Erlangen on a Budget: History, Culture, Nature!

Experience the charm of Erlangen without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Erlangen, Germany is a great destination for budget travelers. Explore the Old Town's castles, fountains, and beautiful gardens, which are free to visit. Stay in affordable hostels or budget hotels and enjoy economical yet delicious German food at local cafes and restaurants.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Erlangen's Historic Charm

  • Check-in at Hotel Central: a cozy budget-friendly option in the heart of the city.
  • Visit the Marktplatz: a bustling square surrounded by baroque architecture, street vendors and cafes.
  • Stroll through the Erlangen Palace Gardens: a scenic refuge with whimsical statues and a charming lake.
  • Tour the Botanical Garden: a lush oasis with exotic flora from all over the world.
  • Dinner at Kartoffelkeller: a rustic restaurant serving up hearty German fare, a perfect way to end the day.
Day 2

Discovering Erlangen's Cultural Scene

  • Breakfast at Cafe Simon: a charming spot with delicious pastries and great coffee.
  • Museum Erlangen: an interactive museum with exhibits on science, art and history.
  • Art Gallery in Fuerth: a gallery showcasing eclectic contemporary art from local and international artists.
  • Lunch at Osteria Numero Uno: an authentic Italian restaurant with cozy indoor and outdoor seating.
  • Attend a show at the Markgrafentheater: a historic theater with classical, opera and theater performances.
Day 3

Exploring Erlangen's Natural Beauty

  • Have breakfast at Cafe Aroma, serving traditional German breakfast items.
  • Rent a bike from the Central Station and explore the peaceful Franconian countryside.
  • Hike through the Franconian Switzerland: an area of outstanding natural beauty with breathtaking views.
  • Have a picnic at the Dechsendorfer Weiher: a serene lake with plenty of picnicking spots.
  • Finish the day with dinner at Frankenstuben: a cozy restaurant with seasonal local cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere.
  • With its rich history, cultural attractions and natural beauty, Erlangen has something for everyone. This itinerary will provide you with a diverse and unforgettable trip, without breaking the bank. Enjoy!

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 Erlangen by plane is to fly to Nuremberg Airport and then take a train from Nuremberg to Erlangen. There are direct flights to Nuremberg from major cities in Europe and the airport is only 19 km away from Erlangen.

Car

To reach Erlangen by car, the best option is to take the A3 or A9 motorway, depending on where you are coming from. From Frankfurt, take the A3 towards Würzburg and then change onto the A73 towards Erlangen. From Munich, take the A9 towards Berlin and then the A3 towards Nuremberg.

Train

One option to reach Erlangen by train is to take a high-speed ICE from Frankfurt to Nuremberg, which takes about two hours, and then change to a local train to Erlangen. Another option is to take a regional train from Munich to Erlangen, which takes about two hours and forty-five minutes.

Boat

There are no direct boat connections to Erlangen as it is located inland. However, you can take a boat trip along the Main-Danube Canal, which passes through Nuremberg about 15 km from Erlangen. From Nuremberg, you can take a train or bus to complete your journey to Erlangen.

Bus

There are several long-distance bus companies that operate routes to Erlangen from various cities in Germany and neighboring countries. Flixbus and Eurolines are two popular companies that offer multiple daily departures to Erlangen.

Destination

Erlangen

Welcome to a charming town known for its beautiful green spaces, delicious beer and a peculiar pronunciation that will have you saying Er-what? all day long.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Budget-Friendly Erlangen: 5 Days of Fun & Culture

Erlangen in Germany is an excellent destination for travelers with limited budgets seeking a mix of history and culture. Visitors can explore the city's historical landmarks such as the Erlangen Castle, Botanical Garden, and the Palace Gardens without breaking the bank. In addition to these attractions, tourists on a budget can visit various affordable restaurants and coffee shops for a taste of local German cuisine.

Five Days of Fun: Exploring Erlangen, Germany

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Erlangen Escapades: Uncover Family Fun on a Budget!

Erlangen, Germany offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its charming atmosphere and numerous attractions. Explore the picturesque parks and gardens, such as the beautiful Schlossgarten, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. Discover the fascinating Siemens Museum, where kids can explore the world of technology, or visit the whimsical Erlangen Puppet Theater for some captivating performances that will entertain the whole family.