For those travelers to Germany looking to expand their horizons beyond the major cities consider booking a day trip to Erfurt. This Central Germany town that was first mentioned in the history books in 742 by St. Boniface still retains a medieval air as it was one of the cities in Germany that remained intact post World War II. This town possess the ambiance of a small town while having the cultural amenities commonly associated with a large city. Here one can walk around this town without jostling with the crowds typically found in larger cities.

Best Places To Visit in Erfurt

The Krämerbrücke (Merchants’ bridge)

Is a medieval bridge in the city of Erfurt, in central Germany, which is lined with inhabited, half timbered buildings on both sides. The footbridge spans the Breitstrom, a branch of Gera River, connecting Benediktsplatz and Wenigemarkt. The bridge is one of Erfurt’s main landmarks. It is still in fairly much the same use as it has been for over 500 years.Take your time strolling along the bridge taking in the myriad of boutiques, galleries, and cafés along the way. Be sure to photograph the series of locks found chained to the iron railings.

Erfurt Cathedral

Also known as St Mary’s Cathedral, is a 1200-year-old church located in the city of Erfurt. It is of an International Gothic style and is located on a hillside overlooking the main town square, known as Domplatz (Cathedral Square) Then head over to Cathedral Square and check out St. Mary’s Cathedral. This late Gothic Cathedral sits on the site of the church that was built for Bishop Boniface in 742 and houses the world’s largest medieval free-swinging bell. If you’re hungry and need a cheap snack, pick up an original Thuringian ”Bratwurst” at the small grill stall on Cathedral Square.

Best Christmas Market

The Domplatz was a great venue for the Advent Christmas Market. The regional bratwurst was delicious – however lots of other specialty foods are available, such as a melted cheese and ham – scrumptious! Tip – don’t miss the smaller Christmas Market behind the Dom. Take the broad staircase leading up to the church plaza and head down the opposite staircase. This market is a Medieval Christmas Market with a variety of unusual foods, crafts and rides. If course, plenty of gluhwein!

Old Synagogue

Old Synagogue, a site that serves as a reminder of Erfurt’s role as one of the most influential Jewish communities in medieval Germany. This synagogue is one of the very few preserved medieval synagogues in Europe that has been restored and reopened in 2009. Among the treasures on display here include about 6,000 works of goldsmiths from the 13th and 14th century.

Gera River