Top 3 Itineraries in Erfurt

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Morning view on the Mary Domberg cathedral with woman tourist in Erfurt city, Germany
Erfurt, Germany. Cityscape image of downtown Erfurt, Germany with Erfurt Cathedral
Top 3 Itineraries in Erfurt
Top 3 Itineraries in Erfurt
Top 3 Itineraries in Erfurt
Top 3 Itineraries in Erfurt
Top 3 Itineraries in Erfurt
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By Dr. Julius Arnegger

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Introduction

Discover the ultimate Erfurt itinerary with our top 3 picks. From attractions that capture the essence of Erfurt to in-depth experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, there’s an itinerary here for everyone. Keep reading to start planning your trip to Erfurt.

A well-designed Erfurt itinerary should capture the essence of the city by blending sightseeing with authentic local experiences. Crafting the perfect itinerary can take many hours of research and planning if you don’t know where to start.

To simplify your planning, we have reviewed the biggest selection of vacation packages in Erfurt and curated the top 3 best itineraries. These travel plans cover everything you need to consider when planning a trip to Erfurt.

For the ultimate experience, you’ll also need the perfect place to stay. Luckily, the list of top-rated hotels in Erfurt includes options for every budget and preference.

So, why wait? Scroll down to discover 3 perfect itineraries for Erfurt!

Popular Types of Trips to Erfurt

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Erfurt.

If you only have a few days, Erfurt weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Erfurt offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Erfurt are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Erfurt’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Erfurt offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Germany's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Erfurt truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Erfurt

If you’re as convinced as we are that Erfurt belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Erfurt are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Erfurt and start planning your next trip!

The Top 3 Best Erfurt Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Erfurt itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Erfurt for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 3 itineraries will help you experience the best of Erfurt without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Erfurt!

3. The Ultimate 12-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Erfurt and Beyond

Morning view on the Mary Domberg cathedral with woman tourist in Erfurt city, Germany

A scenic 12-day road trip through Dresden, Leipzig, Horn, Hohenschwangau, and Erfurt is one of the best ways to experience Germany. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 12-day itinerary means that Erfurt can easily be combined with other top destinations in Germany without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Dresden, Leipzig, Horn, Hohenschwangau, and Erfurt by public transport, renting a car in Germany opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 12 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Dresden

  • Arrival city: Dresden
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Dresden, e.g., Suitess Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Zwinger
Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Dresden. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Dresden

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Zoo Dresden, Dresden Transport Museum, Brühl's Terrace, Golden Rider, and The Grand Garden of Dresden. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Dresden, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Leipzig

Spend the day exploring Bach-Museum Leipzig, Marktplatz Leipzig, Wildpark Leipzig, Monument to the Battle of the Nations, and Botanical Garden Leipzig. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Leipzig.

Day 4: Experience Weimar

  • Destinations: Weimar
  • Driving distance: 129.8 km, approx. 1 hour and 44 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Weimar, e.g., Hotel Schillerhof
  • Sightseeing: Schillers Wohnhaus, Park a der Ilm, and Goethe's House
Continue your journey through Weimar, where you can explore Schillers Wohnhaus, Park a der Ilm, and Goethe's House. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Weimar.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Erfurt

  • Destinations: Erfurt
  • Driving distance: 57.49 km, approx. 1 hour and 41 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Weimar, e.g., Hotel Schillerhof
  • Sightseeing: Memorial and Educational Site Andreasstraße, Old Synagogue, Egapark, Domplatz, and Erfurt Cathedral
Drive through Erfurt, stopping to visit Memorial and Educational Site Andreasstraße, Old Synagogue, Egapark, Domplatz, and Erfurt Cathedral. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Nürnberg

  • Destinations: Nürnberg
  • Driving distance: 256.26 km, approx. 3 hours and 28 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Nuremberg, e.g., Leonardo Royal Hotel Nürnberg
  • Sightseeing: Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, Museums Nuremberg - Albrecht Dürer House, Handwerkerhof Nuremberg, and The Beautiful Fountain
  • Recommended tour: Nuremberg Third Reich Tour in Spanish
Spend time discovering Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, Museums Nuremberg - Albrecht Dürer House, Handwerkerhof Nuremberg, and The Beautiful Fountain, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Nuremberg.

Day 7: Spend Time in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Explore Medieval Crime Museum, Castle Garden, Blade Gate, German Christmas Museum, and Plönlein at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant.

Day 8: Explore München

Continue your road trip through München, enjoying the flexibility to explore BMW Museum, Viktualienmarkt, Nymphenburg Palace, Marienplatz, and Siegestor and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Munich.

Day 9: Wander Through München

Visit English Garden, Munich Residence, Pinakothek der Moderne, and Hofgarten as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye.

Day 10: Uncover Horn and Hohenschwangau

Continue your exploration of Königliche Kristall-Therme am Kurpark Schwangau, Hohenschwangau Castle, and Neuschwanstein Castle, taking your time to enjoy scenic drives or leisurely strolls that add to the adventure.

Day 11: Journey Through Bamberg

Take in the highlights of Schleuse 100 Ludwig-Donau-Main-Kanal, Bamberg old town, Altes Rathaus, and Bamberg Cathedral, with plenty of opportunities to pause for a break in charming villages or serene natural settings. Conclude your day with a stay at a different hotel in the heart of Dresden.

Day 12: Bid Farewell to Dresden

  • Departure city: Dresden
  • Driving distance: 34 metres, approx. 2 minutes
  • Sightseeing: Altmarkt
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Dresden. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 1351 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Erfurt.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Erfurt for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

2. The Top Recommended 4-Day Erfurt City Itinerary

Erfurt, Germany. Cityscape image of downtown Erfurt, Germany with Erfurt Cathedral

Enjoy a 4-day city break in Erfurt with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 4-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Erfurt without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Erfurt

Arrive in Erfurt and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Venedig.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Andreas Kavalier is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Erfurt's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Erfurt by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Egapark, Domplatz, Erfurt Cathedral, City Park (Stadtpark), and Hirschgarten.

Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Erfurt in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 4: Savor Your Final Moments in Erfurt

Spend your last few hours in Erfurt soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Erfurt, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Erfurt travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

1. The Perfect 3-Day Erfurt Weekend Itinerary

Erfurt, Germany. Cityscape image of downtown Erfurt, Germany with Erfurt Cathedral at summer sunset.

A 3-day weekend getaway in Erfurt offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Erfurt itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 3 days to spend, this is the perfect Erfurt weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Erfurt

Arrive in Erfurt around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Nord Park, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.

Day 2 - Discover Erfurt’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Erfurt with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit Egapark early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Erfurt Cathedral, stopping by Domplatz for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.

Day 3 - Depart from Erfurt

Make the most of your last few hours in Erfurt before your departure.
  • Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
  • Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Erfurt. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Erfurt itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Erfurt

As you explore Erfurt, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Erfurt for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Erfurt in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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