 Days: Old Town, Museums & Markets

Discover the enchanting history and culture of Erfurt, a city that promises to captivate your senses.

22 April 2023

Erfurt is a charming city in central Germany with a rich history and many cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city's medieval architecture and historical landmarks, such as the stunning Erfurt Cathedral and the picturesque Krämerbrücke Bridge. Foodies will also appreciate the city's vibrant culinary scene, with traditional local dishes like Thuringian sausages and potato dumplings to savor.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into Hotel Krämerbrücke, a charming medieval hotel in the heart of the city
  • Visit the iconic Krämerbrücke Bridge, lined with picturesque half-timbered houses and artisans' workshops
  • Wander through the maze-like streets of the Altstadt, taking in the Gothic churches, Baroque palaces and quaint squares
  • Climb the staircase of the St. Augustine's Monastery to enjoy panoramic views of the city from the bell tower
  • Indulge in a hearty Thuringian meal at Zum Goldenen Schwan, a cosy restaurant that serves local specialities like Rostbratwurst and Klöße
Day 2

Museums and Gardens

  • Visit the Angermuseum, a stunning neo-Classical building housing a vast collection of European art
  • Explore the lush gardens of the egapark, with their colourful flowerbeds, water features and sculptures
  • Marvel at the treasures of the Cathedral Treasure Museum, which includes medieval reliquaries and liturgical objects
  • Take a tour of the Petersberg Citadel, a 17th-century fortress that housed Napoleon's troops during the War of Liberation
  • Relax with a cup of coffee and a slice of Baumkuchen at Café Nerly, a trendy cafe that occupies a historic art nouveau building
Day 3

Day Trips and Marketplaces

  • Take a day trip to nearby Weimar, the birthplace of German classicism and home to landmarks like the Goethehaus and the Bauhaus Museum
  • Peruse the stalls of the Erfurt Christmas Market, which transforms the Domplatz into a winter wonderland during the festive season
  • Visit the Fischmarkt, a bustling market square that sells fresh produce, crafts and souvenirs
  • Take a guided tour of the Old Synagogue, an important testament to Erfurt's Jewish heritage
  • End your day with a glass of local wine and some tapas at the chic Weinhaus Theodor, a stylish wine bar housed in a historic merchant's house.

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.

More travel plans

The Ultimate 2-Day Erfurt Adventure on a Budget.

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.

Erfurt Escapades: 3 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

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.

Discover Erfurt: A Fun-Filled Weekend Itinerary

Erfurt is a charming medieval town in the heart of Germany that boasts historic buildings and picturesque streets. Visitors can stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit the stunning Cathedral of Saint Mary and Saint Severus, and explore the many museums and galleries that the city has to offer. With its friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere, Erfurt is the perfect destination for a weekend break.

Erfurt in 3 Days: Old Town, Museums & Markets

Erfurt is a charming city in central Germany with a rich history and many cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city's medieval architecture and historical landmarks, such as the stunning Erfurt Cathedral and the picturesque Krämerbrücke Bridge. Foodies will also appreciate the city's vibrant culinary scene, with traditional local dishes like Thuringian sausages and potato dumplings to savor.