University of Erlangen–Nuremberg

NurembergGermany 49° N · 11° E Verified Jun 2025

Visiting the University of Erlangen–Nuremberg (FAU), located in the culturally rich cities of Erlangen and Nuremberg, offers an exceptional opportunity to…

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University of Erlangen–Nuremberg

Introduction

The University of Erlangen–Nuremberg (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen–Nürnberg, FAU) stands as one of Germany’s oldest and most distinguished public research universities, uniquely situated in both Erlangen and Nuremberg. Established in 1742, FAU has evolved into a dynamic, dual-city institution renowned for its blend of historical architecture, innovative research, and vibrant student life. The university not only fosters academic excellence across disciplines such as Engineering, Medicine, and the Humanities, but also serves as a cultural hub within Bavaria’s rich urban landscape (gotouniversity.com; FAU History).

This guide offers a detailed overview of visiting FAU—including hours, ticket policies, accessibility, campus highlights, and practical tips. It also provides recommendations for must-see historical sites, participation in cultural events, and ways to enhance your visit with digital resources like the Audiala app. Whether you are a prospective student, researcher, or traveler, this guide will help you maximize your experience at FAU (fau.eu; standyou.com; edurank.org).

Cover page and table of contents of Anton Böck's 1995 academic thesis 'Der Welthandel mit Pelzen'
Cover page and table of contents of Anton Böck's 1995 scientific thesis 'Der Welthandel mit Pelzen', a diploma thesis at Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, on global fur trade.
Historic University Street in Erlangen in 1916 with old buildings and tram tracks
Black and white photograph of University Street in Erlangen, Germany, taken in 1916 showing early 20th century architecture and streetcar tracks.
Historic Old Collegiate Building in Erlangen around 1890
Historic photograph of the Old Collegiate Building (Altes Kollegiengebäude) in Erlangen, Germany, circa 1890. The building, located at Schlossgarten 5, was later remodeled in 1895 and now houses the GeoZentrum Nordbayern of the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg.
Historic chemical laboratory building of the University of Erlangen in Wasserturmstraße 5, built in 1858 with a chapel-like architectural style known as Gorupskapelle
The 1858 chemical laboratory building of the University of Erlangen located at Wasserturmstraße 5, originally designed by Civil Engineer Denzinger and Architect Bürklein, also called Gorupskapelle for its chapel-like form named after Chemistry Professor Eugen Franz von Gorup-Besánez. It was extensiv
Historical procession at the Honor Gate between the Old and New Town of Erlangen during the inauguration of the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg
Festive procession at the Honor Gate in Erlangen's Old and New Town during the 1743 inauguration of Friedrich-Alexander University, idealized view from Engelstraße corner into Hauptstraße.
Historical procession during the inauguration of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg with Neustädter Kirche in background
Idealized view of the inauguration procession at the corner of Hauptstraße and Friedrichstraße in Erlangen, featuring the Neustädter Kirche and celebrations at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg in 1743.
Institut für Klinische und Molekularische Virologie building at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg in Botanischer Garten Erlangen
Historic building of Institut für Klinische und Molekularische Virologie at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg located in Botanischer Garten Erlangen, built between 1890-1892 by architect Friedrich Wilhelm Scharff.
Historical building of Neue Anatomie at Krankenhausstraße 9 corner Universitätsstraße in Erlangen
Neue Anatomie building located at Krankenhausstraße 9 and Universitätsstraße corner in Erlangen, designed by architect Friedrich Wilhelm Scharff, constructed in 1896/97
Marktplatz Erlangen reception of students protesting returning from Altdorf bei Nürnberg with restored Markgräfliches Schloss in background
Historical view of Marktplatz in Erlangen during the reception of students who protested by staying a week in Altdorf bei Nürnberg. The burned and restored Markgräfliches Schloss Erlangen is visible in the background.
Representatives of student Landsmannschaften Marchia, Onoldia, Guestphalia and Franconia, color print from a 1801 Stammbuchblatt
Color print depicting representatives of the student Landsmannschaften Marchia, Onoldia, Guestphalia and Franconia, based on a Stammbuchblatt from 1801.
Geschichtsdoppeltaler coin commemorating the hundredth anniversary of the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg in 1843
Close-up image of the Geschichtsdoppeltaler coin minted in 1843 to celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Bavaria.
Symbols of anti-orden societies at University of Erlangen from 1798
Historical image showing symbols of anti-orden societies at the University of Erlangen in 1798, representing Westphalian, Berlin, and Ansbach groups.

University Origins & Historical Development

Founded in 1742 by Frederick, Margrave of Brandenburg-Bayreuth, FAU initially comprised four classical faculties: Theology, Law, Medicine, and Philosophy. The university relocated to Erlangen in 1743, cementing its presence in Franconia. Over subsequent centuries, FAU expanded its academic reach, notably merging with a business college in Nuremberg in 1961, leading to its unique dual-city identity. The addition of the Faculty of Engineering in 1966 and other disciplines underscores FAU’s commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary education (gotouniversity.com; FAU History).

Academic and Research Excellence

FAU is recognized among Germany’s U15 research universities and boasts over 129,000 scientific publications. Its five faculties—Humanities, Social Sciences, Theology, Medicine, Sciences, and Engineering—serve nearly 40,000 students, including a significant international cohort. Strategic partnerships with research institutes such as Max Planck and Fraunhofer drive advancements in renewable energy, healthcare, and sustainable technology. FAU consistently ranks among Germany’s leaders in innovation (edurank.org; standyou.com).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Standard Visiting Hours

  • General Campus Access Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Some buildings, like libraries or specific research centers, may have extended or variable hours. Always consult the FAU website or Faculty of Engineering for the latest updates.

  • Erlangen Schloss & Schlossgarten Open daily, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Nuremberg Campus (WiSo, ECN) Academic buildings and outdoor spaces typically open during standard university hours.

Tickets and Entry

  • General Entry Free access to most university grounds, including gardens and public spaces.
  • Guided Tours May require advance booking and a nominal fee. Tours are available for groups and during special university events (FAU Visitor Services).
  • Events/Exhibitions Some special exhibitions or lectures may require tickets, which can be reserved online.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Access Most buildings are equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
  • Barrier-Free Navigation Detailed accessibility information and campus maps are available at FAU’s accessibility page.
  • Assistance Visitors with disabilities can request support in advance.

Campus Highlights: Landmarks and Facilities

Erlangen Campus

  • Erlangen Schloss A baroque palace central to FAU’s heritage, surrounded by the elegant Schlossgarten.
  • Hanns-Hofmann-Hörsaal & Hörsaal H18 Notable lecture halls known for their functionalist architecture and bright interiors.
  • University Hospital Erlangen One of Germany’s leading medical centers, occasionally open for public tours.

Nuremberg Campus

  • School of Business, Economics and Society (WiSo) Located in the city center, this faculty hosts public events and is a focal point for business education.
  • Energie Campus Nürnberg (ECN/“Auf AEG”) An innovative research hub housed in a repurposed industrial complex, exemplifying adaptive reuse and sustainable design (FAU Faculty of Engineering).

Libraries and Study Spaces

  • Economic and Social Sciences Library (WSZB) & Educational Science Branch Library (EZB) Offer quiet study areas and host exhibitions on university history (Wikipedia).

Cultural and Academic Events

  • Schlossgartenfest Annual open-air festival featuring music, food, and cultural activities in the Erlangen Schlossgarten.
  • Public Lectures & Conferences Regularly held at both campuses and open to visitors.
  • Art Exhibitions & Student Events Hosted throughout the year, reflecting FAU’s vibrant academic community (standyou.com).

Nearby Nuremberg Attractions

Maximize your visit by exploring Nuremberg’s historical and cultural sites:

  • Nuremberg Old Town Medieval architecture, lively markets, and historic churches.
  • Nuremberg Castle Iconic fortress with panoramic city views.
  • Germanisches Nationalmuseum Germany’s largest museum of cultural history.
  • Local Parks Hallerwiese and Pegnitz riverside offer green respites close to campus (HotelsCombined).

Transportation

  • Public Transit FAU campuses are accessible via regional trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. The ECN (“Auf AEG”) campus is near the Eberhardshof U1 subway stop (Nuremberg Public Transport).
  • Parking Limited in city centers; public transport is recommended.

Accommodation

  • Hotels Options near campus include Holiday Inn Express Erlangen, NH Erlangen, and Novotel Erlangen—all highly rated (HotelsCombined).

Dining

  • On-Campus Mensa (student cafeterias) and cafés are open to visitors.
  • Nearby Variety of eateries offering Franconian and international cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for FAU campuses?
A: Generally, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekdays; check specific facility hours online.

Q: Are tickets required for campus entry?
A: No, entry to public areas is free. Some tours and events may require tickets.

Q: Is the campus accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, most buildings have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: How do I arrange a guided tour?
A: Contact FAU Visitor Services or check the university’s events calendar.

Q: What are recommended nearby attractions?
A: Nuremberg Castle, Germanisches Nationalmuseum, and Old Town.

Q: Can visitors use the university libraries?
A: Libraries are open for onsite use; borrowing privileges are usually limited to FAU members.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

The University of Erlangen–Nuremberg offers a compelling blend of historical grandeur, academic dynamism, and cultural vibrancy. Visitors can explore architectural gems like the Erlangen Schloss and Energie Campus Nürnberg, participate in festivals and public events, and enjoy seamless access to the cultural riches of Nuremberg. Free campus access, accessibility features, and digital resources like the Audiala app make visiting easy and enriching. For an optimal experience, plan ahead using official university resources, and consider extending your visit to explore the broader Bavarian region (fau.eu; gotouniversity.com; standyou.com).