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Weimar On Foot: Walks and Hikes Around the City
Discover Weimar – On foot through history, culture, and nature
Weimar is small – but big when it comes to culture and history. The city in Thuringia is a wonderful place to explore on foot. From classics such as the Bauhaus Museum to the idyllic Ilm Park, everything is close by. Whether you fancy a compact city tour, a relaxed walk through nature or historical insights – here you will find the best ways to discover Weimar on foot.
Old Town tour: Historical Weimar on short routes
Start your tour at Goetheplatz, right in the centre of the city. From here, you can reach some of Weimar's most important sights on foot in just a few minutes.
Stops on this tour:
- Schillerhaus Weimar: This is where the famous poet Friedrich Schiller lived – a must-see for literature fans.
- Bauhaus Museum Weimar: Modernity meets history – the Bauhaus was founded in Weimar in 1919.
- Market square: With the Cranach House, the Hotel Elephant and the historic town hall.
- Weimar City Palace: An imposing building with an art collection and direct access to the Ilm Park.
Duration: approx. 1-1.5 hours
Length: approx. 2.5 km
Tip: Perfect for getting to know each other for the first time – particularly suitable for arrival afternoons.
Ilmpark walk: culture meets nature
The Ilm Park, a green oasis with picturesque paths along the River Ilm, begins directly behind the City Palace.
Highlights of this route:
- Goethe's garden house: the poet's retreat in the centre of the park.
- Roman House: Classicist architecture with a view of the river.
- Shakespeare monument: Hidden among the trees – a real insider tip for photos.
- Star Bridge & Park Cave: pure romance.
Duration: approx. 1.5-2 hours
Length: approx. 3 km
Tip: Ideal for spring and autumn – many benches invite you to linger.
From the city centre to the Bauhaus University: Architecture and views
This route combines cultural highlights with a view of modernity.
Stops:
- Bauhaus Museum (if not yet visited)
- Main building of the Bauhaus University: Architectural masterpiece.
- Haus am Horn: The first Bauhaus model house – a forerunner of modern living.
- View over the city: The hill around the Haus am Horn offers great views, especially at sunset.
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Length: approx. 3.5 km
Tip: Particularly atmospheric in the golden evening light.
Evening walk through inner courtyards & old town alleyways
If you explore Weimar in the evening, you will experience a very special atmosphere. The city becomes quieter, the facades glow in the lantern light.
Recommendation:
- Take a stroll through the inner courtyards around Jakobstraße, the Duchess Anna Amalia Library or Kegelgasse.
- Enjoy a beer or a glass of wine in one of the student pubs or wine bars in the Old Town – e.g. in the ‘Weinbar Weimar’ or the ‘36 Pho Co’.
Tip: This walk is perfect after dinner or as a prelude to an evening in a pub.
FAQ – Exploring Weimar on foot
How many days do you need for Weimar?
One day is enough for a first impression. If you want to delve deeper, it's better to plan 2-3 days.
Is Weimar really completely within walking distance?
Yes, the most important sights are within a radius of around 2 kilometres. Perfect for walking tours.
When is the best time for a walk through Weimar?
Spring and autumn are ideal. The city is particularly atmospheric during the Onion Market in October – one of the oldest folk festivals in Germany.
Which sights are a must-see?
The Bauhaus Museum, the Schiller House, the Ilm Park with Goethe's Garden House and the City Palace are all must-sees.
Weimar is waiting – and you only require your feet!
Weimar is made for city walks. Culture, nature, and history are all in proximity here. Whether you follow a literary trail, explore architectural highlights or simply stroll through the alleyways of the old town – you will experience history at every turn.
Our tip: Start directly from the a&o Hostel Weimar – central, convenient and the ideal starting point for all walks.
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