Erfurt, Germany: A Family-Friendly Adventure Through Time

Discover the enchantment of Erfurt – a family-friendly adventure awaits!

19 July 2023

Erfurt, Germany offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a family trip. Explore the picturesque Old Town and marvel at attractions such as Erfurt Cathedral and the Krämerbrücke, a bridge lined with charming houses. Don't miss the Zoopark Erfurt, where kids can discover a wide variety of animals and even pet and feed some of them, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Medieval Charms

  • Check into the magical Krämerbrücke Hotel, a charming accommodation perched on one of Erfurt's iconic medieval bridges.
  • Immerse yourself in the city's rich history at Erfurt Cathedral, an awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece.
  • Meander through the enchanting streets of the Altstadt, discovering hidden gems like the Zum Roten Ochsen, a historic tavern brimming with character.
  • Pay a visit to the Augustinian Monastery, where Martin Luther himself once lived and worked.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Zur Goldenen Henne, a legendary restaurant famed for its Thuringian bratwurst.
Day 2

Flower Power and Picnics

  • Start the day with a blend of aromas at the bustling Erfurt Flower Market, where colorful blooms will leave you feeling mesmerized.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the tranquil banks of the Gera River, a perfect spot for a family picnic.
  • Discover the enchanting Egapark, a flower paradise complete with fragrant gardens and whimsical sculptures.
  • Learn about the fascinating art of creating medieval manuscripts at the Angermuseum, home to a remarkable collection of illuminated manuscripts.
  • Savor a delicious dinner at Schwejk, a quirky Czech-themed restaurant serving hearty, comforting dishes.
Day 3

Castles and Caves

  • Embark on an adventure to the magnificent Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site just a short drive from Erfurt.
  • Explore the castle's labyrinthine halls, imagining knights and damsels in distress as you wander through the medieval chambers.
  • Traverse through a hidden world underground at the Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes, gazing in awe at the shimmering stalagmites and stalactites.
  • Enjoy a delectable lunch at Oma Ursel's Küche, a charming eatery serving traditional Thuringian cuisine.
  • Return to Erfurt and indulge in some retail therapy at the stylish Anger 1 shopping center.
Day 4

Parks and Puppet Theatre

  • Begin the day with a visit to the beautiful park of Petersberg Citadel, soaking up panoramic views of Erfurt from atop its fortified walls.
  • Experience the whimsical wonderland of Erfurt Puppet Theatre, where marionettes come to life in spellbinding performances.
  • Unleash your inner artist at Glasburg, a unique glassblowing studio where you can create your own beautiful glass masterpiece.
  • Refuel with a hearty lunch at Obenkino Café, a quirky eatery nestled in a charming art cinema.
  • End your trip with a cruise along the scenic waters of Gera River, taking in the picturesque landscapes and reflecting on the extraordinary adventures in 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.

More travel plans

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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.

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