Towns and quaint villages with historical quarters occupy the hilly terrain of Upper Lusatia (Oberlausitz). It is a large region comprising of many churches, majestic town halls and parks alongside thermal spas and historic castles.
BautzenOpens in a new window is the historic capital of Upper Lusatia and contains many of the region’s most intriguing treasures. Wander through the old town center to see the great range of architecture. Admire the yellow façade and tall clock tower of the Bautzen Rathaus. Learn about the city’s dark past in the Bautzen Memorial, which commemorates the victims of a former Stasi prison.
The region’s largest city, GoerlitzOpens in a new window, lies directly east of Bautzen on the Polish border. The city contains the Holy Grave, a replica of the small chapel of the same name in Jerusalem. Take advantage of sunny days with trips to the Görlitz Conservation Zoo and Görlitz Stadtpark. Bring the kids on the Görlitz Vintage Miniature Railway to ride through parkland in the city center.
Reach the northwestern part of the region for the relaxing havens of Körse Thermal Spa in Kirschau and Lausitzbad Spa in Hoyerswerda. The latter town also contains Hoyerswerda Zoo and Hoyerswerda Castle Museum.
Upper Lusatia’s countryside is rich with picturesque rock formations and sweeping meadows. Travel south to Zittau to find the Zittau Mountains, which continue across the border into the Czech Republic. The highest peak is Lausche, which has a small ski resort.
Try the region’s traditional cuisine, such as stopperle dumplings and teichelmauke, a local rendition of beef and mashed potatoes. The climate varies depending on elevation and location in this large region. In general, expect cold, snowy winters and fairly wet weather year-round.
Most of this region belongs to the German state of Saxony. Fly to Dresden Airport, just outside the western limits of the historical area. Villages and towns are easily accessible using the railway.
Discover Germany’s mountainous scenery and splendid architecture in the vast region of Upper Lusatia.
