Things to do in Thuringian Forest
Discover the best attractions and experiences Thuringian Forest has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the region's storied past through castles, fortifications, and historic sites carved into the Thuringian Forest.
Wartburg Castle (Eisenach)
A UNESCO-listed fortress overlooking Eisenach, famous for its medieval halls and Luther’s stay.
Buchenwald Memorial
Former Nazi concentration camp turned memorial and museum near Weimar.
Georgenkirche (Eisenach)
Historic church reflecting Eisenach's religious and cultural heritage.
Museums
Dive into local history, culture, and the forest’s story in intimate regional museums.
Buchenwald Memorial Museum
Exhibitions detailing the camp's history and the region's WWII era.
Schmalkalden Local History Museum
Gives insight into life in a historic Thuringian town and its crafts.
Thuringian Forest Museum, Tambach-Döhlen
Exhibits about forest life, timber industry and regional natural history.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual landmarks that dot the forest towns and valleys.
Georgenkirche (Eisenach)
Historic church reflecting Eisenach's religious heritage.
St. Kilian's Church, Meiningen
Traditional parish church with local church history.
National & Theme Parks
Protected landscapes and nature reserves that showcase the forest’s beauty.
Naturpark Thüringer Wald
A vast nature park that encompasses most of the Thuringian Forest.
Naturpark Kyffhäuser
Protected area featuring hills, historic ruins, and scenic trails.
Neighborhoods
Quaint towns and gateways to forest trails that make great bases.
Oberhof
Popular winter sports resort with forest trails and events.
Ilmenau
University town with scenic hills and starting points for hikes.
Zella-Mehlis
Mountain town known for proximity to hiking routes.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy nature and free viewpoints around the forest.
Rennsteig Trail Walk
Hike a portion of the famous Rennsteig in the forest.
Großer Inselsberg Viewpoint
Climb for panoramic views of the Thuringian countryside.
Forest Walks in Oberhof
Self-guided strolls through well-marked forest trails.
Gastronomy
Savor traditional Thuringian flavors in rustic settings.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Classic Thuringian sausage grilled to perfection.
Thüringer Klöße (Potato Dumplings)
A staple side dish often served with hearty stews.
Thuringian Goulash
Rich, comforting stew reflecting regional cooking.
Nightlife
After-dusk options in forest towns and resorts.
Oberhof Pub Culture
Local pubs and late-evening spots in the resort town.
Meiningen Old Town Bars
Historic town center with traditional taverns.
Entertainment
Theatres and cultural venues offering shows and performances.
Meininger Staatstheater
Regional theatre with plays and performances.
Theater in Suhl
Local stage for concerts and performances.
Sports
Sports venues and activities in the forest's backdrop.
Oberhof Biathlon Arena
World-class biathlon venue with events and tours.
Inselsberg Tower & Summit
Prominent summit with scenic views and surrounding trails.
Off the Track
Unforgettable experiences off the beaten path.
Rennsteig Trail Segment
Stretch of the famed hiking trail for a rugged day.
Inselsberg Summit Walk
Steep climbs rewarded with sweeping forest views.