Erfurt on a Budget: 4 Days of Medieval Magic

Experience the charm of Erfurt without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Erfurt is a charming medieval town in central Germany known for its picturesque squares and historical landmarks. Despite being a popular tourist destination, visitors can explore the town on a limited budget by walking around and admiring the stunning architecture of the churches, houses, and bridges. Affordable lodging options include hostels and budget hotels, while local markets and street vendors offer delicious and inexpensive food.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and First Impressions

  • Check in at the IntercityHotel Erfurt conveniently located, modern and not overly expensive.
  • Wander around the enchanting old town cobbled streets, gorgeous architecture and colorful flowers everywhere.
  • Discover the Merchants' Bridge the oldest inhabited bridge in Europe, lined with quirky shops and cafes.
  • Explore the Cathedral Square home to Erfurt's most stunning and famous landmarks, including the St. Mary's Cathedral and the Severi Church.
  • Enjoy a hearty and affordable German meal at the Die Kaffeebar restaurant, with a cozy and charming atmosphere.
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Visit the Erfurt Synagogue a beautiful and poignant memorial to Jewish life and culture, featuring a moving exhibition.
  • Delve into the past at the Stasi Museum a fascinating and chilling insight into the secret police of the former East Germany.
  • Take a tour of the Augustinerkloster a historic monastery where Martin Luther lived as a monk and sparked the Protestant Reformation.
  • Admire the fine art and impressive collections at the Angermuseum expect some surprising and unconventional works.
  • Indulge in some of Erfurt's best ice cream at the quaint Eiscafé Il Mondo, with a dizzying array of flavors.
Day 3

Nature and Relaxation

  • Take a scenic stroll along the banks of the Gera River a tranquil and picturesque oasis in the midst of the city.
  • Explore the lush greenery and diverse flora at the egapark a stunning botanical garden with a tropical greenhouse and a mini zoo.
  • Unwind in the thermal baths of the Johannesbad a rejuvenating spa with soothing pools, saunas and massages.
  • Hike up the Domberg hill a challenging climb but rewarding views of the city and countryside.
  • Savor the tastes of Italy at the cozy and authentic Osteria del Buongusto, with homemade pasta and wine.
Day 4

Shopping and Farewell

  • Browse the delightful flea market on the Domplatz a treasure trove of vintage clothes, books, antiques and trinkets.
  • Hunt for bargains at the Galeria Kaufhof a bustling department store with an extensive range of clothing, food and cosmetics.
  • Admire the craftsmanship and uniqueness of the handcrafted items at the Meisterstrasse a charming street full of skilled artisans.
  • Soak up the atmosphere and bid farewell to Erfurt with a pint of beer and some pub grub at the popular Alpenmax.

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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Erfurt on a Budget: A Day of Charm

Explore the medieval charm of Erfurt with a budget-friendly trip. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, visit impressive churches and admire beautiful half-timbered houses. Enjoy local cuisine in affordable restaurants and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem in Germany.

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.

Erfurt, Germany: A Family-Friendly Adventure Through Time

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.

The Ultimate 5-Day Guide to Erfurt, Germany

As a tourist in Erfurt, Germany, you can visit the stunning St. Mary's Cathedral that has breathtaking architecture and rich history. The town of Erfurt is also home to towering bridges, fortified walls, and narrow alleys as well as the famous Krämerbrücke, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe. In addition, you can enjoy Erfurt's vibrant art scene, including the Angermuseum, which has a vast collection of modern art.