Things To Do
in Zittau

Zittau is a charming town located in the southeastern part of Germany, near the borders of Poland and the Czech Republic. It boasts a rich history, evident in its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Zittau Mountains, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore its historic old town, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the unique blend of German, Polish, and Czech influences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Zittau Town Hall and its beautiful clock tower, followed by a stroll through the historic old town to admire the medieval buildings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zittau Museum to learn about the town's history and culture, then take a leisurely walk in the nearby Zittau Mountains National Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing evening at a café with a view of the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the Zittau Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and the serene natural environment.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the local markets to sample traditional snacks and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local brewery for dinner and to taste the regional beers while enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$12
Coffee$3
🚍Public Transportation Ticket$2
🛍️Souvenirs$10
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities available.
  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Friendly and welcoming local residents.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier if not familiar with German.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Zittau

Visit one of these nice places.

Zittau Town Hall

The stunning architecture of the Town Hall with its clock tower is a must-capture.

Zittau Mountains

Capture the breathtaking views and natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Church of St. John

A historic church featuring beautiful stained glass windows and intricate details.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zittau

Zittau's culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional German dishes and influences from neighboring countries. Must-try local dishes include hearty potato dumplings, rich meat stews, and delicious pastries. Street food and food markets provide an excellent opportunity to sample local flavors, while restaurants showcase the best of regional cuisine.

Zittau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Schlesische Kartoffelklöße

Traditional Silesian potato dumplings served with meat dishes or gravy.

Must-Try!

Zittauer Bier

Local beer brewed in Zittau, known for its rich flavor and quality.

Käsekuchen

A creamy cheesecake that is a popular dessert in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zittau Market Square

A vibrant market held weekly where local vendors sell fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.

Food Stalls at Local Festivals

Various food stalls offering street food during cultural festivals throughout the year.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zittau experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall common. Summers are warm, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making these seasons particularly pleasant for visiting.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the common greeting; it's polite to greet with 'Hallo' or 'Guten Tag'.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued; late arrivals are often seen as disrespectful.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table but not your elbows, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zittau is generally a safe town for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to remain vigilant and take common safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services are easily reachable, and English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Tipping in Zittau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of 5-10% at restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to hiking trails and lakes, and various events take place.

Autumn

The fall foliage creates picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall provide opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Zittau at Night

Zittau offers a relaxed nightlife scene with several bars and pubs, particularly in the old town area. Visitors can enjoy local beers and wines, as well as live music at various venues. While the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, it provides a cozy atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Zittau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Schwarzer Berg Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the Zittau Mountains and surrounding valleys.

Zittauer Gebirge Circular Trail

This circular trail provides a comprehensive tour of the area, showcasing diverse landscapes and flora.

Airports

How to reach Zittau by plane.

Dresden Airport (DRS)

Located approximately 130 km from Zittau, Dresden Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zittau is quite walkable, especially in the old town area, where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy walking distance. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks. However, some areas may have steep inclines, particularly near the Zittau Mountains.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Older Adults

Zittau has a significant population of older adults, often seen participating in community events and social activities.

Students

With a nearby university, the student demographic adds vibrancy to the local culture and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Zittau, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Hiking

The surrounding Zittau Mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking, attracting outdoor enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zittau is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns and cities; however, schedules may vary. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated lanes in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zittau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some establishments provide gluten-free options, though availability may vary.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Zittau are well-equipped, with several clinics and a hospital providing comprehensive medical care. Emergency services are accessible, and pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide