Located in the southern part of Thuringia, Germany – Meiningen is a city of about 25,000 people, and the city is popularly known for the role it played in the development of opera performance in Germany during the 19th century.
There are so many breathtaking, unique, and historic landmarks, to discover in Meiningen.
One of the most popular attractions in Meiningen is the Meiningen Court Theatre.
This theater was built in the 19th century, and it is considered to be one of the oldest and most beautiful theaters in Germany.
So in this Meiningen travel guide, we are going to discuss in detail what to do in Meiningen, from the most popular spots in the city to tours that will help you see it all with ease and at once!
Did we miss any of the best places to visit in Meiningen?
If you know of any unique attraction that we did not mention, then let us know in the comment section
Let’s go!
1. Visit the Elisabethenburg Palace
Visiting the Elisabethenburg Palace is one of the best things to do in Meiningen.
This palace was built by Bernhard I, Duke of Saxe-Meiningen in the late part of the 16th century (1682- 1692) and during its active years, it served as the home of the Dukes of Saxe-Meiningen.
In the 19th century, the castle was renovated, and some changes were made, and one of the notable renovations was the addition of a new Italian marble fountain and rustic windows.
Nowadays, this castle serves as a popular tourist attraction in Meiningen.
Inside this castle, you will find some materials, artworks, and musical equipment that showcases the history of Meiningen.
One of my favorite aspects of this castle is the upper floor, where paintings, sculptures, and artworks from famous artists like Lucas Cranach the Elder, Anton Graff, and Adolph Menzel are kept.
You will also find some of the musical instruments like the Renaissance lutes and Baroque harpsichords which were used in the 17th century here.
2. Check Out The Lichtenburg Castle Ruins
One of the most underrated attractions in Meiningen is the Lichtenburg Castle Ruins.
The Litchenburg castle is one of the most beautiful historical landmarks I’ve seen in Germany, and it is located in the nearby town of Kaltennordheim, a 30mins drive away from Meiningen.
The castle was built in the 12th century and during its active years, it served as a fortress.
Nowadays, this place is a popular tourist attraction, and you can freely explore different parts of the castle like arches and towers.
One of my favorite parts of this museum is the tower, and it costs less than 3 Euros to climb.
When you climb the tower, you have a stunning and beautiful all-around view of the surrounding area.
There’s also an onsite restaurant that serves delicious dishes at a very affordable price.
3. Relax At The Rohrer Stirn Leisure Center
When your legs get tired from touring walking and touring different parts of Meiningen, you might want to relax.
And the best relaxation center I have seen in Meiningen is the Rohrer Stirn, this place offers everything your heart desires.
There are a lot of leisure facilities here including a children’s pool, 25 meters indoor swimming pool, 50 meters outdoor swimming pool, sunbathing areas with free sun loungers by the pool, a spa, and a snack bar
There is also onsite free parking and if you have an electric vehicle (e.g. Tesla) there is a charging station where you can charge it.
Everything is neat and clean. Entry to the outdoor pool currently cost €3 for adults.
4. Visit The Theatermuseum
Another top tourist destination in Meiningen that is worth a visit is the Theatermuseum.
This museum is mainly focused on preserving the history of theater and performing arts in Meiningen since this city was a popular destination for theatrical production in the 19th and 20th centuries.
There are so many things you can learn from visiting this museum.
For example, you learn more about how this town became known as a theater city and the construction of sets, and the associated type of theater as we know it today.
Inside the Theatermusem you will find a wide range of materials like costumes, set designs, photographs, and other types of equipment that were used in theater performances in the 19th century
If you are a fan of stage performance, then I suggest you add this place to your must-see list.
5. Party At The Best Nightclubs In Town
If you are someone who loves to go out, then partying at a club is one of the things I suggest you do whenever you visit a city.
As you prepare to have fun in the evening, take time to check out some of the top clubs in the city – but sometimes is never an easy task to choose.
One of the clubs I suggest you check out is Deja Vu Cocktailbar-Tanzbar-Club.
Everything about this place is okay.
The building is well furnished, drinks are affordable, the staff is super friendly and accommodating, and the music was wonderful.
6. Go On A Bike Tour Along The Werra River
The Werra River is about 300 km long, and it starts at Eisfeld in southern Thuringia and pours into river Fulda in Hann.
You will find so many bike routes that run along the Werra River, one of my favorite routes is the Werratal-Radweg.
Werratal-Radweg is a 300-kilometer bike trail that starts from the Thuringian Forest and ends at the city of Hannoversch Münden.
Along the biking tour, you can stop by to admire some historic landmarks and natural attractions.
One popular stop is the town of Bad Salzungen, which is popularly known for its spa culture and therapeutic salt baths.
I suggest you only participate in this activity if you are a good cyclist and can ride for long distances without getting exhausted.
7. Visit The Meiningen Steam Locomotive Works
If you want to see a train get repaired, or if you would love to learn more about how steam trains work, then add this place to your bucket list.
Guided tours are held on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of every month from 10:00 and the entry fee is 5 euros.
8. Take A Day Trip To Eisenach
One of the things I love to do whenever I find myself in a place is to go on a day trip to a nearby city.
Day trips usually offer unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else, and if you’re in Meiningen the city I suggest you check out is Eisenach.
Eisenach is just a 1-hour drive away from Meiningen, and it is popularly known as the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the best composers in the world.
It is also home to one of the most beautiful UNESCO heritage sites, the Wartburg Castle which was built in the 11th century
Many famous figures, like Martin Luther, the man who translated the New Testament of the Bible into German, lived in this castle.
So if you would like to take a day trip, add this town to your list.
9. Watch A Theater Performance At Meiningen Court Theatre
If you visit and then go back without watching a performance at this theater, then you missed out.
From what I’ve seen, all I can say is wow!
The Meininger Staatstheater, is one of the most famous and beautiful theaters in Germany and a must-visit destination for anybody that loves live performances.
Everything about this place is wonderful, the sitting arrangement is superb – you can see the people that are performing regardless of where you sit.
The sound and lighting is great too.
Regardless of what your taste is, there is something for you.
Every year, operas, concerts, dramas, chamber plays, stage balls, and summer festivals are hosted here.
The tickets are very affordable too(€10 -.€15).
During the breaks, you can enjoy a cocktail or a sparkling wine.
There is also onsite parking available and it is, free of charge.
If you plan to visit here, then I suggest you purchase a ticket ahead of time, because the performances often sell out quickly.
10. Have a Picnic At Englischer Garten, Meiningen
After checking out the museums and filling your brain with history lessons, a breath of fresh air is well-deserved, and this park is a great place to soak up some sunshine and explore Meiningen’s love affair with parks!
Sprawling across more than 100 hectares, it features a large lake, pedal-taxi rentals, and plenty of green space for picnics.
There is also a range of guided tours and walks through the park for anyone keen to learn a little more about the area.
Where To Stay In Meiningen?
There are a lot of world-class hotels, BBQs, and Inn in Meiningen like the Hotel im Kaiserpark and AltstadtHotel
Some factors like budget and location might affect where you will stay.
However, regardless of your price or location, there is always something for you.
With the help of Booking.com, a metasearch engine that compares all the internet’s hotel deals, you can find different hotels in Meiningen that suit you.
Even if you don’t book through that site, it’s a wonderful way to explore the possibilities on offer and learn about the most popular suburbs and districts to stay in.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a lot of fun things to do in Meiningen, from partying to sightseeing to going on outdoor adventures.
This place is definitely one of the best places cities to visit in Thuringia, Germany.
So don’t miss another moment… this fun-filled city is ready to greet you!