Its medieval heart is one of the best-preserved anywhere in Germany. Even today, Erfurt's wealthy past is reflected in its lovingly restored Renaissance buildings, half-timbered houses, churches, abbeys and the remarkable Merchants' Bridge (Krämerbrücke).

Erfurt is Thuringia's largest city. It has one of the best-preserved medieval town centres in Germany, a delightful blend of wealthy patrician townhouses and fine half-timbered buildings. One of Erfurt's most distinctive sights is the Merchants' Bridge, the longest bridge in Europe to have houses along its entire length.

Erfurt has a number of very special museums, including the German Horticultural Museum, the Thuringian Folk Museum and the Municipal Museum. Art and crafts are the preserve of the Angermuseum.