Thuringia is one of central Germany’s best-kept secrets. It offers a beautiful and relatively uncrowded destination for people seeking adventures in nature, history and architecture. Enjoy a visit to the medieval towns and witness the influence of prominent Germans, from Goethe to Marx.
Erfurt, the capital and largest city of Thuringia, has medieval architecture and an absorbing history. Visit Erfurt Cathedral and its bell, one of the largest from the Middle Ages. Stroll around the hilltop Zitadelle Petersberg, a well-preserved European Baroque fortress. Purchase local crafts along the Krämerbrücke, a long bridge covered with shops and apartments. Scale the staircase inside the nearby Ägidienkirche for a panoramic view of the town’s half-timbered houses. View the Gildehaus’ famous depictions of the virtues at the Fishmarkt square.
Get inspired in Weimar, the former capital of Thuringia. Stroll along the Ilm river on the beautiful grounds of the Stadtschloss Weimar, once a grand palace. Bauhaus University is where Walter Gropius started the influential design movement.
A short trip away is Jena, home to Friedrich Schiller University. Amble around the Botanical Garden and marvel at the Victoria amazonica, one of the world’s largest water lilies. Ride the elevator up JenTower, a socialist-era skyscraper offering exquisite views of the valley. Explore space at the Zeiss Planetarium, which features musical and educational star shows.
Drive through the state to access nature. Hike parts of the Rennsteig, Germany’s famous hiking trail that winds through the Thuringian Forest. Bring your skis to the winter resort of Oberhof.
Thuringia’s largest international airport is in Erfurt. Drive to parts of Thuringia in several hours from larger hubs of Berlin, Frankfurt or Prague. Intercity locations are easily accessible via bus or tram, though a car is useful for exploring nature. Practice your German before arriving, as Thuringia sees relatively fewer foreign tourists than other parts of Germany.
“The Green Heart of Germany” is also one of Germany’s oldest regions, making Thuringia a treasure for all kinds of adventurers.