4 Days of fun and adventure in Erlangen, Germany

Explore the charming Erlangen on a shoestring budget!

21 June 2023

Erlangen, located in the Bavarian region of Germany, offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to those traveling on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the picturesque Old Town and its market square, which features numerous bars and cafes. Additionally, the town's numerous parks and gardens provide ample opportunity for outdoor exploration.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic City

  • Take a stroll around the charming Altstadt (Old Town) area lined with colorful half-timbered houses.
  • Visit the Marktplatz and see the beautifully restored fountain of Neptune.
  • Check out the Erlangen palace, built in 1700 as the residence of the Margraves of Brandenburg-Bayreuth.
  • Head to the Erlangen Botanical Garden to relax amidst stunning flora and fauna.
  • Sample local delicacies like Bratwurst, Sauerkraut and Bavarian beer at the Altstadtfest or the Traditional Bavarian Market.
  • Stay at: B&B Hotel Erlangen – offering clean rooms on a budget
Day 2

Experience Science and Technology

  • Visit the Siemens Museum to discover the history of innovation and technology.
  • Check out the FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, one of the oldest and largest universities in Germany.
  • Explore the Technisches Museum Herzogenaurach to see fascinating mechanical devices and new age electronics.
  • Take a guided tour of the Fraunhofer Institute to learn about the latest research on renewable energy, sustainable living, and digital product design.
  • Relax at the tranquil Adenauer Weiher Lake.
  • Eat at: Happurger Hof – A cozy restaurant serving contemporary German cuisine at good prices.
Day 3

Discover Art and Culture

  • Visit the Kunstpalais to appreciate contemporary and modern art exhibitions.
  • Go to the Markgrafentheater for an intimate performance of classical music and opera.
  • Head to the Erlangen Arcade to shop for fashion and accessories from around the world.
  • Experience the rich heritage of Erlangen at the Stadtmuseum, showcasing historical artifacts and cultural gems.
  • Take an afternoon walk around the Burgberg area, crowned by the majestic Erlangen Castle.
  • Eat at: Restaurant In Vino Veritas A small restaurant with excellent wine selection and delicious Mediterranean hors d'oeuvres.
  • Stay at: Apartment Hotel Kral – offering cozy rooms with kitchenette for self-catering.
Day 4

Outdoors and Nature

  • Hike or bike along the picturesque paths of the Regnitz River, passing through verdant parks and lush meadows.
  • Relax at the Schönbusch Park, a pristine oasis of greenery and flower gardens.
  • Visit the famous Behringersdorfer See to swim, paddle or simply relax under the summer sun.
  • Take a drive to the nearby Franconian Switzerland region, a hotspot for rock climbing and mountaineering.
  • Indulge in local treats like cherry cake and wine at one of the many traditional cafes in the area.
  • Eat at: Kitzmann Bräu A local brewery and restaurant serving tasty German dishes and fresh beer.
  • Stay at: Novotel Erlangen – An affordable hotel with modern amenities in a quiet neighborhood.

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.

More travel plans

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Erlangen, Germany offers an array of experiences for travelers on a limited budget. Explore the charming Old Town, stroll through the Botanical Garden, and visit the baroque palace of the Margraves without emptying your wallet. There are also affordable accommodations and eateries available in the city, making it a great option for a budget-friendly trip.

Erlangen: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

A trip to Erlangen, Germany promises a delightful family-friendly experience with its abundance of attractions and activities. Explore the picturesque city center, dotted with charming half-timbered houses, historical landmarks, and inviting parks. Enjoy a visit to the Botanic Garden, where kids can discover a variety of plant species, or spend a fun-filled day at the Schlossgarten, a beautiful palace garden offering playgrounds, mini-golf, and boating opportunities.

Four-Day Beer and Baroque Adventure in Erlangen.

As a tourist in Erlangen, Germany, one can explore the town's charming streets and beautiful Baroque-style architecture. Visitors can visit the Erlangen Palace, Botanical Gardens, and municipal museum, or hike through the tranquil forests of the Franconian Switzerland region. Erlangen also offers a unique selection of beer gardens and restaurants serving traditional Franconian cuisine.

Five Days of Fun: Exploring Erlangen, Germany

As a tourist, a trip to Erlangen, Germany promises an exploration of the town's rich cultural and architectural heritage. One can explore the historic Huguenot Quarter, enjoy a glass of beer at the local breweries, or marvel at the stunning baroque style castle, the Schlossgarten. With a vibrant food and nightlife scene, Erlangen offers an immersive experience of authentic German culture.