An Exciting Expedition around Erfurt

Throw the bags in the trunk, make sure your phone is charged and strap on the kids' seatbelts because the family is about to go on an adventure! The first place you're going to is the magical and ancient city of Erfurt. It's over an hour and a half to drive, but fear not! There is a stop-over along the way to relax.

You must be feeling a little tired from the drive and perhaps the children are getting a bit impatient too. So this idyllic bistro in Jena is the perfect place to relax and have some refreshments. There are just a few meals served, but all of them are of the breakfast/brunch variety and are delicious. On this itinerary, you won't get lunch until 13:15, so it's recommended that you have a snack. Also if you feel like something to wake you up a little, the coffee here is superb.
Open Hours Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday - Sunday: Closed
For more information please visit the official: bistro-bs8.de

The children will be overjoyed to see this famous family-friendly zoo in Erfurt. This place boasts of 1060 animals made up of about 193 species. The monkeys are the main selling point of the zoo, and with cages which allow people to get close, and with lunch being given to them around this time, your children will have a blast watching these interesting animals run around and eat. The petting zoo area is also very popular for children, and the zoo also has an impressive aquarium that's worth seeing.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
For more information please visit the official: zoopark-erfurt.de

This lovely restaurant is ideal for families, with a child-friendly play area with books and toys. As it's only open a few hours it can get a little busy, so it's recommended to book in advance. The traditional German food here is delicious, especially the mushroom and potato soup . They also have a great assortment of cakes as well. Even though the closing time is technically 14:00, you can stay a little longer if you're still eating.
Open Hours Monday - Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday - Sunday: Closed
For more information please visit the official: landmarkt-erfurt.de

No trip to Erfurt would be complete without seeing the enchanting Kramerbrucke, or Merchant’s Bridge. This bridge has barely changed in 500 years, with picturesque galleries and boutique shops running along the bridge, lining its sides. For the children, this will be a great time to wander around and see the sites of this quirky place. For the adults this will be some nice downtime, allowing you to dip in and out of some of the shops and cafes, soaking in the great culture.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 24 hours (although shops and restaurants will vary)

See here one of Kramerbrucke's best kept secrets. This place is a little known hidden treasure, which will marvel and delight everyone in your family regardless of their age. Technically it's a workshop, but really it is so much more than that. Walking into this store is like walking into the 'Pinocchio' story, with many puppets, models, marionettes and other similar art pieces. They are being constructed before your very eyes, and your children will be amazed to learn the craftsmanship that goes into making their favourite toys. Free to enter, this is truly a must-see!
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 09:00 - 17:00
For more information please visit the official: martin-gobsch.de

If it's dinner you're thinking about now, we have you covered. For our money there is nowhere better in Erfurt than the Zum Wenigemarkt 13. In this beautiful tavern with a patio, delicious local meals are served such as potato dumplings, charbroiled sausages & other Thuringian regional dishes.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
For more information please visit the official: wenigemarkt-13.de

This atmospheric bar and lounge, named after the famous Ernest Hemmingway, is a perfect place to unwind after a long day of travelling. Relax, have one of their delicious cocktails and take in the intriguing ambience. Here you will see strange and delightful décor, including stuffed animals, along with top of the range service.
Open Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday - Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: Closed
For more information please visit the official: http://www.hemingway-erfurt.de/

Rest your head in the lovely Hotel Domizil. It's central, with great décor and comfortable beds. This four-star hotel is affordable and the perfect place to stay after a long day of travelling.