Thuringia Travel Guide

Discover Thuringia, the hidden gem of Germany, with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out what to see, where to stay, and what to eat in this beautiful region of Central Europe.


Introduction to Thuringia

Nestled in the heart of Germany, Thuringia is a region that is often overlooked by travellers. However, with its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and welcoming people, it is definitely worth a visit. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of the outdoors, or simply looking for an authentic German experience, Thuringia has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Thuringia

Here is a list of some of the top places to visit in Thuringia:

  • Erfurt: Known as the “Rome of Thuringia” for its beautiful medieval architecture
  • Weimar: The cultural heart of Germany, where Goethe and Schiller once lived
  • Wartburg Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German
  • Eisenach: A charming town with picturesque half-timbered houses and the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach
  • Buchenwald Memorial: A sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime
  • Thuringian Forest: A nature lover’s paradise with hiking and biking trails, ski resorts, and scenic views
  • Jena: A vibrant university town with a rich scientific and cultural history
  • Mühlhausen: A well-preserved medieval town with impressive city walls and gates
  • Schmalkalden: A small town with a beautiful old town and a castle that dates back to the 14th century

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Thuringia has a rich cultural history, and there are many museums and historical places that are worth visiting. Here are a few highlights:

  • Goethe National Museum: Located in Weimar, this museum celebrates the life and work of Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
  • Bauhaus Museum: Also in Weimar, this museum explores the history and influence of the Bauhaus movement, which revolutionized modern design and architecture
  • Bach Museum: Located in Eisenach, this museum is dedicated to the life and work of Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers of all time
  • Buchenwald Memorial: As mentioned earlier, this memorial site commemorates the 56,000 people who were killed at Buchenwald concentration camp during World War II
  • Wartburg Castle: In addition to being a stunning example of medieval architecture, Wartburg Castle is also an important site for Protestantism, as it was here that Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German
  • The Augustinian Monastery: This monastery in Erfurt is where Martin Luther became a monk, and is now a museum that explores the life and work of the Reformation leader

Natural Attractions of Thuringia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Thuringia is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, from rolling hills to deep forests. Here are some of the best outdoor attractions in the region:

  • Thuringian Forest: As mentioned earlier, this forest is a nature lover’s paradise, with miles of hiking and biking trails, ski slopes, and breathtaking views
  • Hainich National Park: This park is one of the largest connected areas of beech forests in Central Europe, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna
  • Saale-Unstrut Wine Region: While not exactly a natural attraction, this region is still worth a mention for its stunning vineyards and beautiful river views
  • Kyffhäuser National Park: This park is home to the Kyffhäuser Monument, a massive statue of Emperor Wilhelm I, as well as numerous hiking trails and scenic views
  • Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park: This park is situated at the juncture of three river valleys, and offers stunning views of rolling hills and charming villages
  • Hohenwarte Reservoir: This massive dam and lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing
  • Ilmenau Ice Cave: This natural wonder is a must-see for anyone visiting Thuringia, with its stunning ice formations and subterranean lakes

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thuringia

With its beautiful natural scenery, Thuringia is the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Rennsteig Trail: This 168-kilometer trail is one of the most popular in Germany, taking hikers through the Thuringian Forest and past scenic viewpoints
  • Ilm Valley Cycle Path: This 123-kilometer route follows the Ilm River from its source in the Thuringian Forest to the city of Weimar
  • Höhenwanderweg: This trail offers stunning views of the Thuringian Forest, taking hikers to heights of up to 800 meters above sea level
  • Gera Cycle Path: This 65-kilometer route follows the Gera River from the city of Erfurt to the town of Gera, passing through charming villages and picturesque countryside along the way

Best Things to Do in Thuringia: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and cycling, there are many other fantastic activities to enjoy in Thuringia. Here are some ideas:

  • Visit a Christmas market: Thuringia is famous for its traditional Christmas markets, where you can sip mulled wine, nibble on gingerbread, and admire the twinkling lights
  • Explore the scenic towns: From Erfurt to Weimar to Jena, Thuringia is home to some of the most picturesque towns in Germany
  • Attend a music festival: Thuringia is a hub of classical music, with many festivals and concerts held throughout the year
  • Take a hot air balloon ride: For a truly unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the Thuringian countryside
  • Go skiing: During the winter months, Thuringia’s ski resorts offer excellent snow conditions and stunning views of the surrounding mountains

Week-Long Itinerary for Thuringia

If you’re planning a visit to Thuringia, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Arrive in Erfurt, explore the Old Town and the Augustinian Monastery Day 2: Visit Weimar, see the Goethe National Museum and the Duchess Anna Amalia Library Day 3: Take a day trip to Eisenach, visit Wartburg Castle and the Bach Museum Day 4: Hike or bike the Rennsteig Trail, stopping in charming mountain towns along the way Day 5: Visit Jena, explore the city’s scientific and cultural history, and take a hot air balloon ride over the surrounding countryside Day 6: Visit the Hainich National Park and take a guided tour of the treetop walkway Day 7: Visit Mühlhausen to see its well-preserved medieval architecture, and end the day with a wine tasting in the Saale-Unstrut region

Food and Drink Scene of Thuringia

Like most regions in Germany, Thuringia has a rich culinary tradition. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Thüringer Rostbratwurst: A grilled sausage that is a popular street food in Thuringia
  • Thüringer Klöße: A type of potato dumpling that is often served with gravy and meat dishes
  • Sauerbraten: A deliciously tangy beef roast that is marinated in vinegar and spices for several days before cooking
  • Thüringer Rostbrätel: A thin pork chop that is marinated overnight, grilled, and topped with onions and mustard
  • Zwiebelkuchen: A savory onion pie that is typically served in the fall

Local Beverages

  • Thüringer Bier: With a long brewing tradition, Thuringia has many excellent local breweries that produce a variety of delicious beers
  • Müller-Thurgau Wine: Thuringia’s wine region produces many excellent white wines, including Müller-Thurgau, a popular local varietal
  • Schierker Feuerstein: A herbal liqueur that is a popular after-dinner drink in Thuringia
  • Apfelwein: A type of hard cider that is brewed in many parts of Germany, including Thuringia

Where to Stay in Thuringia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thuringia has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some suggestions:

  • Hotel Elephant Weimar: A historic hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1696, located in the heart of Weimar
  • Radisson Blu Hotel Erfurt: A modern hotel with excellent amenities, including a spa and fitness center, located in the historic city center of Erfurt
  • Pension Am Waldesrand: A cozy guesthouse in the heart of the Thuringian Forest, perfect for hikers and nature lovers
  • Meininger Hotel Erfurt: A budget-friendly hotel/hostel that offers both private and shared rooms, located near the train station in Erfurt

What to Buy in Thuringia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Thuringia, here are some ideas:

  • Christmas ornaments and decorations: Thuringia is known for its high-quality handcrafted Christmas decorations, including ornaments, pyramids, and nutcrackers
  • Beer and wine: Thuringia has many excellent breweries and wineries, so be sure to pick up a bottle or two of your favorite beverage
  • Handmade crafts: From pottery to woodworking to textiles, Thuringia has a rich tradition of high-quality handmade crafts
  • Zwiebelmarkt memorabilia: Held annually in October, the Erfurt Zwiebelmarkt is the largest onion market in the world and a must-visit event for anyone in Thuringia. Pick up a souvenir to remember your visit!

Local Culture and Customs of Thuringia

Thuringia has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional customs and celebrations still observed today. Here are a few:

  • Erfurt Christmas Market: One of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany, the Erfurt Christmas Market features over 200 stalls selling handmade crafts, food, and gifts
  • Kirmes: Held in many small towns throughout Thuringia, Kirmes is a traditional fair that features carnival rides, games, and food stalls
  • Thüringer Bachwochen: An annual music festival that celebrates the work of Johann Sebastian Bach and other famous composers
  • Weimarer Sommer: A summer music festival that features classical, jazz, and world music performances in beautiful outdoor settings

Best Time to Visit Thuringia

Thuringia is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Here are some seasonal highlights:

  • Spring: Thuringia comes alive in the spring, with blooming flowers, warmer weather, and outdoor festivals and events
  • Summer: The warm summer weather is perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor concerts and festivals
  • Fall: The autumn foliage in Thuringia is spectacular, and the annual Erfurt Zwiebelmarkt is a must-visit event for foodies
  • Winter: Thuringia is famous for its Christmas markets, and the snowy landscapes are perfect for skiing and other winter sports

Do’s and Don’ts of Thuringia

When visiting Thuringia, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including Thüringer Rostbratwurst and Sauerbraten
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the Thuringian countryside
  • Visit the region’s many museums and historic sites to learn about its rich cultural heritage
  • Explore the great outdoors with hikes and bike rides through the Thuringian Forest and other natural attractions

Don’t:

  • Arrive late for appointments or meetings, as punctuality is highly valued in Thuringia
  • Forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, as there is plenty of walking and hiking to be done in the region
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions, such as not abstaining from alcohol during Lent

Safety and Health

When travelling to Thuringia, it is important to take basic safety precautions and ensure that you have adequate health coverage. Here are some tips:

Safety in Thuringia

  • Thuringia is a safe destination for travellers, but it is always important to take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings
  • If hiking or biking in the Thuringian Forest, be sure to follow the marked trails and take appropriate safety measures, such as carrying a map, compass, and first aid kit
  • Thuringia experiences occasional severe weather, such as thunderstorms and heavy snow, so be sure to check weather forecasts and take appropriate precautions

Health in Thuringia

  • Thuringia has excellent medical facilities, but it is always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies
  • Thuringia is not a high-risk area for infectious diseases, but make sure that all routine vaccinations, such as measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) and flu, are up-to-date before travelling
  • If hiking or camping in the Thuringian Forest, be sure to carry insect repellent to guard against ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease

Getting to Thuringia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thuringia is easily accessible by plane, train, and car. Here are some tips on getting to and around the region:

Airports Near Thuringia

  • Erfurt-Weimar Airport is the closest airport to Thuringia, with daily flights from major German cities such as Frankfurt and Berlin
  • Leipzig/Halle Airport and Nuremberg Airport are also within easy driving distance of Thuringia, and offer additional flight options

Bus Stations Near Thuringia

  • Erfurt Central Bus Station is the main bus station in the region, with frequent connections to other German cities as well as nearby countries such as Austria and the Czech Republic

Other Options

  • Thuringia is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as the A4 and A9 passing through the region
  • Train travel is also a comfortable and convenient option, with high-speed ICE trains connecting Thuringia to major German cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt

How to Get Around in Thuringia

  • Thuringia has an excellent public transport system, with efficient bus and train services connecting major towns and attractions
  • Renting a car is also a good option for exploring the region at your own pace, especially if you plan on venturing off the beaten path or exploring the Thuringian countryside

Where to Go Next from Thuringia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time to explore after visiting Thuringia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Dresden: Known as the “Florence on the Elbe,” this beautiful city is home to stunning Baroque architecture, museums, and world-renowned art collections
  • Nuremberg: A historic city that is renowned for its Christmas market, as well as its history and culture
  • Leipzig: A vibrant university town that is home to cultural attractions such as the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and the St. Thomas Boys Choir
  • Berlin: Germany’s capital city is just a few hours’ drive from Thuringia, and is a must-visit destination for history buffs, foodies, and culture vultures
  • Prague: Just across the Czech border, Prague is a stunningly beautiful city that is famous for its historic architecture, art, and music scene

Conclusion

Thuringia is a hidden gem of Germany, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re hiking through the Thuringian Forest, exploring the historic towns and cities, or simply savoring the local cuisine, Thuringia is the perfect destination for travellers seeking an authentic German experience. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today!

In the streets of Jena In the streets of Jena Map of Thuringia and its administrative divisions Map of Thuringia and its administrative divisions Ringberg and part of the Thuringian Forest, seen from the village of Ruhla Ringberg and part of the Thuringian Forest, seen from the village of Ruhla Goethe and Schiller in Weimar, the place were both wrote most of their most important works Goethe and Schiller in Weimar, the place were both wrote most of their most important works


    Erfurt
    Gera
    Rudolstadt
    Saalfeld
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