Skip to content

South Africans in Germany

Facebook Instagram X-twitter Facebook Threads

Thuringia

Welcome to Thuringia, the hidden gem in the heart of Germany! Known as the “Green Heart of Germany,” this enchanting region combines breathtaking landscapes, a rich tapestry of history, and vibrant cultural experiences. 
Whether wandering through medieval castles, exploring charming towns, or savouring the iconic Thüringer Bratwurst, Thuringia promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
From the historic streets of Weimar to the tranquil trails of the Thuringian Forest, every corner invites you to uncover its stories and create unforgettable memories. The popular towns in Thuringia are Wartburg, Weimar, Erfurt, Jena and Eisenach

Why Thuringia Is The Perfect destination?

01.

Unspoiled Nature

From the rolling hills of the Thuringian Forest to picturesque valleys and rivers, Thuringia offers stunning outdoor adventures year-round.

02.

Historic Charm

With over 1,000 years of history, Thuringia boasts medieval castles, monasteries, and towns rich in culture.

03.

Location

Home to famous figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller, Thuringia is a hub for art, literature, and music.

04.

Accessible and Welcoming

Located in central Germany, Thuringia is easy to reach by car, train, or plane, making it a convenient destination for travelers. Its friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere ensure a warm welcome for visitors.

Explore

Thuringia is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences, offering something for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of medieval castles, the tranquility of lush forests, or the charm of historic towns, this region has it all. Immerse yourself in Thuringia’s rich history, discover its vibrant cultural scene, and enjoy outdoor adventures that showcase the stunning landscapes of the “Green Heart of Germany.” Here are some must-see attractions and activities to add to your itinerary!

  • Wartburg Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this castle is steeped in history and offers breathtaking views.
  • Thuringian Forest: Hike, bike, or ski through this scenic mountain range, known for its tranquillity and natural beauty.
  • Erfurt: Visit the capital city with its well-preserved medieval old town, including the stunning Cathedral of St. Mary.
  • Weimar: The birthplace of German classicism and the Weimar Republic, rich in museums and historical landmarks.
  • Buchenwald Memorial: A moving site commemorating the victims of the Holocaust, located near Weimar.

Freizeitparks (Amusement parks)

  • Erlebnispark Meeresaquarium – For an underwater adventure with over 1,000 species of fish.
  • Hohenfelden Freizeitpark – A family-friendly park offering fun rides and activities for all ages.
  • Freizeitpark Possen – A family-friendly park with a zoo, climbing park, and playgrounds. It also features a viewing tower offering stunning panoramic views of the Thuringian countryside.
  • Funpark Inselsberg – Located near the iconic Großer Inselsberg, this park offers exciting activities like summer tobogganing, trampolines, and adventure courses.
  • Erlebnisrodelbahn Rula – A thrilling summer toboggan run through beautiful forest scenery, paired with additional attractions like playgrounds, mini-golf, and a petting zoo for a fun-filled day..
  • Thüringer Zoopark Erfurt – A zoo with diverse animals and a focus on conservation efforts.
  • Freizeitpark Tabaluga – A theme park for children, inspired by the famous character Tabaluga.
  • Burg Frankenstein – A medieval amusement park with activities based on the legend of Frankenstein.
  •  The Hainich National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a pristine beech forest and biodiversity hotspot, offering treetop trails and a glimpse into Germany’s ancient natural landscapes.

Food and drinks to try

The following regional specialities are typical for Thuringia

  • Thüringer Bratwurst: The iconic Thüringian sausage, traditionally grilled and served with mustard and bread.
  • Kloß: A type of potato dumpling, often served with roast pork or sausages.
  • Thüringer Sauerbraten: A marinated beef roast that’s slow-cooked to perfection.
  • Rinderrouladen: Thinly sliced beef rolled with mustard, onions, pickles, and bacon, then braised to tender perfection.
  • Schleizer Bambser: A traditional potato dish from the town of Schleiz, combining mashed potatoes with fried onions and sometimes bacon.
  • Erfurter Schittchen: Thuringia’s unique version of Christmas stollen, packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of spice.
  • Schwarzbier: Thuringia’s own dark beer, perfect for washing down your meal.
  • Rotkäppchen Sekt: The region’s famous sparkling wine, ideal for a celebration.

Culture

Goethe’s House in Weimar

Step into the life of Germany’s greatest poet and experience his world firsthand.

Thuringian State Museum in Gotha

A museum dedicated to Thuringian art and history.

Theater Erfurt

A modern opera house hosting world-class performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts, in the heart of Thuringia’s capital.

Bauhaus Museum in Weimar

Explore the history of the Bauhaus movement that originated in Weimar and revolutionized modern design.

Friedrich Schiller’s House in Weimar

Learn about the life of the renowned playwright and poet.

Weimar Classic Foundation

A center for the region's cultural heritage and literary history

Geheimtips

  • Thuringian Forest Railway: Ride the historic steam trains through the beautiful countryside.
  • Göthe’s Garden House in Weimar: A peaceful spot where Goethe wrote many of his famous works.
  • Rennsteig Trail: Hike along one of Germany’s oldest and most scenic long-distance trails.
  • Thuringian Dumpling Museum in Themar: A quirky museum dedicated to the region’s dumpling culture.

Day trips

  • Dresden: Explore the historic city of Dresden, famous for its beautiful baroque architecture.
  • Leipzig: A vibrant cultural city, home to classical music and cutting-edge art.
  • Nuremberg: Discover medieval castles, art galleries, and museums in this iconic Bavarian city.
  • Coburg: Visit this charming town known for its royal castle and beautiful old town.
  • The Harz Mountains: Hike or ski in one of Germany’s most scenic regions, rich in folklore.

amazing things to know about Thuringia

  • Home to the First German Republic: Thuringia played a key role in the formation of the Weimar Republic.
  • Goethe and Schiller: Both of these iconic figures spent much of their lives in Thuringia, which has greatly influenced their works.
  • A Region of Castles: Thuringia has over 30 castles, each offering a unique look at the past.
  • The Green Heart of Germany: With its lush forests, Thuringia is often referred to as the “Green Heart of Germany.”
  • Famous for its Sausages: The region is world-renowned for its unique variety of sausages and culinary traditions.

Festivals

Some of the well-known festivals are:

  • Thüringer Bachwochen (Thuringia Bach Festival) in March/April. This classical music festival celebrates Johann Sebastian Bach’s legacy by featuring concerts in historic venues where Bach lived and worked, such as Eisenach and Weimar.
  • Zwiebelmarkt (Onion Market) in October. A vibrant folk festival with roots dating back to the 17th century, featuring market stalls selling onion braids, local crafts, food, and music and entertainment.
  • Wartburg Festival in Summer. This historic festival commemorates the 19th-century Wartburg Festival, blending literature, music, and history in a stunning medieval setting.
  • Schloss Friedenstein Baroque Festival in Sptember. A celebration of Baroque music, dance, and theatre in the magnificent setting of Friedenstein Castle. 
  • Rudolstadt Festival in July. Germany’s largest folk, roots, and world music festival, attracting artists from around the globe to perform in a historic town setting. 
  • DomStufen-Festspiele (Cathedral Steps Festival) in July/August. An open-air theatre and opera festival set against the breathtaking backdrop of Erfurt Cathedral and St. Severus Church.
  • Heichelheimer Kloß-Welt Festival (Potato Dumpling World Festival) in September. A quirky food festival celebrating Thuringia’s famous dumplings with competitions, tastings, and family-friendly activities.

Online resources and apps

Related content

Tourist accommodation types

Types of Tourist accommodation in Germany Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offers a diverse range of accommodation options

Read More »

Weather in Germany

German Climate Germany’s climate is temperate and marine, with cold, cloudy winters and warm summers and in the south occasional warm föhn wind. The greater

Read More »