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Thuringian basin loop tour, 8 days
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The Krämerbrücke in Erfurt

Thuringian Basin

The most beautiful places of Eldorado

8 Days / 7 Nights
Medium
The Krämerbrücke in Erfurt

The essentials at a glance

Circular cycling tour through the Thuringian Basin from Eisenach to historic towns including Mühlhausen, Erfurt, and Weimar. Ride along the Werra Valley cycle path through romantic gorges, past Normannstein Castle, and explore Erfurt's unique Krämerbrücke. Visit Weimar's cultural heritage sites linked to Goethe and Schiller, cycle through the Weimar countryside with romantic castle grounds, and discover the Drei Gleichen fortress ensemble. Medium difficulty with mostly flat terrain and some hilly sections on days two and six.

The beauty of Thuringia’s Basin is dotted by the most famous places and town of the region: Mühlhausen, Eisenach, Erfurt and Weimar. It is always a reason to dismount your bicycle along the well-developed river cycle paths – to enjoy the scenic view, historic points of interest and the very good Thuringian cuisine. You will join our opinion that cycle tours in Thuringia are an exceptional pleasure – especially in the Thuringian Basin.

Wartburg Castle near Eisenach on a forested hill under blue sky. The medieval fortress features a tall tower and stone buildings.
Three cyclists with helmets and panniers riding on a paved path through green fields in the Thuringian Basin, with forest in background.
Historic tower of Creuzburg Castle rising above red-roofed buildings, surrounded by lush green trees and forested hills in Thuringia.
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Tamara Pötzelsberger
Tamara Pötzelsberger
+43 6219 60866 146
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You'll begin your journey in Eisenach, but not before taking a leisurely stroll through the charming town. Following the Werratal cycle path, you'll pass by Normannstein Castle en route to the picturesque town of Mühlhausen. On your way to Erfurt, a stop in Bad Langensalza is worthwhile, with its historic town center and stunning gardens. The following day, you'll depart Erfurt via the Krämerbrücke bridge and pedal through meadows and fields towards the city of Weimar.

While the city evokes the classical era of Goethe, Schiller, and Bach, the surrounding countryside boasts picturesque vistas and majestic castles. On day 6, the route follows the Ilm Valley Cycle Path through the Thuringian Forest to Arnstadt. Finally, on the last leg back to Eisenach, the castle ruins of the "Drei Gleichen" once again provide magnificent views.

  • The joy of plants in Bad Langensalza: The enchanting city is renowned for its picturesque gardens and parks, collectively referred to as the "Gardens of the World". Among the most notable are the Japanese Garden, the Chinese Garden, the Botanical Garden, and the Baroque Rose Garden. With such diverse options, you're truly spoiled for choice!
  • The castles and palaces in the Thuringian Basin: On your route, you'll encounter imposing walls that embody the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. While Wartburg Castle near Eisenach holds world-wide renown, don't overlook other notable sites such as Normannstein Castle, the "Drei Gleichen", and the enchanting castle complexes, each deserving of thorough exploration.
  • The culturally and historically interesting Weimar: During the German classical period in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Weimar flourished as a center of literary and artistic activity, influenced by iconic figures such as Goethe and Schiller. The city boasts a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Bauhaus and its associated sites, as well as Weimar Palace and Park.

In the Thuringian Basin, picturesque landscapes blend with a rich historical heritage - be sure to allocate ample time for stops along the stunning cycle paths. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll embark on your daily stages well-fortified, ready to tackle any hilly sections with enthusiasm. Simply leave your luggage behind, as our team will handle the transportation for you.

Picturesque landscapes intersected by mighty rivers define the regions in the heart of Germany. Here, you'll pause in historic towns and savor local wines - why not join us on one of our cycling tours in central Germany?

Wartburg Castle near Eisenach on a forested hill under blue sky. The medieval fortress features a tall tower and stone buildings.
Three cyclists with helmets and panniers riding on a paved path through green fields in the Thuringian Basin, with forest in background.
Historic tower of Creuzburg Castle rising above red-roofed buildings, surrounded by lush green trees and forested hills in Thuringia.

Itinerary at a glance

The Werra River gorge and Normannstein Castle offer stunning views, and in the Weimar region, you'll pass by romantic castle grounds. Erfurt is fascinating with its Krämerbrücke, and you can savor Thuringian cuisine in local restaurants.
Day
01

Arrival in Eisenach

You begin your cycling trip through the Thuringian basin on the Werra Valley cycle path. Through the wildly romantic gorge cut by the Werra, you cycle past the Treffurter Normannstein castle. Finally, you will cycle on flat paths to Mulhouse - the city of gates and towers. Or you can cycle a shortcut directly to Mühlhausen.

Today you touch the geographic centre of Germany on the gate to nature park Hainich. Bad Langensalza is circumvented by an almost completely preserved fortification wall and historic old town. Continue on Unstrut cyclepath into the capital Erfurt with the medieval old town

Cross the bridge Krämerbrücke which is unique in Europe, the longest bridge that is completely covered by buildings that are still lived in. Continue your tour through farmland, via Thuringian City Trail to Weimar. The great city of German cultural heritage is 1000 years old. Great names are connected with Weimar: Goethe, Schiller, Herder, Cranach, Bach, Liszt and many more.

Today you will make a detour into the wonderful Weimarer Land: You will leave Weimar in a northerly direction on the Ilm Cycle Path. Again and again you will have the opportunity to get off your bike and take a break in a shady park or a romantic castle landing stage: Tiefurt Castle - the country residence of Duchess Anna Amalia -, Kromsdorf Castle, or the Wieland Estate in Oßmannstedt are just a few of the highlights of this tour. Plan a little more time in the bell and art city of Apolda.

Following the well-maintained Ilm Valley cycle path, you will reach the Thuringian Forest and Stadtilm. In this part of the country, you can look forward to beautiful nature peppered with cultural highlights. You cycle relaxed to Arnstadt - the ‘doll town’ that turned the heads of many historical personalities. With more than 1300 years of town history, it has a lot to tell. Bring the evening of your journey through the Thuringian Basin to a relaxed close!

Today you cycle through Thuringian regin of fortresses! Of special interest is the ensemble of three fortresses “Drei Gleichen”. The legend had there once a globe lightning incinerated all three fortresses in one go. The bright flames were widely visible and left three mysterious ruins with scenic views across the Thuringian basin. Continue along the Thuringian City Trail to Esenach.

Day
08

Departure or extension

Traditional Japanese-style wooden pavilion with dark red columns beside a tranquil pond in Bad Langensalza's Japanese Garden.
Erfurt Cathedral Square with colorful half-timbered houses, red-tiled roofs, and a church tower with green spire. Trees line the square.
Three cyclists riding on a paved path through green landscape with a large tree in Thuringian Basin under clear blue sky.
White two-story garden house with gray roof and wooden fence in Park an der Ilm, Weimar. Historic building surrounded by green trees and lawn.
Panoramic view of Drei Gleichen castle ruins on a forested hill above a village, with rolling fields and distant mountains in Thuringia.
Golden statue of St. George slaying dragon atop fountain in Eisenach market square, with colorful half-timbered houses and clock tower.

Difficulty Level

Medium

Usually well-developed cycle paths, or little frequented side roads, with hilly sections. Only at the entrances and exits of the townships can traffic be expected to increase. Mostly flat, partly hilly on days two and six.

Prices & Dates

Prices per person in EUR

Our rental bikes

The different types of rental bikes at a glance

Men's Rental Bike - Symbol photo
Men's bike

High-quality men's touring bike with classic diamond frame

Available gear options can be found in the price table

Unisex Rental Bike - Symbol photo
Unisex bike

High-quality unisex touring bike with comfortable low entry

Available gear options can be found in the price table

E-Bike rental bike - Symbol photo
Unisex Electro bike

High-quality unisex electric bike with comfortable low entry

Services & Information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation in 3***- and 4****-hotels and inns
  • Breakfast
  • Luggage transfer
  • Travel documents package incl. GPS-data and route book, 1x per room
  • Service hotline

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Eisenach train station
  • Erfurt/Weimar airport
  • Private parking spaces, costs approx. EUR 5 per day, public parking garage, costs approx. EUR 11 per day

Things to note

  • Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!
  • This tour is a partner tour.
Tamara Pötzelsberger

"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"

Tamara Pötzelsberger
Travel Specialist
One call to vacation bliss
+43 6219 60866 146
Monday - Thursday: 9.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Friday: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
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