Erlangen combines centuries of academic excellence with a passion for cutting-edge research, technology and innovation. Stroll around the historic university district and get a feel for student life at one of the oldest and most prestigious campuses in Germany. Beautiful parks and gardens, along with a scenic setting on the Regnitz River, add to the picturesque atmosphere.
Things to do in Erlangen
Walk around the Old Town and admire handsome Baroque architecture and half-timbered houses. The Town Hall stands proudly over Marktplatz and houses a fantastic local history museum. Learn about everything from the founding of the university in the 1700s to the Industrial Age and 21st-century tech revolution.
Erlangen is home to Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany. Walk around the historic campus and admire landmarks like the Baroque-style Kollegienhaus and ivy-covered Old University Library. Tree-filled Schlossgarten is a beautiful green space loved by students. Stroll along flower-lined paths and relax on sprawling green lawns.
Botanical Garden Erlangen is a two-hectare sanctuary filled with plants from around the world. It’s maintained by the university and features themed gardens inspired by everything from tropical climates to alpine ecosystems. Explore the cactus greenhouse, see plants that thrive in the Arctic tundra biome and learn about medicinal herbs used since medieval times.
From trendy student cafes to rustic taverns, Erlangen offers a wide range of culinary experiences. Settle into a cosy dining room and order Franconian specialties like Nuremberg minced pork sausages and “krenfleisch” boiled beef topped with horseradish. Wash it all down with a glass of Franconian beer.
Getting around Erlangen
Erlangen is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. The town is in Bavaria, 2.5 hours from Frankfurt by car or train. Nuremberg is a 25-minute drive away and 15 minutes by train. Frankfurt International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away.