Thuringia · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Thuringia: The Green Heart of Germany

Discover Thuringia: Unveil the charm of Germany's lush landscapes, historic towns, and rich cultural heritage in the heart of the country.

Thuringia, often referred to as the Green Heart of Germany, is a land of rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque towns. This region in central Germany offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, making it a must-visit for any traveler. One of the highlights of Thuringia is its rich cultural heritage. The city of Weimar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was home to famous figures such as Goethe and Schiller. Visitors can explore the Goethe House and Schiller's Residence to get a glimpse into the lives of these literary giants. The Bauhaus Museum in Weimar also provides an insight into the influential design school that started here. Nature enthusiasts will find Thuringia a paradise. The Thuringian Forest is a vast expanse of greenery that offers numerous hiking and biking trails. The Rennsteig, a long-distance hiking trail, is a favorite among hikers for its scenic beauty. The Hainich National Park, another gem, is home to the last remaining primeval beech forest in Central Europe. Thuringia is also known for its charming medieval towns. Erfurt, the state capital, boasts well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive St. Mary's Cathedral and the Krämerbrücke, a bridge lined with half-timbered houses. The town of Eisenach is famous for the Wartburg Castle, where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German. Food lovers will delight in Thuringian cuisine. The region is famous for its sausages, known as Thuringian Rostbratwurst, and its hearty potato dishes. Don't forget to try the local beer and wine, which are the perfect complements to the region's culinary delights.

When is the best time to go to Thuringia?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJun–Aug
Longest daylightMay–Jul
Driest periodSep–May

Explore places in Thuringia

    See all →

    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Thuringia sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Wartburg

    Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Eisenach, Germany.

    Wartburg

    Domplatz

    Explore Erfurt's Domplatz - A historical landmark and vibrant square brimming with culture, stunning architecture, and local events.

    Domplatz

    Erfurt Cathedral

    Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Erfurt Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Germany's historic city.

    Erfurt Cathedral

    Hainich National Park

    Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity of Hainich National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that invites exploration and adventure.

    Hainich National Park

    Gleichen Castle

    Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Gleichen Castle, a medieval fortress in Drei Gleichen, Germany, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

    Gleichen Castle

    Historische Wehranlage

    Discover the historical wonders of the Historische Wehranlage in Mühlhausen, a captivating landmark showcasing the beauty of medieval architecture.

    Historische Wehranlage

    Mahnmal Grenzturm

    Discover the Mahnmal Grenzturm in Katharinenberg, a museum dedicated to the memory of a divided Germany and the stories of resilience and hope.

    Mahnmal Grenzturm

    Das schmalste Haus Erfurts

    Explore the fascinating Das schmalste Haus, Erfurt's narrowest house, and discover a unique piece of architectural history in this charming German city.

    Das schmalste Haus Erfurts

    Mittelpunkt Thüringens - Denkmal in Rockhausen

    Explore the Mittelpunkt Thüringens in Rockhausen, a historical landmark at the heart of Thuringia, surrounded by nature and rich cultural heritage.

    Mittelpunkt Thüringens - Denkmal in Rockhausen

    Herrmann's fountain

    Discover the beauty and history of Herrmann's Fountain, a stunning landmark in the heart of Erfurt's Altstadt, perfect for photos and relaxation.

    Herrmann's fountain

    Hoher Graben Defensive Wall

    Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Hoher Graben Defensive Wall in Mühlhausen, a fascinating medieval fortress in Thüringen.

    Hoher Graben Defensive Wall

    Judenstein

    Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Judenstein, a hidden tourist gem in Luisenthal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

    Judenstein

    Unesco Geopark Thueringen

    Discover the breathtaking Unesco Geopark Thüringen, where geological wonders and natural beauty await adventurers and nature lovers alike.

    Unesco Geopark Thueringen

    Den Toten zum Gedenken, den Lebenden zur Mahnung!

    Discover the poignant historical significance of Den Toten zum Gedenken, den Lebenden zur Mahnung! in Mühlhausen, Thüringen, a site that honors the past.

    Den Toten zum Gedenken, den Lebenden zur Mahnung!

    Gotischer Turm

    Explore the historic Gotischer Turm in Mühlhausen, Thüringen – a stunning Gothic landmark steeped in medieval charm and architectural beauty.

    Gotischer Turm

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    ANGER 1 Erfurt

    Experience the ultimate shopping destination in Erfurt at ANGER 1, featuring a diverse range of stores, dining options, and entertainment.

    ANGER 1 Erfurt

    Thüringen Park Erfurt

    Explore Thüringen Park Erfurt, a dynamic shopping mall with diverse stores, delectable dining, and engaging events for an unforgettable experience.

    Thüringen Park Erfurt

    Gera Arcaden

    Explore Gera Arcaden, a dynamic shopping mall in Gera, Germany, offering a blend of retail, dining, and local culture for an unforgettable experience.

    Gera Arcaden

    T.E.C. Erfurt

    Explore T.E.C. Erfurt, a shopping haven in Germany offering diverse stores and delightful dining experiences for every tourist.

    T.E.C. Erfurt

    Neue Mitte Jena

    Explore Neue Mitte Jena, a vibrant shopping mall in the heart of Jena, where local and international brands meet delightful dining experiences.

    Neue Mitte Jena

    Burgaupark Jena

    Explore Burgaupark Jena, a shopping paradise offering diverse stores, delightful dining, and vibrant community events in the heart of Jena.

    Burgaupark Jena

    Krämerbrücke

    Discover the enchanting Krämerbrücke in Erfurt, a historical bridge teeming with unique shops and rich cultural heritage.

    Krämerbrücke

    Breuninger Erfurt

    Explore Breuninger Erfurt, the stylish department store offering top fashion trends for men and women, nestled in the heart of Erfurt's shopping scene.

    Breuninger Erfurt

    Forum 1

    Discover the heart of Erfurt shopping at Forum 1, where fashion, dining, and entertainment meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

    Forum 1

    C&A

    Discover stylish clothing for the whole family at C&A in Erfurt, where fashion meets affordability in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

    C&A

    Burggalerie

    Uncover Mühlhausen's charm at Burggalerie, where shopping meets dining in a vibrant atmosphere.

    Burggalerie

    Zara

    Explore the latest fashion trends at Zara Erfurt, where style meets affordability in a modern shopping environment.

    Zara

    H&M

    Explore fashion-forward clothing for the whole family at H&M Erfurt, where style meets affordability in the heart of the city.

    H&M

    NEW YORKER

    Discover the latest fashion trends at NEW YORKER, your one-stop clothing store in Erfurt, featuring stylish apparel and trendy accessories for all ages.

    NEW YORKER

    Elbenwald

    Explore Elbenwald in Erfurt, your go-to destination for fantasy gifts, collectibles, and clothing inspired by pop culture and mythical themes.

    Elbenwald
    File:Berlin - 0266 - 16052015 - Brandenburger Tor.jpg - Wikipedia
    Destination guide

    More about Germany

    Experience Germany: where history meets innovation, and urban energy blends with natural beauty. Discover diverse cultures, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes.

    Tell me more about Germany
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Explore Thuringia in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Outside view of Wartburg Castle (4).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Erfurt cathedral and severi church.jpg - Wikipedia
    HD wallpaper: weimar, thuringia germany, old town, old building, places of  interest | Wallpaper Flare
    Datei:Weimar - 2016-09-22 - Gedenkstätte Buchenwald (068).jpg – Wikipedia
    File:Thuringian forest oberer inselsberg view to north ds 10 2006.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:House of Johann Sebastian Bach in Eisenach 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Datei:Zeiss-Planetarium 1926 Ernst-Abbe-Stiftung - Jena Thüringen Foto  Wolfgang Pehlemann Steinberg PICT0028.jpg – Wikipedia
    File:Kyffhauser and monument Thuringia Germany (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Goethe Schiller Weimar.jpg - Wikipedia
    Datei:Schönstedt, Nationalpark Hainich, Baumkronenpfad -- 2017 -- 7458.jpg  – Wikipedia

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.