Things To Do
in Zittau
Zittau is a small, historic town in Saxony, perched near the border with Poland and the Czech Republic. Its well-preserved Obermarkt and colorful town houses reflect centuries of trade and culture. The town sits at the foot of the Zittauer Gebirge, offering easy access to forested hills, viewpoints, and cross-border day trips.
Visitors enjoy a relaxed, authentic Saxon experience with a strong Sorbian cultural influence.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zittau and settle into your chosen accommodation. After freshening up, take a leisurely stroll through the historic old town, admiring the beautifully preserved architecture and vibrant street life. Stop at a local café for a traditional German breakfast, trying out some regional specialties.
Visit the Zittau Town Hall and the unique late Gothic St. John's Church. Enjoy a guided tour that uncovers the fascinating history of the town and its cultural significance in the region. Wrap up your afternoon at the charming market square, exploring local shops and perhaps buying a few souvenirs.
Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Saxon cuisine. Afterward, take a relaxing evening walk along the Lusatian Neisse riverbank, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the twilight. Cap off the night with a visit to a nearby pub for some local brews.
Start your day with a visit to the Museum of the Upper Lusatian, where you can delve into the local history and culture. Engage with interactive exhibits that provide insights into the region's past and traditions. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing brunch at a nearby bakery famous for its pastries.
Take a guided tour of the Zittau Abbey, a significant historical site just outside the city. The serene landscape and the intricate architecture of the abbey will captivate your senses. Spend some time in the nearby park, which offers beautiful walking paths lined with nature.
Savor a delightful dinner at a local bistro specializing in farm-to-table meals. Post-dinner, consider attending a concert or cultural event at the Zittau Theater, which often showcases local talent. Wind down with a stroll through the illuminated streets of Zittau, appreciating the city's charm at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.33L) | $1-2 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with preserved architecture.
- Gateway to the Zittauer Gebirge and cross-border day trips.
- Smaller nightlife scene and fewer big-city amenities.
- Limited public transit options on weekends in some areas.
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Zittau
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant square framed by pastel town houses and the tall Frauenturm; ideal for golden-hour shots.
Impressive brick architecture and a picturesque church interior; great for both exteriors and interiors in diffused light.
Colorful Renaissance façades and ornate gables that tell the town’s centuries of history.
Scenic overlooks like Hochstein that deliver sweeping panoramas over the town and valley.
Food in Zittau
Zittau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato and quark pancakes lightly fried until crisp, often served with apple sauce or a dollop of sour cream.
Must-Try!
A layered Saxon cake with creamy custard and a bready crust, typically enjoyed with coffee.
Steamed yeast dumplings served with vanilla sauce or fruit compote.
Soft dumplings served with savory gravy and seasonal vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers’ market offering fresh produce, breads, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Casual stalls around the historic center offering pretzels, sausages, and quick snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Guten Abend'; arrive on time for appointments and reservations.
Use Sie for adults you don't know; switch to du only with close friends or family.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially at night.
Safety
Tipping in Zittau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in cafes and restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted, but cards (including EC and major credit cards) and contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; great time for city walks and light hikes. Rain jackets recommended.
Warm to hot days; long daylight hours and excellent hiking and outdoor dining. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Colorful foliage and harvest festivals; cooler temperatures, best for photography and gentle hikes.
Chance of snow and festive markets; dress in layers and enjoy warm drinks after a day outdoors.
Zittau at Night
Hiking in Zittau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop with rewarding views over Zittau and surrounding valleys.
Cross-border route offering panoramic vistas from the Lausche peak and surrounding plateaus.
Forest hikes with streams and observation points, suitable for a half-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Zittau by plane.
Major international hub in Dresden, about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Zittau by road and rail connections.
Large international airport accessible for cross-border trips; train or bus connections to Saxony.
Regional hub in Poland with several European connections; drive or train link to Zittau via Görlitz.
Nearby international airport with good rail links to eastern Saxony and Görlitz.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly German, with a culturally rich Sorbian heritage reflected in local art and festivals.
A steady presence from local colleges and language programs; some international visitors during the summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and regional teams; games and leagues available in the area.
Flat-to-rolling terrain around Zittau makes for pleasant day rides and mountain biking in nearby hills.
Extensive trails in the Zittauer Gebirge for day hikes and nature walks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zittau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in many restaurants. Look for dishes labeled vegetarisch and consider salads, mushroom plates, dumplings with cheese or vegetables, and bakery pastries. When in doubt, ask staff for meat-free alternatives.