Upper Lusatia Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and cultural experiences in Upper Lusatia, Germany. Explore this hidden gem in Central Europe and plan your trip with our comprehensive guide.


Upper Lusatia is a hidden gem located in Saxony, Central Europe. With its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, it is a must-visit destination in Germany. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Upper Lusatia, covering everything from the best things to do, places to visit, and local customs to follow.

Introduction to Upper Lusatia

Upper Lusatia is an area that covers the eastern part of the German state of Saxony, bordering Poland and the Czech Republic. It is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultural heritage, and exceptional outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Upper Lusatia

Here are some must-visit places in Upper Lusatia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bautzen Memorial Museum
  • Zittau Town Hall Tower Museum
  • Grossschönau City Museum
  • Lusatian Museum in Görlitz

Natural Attractions of Upper Lusatia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Saxon Switzerland National Park
  • Königstein Fortress
  • Zittau Mountains
  • Lake Berzdorf

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upper Lusatia

Upper Lusatia is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Oberlausitz-Schlesische Berglandweg
  • Saxon Wine Route
  • Neiße-Cycle-Path
  • Mill Route

Best Things to Do in Upper Lusatia: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor activities, here are some of the top things to do in Upper Lusatia:

  • Take a guided city tour of Görlitz
  • Hike through the Saxon Switzerland National Park
  • Go on a boat trip on Lake Olbersdorf
  • Explore the historic town of Bautzen

Week-Long Itinerary for Upper Lusatia

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week in Upper Lusatia:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Görlitz and take a walking city tour
Day 2 Explore Saxon Switzerland National Park on a hike
Day 3 Visit the town of Bautzen and see the Memorial Museum
Day 4 Take a guided tour of Zittau Mountains
Day 5 Enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Berzdorf
Day 6 Visit the Lusatian Museum in Görlitz
Day 7 Depart from Upper Lusatia

Food and Drink Scene of Upper Lusatia

No trip to Upper Lusatia is complete without trying the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Silesian dumplings
  • Potato pancakes
  • Sauerbraten with red cabbage
  • Quarkkeulchen

Local Beverages

  • Zittau beer
  • Lusatian wine
  • Kräuterlikör (herbal liqueur)
  • Eierschecke (custard cake)

Where to Stay in Upper Lusatia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Upper Lusatia offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and needs. Here are some suggestions:

  • Romantik Hotel Tuchmacher
  • Pension Sonnenhof
  • Hotel Kristina
  • Hostel Löbau

What to Buy in Upper Lusatia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring some souvenirs and local products back home, here are some suggestions:

  • Ceramic pottery from Bunzlau
  • Woolen blankets from Upper Lusatia
  • Wooden handicrafts from Seifhennersdorf
  • Saxon wines and liqueurs

Local Culture and Customs of Upper Lusatia

The culture of Upper Lusatia is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Here are some local customs and cultural practices to keep in mind:

  • Respect the local cuisine and try to taste as much as you can
  • Say “Guten Tag” (Good day) and greet people
  • Dress accordingly while visiting religious sites
  • Learn about the local customs and history

Best Time to Visit Upper Lusatia

The best time to visit Upper Lusatia is between May and September, when the weather is warm and pleasant. This is also the peak season for tourism in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upper Lusatia

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Explore the great outdoors

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings
  • Don’t take pictures in religious places without permission
  • Don’t be loud and disruptive in public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Upper Lusatia

Upper Lusatia is a safe destination, but like any other place, it’s important to take appropriate precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be aware of pickpockets
  • Leave valuables in your hotel’s safe
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas

Health in Upper Lusatia

Upper Lusatia has a good healthcare system, and hospitals and clinics are readily available. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance and keep important documents with you.

Getting to Upper Lusatia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some ways to get to Upper Lusatia:

Airports Near Upper Lusatia

The closest airports to Upper Lusatia are:

  • Dresden Airport
  • Prague Airport

Bus Stations Near Upper Lusatia

Here are some bus stations in the vicinity of Upper Lusatia:

  • Bautzen bus station
  • Zittau bus station
  • Görlitz bus station

Other Options

If you’re coming from another German city, you can also take a train to Dresden and then transfer to another train or bus to Upper Lusatia.

How to Get Around in Upper Lusatia

The best way to get around Upper Lusatia is by car. However, public transportation is also available, and trains and buses connect different cities in the area.

Where to Go Next from Upper Lusatia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations that are worth visiting:

  • Dresden
  • Leipzig
  • Prague
  • Berlin

Conclusion

Upper Lusatia is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and exceptional outdoor activities, it’s a must-visit destination in Germany. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Upper Lusatia and make the most out of your visit.