Arriving
For those flying, as Weimar is almost equidistant between Berlin and Frankfurt, those are usually the best options of where to find flights to. Both have decent train connections. But be sure to use the main Frankfurt airport (FRA) as Frankfurt Hahn is one of those typical Ryanair middle of nowhere spots.
If planning to get the train, Frankfurt is slightly easier and quicker as you can get an express train directly from the airport to Erfurt, Weimar’s neighbouring city. Whereas with Berlin, you have to change trains at least once to get the train to Erfurt. From Erfurt it is a regular 15 minute train to Weimar.
Also, if making the final leg by train, make sure you book as far in advance as possible. Deutsche Bahn raise their prices the closer to the travel date you book.
Driving from either Frankfurt or Berlin is roughly 2.5-3 hours.
A closer option, but trickier to get flights to is Leipzig. You can get from Leipzig to Weimar in about an hour both by car or train.
Another option would be to go through Prague. This would be a great option for those looking to make the most of an excuse to get away, and can offer really cheap flights. Although the train connections can be a pain (roughly 6 hours by train or 3.5 drive), it gives you a chance to have a little tour of East German cities on your way to or from Weimar.
The final option would be Munich (not shown on Map), it is a little further away than the previous 4, and has a much longer train connection as all express trains from Munich to Erfurt have to go via Frankfurt, doubling the time. Although as with Prague it is a similar length drive, it can be a good option for those wanting to explore other parts, and can sometimes offer the best flight options.
If you require any information for other means of arriving (train, bus, compass bearings…..) we are always here to help with suggestions.
Where to stay
Weimar is a hugely historic and cultural town, so fortunately there are plenty of hotels to choose from.
First of all through the venue owners, the EJBW, we have been given access to some accommodation that is ideal for those wanting to keep it basic and a little cheaper. If you are interested in this you can arrange it through us.
A budget hotel option would be the Watzdorfer Geleitschenke.
The middle ground choice would be the Hotel am Frauenplan, Amalienhof or the Schillerhof.
If you are after a little more luxurious a location you can go for the Hotel Elephant, a beautiful hotel with a restaurant pushing for a Michelin star and was once the place that Poets and Noblemen would stay.
There are also lots of holiday apartments to rent around the town as well as a couple of B&Bs (Pension in German).
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