A historic building with ornate architecture, a cobblestone street, and a tree-lined sidewalk.

$81 Cheap Flights to Ilmenau

Popular airlines to Ilmenau

How much is the cheapest flight to Ilmenau?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $81 for one-way flights and $308 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Pegasus Airlines
Involatus
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SunExpress

What you need to know for your flight to Ilmenau

Flights to Ilmenau at a glance

Traveling to Ilmenau is easy—select from both full-service and budget airlines, compare travel times, and choose the option that aligns with your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Ilmenau: Nuremberg Airport (NUE)
  • Flights per week: 150+ flights arriving at Ilmenau airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Ilmenau: around 10+ carriers

Popular airport near Ilmenau

Ilmenau is a charming city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in stunning scenery. Visitors are drawn to its eco-friendly atmosphere, romantic spots, and abundant outdoor activities. The city is conveniently accessible via a major airport.

  • Nuremberg Airport (NUE): Situated in Middle Franconia, Bavaria, approximately 83 miles from Ilmenau, this airport offers a mix of domestic and international flights, serving about 1 domestic city and 20 international locales. Travelers can opt for an upgrade to business class for enhanced comfort, contingent on the airlines and routes. Notable carriers operating at this airport include Lufthansa, United, and Ryanair.

Top routes to Ilmenau

  • London (LHR/STN) to Ilmenau (NUE), with one-way fares starting at around $30
  • Washington (IAD) to Ilmenau (NUE), with one-way airfare from around $340
  • Boston (BOS) to Ilmenau (NUE), with one-way tickets available from around $270
  • New York (JFK) to Ilmenau (NUE), with one-way flights starting at around $270
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Ilmenau (NUE), with one-way airfare from around $350

Cheapest routes to Ilmenau

  • London (LHR/STN) to Ilmenau (NUE), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
  • Barcelona (BCN) to Ilmenau (NUE), with low one-way fares from around $85
  • Frankfurt (FRA) to Ilmenau (NUE), with affordable one-way prices from around $95
  • Madrid (MAD) to Ilmenau (NUE), with cheap one-way fares from around $100
  • Paris (CDG) to Ilmenau (NUE), with affordable one-way prices from around $130

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Ilmenau

  • Lufthansa: Operating flights to Nuremberg Airport (NUE), Lufthansa represents about 30% of the arrivals in Ilmenau. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of roughly $440.
  • United: With services to Nuremberg Airport (NUE), United accounts for approximately 21% of the arrivals to Ilmenau. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $610.
  • Delta: This airline also flies to Nuremberg Airport (NUE) and makes up about 13% of arrivals in Ilmenau. Average one-way fares are around $510.
  • Ryanair: Offering flights to Nuremberg Airport (NUE), Ryanair contributes roughly 12% of the arrivals in Ilmenau. The average fare for a one-way ticket is about $80.
  • KLM: Connecting to Nuremberg Airport (NUE), KLM accounts for nearly 9% of the arrivals in Ilmenau. The average one-way fare is around $350, and premium cabin options may include business class depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Ilmenau

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Ilmenau are February, March, and December, when peak temperatures in Ilmenau can reach up to 36.7°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 46.4°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $311, roughly 31% cheaper than the yearly average.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January29.1°F (-1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$559
February30.0°F (-1.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$493
March36.7°F (2.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyHigh$423
April44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$457
May50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$416
June58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$571
July61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$482
August61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$383
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$311
October46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLow$376
November38.1°F (3.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLow$470
December32.4°F (0.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$477

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Ilmenau

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Ilmenau is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Ilmenau hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Ilmenau flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Ilmenau

Ilmenau welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Ilmenau efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Nuremberg Airport, travelers can easily access several public transport options. The Nürnberg Airport U-Bahn, a metro station, is located just 0.2 miles away on foot, while the Nürnberg Ernst-Heinkel-Weg Bus Stop, a bus station, is about 2.1 miles away by car. Additionally, the Ziegelstein Süd Bus Stop, a train station, is situated approximately 2.3 miles from the airport, also reachable by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Ilmenau, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Ilmenau is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Ilmenau on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Ilmenau

  • Arnstadt: Located 11 miles drive away from Ilmenau, Arnstadt is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy scenic trails and recreational areas, or explore the captivating local landmarks. Must-see attractions include the Erfurt Exhibition Centre, ideal for family entertainment, the stunning Erfurt Cathedral that offers a glimpse into the region's culture, and the romantic Wachsenburg Castle, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Pennewitz: Nestled in the area of Ilmenau, Pennewitz is a picturesque village that beckons travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. With its proximity to lush forests and majestic mountains, it's an outdoor lover's paradise. Highlights include the Thuringian Forest, perfect for hiking and exploration, the tranquil Thuringian Forest Nature Park, and the enchanting Greifenstein Castle, a romantic spot steeped in history and culture.
  • Grossbreitenbach: Located 8 miles drive away from Ilmenau, Grossbreitenbach is a vibrant city known for its outdoor activities and stunning landscapes. The area offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking trails that wind through the breathtaking scenery. Key points of interest include the expansive Thuringian Forest, a haven for nature enthusiasts, the serene Thuringian Forest Nature Park, and the intriguing Gewuerzmuseum Schoenbrunn, which provides insights into the region's history and culture.

Tips for short-haul flights to Ilmenau

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more affordable. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits strategically. This approach also helps you avoid waiting at baggage claim when you arrive.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's wise to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Ilmenau

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow you to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Ilmenau?
Plan your trip for July if you're hoping to get a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Ilmenau. Try to avoid traveling during peak periods such as school vacation time or public holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to Ilmenau?
There are 22 US destinations where you can fly to Ilmenau directly from. Explore your options by using the "Direct flights only" filter on Expedia and find the ideal starting point for you. Here are some of the leading cities to leave from:

  • New York
  • San Francisco
  • Washington
  • Chicago
  • Los Angeles

How to find a cheap flight to Ilmenau?
To lock in cheap flights to Ilmenau, book well in advance or visit during the off-peak months of February and July. Like another tip? Take off on a Thursday and save 16% on average compared to those who travel on a Sunday.* Opt to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and you'll get notified as soon as your fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Ilmenau?
Although booking in advance is typically the best way to save money, don't panic if your Ilmenau vacation is last minute. You can still find cheap flights to Ilmenau, especially if your plans have a little leeway. Try changing your travel dates, exploring different ticket options or flying out of another airport.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Ilmenau?
To snap up some of the best deals on domestic journeys, book your flight to Ilmenau 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book two to four months in advance. This increases your chances of getting your preferred departure dates and seats.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Ilmenau?
Sundays are usually the best day to book a cheap flight to Ilmenau, with savings of about 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you choose to purchase tickets on a Friday, expect to pay more as this is typically the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Ilmenau?
Ilmenau has links with 3 airports all over the world through 3 carriers, like KD Air. Erfurt Airport (ERF) is the primary hub for numerous airlines to Ilmenau. Eurowings can also get you to this destination.
Where do you fly into Ilmenau?
The main airport to fly to Ilmenau is Erfurt Airport (ERF). You can also touch down at Hof (HOQ-Hof-Plauen) when flying to Ilmenau.
How far is the airport from central Ilmenau?
If you're landing at Erfurt Airport (ERF), you'll be about 20 mi north of central Ilmenau.
Can I save money by booking an Ilmenau trip package?
Book an Ilmenau flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could make significant savings. It's easy to bundle your flight and hotel, and you can also add tours and car rentals to create your own customized Ilmenau trip. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Ilmenau?
If you bought your flight to Ilmenau in the last 24 hours, you can often change or cancel it for free. After that, additional charges may apply depending on the airline's terms of service. To learn more, check out our Customer Service Portal. Remember that some flights are non-refundable, so you may receive a credit for future flights instead of a direct refund. When browsing on Expedia, select the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters to find tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Erfurt
Destination airport IATA code
ERF
Destination city name
Erfurt
Roundtrip price
$307

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