3-Day Fun-Filled Jena Germany Getaway

Discover the heart of Thuringia in Jena, Germany.

03 May 2023

Jena, Germany is a charming town that boasts a rich history, fine architecture, and lush natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, visit the Zeiss-Planetarium, and take in stunning panoramic views from the Landgrafen lookout. The city is also located near several picturesque hiking trails and the popular Saale cycle path.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into Hotel Schwarzer Bär, a charming hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Get a taste of Jena's history by taking a walking tour of the Old Town, stopping to see St. Michael's Church and the Goethe monument.
  • Wander through the Botanical Gardens, a peaceful retreat filled with vibrant flowers, towering trees, and trickling streams.
  • Grab a bite to eat at Café Wagner, a cozy spot known for its homemade cakes and pies.
  • End the day with a pint of beer at Der Stiefel, a traditional German pub with a laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals.
Day 2

Embracing the Outdoors

  • Start the day off with a hike to the Landgrafen viewpoint, where you'll have a breathtaking panorama of the city.
  • Rent a bike and head to Paradies Park, a sprawling green space that offers everything from playgrounds to a mini-golf course.
  • Take a break at the outdoor café La Vie, where you can enjoy a fresh salad and a cup of coffee while soaking up the sunshine.
  • Try your hand at kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Saale River.
  • Dine al fresco at the Greek restaurant Poseidon, which boasts a charming courtyard and delicious seafood dishes.
Day 3

Cultural Delights

  • Begin your morning at the Optical Museum, an intriguing exhibit of optical instruments and artifacts that will have you seeing things in a whole new way.
  • Immerse yourself in Jena's literary past with a visit to Goethe's Garden House, where the famous writer spent much of his time.
  • Explore the city's art scene by stopping at the Kunstverein Jena, a contemporary art gallery with a diverse collection of pieces.
  • Grab a bite at Zum Marktstübchen, a cozy corner restaurant that serves up hearty regional cuisine.
  • End the day with a concert at Kassablanca, an eclectic venue that hosts everything from indie rock to electronic music.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Jena by plane is to fly into Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) and then take the train from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof (Leipzig Central Station) to Jena Paradies Station.

Car

The best way to get to Jena by car is to take the A4 motorway and exit at Jena-Göschwitz or Jena-Zentrum.

Train

The best way to get to Jena by train is to take the ICE train from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Frankfurt Central Station) to Jena Paradies Station.

Boat

There is no waterway transport to Jena as the city is not located near any major rivers or lakes.

Bus

The best way to get to Jena by bus is to take the Flixbus from Berlin Central Bus Station to Jena Bus Station.

More travel plans

5 Days of Fun in Jena, Germany

Jena is a vibrant university city in the heart of Germany, famous for its historical landmarks, festivals and scientific discoveries. Visitors can explore the impressive botanical gardens, climb up to the fairy-tale-like JenTower and visit the Goethe Memorial Museum. Jena also offers fantastic restaurants, bars and cafes where you can sample traditional German food and drinks.

Two Days in Jena: History, Nature, and Culture.

Jena, Germany offers a budget-friendly trip with a variety of attractions and activities to explore. Enjoy the picturesque views on a hike up to the Landgrafen Hill or take a stroll through the historic Old Town. Admire the stunning architecture of the St. Michael's Church or learn about the town's scientific history at the Zeiss Planetarium.

4 Days of Fun in Jena, Germany

Jena is a captivating city in central Germany that offers a mix of history, culture, and nature. Visitors can explore the impressive Zeiss Planetarium and the scenic Saale river while also discovering the city's rich scientific heritage through visits to the Carl Zeiss Foundation and the Ernst Haeckel House. The charming Old Town area, with its cobblestone streets and lively cafes, rounds out the experience and makes Jena a worthwhile destination for any tourist.

Families Delight in Jena: Budget-Friendly Fun Galore!

Jena, Germany offers a perfect blend of rich history and modern attractions, making it an excellent choice for a family friendly trip. Explore the fascinating Optical Museum, boasting interactive exhibits that will captivate children and adults alike. Take a stroll through the picturesque botanical gardens and enjoy the city's laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of parks and green spaces for the little ones to play and unwind.