Budget-Friendly Erlangen: 5 Days of Fun & Culture

Get the authentic German experience in Erlangen without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Erlangen

  • Check into the Hotel Smart-Inn
  • Take a stroll through the charming Altstadt (Old Town)
  • Visit the Schlossgarten park for a relaxing walk
  • Enjoy a local beer at Brauerei Kitzmann
  • Feast on delicious German cuisine at Wirtshaus & Biergarten Kreuz+Quer
Day 2

Exploring the City

  • Visit the Historical Museum of Erlangen
  • Take a guided tour of Friedrich-Alexander University
  • Admire the beautiful baroque architecture of Markgräfliches Schloss
  • Wander through the Botanischer Garten Erlangen
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at Martinas Kitchen
Day 3

Discovering Nuremberg

  • Catch a train to Nuremberg (only a 30-minute ride)
  • Visit the Nuremberg Castle for stunning views of the city
  • Have lunch at Bratwurst Röslein, home of the famous Nuremberg sausages
  • Explore the Old Town and its many shops and cafes
  • Finish with a visit to the Germanisches Nationalmuseum
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures

  • Explore the Franconian Switzerland region and its beautiful nature
  • Go for a hike at the nearby Heroldsbacher Wasserfälle
  • Visit the Burg Rabenstein for a medieval experience
  • Have a picnic by the idyllic Pegnitz river
  • End the day with a hearty meal at Brauerei Friedmann
Day 5

Cultural Immersion

  • Visit the Kunstpalais Erlangen for contemporary art exhibitions
  • Take a historic tour of the Bayerische Staatsbibliothek Erlangen
  • Go shopping for unique souvenirs at the Erlangen Christmas Market (in season)
  • Enjoy a concert at the Konzerthalle Erlangen
  • End the trip with a final meal at the cozy and authentic restaurant, Zum Ritter St. Georg
  • Erlangen offers a blend of historical and natural sights, cultural and culinary experiences, and with a limited budget, the city still delivers an unforgettable journey. Don't miss out on this charming destination for your next travel adventure.

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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Escape to Erlangen: A Romantic Weekend Guide

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Erlangen, Germany offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip with its charming blend of history and modern amenities. Explore the picturesque and well-maintained Erlangen Palace garden, which provides ample space for kids to run around and enjoy the playgrounds. Visit the nearby Funpark amusement park, where the family can have a thrilling day filled with rides, games, and delicious food.

Weekend Adventure: Discover Erlangen's Hidden Gems

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