- Must visit
Old Synagogue Museum
Museum in the former synagogue with the famous Erfurt Treasure. It offers rare insight into medieval Jewish life and heritage.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Frankfurt to Erfurt
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt to Erfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $25.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$54 Average price | $29 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 57m Average total duration 6h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Frankfurt to Erfurt is a bus with an average price of $29 (€24).
This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt to Erfurt:
A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt to Erfurt costing on average $54 (€44).
The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt to Erfurt is by train with an average journey time of 2h 13m.
Other travel options to Erfurt take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Frankfurt and Erfurt including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt to Erfurt among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 47m sooner (2h 13m by train vs 3h 0m by car). Tickets start at around $54 (€44) compared to roughly $46 (€37) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with FlixTrain GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt to Erfurt by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Frankfurt to Erfurt
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
PriceComfortSpeedDisadvantages
CleanlinessServicePunctualityAll in all, I am very happy with my journey from Frankfurt to Erfurt. The ticket was good value and the ICE was comfortable. Unfortunately, the train was a bit dirty and the conductor a bit unfriendly. We were also a little late at our destination. All in all, I would book the trip again.
Advantages
QuickCleanOn timeDisadvantages
No wifiI travelled second class on the ICE 1537 from Frankfurt to Erfurt. It was a pleasant journey without delays. I personally found the journey time of just under 2 hours quite short. The train was tidy and clean, and it was a relatively new train. The seats were comfortable and more ergonomic. I found it a pity that the wifi was not available for unknown reasons. Otherwise, I can recommend this connection.
Advantages
ReservationWIFIDisadvantages
NoneThe train runs on time, the seats are comfortable and the staff are friendly. We made our reservation online without any problems. You also have free wifi in second class and a power socket at your seat. The almost 2.5-hour journey passes quickly. The train goes straight there, so you don't have to change trains again. There is also an on-board restaurant on the train for a snack in between.
The compartments were clean, but a roll of toilet paper could have been provided in the toilets.
Advantages
Connection was punctualDisadvantages
The train was very fullThe train was quite full, but wifi worked quite well.
I hadn't reserved a seat, but I didn't have to stand. Due to the number of passengers, the train was quite full and the toilet was only reasonably clean.
The train ran on schedule and the staff were nice. I use this connection regularly as I don't have to change trains.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Frankfurt to Erfurt
GermanyGermany
Trains from Frankfurt to Erfurt run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.
There are 25 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:37, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 2h 6m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 119 miles (192 km) |
Average train duration 2h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 25 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 3:37 AM |
Last train 10:15 PM |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: FlixTrain GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Frankfurt to Erfurt trainsFlixTrain GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Frankfurt and Erfurt from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
FlixTrain GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 9m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
FlixTrain GmbH frequency
2 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
23 a day
Complete guide to Erfurt
Things to do in Erfurt
Discover the best of Erfurt — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Erfurt trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle Erfurt
Major art museum in a former packing warehouse. It presents modern and contemporary exhibitions in one of Erfurt’s most celebrated cultural venues.
- Recommended
Erfurt City Museum
City museum tracing Erfurt’s history from medieval trade to modern times. A strong introduction to the city before exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Fischmarkt
Historic main square with Gothic town hall, colorful houses, and frequent events. It is one of the best places to feel Erfurt’s civic heart.
- Must visit
Erfurt Old Town
Historic old-town area of lanes, bridges, and merchant houses. Best explored without a plan, it captures Erfurt’s preserved medieval charm.
- Recommended
Anger
Elegant shopping boulevard and tram hub with historic facades. It is ideal for people-watching and understanding the city’s commercial center.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringian grilled sausage, seasoned with marjoram and grilled over charcoal. It is Erfurt's signature street food and a protected regional specialty.
- Vegetarian
Zwiebelkuchen
A rustic onion tart with a savory filling of onions, eggs, and cream, often enjoyed in autumn with new wine in Thuringia.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
Small potato dumplings, often served with roast dishes and gravy. They are a classic Thuringian side and a staple of local home cooking.
Clara - Restaurant im Kaisersaal
Historic fine dining restaurant in the old town, known for refined Thuringian and German cuisine in an elegant, traditional setting.
Gasthaus Feuerkugel
Traditional inn near the cathedral, popular for Thuringian classics, local beer, and a warm tavern atmosphere.
Altstadtkneipe No. 1 Zum Güldenen Rade
Well-known brewery restaurant serving house beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic brewpub setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: lodging, meals, and transit are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but pricier than many smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip cafes by rounding up and taxis by rounding up or about 10% for good service.
EVA mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €6.20
To the city center
Erfurt Hbf -> Domplatz, Erfurt
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding if they are not pre-printed with the time.
- Contactless card payment is available in many ticket machines, but onboard payment options can vary by vehicle.
FAQs: Trains from Frankfurt to Erfurt
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt to Erfurt by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Erfurt, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Frankfurt to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $54 (€44).
The train from Frankfurt to Erfurt takes 2h 6m and runs 25 per day.
The distance by train from Frankfurt to Erfurt is 119 miles (192 km).
The first train from Frankfurt to Erfurt leaves at 3:37 AM.
The last train from Frankfurt to Erfurt leaves at 10:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Frankfurt to Erfurt.
Yes, there is a direct train from Frankfurt to Erfurt. This service operates 25 times per day, provided by FlixTrain GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt to Erfurt.
The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt to Erfurt is by train, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Frankfurt to Erfurt offers scenic views of the German countryside, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming towns along the route, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
A day trip from Frankfurt to Erfurt is not feasible since the journey takes 2h 6m. However, there are 12 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 119 miles (192 km).
To fully explore Erfurt's historical sites, vibrant culture, and local cuisine, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt to Erfurt.
Erfurt is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Erfurt include Berlin, Leipzig, Nuremberg, Eisenach, Halle.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt to Erfurt among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Erfurt, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial guides may occur, so it’s advisable to use authorized services. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated streets at night for a safer experience.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Frankfurt to Erfurt
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erfurt and Frankfurt
Most popular train connections to Erfurt
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