Erfurt is a city that invites walking. Its compact Old Town is packed with medieval charm, cobbled alleys, and striking architecture—all best enjoyed on foot. What makes Erfurt especially appealing for walking tours is its walkable core, where centuries of history unfold at every turn. We’re particularly fond of the Old Town Guided Walking Tour, which offers a relaxed, storytelling dive into the city’s most iconic sights. Walking through its historic streets, you’ll admire the towering Cathedral of St. Mary, cross the Krämerbrücke, and marvel at the half-timbered houses—all while hearing stories that bring the city’s past to life. These tours make it easy to get oriented, learn local stories, and see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
For a more themed experience, the On the road with the bridge builder tour stands out. It combines history with a tasty twist, celebrating the Krämerbrücke‘s 700th anniversary with stories and a peek into local commerce. And if you’re pressed for time but want a quick taste of Erfurt’s essence, the Express Walk with a Local offers a compact, insider’s view perfect for travelers on a tight schedule.
Below, we explore each of these tours in detail, helping you find the one that matches your interests, schedule, and pace.
1. Erfurt: Old Town Guided Walking Tour
This Old Town Guided Walking Tour is our top pick for its breadth and depth. For just $15 per person, you get two hours of wandering through one of Germany’s most intact medieval centers. The tour covers key sights like the Cathedral of St. Mary, famous for its soaring Gothic spire, and the Krämerbrücke, a medieval bridge lined with centuries-old houses that still house shops and cafes. The guide shares lively stories and fun facts, transforming the architecture into a narrative of Erfurt’s past.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of sights and storytelling. You’ll stroll through quaint alleys lined with old townhouses of wealthy patricians, and admire the Gothic Revival style of the Town Hall. The reviews are mostly positive, with a 4.7/5 rating from over 1,000 reviews, and visitors appreciate the value and the engaging guide. One reviewer mentioned, “It was okay,” which suggests that while some may expect a very casual experience, most find it rewarding and informative.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, affordable introduction to Erfurt’s main sights with a friendly guide, this tour hits the mark.
2. Erfurt: On the road with the bridge builder. Walking tour with anniversary tasting
Celebrating the 700th anniversary of the Krämerbrücke, this Bridge Builder Tour offers a more intimate, themed experience. Limited to around 10 people, it dives into the stories of the bridge’s merchants and artisans, with a visit to the BrückenKeller under a junk shop. Here, you’ll get insights into the private lives of shopkeeper families and see a traditional Bohlenstube, a typical merchant’s living space—something most travelers don’t get to see otherwise.
What makes this tour special is its focus on storytelling and local commerce, combined with a tasting component that highlights regional flavors. The guide’s storytelling style is engaging, with reviews quoting, “Der Brückenkrämer hat uns super in seine Zeit versetzt,” which means you really feel transported back in time. At just over two hours, it’s not a lengthy commitment but offers a deep dive into one of Erfurt’s most iconic landmarks.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in local stories, craftsmanship, and a personal touch, this tour offers both history and a taste of local life.
3. Erfurt: Express Walk with a Local
If your time in Erfurt is limited but you want a local’s perspective, the Express Walk with a Local offers a quick, energetic introduction. For $78 per person, you’ll enjoy 1 to 2 hours exploring the city’s core as your local guide shows you the must-see spots like the Krämerbrücke and the Cathedral, finishing at the Zitadelle Petersberg.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on insider tips—best cafés, bars, and spots that aren’t on every tourist map. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and get practical advice on enjoying Erfurt’s present-day culture. The itinerary includes stops like the Angerbrunnen and various sightseeing points, with the guide sharing personal insights along the way.
While it’s slightly pricier per hour, the personalized approach and local knowledge make it a valuable option for those who want to see Erfurt through a more authentic lens. The tour’s shorter duration is ideal for a city layover or a quick afternoon visit.
Bottom line: Great for those with limited time who want a curated, insider’s view of the city’s highlights and local hotspots.
$78 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your timeframe, budget, and interests. If you want a rundown, the Old Town Guided Walking Tour offers great value and a broad experience. For a thematic, story-rich experience with local flavors, the Bridge Builder Tour provides a unique look at the Krämerbrücke’s history. And if your schedule is tight but you crave an authentic, insider view, the Express Walk with a Local makes every minute count.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Be sure to check each tour’s availability and start times—many are flexible but fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Erfurt offers a variety of walking experiences tailored to different interests and schedules. For first-timers wanting a full introduction, the Old Town Guided Tour is the best choice. If you’re interested in local stories and craftsmanship, the Bridge Builder Tour combines history with a tasty twist. For those short on time but eager to see the city through a local’s eyes, the Express Walk delivers quick, valuable insights.
All these options provide a different flavor of Erfurt, making it worthwhile to choose based on what excites you most—be it history, local culture, or efficiency. Remember, booking in advance often helps secure the best times and guarantees you won’t miss out. Whichever you pick, these tours will give you a richer, more connected experience of this charming city.