Medieval streets, a bridge full of life, and a cathedral steeped in history – Erfurt is a city that you don’t just visit, you experience it. Between romantic half-timbered houses, culinary highlights, and a surprisingly creative scene, there is plenty to discover. Here are 11 things to do in Erfurt that will make your visit special.
The Krämerbrücke – Living Above the Water
Imagine a bridge that is not only crossed but also inhabited! The Krämerbrücke is Europe’s longest bridge with houses built on it and a real gem. There are no run-of-the-mill shops here, but small stores selling handicrafts, delicacies, and chocolate. If you’re lucky, you might meet a doll maker or a painter in their workshop.
Cathedral and St. Severus’ Church – Stairs With a View
Mighty, imposing, and steeped in history: St. Mary’s Cathedral towers over the cathedral square and impresses with its huge Gloriosa bell. Right next to it, the St. Severus’ Church rises into the sky. If you sit on the steps in the evening, you’ll understand why this place is Erfurt’s living room.
The Old Synagogue – The Middle Ages Up Close
Almost 1,000 years old and a real gem: the Old Synagogue tells the story of Erfurt’s Jewish history and houses the famous Erfurt treasure – a medieval fortune in gold and silver coins that was hidden in a house wall.
Petersberg Citadel – The Impregnable Fortress
What do a star and a fortress have in common? Petersberg Citadel is one of the last Baroque city fortresses in Europe and has a star-shaped floor plan. Here you’ll find mysterious listening passages, a great view, and on balmy summer evenings, a glass of wine in the wine distillery.
Martin Luther and the Augustinian Monastery
“Here I stand, I can do no other.” Okay, Luther didn’t say this in Erfurt, but this is where he became a monk. The Augustinian monastery is a historical gem and invites you to follow in the footsteps of the famous reformer – or simply enjoy the silence for a while.
Erfurt’s Gardening Tradition – Green Thumbs for Centuries
Even Goethe was enthusiastic about Erfurt’s flowers! Since the 18th century, the city has been considered the cradle of horticulture. If you want to learn more about its green heritage, stroll through the Erfurt Garden Exhibition (egapark) with the largest ornamental flower bed in Europe or visit the German Horticultural Museum.
Domstufen Festival – Opera With Goose Bumps Guaranteed
Every summer, the cathedral steps are transformed into a spectacular open-air stage. With the cathedral as a backdrop, operas and musicals are performed here under the open sky – a spine-tingling experience, even for culture vultures!
Goldhelm Chocolate – Sweet Happiness on the Krämerbrücke
Chocolate made with love in a small factory? Welcome to Goldhelm! In addition to handmade chocolate, they also offer sensational ice cream! Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never want supermarket chocolate again.
The Heimathafen Brewery – Beer, but Handmade, Please
Erfurt isn’t just about flowers, it’s also home to some great beer. The Heimathafen brewery produces creative craft beers that taste anything but ordinary. If you want, you can mix your own brew in a brewing course – cheers!
Krämerbrückenfest – When the City Travels Back to the Middle Ages
Once a year, Erfurt turns back the clock. At the Krämerbrückenfest, the old town becomes a stage for jugglers, musicians, and traders. And the folk hero Till Eulenspiegel himself mingles with the crowd – will he teach a donkey to read again?
Theater Waidspeicher – Puppet Shows for Adults
Handcrafted stories, intricate figures, and a little magic: Theater Waidspeicher is much more than a place for children’s plays. The productions here range from classic literature to modern works and show that puppet theater can also evoke big emotions.
