How to get to Erfurt

A journey to Erfurt is an opportunity to find yourself in the very heart of Germany, where medieval architecture is magnificently preserved and the cosy atmosphere of an old European city prevails. As the capital of the federal state of Thuringia, this city boasts excellent transport accessibility, welcoming guests arriving by plane, train, bus, and car. Whether you are planning to reach Erfurt for a stroll across the famous Krämerbrücke bridge or for a business meeting, your trip promises to be comfortable and memorable.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by its own Erfurt Airport (ERF), located just a few kilometres from the centre, ensuring convenient connections with the outside world. Thanks to the airport's compact size, all arrival procedures are completed quickly and without unnecessary hassle.

If direct flights are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly to neighbouring cities followed by a transfer. The nearest alternatives include airports in Eisenach (about 50 km), as well as larger international hubs such as Leipzig and Kassel. These transport hubs are well-integrated into the general network, making it easy to continue your journey to your final destination.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and eco-friendly options, as Erfurt is a key junction on the German railway map (ICE-Hub). The main gateway to the city is Erfurt Hauptbahnhof, a modern and spacious transport complex where high-speed trains regularly arrive from all corners of the country.

Thanks to its central location, you can reach the city very quickly from neighbouring towns. For instance, the train journey from Eisenach or Leipzig takes minimal time. The trip from Kassel is also notable for its convenience and frequency of services, allowing tourists to enjoy the picturesque views of Thuringia from the window of a comfortable carriage.

Intercity buses offer a budget-friendly and quite comfortable way to reach the capital of Thuringia. Routes connect the city with many points across Germany. For example, a trip from Leipzig will take only about 1.3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 119 km, making this a great alternative to the train.

Travellers departing from Eisenach will spend about 1.5 hours on the road. If you plan to depart from Kassel, be prepared for a longer journey — about 3.9 hours; however, modern buses are usually equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable trip over such distances.

Travelling by car offers maximum freedom of movement and allows you to plan stops at picturesque locations along the way. The drive from Eisenach to Erfurt takes less than an hour — just about 0.9 h (distance 70 km), making this route ideal for short visits.

The road from Leipzig (about 146 km) requires approximately 1.7 hours of driving time along high-quality autobahns. If you are heading from Kassel, expect to spend about 2 hours on the road, covering a distance of just over 150 km. Taxis for such distances can be quite expensive, so car rental or car-sharing are often more favourable options.

Erfurt is an incredibly hospitable and safe city, but knowing a few local nuances will make your stay here much more comfortable and help avoid minor misunderstandings.

1. Clothing and Footwear: The historic city centre is paved with cobblestones, so be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes. Heels can become a real challenge when walking across the famous Krämerbrücke bridge.
2. Transport: The historic centre is compact and best explored on foot. For trips to further distances, use the trams (Stadtbahn) — this is a fast and eco-friendly way to get around. Tickets must be validated immediately upon entry.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Although cards are accepted in many places, small bakeries, souvenir shops, or markets often request cash. Always keep some small notes with you.
4. Health and Safety: Tap water is of high quality and safe to drink. Pharmacies are marked with a red letter "A" (Apotheke). The city is safe, but standard vigilance in crowded places is advisable.
5. Communication: The main language is German. In tourist zones and hotels, staff often speak English, but learning phrases like "Guten Tag" (Good day) and "Danke" (Thank you) always creates a positive impression with locals.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to greet the shop assistant when entering a store. On Sundays, most shops are closed (Ruhetag); only bakeries, cafes, and shops at the train station remain open.
7. What to Avoid: Do not walk on bicycle lanes — cyclists ride quickly here and expect a clear path. This can be dangerous and may cause annoyance.
8. Gastronomic Tip: The region is famous for the Thuringian sausage (Thüringer Rostbratwurst) sold at street stalls. Please note that the traditional recipe contains pork, though other halal dining options are available throughout the city.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to feel at home in Erfurt and focus on enjoying the beauty of its medieval streets and squares.