Things To Do
in Borna

Borna is a charming town located in Saxony, Germany, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. It boasts a blend of modern amenities and traditional architecture, making it an inviting destination for visitors. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering numerous outdoor activities and scenic views.

Borna is also well-connected to larger cities, allowing for easy exploration of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Borna's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Borna Museum to learn about the town's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic town center, stopping by the St. Marien Church and exploring local shops.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local specialties, followed by a stroll along the Borna River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Auewald forest, taking in the lush greenery and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local botanical gardens for a peaceful afternoon among beautiful plants and flowers.

evening
:

Experience Borna's nightlife at a local pub, enjoying live music and sampling regional beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚇Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night in a budget hotel$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Less English spoken in smaller establishments.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good Morning
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...
  • "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Borna

Visit one of these nice places.

Borna Town Square

A picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Borna.

St. Marien Church

The stunning architecture of this church provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.

Auewald Forest

A lush forest area with winding trails and scenic views, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Borna

Borna offers a delightful culinary scene with traditional German cuisine and local specialties that every visitor should try.

Borna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sauerbraten

A pot roast, usually of beef, marinated before slow-cooking, known for its tender texture and tangy flavor.

Must-Try!

Thüringer Bratwurst

A famous sausage from the Thuringia region, typically grilled and served with mustard and bread.

Bornaer Zwiebelkuchen

A savory onion tart that is a local favorite, often enjoyed during the harvest season.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Borna Weekly Market

Held every Saturday in the town square, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Street Food Fest

An annual event showcasing various street food vendors, featuring regional delicacies and international cuisine.

Climate Guide

Weather

Borna experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and are generally pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Punctuality

Being on time is very important in German culture, so be sure to arrive at your scheduled time.

Dining Manners

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to keep your hands on the table.

Safety Guide

Safety

Borna is considered a safe town for travelers, with low crime rates. However, typical precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical needs.

Tipping in Borna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to round up the bill or leave around 5-10% at restaurants, depending on the service.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's good to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures and long days are perfect for exploring parks and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

The fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, and local harvest festivals are a highlight during this season.

Winter

Cold weather can be expected, with occasional snowfall, making it a cozy time to enjoy local holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Borna at Night

Borna's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a cozy pub scene with local bars and live music venues. Many pubs feature regional beers and host events like trivia nights and local music performances. There are also a few clubs catering to younger crowds, although they are not as prevalent. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to socialize and unwind.

Hiking in Borna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bornaer Höhenweg

A scenic trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for both casual and experienced hikers.

Zwenkauer See Trail

This picturesque route around Zwenkauer Lake is perfect for a leisurely hike, with opportunities for swimming and picnicking along the way.

Airports

How to reach Borna by plane.

Leipzig/Halle Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Borna, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Borna is a walkable town, with a compact layout that makes it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, and the town center features pedestrian-friendly streets. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the local parks provide pleasant walking paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

An emerging demographic in Borna, attracted by job opportunities and the town's growing amenities.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Borna for its peaceful environment, affordability, and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a very popular sport in Borna, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Handball

Handball has a strong following in the area, with clubs for all ages and competitive leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Borna is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect the town with nearby cities and attractions, though schedules may vary. Walking and cycling are also popular, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Borna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to inquire about meat broths used in soups.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available in some restaurants, though it's best to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Borna is good, with several clinics and a hospital providing a range of services. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are well-stocked with both prescription and over-the-counter medications. European travelers should carry an EHIC card for medical coverage, while other visitors may want to secure travel insurance.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide