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.

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Travel plan

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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.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Erfurt

Looking for a city with a name that sounds like a sneeze? Then Erfurt is the place for you! But don't let the name scare you away, this charming town has plenty to offer.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Erfurt: A Blissful 3-Day Romantic Retreat

Erfurt, Germany is a stunning destination for a romantic getaway with its medieval architecture, winding river, and spectacular gardens. Couples can explore the picturesque streets and alleyways hand in hand, savor local delicacies like Thüringer Rostbratwurst and Echter Nordhäuser, and indulge in the city's vibrant cultural scene. From candlelit dinners in cozy restaurants to breathtaking views from the top of St. Mary's Cathedral, Erfurt is the perfect romantic retreat.

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 Escape: A Fun-Filled 2-Day Family Adventure!

Erfurt, Germany offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with its charming blend of history and modern attractions. Explore the picturesque Old Town, where you can stroll through winding cobblestone streets, visit the stunning Erfurt Cathedral and marvel at the famous Krämerbrücke, a medieval bridge lined with picturesque half-timbered houses. Kids will love a visit to the impressive Erfurt Zoo, home to a wide range of animals, or they can let out some energy at the Severinsburg Adventure Park, featuring treetop trails and ropes courses.

3 Days of Fun: Erfurt on a Budget

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Erfurt without breaking the bank on this budget-friendly trip. Wander the cobblestone streets of the historic old town, take in the stunning views from the Cathedral Square, and visit the many museums and galleries for a taste of the city's art scene. End the day with a traditional Thuringian meal at a local restaurant, and retire to your cozy accommodation for a good night's sleep.