Discovering Erfurt in 5 Steps Ultimate Guide

Charming medieval city in the middle of Germany

Discovering Erfurt: An Ultimate Guide to an Enjoyable Trip

Erfurt, the capital of the Thuringian state in central Germany, is a city rich in history and culture. From its medieval old town to its stunning architecture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. In this article, we will provide you with some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to Erfurt.

Why you should see Erfurt? Here are the 3 Most Important Reasons:

  • Rich history: Erfurt is one of Germany’s oldest cities with a history that dates back to the 7th century. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Gothic-style Erfurt Cathedral and the Krämerbrücke, a medieval bridge lined with shops and cafes.

  • Thuringian Food: Erfurt is famous for its traditional Thuringian cuisine, which includes dishes such as sausages, potato dumplings (Klöße), and apple cider. Visitors can sample the local fare at one of the city’s many taverns and restaurants.

  • Cultural Events: Erfurt is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Highlights include the Erfurt Christmas Market (between 22 November – 22 December), the Theater Festival, and the Summer Festival, which features music, theater, and dance performances.

1. Getting around:

This charming is a compact city, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to travel further, there are several options available to you, including buses and trams. Consider purchasing a day pass, which will allow you unlimited use of public transportation. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive, so it’s best to use them for shorter trips.

2. Attractions:

 

  • Old Town: The old town of Erfurt is a maze of narrow streets and charming buildings. It’s a great place to wander and explore, and there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy.

 

 

erfurt old town altstad
Erfurt Old Town

 

  • Merchants’ Bridge (Krämerbrücke): The Merchants’ Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in Europe and is a must-see for anyone visiting this old medieval like city. The bridge is lined with half-timbered houses, and there are great views of the city from the top.
krämerbrücke-bridge-river-erfurt
Krämerbrücke (Merchants’ Bridge) Erfurt – Image by Elsemargriet

 

  • St. Mary’s Cathedral (Erfurter Dom): St. Mary’s Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and its stained glass windows are particularly impressive.
erfurt catedral st. mary
Erfurt St. Mary Catedral – Image by Tom

 

  • City Park: City Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Erfurt, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. There are several benches and picnic areas, as well as a small lake and a playground.

 

3. Staying in Style: A Guide to Accommodation in Erfurt

Accommodation:

Erfurt has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. When booking your accommodation, consider your budget and the location of your hotel, as some areas of the city can be noisy and busy, while others are quiet and peaceful.

Location: When choosing your accommodation in Erfurt, it’s important to consider its location. The city center is a great place to stay, as it’s close to many of the city’s main attractions. However, it can also be noisy and busy, so it may not be the best option for everyone. If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful place to stay, consider a hotel in a residential area, or near one of the city’s parks.

Budget-friendly options:

If you’re on a budget, there are several budget-friendly options available in Erfurt. Hostels are a popular option, and many offer a range of room types, from dorm rooms to private rooms. You’ll also find several budget hotels in the city, which offer basic amenities and a comfortable place to sleep.

  1. Opera Hostel – This hostel offers dorm rooms, private rooms, and apartments, making it a great option for budget travelers.
  2. KINDheitstRAUM – A budget hotel located in the city center, this hotel offers basic amenities and a convenient location.
  3. Prizeotel – A guesthouse located in the historic old town of Erfurt, this budget-friendly option offers comfortable rooms and a great location.

Mid-range options:

  1.  Arcadia Grand Hotel– A mid-range hotel located in the city center, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining.
  2. Mercure Hotel Erfurt Altstadt – Located in the heart of the old town, this mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace.
  3. Hotel Krämerbrücke – A mid-range hotel located in the city center, this hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center and Wi-Fi.

Luxury options:

For those looking for a truly luxurious experience, Erfurt has several high-end hotels and resorts to choose from. These hotels offer a range of amenities, including spacious rooms, fitness centers, and on-site spas. Some also offer exceptional dining experiences, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal while you’re in the city.

  1. Ibis Hotel – A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
  2. Radisson Blu Hotel – A high-end hotel located in the city center, this hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, and an on-site restaurant.
  3. Dorint Hotel – A luxury hotel located in the city center, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a range of on-site dining options.

 

4. Food and Drink:

Erfurt is famous for its Thuringian sausages, and they are a must-try while you’re in the city. Other local specialties include black bread and schnapps. Erfurt also has a thriving café culture, and there are plenty of cozy cafes to enjoy a coffee or a light snack. If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, there are several excellent restaurants serving traditional German cuisine and also international cuisine like Italian, Turkish etc.

Here are some suggestions for you:

  1. Kromer’s Restaurant & Gewölbekeller  – A traditional German restaurant located in the old town, this restaurant serves classic dishes such as sausages, sauerkraut, and dumplings. Meal prices are between 10 Euro – 15 Euro.
  2. Stefados – A historic restaurant located on Mainzerhofstraße 8. This restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine, including a range of beers and ales.
  3. EAT – A charming restaurant located on Pilse 7, this restaurant serves traditional Afro American cuisine, including sandwichs, salads, and soups.
  4. Bâ Badiyel – This Turkish Restaurant offers wide variety of Turkish dishes inspired by the Ottoman cuisine. The restaurant located on Futterstraße 18/19
  5. Texas Steaklounge– This Steakhouse Restaurant located on Walkmühlstraße 13. Australian premium wagyu beef (22,90 Euro) is highly recommend.

 

5. Conclusion:

Erfurt is a city full of history and culture, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in exploring the old town, admiring the stunning architecture, or simply relaxing in one of the city’s many cafes, Erfurt is a destination that you’re sure to enjoy. With these travel tips, you’ll be well on your way to having an unforgettable trip to this charming city.

And if you want to visit Erfurt or you are already there you should definitely go to Weimar also (Only 15 minutes away). HERE you will find some useful tips for Weimar.

Also please write your comment and questions below! How was your trip in Erfurt?

 

1 Comment
  1. Stranger Backpaker says

    I had already visited the Erfurt region, I wish I had read your article then. I would have made a more productive trip. Nächstes Mal

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