Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Erfurt. Erfurt Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of ERF:
- Can you legally enter Germany? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Bus (Line 894), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from ERF to Erfurt
You have two main options for getting from Erfurt Airport into town:
- Bus (Line 894): About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Erfurt might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$17 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$36 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Erfurt
For a layover visit to Erfurt, we’d suggest Erfurt Cathedral and St. Severus Church and Krämerbrücke (Merchants’ Bridge). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Erfurt.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ERF, check out Relax in the Terminal & Plane Spotting or Airport Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Gasthaus Zur Sackpfeife and Faustfood are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Erfurt.
- At the airport: Mövenpick Cafe & Bistro and Mövenpick Coffee & Bakery Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at ERF can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Erfurt for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ERF is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Erfurt and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ERF has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Erfurt with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Erfurt may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.