erfurt tourist information

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Erfurt

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, is an old university city with a rich history that dates back more than 1,200 years. Once the meeting place of church Synods and Imperial Diets, it was here that the Congress of Erfurt took place in 1808 when Napoleon met with the Tsar of Russia and the German Princes in an attempt to reaffirm old alliances.

As well as being an important center for agriculture and gardening, Erfurt is known as the "many-towered city" for the spires of its cathedral and numerous churches. It's also famous as the place where Martin Luther reputedly had his vision that was to spark the Reformation.

Erfurt is also a great city to explore on foot, and for a fun family thing to do, join one of the regular free walking tours of the many attractions found in the city's Old Town (Altstadt). These family-friendly adventures are hosted daily by Erfurt Tourist Information.

You can find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Erfurt, Germany.

1. Take a Tour of Erfurt Cathedral

2. see europe's oldest synagogue and its historic treasures, 3. visit st. severus church and domplatz, 4. explore the old fish market (fischmarkt), 5. cross over (or under) the old merchants' bridge, 6. learn about erfurt's martin luther connection at the augustinian monastery, 7. shop in anger, 8. visit petersberg citadel, 9. get back to nature at erfurt zoopark, 10. the angermuseum, 11. take a stroll around egapark erfurt, 12. memorial and educational site andreasstraße, 13. take a side trip to molsdorf palace and park, 14. day trip to naumburg to see naumburg cathedral, 15. take a trip to coburg fortress, where to stay in erfurt for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in erfurt.

Roman Catholic Erfurt Cathedral (Erfurter Dom), also known as St. Mary's Cathedral, was founded in AD 742. It was replaced by a Romanesque basilica in 1154, and later additions included its High Gothic choir from 1370 and its three 19th-century towers.

The central tower houses the largest surviving medieval-era bell in the world, the Maria Gloriosa . Also known as the Erfurt Bell, it's famed the world over for the clarity of its tone. The cathedral's 15 tall windows in the choir are masterpieces of medieval stained glass and are unique in Germany for their size and unity of theme.

Among the cathedral's other treasures are its sumptuous Baroque high altar, the finely-carved 14th-century choir-stalls, a stucco figure of the Virgin from 1160, and the mid-13th-century tomb of Count von Gleichen and his two wives. A pleasant café is located on-site, and English language tours can be booked (a fun audioguide for kids and families is also available). For a special treat, be sure to return after nightfall when the cathedral is lit up to spectacular effect.

Address: Domstufen 1, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Built around AD 1100, the Old Synagogue (Alte Synagoge) in Erfurt is the oldest and most famous such religious site in Europe. Today, this well preserved medieval structure houses the excellent Erfurt Treasure (Erfurter Schatz), an extremely rare hoard of coins and jewelry believed to have been hidden during the Black Death of 1349 and the subsequent persecution of the city's Jewish population.

Discovered in 1998 in the city's old Jewish district and believed to have been hidden during a massacre of the Jewish community in the 1300s, the collection includes more than 3,140 silver coins, some 700 gold pieces, and 14 ingots from the 13th and 14th centuries. Also of interest are its reproductions of the original medieval Erfurt Hebrew Manuscripts, now held in the Berlin State Library. Guided tours lasting between 60 to 90 minutes are available.

Other sites related to the city's Jewish community are the Small Synagogue , a 19th-century house of worship, which now houses displays of Jewish life in Erfurt, and the Mikveh , a 13th-century bath used for religious ceremonies, now a museum. Together these sites provide a fascinating look into Jewish culture and lives in this part of Europe during the medieval period.

Address: Waagegasse 8, 99084 Erfurt

Official site: http://juedisches-leben.erfurt.de/jl/en/

St. Severus Church, or the Severikirche, was first mentioned in 1121. Perched atop Erfurt's Domberg (Cathedral Hill), this lovely Early Gothic hall-church boasts double lateral aisles and a richly furnished interior, which includes the tomb of St. Severus from 1365 and a spectacular 15-meter-high font.

Joined to Erfurt Cathedral via a 70-step staircase, these two structures dominate the Domplatz, the historic cathedral square with its handsome old buildings. Also here is the 18th-century Grüne Apotheke (Green Pharmacy) and Zur Hohen Lilie, one of the finest Renaissance buildings in Erfurt.

Guided tours of St. Severus Church are available for a small charge, and can be combined with a tour of the neighboring cathedral.

Address: Severihof 2, 99084 Erfurt

Erfurt's Marktstrasse leads into the Fischmarkt, or Fish Market, where the city's old trade routes once intersected. Highlights of the old square are a figure of Roland from 1591, and Zum Roten Ochsen and Zum Breiten Herd, two richly decorated Renaissance buildings.

Also of note is the attractive Neo-Gothic Town Hall (Rathaus). Built in 1874, it's notable for the large murals of local legends and characters adorning its interior walls. And be sure to look out for the Church of St. Aegidius . Located at the east end of the Old Merchant Bridge (see #5 below), it offers excellent views of the old city from its tower.

Address: Fischmarkt 1, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

A short stroll to the northeast of the Fischmarkt is the city's famous Krämerbrücke, or Merchants' Bridge . First written about in 1117, this magnificent 125-meter-long medieval bridge spans the River Gera and is unique for the many old houses lining its sides. Little changed in 500 years, it's the longest such bridge in Europe.

It's a wonderful place to explore on foot - especially during the Merchants' Bridge Festival in June - and is full of quaint galleries, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants. It's also still home to some 80 residents, who occupy the pleasant old townhomes that line the bridge.

Address: Krämerbrücke, 99084 Erfurt

Official site: www.kraemerbruecke.de/en

Augustinerstrasse is best known for its splendid 13th-century Augustinian Monastery (Augustinerkloster). Founded in 1277 and known in full as Protestant Augustinian Monastery Erfurt, it was here that the young Martin Luther became a monk in 1505. The property can be visited by guided English language tours, which include a look at Luther's tiny room, the Lutherzelle.

Other highlights include the beautiful Comthureihof from 1593 and the St. Elisabeth Chapel with its murals. There's also a fascinating exhibit called Bible Monastery Luther, which details the famous Reformer's time here.

Also of interest are the Georgenburse , the former student quarters where Luther resided as a 17-year-old in 1501. Other highlighths include the Luther Stone , a monument marking the place where the Reformer pledged to become a monk after being saved from death during a storm; and the Luther Trail , which connects Erfurt with 30 other sites across Thuringia. For a truly memorable experience, look into booking an overnight stay at the monastery.

Address: Augustinerstraße 10, 99084 Erfurt

Official site: www.augustinerkloster.de/en/

One of Erfurt's oldest streets, Anger has traditionally been the city's main shopping and trade area. Where once textiles, wool, and wheat were traded in Angerplatz , the central square where the street starts, numerous shops can now be found, from small craft and antique shops to fancy boutiques, galleries, and department stores.

Other tourist attractions include the Angermuseum , housed in the richly decorated Baroque Packhof, with displays of arts and crafts from the Middle Ages to modern times; and the Municipal Museum , housed in the richly decorated Haus Zum Stockfisch. This Late Renaissance building dates from 1607 and outlines the history of the city through informative displays and artifacts.

Anger is also where you'll find St. Bartholomew's Tower (Bartholomäusturm). This 12th-century structure is famous for its carillon of 60 bells.

Another old district of Erfurt that must be visited is Petersberg, or St. Peter's Hill. Here, you'll find St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche), a splendid Romanesque aisled basilica built on the site of an 11th-century monastery and one of the earliest buildings of the Hirsau school in Thuringia.

Also of interest is Petersberg Citadel (Zitadelle Petersberg). Considered one of Europe's largest and best-preserved Baroque fortresses, the citadel is famous for its over two kilometers of sturdy stone walls. It was built in the 17th-century, and a highlight is exploring the fort's extensive maze of underground tunnels. These are accessible as part of a two-hour guided tour of the fortress. Along the way, you'll also see evidence of a Napoleonic-era tunnel, which joined Petersberg Citadel to the smaller Cyriaksburg Citadel.

Also worth visiting is the fort's fully-restored 19th-century bakery, which also includes a café. English language tours are available and can be organized through the local tourism office.

Address: Petersberg, 99084 Erfurt

To the north of Erfurt, on the Roter Berg, is the family-friendly Erfurt Zoo. This fun attraction is home to over 1,060 animals representing some 193 or so species. The zoo is particularly well known for its rare breeds of monkeys, including black-and-white colobuses, John's langurs, Entellus langurs, and Douc langurs.

Other highlights of this 153-acre site overlooking the old city are its African elephants, lions, giraffes, and white rhinos. There's also an interesting aquarium that's worth seeing. Also notable is the fun petting zoo area for those traveling with children, as well as a playground with water activities.

Guided tours are available, and an on-site restaurant, café, and snack bar serve a variety of family-friendly meals.

Address: Am Zoopark 1 99087 Erfurt

The city's first public museum, the Angermuseum was established in 1886 in a historic building notable for housing Erfurt's old public scales. Highlights of the museum's impressive collection of artwork includes examples by such notable German artists as Friedrich Nerly the Elder, famous for his paintings and sketches of Venice.

All told, the museum now houses over 700 paintings of scenes from Italy. German Expressionists represented here include Emil Nolde, Max Pechstein, and Gerhard Marcks, along with a number of rare murals by Erich Heckel.

Also on view are fine examples of graphic art, as well as medieval religious sculptures and paintings. German crafts are represented by a number of rare glass pieces (some as old as 800 years), porcelain, and jewelry.

The Erfurt Natural History Museum (Naturkundemuseum Erfurt) is also worth a visit. It's notable for its interesting displays relating to the geology and animal population of Thuringia.

Address: Anger 18, 99084 Erfurt

Erfurt is also known for its many pleasant public parks and green spaces. One of the best is egapark Erfurt . Established in the 1960s, it's notable for its many period sculptures, and for being home to Europe's largest ornamental flowerbed.

Other attractions here include a pleasant Japanese rock and water garden, a rose garden, and a number of tropical greenhouses. If traveling as a family, be sure to take the kids to the butterfly house. Afterwards, let them blow off steam in what's billed as the state's biggest playground, which includes a petting farm.

Also of interest is Cyriaksburg Castle . Although a relatively small citadel, it's worth visiting for the German Horticultural Museum (Deutsches Gartenbaumuseum), with its interesting displays and exhibits relating to the country's strong affinity to gardening over the centuries.

Address: Gothaer Str. 38, 99094 Erfurt

Erfurt is also where you'll find two important museums that deal with more recent history: the Nazi and Communist regimes. The first of these, the Memorial and Education Centre Andreasstraße (Gedenk- Und Bildungsstatte Andreasstrass) deals with the socialist dictatorship that occupied the region after the war and until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Housed in a former prison run by the infamous Stasi police, the museum's permanent exhibits include fascinating multi-media presentations covering matters such as revolution and imprisonment, as well as a chilling look at the nature of dictatorship. Other highlights include the chance to visit a fully restored prison wing. English language guided tours are available by arrangement.

Equally sobering is Remembrance Topf & Sons - Builders of the Auschwitz Oven (Erinnerungsort Topf & Söhne - Die Ofenbauer von Auschwitz). Housed in the former factory where the infamous ovens and related equipment used to murder millions in Auschwitz was made, this educational center and museum has, since 2011, served as a chilling reminder of the horrors of the Nazi dictatorship. This shocking story of industrial collaboration includes displays from the company's archives and artifacts from the concentration camps in which they were complicit in genocide.

Address: Andreasstraße 37a, 99084 Erfurt

Official site: https://stiftung-ettersberg.de/en/andreasstrasse/

Just 10 kilometers southwest of Erfurt, the moated Molsdorf Palace and Park (Schloss Molsdorf) is one of the finest Rococo palaces in Thuringia. Built by Count von Gotter as a summer palace between 1736 and 1745 and thoroughly restored, it's now a museum open to the public.

Highlights include a hidden spiral staircase in the Count's bedroom; sumptuous period interior décor; and numerous pieces of artwork, including statues and vases. An on-site museum offers fascinating details of the palace's construction and history, as well as the colorful life of Count von Gotter. Guided tours are available.

A café is on-site and overlooks the beautiful park, laid out in 1826 and fun to spend time exploring.

Address: Schloßplatz 6, 99094 Erfurt

Located about 100 kilometers northwest of Erfurt is the Late Romanesque and Early Gothic Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul (Naumburger Dom St. Peter und St. Paul) in Naumburg. Widely regarded as one of Europe's finest cathedrals - it was also recognized as a UNESCO World heritage Site in 2018 - this aisled cruciform basilica with its vaulted roof, twin choirs, four towers, and Romanesque crypt, was built in 1170. It's perhaps best known for the 12 figures of the donors who funded its construction.

Set in the West Choir, these life-size masterpieces, known locally as "Stifterfiguren," were carved from limestone by an unknown local artist in 1250 and include two that have since become known as the city's most famous couple: Ekkehard and Uta.

Other interior highlights of outstanding quality in Naumburg Cathedral are the reliefs of the Passion on the west choir screen, the medieval stained glass in some of the windows, several altars and sculptures, and a number of fine monuments. On the south side of the cathedral, incorporated in the cloister, is the parish Church of St. Mary (Marienkirche).

Address: Domplatz 16, 06618 Naumburg (Saale)

Official site: www.naumburger-dom.de/en/

Located about 90 kilometers south of Erfurt, the former ducal capital of Coburg lies on the southern slopes of the Thuringian Forest on the river Itz, a tributary of the Main. Looming over the city, Coburg Fortress (Veste Coburg) is one of the largest castles in Germany, dating mainly from the 16th century and restored in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The art collections in the Luther rooms here feature impressive displays of old glass, porcelain, and decorated earthenware. Extending up the hill to the castle lies the beautiful Hofgarten (Court Garden) with many important monuments and the mausoleum of the Dukes.

Other Coburg palaces to visit include the magnificent Ehrenburg , formerly the ducal palace, Schloss Rosenau, and Callenberg Palace , a medieval castle with centuries of royal history to reveal.

In the town center, the attractive Markt is a lovely place for a stroll with its Town Hall (Rathaus) dating from 1579 and the former government offices in a richly decorated Late Renaissance building of 1599.

Address: Veste Coburg 1, 96450 Coburg

Official site: www.kunstsammlungen-coburg.de/en/home/

We recommend these conveniently located hotels in Erfurt with easy access to the Old Town:

Luxury Hotels :

• When it comes to a luxury stay in Erfurt, you won't be disappointed when you check into the elegant Dorint Hotel am Dom Erfurt . Just steps away from top tourist attractions, including Erfurt Cathedral and the Old Synagogue, this attractive modern hotel boasts large suites (some with kitchenettes), gorgeous décor, and great amenities, including a fine-dining restaurant overlooking the city.
• Other great choices for centrally located luxury accommodations include Hotel Zumnorde , a chic boutique inn with a variety of larger suites (some with balconies and kitchens); and Victor's Residenz-Hotel Erfurt , an elegant four-star affair offering spacious suites with separate living areas, two restaurants, and complimentary breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Mercure Hotel Erfurt Altstadt is a great mid-priced choice of hotel, popular for its friendly staff; central location; and comfortable, quiet rooms.
• Other mid-range hotels to consider include the Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior , which offers large rooms and suites with work desks and separate seating areas, and Hotel Am Kaisersaal , located close to the cathedral and offering a number of larger rooms with pullouts that are great for those traveling with kids.

Budget Hotels :

• A good option that's very affordably priced can be enjoyed at Pension Gerber . Rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, with some of the larger suites able to sleep up to four guests.
• Other good options include re4hostel , a high-rated yet no-frills hostel-style establishment, which offers a number of private accommodation options in a great central location; and B&B Hotel Erfurt , offering free breakfasts and clean, comfortable rooms.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Take the Train : Just 15 minutes east of Erfurt by rail is Weimar . Widely considered the cultural capital of Germany, it's here you'll find Goethe House, the home for 50 years of famed writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, as well as the Bauhaus Museum, a superb facility that commemorates Germany's most important design movement.

Just 45 minutes farther east are the attractions of Leipzig , including its historic Mädlerpassage, a superb old shopping arcade that is a delight to explore on foot. Bamberg , 45 minutes by train to the south, is another must-visit, this time for its Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), famous for being built in the middle of a bridge.

Magnificent Marketplaces : Germany's historic towns and cities are wonderful places to explore, especially those that have managed to preserve their old marketplaces, or Marktplatz (which is a lot of them!). Favorites include historic Hanover , whose Old Town area centers around the Marktplatz and its attractive church, Marktkirche, as well as the northern port city of Bremen , known for its Marktplatz statue of Roland, the country's best-known knight.

Another important Marktplatz can be enjoyed in Wittenberg . Famous as the birthplace of Reformer Martin Luther, the city's Marktplatz has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the sheer number of important historic buildings located around it.

Bavaria Bound : Bavaria is not only one of the most famous of Germany's states, it's also one of the top places to visit. Fun things to do here include exploring the Bavarian Alps, home to the spectacular Zugspitze, part of the popular Garmisch-Partenkirchen resort region , and the Berchtesgaden National Park, a popular destination for hikers from across Europe.

Bavaria is also where you'll find beautiful Lake Constance , popular for its historic old towns and villages, its lakeside hiking and biking trails, as well as for being home to the magnificent 'flower island' of Mainau.

More on Germany

Erfurt, Thuringia's capital, is one of central Germany's most beguiling and significant cities. Holding its head as high as the former capital to the east, Weimar, it's a wonderfully preserved medieval city of grandiose churches, cobbled market squares, captivating museums and miraculously preserved architecture. And, as a university town, its contemporary culture is anything but backward-looking.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Zitadelle Petersberg

Situated on the Petersberg hill northwest of Domplatz, this 36-hectare citadel ranks among Europe’s largest and best-preserved baroque fortresses. While…

Erfurter Dom

Erfurt's cathedral, where Martin Luther was ordained a priest, grew over the centuries from a simple 8th-century chapel into the stately Gothic pile of…

Augustinerkloster

It’s Luther lore galore at the monastery where the reformer lived from 1505 to 1511, where he was ordained as a monk and where he read his first Mass. You…

Krämerbrücke

Flanked by photogenic half-timbered houses on both sides, this charming 1325 stone bridge is the only one north of the Alps that's still inhabited. To…

Alte Synagoge

This is one of Europe's oldest Jewish houses of worship, dating in part to the 11th century. Following the 'Black Death' pogrom of 1349 it was used as an…

Severikirche

The late-13th-century Severikirche – which together with the adjacent cathedral forms Efrurt's iconic architectural ensemble on Domberg (Cathedral Hill) –…

Egapark Erfurt

It’s easy to spend hours amid the riotous flower beds, Japanese rock garden, Schmetterlinghaus (butterfly house) and greenhouses of the rambling GDR-era…

Angermuseum

Housed inside a fully restored baroque building completed in 1712, the Angermuseum has a strong collection of medieval art, paintings ranging from the…

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• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3 By plane
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Jewish heritage
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge

Erfurt is the capital of the German state of Thuringia (Thüringen). The city is the largest one in that province and likewise a major transportation hub.

Understand [ edit ]

With over 200,000 inhabitants today, Erfurt was an important trading town during the Middle Ages, and has many beautiful old buildings and parks. Its university was one of the oldest in Germany, before it shut down early in the 19th century, but a refounded incarnation dating to just after reunification claims the old and august tradition.

• 50.978453 11.029876 1 Tourist Information ( Touristeninformation ), Benediktsplatz 1 , ☏ +49 361 66400 . M-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su holidays 10:00-15:00 . They also offer guided city tours. ( updated Aug 2017 )

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

Erfurt lies on the intersection of two motorways ( Autobahnen ): A4 and A71. Distances on the motorways to some cities: Berlin 300 km, Leipzig 150 km, Dresden 215 km, Kassel 150 - 200 km depending on route, Frankfurt 260 km, Munich (München) 400 km, Hanover 220 km

By train [ edit ]

There are hourly ICE connections with Leipzig (45 minutes), Nuremberg (1:20 hr), Berlin (1:45–2 hr), Frankfurt (2:10 hr), Munich (2.5 hr), Stuttgart (3:40 hr) and Hamburg (under 4 hr), once in two hours with Dresden (2 hr). Flixtrain serves the city.

By plane [ edit ]

The most useful alternative is Germany's most frequented airport at Frankfurt ( FRA  IATA ), easily reachable by train within 2½-3 hours. Other nearby airports are at Leipzig /Halle (LEJ; just over an hour by train), Nuremberg (1:45 hr) and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (2.5 hr). Munich Airport —Germany's second major airport—is about 3½ hours from Erfurt by train.

By bus [ edit ]

50.974126 11.040614 3 Erfurt intercity bus station

Flixbus and other companies operate here.

Get around [ edit ]

The city centre is quite compact, so walking is often the best way to explore the city.

Regular tram services cover much of the city; they are supplemented by buses. On most sections trams have service intervals of at least every 10 minutes during daytime, becoming less frequent in the evenings. Night buses are available throughout the night after midnight; these run once or twice every hour and meet at the very heart of the city centre ( Anger ) or depart from the main station (within walking distance from Anger ).

Info about public transport (in German language)

See [ edit ]

Much of Erfurt's charm is found in its narrow streets, many of which are pedestrianized, with their beautiful old houses, green areas and little bridges across the Gera river and the Stadtpark and the Nordpark on different sides of the city center.

In the tourist office you can buy a small guidebook in one of several languages that leads you through the city along the main sights.

Jewish heritage [ edit ]

The history of Jews in Erfurt is not a continuous and not always a happy one, but they did leave a mark on the city and there is Jewish life once more in Erfurt today. The first Jewish congregation (with a synagogue dating to around 1094 in its oldest parts) was driven out due to a pogrom caused by slanderous rumours that local Jews were in some way responsible for the Black Death that hit Erfurt in 1349. However, by 1354, a congregation had established itself again in Erfurt and would continue to thrive until the Erfurt city council decided to expel the Jews in 1453/4. During the 19th century, the Jewish congregation of Erfurt grew and thrived once more and by 1932 it had 1290 members. Unfortunately few survived the Nazi era and most that did, fled Germany. Still, Erfurt retained the only Jewish congregation in the entire GDR and since the collapse of the Soviet Union, it is growing once more, in part thanks to immigration from former Soviet Republics. During the 1349 pogrom, a wealthy Jew hid a treasure of considerable monetary and incalculable historic value in the cellar of a building near the Old Synagogue. He did not survive the pogrom and thus the treasure was only rediscovered by chance in 1998. It has since been exhibited in several places, including New York City, London and Tel Aviv before returning to Erfurt. It is now exhibited in the Old Synagogue museum. Since 2023 the Old Synagogue, Mikveh and Stone House were listed as a world heritage site named the Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt .

Do [ edit ]

• 50.97843 11.02977 4 City tour , Benediktsplatz 1 . Join a historical city tour organised by the Tourist Information to have better and entertaining insight into the long lasting history of the town. ( updated Aug 2017 )
• 50.979 11.03075 5 Relax . Right at the Wenigemarkt or behind the Krämerbrücke beside the river you can have a beautiful look at the old houses standing on the 'bridge'. ( updated Aug 2017 )

Buy [ edit ]

Shops on the Krämerbrücke offer unique crafts and souvenirs. Around the city centre, along the street Anger, Bahnhofstraße and all the way to the Fischmarkt and Domplatz along Schlösserstraße and Marktstraße you can find almost every apparel shop a European heart desires, from H&M over Mango to Zara, Esprit, C&A and many, many more!

There are also a few shopping malls and other shopping opportunities spread over the whole city:

• 51.00845 10.99358 2 Thüringen-Park , Nordhäuser Straße 73 t ( tram 1 and 3 direction Europaplatz ). M-Sa 10:00-20:00 . Shopping centre approx. 20 min outside the city centre. Shop for apparel, groceries, electronics and more. Post office, drug store and Sparkasse (a German bank) also inside. Special events happen around holidays or around special themes (e.g. fashion, sport etc.)  
• 50.9711 11.0592 3 TEC (Thüringer Einkaufszentrum) , Hermsdorfer Str. 4 ( Bus 51, 59 or 155 from main station, direction Niedernissa ). Shopping mall 10 minutes outside the city centre. Shop here for groceries or electronics. Only a few apparel shops are here. The several shops open at different times, have a look at the website for details!  

Be aware: most shops (besides most grocery stores) are only open until 8pm. Sundays all shops and stores are closed! (Exemption: a few Sundays each year are open for sale)

Eat [ edit ]

The Thüringer Bratwurst (famous grilled sausage) comes from Erfurt, and the city has numerous stalls selling this world-famous delicacy. Don't miss out on trying one or more or sampling the differences.

Budget [ edit ]

• 50.973621 11.036274 1 Grillteufel , Bahnhofstraße 11 . Here you get the original grilled Thuringia sausage. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.976667 11.037559 2 Pizzeria Adem , Trommsdorffstraße 3 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.978223 11.033814 3 Ibras Bistro , Meienbergstraße 7 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.978213 11.032943 4 Siyar Grill , Meienbergstraße 13 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.977915 11.026916 5 Kurdischer Döner , Marktstraße 46 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.981708 11.032227 6 Uralskie Pelmeni , Johannesstraße 35 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.976191 11.028059 7 Xuan Xuan , Paulstraße 13/14 . ( updated Sep 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 50.97936 11.02864 8 Christoffel , Michaelisstraße 41 , ☏ +49 361 26 26 943 , [email protected] . 11:00-22:00 . Old school German cuisine in medieval setting. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.978368 11.03257 9 Zum Wenigemarkt 13 , Wenigemarkt 13 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.977292 11.026552 10 Kromer's Restaurant & Gewölbekeller , Kleine Arche 4 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.977294 11.02505 11 Wirtshaus am Dom , Dompl. 12 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.974673 11.026171 12 Pier 37 - Das Restaurant , Lange Brücke 37A . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.978686 11.029814 13 Haus zum Naumburgischen Keller , Michaelisstraße 49 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 50.979363 11.028701 14 Wirtshaus Christoffel , Michaelisstraße 41 . ( updated Sep 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 50.979126 11.033748 15 Clara - Restaurant im Kaisersaal , Futterstraße 15/16 . ( updated Sep 2022 )

Sweet [ edit ]

• 50.97759 11.02571 16 San Remo , Marktstraße 21 . Supposedly an excellent ice cream shop.  

Drink [ edit ]

• 50.97829 11.03153 1 Übersee , Kürschnergasse 8 ( near Wenigemarkt ). Nice cafe and bar with the opportunity to sit outside and have a nice look at the Gera river. Every day they offer a different special.  
• 50.97904 11.02922 2 Hemmingway , Michaelisstraße 45 .  

Dance [ edit ]

Erfurt has numerous small bars in the city center. When looking for a nice bar to have a drink or two don't miss taking a look at the Michaelisstraße near Fischmarkt where you can find numerous bars that offer a variety of drinks and snacks. Of course most of the cafes and restaurants mentioned in the "eat and drink" section also offer alcoholic beverages and are open until late.

If you intend to go clubbing or dancing, Erfurt can also offer some clubs, most of them are open on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

• 50.97341 11.03783 3 Musikpark , Willi-Brandt-Platz 1 ( opposite of the main station ). Black, House and Rock music. Every Thursday: Ladies World with free entrance until midnight and all you can drink for €6. Every Friday: Night of the Stars with special drinks. Saturdays: varying themes.  
• 50.97836 11.02697 4 Engelsburg ( E-Burg Studentenzentrum ), Allerheiligenstraße 20/21 ( between Fischmarkt and Domplatz ). Varying program and events, regular: Fightclub (different music styles). More alternative and rock music.  
• 50.9715 11.02465 5 Presseklub , Dalbergsweg 1 ( near the city centre ). Cocktail lounges, salsa parties and 1970s/1980s/pop events on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.  
• 50.97709 11.03478 6 Cosmopolar - unique music lounge , Anger 66 ( right at the Anger (central square), in the big Old Post building ). pop, electronic, house, black. Varying events on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  

Sleep [ edit ]

For budget travellers Erfurt offers a few hostels and low budget hotels or pensions.

• 50.96771 11.02575 1 re4 Hostel , Puschkinstr. 21 ( near the main station ). €13-20 .  
• 50.97118 11.02251 2 Opera Hostel , Walkmühlstraße 13 ( near main station and old opera house ). €13-45 .  
• 50.97561 11.01896 3 Dorint Hotel am Dom Erfurt ( Grand Hotel Erfurt ), Theaterplatz 2 , ☏ +49 361 64450 , [email protected] . Modern architecture and good atmosphere. from €99 per room/night . ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 50.9789 11.0361 4 Radisson Blu Hotel, Erfurt , Juri-Gagarin-Ring 127 ( about 1 km from Erfurt Central Station ), ☏ +49 361 55 10 0 , [email protected] . €69 . ( updated Aug 2016 )

Go next [ edit ]

• By train, Weimar is only a quarter of an hour away.
• Eisenach is a 25-to-30-minute train-ride from Erfurt.
• Jena is half an hour by train.
• Leipzig is 45 minutes by high-speed train.
• Wander around on near-by Thuringian Forest, on which Thuringia called the "green heart of Germany".
• Halle about 35 minutes away and has some great things to see. The largest city in Saxony-Anhalt is the birthplace of Handel and has a few castles.

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Erfurt (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Erfurt (Germany)

A city with more than 1,200 years of history, Erfurt is the capital of the Free State of Thuringia and has one of Germany’s most complete Medieval centres.

Here, St Mary’s Cathedral shines for its Romanesque and Gothic art, and the Krämerbrücke is a bridge traced by quaint timber-framed merchants’ houses.

It was in Erfurt that Martin Luther became a monk at the Augustinian Monastery, and at the end of the 18th century the city was at the forefront of the Enlightenment, frequented by cultural heavyweights like Goethe, Schiller and Wilhelm von Humboldt.

One of Europe’s oldest intact synagogues is also in Erfurt, along with a complete Baroque fortress, charming squares and moving memorials to the days of the GDR and Holocaust.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Erfurt :

1. Krämerbrücke (Merchants’ Bridge)

An enchanting slice of Medieval history, the Krämerbrücke is a bridge lined with half-timbered houses crossing a branch of the River Gera.

At 79 metres, it’s the longest Medieval bridge in Europe to have inhabited houses.

These quaint old merchants’ houses are now galleries, cafes, antiques shops, ateliers, wine merchants, delicatessens and boutiques, while the upper floors are apartments.

The first mention of the bridge is from the 1100s, and following seven different fires in the 12th and 13th centuries it was rebuilt with limestone and sandstone in 1325. This crossing was part of Europe’s medieval trade network, the Via Regia, which accounts for its long association with merchants.

2. Erfurt Cathedral

On the brow of a hill stands Erfurt’s magnificent Gothic cathedral, built mostly during the 1300s and 1400s.

There has been a religious building in this place since 742 when St Boniface founded a church.

The cathedral is unbelievably rich with Medieval art, starting with the 18-metre tracery windows in the high choir, which are almost all original and were fitted between 1370 and 1420. The oak stalls in the choir are also exceptional, carved in the 1360s, and with 89 seats in twin 17.5-metre rows.

There’s a stucco retable depicting the Virgin and Child from 1160 and the astonishing Wolfram candelabra from dating to around the same time.

The cathedral’s middle tower also holds the Maria Gloriosa, the world’s largest free-swinging Medieval bell, cast in 1497 and weighing 11.45 tons.

3. Domplatz

The largest square in the city is the grand 3.5-hectare plaza below the cathedral.

In the morning from Monday to Saturday there’s a market selling fruit and vegetables, sausages, eggs, honey, cheese and exotic delicacies: The square’s market tradition could be as old as the 8th or 9th century.

Domplatz is also the main location for Erfurt’s excellent Christmas market in December.

There are also a couple monuments catching the eye: The Erthal-Obelisk went up in 1777 to commemorate the first visit by the new Archbishop-Elector Friedrich Karl Joseph von Erthal and was mostly funded by Erfurt’s citizens.

Crowned with a statue of the Roman Goddess, the Minervabrunnen from 1784 is Erfurt’s oldest surviving fountain and the last of the city’s original 55 public drinking fountains.

4. Zitadelle Petersberg

Taking up 12 hectares right on the Petersberg hill in the centre of Erfurt is the largest and best preserved Baroque city fortress in Central Europe.

There are eight bastions, linked by a two-kilometre parapet wall which reaches heights of 23 metres and has wonderful vistas of the city.

Under these walls are counter mines, a system of tunnels to prevent mines made by attackers during sieges: You can go underground to see them on tours organised by the tourist office.

The citadel was founded in 1665 by the Archbishop-Elector of Mainz and was later used by the Prussian Empire.

After Reunification the site was turned into a tourist attraction, while its buildings belong to government offices, cultural amenities and private apartments.

5. Augustinerkloster

A prime stop on Germany’s Luther trail, this Augustinian monastery is where Martin Luther became a monk and stayed between 1505 and 1511. Luther returned many times, including in 1521 when he gave a sermon here against the theology of the Catholic church.

You can visit a reconstruction of Luther’s cell and find out more about his relationship with Erfurt at the monastery’s exhibition.

The complex itself dates to the end of the 13th century, and much of the architecture was completed in the first decades of the 14th century.

6. Fischmarkt

West of Krämerbrücke is Fischmarkt, which was the social centre of the city in the Middle Ages.

The first town hall was built here in 1275 and its current Neo-Gothic building from 1875 is on the exact same plot.

Poke your head inside to see the fabulous murals recording moments from Thuringian history and scenes from the life of Martin Luther.

In front is the Römer, a monument from 1591 of a Roman soldier holding the city’s flag in his right hand.

On the borders of the square are a number of gorgeous Renaissance houses built by Erfurt’s prosperous Burghers: On the north side Haus zum Breiten Herd has a sumptuous polychrome facade designed by the Brabantic master Frans Floris, while on the west side you can’t ignore Haus zum Roten Ochsen, which has a frieze on the ground floor depicting the muses.

Once dominated by a fortress, this 265-metre hill to the southwest of Erfurt became a public park in the 1880s and has been expanded since then.

In the time of the GDR the garden was developed for the International Gardening Exhibition in 1961. The architecture and landscaping for the project by Reinhold Lingner is celebrated today, and since Reunification the park has been turned into one of Germany’s favourite horticultural attractions.

The largest ornamental flowerbed in the country is here, boasting 150,000 flowers in spring.

There’s also a rose garden with 450 different varieties, as well as a Japanese garden and greenhouses for butterflies, cactuses, tropical flora and 300 species of orchids.

There are also two towers surviving from the fortress, dating to the 16th century, and one of these has a viewing platform 21 metres above the park.

8. Old Synagogue

Going back as far as the 1000s, Erfurt’s Old Synagogue could be the best preserved Medieval synagogue in Europe.

Most of the architecture is from the 13th century, but its history as a place of worship ends abruptly in 1349 when Erfurt’s Jewish community was massacred and expelled from the city.

From that time on it was used as a warehouse.

And because its history had been forgotten by the 20th century this vital piece of Jewish heritage was left untouched during the Nazi regime.

In 2009 the Old Synagogue opened as a museum, enriched with artefacts found around Erfurt during excavations.

There’s a 13th-century Mikveh (ritual bath), facsimiles of Medieval religious manuscripts, as well as the Erfurt Treasure.

This hoard of coins, ingots and jewellery was discovered in the wall of a Medieval house in 1998 and is believed to date from the time of the massacre.

9. Angermuseum

Erfurt’s art museum is in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings, a Baroque early 18th-century facility for packing and weighing at the central Anger square.

The museum has an extensive reserve of fine arts and applied arts from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Seek out the sacred art from the second half of the 14th century, most of all the sandstone sculptures and four panels from the altar at the Augustinerkloster.

There are also later Renaissance altar paintings believed to have been produced by Lucas Cranach the Elder or his workshop.

Also make time for Erich Heckel’s stunning Expressionist mural, and the porcelain collection, presenting Thuringian figurines, tableware, sculptures and reliefs from the 1700s to the 1900s.

10. Wenigemarkt

At the eastern end of the Krämerbrücke is another cute square, which has roughly the same proportions as Fischmarkt on the opposite bank of the Gera.

The Ägidienkirche on the north side of the square is the eastern bridgehead for the Krämerbrücke and in its current form dates to around the 16th century.

In good weather the square is taken up by bar and restaurant seating, and at Christmas Wenigemarkt becomes a small village of stalls illuminated by fairy lights.

On the southeast side of the square is a fountain, Raufende Knaben (scuffling boys) designed by Madeburg sculptor Heinrich Apel in the mid-1970s.

11. Predigerkirche

If you still have an appetite for religious architecture the Predigerkirche (Preacher’s Church) will keep you fascinated for an hour or so.

This former monastery church was founded in the 1200s and upgraded in the Late Gothic style in the 1300s and 1400s.

In 1989 the Predigerkirche was Erfurt’s meeting place for protesters during the Peaceful Revolution: In October of that year one New Forum meeting in the church drew up to 4,000 participants.

Allow some time to view the many ledger stones members of Erfurt’s noble families, unearthed during restoration works in the 1960s and dating to between the 1300s and 1700s.

An interesting piece of trivia is that Johannes Bach, great uncle of composer Johann Sebastian Bach, was organist at the Predigerkirche from 1636-1673.

12. Erinnerungsort Topf & Söhne

The company J. A. Topf und Söhne became insolvent in 1994, and in 2011 this memorial was opened at its headquarters.

During the war the company had supplied the ovens and ventilation equipment for the gas chambers at Auschwitz.

In that sense this site is unique, because it is the only place where the complicity of private companies in the Holocaust has been remembered.

There’s an exhibition on the top floor of the building and this has some interesting items like telegrams showing direct communication with SS officials and documents confirming orders and delivery of the equipment.

Special attention is paid to the experience of Sonderkommandos, the work units made up of prisoners at death camps.

On the level below is a conference room where videos are shown and where people can exchange their thoughts about the memorial.

13. Gedenk- und Bildungsstätte Andreasstraße

On Andreasstraße there’s a former detention centre run by the Stasi in the days of the GDR. More than 5,000 political opponents were imprisoned here.

In December 2013 an exhibition established here on three floors, with restored prison cells, archive photos and video in which firsthand witnesses give accounts of the detention centre as well as the events of 4 December 1989. On that day protesters occupied the Stasi’s Erfurt district administration on Andreasstraße, and it was a symbolic moment as it was the first time that a Stasi facility had been taken over during the Peaceful Revolution.

14. Thüringer Zoopark Erfurt

Always an option if you’re travelling to Erfurt with kids, Erfurt’s zoo has almost 350 different animal species and prides itself in its big African mammals.

There are lions, giraffes and white rhinoceroses, while in 2014 the zoo opened a massive new habitat for African elephants.

You can observe them indoors and outside, in an environment landscaped with rocks and pools.

Another expansive habitat is Afrika-Savanne, where zebras, ostriches, impalas and antelopes occupy the same enclosure.

There are also a variety of monkeys, reptiles, kangaroos, emus, an open space for bison and two farm areas for sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys and horses.

Of the total 63 hectares, 15 are reserved for lawns and woodland, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot for a picnic.

15. Thüringer Bratwurst

The local sausage in Erfurt has Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) under EU Law.

A Thüringer Bratwurst is thin, up to 20 centimetres long, and has a famously spicy flavour.

The blend of pork and beef is seasoned with garlic, pepper, marjoram, caraway, and occasionally coriander and nutmeg.

By law, more than half of the sausage’s ingredients must have been produced in Thuringia.

The sausage will be cooked over charcoal and served in a round roll so that the ends of the sausage poke out from each side.

The condiment of choice in Erfurt is mustard by the local Born brand, which has been in business for almost 200 years.

15 Best Things to Do in Erfurt (Germany):

• Krämerbrücke (Merchants' Bridge)
• Erfurt Cathedral
• Zitadelle Petersberg
• Augustinerkloster
• Old Synagogue
• Angermuseum
• Wenigemarkt
• Predigerkirche
• Erinnerungsort Topf & Söhne
• Gedenk- und Bildungsstätte Andreasstraße
• Thüringer Zoopark Erfurt
• Thüringer Bratwurst

Home » Destinations » Europe » Germany » 15 Fantastic Things to Do in Erfurt, Germany (+ Our Tips)

15 Fantastic Things to Do in Erfurt, Germany (+ Our Tips)

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Here Are Some Great Things To Do In Erfurt, Germany!

Looking to add more beautiful places in Germany to your list? Then you should definitely check out Erfurt, Germany!

From beautiful attractions like the Erfurt Cathedral and the Krämerbrücke to exploring Egapark, there is plenty to do, see, and eat!

We were lucky enough to discover Erfurt recently on the way to the south of Germany. We spent a night in the medieval city – and we are SO glad we did.

Because it’s loaded with history, it’s now become one of Eric’s favourite German cities – seriously.

That said, we wanted to check out the things to do as well as things to eat. So, this post is loaded with attractions as well as great Erfurt cafes and Erfurt restaurants to try when you go! Just grab this post and an Erfurt city map – let’s get exploring!

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Erfurt

Now that we have covered the basics about Erfurt, here’s a list of things that you can do.

Keep in mind, this list includes most of the major attractions with the exception of the Zoo because we don’t usually promote them.

That said, if you’re travelling with kids, the Thuringian Zoo Park is highly rated and located quite north of the city centre.

Walk the Krämerbrücke

You will not visit Erfurt and miss the Krämerbrücke. You simply cannot!

Also known as the “Merchant’s Bridge”, the Krämerbrücke is a gorgeous medieval-era stone arch bridge that was originally built back in 1325.

In fact, the stone bridge walkway was built first – the wood timber houses were done in the 1480s!

Fun Fact: The bridge is one of the very few remaining medieval bridges with dwellings on it that still stands to this day!

If you walk beside the bridge, you can actually go under it to reach the exterior sides – and you’ll be able to snap some great photos of the side of the bridge next to the river.

If you walk over the bridge which spans the “Breitstrom” (a part of the Gera River), you’ll be greeted by numerous shops, galleries, or cafes that inhabit the colourful houses today.

It’s also a good way to get between the public squares at each end – each with their own cafes, restaurants, and shops, too.

Walking the bridge is like being transported in time – honestly. While we were exploring, we actually popped into a small cafe called Mundlandung.

We had coffees and a cake which were great.

Eric got a sandwich which was okay, but better stick to sweets because Lisa’s cake was absolutely delicious.

The best part was the window view from our table – people seemed a little jealous we were perched up in the bridge!

Another place you can check out on the bridge is the Haus der Stiftungen. This was a small museum (in all German) that is dedicated to telling the story of the bridge.

It’s neat to see but don’t spend all day there – there’s more waiting for you!

If you approach the bridge from Fischmarkt, you’ll find lots of great things at the other end of the bridge.

Namely – you’ll see a church tower which you can climb (mentioned further down) and you’ll also see ice cream!

Yes, if you’re an ice cream fan you must try some at Goldhelm Eiskrämer . They are located at Krämerbrücke 15, 99084 Erfurt but you’ll likely see a line up if the weather is nice out!

Address of the Bridge: Krämerbrücke, 99084 Erfurt

Wander Fischmarkt

One of the places that you absolutely have to check out – and likely will by accident anyway – is Fischmarkt. This central square is known to be the main square in all of Erfurt.

Always a central meeting place with the town hall right there, the square today is a hustle and bustle of activity – yet still really lovely to hang out in.

The buildings surrounding the square are gorgeous and built in a Renaissance-style.

The town hall (Rathaus) was built in the 1880s in Neo-Gothic, but the original town hall was said to have stood in the location around 1275!

Aside from a transport hub for the trams, you’ll also find “Der Römer” standing in the middle of the square.

A symbol of independence in the city of Erfurt, this statue – similar to Bremen’s Roland – was put up by the town people in 1591.

These days, there are loads of cafes and restaurants around the edges of the square so you can sit and have a nice coffee, snack, or full meal.

We really liked the square because it never got too busy so you got to enjoy a historic centre without loads and loads of people around.

Just watch where you are standing when you snap those pretty photos because the tram will come through!

Address: Fischmarktplatz, Erfurt

Visit The Erfurt Dom (Cathedral)

Standing high above the city from the top of Domberg Hill you’ll find one of the top sights in Erfurt: the Erfurt Cathedral.

Also known as the St. Mary’s Cathedral, this unique cathedral is the oldest and largest church in all of Erfurt.

The current building has roots dating from the 12th century but the site has held religious buildings since before 742!

You can find the cathedral right beside St. Severus’ Church (mentioned right below) and there are usually a grand set of steps to walk up between them as you explore the area.

When we visited Erfurt, there was a performance happening so the stage and seating blocked the stairs but it was still great to see.

We walked from the side of the square (also called Domplatz) and entered the cathedral. Admission is free – and the inside is quite grand.

The cathedral has both Romanesque and Gothic elements which make it beautiful.

Fun Fact: The Cathedral is home to “Gloriosa” – the largest medieval bell in the world! You can actually book a guided tour up the central tower to see the bell.

You can learn more about visiting the Cathedral here .

Besides the cathedral, Domplatz is a very large square where you can get a good view of the citadel (mentioned below).

There are also lots of restaurants or cafes lining the square so you can also relax here in the shadow of the grand cathedral!

Address: Domstufen 1, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Check Out The Churches

If you didn’t already know, Erfurt is home to A LOT of churches, monasteries, places of worship, etc. In fact, the city centre alone has over 20 churches!

These churches dot the skyline with their towers and make for great photos from the high vantage points.

We were lucky enough to check out a handful of the churches for the architecture. There are mostly in Gothic style but you’ll also find Romanesque and more!

You might pass the ruins of the Barfüßerkirche – we did and it was fascinating to see! Below are a few we explored deeper:

Severikirche

Known as St. Severus’ Church in English, the Severikirche stands right beside the Erfurt Cathedral atop Domberg Hill.

Its three spires are gorgeous – and the second-largest church in Erfurt also makes a statement having been built around 1300.

Address: Severihof 2, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Predigerkirche

Constructed back in the 13th century, the Predigerkirche is a stone Gothic monastery church.

Located in the city centre, we walked by accidentally and actually stopped to check out its interior. Turns out it’s the main Protestant church of Erfurt!

We wandered inside and honestly it was pretty impressive considering it’s one of the “regular” churches in the city.

The interior was quiet and very simple compared to other wildly-decorated church interiors we had recently seen!

Address: Predigerstraße 4, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Protestant Augustinian Monastery Erfurt

Dating back to 1277, St. Augustine’s Monastery is full of significant history. Martin Luther actually lived there from 1505 to 1511 when he was studying to be a monk.

These days, the large complex is still an active church as well as a conference centre and a lovely hotel you can stay at .

We walked by and stayed very, very close to it at our accommodation just north of the heart of the city centre.

Address: Augustinerstraße 10, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Climb the Ägidienkirche Tower

One of the best things to do in Erfurt – and one of our personal favourites – was to climb the Ägidienkirche Tower and enjoy the amazing views!

The tower itself is easy to find – just head for the end of the Krämerbrücke and you’ll see it towering up.

The tricky part for us was the opening times. You enter below through the large wooden door which is in the covered part of the bridge (and under the actual Ägidienkirche – a functional church in the building above the road).

When we arrived for opening at 11:00 am, the door was closed. We waited for over 30 minutes before finally giving up and agreeing to come back later.

This is a shame because we even saw a tour group basically change their plans in real-time because it wasn’t open (when it clearly said it would be – Lisa is German so we didn’t misread).

Luckily, we came back in the afternoon and the door was open. We were asked to give a small donation to enter, and up we went climbing the old wooden stairs.

It’s pretty steep so if you have mobility issues it might not be for you.

That said, views around the whole tower of the city below are incredible. The photos we got speak for themselves – and it really gives you a unique perspective of the city.

The best part was that there was only one small group up there – then we had the whole lookout for ourselves!

So, we’d say definitely do it – but watch out because it might not be open when it says it should be.

We aren’t sure if this is a staffing issue – we’d read other Google reviews that said (another time) the opening time wasn’t observed – so plan ahead if you can.

Address: Wenigemarkt 4, 99084 Erfurt, Germany (at the end of the Krämerbrücke)

Explore the Petersberg Citadel

If you haven’t had enough of the great views all over Erfurt, then head to the top of Petersberg Hill for another! At the top, you’ll be greeted by an imposing fortress – Petersberg Citadel!

Built starting around 1665 and for the next few decades, this Baroque fortress is actually one of the best-preserved town fortresses in all of Europe!

These days, you can wander the grounds (more than 85 acres) that are surrounded by thick stone walls running for over two kilometres.

There are guided tours of the confusing lower passageways through the system of tunnels.

When we visited, it was under extensive renovation for the Flower Show in 2021 so there was not that much to see. That said, we could still wander about, check out a few places, and get great views of the city below.

There’s also an elevated glass cafe – Glashütte Petersberg – where you can grab a drink or bite to eat overlooking the city!

If you want to visit the Citadel, learn more, and/or book a tour, you can check out this website . (Public tours are only in German – English would have to be booked in advance!)

Address: Petersberg 3, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Check Out The Alte Synagoge

Known as the “Old Synagogue”, this is quite the historic site in Erfurt. In fact, as one of the few remaining medieval synagogues in Europe, it’s a pretty significant place to check out!

Having been originally built in the Middle Ages (as old as the 11th century) in the heart of Erfurt’s old town, much of it was later built around the end of the 1200s.

The Synagogue today includes many of the original features like the thick outer walls and the Gothic Rose window.

You can pop inside for a fee to explore the extensive museum exhibit highlighting elements of the synagogue’s past as well as local Jewish history.

You’ll also find the Erfurt Treasure – a hidden stash of coins and other items found in 1998!

We didn’t end up going inside because we ran out of time but we will be returning and will visit next time! If you plan on visiting the Old Synagogue in Erfurt, you can learn more here .

Address: Waagegasse 8, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Walk Through Egapark

If you want to take a moment to relax while in Erfurt, you should definitely head to Egapark. This massive park – covering almost 90 acres – is one of the largest parks in Germany.

It also remains one of the few remaining gardens set up during the time of East German rule.

The site is of historical significance because an old fortress – Cyriaksburg Castle – rested atop the hill. The park itself was originally opened in 1961 for the First International Horticultural Exhibition (in Soviet Countries) but has since grown and changed over the years.

One feature that remains unchanged is the 6,000 square metre flower bed that centres the park and draws visitors each year.

The grounds are beautiful and have many old buildings like pavilions, glasshouses (for cacti and butterflies) as well as curated rose and Japanese gardens.

As if that wasn’t enough, there are activities for kids and you’ll also find the German Horticultural Museum, which highlights the complex and interesting history of the park!

If you plan to visit Egapark, you can check out the official website here (in German) for fees and opening hours.

Address: Gothaer Str. 38, 99094 Erfurt, Germany

Eat A Thuringia Bratwurst

If you want to sink your teeth into some local cuisine, then you have to try out the Thuringia Bratwurst.

There are many bratwursts (sausages) connected to different cities or parts of Germany – and Erfurt is no different.

The Thuringia Bratwurst is quite long, grilled, and generally eaten in a small roll with mustard.

It’s basically the traditional German equivalent of “fast food” – like how you’d grab a burger or burrito on the go in North America.

We grabbed ours from a small stand near the river where the shopping area in the newer town meets the Old Town. That said, you can find it sold around the city in small stalls or in restaurants.

Note: Lisa thinks the restaurant version is weird because it’s supposed to be a “street food”! In any case, it was really, really good!

Take Photos Of The KiKa  TV Characters

If you are wandering around Erfurt, you might notice a few “statues” that seem a little odd. If you’re a visitor from elsewhere, you’ll be confused and amused – but if you’re German, there’s a good chance you’ll recognize a bunch of them!

Erfurt is home to KiKa – a public television channel for kids. So, it’s only fitting that scattered around the city are recognizable characters from various kid’s shows!

In total, there are 7 characters around the city from Die Maus und Der Elefant to the hilarious looking “Bernd das Brot” (literally, Bernard the Bread).

You can find them scattered around the city – usually in public squares or open spaces so see if you can find all of them!

Explore The Naturkundemuseum

Called the “Natural History Museum of Erfurt”, this museum about the natural world packs a punch! Located down a small street very close to Domplatz, you might miss it if you aren’t looking for it!

Inside, there are exhibits about the natural history of the local area – looking at the history of plant life and geology of the region.

They also hold special exhibits – and have other permanent ones that showcase paleontology, mineralogy, and more!

When we visited, there was a MASSIVE group of what looked like school kids having their lunch in the courtyard. We think they were having a good time visiting the museum!

If you want to check it out, you can learn more about the Museum here .

Address: Große Arche 14, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Visit The Kunsthalle Erfurt

The “Art Gallery of Erfurt” is located right on the edge of Fischmarktplatz facing the Rathaus. This gorgeous Renaissance building called “Haus zum Roten Ochsen” or “House of the Red Ox” is the entrance to the gallery.

Inside, you’ll find permanent and rotating exhibits surrounding the topic of modern and contemporary visual art. For example, they have a recurring exhibit in black and white photos from 1945-2000 in West Germany!

If you want to plan a visit, you can find more information about the Erfurt Kunsthalle here .

Address: Fischmarkt 7, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Visit the Andreasstraße Memorial and Educational Site

Should you be venturing to Germany (and Erfurt) to learn about the past, this museum is a good place to do that.

The “Stasi Museum” as it’s called, is housed in a former prison used to hold political prisoners in East Germany.

Today, the site is both a memorial and museum with the purpose of educating about and acknowledging the oppressive atrocities that occurred there.

You’ll find exhibits on the lived experiences of prisoners, what the Stasi was really up to, the Peaceful Revolution, and more.

Basically, if you want to learn about “The Stasi” – or the secret police in East Germany during the Cold War period – this is a great place to check out.

It’s located very close to Domplatz so you can take Tram 3, 4, or 6 to get close enough to walk. You can learn more about the museum here .

Address: Andreasstraße 37a, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Check Out The Angermuseum

As you pass through the Old Town, you’ll notice a beautiful building at a street corner. Officially opened in 1886, this is the Angermuseum – a place that documents Erfurt’s past! The building faces Anger Square – hence the name.

The building once held the public weighing scales but has since been converted into a museum showcasing shields, medieval paintings, and special exhibits from time to time.

Some people think it’s worth visiting while others see it as a little bit underwhelming.

In any case, the Baroque building is lovely to photograph – and you MIGHT find a KiKa character nearby! You can learn more about the Angermuseum here .

Address: Anger 18, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Check Out The Museum für Thüringer Volkskunde

Called the “Museum of Thuringian Folklore” in English, this small museum is dedicated to preserving and retelling various parts of Thuringia history told through objects.

As one of the largest Folklore Museums in the country, inside you’ll find costumes, dolls, furniture, and a glimpse of what life was like in Thuringia over the past 200 years!

If this kind of thing sparks your interest, you can learn more about visiting here .

Address: Juri-Gagarin-Ring 140A, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Where To Eat In Erfurt: Our Tips

While we were in Erfurt, there were a few places that we went for coffee breaks, breakfast, and scouted out for a hearty German meal.

Having covered ice cream, a café and Thuringia sausage above already, you’ll find a list of other great cafes and food spots below.

Café Füchsen

We went to Café Füchsen for breakfast our only morning and it met and exceeded expectations.

The place is this small, cozy spot beside a green park just north of the Krämerbrücke (and it was SO close to our accommodation).

We actually sat outside under a large covered area. Even with the rain, it was a lovely morning. We got coffees and then Lisa had the cheese plate breakfast while Eric had the eggs with prosciutto.

Everything comes with German bread rolls. Let’s just say we were absolutely stuffed before we headed out to explore.

We’d highly recommend – but make a reservation if it’s the weekend or you’re more than two people because we got lucky to find a spot! You can check out their Facebook Page here .

Address Café Füchsen: Hütergasse 13, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Kurhaus Simone

One of the last stops before we got on the train was to find a coffee or iced coffee (it was very hot that day). Luckily, at the far end of the Krämerbrücke on Wenigemarkt (an open square) we found Kurhaus Simone .

Sitting outside at a little table for two, we had the BEST spot to people watch and take in the city views of the tower.

Lisa had this weird cold drink called Caffè Warschau with espresso and lemon bitters (she loved it) while Eric had a tall iced coffee. Both were just perfect. The place is very stylish, too!

Address Kurhaus Simone: Wenigemarkt 21, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Wirtshaus Christoffel and Gasthaus Feuerkugel

If you are looking for a hearty German dinner (serving a variety of foods from different regions), there are two classic “Wirtshaus” to check out in Erfurt: Wirtshaus Christoffel and Gasthaus Feuerkugel . These places are very popular – but for good reason.

They both offer outdoor seating but also have loads of room inside. Having done the research (and even checking out the menus), we didn’t end up going to either one because we wanted to save one of our big German meals for when we were in Bayreuth (located in Bavaria close to where Lisa grew up!).

Both of these places are located in the old town on the same street, so have a look at both and let us know how it is!

The address for Gasthaus Feuerkugel: Michaelisstraße 3-4, 99084 Erfurt, Germany and the address for Wirtshaus Christoffel: Michaelisstraße 41, 99084 Erfurt, Germany .

Augustiner an der Krämerbrücke Erfurt

Finally, if you are looking to have a beer at a quintessential German beer market, check out Augustiner an der Krämerbrücke Erfurt . We walked by a number of times just north of the Krämerbrücke.

There is a large outdoor patio area for enjoying beverages – but the old wood timbered house has these gorgeous balcony tables that overlook the river.

It looked like they had to be reserved so we didn’t go – but we will next time!

Address Augustiner Erfurt: Horngasse 3/4, 99084 Erfurt, Germany

Things To Know When Visiting Erfurt, Germany

Before you head off to check out Erfurt, there are a few things that you might want to consider. While the city is visitor-friendly and easy to get around, planning ahead is never a bad idea!

From how to get to Erfurt to how to get around and where to stay in Erfurt, here are some important topics for you to keep in mind as you plan your trip!

Oh, and if you want to see what Erfurt looks like – you can check out our Erfurt YouTube video to have a look!

General Information About Erfurt

Erfurt is a beautiful city physically located in the centre of Germany. It’s also the capital of the German state of Thuringia.

Erfurt has a long history – and its central location in Europe has made it important for centuries.

The city was situated on the Via Regia – which was a medieval trade route/network across much of modern Europe. It has the Gera River running through it.

The rich medieval and religious history shows in what is considered one of the best medieval centres in Germany. The preservation of the “Altstadt” – or Old Town – is like a time machine when you walk around.

Erfurt is also known for famous Germans like Martin Luther – who studied at the University of Erfurt in 1501 before joining the Augustine Monastery (noted below) in 1505.

Today, the population of Erfurt is over 200,000 – making it a smaller city but a city nonetheless!

How To Get To Erfurt

Erfurt is located in basically the middle of the country so there are a bunch of ways you can get there. Since Germany has great train travel, you can reach Erfurt easily from Leipzig, Frankfurt, or even Munich.

If you are driving and/or have a rental car, you can also get to Erfurt this way. There are plenty of downtown parking lots for easy storage and access to your car.

Getting Around In Erfurt

Once you are in Erfurt, the city centre is pretty flat so it’s easy to get around on foot. The train station is at the south end of the city centre so it is a quick 10/15 minute walk to the heart of the old town.

One of the only areas that is hilly is near the Citadel where you’ll climb a small hill and some steps to get up there.

As you walk around the city centre, you’ll notice lots of sets of tram tracks. The trams whiz through many parts of the city creating a network for you to get around if you so choose. There are also buses available to take.

Trams leave right from a platform beside Erfurt Train Station so you can arrive by train and connect to transit if you like. You can find the Erfurt Transit website here (in German).

You might also look into the Altstadt tour – a tram car-shaped vehicle that drives in the road – kind of like a caterpillar – and makes stops at the top attractions with a guide.

You can find information on this tour here . There is also a city tour where you ride the tracks on an actual “tram tour”. You can learn more about this here .

*These tours are regularly available in German but English seems possible if you book in advance/for a group. Might want to send a quick email to check if you’re visiting!

Read More: Don’t Forget Your Handy German Phrases

Where To Stay In Erfurt

If you end up staying overnight, Erfurt is a great city to sleep in. We ended up staying at Gästehaus in der Gotthardtstraße and honestly loved it.

The place is a very simple guesthouse style accommodation in a quiet neighbourhood just a short walk from the best attractions.

The place was easy to find, safe, cozy, and the host was lovely. We also liked having a free bottle of mineral water waiting in the room. There are a few parking spaces available should you need it – and breakfast locations are very close by!

>> Check here for Gästehaus in der Gotthardtstraße

If you’re looking for a hotel in Erfurt, you might check out Hotel Krämerbrücke Erfurt (located RIGHT beside the Krämerbrücke) or the Protestant Augustinian Monastery – which is actually a “place to visit” listed down below. Turns out, you can stay in this historic building, too!

If you want to stay in a place that is physically in the photo above, you might want to check out Mr. and Mrs. President , a highly-rated apartment in Erfurt located right overlooking Domplatz.

**Friendly Disclosure: We paid for our stay ourselves and were not told to include the accommodation in this article.

And there you have it – some of the best things to do in Erfurt, Germany! We had a great time exploring this colourful, historic city.

We’d honestly recommend a stop if you are travelling through the middle of Germany. Let us know if you end up there and how you like it!

As always, Happy Erfurt Waddlin’, -L&E

Related Articles

We write a lot about Germany – including detailed itineraries around Germany – so check out these other helpful Germany posts!

• Must-Knows for Travelling to Germany (For the First Time)
• Erfurt is Close to Beautiful Bamberg and Coburg
• Discover Great Attractions in Berlin
• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
• Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
• Go over our packing list

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EVE Tourist-Information in Erfurt

Stadtführung in Erfurt und Übernachtung für Erfurt. Altstadt, Petersberg, Straßenbahn, Pensionen, Hotels, Nachtwächter, Kinderführungen, Übernachtung in Erfurt (Übernachten in Hotel, Pension, Fewo). Tourist-Information. Tourismus. Ergänzt wird unser angebot durch einen Ticket-Service für bundesweite Veranstaltungen. Stadtführungen, Stadtführung, Übernachtung, Pension Altstadt, Altstadtführung

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Erfurt is a city located in the state of Thuringia, Germany. It is renowned for its historical attractions and interesting sights and activities. Erfurt is a great place to explore as it is full of interesting attractions, including the Kr‰Ûª_merbrÌøcke (Merchant's Bridge), the Anglican Church, Erfurt Cathedral, and the Erfurt Synagogue. It is also home to many museums such as the Thuringian State Museum and the Erfurt City Museum.

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Home » Europe » Germany » 2 Days in Erfurt Itinerary – How to explore Erfurt, Germany, in 2 Days

2 Days in Erfurt Itinerary – How to explore Erfurt, Germany, in 2 Days

While Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, might not be Germany’s best-kept secret, it’s undoubtedly less frequented than many of the country’s other major cities. Yet, a trip to this charming city is an experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

Find out how you can discover Erfurt in 2 days, what makes this city so special, and which things to do in Erfurt you should not miss.

We’ll take you on a fantastic 2-days in Erfurt itinerary to the most beautiful places in the city and some great tips from my friend Melissa, who lived here for a few years.

Author’s note: For full disclosure, I’d just like to briefly point out that we were invited to our weekend in Erfurt by Thueringen-entdecken.de as a winner of the 2022 Summer Blog Parade, but the article is in no way sponsored, and all opinions are my own.

What to find out in this post

• 1 Why visit Erfurt
• 2 Erfurt, Germany, Facts
• 3 Best Travel Time for Erfurt
• 4 How to get to Erfurt
• 5 How to get around Erfurt
• 6 Our comprehensive 2-Days in Erfurt Itinerary
• 7.1 The Kinderkanal figures
• 7.2 Erfurt Cathedral St. Marien
• 7.3 St. Severi Church
• 7.4 Domstufen – Cathedral steps
• 7.5 Cathedral Square
• 7.6 Petersberg Citadel
• 7.7 Gedenk- und Bildungsstätte Andreasstraße – Memorial & Educational Site
• 7.8 Rest of the day at leisure
• 8.1 Fischmarkt
• 8.2 Waagegasse
• 8.3 Old synagogue
• 8.4 Krämer Bridge
• 8.5 Teatrum Mundi
• 8.6 Goldhelm Ice Cream – Eiskrämer
• 8.7 Enjoy your ice cream at the Gera
• 8.8 St. Ägidien Church Tower
• 8.9 Wenigemarkt
• 9.1 EGA Park
• 9.2 Natural History Museum Erfurt
• 9.3 City Museum Erfurt – Haus zum Stockfisch
• 9.4 Augustinian monastery
• 9.5 Erfurt Christmas Market
• 10.1 Übersee
• 10.2 Goldhelm
• 10.3 Haus zum Naumburgischen Keller
• 10.4 Angus Döner
• 11.1 The best Hotel in Erfurt
• 11.2 The best budget accommodation
• 12 Is the Erfurt Card worth it
• 13.1 About the AuthorVicki

Why visit Erfurt

Erfurt is still a bit of a hidden gem in Germany. Its impressive medieval architecture and charming alleys attract travelers looking for authenticity and a connection to German history.

Unlike significant metropolises such as Berlin, Hamburg, or Munich, Erfurt offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere rarely found elsewhere in a big city.

The Krämerbrücke, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe, is just one of the many highlights of this city. Whether you want to explore the impressive churches and monasteries, stroll through the historic Old Town, or enjoy the local cuisine, Erfurt has something to offer each visitor.

ERFURT INFO BOX

Where to stay in Erfurt: Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior (Good, central hotel with breakfast directly at the train station) or Pension Gerber (Comfortable middle-class accommodation with a friendly atmosphere)

The most popular activities & tours in Erfurt

Guided Erfurt City Tour

Selfuided Scavenger Hunt through the Old town of Erfurt

Petersberg Citadel Guided Tour

Private E-Rickshaw Tour

Visit in EGA Park

Arrival: The easiest way is by car or Deutsche Bahn (the train company). It is even cheaper if you book your ticket in advance. If you need to book a flight, make sure to check well in advance and compare different options with Skyscanner

Transport on-site: By public transport and walking

Want to rent a car?  You can find great deals  on RentalCars .

Erfurt, Germany, Facts

• Capital of the Free State of Thuringia
• Largest city in Thuringia
• Less than 220,000 inhabitants
• Home of the German children’s channel (KiKa)
• It has probably already been inhabited in prehistoric times

Best Travel Time for Erfurt

Erfurt is a great destination all year round. However, the summer months and December during the Erfurt Christmas Market are particularly popular.

Other events that might be worthwhile are the Erfurt Old Town Spring in April, the Krämerbrücken Festival on the third weekend of July, or DomStufen Festspiele in midsummer.

How to get to Erfurt

As the state capital, Erfurt has a well-developed highway connection to other important cities in Germany.

If you travel by plane, you can fly to Erfurt Weimar Airport (just about 6 km/4 mi from the city center of Erfurt). Frankfurt am Main Airport is about three hours from Erfurt.

You also can arrive by bus or train. Otherwise, there are also many reasonable offers via long-distance buses and Flixbus.

How to get around Erfurt

The city center of Erfurt is relatively small, so you can quickly discover the most essential sights in Erfurt on foot.

If you are not good on foot, you also have the possibility to use public transport like bus and streetcar.

A single trip costs € 2.50. Alternatively, you can purchase a day ticket for € 6.20 (worth it after the third trip) or a 4-trip ticket for € 9.

If you want to see a lot of the city and are not well on foot, an Erfurt TravelCard with a transport option may also be worthwhile for you. More about this later.

Our comprehensive 2-Days in Erfurt Itinerary

Erfurt 2-day-Itinerary – Day 1

So, let’s start with our first day in Erfurt.

The Kinderkanal figures

Erfurt was a surprisingly beautiful journey back to childhood for me. Because while visiting the town, I was able to meet some of my childhood heroes.

Scattered all over the city, you can find popular characters from the German children’s channel (KiKa) —a pleasant surprise for young and old.

If you follow this itinerary, you will pass by many of the characters, or you can reach them via minor detours.

If you don’t know the characters like Eduardo, who didn’t grow up in Germany, it’s still fun to find them throughout town.

You can either look for the figures yourself or follow this list with all the figures and locations (I’ve also included the figures in the map above in dark pink).

Erfurt Cathedral St. Marien

Opening Hours Erfurt Cathedral: Mon-Fri: 10 am – 6 pm; Sat+Sun: 1 pm – 6 pm – detailed info on the official website

Entrance Fee Erfurt Cathedral: free of charge

Let’s start our self-guided tour of Erfurt with one of the city’s most impressive sights – the Erfurt Cathedral of St. Mary.

You can spot the towers of the two houses of worship towering magnificently over the square from the Domplatz (Cathedral Square). The cathedral is located right next to the equally impressive St. Severi Church (we’ll talk about it in the next point).

The enormous tower of the cathedral rises more than 80 meters into the air. You can reach and enter the striking building via the cathedral steps.

The interior of the 14th-century cathedral is as impressive as its exterior . A tour of the cathedral reveals a detailed interior wall design that will captivate any visitor – religious or not.

Fun Fact: Erfurt Cathedral even holds a world record. Its bell, the Gloriosa, is the largest free-swinging bell in the world.

St. Severi Church

Opening Hours St. Severi Church: 09.30 am – 06 pm

Entrance Fee St. Severi Church: free of charge

After admiring Erfurt’s impressive St. Mary’s Cathedral, we turn to the neighboring sight – St. Severi Church.

Situated directly on the Cathedral Hill, the Severi Church forms a unique architectural ensemble together with the cathedral, considered a landmark of the city of Erfurt. Its unique shape, reminiscent of a late Gothic hall church, makes it one of Germany’s most important Gothic buildings.

Inside the church, the bones of the church’s patron saint, Severus of Ravenna, rest in an elaborately designed sarcophagus. The church’s history dates back to the early Middle Ages, and it has undergone many changes and restorations over the centuries.

A visit to the Church of St. Severus is a must for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the culture and history of Erfurt.

We were especially surprised by the significant difference between the neighboring cathedral and the Severi Church in interior design.

Domstufen – Cathedral steps

After your visit to the two glorious churches, our journey through Erfurt continues. So, let’s now climb down the 70 steps leading up to the cathedral .

From here, you have an excellent view of the stately cathedral square and the surrounding colorful buildings.

Extra tip: If you need a little snack in between, my friend Melissa recommends some delicious Baumstriezel from Café am Dom .

Cathedral Square

After taking the cathedral steps down, we reach Cathedral Square, one of the largest market squares in Europe .

Take some time to turn around and look at the iconic two houses of worship in all their glory from the square.

If you come to Cathedral Square on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday between 6:30 am and 2 pm, you can also take a spin around the small weekly market and stock up on flowers or fresh local produce.

Petersberg Citadel

Opening Hours Petersberg Citadel: 10 am – 06 pm

Entrance Fee Petersberg Citadel: Depending on the exhibition – Kommandantenhaus exhibition : 7 €

Overlooking the towers of Erfurt Cathedral and St. Severi’s Church, another impressive landmark towers over the city – Petersberg Citadel – one of the largest and best-preserved Baroque city fortresses in Europe .

Once founded as a Benedictine monastery in the 12th century, this fortress has had a fascinating journey through time. Its mighty walls and deep moats tell stories of centuries.

As you stroll through the fortress, you’ll be transported back in time by the interactive exhibition in the Kommandantenhaus . Experience the monastic times, the history of the fort, and the life of the soldiers.

Another highlight is the free outdoor elevator. Not only does it make your ascent easier, it also offers an unforgettable view of the two churches we visited earlier. It’s worth the trip to the top for this view alone . We could have stood here for hours, and I must have taken a hundred photos of this incredible view.

Gedenk- und Bildungsstätte Andreasstraße – Memorial & Educational Site

Opening Hours : Wed+Fri-Sun: 10 am – 6 pm; Tues+Thu: 12 pm – 8 pm; closed Mondays

Entrance Fee: 2 € (Media Guide: +3 €)

If you only had time for one sight in Erfurt, I’d recommend the Andreasstraße Memorial and Educational Site. Although this place is certainly not a happy one, it is essential to remember what happened in the former Stasi prison.

Whether you have visited the GDR yourself or, like me, weren’t born until after the border was opened, this place not only conveys the fate of the prisoners but offers a detailed look into German-German history.

There are so many interesting stories and info to follow. Even if you, like Eduardo, don’t speak German, the English media guide will help you understand the entire exhibition.

With the video material in the media guide and the other exhibits and information, we spent almost three hours here.

Rest of the day at leisure

If you still have time left after all that sightseeing, feel free to explore Erfurt on your own.

Enjoy one of the bars, cafes, or restaurants we have listed later in this article, stroll through the beautiful alleys of the city, or check out one of the extra things to see in Erfurt we present at the end of this itinerary.

Erfurt in 2 days – Day 2

We are already starting the second of our 2 days in Erfurt. Strengthen yourself with a hearty breakfast, and you’re ready to go. So, let’s start by checking what to do in Erfurt on day two.

We start the second day of our Erfurt walking tour at the Erfurt fish market. Contrary to what you might expect, no more fish is being sold here nowadays.

Instead, picturesque multicolored house facades and contemplative architecture await you. Particularly popular is the town hall and the Haus zum Roten Ochsen (“House of the Red Ox”), a Renaissance building from the 16th century, on whose frieze you can see a red ox.

My personal favorite building here, by the way, is the red and white Haus zum Breiten Herd , which you can spot in the photo above.

From the fish market, we make our way through the picturesque Waagegasse, where you will find beautiful half-timbered houses .

Stroll through the alley full of medieval charm and let yourself be enchanted by the former warehouse buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Old synagogue

Opening Hours : Tue-Sun: 10 am – 6 pm; closed on Mondays

Entrance Fee : 8 €

If you want to delve even deeper into Erfurt’s history, the Old Synagogue is a great place to do so.

In this interesting museum, you can learn more about Jewish life through the centuries and discover the more than 750-year-old mikvah and the Jewish treasure of Erfurt .

The museum is located in one of the oldest still preserved synagogues in Central Europe.

We found the visit very interesting, especially learning more about the history and the treasure in the basement. However, to be quite honest, we probably would not have visited the synagogue without our Erfurt Card. But of course, it all depends on personal taste – for those interested in history and religion, it is definitely worth seeing.

Krämer Bridge

Let’s move on to one of the top attractions in Erfurt. The Krämerbrücke is the heart of the city and the longest inhabited and built bridge in Europe.

As a landmark of Erfurt, the Krämerbrücke was initially built of wood and replaced by a stone structure in 1325. What makes it so unique is the fact that it was originally built with 62 narrow houses, which were later combined into 32 houses.

Today, the bridge is home to numerous galleries, shops, and craft workshops , ranging from pottery and woodcarving to glassblowing workshops.

As you stroll across the bridge, you can admire the craftsmanship and browse specialty stores. And who knows, you might find the perfect souvenir that will remind you of your trip to Erfurt for a long time to come.

Teatrum Mundi

Looking for a little puppet show? In the Theatrum Mundi ( the world theater ) on the Krämerbrücke, fairy tale lovers young and old can follow the story of Snow White .

After inserting a coin, the mechanical puppets present the fairy tale. Follow the story played in the small showcase of Theatrum Mundi after the mirror is released, and let yourself be transported for a moment into a magical fairy tale world.

Unfortunately, the small puppet theater was out of service during our visit, so we could not see it.

Goldhelm Ice Cream – Eiskrämer

Follow the Krämerbrücke a bit further to reach one of my favorite attractions in Erfurt, the Eiskrämer. Following the motto of natural ice cream without fuss , you’ll find a few unique ice cream flavors here.

Don’t let the line out the door stop you – trust me, you’ll need the time in line to read through the somewhat unusual ice cream flavors and decide on one (or more) of them.

Extra tip: For those with a sweet tooth or memorable souvenirs for loved ones back home, I also recommend visiting the neighboring Goldhelm Chocolate Bridge store . We opted for the “Käptn’s Karamell und Meersalz” ( Caramell and Seasalt ) and were not disappointed.

Enjoy your ice cream at the Gera

After ordering your delicious ice cream, you can walk to the north side of the Krämerbrücke . If the weather is good, you can sit down on the steps, very close to the KiKa figures of Moppi and Schnatterinchen (I marked them for you on the map at the beginning of the post).

Enjoy the view of the ducks and the picturesque buildings of the Krämerbrücke . In warm weather, the breeze from the Gera, known here as the Breitstrom, is a refreshing treat. For me, definitely the nicest place to eat ice cream in the city.

St. Ägidien Church Tower

Opening Hours St. Ägidien Church Tower: 11 am – 05 pm

Entrance Fee St. Ägidien Church Tower: It is requested to make a little donation in an amount of your choice.

After you’ve taken a breather with an ice cream from Goldhelm and recharged your batteries a little, we’ll head up high. The steeple of the St. Ägidien Church offers an excellent view over the Krämerbrücke and the roofs of the city .

Admittedly, the way up is not without its difficulties. There are numerous steps over a relatively steep staircase waiting for you. But trust me, the way up is absolutely worth it.

A magnificent view awaits you at the top. Discover Erfurt from a whole new angle and let yourself be surprised by its clear view.

Wenigemarkt

If you follow the Krämerbrücke to the end, you will reach the Wenigemarkt – for me, one of the most beautiful areas of the city .

The square itself is adorned by colorful farmhouses from the 19th century. Once, the square was an important market and trading place.

Today, it is home to numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants that invite you to linger. Wander around a bit and then take a seat at a place of your choice to end the day with a cool or hot drink.

Übersee Terrace

A recommendation at Wenigemarkt is the terrace of the Übersee restaurant . It offers a wide selection of hot and cold drinks, and you can enjoy the view of the Gera River.

We came here twice because we were totally enchanted by the view of the water and the tranquility that this terrace exudes.

Even though we didn’t try the food ourselves, I have to admit that it looked really good. For a drink, in any case, clear recommendation!

More things to do in Erfurt

Do you have more time after exploring Erfurt in two days, or do you want to replace one of the sights in our itinerary with another? In this section, you will find a few additional sights of Erfurt that are worth a visit.

Opening Hours : Tue-Sun: 09 am – 6 pm during peak season. You can find all the opening hours here .

Entrance Fee : from 6 €

Visit one of the largest and most beautiful gardens in Germany. With various themed flowerbeds, such as a picturesque rose bed and a Japanese rock and water garden, you’ll hardly be able to get enough of the colorful nature of these grounds – A splendid change of pace from sightseeing in the old town.

Natural History Museum Erfurt

Entrance Fee : 6 €

Erfurt’s Natural History Museum invites you to explore the nature of Thuringia. You can discover the region’s animal and plant life on four exhibition floors traversed by an impressive 14-meter-high oak tree.

Particularly fascinating is the swaying Noah’s Ark in the basement, which draws attention to the global threat to biodiversity.

City Museum Erfurt – Haus zum Stockfisch

Entrance Fee: 6 €

The Haus zum Stockfisch in Erfurt, initially built in 1607, is a testament to the city’s rich commercial history. Since 1974, it has housed the city’s history museum. The striking facade with its checkerboard pattern and the exhibitions inside take you on a journey through Erfurt’s trading past.

Augustinian monastery

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 10 am – 3 pm; Sat+Sun: 10 am – 1 pm

Entrance Fee: 07,50 € (Audio-Guide-Tour)

The Augustinian monastery in Erfurt, a place rich in history, was built around 1300 and served as a home for the famous Augustinian monk Martin Luther, who entered here in 1505.

The permanent exhibition “Bible-Monastery-Luther” and the “Luther Cell” provide deep insights into Luther’s life and work in Erfurt. A visit here is like a journey through time, highlighting the spiritual side of Erfurt and Luther’s importance to the city.

Erfurt Christmas Market

If you happen to visit Erfurt at Christmas time or if you liked Erfurt so much that you have to revisit it at Christmas time, you should pay a visit to the annual Christmas market.

The Christmas market is one of the most beautiful in Germany and is convenient with delicious snacks and various offers.

It is set up every year on the Domplatz. The magnificent cathedral and Severi Church in the background make it all the more impressive.

Where to eat in Erfurt

Of course, you have to eat something during your trip to Erfurt. Here are a few personal favorites.

My personal favorite place in Erfurt. The terrace in the lower part of the restaurant directly on the Gera invites you to linger – and the selection is vast. Whether a drink, a snack, or a delicious lunch or dinner. I am sure you will find something you like on the menu.

It’s just the thing for those with a sweet tooth. With several ice cream parlors (Eiskrämer) and chocolate stores in Erfurt, Goldhelm is a paradise for those who want to lose themselves in a massive selection of delicious chocolate and unique ice cream varieties.

Haus zum Naumburgischen Keller

If you visit Erfurt, you should experience the excellent cuisine of Thuringia. Especially popular, if you’re not a vegetarian, is the Thuringian Rostbratwurst. You can find them in snack bars and restaurants all over the city. However, the chefs at Haus zum Naumburgischen Keller serve them exceptionally well. They are served with fried potatoes and sauerkraut – very tasty.

Angus Döner

Germany is famous for its delicious doner kebab. But did you know they say you can find the best kebab in the East? And Angus Döner is another excellent example of that.

The staff here is super warm, and the kebab is simply delicious. So, if you’re looking for something simple to eat, this is the place for you.

Where to stay in Erfurt

The best Hotel in Erfurt

Best western plus hotel excelsior.

We really liked this hotel. Located right by the train station and not far from the main sights, on the Anger in Erfurt, you have a perfect location for your time in Erfurt.

The rooms are cozy, the service is good, and the breakfast is plentiful. What more could you ask for?

Check further info, prices, and availability of Best Western Plus

The best budget accommodation

Pension gerber.

Pension Gerber in Erfurt is a charming, family-run guest house located about 800 meters from Erfurt Cathedral. In bright rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV, you can relax after a day in the city. The relatively central location allows you to reach the heart of Erfurt’s Old Town in just 15 minutes on foot.

The warm atmosphere and personal service are particularly noteworthy, turning your stay into a unique experience.

Check further info, prices, and availability of Pension Gerber

Is the Erfurt Card worth it

The Erfurt Card includes free admission and discounts to various facilities in the city for 48 hours . You can currently purchase it online or at the local tourist information office for €14.90 .

If you would also like unlimited travel on public transportation, you can purchase the ErfurtTravelCard for €21.90 .

When you follow our Erfurt 2-day itinerary and want to see all the sights (+ Mediaguide at the Andreasstraße Memorial), the ErfurtCard will pay for itself .

If you also want to visit other sights, like the museums on our list of additional attractions, the ErfurtCard is definitely worth it.

The ErfurtTravelCard, on the other hand, is only recommended if you have limited mobility, are traveling with (small) children, or are dependent on public transportation for some other reason.

Ideally, you should think about which sights you want to see before you arrive and do a quick calculation to see if the ErfurtCard is worth it for your trip.

FAQs about traveling to Erfurt

It is recommended to spend at least 2 days in Erfurt to see the main sights of the city.

With its relatively small size, Erfurt is ideal for exploring on foot, as most of the sights are located right in the city center.

In Erfurt, especially Thuringian dishes are enjoyed, such as the Thuringian Rostbratwurst or Thuringian dumplings. In winter, you should try the Erfurt Schittchen (Stollen Christmas Cake).

When you visit Erfurt, you should see the Erfurt Cathedral and the St. Severi Church. Another landmark of the city is the Krämerbrücke in the historic center.

The broad bean “ Erfurter Puffbohne ,” with its high protein content and cultivation, has a long tradition in the region of Erfurt. Therefore, today, it is considered a city symbol and a popular souvenir.

As the capital of Thuringia, Erfurt is considered one of the most influential cities in Germany.

The river that flows through Erfurt is the Gera. In Erfurt, however, the part of the river that flows through the city center is also called Breitstrom .

Interested in Germany?

About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

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