Görlitz
The 10 Stunning Highlights You Must See in Görlitz
Görlitz enchants visitors with a perfectly preserved medieval old town and architecture that has few equals. Germany's easternmost town offers an impressive mix of Gothic churches, Renaissance townhouses and baroque splendour. These sights in Görlitz make the town a true jewel on the Neisse and one of the most beautiful destinations in Saxony. Whether you are planning a whole weekend or just a day trip, here you will learn all about the main attractions in Görlitz that you should not miss.
The Historic Old Town: Heart of Görlitz's Sights
Görlitz's old town is regarded as one of the best-preserved medieval town layouts in Germany. Over 4,000 listed buildings from different eras form an ensemble that repeatedly attracts filmmakers from around the world.
Obermarkt: The Pulsating Centre
The Obermarkt is the historic heart of Görlitz. Here you will find:
- The magnificent town hall with its 61-metre tower
- Beautiful Renaissance and baroque townhouses
- Cosy cafés and restaurants with outdoor terraces
- Regular markets and cultural events
💡 Tip: Visit the Obermarkt early in the morning, when the warm light shows off the historic facades at their best.
For a coffee break along the way, take a look at our selection of the best cafés in Görlitz, many of which are only a few steps from the Obermarkt.
Untermarkt: Pure Medieval Flair
The Untermarkt impresses with its unbroken medieval appearance. The Gothic and Renaissance houses tell stories from past centuries, and the arcades invite you to stroll slowly.
Peterskirche: Landmark Among the Sights
The St. Peterskirche rises above the town and offers a spectacular panoramic view. The 84-metre tower is visible from afar and shapes Görlitz's skyline.
Architectural Masterpiece
The five-aisled hall church impresses with:
- Gothic craftsmanship at its finest
- Magnificent vaults and columns
- Valuable art treasures inside
- The famous Sun Organ of 1703
Climbing the Tower and the View
After climbing 165 steps, you will be rewarded with:
- A breathtaking panoramic view over Görlitz
- A view of the Neisse and across to Poland
- Great photo opportunities of the old town
- In clear weather, a view as far as the Giant Mountains
💡 Tip: The best time to climb the tower is late afternoon, when the sun bathes the landscape in warm light.
Kaisertrutz and Reichenbacher Turm: Medieval Fortifications
These two imposing structures are among the most important sights in Görlitz and bear witness to the medieval town fortifications. They stand right next to each other and can easily be visited in a morning.
Kaisertrutz: A Mighty Round Tower
The Kaisertrutz, dating from the 15th century, now houses the Kulturhistorisches Museum. The collection includes:
- Town history from its founding to the present day
- Decorative crafts and historic objects
- Changing special exhibitions
- Insights into medieval life
Reichenbacher Turm: Gateway to the Town
The 46-metre Reichenbacher Turm was once part of the Reichenbacher Tor. Today visitors can:
- Climb the tower and enjoy the view
- Visit the historical exhibition
- Learn more about the town fortifications
- Discover original medieval defensive technology
Landeskrone: Natural Monument with a Panoramic View
At 420 metres, the Landeskrone is the highest point in the town and offers one of the best views of the sights in Görlitz.
Geological Wonder
The extinct volcanic cone was formed 15 million years ago and is now a:
- Nature reserve with rare plants
- Popular destination for walkers
- Geological natural monument
- Habitat for protected species
Viewing Tower and Food and Drink
At the summit you will find:
- A 28-metre viewing tower
- A restaurant with regional cooking
- A beer garden with a panoramic view
- Walking trails through the nature park
💡 Tip: Plan your visit to the Landeskrone for sunset, as the view over Görlitz is especially romantic then.
Neissepromenade and Altstadtbrücke: The Border Between Two Countries
The Neisse divides the historic town into a German and a Polish part. The Neissepromenade is among the most relaxing sights in Görlitz.
A Walk by the River
The well-kept riverside promenade offers:
- Relaxing walking routes along the Neisse
- A view of the Polish sister town of Zgorzelec
- Historic bridges with a special atmosphere
- Quiet spots to linger and unwind
Altstadtbrücke: The Link to Poland
The bridge, built in 1847, connects Germany and Poland:
- A pedestrian-friendly border crossing
- Historic significance as a trade route
- A photo spot with symbolic appeal
- A starting point for exploring Zgorzelec
Schlesisches Museum: Cultural Highlight
The Schlesisches Museum zu Görlitz presents the history and culture of Silesia in a magnificent palace in the middle of the old town.
Permanent Exhibition
The extensive collection shows:
- 1,000 years of Silesian history
- Art and culture of the region
- Crafts and traditions
- Interactive stations for all age groups
Schönhof: Architectural Jewel
The museum building itself is a sight:
- A Renaissance palace from the 16th century
- A magnificent facade with rich decoration
- Historic interiors with original furnishings
- One of the most beautiful secular buildings in the town
Heiliges Grab: A Unique Pilgrimage Destination
The Heiliges Grab in Görlitz is one of the most fascinating sights in Görlitz and the second-oldest replica of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem north of the Alps.
Historical Significance
The complex, dating from the 15th century, comprises:
- A faithful replica of the holy sites of Jerusalem
- The Adam Chapel with medieval frescoes
- The Salbhaus and the Cross Chapel
- An important pilgrimage destination for over 500 years
A Special Atmosphere
Visitors experience here:
- Spiritual calm in the middle of the town
- Unique architecture and works of art
- Tours through the sacred rooms
- Special services on church holidays
💡 Tip: Join a tour to understand the complex symbolism and history of the complex.
Staying in the Heart of the Old Town
Because the main destinations are close together, accommodation in the historic centre is worthwhile: from there you can reach the Obermarkt, Peterskirche and Neissepromenade on foot. Our overview of the most beautiful hotels in Görlitz's old town helps you choose, from the small guesthouse to the hotel with a historic vault.
📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Görlitz on our city page.
Conclusion: Experiencing the Sights
Görlitz offers a unique mix of history, culture and nature. The sights in Görlitz span everything from medieval architecture to modern museums. Every corner of the town tells stories from different eras, and it is often the details on facades and in courtyards that stay in the memory longest.
The main highlights for your visit:
- Explore the historic old town with the Obermarkt and Untermarkt
- Climb the Peterskirche for the best panoramic view
- Visit the Kaisertrutz and the Reichenbacher Turm
- Visit the Landeskrone for nature and the view
- Use the Neissepromenade for relaxed moments
Allow at least two days to discover the main sights in Görlitz at your leisure. The town rewards every visitor with lasting impressions and the special atmosphere of a living city of history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sights are suitable for families? Particularly family-friendly are the Landeskrone with its nature experience, the Schlesisches Museum with interactive stations and walks through the car-free old town. Children also love climbing the towers for the view.
How much time do you need for the main sights? For the main attractions you should allow at least two days. One day is enough for a first overview, but for relaxed sightseeing and museum visits, two to three days are best.
Are the sights open all year round? Most attractions are accessible all year round. Museums have regular opening hours, churches can be visited, and the old town can always be experienced. In the winter months some viewing towers are closed because of the weather.
Are there combined tickets for several sights? Yes, the Görlitz-Card offers discounted admission to many attractions and the use of public transport. It is available from the tourist information office and in participating hotels.
Which sights are wheelchair accessible? The old town with its squares is largely accessible. The Schlesisches Museum and many ground floors of historic buildings are accessible. Climbing the towers is not accessible because of the historic staircases.
Is a trip across the Neisse to Zgorzelec worthwhile? Yes. Via the Altstadtbrücke you are on the Polish side within minutes and see the historic twin town from a completely different perspective, a good way to round off a walk along the Neissepromenade.
Markus Klein
