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Jena: Discover the oldest planetarium in the world before renovation!
Jena, a Thuringian university town, is home to the oldest planetarium in the world and impresses with a high density of students.
Jena: Discover the oldest planetarium in the world before renovation!
A hidden gem in Thuringia: The university town of Jena, with its 109,725 inhabitants, is not only home to historical sites and a rich scientific history, but also the oldest planetarium in the world. The Zeiss Planetarium, opened in 1926, is a place that attracts both locals and tourists, although the city lags behind tourist hotspots like Cambridge in terms of popularity.
The planetarium is not only a technical masterpiece, but also offers an impressive world of experience with up to seven different shows every day in a 360° dome projection. It has made a name for itself with an innovative 64-channel surround sound and under the direction of the Ernst Abbe Foundation. During the closed period for renovations in the first half of 2026, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the fascinating offerings until December 31, 2025.
Special highlights in Jena
Jena is not only known for its planetarium; the city has much more to offer. For example, it produces 60% of Germany's precision optics, which underlines its importance in the scientific community. Another highlight is the Imaginata, an interactive exhibition with 100 experimental stations that illustrate various physical phenomena. Just a few steps further is the Botanical Garden, which has conveyed a sense of nature and science since 1586 and is home to over 10,000 plant species.
Particular attention is paid to the ginkgo tree in the Botanical Garden, which is more than 200 years old and its history not only shaped Goethe's color theory, but also served as a place of inspiration. In addition, the town church of St. Michael can be visited, which offers a panoramic view of the city, while the SaaleHorizontale high-altitude hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the Saale valley.
Practical tips for your visit
The city is compact and easy to explore on foot. Parking is available in the city, particularly at Engelplatz for 2 euros per hour, about a five-minute walk from the city center. Visitors to the planetarium should also use the city's parking guidance systems to ensure a stress-free stay.
Anyone who would like to visit the Zeiss Planetarium has the option of purchasing tickets Online ticket shop to purchase in advance. From summer 2026, following its anniversary renovation, the planetarium will offer a new experience that combines traditional astronomy with state-of-the-art technology. Fortunately, curious people can still take advantage of the regular offers until the end of 2025.
Fall 2025 is recommended as the best time to visit before structural changes begin. With the highest student density in East Germany and a lively university atmosphere, Jena radiates a special energy that is worth every visit.