Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
Nikita Pishchugin, Pexels
Görlitz offers a remarkably preserved historic cityscape, showcasing architectural styles from several centuries, and is known as a favored filming location, often called 'Görliwood'. Its position on the German-Polish border provides a unique opportunity to explore two cultures in one visit.
The Untermarkt and Obermarkt squares are central areas featuring cafes with outdoor seating, providing comfortable spots to socialise, enjoy local cuisine, and observe the city's atmosphere. The old town also hosts various pubs and bars for evening gatherings.
Top 6 Things to do in Görlitz
Activities in Görlitz primarily involve exploring its exceptionally preserved historic architecture, discovering famous film locations, and experiencing its unique cross-border culture.
1. Explore the Historic Old Town (Altstadt)
Wander through Görlitz's charming cobblestone streets and squares, a journey through centuries of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque and Art Nouveau. This area was remarkably spared from WWII destruction, making it a living museum with over 4,000 protected monuments. Take time to admire the intricate facades and discover hidden courtyards. Simply getting lost in the Altstadt allows for serendipitous discoveries.
Cost: Free to explore on your own. Guided walking tours are available from the Tourist Information for approximately $9 (around €8-9) for a 1.5-hour tour, though these may primarily be in German. Private guided tours offer English options and can range from $257 (for a 2-hour tour for up to 10 people) to $385 (for a 4-hour tour for up to 10 people).
Transport: The Old Town is central and highly walkable. Most attractions are within easy walking distance.
2. Embark on a 'Görliwood' Film Locations Tour
Discover why Görlitz is nicknamed 'Görliwood' by exploring the locations where numerous international films, such as 'The Grand Budapest Hotel', 'Inglourious Basterds', and 'The Monuments Men', were shot. Recognize familiar backdrops as you stroll through the city. A self-guided tour using the free SmartGuide app is available, or pick up a 'Welcome to Görliwood' flyer from the tourist information center for a map of locations.
Cost: Self-guided tours with the SmartGuide app or a brochure are free. Guided English-language tours are offered by Visit Görlitz (around 90 minutes) or private tours, with prices varying.
Transport: Film locations are primarily within the walkable Old Town area.
3. Visit St. Peter and Paul's Church (Peterskirche)
Stand before the imposing St. Peter and Paul's Church, an iconic landmark with origins tracing back to the 11th century, with its current Gothic structure built between 1425 and 1497. Inside, marvel at the famous 'Sun Organ' by Eugenio Casparini, noted for its 18 radiant sun faces. Consider climbing the tower for panoramic views across the city and the Neisse River.
Cost: Entrance to the church itself is usually free, but there may be a small charge to take photos inside. Access to climb the tower or listen to organ concerts may incur a separate fee, typically a few euros.
Transport: Located on a prominent hill overlooking the Neisse River, it is easily reachable by foot from the Old Town squares.
4. Cross the Old Town Bridge to Zgorzelec, Poland
Experience the unique sensation of stepping from Germany into Poland by crossing the historic Altstadtbrücke (Old Town Bridge) over the Lusatian Neisse River. This pedestrian bridge connects Görlitz with its Polish counterpart, Zgorzelec, which was once part of Görlitz. Explore Zgorzelec's riverside area, perhaps enjoying a pierogi or coffee, and appreciate the views back towards Görlitz. This offers a tangible sense of European cross-border unity and cultural exchange.
Cost: Free.
Transport: The Old Town Bridge is a direct extension from Görlitz's city center, easily accessible on foot.
5. Ascend the Reichenbacher Turm
For some of the best views of Görlitz's historic skyline, climb the 165 steps to the top of the Reichenbacher Turm, one of the city's ancient fortification towers. From this vantage point, the extensive collection of architectural styles and the layout of the city become evident, offering a unique perspective.
Cost: Admission is approximately €3 for regular tickets, with reduced rates at €2. Visitors up to 18 years old can enter for free.
Transport: Located within the walkable Old Town, it is easily accessible on foot.
6. Visit the Silesian Museum (Schlesisches Museum zu Görlitz)
Delve into the rich history and culture of Silesia at this museum, which houses permanent and special exhibitions. It offers insights into the region's complex heritage, influenced by Polish, Czech, and German elements. Exploring the museum provides context to Görlitz's unique position and its past.
Cost: A permanent exhibition ticket costs €8, or €6 reduced. A combined ticket for permanent and special exhibitions is €10 (or €7.50 reduced) and is valid for two days. Free entry is available on the first Sunday of every month, and for visitors up to 18 years old. Audioguides are free.
Transport: The museum is centrally located and can be reached by foot from the main squares of the Old Town. Public transport tickets for Görlitz are €2 for a single trip.
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