Map of Ilmenau, Germany

🌲 What to do in Ilmenau

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and rich history of Ilmenau with an array of exciting activities suitable for all interests and budgets.

• Best Budget Activity in Ilmenau:

  Hiking in the Thuringian Forest: Explore the stunning trails of the Thuringian Forest, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings perfect for nature lovers.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Ilmenau:

  Visit to Kickelhahn Mountain: Take a leisurely hike to Kickelhahn Mountain, enjoy panoramic views from the summit, and visit Goethe's Hut - a historical gem steeped in culture.

• Best Luxury Activity in Ilmenau:

  Relax at the Kurpark Spa: Treat yourself to a day of pampering at Kurpark Spa, where you can unwind in luxurious pools, saunas, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments.

🍽️ Where to eat in Ilmenau

In Ilmenau, indulge in a culinary adventure with a variety of traditional Thuringian dishes and international flavors. Don't miss out on trying the famous Thuringian bratwurst and hearty potato dumplings!

• Best Budget Restaurant in Ilmenau:

  Zum Waldkater•$$:

  Traditional German cuisine with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Ilmenau:

  Zur alten Försterei•$$$:

  Authentic Thuringian dishes with a focus on local ingredients

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Ilmenau:

  Schindler's Rosengarten•$$$$:

  Fine dining experience with a fusion of German and international cuisines

• Best Budget Bar in Ilmenau:

  Lala Bar•$:

  Try their signature cocktail - Lala's Delight

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Ilmenau:

  Atrium Bar•$$:

  Enjoy a refreshing local craft beer paired with their cheese platter

• Best Luxury Bar in Ilmenau:

  Baroque Lounge•$$$:

  Indulge in a fancy champagne cocktail or premium wine selection

🏰 What to see in Ilmenau

Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Ilmenau by exploring its must-visit landmarks that offer a glimpse into the town's past and present.

• Name: St. Jakobus Church

  A stunning Gothic-style church dating back to the 15th century, showcasing intricate stained-glass windows and impressive architectural details.

• GoetheStadtMuseum

  Immerse yourself in Ilmenau's history at this museum dedicated to Goethe and the town's cultural heritage, featuring fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

• Kickelhahn Tower

  Ascend this observation tower on Kickelhahn Mountain for panoramic views of Ilmenau and the Thuringian Forest, offering a picturesque backdrop for memorable photographs.

• Ilmenau Town Hall

  Admire the elegant facade of the Town Hall, a prominent landmark in Ilmenau's market square, known for its Renaissance architecture and historical significance.

• Botanischer Garten

  Explore the Botanical Garden, a serene oasis brimming with a diverse collection of plant species, picturesque pathways, and tranquil ponds, perfect for a peaceful stroll or nature photography.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Ilmenau

Experience a delightful shopping spree in Ilmenau, where a diverse range of shops and boutiques cater to every budget and style, making it a shopping haven for visitors.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Ilmenau:

  Ilmenau Wochenmarkt (Weekly Market): Explore the bustling weekly market in Ilmenau offering fresh produce, local delicacies, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Ilmenau:

  Ilmenauer Einkaufsstraße (Shopping Street): Wander along Ilmenau's vibrant shopping street lined with quaint shops, boutiques, and specialty stores, where you can find trendy fashion items, accessories, and gifts.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Ilmenau:

  Am Markt (Market Square): Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience at Market Square, home to upscale boutiques, designer stores, and high-end shops offering premium fashion, jewelry, and lifestyle products.

🚌 Getting Around Ilmenau 🚲

• Public Transport

  In Ilmenau, public transportation is primarily served by buses and trains. The local bus network is operated by IVB (Ilmenauer Verkehrsbetriebe) and offers convenient routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. Bus tickets can be purchased onboard or at designated ticket machines. The schedules are reliable and frequent, making it easy to get around Ilmenau. The price for a single bus ticket is around €2.50.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main train station in Ilmenau is Ilmenau Hauptbahnhof, offering connections to major cities in Germany. The closest airports to Ilmenau are Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF), approximately 50 km away, and Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ), around 150 km away. For bus travelers, Ilmenau has a centrally located bus terminal with connections to various destinations.

• 🚗 Rental Services

  For those looking for flexibility in transportation, car rental services are available in Ilmenau. Companies like Sixt and Europcar offer a range of vehicles at competitive prices. Daily rental rates start from €30, and options include compact cars, SUVs, and more. Additionally, biking is a popular way to explore Ilmenau. Bike rentals can be found at local shops like Fahrrad Börse Ilmenau, with rates starting from €10 per day for a basic bicycle.