Egapark Erfurt: Flowers, garden art, and recreational fun since 1961

Garden art with history

The egapark Erfurt is a place steeped in history. The international horticultural exhibition opened in 1961 on the site where the Cyriaksburg citadel once stood. Since then, the grounds have developed into one of Germany's most important parks. Today, historical structures are combined with modern garden art: wide sightlines, themed gardens, and Europe's largest flower bed characterize the landscape. What makes it special is that egapark is inspiring in every season. In spring with a colorful abundance of flowers, in summer with lush perennials, in autumn with bright dahlias, and in winter with special events and clear garden structures that are effective even without flowers.

Flowering splendor and discovery tours

When you enter egapark, you are greeted by a play of colors right at the entrance: Europe's largest ornamental flower bed unfolds over 6,000 m², a mosaic of thousands of flowers that changes with the seasons. Around the huge flower bed, more than 20 lovingly designed themed gardens invite you to explore. In the Japanese garden with its splashing water features, in the fragrant rose garden, and among the exotic plants in the tropical house, you will experience how creatively garden art can be staged: from delicate bonsai to lush roses. The former fortress tower of the oldest surviving part of the Cyriaksburg citadel offers you a fantastic view over the entire park landscape.

Nature experience and fun learning

An absolute highlight, not only in rainy weather, is Danakil, the unique desert and jungle house in egapark. Under one roof, you will encounter two completely contrasting climate zones: tropical humid rainforest landscape on one side and dry desert world on the other. In between, you will discover fascinating animals and plants from both worlds: impressive cacti and succulents grow in the desert section, while next door in the jungle, lianas hang and water drips from above. In Danakil, you will encounter meerkats, giant spiders, ants, bats, and colorful tropical butterflies. A total of over 90 animal species and 890 plant species live here! The 83-meter-long building impressively shows how life forms cope with extreme dryness or lush humidity. A visit to Danakil is a journey around the world for all the senses.

There is also plenty of knowledge to discover in a playful way outside the tropical house. The egapark is home to a knowledge forest with interactive stations and a green adventure trail that creatively conveys the topics of nature, the environment, and gardening. In the old fortress building of Cyriaksburg, the German Horticultural Museum also awaits with exciting exhibitions on the history of horticulture and the secrets of the plant world. Here, visitors of all ages can marvel and learn through hands-on activities. Speaking of all age groups: the entire park is barrier-free, so strollers and wheelchairs can roll effortlessly.

Tip: Be sure to check out the egapark's calendar of events! Special events take place throughout the year, from the blossoming spring market to the atmospheric festival of lights and the creative pumpkin exhibition in autumn. Guided tours are also offered regularly, allowing you to delve even deeper into this green oasis.

Fun and games for budding gardeners

Families take note: egapark is a paradise for children! Thuringia's largest playground, the “GärtnerReich” (Gardener's Kingdom), awaits you. Children (and the young at heart) can play and romp to their hearts' content on 35,000 m². And what's special is that all the playground equipment revolves around gardening and nature. From the fun “Dahlienschwindel” carousel to the ‘Madenschaukel’ seesaw and the slide in the giant “Erdbeerkaktus” – there's plenty of room for imagination here. In summer, there are also water basins for splashing around, a bouncy cushion in the shape of a broad bean, and a small farm with animals for romping around and exploring. In the GärtnerReich, young gardeners can give free rein to their creativity and learn a thing or two about plants and animals along the way. And in winter? Even then, a trip is worthwhile: families can visit the Danakil House or the German Horticultural Museum regardless of the weather and go on a discovery tour together.

Culinary break between plants

The egapark also caters for your physical well-being. Several restaurants invite you to take a break and recharge your batteries. In the café in the rotunda, you can fortify yourself with hearty dishes or coffee and cake, outside on the sunny terrace when the weather is good. The Danakil Restaurant, located directly in the tropical house, offers small snacks and refreshments in a tropical atmosphere. And in the “Caponniere” at the observation tower, regional specialties and sweet treats await you.

Take the train to the garden paradise

The Franken-Thüringen-Express will take you to Erfurt Central Station. Since 2024, this regional express train has been running directly from Franconia to Erfurt and, with speeds of up to 190 km/h, is one of the fastest in Germany. From Erfurt Central Station, tram line 2 (towards P+R Messe) will take you directly to the “egapark” stop in just under 15 minutes. It couldn't be more convenient.