Erfurt

Thuringia's capital and largest city, featuring a stunning medieval old town with the iconic Krämerbrücke, a bridge lined with historic shops and homes. The city is home to important religious sites including the Erfurt Cathedral and offers excellent museums, gardens, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Things to do

• Walk across Krämerbrücke — Stroll across this unique medieval bridge lined with half-timbered shops, cafes, and homes dating back to the 12th century.
• Visit Erfurt Cathedral — Explore this stunning Gothic cathedral featuring the famous Glockenspieler bell and beautiful stained glass windows in the heart of the old town.
• Tour Petersberg Citadel — Discover this impressive baroque fortress overlooking the city with museums, exhibitions, and panoramic views of Erfurt.
• Explore the Alte Synagoge — Visit one of Europe's oldest synagogues, dating to the 11th century, now a museum documenting the history of Erfurt's Jewish community.
• Relax in Egapark — Wander through this expansive horticultural garden featuring themed sections, flower displays, and a tower offering city views.
• Browse Angermuseum — See Thuringia's finest art collection housed in a Renaissance palace, featuring medieval altarpieces and contemporary works.

Food to try

• Erfurt Bratwurst — Try this regional sausage specialty, smaller and more finely spiced than other German bratwursts, typically served in a roll with mustard.
• Thuringian Rostbrätel — Savor thin slices of marinated beef roasted on a grill and served with a distinctive onion and vinegar sauce.
• Butterbrezel — Enjoy a warm, fresh pretzel rich with butter, a beloved local snack found at bakeries and street vendors throughout the city.
• Erfurt Schmorgurke — Sample this traditional braised cucumber dish cooked with mustard and cream, a hearty Thuringian vegetable specialty.
• Apfelstrudel mit Vanillesoße — Indulge in warm apple strudel served with creamy vanilla sauce at traditional cafes near the old town.

Local customs & good to know

• Learn the Martin Luther connection — Erfurt has deep ties to Luther, who studied at the university here—look for plaques and historic sites marking his presence throughout the city.
• Visit during flower festivals — Time your visit for the annual Blütentraum (Blossom Dream) festival in spring or summer to experience Egapark at its most vibrant.
• Explore on foot in the Altstadt — The medieval old town is best experienced by walking its narrow, winding streets rather than using public transport.
• Respect religious site protocols — When visiting the Cathedral or Severikirche, dress modestly and observe quietness as these are active places of worship.