From medieval towers to a Stasi prison, Bautzen cradles centuries of history. Walk around the atmospheric Old Town and visit a museum dedicated to the indigenous Sorbs minority group. The city is a gateway to Eastern Saxony, an enchanting pocket of Germany where you can discover picturesque rural landscapes and chocolate-box towns.
Things to do in Bautzen
Admire folk art, costumes and colourful handicrafts at the Sorbisches Museum. Exhibits spotlight the language, culture and traditions of the ethnic group, who have lived in Eastern Saxony for more than 1,000 years. See unique musical instruments like the “měchawa” bagpipes and learn about the art of Sorbian beekeeping.
Learn about the city’s turbulent past at Gedenkstätte Bautzen. The former Stasi prison is reimagined as an immersive museum dedicated to the Ministry for State Security secret police force. Peer into gloomy cells where political prisoners were held, see original inmate transport vans and visit the solitary confinement wing. The prison is relatively untouched since the Stasi era and is a popular “dark tourism” destination.
Walk with dinosaurs in Saurier Park, one of the most popular family theme parks in Eastern Saxony. Discover more than 200 life-size dinosaur models, including a ferocious Tyrannosaurus Rex and a friendly Brachiosaurus. In addition to enormous dinosaurs, the park features an adventure playground complete with climbing nets and rope bridges.
Climb to the top of the Reichenturm, also known as the Leaning Tower of Bautzen. Built in the 1400s, the tower acquired a slight lean in the 18th century but is perfectly safe and stable. The Old Waterworks Tower is another medieval gem. Walk around the heavily fortified pump station and enjoy spectacular views over the Old Town.
Getting around Bautzen
Bautzen is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in Eastern Saxony, one hour from Dresden by car or train. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit nearby sights and attractions at your own pace. Dresden Airport is a 40-minute drive away.