5 Days of Fun in Jena, Germany

Explore the enchanting city of Jena, where history meets innovation.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting Acquainted with Jena

  • Check into Hotel Schwarzer Bär in the city center
  • Grab a coffee and pastry at Café Ludwig and people watch by the fountain
  • Explore the botanical gardens and admire the vibrant flora and fauna
  • Visit the Zeiss Planetarium and immerse yourself in the universe
  • Enjoy a beer and hearty German dinner at Gasthaus Zur Noll
Day 2

History and Culture of Jena

  • Start the morning by touring the historic JenTower for panoramic views of the city
  • Walk to the Stadtmuseum to discover Jena's rich cultural past
  • Experience the Bucher Museum, filled with unique artifacts
  • Sit and ponder at the famous Philosophenweg, a trail that inspired many famous philosophers
  • For dinner, indulge in traditional Thuringian cuisine at Der Burschenschaftsdenkmal
Day 3

Day Trip to Weimar

  • Take a short train ride to the picturesque town of Weimar
  • Visit the Goethe National Museum to learn about Germany's greatest writer
  • See the historic Bauhaus Museum for design and architecture inspiration
  • Stroll through the exquisite park at Schloss Belvedere and admire the palace
  • Take a break at Café Residenz, known for its decadent cakes and coffee
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures

  • Wake up early for a hike up to the spectacular view of Jenzig mountain
  • Rent bikes and explore the nearby Saale river and forest trails
  • Head down to the Paradise Beach Club for a refreshing swim or sunbathe
  • Treat yourself with fresh seafood and cocktails at the charming Saalfelder Bierstuben
  • Attend an outdoor concert or movie at KulturArena for a thrilling night.
Day 5

Last Day in Jena

  • Visit the prestigious Friedrich Schiller University and its unique architecture
  • Explore the idyllic city parks and have a picnic
  • Buy some souvenirs and quirky finds at the Sunday Flea Market
  • Grab a pizza and beer at Bierhimmel
  • Stroll over to the charming market square and watch the street performers as the sun sets.

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.

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