Cycling day trip from Gotha to Erfurt

If you’re looking for a pleasant ride through northern Thuringia, the route from historic Gotha to the vibrant city of Erfurt is a great pick! Covering just under 44 km, it’s a comfortable stretch for a half-day excursion. You’ll start in Gotha, famous for its grand Friedenstein Castle—one of the earliest Baroque palaces in Germany—before pedaling east towards the state capital.

The path swings through rolling countryside, with only mild climbs and even more (gentle) descents, so you’ll glide along without too much effort. About 90% of the ride is on paved surfaces, mostly smooth asphalt and a bit of concrete, perfect for road bikes or touring tires. There’s a nice mix of quiet farm roads and broad tracks, so you won’t have to compete with much traffic. Expect plenty of rural scenery and maybe even a castle or two along the way.

At the end, you’ll roll into Erfurt’s medieval heart, complete with the stunning cathedral and lively city squares—ideal for a well-earned coffee or ice cream. All in all, it’s a relaxed ride connecting two of Thuringia’s best towns!