Weimar is a city of firsts. It was the birthplace of the Bauhaus movement, the first German republic and the European Cultural Capital in 1999. The cityscape is a mix of old and new, with many well-preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries sitting alongside contemporary structures. The heart of the city is the attractive Marktplatz, ringed by grand churches and townhouses. The adjacent pedestrianised streets are home to a wealth of boutiques, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the city’s many parks, including the sprawling Goethepark, or take a walk or bike ride along the Ilm River. Weimar is also a great base for exploring the surrounding Thuringian Forest.