"Bautzen on a Gorgeous Winter's Day" Bautzen by Kathrin_E

Bautzen Travel Guide: 94 reviews and 461 photos

Old town panorama from Friedensbrücke - Bautzen

One of many street views in the old town

Bautzen is another of those many interesting small towns in Saxony. It gained a rather negative fame during the Third Reich and the DDR as seat of a prison for political convicts. Apart from that, however, Bautzen has a pretty old town with impressive walls and towers. Neglected during Socialism, it was decaying but at least preserved. In the meantime most of it has been well restored and the old town has become a hidden gem.

Located on the railway line between Dresden and Görlitz, Bautzen makes an easy day trip from either. And a very worthwhile one. Special thanks to our local expert for showing me round! Having a competent private guide helps such a lot, even more so if the guide is a personal friend.

However, in one day one cannot see everything the town has to offer, so my tips are far from complete. I'd like to go back in a different season. My To-do-list for a second visit would include:
- the prison memorial
- the Sorbian museum
- climbing the steeple of the Dom

Last visit to Bautzen: Dec 2009
Intro Updated Jan 8, 2010
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Reviews (20)

The Sorbs Local Customs (2)

When arriving in Bautzen you'll notice quickly that the town has two names, Bautzen and Budyšin. Many signs are... more travel advice

Ruin of Mönchskirche and Water Tower Things to Do (15)

The medieval Franciscan monastery burnt down already in 1598 and was never rebuilt. The ruin of the church, named... more travel advice

Wendischer Kirchhof with the two towers - Bautzen

Wendischer Kirchhof Things to Do (15)

The "Sorbian" churchyard is exposed outside the town walls. It forms a platform high above the river with splendid... more travel advice

Trails along the Town Walls Things to Do (15)

Walking the trails along the town walls is a must, especially for photographers. Footpaths lead along the outer side of... more travel advice

Favorites (2)
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Restaurants (1)
Sorbian Cuisine

Travelogues (9)

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Comments (2)

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yumyum Jan 10, 2010 at 10:56 AM

What a gorgeous town! A shame we didn't have time to visit when we were in Görlitz and Dresden. And even a yummy restaurant tip :)
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german_eagle Jan 1, 2010 at 3:28 AM

Oh, you already have a "to do" list for your next visit? ;-)