A Journey Through Ancient German Landmarks

Start the day with a short stop for a leg stretch at the fabulous Seehof Castle in Memmelsdorf right outside Bamberg. Originally a hunting lodge from the 15th century, it turned into the summer house of the prince-bishop who also ordered the further building of the four towers you see on today's spectacular building.
It is possible to tour the castle (though only with a German guide), but today, you will just stop by to stretch your legs, walk around the gardens, and take some photos of the staggering castle before you continue on the road.
Check out the official website for more information here.

Add a quick stop at Veitsberg, there is a tiny hilltop church where you can stretch your legs while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The little church is worth peeking into, but note that it is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Monday-Wednesday opening hours: 07:15-16:00 Thursday opening hours: 07:15-18:00 Friday opening hours: 07:15-12:00

Next, pay a stop by the ruins of Mühlburg Castle. Dating back to the 8th century makes it the oldest hilltop castle in Thuringia, thus a historical monument. The Thuringia is made up of the three hilltop castles in the area where Mühlburg stands together with the Gleichen and the Wachsenburg castles, the latter only open 5 days a week, thus not included in this itinerary.
Together with the museum where you can learn more about the castle's history, the highlight of the visit is climbing the tower for spectacular views.
Opening hours: Monday-Friday 10:00-17:00 Saturday-Sunday 10:00-18:00

Gleichen Castle is situated close to Mühlburg and is the second of the Thuringia castles. It dates back to the 11th century and is the youngest of the three castles. The remains are sitting perfectly on top of a green hill with its well-preserved castle walls and a large courtyard inside.
Opening hours Monday-Sunday: 10:00-18:00.

Drive into Erfurt and park at Domplatz Parking Garage next to the cathedral. It is only a few minutes' walk from the restaurant. A traditional schnitzel restaurant serving huge portions of delight! Service is also great here.
You might want to book in advance as it can get pretty busy. Check out their website for contact information here
Opening hours daily: 12:00-24:00

After lunch, head to Erfurt Cathedral. As one of the most prominent landmarks in Erfurt, it was originally founded in AD 742. Later, in 1154, it was replaced by a Romanesque basilica which was finished in the 19th century when the towers were added. The cathedral you see today is an amazing structure that should not be missed.
The cathedral closes at 17:00 every day.

Next to the cathedral, on top of Cathedral Hill, you will see the early Gothic St. Severi church which is another mesmerizing attraction to visit. Recognized by its spires, the church dates back to the early 1100s. Since 1365, the church has been home to the tomb of St. Severus.
You can easily say that St. Severi Church and the cathedral together make out Erfurt's most recognized landmark as they complement each other on the charming Domplatz.
Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 09:30-18:00 Sunday 13:00-18:00

Head to the Old synagogue. Built around the year 1100, it is the oldest synagogue in Europe. Today, you can visit the tiny museum inside, where you among other things can see a collection of old coins and jewelry that is believed to be hidden around the times of the Black Death and through the Jewish persecution that followed.
The museum closes at 18:00 Tuesday-Sunday.
Note! The museum is closed on Mondays. If you are there on a Monday, I suggest you continue to the Krämerbrücke and spend more time wandering around that area. You can still take a picture of the synagogue from the outside as it is a unique building.

Krämerbrücke, also known as the Merchants' Bridge, is with its 125 meters, the longest medieval bridge in Europe lined with houses. It is a unique site dating all the way back to the early 1100s without having undergone any major alterations.
Now, there are a number of shops, restaurants, and bars on the bridge, so you can have something to eat or drink before returning to Dresden if you feel like it, otherwise, just strolling through and below this amazing landmark is something different than anything.

Take your time walking back to Domplatz and the car before starting on your drive back to Dresden. The Domplatz makes a perfect place for photos at sunset, but it is also wonderful after the sun goes down and the cathedral and St. Severi Church are lit up. It gives it a completely different vibe than in the day.