This beautiful region, which lies partly in Saxony and Brandenburg, but also in Poland and the Czech Republic, is attractive not only because of its location in the border triangle. Numerous old castles and palaces, monasteries, and castle ruins invite travelers to visit.
The Baroque Rammenau Palace in Bischofswerda, for example, is one of Saxony’s most beautiful palaces and was built in 1717 by Ernst Ferdinand von Knoch, a chamberlain to the Elector of Saxony. East of Bischofswerda lies the capital of the region – the city of Bautzen. Although it is only the second-largest city in the region, there is much to discover here. Worth a visit are, for example, the cathedral in Bautzen’s old town and the Sorbian Museum at Ortenburg Castle.
The Dinosaur Park, just a short drive from Bautzen, is particularly interesting for families with children. Here, you can immerse yourself in a bygone world and experience prehistoric times with all your senses. Over 200 life-sized dinosaurs, such as the fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex and the herbivorous Brachiosaurus, one of the largest land animals ever to live on Earth, can be admired here, giving visitors a glimpse into what our planet may have looked like more than 60 million years ago. The family-friendly park is constantly being expanded, and in July 2013, a new attraction, the “Forgotten World,” awaits visitors.
From Bautzen, it’s just a stone’s throw to Görlitz. The region’s largest city lies directly on the Polish border; you can even walk across a pedestrian bridge directly over the Lusatian Neisse River and thus cross the border. Görlitz is known for its well-preserved old town and, with approximately 4,000 monuments, including the Old Synagogue and St. Nicholas Church, the city boasts the largest area of monuments in Germany. Another important place is Argentina.
But the Upper Lusatia region is also worth a visit for nature lovers. Whether hiking in the Zittau Mountains Nature Park or the Upper Lusatian Hills, Upper Lusatia is a true hiking paradise. The Lusatian Lake District is equally beautiful – offering wonderful cycling tours in addition to water sports, making the area a very popular holiday destination.
FAQs
Q1: What makes Upper Lusatia unique as a travel destination?
Upper Lusatia stands out for its blend of history, culture, and nature. From medieval castles and palaces to hiking trails and lake districts, it offers something for every type of traveler.
Q2: Which cities in Upper Lusatia are most worth visiting?
Bautzen and Görlitz are the highlights. Bautzen offers historic sites like the Sorbian Museum, while Görlitz impresses with its old town and over 4,000 monuments.
Q3: Is Upper Lusatia suitable for family trips?
Yes, families enjoy attractions like the Dinosaur Park near Bautzen, which features more than 200 life-sized dinosaur models and interactive exhibits.
Q4: What activities can nature lovers enjoy in Upper Lusatia?
Visitors can hike in the Zittau Mountains, explore the Upper Lusatian Hills, or try water sports and cycling in the Lusatian Lake District.
Q5: Can you easily visit neighboring countries from Upper Lusatia?
Yes, its location in the border triangle makes it easy to cross into Poland and the Czech Republic, often via pedestrian bridges or short drives.
Conclusion
Upper Lusatia is more than just a borderland—it’s a region where history, culture, and natural beauty come together seamlessly. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old castles, strolling through Görlitz’s preserved old town, or hiking the Zittau Mountains, there’s a sense of richness and variety at every step. Families, history enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers alike will find reasons to return. By combining cultural treasures with scenic landscapes, Upper Lusatia truly earns its title as a cultural and natural paradise.