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15 Best Things to Do and See in Riga, Latvia

Evelyn Gac — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 12:56:47 +0000

Is it worth going to Riga? After more than three days in the capital of Latvia, I can say that it’s a great city if you want to explore at your own pace. You can eat delicious food, it’s green, not too hot, and simply pleasant. And although the city is tourist-friendly, it’s not overcrowded, retaining an authentic, local atmosphere.

From Thursday to Sunday, I didn’t manage to see everything I wanted, but I think traveling isn’t about checking places off a list. Most importantly, as I planned, I had a great time and felt the vibe of the city. I liked the city enough that I would gladly return, and feeling like you missed out on something is actually the best reason to come back.

Welcome to exploring Riga – below you’ll find attractions and recommended places.

Old Town

The oldest part of Riga, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An ideal place for an evening walk! It impresses with a variety of architectural styles – from Romanesque to Modernism.

Art Nouveau Riga

Riga spoils you with Art Nouveau buildings. Albert Street is a real treasury of full-scale, historic Art Nouveau buildings. I love such places and was totally enchanted there. Be sure to visit the museum-apartment with authentic interiors from 1903. Every detail in it is captivating!

The turn of the 19th and 20th centuries left Riga with an unparalleled heritage – a wealth of Art Nouveau architecture. Walking along Elizabetes and Alberta Streets, you can admire real masterpieces of this style. Each tenement house tells its own story, full of fancy details, sculptures, and ornaments. This architectural legacy makes Riga one of the most important destinations for Art Nouveau enthusiasts in Europe.

The Three Brothers

In the heart of Riga, there is a unique ensemble of three medieval houses known as “The Three Brothers”. Each of these buildings represents a different century, creating a fascinating architectural panorama of past eras. The oldest one, dating back to around 1490, amazes with Gothic details. Nowadays, this historic complex houses the Museum of Architecture, offering visitors a fascinating journey through centuries of Riga’s construction.

House of the Blackheads

This impressive building, originally built in the 14th century, has witnessed many events in Riga’s history. For centuries, it served as a meeting place for merchants and sailors known as the Blackheads. Destroyed during World War II, it was meticulously rebuilt in 1999. Today, it offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing Riga’s architectural and historical wealth.

Riga Castle

The majestic Riga Castle, originally built by the Livonian Order of Knights, has survived the city’s turbulent history. Over the centuries, it served various rulers, was destroyed and rebuilt, eventually becoming the residence of the President of Latvia. An exception was the Soviet period, when it was turned into a Palace of Youth. Today, after extensive renovation, the castle is regaining its former splendor, and the Latvian flag proudly flies on its tower.

Fun fact: although the museum is under renovation, you can visit the presidential part when the President of Latvia is away. We took advantage of this extraordinary opportunity, and it was an interesting experience.

Central Market

One of the largest marketplaces in Europe, a must-see for every lover of cuisine and local specialties. A great place for lunch and souvenir shopping. Five huge halls, originally Zeppelin hangars, have served as a bustling shopping center since 1930. It’s not just a shopping place but also a meeting spot for locals: the buzz of conversations and the colorful stalls create a unique atmosphere. This is where you can best experience local cuisine and customs.

Bonus: right next to it is the Academy of Sciences Palace, which is worth seeing.

Cathedral Square

The central point of the Old Town. Dominated by the impressive Riga Cathedral, whose construction began in the 13th century. This architectural gem combines Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau elements. A special attraction of the cathedral is the monumental organs from 1884, considered one of the finest in Europe.

National Library of Latvia

This impressive building, called the “Castle of Light”, is not only a library but a true cultural and scientific center. It’s a place where you can not only delve into collections but also participate in conferences, exhibitions, and festivals. Entry is free, and the view from the terrace is priceless! The city panorama is breathtaking!

Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

This fascinating museum, one of the oldest in Europe, is located in a historic complex of buildings adjacent to the cathedral. Sixteen exhibition halls lead visitors through more than 800 years of Riga’s history. The 18th-century Column Hall, an architectural jewel of the museum, is particularly impressive.

Nativity of Christ Cathedral

This monumental temple, the largest Orthodox cathedral in Riga, is impressive not only from the outside but especially from the inside. The interior is adorned with beautiful Byzantine-style frescoes and early Christian ornaments. The cathedral’s history reflects Latvia’s turbulent past – during Soviet times, it housed a planetarium and a café. Today, after renovation, the cathedral once again serves as a place of worship and is an important landmark on Riga’s map. Note: photography inside is not allowed!

Powder Tower

This powerful tower, the only one surviving out of 28 from Riga’s former defensive walls, has guarded the city’s history since the 14th century. Initially known as the Sand Tower, it later gained the name Powder Tower due to the gunpowder stored in it. Today, it houses a fascinating War Museum, telling the turbulent history of the city and region.

Freedom Monument

This monumental symbol of Latvia’s independence was erected in 1935 thanks to the generosity of citizens. The monument, consisting of thirteen groups of sculptures, tells the country’s history through symbols and allegories. It’s not just a work of art but also a place of national pride and remembrance of those who fought for Latvia’s freedom.

St. Peter’s Church

This Gothic architectural gem, dating back to the 13th century, is one of Riga’s most recognizable symbols. The church was known for having the tallest wooden tower in Europe, which repeatedly fell victim to fires and wars. Today, after careful reconstruction, the tower offers a breathtaking view of the Old Town and the Daugava River.

Bastejkalns Park

Bastejkalns, or Bastion Hill, is a picturesque park located in the center of Riga, right next to the Old Town. The park was established on the site of the city’s former defensive walls, and its landscape was designed in a romantic style with numerous paths, bridges, and artificial waterfalls.

Food in Riga

Riga is great if you are looking for a city with good eateries. You can eat cheaply and deliciously, or indulge in a Michelin guide feast for your taste buds. Here are some recommendations:

Restaurants for dinner – from the Michelin guide :

Vincents – a Riga classic. Book early! A delightful experience – dinner at its best!
Barents – an exquisite menu and exceptional culinary art!

For dessert:

MiiT – the best cakes I’ve ever had. I could live on their cakes alone!
Gelato Italia – great ice cream.
Mulberry – also great ice cream.

For breakfast:

MiiT – very good breakfast.
Gimlet Nordic Cocktail Bar – brunch (the bar itself is a must-see and worth visiting for its decor alone).

Where to Stay in Riga?

There are plenty of accommodation options. We stayed at the Radisson Old Town hotel – it has a great location, especially if you want to get up early for sightseeing and taking photos. Room 503 has a great view of the tower and the city, and it also has a whirlpool bathtub. You can find the hotel here.

Getting Around Riga

Public transportation is well-developed. You can easily buy a ticket in the mobile app or from the driver (more expensive). I used the Bolt app – it’s great for electric scooters, which are a fast and pleasant way to get around. A single trip around the city costs 1.5 euros.

I hope you will feel like exploring Riga after reading this guide and enjoy it as much as I did!

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How to Spend a Day in Frankfurt (Oder)

Evelyn Gac — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:41:14 +0000

We began our tour of Brandenburg at the Polish-German border in Słubice, located across the Oder River. A bridge connects the two cities, Słubice and Frankfurt (Oder), and interestingly, before 1945, they were one city. It was only the change of borders after World War II that divided them into two separate towns.

Although heavily damaged during the war, Frankfurt (Oder) is worth visiting. We spent a day there, and I hope this post will encourage you to take a short trip to this city. Before I start, I want to highlight that many historic buildings have not been rebuilt. This makes Frankfurt (Oder) a city that prompts reflection on how much war can take away.

I invite you to join me as I recount what’s worth seeing in Frankfurt (Oder).

What to Know About Frankfurt (Oder)?

Frankfurt (Oder) is a city with over 750 years of history and a population of just under 60,000. Currently, it is the fourth largest city in Brandenburg.

As mentioned in the introduction, after the Potsdam Agreement, Frankfurt became a border town, and the former Dammvorstadt district became the Polish town of Słubice. Previously, due to battles between the Red Army and retreating German troops, Frankfurt (Oder) was destroyed by nearly 93%—a fact I want to emphasize, as it makes Frankfurt a city that invites reflection. The contrast between new and old architecture reminds us of the costs of war. While there may not be the most beautiful historic townhouses here, every remaining piece of history is appreciated all the more for it.

It’s worth taking a walk around the city, and today I invite you on such a walk, starting from Słubice.

Wikipedia Monument

Various initiatives and ideas exist to commemorate the contributions of Wikipedia and its contributors. One of these is located in Słubice, near the Polish-German border. It commemorates Wikipedia as a source of knowledge and a symbol of intercultural cooperation, as well as a tool promoting openness and free access to information.

Viewpoint over Frankfurt

Here, it’s worth noting the European University Viadrina, with faculties on both the German and Polish sides. In Słubice, there’s a terrace on the roof of Collegium Polonicum, where you can admire the panorama of Frankfurt. It’s especially picturesque at sunset. The key can be picked up from the porter’s lodge.

Next, we cross the border via the bridge connecting the two cities and find ourselves on the German side.

Town Hall

The Gothic town hall in Frankfurt (Oder) is truly beautiful. Built in the 14th century, it has long served as the administrative heart of the city. Its architecture is a real gem of Gothic style, with impressive pointed arch windows and a facade adorned with incredible precision and richness of detail. Walking along its walls, one can admire the craftsmanship of the old building masters.

It resembles the town hall in Lübeck and, although significantly damaged during World War II like many other buildings in Frankfurt (Oder), it was carefully rebuilt after the war, preserving many original elements and details.

St. Mary’s Church

The Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary was the main parish church of Frankfurt (Oder), built in the North German Brick Gothic style in 1253. It was heavily damaged in 1945 during intense fighting. Its restoration only began in 1979. Today, it serves as a social and cultural center and a venue for various events.

It was not until 2002 that Russia returned 111 stolen medieval stained-glass windows from the years 1360-1370, which is the only successful restitution of art looted by the Soviets so far. These stained-glass windows constitute the most important cohesive collection of medieval stained-glass windows in all of Brandenburg.

Tower of St. Mary’s Church

From the 67-meter tower, you can enjoy a remarkable view of Frankfurt and the Oder landscape.

From May to the end of September, the tower is open from 10 am to 5:30 pm, and from October to the end of April from 11 am to 3:30 pm. Admission is 3.5 EUR.

Bolfrashaus Building

This Renaissance building, transformed in the 16th century by councilor Michael Bolfras (hence its name), is one of the exceptional spots in Frankfurt. In the past, it was one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the city and still impresses today.

However, its history could have ended very differently. During the bombing on April 22, 1945, it was heavily damaged and waited for decades for the opportunity to be rebuilt. This finally happened in recent years, thanks to funds from the European Union. Today, the building houses a tourist information center (Polish-German).

Promenade

The promenade stretches from Ziegenwerder to the winter port and is ideal for walks and relaxation with a splendid view of the Oder. There are walking paths, benches, and a playground for children. It’s a great place to start a walk along the river, admire nature, and the contrasting city.

Along the promenade, there’s the Peace Bell, commemorating the signing of the peace treaty on the Oder-Neisse border, resulting from the Görlitz Agreement. Every year, on September 1, the bell rings on the occasion of World Peace Day, symbolizing hope for lasting peace and cooperation between nations.

Parks in Frankfurt

Frankfurt (Oder) is famous for its numerous parks, which are true green oases in the city. One of the most charming is the park on Ziegenwerder Island, located on the Oder. It’s worth visiting while walking along the aforementioned promenade—it’s a real escape from the city, even though you’re still in the city.

Other parks worth noting include:

Lennépark – named after Peter Joseph Lenné, a famous German landscape architect. This park is characterized by carefully designed alleys, picturesque water bodies, and ancient trees.

Kleistpark – located in the central part of the city, named after Heinrich von Kleist, a German poet and playwright. It’s a place for residents to gather and for cultural events.

Gertraudpark – a smaller but charming park, named after St. Gertrude, the patron saint of gardeners.

Helenesee

Speaking of Frankfurt (Oder), we can’t forget about Helenesee. This lake, also known as the “little Baltic Sea,” is one of the cleanest lakes in Germany. Located in the protected landscape area of the Oder-Spree lake region, it covers 250 hectares and is 8 km south of Frankfurt (Oder).

On the lake’s shore, there are beaches and numerous attractions for water sports enthusiasts. Add to this the available bike paths or walks in the area, picnics on grassy areas, and you have a perfect afternoon plan.

Art in Frankfurt (Oder)

Undeniably, Frankfurt is known for its art, especially alternative art. If you are interested in this topic, be sure to visit two places: MAGISTRALE KUNSTHALLE and KUMA Gerstenberg, where particularly in the evenings, artistic projects take place.

MAGISTRALE KUNSTHALLE is a place worth visiting to immerse yourself in the alternative art scene. You’ll find various exhibitions, innovative approaches, and lively performances here.

KUMA Gerstenberg, on the other hand, is a space that becomes a venue for art projects in the evenings, often combining visual art, theater, music, and other forms of artistic expression.

Comic-Brunnen Fountain.

What’s Next?

These are not all the attractions of Frankfurt (Oder). During a one-day visit, you won’t see everything, but it allows you to delve into the history and atmosphere of the city. We moved on to Potsdam. You can see the travel plan at this link: What to see in Brandenburg? An original trip plan.

If you are planning trips around Germany, check out the following posts:

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Angermünde – an Atmospheric Town Near the Polish Border

Evelyn Gac — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:55:57 +0000

I love visiting holiday, little-known towns with a storybook atmosphere. It’s rare that I find such charming gems, but this year I have had incredible luck finding such places. Recently, I visited Brandenburg and was captivated by Angermünde, a town located by Lake Mündesee. This is a place where time seems to slow down, peaceful and picturesque. It is only 25 minutes from Poland, so I think it is an ideal spot for a trip if you want to feast your eyes and recharge your batteries.

Let’s explore Angermünde; I hope the photos taken by Maciek will help capture the amazing atmosphere of the town.

Old Town in Angermünde

It is worth knowing that although the town is small, Angermünde is one of the largest municipalities in Germany, comparable in size to Dresden or Munich.

The historic appearance of the old town has been largely preserved. With the exception of a few buildings, all in the town center have been renovated, especially the Franciscan monastery and St. Mary’s Church. The square layout of the town, dating back to around 1230, is a testament to careful urban planning.

City Walls

Angermünde was deliberately founded, which is evident in the orderly layout of its spaces. The impressive churches and the defensive wall that still partially surrounds the Old Town are witnesses to ancient times. A walk along the walls is over 2 kilometers. The Powder Tower, which is part of the city walls, can also be visited. It is a great viewpoint, measuring 18 meters high. These historic buildings remind us of the years when Angermünde was a center of trade and craftsmanship. More specifically, the town was located at the crossroads of important trade routes.

Castle Ruins

In the town, there are the ruins of a small castle. Built presumably in the 12th century, only the outer walls remain today. This structure is made of brick, with its foundations of boulders and fieldstones.

Market Square and Town Hall in Angermünde

The market square in Angermünde is undeniably charming. You can sit in a café, have a coffee, or admire the unusual, multi-part fountain that tells the history of the town. There is a boat, a cat, and figures symbolizing the town’s residents.

The Baroque town hall was built in 1699. Currently, exhibitions can be admired on the first floor of the town hall, and right in front of it stands a wooden donkey. The donkeys have been there since 1713 – in the past, fraudsters had to ride it as punishment.

St. Mary’s Church

The main Protestant church in Angermünde is the medieval city parish church of St. Mary. Built in the 13th century from fieldstone blocks, it achieved its current appearance in the 15th and 16th centuries through brick-Gothic style extensions and renovations. The interior features furnishings from 1868. We can admire the Baroque organ, made by Joachim Wagner between 1742-1744, consisting of about 2000 pipes. The church is not open daily, but events are held there, including extraordinary concerts on the aforementioned organ. If you want to visit, you can get more details at the information center next to the town hall.

Mündesee

You can’t talk about Angermünde without mentioning Mündesee. It is a picturesque lake with an area of 122 hectares. The route around the lake is just under 8 kilometers, but you can also walk a shorter promenade. Interestingly, in the past, Mündesee was used by women to do laundry. In the middle of the lake, on a shoal under the water’s surface, lies a boulder.

Angermünde is connected to three key long-distance bike routes: the Uckermärkische trail, the Berlin-Usedom route, and the Oder-Neisse path.

City of Stone

Angermünde hosts the largest rock sculpture conference in northern Europe. Therefore, while walking around the old town and along the lake promenade, you can come across picturesque sculptures. The sculptures are made from glacial erratics from the Uckermark region, as well as large stones from the ice age, weighing several tons.

Franciscan Monastery Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

The monastery church, the only surviving building of the former Franciscan complex, is one of the oldest and most important monuments not only of the town but also of the entire Brandenburg. Currently, we can admire it only from the outside; entry is possible only during important events.

Angermünde Museum

In the Market Square, you can admire the renovated half-timbered houses that directly adjoin the town hall. This building ensemble was erected in 1692-1695 and is a key element of the historic center of Angermünde. More precisely, it houses the Angermünde Local History Museum, founded in 1913 by the Angermünde Local History Association.

Angermünde Zoo

Angermünde Zoo, founded in 1963, is the only zoo in the Uckermark region. On an area of 7 hectares, about 250 animals live, representing 45 species from different continents. One of the zoo’s unique attractions is the collection of all six species of camels: the dromedary, Bactrian camel, guanaco, llama, alpaca, and vicuña.

If you are planning a trip to Brandenburg, I highly recommend visiting this town. Angermünde charmed me with its atmosphere and ambiance. Besides, it is truly beautiful. It was the last stop on my journey through Germany, and I sincerely regretted that it was already time to return home. I will come back to Angermünde, this time for a leisurely vacation.

And if you are looking for travel inspiration in Germany, check out the following posts:

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What to See in Brandenburg? Original Plan for the Trip

Evelyn Gac — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 08:32:02 +0000

What to see in Brandenburg? Potsdam had long been at the top of my list of places to see. I really wanted to see this beautiful city, full of gardens and palaces, and that’s why this year’s trip around Germany was particularly significant for me. However, the list of interesting attractions in Brandenburg is actually much longer, and during this year’s journey, I managed to visit some of them.

Below you will find a ready-made travel plan that also includes lesser-known treasures of Brandenburg. There are suggestions for lovers of culture, nature, history, technology, and even shopping. It was a trip where “everyone finds something for themselves,” because that’s what Brandenburg is like: diverse and surprising.

I hope you will follow in my footsteps, so I invite you to read the article.

Frankfurt (Oder)

We started our trip in Słubice, on the Polish-German border. From there, we cross the bridge to Frankfurt (Oder). An interesting fact is that in the past, Słubice and Frankfurt were one city, which was divided after the border changes in 1945. Today, Frankfurt has just under 60,000 inhabitants and has been cooperating with Polish Słubice for years due to its border location. It’s worth noting the European University Viadrina, which has departments on both the German and Polish sides. There is also an excellent viewpoint on Frankfurt in Słubice (Collegium Polonicum), especially picturesque at sunset (you can get the key to the terrace from the porter).

And what is worth seeing in Frankfurt? First and foremost, it’s worth walking around the city. Visit the St. Mary’s Church, tour the interior, and climb the church tower (the entrance to the tower is paid). Frankfurt is famous for its art, including alternative art. If you are interested in this topic, visit two places: MAGISTRALE KUNSTHALLE and KUMA Gerstenberg (an evening art project is available).

This city suffered greatly during World War II, and a significant part of the buildings was not rebuilt. In my opinion, this makes Frankfurt one of those cities that make you think: the contrast between the “new” and the “old” architecture reminds us of the costs of war. At the same time, the city shows that destruction can become an impulse to create a new identity.

Designer Outlet Berlin

This place made it to the list for a reason. A lot of Poles come here for shopping. Why? It’s on the way to Berlin, the prices are actually lower (up to -70%, at least -30% off the tag price), and there is a wide selection of stores. However, it must be admitted that this shopping center is primarily beautiful: it was designed in the style of a village, specifically to reflect local architecture. Personally, I am waiting for such an outlet in Poland.

An interesting fact: from Berlin, you can get to Designer Outlet Berlin for free by public transport (bus).

Potsdam

If you haven’t been to Potsdam, you have certainly heard about it. And if not, now is the time to discover why it is so special and worth visiting.

First and foremost, the park, gardens, and palaces are noteworthy. Visiting the Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam is an exceptional experience, as the interiors are truly beautiful. You will learn the history inside, now for the specifics: the audio tour takes about an hour. However, keep in mind that the entrance ticket to the palace is tied to a specific time slot. To avoid any inconveniences, it’s worth arriving on time. This ticket not only allows entry to the Sanssouci Palace but also grants access to all other palaces in Potsdam for the entire day.

It is worth taking a guided walk through the picturesque Sanssouci Park. You can tour on your own, but a guided tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about the picturesque corners, history, and secrets of this beautiful garden. We toured with Johannes Westerkamp, who passionately talked about the curiosities related to the park, its architecture, and its role in the lives of kings and aristocrats.

It’s worth visiting the historic center of Potsdam. You can start exploring the city from the Dutch Quarter, characterized by picturesque brick buildings. Then head to the Old Market, the city’s central point. Here you can admire magnificent buildings, such as St. Nicholas Church. Nearby is the New Market, which is somewhat less majestic but much more intimate and equally beautiful. Don’t forget to see the Russian Colony Alexandrowka. This unique place, full of wooden houses, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Eberswalde

Eberswalde is also called the forest town because it is surrounded by forest areas – in the south, there is the Barnim Nature Park, and in the north, the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve with the Plagefenn Reserve. The forests near the city offer numerous hiking trails and bike paths.

Until the fall of the Berlin Wall, the city was based on heavy industry, including a steel rolling mill and a crane factory. Today, part of the former factories has been transformed into cafes, shops, and a family garden “Familiengarten.” In this park, you can see and climb the former assembly crane; there are many attractions for children (slides, houses, playgrounds) and even an underground route for pedal boats. The entrance fee is 4 euros for adults and 2 euros for children, so the price is really low. As for other places, one of the main attractions of the city is the zoo. Besides, you can visit the botanical garden (free), the museum, and really relax in nature.

Niederfinow Boat Lift

The next point of our journey was Niederfinow, more precisely, the two boat lifts located there. The boat lifts are at the eastern end of the Oder-Havel Canal. The difference in levels between the upper and lower sections of the canal is 36 meters. The first steel-constructed lift, commissioned on March 21, 1934, is the oldest operating boat lift in Germany. The lift is enormous, with a trough measuring 83.5 m in length, 11.5 m in width, and designed for ships up to 1,000 tons. The second lift, commissioned on October 5, 2022, is even larger: the trough measures 113 m in length, 12.5 m in width, and is designed for ships up to 2,300 tons.

That’s enough dry facts, let’s move on to the tour. We can take a 1.5-hour cruise, during which we will use the lift twice, going up and down. With a bit of luck, we might get to use both lifts. We were not that lucky and used the new lift twice. Besides the cruise, it’s worth taking a guided tour of the lift, also available in Polish (Tuesdays and Saturdays, but it’s better to check the days in advance). Tickets can be purchased at the information center, where there is also an exhibition dedicated to the new boat lift, which can be visited for free.

This is one of those places that is not only a technical marvel but also makes you think about the direction of transportation development: practically from the Polish-German border to the Netherlands, goods can be transported using rivers and canals.

More information: https://schiffshebewerk-niederfinow.com/pl/besichtigungen/

Angermünde

My last stop was the town of Angermünde. Located by Lake Mündesee, Angermünde is a place where time seems to flow more slowly.

The square layout of the city, dating back to around 1230, is a testament to careful urban planning . Angermünde was founded in a thoughtful way, which can be seen in the harmony and order of its space. Impressive churches and the defensive wall surrounding the Old Town are a testimony to the old times. These historic buildings remind us of the years when Angermünde was a center of trade and crafts. This town, situated at the intersection of important trade routes, quickly gained importance.

The town’s atmosphere and charm captivated me. I highly recommend visiting Angermünde if you like peaceful, well-maintained towns. I greatly regretted that it was time to return home, so I will return to Angermünde, this time for a leisurely vacation.

An interesting fact: Angermünde hosts the largest stone sculpture conference in northern Europe. So while walking around the town, you can come across sculptures made from boulders weighing several tons.

What to see in Brandenburg?

Of course, these are not all the attractions worth seeing in Brandenburg. This region has much more to offer, which I hope to discover in the future.

On my list of places are primarily three places:

– Cottbus

– Forst (Lausitz) Rose Garden

– Branitz Palace

If you are planning trips around Germany, check out the following posts:

This post was created in cooperation with the German Tourist Organization (advertisement). Thank you for the invitation and the wonderful trip.

The post What to See in Brandenburg? Original Plan for the Trip appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

Exploring Bautzen: A Journey Through the City’s Best Attractions

Evelyn Gac — Mon, 27 May 2024 17:29:46 +0000

Bautzen is located just 40 minutes from the Polish border. This city, full of monuments and attractions, stands out primarily for its beautiful architecture. Here’s an interesting fact: in 1002, the city was annexed to Poland, and in 1018, a peace treaty was signed here between Bolesław I the Brave and Henry II. Read on if you want to find out what is worth seeing in Bautzen!

Cathedral of St. Peter

The Cathedral of St. Peter is the oldest and one of the largest simultaneous churches in the region. Located in the Fleischmarkt square in the Old Town, it is one of the most important sacred buildings in the area.

The first church on this site was built as early as the year 1000. After a fire in the 17th century, the building was rebuilt in the Baroque style. In the chancel, you can admire a life-sized crucifix made of limewood by Balthasar Permoser. Interestingly, a family named Kuschel lives at the top of the church tower. There are 217 steps leading to their apartment!

Castle (Ortenburg)

Ortenburg stands in the center of the Old Town. It was built before the year 1000, when the Germans erected it on the site of a captured fort. In later years, it was rebuilt by Matthias Corvinus, the then King of Hungary. The most interesting building in the castle complex is the Matthias Tower, named in his honor.

The castle has retained its Gothic decor with later Renaissance additions. Around the castle, you can still see fragments of defensive walls with towers.

Town Hall and Main Market Square

The Town Hall in Bautzenis located in the Old Town near the aforementioned castle. It is one of the most recognizable buildings in Bautzen. Its original was built in 1213, but nothing remains of it due to reconstructions and destructions. The Town Hall acquired its current appearance in the 18th century.

The Main Market Square, located in the historic area near the Town Hall, is bustling with life every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday! Here, many local vendors offer residents and tourists various products such as fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, and handicrafts.

Ruins of St. Nicholas Church

The Gothic St. Nicholas Church was built in 1444. A few years later, a cemetery was also established on its grounds. After an attack on the city in 1620, the church fell into ruin and was never rebuilt despite plans to do so. Today, the enchanting remains of the church still serve as a cemetery, accompanied by a small chapel.

Peace Bridge (Friedensbrücke)

The Peace Bridge in Bautzen is one of the largest stone arch bridges in Saxony. It spans the Spree Valley at a height of 20 meters and is 181 meters long. The breathtaking view from the Friedensbrücke is the most common motif of the city, appearing not only in photographs but also on book covers related to Saxony.

Defensive Towers

Bautzen has 17 defensive towers. That’s a record number! You can even climb some of them. Although I won’t tell you about all of them, I will describe a few of the most characteristic ones.

Leaning Tower (Reichenturm)

The Leaning Tower is 56 meters high and leans by 1.41 meters. Its history dates back to the 15th century. After a series of destructions, the city decided to place a baroque dome on the tower. Safety measures prevented the tower from toppling during World War II. In 2016, the tower was renovated. From the viewing platform, you can see the Old Town.

Old Waterworks (Alte Wasserkunst)

The Old Waterworks is a tower-shaped building that once served to supply the city with water. It is located near the Mühltor gate in the Old Town and is one of the landmarks of Bautzen.

The listed building is open for tours. In addition to the Technical Museum, it offers a platform that you can reach from the basement by climbing 184 steps. It provides a view of the Lusatian Mountains.

St. Nicholas Tower (Nicolaiturm)

St. Nicholas Tower was built in the 16th century at the northern city gate. Together with the fortified St. Nicholas Church, it guarded the trade route “via Regia.”

During the war, the northern city gate was walled up, and the tower’s dome burned down. Only in 1775 did the dome regain its conical shape.

Matthias Tower (Matthiasturm)

Matthias Tower is the main entrance to the Ortenburg Castle. It is named after the bas-relief of King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary, which is found on the building’s walls. The tower secured access to the castle complex with a drawbridge when the castle was separated from the city by a moat.

Mühltor Gate

This is the smallest medieval gate in Bautzen and also the entrance to the city from the west. It was built after the Hussite attacks in the 15th century. In its current form, it has existed since 1606. The arches of the Mühltor Gate are made of hand-painted bricks.

Sorabian Museum

The Sorabian Museum in Bautzen is a museum of the culture of the Sorbs, one of the four officially recognized national minorities in Germany. It was established in 1900 in the Sorbian House, but was closed by the Nazis and reopened only in 1989.

The museum has gathered about 35,000 exhibits. Most of them belong to the material heritage, but you can also admire photographs and works of Sorbian artists. The museum library has about 6500 volumes.

Museum of Bautzen

The Museum of Bautzen is one of the largest museums in Saxony. It has an area of 2400 m² and collections of about 400,000 items.

The museum visit includes three different sections. On the ground floor, the exhibition covers the period from the first traces of settlement in the region to everyday life in the 19th century. The first floor presents the history of the city. On the second floor, important works of art are displayed.

Mustard Museum

This is a truly unusual museum! The Mustard Museum in Bautzen (“Bautz’ner Senfmuseum”) presents the history of the famous mustard called Bautz’ner Senf. On-site, you can taste dozens of types of handmade mustard. In the shop, in addition to the classics, you will find other interesting products made from mustard seeds.

Witch’s House (Hexenhäusel)

Hexenhäusel is one of the oldest residential buildings in Bautzen, built before 1604 and surviving all fires and wars. According to folk tales, this was because it was protected by a spell cast by a Gypsy witch. The house was reconstructed in 1959-1960 and is listed as a historic monument.

Stasi Prison (Gedenkstätte)

The former Bautzen I and Bautzen II centers, or Stasi prisons, were used in the past to eliminate political enemies during the National Socialist regime.

Today, the former Bautzen II prison serves as the Bautzen Memorial Site. You can visit cells, prison courtyards, and two prisoner transporters. Permanent exhibitions cover the historical background and biographies of the prisoners.

Biosphere Reserve in the Land of a Thousand Ponds

In Saxony, an interesting attraction is also the UNESCO biosphere reserve of the Upper Lusatian Heath and Pond Landscape (also known as the Land of a Thousand Ponds). The region, where the reserve is located, consists of over 350 ponds surrounded by dune forests, meadows, fields, floodplains, and heaths.

The reserve offers diverse conditions for many species. It is home to over 5000 types of animals and plants, of which over 1200 are endangered species. With a bit of luck, you can encounter white-tailed eagles, otters, wolves, or swans there.

House of a Thousand Ponds (Haus der Tausend Teiche)

The House of a Thousand Ponds is a center with tourist information and a souvenir shop. If you visit it, check out the exhibition full of information about the Upper Lusatia landscape and the reserve!

Where to stay in Bautzen

For three nights, we stayed in the center of the Old Town, in a charming hotel ApartOne. Very close to attractions, we had breakfast in a palace nearby + free parking was outside the Old Town. Leaving the link: ApartOne Altstadt-Hotel

Bautzen is an extremely interesting city – and so close to us. If you have the chance, be sure to visit. Which place fascinated you the most? Let us know!

If you’re interested in traveling in Germany, check out my other posts:

The post Exploring Bautzen: A Journey Through the City’s Best Attractions appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

Travel Plan for Costa Brava

Evelyn Gac — Sat, 18 May 2024 14:24:22 +0000

Costa Brava, located north of Barcelona, is a Catalonian coastline stretching over 200 km, from Blanes to the French border. The name “Costa Brava” means “wild coast,” reflecting its picturesque landscapes full of rugged cliffs, coves, and beaches. The crystal-clear sea makes Costa Brava an ideal vacation spot.

Undoubtedly, Costa Brava stands out among other coastlines. Is it worth visiting? Definitely yes! Last year, I spent about two weeks there, and this year, almost a week. In the guide below, you will find a ready-made travel plan for selected places in this region.

Blanes

Blanes is a charming tourist town that was once a typical fishing village. Often called the “gateway to Costa Brava,” it marks the beginning of this scenic Spanish coast. The town is just 70 kilometers from Barcelona, making it an hour’s drive away.

Marimurtra Botanical Garden in Blanes

Marimurtra Botanical Garden is an enchanting place where tourists can admire a rich botanical, architectural, and landscape heritage. It features over 4000 plant species, mostly exotic, and is divided into three sections: European, Mediterranean, and global. It’s a great place to explore and relax, with cliffs and terraces offering stunning views of the coastline.

Lloret de Mar

You’ve probably heard of Lloret de Mar! It’s one of the most popular vacation destinations in Spain, offering a variety of attractions.

During our visit, we explored a segment of the Cami de Ronda trail, which follows the entire coast, touching on cliffs, coves, and towns. We also visited Castell d’en Plaja, which opened to the public just a year ago, and features an interactive VR exhibit that I highly recommend.

We stayed here, in a comfortable hotel with a rooftop pool.

Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is a small town that showcases the beauty of Costa Brava. It’s worth taking a stroll through the Old Town and visiting the “Mirador de Tossa de Mar” viewpoint. Relaxation enthusiasts can enjoy Platja Gran beach, with a castle backdrop.

Vacations in Tossa de Mar – Discover the Extraordinary Beauty of the Costa Brava

Tossa de Mar

Cycling Tour Through Medieval Towns

We began our cycling tour through medieval towns in Baix Empordà, renting electric bikes from Burricleta Centre in Gualta. We visited medieval villages, guided by a tour guide, and enjoyed pastoral views along the way. Our journey took us from Fontanilles to Pals, where we had lunch at Mooma, a restaurant offering a variety of apple dishes from local orchards.

Ruins of Empúries

Empúries, known as Empúries Roman City Ruins, is located in the bay of Roses. It’s the only archaeological site on the Iberian Peninsula where the remnants of the Greek city Empòrion coexist with those of the Roman city Emporiae. The Greek-Roman history of Empúries spanned from the 6th century BCE to the 8th century CE. Even if you’re not a history enthusiast, this place will impress you. The site includes a branch of the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia, showcasing significant artifacts discovered in Empúries.

Roses

Roses in the Girona province is distinguished by its beaches and coves among rocky cliffs. The town hosts two nature reserves: Aiguamolls de l’Empordá and Cap de Creus, ideal for tranquil walks. Some beaches have the Blue Flag symbol, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

We stayed at the highly-rated Hotel Terraza. If you plan to dine there, make sure to reserve a table in advance, as it can get booked up.

Empuriabrava

Empuriabrava, part of Castello d’Empúries municipality, is called the Catalan Venice and is the largest residential marina in Europe, with about 24 kilometers of navigable waterways. In Empuriabrava, you can rent a boat or motorboat, or take a guided tour. The resort also offers a wide beach, perfect for sailing, surfing, or windsurfing, and is a great starting point for visiting the nearby park.

Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Empordà

Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Empordà is a natural park within the Bay of Roses, established in 1983. It is the second-largest wetland in Catalonia, covering over 4800 hectares. The park is a sanctuary for birds, with 329 species, including many protected ones. We saw beautiful flamingos, glossy ibises, purple and little egrets, and even storks. The park offers picturesque views of the Pyrenees, so don’t forget your camera for unique photos!

Figueres

Figueres, globally known as the home of Salvador Dalí, is a city with a typical Catalan atmosphere. Apart from the main attraction, the Salvador Dalí Museum, Figueres also boasts notable landmarks like the Sant Ferran Castle and medieval city walls. If you visit Figueres, I recommend dining at the restaurant in Hotel Duran.

Salvador Dalí Museum

The Salvador Dalí Museum opened on September 28, 1974, in a building given to Dalí by the mayor of Figueres. The museum is known for its large, transparent dome. Inside, visitors can experience surreal environments showcasing Dalí’s famous works.

Casa Natal Salvador Dalí

The Casa Natal Salvador Dalí is the house where the famous painter was born. Tours include an audio guide through the rooms, featuring interactive exhibits that tell the story of Dalí’s life and how he became famous, with unique visual effects like holograms and kaleidoscopes.

Besalú

Besalú is a charming town near the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Its rich medieval heritage is highlighted by architectural monuments, including a 12th-century Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià River, the Cùria Real building, and the Cornellà residence with a grand arched gallery. Besalú is known for its cobblestone streets.

Banyoles – Lake and Surroundings

Banyoles, located less than twenty kilometers from Girona, is a town built on the shore of Lake Banyoles. Its historic center is organized around Vila Vella and Vila Nova. The lake, with its clear water, is particularly impressive. In Banyoles, you can rent small boats or enjoy fishing. We stayed at La Sala de Camós, housed in a 12th-century Gothic-style building.

Girona

Girona is a modest town with a rich history dating back to Roman times but achieving its current appearance in the medieval period. It is known for its beautiful Old Town, impressive walls, numerous cathedrals, and famous Jewish quarter. Few know that in Girona, you can visit Aqva Gerunda, ancient Roman baths. The place is relatively unknown, so we had the baths almost to ourselves.

We spent our last night at Hotel Ciutat de Girona. For a meal in Girona, head to El Foment, where you can taste authentic Catalan cuisine. More attractions in Girona can be found in this post.

If you’re looking for more attractions in Catalonia, check out the entries below:

Discover the Hidden Gems of Costa Brava: Breathtaking Destinations You Absolutely MUST Visit!

Discover Costa Daurada – Attractions and Beautiful Places

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Görlitz – see the attractions of the city with over 4000 monuments

Evelyn Gac — Sun, 12 May 2024 19:12:00 +0000

Görlitz is a German city located on the Lusatian Neisse River, bordering Poland. It used to form one urban agglomeration with Zgorzelec. This city has over 950 years of history and more than 4000 landmarks, so sightseeing enthusiasts won’t get bored. Moreover, even if sightseeing isn’t your biggest passion, Goerlitz is simply a cool place for a weekend getaway. It’s pretty, has plenty of pubs, and, importantly, it’s close to Poland, so not only is the journey relatively short, but most tourist attractions also have information available in Polish.

I’ll add that seeing all the attractions in a day or two is a challenge. Therefore, it’s better to plan ahead and choose what interests you most. For example, I was particularly interested in the film trail, the Silesian Museum, and I also opted for a guided tour of the city. This way, not only did I learn more, but I could also feel the spirit of the city – our guide told stories with great passion. I’ll provide his contact details later in the post, but for now, let’s go sightseeing!

Lower Market (Untermarkt)

One thing to know is that it’s one of the few cities of similar size in Germany that didn’t suffer destruction during World War II, thus preserving its original layout and buildings from many historical epochs.

The Lower Market is where the wealthiest merchants in Görlitz used to live. It has existed since 1305 and is located near the city hall. The Lower Market is adorned from the south by the baroque Neptune Fountain. However, tourists are mainly drawn to house number 22, adorned by a round, Gothic portal called the “Whispering Arch”: when you whisper something from one end, it can be clearly heard at the other.

Upper Market (Obermarkt)

The Upper Market is one of the largest squares in Görlitz. In the past, the Via Regia trade route passed along it, connecting Eastern and Western Europe. Today, it’s also lively: in the vicinity, among charming buildings, you’ll find many restaurants, cafes, and hotels. When it comes to sightseeing, it’s worth stopping by the tourist information center and visiting the Church of the Holy Trinity or Napoleon’s house.

Görlitz Town Hall

The Görlitz Town Hall was first mentioned in 1369. From the beginning, it served as the seat of power and administration. The complex combines several impressive buildings from different epochs. The tower dates back to 1378 and was expanded in the 16th century. There’s a balcony in the building, used for public announcements. At the stairs, you can admire the statue of Justice, the goddess of justice. The interior of the town hall is from the Renaissance period.

Merchant Houses

The merchant houses in Görlitz, like the Upper Market, were located along the Via Regia route. They belonged to merchants trading with other countries. They form the basis of the architectural complex from the late Middle Ages and the early modern era. The houses served residential, utility, and commercial purposes, with courtyards that turned into market squares. Today, they symbolize the commercial activity in Central Europe of that time. Another famous city on this route is Jarosław, a city in eastern Poland.

City Towers

Görlitz is often called the “city of towers.” If you catch the right time for a tour, you can visit them all in one day! The three main guard towers of the city were part of the historical fortifications. The “Fat Tower” (Dicker Turm) earned its name because of its size — its walls reach a thickness of 5.34 meters. The “Reichenbach Tower” (Reichenbacher Turm) is the tallest of the mentioned towers, standing at 51 meters high. The oldest of them is the “Nicholas Tower” (Nikolaiturm).

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is a unique landmark in the Old Town of Görlitz: its copper-clad roof and towering spires dominate over the Lusatian Neisse. Already in the 13th century, a basilica stood at the current location of the church: its western fragment with a intricately decorated portal has survived. Only in the years 1423-1475 was a new, late Gothic, five-nave hall church built in its place. Special attention should be paid to the sun organs inside – they are enormous!

Upper Lusatian Library of Sciences

The Upper Lusatian Library of Sciences is one of the most beautiful European libraries. Both Polish and foreign sources compare it to the Hogwarts library. In my opinion, there’s something to it, but it’s certainly an important center for collecting and disseminating scientific information, primarily in the region. Its impressive collection of around 150,000 volumes primarily supports science and research but is also available to all interested individual users by appointment. Some of the collections can also be browsed through an online catalog.

Silesian Museum

Schönhof, the building housing the Silesian Museum, is an important structure. One of its three original parts dates back to the 13th century, from the time of Görlitz’s establishment. It served as a merchant’s court, sheltering not only merchants’ guests but also princes and kings. In the 15th century, it was transformed into a merchant’s house. After the city fire in 1525, it was renovated in the Renaissance style.

The museum opened in 2006 and attracts around 30,000 tourists annually. The exhibitions are designed for all those interested in the history and culture of Silesia, including residents of the Polish-German borderland. We spent 2 hours in the Silesian Museum – I would have stayed longer, but they were closing. The history of Silesia was brilliantly told from the beginning to the present day. In my opinion, it’s a must-visit if you live in Silesia.

Holy Sepulchre (Heilige Grab)

The replica of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the stations of the Cross in Görlitz. It belongs to a complex that is a copy of the most important parts of the cultic Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem: it consists of the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the House of Anointing, and the Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre. This complex bears witness to medieval piety and is the best representation of this place in the world.

Synagogue

The synagogue in Görlitz was built in 1911. Thanks to its monumental size and unique form, it’s one of the most interesting examples of synagogue architecture from the early 20th century. Unfortunately, on the night of the pogrom on November 9, 1938, it was set on fire. In the 1980s, a civic campaign was launched to save the building, but renovation began after 1989. Since November 2008 – after meeting the necessary safety requirements – events can once again take place in the synagogue, and the place is open to visitors.

Straßburg Passage

The beginning of the commercial passage was given by a textile shop opened by Otto Strassburg at 7 Berliner Strasse in 1887. The passage gradually expanded and was completed in 1907. Twenty years later, a glass roof was built over it. Today, it is 115 meters long, with numerous commercial stalls along its length. A plaque commemorating Otto Strassburg can be seen at one of the entrances.

Kaufhaus Görlitz

Kaufhaus is a historic building in Görlitz, built as an Art Nouveau department store by the Jewish merchant Louis Friedländer. It’s the only building of its kind from its era that has survived in its original form. The vast and tastefully decorated interiors are captivating – I received many messages on Instagram and Facebook from residents of Zgorzelec who used to shop there. It’s no wonder that when the director from the United States, Wes Anderson, was looking for a location for the film “Grand Budapest Hotel,” he chose the department store in Görlitz. The film crew spent several months in the city.

Currently, the building is closed, only opened for special occasions. We managed to visit it thanks to the hospitality of the local tourist organization.

Görliwood

In Görlitz and its surroundings, other outstanding films with star-studded casts were also shot, such as “Around the World in 80 Days,” “Goethe!,” “Inglourious Basterds,” or “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.” For this reason, it’s worth going on a “Görliwood tour,” i.e., exploring Görlitz following the footsteps of film sets. You can do this with a guide, like Petrus, with whom we toured (he speaks Polish, English, and German).

Oxen Fortress (Ochsenzwinger)

The entrance gate to Ochsenzwinger once connected two bastions, allowing passage and driving cattle from pastures. Today, it serves as the entrance to the Baroque gardens, which were created in 1962-1963 and are a green urban space with a charming terrace with a fountain. The southern part of the gardens, arranged with lawns, trees, shrubs, and seating areas, is very picturesque.

Görlitz Zoo

Görlitz-Zgorzelec Zoo is a really small zoo in Germany, covering 5 hectares. So even those who don’t like long walks will be pleased! You’ll find about 100 species there. There’s no lion, but there are many native species and farm animals. Therefore, their enclosures are carefully adapted to the natural environment. In addition to promoting nature conservation and caring for endangered species, you can directly interact with the animals: feed the donkeys, stay in the same room with the parrots. Additionally, all information is also available in Polish.

I’ve heard a lot of positive reviews about the zoo in Görlitz, that it’s a place where you can see nature in action. Indeed, it’s not a typical zoo with exotic animals. Instead, there are many “ordinary” species, you can watch little chicks grow, feed a goat or a donkey, and observe a raccoon, who’s always up to something.

Berzdorfer See

Berzdorfer See is a huge lake covering over 960 hectares. Its maximum depth is 72 meters. When the wind blows strongly, waves almost like those on the sea are formed! Berzdorfer See offers sandy beaches and relaxing leisure against the backdrop of the Landeskrone mountain. It’s only a few minutes away from the city center, so it’s a great place to relax. In addition to traditional swimming, you can also engage in water sports there.

Accommodation in Görlitz

For two nights, we stayed in the city center, in a spacious apartment. Very tasty breakfasts, tranquility + parking nearby (additional fee). Leaving the link: VIA`s Appartements und Ferienwohnungen

In the charming city of Görlitz, there are so many landmarks and beautiful places that it’s impossible to see everything in one trip! It will be a great destination not only for film or architecture enthusiasts but also for those who like leisurely relaxation. What did you like the most from my list? Let me know!

If you’re interested in traveling in Germany, check out my other posts:

The post Görlitz – see the attractions of the city with over 4000 monuments appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

Keszthely by Lake Balaton – What is Worth Seeing?

Evelyn Gac — Sun, 05 May 2024 17:54:14 +0000

Keszthely is a Hungarian city located on the western shore of Lake Balaton. It has just over 20,000 inhabitants and is the second largest city on the mentioned lake. It is not only a charming resort and bustling tourist center but also an important cultural and educational hub in the region. Keszthely is a great holiday destination due to its beaches, monuments, and streets that you can stroll through endlessly.

Festetics Family Palace

The Festetics Palace is a Baroque palace built in 1745 by Kristóf Festetics. Over the next hundred years, it was gradually expanded – ultimately its size tripled. The final stage of construction took place at the end of the 19th century. Today, the palace consists of 101 rooms and is surrounded by extensive English-style gardens. The building houses a museum telling the story of the founding family.

Many decorative elements in the salons were brought from England in the 19th century by Mary Hamilton, the wife of one of the Festetics – including portraits, furniture, and other decorations. If you visit the famous palace, be sure to pay attention to the Louis XIV Salon, the dining room, the Long Gallery, and the private chapel.

The summer opening hours of the Palace are from April 1st to October 31st. During this time, it is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00. In the remaining months, the property is open to guests from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. The combined family ticket (admission fee to the castle and park) is 7,000 HUF for a family of up to 2 adults and 2 children aged 6-18. Remember that the ticket office closes 1 hour before the end of opening hours.

Helikon Library

The Helikon Library is the only remaining aristocratic library in Hungary. It is the largest of its kind in Europe. The collections miraculously survived World War II and were amassed over nearly two centuries. This place is a dream come true for every book lover.

The library’s collection occupies two floors and consists of up to 100,000 volumes. It includes unique copies, early printed books, numerous artistic and scientific books, as well as a musical collection of manuscripts by Haydn and Goldmark. The oak shelves and furniture of the Helikon Library were carved in 1801 by the craftsman János Kerbl. All of this together makes a huge impression.

Hunting Museum

The Hunting Museum is located in the immediate vicinity of the Festetics Family Palace, specifically behind the castle park. It presents the world of aristocratic customs, such as hunting, and also educates about the wild life of our planet through interesting exhibitions. This makes the museum worth visiting with children.

Among the exhibits, you can admire trophies, carpets made of animal fur, weapons, and paintings depicting animals, which were essential decorations of the former manors and palaces. In the wings of the building, exhibitions presenting about 220 species of wild life from American, Asian, and African rainforests are displayed.

The entrance fee is 1300 HUF for adults and half of that amount for children. Opening hours depend on the season. From July 1st to August 31st, the museum is open from Monday to Sunday (except Wednesday) from 9:00 to 18:00, on Wednesday from 9:00 to 12:00. From September to June, the facility is open from 10:00 to 17:00.

Városi Strand Beach

Városi Strand, or City Beach, is located almost in the center of Keszthely. It covers an area of 35,000 square meters and attracts both tourists and locals with its beauty. In addition to the designated area for typical beach relaxation, there are also courts for playing sports such as volleyball, basketball, and handball.

This is an ideal beach for families with children because one of the main attractions here is the Water Park Keszthely, which will surely appeal to the youngest. In addition to that, there are playgrounds and water games available, and in the summer, animators can take care of the children. Lifeguards are also stationed on the beach to ensure safety. And when you get hungry, you don’t have to worry because you’ll find 12 gastronomic establishments on the City Beach premises.

The ticket office with an adjacent free parking lot is open from 8:30 to 19:00. Admission fees do not exceed 1000 HUF.

Helikon Beach

Helikon Beach is located in the southern part of Keszthely and is the younger sister of Városi Strand. The beach is really spacious, so there is a place for everyone – even if it’s crowded, which doesn’t happen often. It’s worth knowing that the water is shallow for a long time, so children can freely enjoy swimming.

At Helikon Beach, you can rent a water bike for a fee. Sandy fields allow participation in beach sports. What makes it unique? The library has installed a bookshelf with books so you won’t run out of reading materials during breaks from swimming. In shaded, green areas, you can rest from the sun, play chess, and eat something at local pubs.

Libás Beach

The beach is located on the eastern side of Keszthely. In 2000, it was renovated and has been open to the public since then – for a small fee. It is a sandy beach with a shallow coast and a view of boats arriving at the nearby port. Its advantages include modern changing rooms, showers, toilets, fast-food stalls, and a playground. The numerous trees surrounding it provide much-needed shade.

Lake Balaton

The famous Lake Balaton is the largest lake not only in Hungary but also in Central Europe. Its surface covers as much as 592 km². It was formed roughly 20,000 years ago due to the formation of the Carpathian massif and volcanic activity. It is also called the “Hungarian Sea”. It lies in the southwestern part of the country, about 80 kilometers from Budapest. The average depth of the lake is 3 meters.

Balaton is a well-known center for tourism and recreation. The average water temperature during the summer season, which lasts from June to August, is around 23°C. Besides swimming in the lake, popular activities include fishing and sailing. The surrounding areas are truly picturesque, so it’s worth visiting charming vineyards or resorts.

Balaton Museum

The Balaton Museum building in Keszthely houses an extensive collection of information gathered around Lake Balaton. The numerous exhibitions are divided into permanent and temporary ones and together gather around 380,000 objects. The museum is open all year round and offers an interactive, child-friendly program. The main permanent exhibition is divided into 11 rooms and allows you to learn about the history of Lake Balaton.

The museum is a 10-minute walk from the Main Square and Lake Balaton. If you come by car, nearby parking is free.

Church of Our Lady of Hungary

You can easily find the Gothic Church of Our Lady of Hungary on the Main Square. It is the oldest building in Keszthely, dating back to the 14th century. It was founded by the palatine István Lackfy, who was buried in the temple after his execution in 1397 – his tomb can be found on the sanctuary wall. In 1799, the church became the parish church of Keszthely. Inside the temple, you can find the largest Gothic frescoes in Hungary, which were discovered in 1974.

Keszthely definitely has something to boast about. In this city, you certainly won’t get bored – unless deliberately, at the beach. Have you ever been to Hungary? Did you manage to take a dip in the “Hungarian Sea”? I’m curious to hear your answers.

Upper Lusatia – a plan for a trip around Saxony

Evelyn Gac — Fri, 03 May 2024 19:54:52 +0000

If you’re looking for a fantastic road trip idea but don’t want to go too far, I’ve got a really interesting suggestion for you. A trip across our western border, to Saxony, specifically through Upper Lusatia.

If you’ve heard of Muskau Park, Goerlitz, and Bautzen, then you have a rough idea of what to expect. And if not, you’ll see why it’s worth going there, although these are not the only attractions in the travel plan I hope you’ll make use of. I’ll show you a few lesser-known places in the area: there will be a bit of culture, nature, and history.

Welcome to the tour!

Muskau Park

The first item on the agenda is a tour of Muskau Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park covers 728 hectares, so there’s really a lot to admire. You can explore it by bike (mostly), but personally, I recommend touring the park with a guide to better understand its history and the plant species found within.

What’s worth knowing? First of all, that Muskau Park now stretches across the territory of two countries and is divided into three zones. The nearest, around the castle, is precisely laid out and shows the hand of man. The farther part gives the impression of being less planned, and the farthest seems even neglected, especially when we visit Muskau Park in the middle of summer: the grass is long, everything seems to live its own life. This last part is located in Poland – it’s not our neglect, but rather the original intention of the park for these three zones to look like this.

In the park, we’ll find truly remarkable plant specimens. I was surprised by the “handkerchief tree,” or Davidia involucrata. The flowers look like hanging handkerchiefs! Besides that, it’s worth seeing the breathing roots of the bald cypress. Something amazing!

In the park, we can admire two castles. The New Castle was built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. It’s currently burgundy; in the past, it was yellow, so personally, I hope they don’t change its color during renovation.

The place is associated with an extremely eccentric figure: he married for money (and divorced for money), had a romance with his stepdaughter, liked gambling, loved ice cream, adored nature, and today everyone adores him. Hermann Fürst von Pückler-Muskau, the man himself, created this masterpiece on both banks of the Neisse.

Accommodation: For two nights, we stayed in a hotel right by the park in Bad Muskau. Tasty breakfasts, spacious rooms, tranquility + on-site parking. Leaving the link: Kulturhotel Fürst Pückler Park

Cultural Center of Sorbian Lusatia

In the area, we saw four interesting places. We started with a bread and salt welcome at the Sorbian Cultural Center. I learned more about Sorbian culture, history, and language at the museum in Bautzen, but you can also stop here and learn a few interesting things about this culture, which is extremely close to Polish.

What surprised me the most was the similarity of languages – to Polish, similar traditions (kraszanki) or other Easter customs, which today also exist, among others, in the Opole Voivodeship.

Address: Friedenstraße 65, 02959 Schleife

Nochten Park of Boulders – the largest rock garden in Europe

The park is an example of land reclamation after lignite mining. 7000 Scandinavian boulders, set in picturesque gardens, are one of the unique attractions. The boulders are remnants of glaciation, having traveled a long way from Sweden, Norway, or Finland. The park is mostly covered with plants; in the blooming season, thousands of heathers bloom there, and there are picnic areas or playgrounds.

A walk through the park takes about 2-3 hours. At the entrance, I recommend renting an audio guide or downloading the app and playing it directly on your phone.

The place encourages reflection: on one hand, we’ll see how the glacier changed the landscape and moved huge boulders; on the other hand, how humans have again changed the landscape of the place, first by mining coal, and later by planting trees or arranging the park.

More on the official website: www.findlingspark-nochten.de

Kromlau Park

Just across the border, we’ll find a park famous for its azaleas and rhododendrons. Many say it’s one of the most beautiful parks in Germany. And there’s something to it, because we’ve been there twice and even on a cloudy day, it looks amazing! Here you’ll find works made of basalt rock, such as “Heaven and Hell” or the Devil’s Bridge (Rakotzbrücke). There are numerous legends and stories associated with the place. The bridge was built in 1860 so that its reflection in the pond would form a circle.

Returning to the park, in the local Swiss-style castle, weddings are organized, and in another historic building, you can rent accommodation. The place is really beautiful, and I hope to return for the rhododendron bloom.

Entry to the park is free.

Erlichthof Reitschen

Open-Air Museum On the outskirts of Reitschen, we’ll find a reflection of what a Sorbian village from the 19th century might have looked like. The place is a bit at the end of the world, so I’m sure I’m not the only one who liked it. There are numerous wooden houses to visit, each with different exhibitions. For example, in the wolf’s barn, you’ll find an exhibition dedicated to wolves that inhabit this area. There’s also a bakery with a stone oven, a pottery workshop, a chocolate workshop, and much more. Near the settlement, there’s a pond with interactive exhibitions around it.

Entry to the settlement is free. A symbolic fee applies to the museum farm and the wolf’s barn. An audio guide, also available in Polish, can be picked up at the tourist information office; the exhibition in the wolf’s barn is also prepared in Polish. Throughout the year, various events take place here, including antique fairs.

More on the website: https://erlichthofsiedlung.de/

Goerlitz

I’ll start with the obvious thing, but Görlitz is adjacent to Zgorzelec, and previously, until the end of World War II, it was one city. What to see in Görlitz? Görlitz has over 950 years of history, over 4000 monuments, so exploring it in a day or two is a challenge. Therefore, it’s worth choosing what interests us the most beforehand.

I was particularly interested in the film trail – Görlitz is picturesque enough that many films were shot here, including my favorites! “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” “Around the World in 80 Days” (with Jackie Chan). But also others, like “Goethe!,” “The Book Thief,” or “Inglourious Basterds.” We managed to get inside the department store where the film hotel was located, and also learned interesting facts about the making of cookies “from Mendel.” These cookies were also made in Görlitz, but making them was so difficult that they melted after two hours. The lady who made them had to make hundreds of them, and they were only shown a few times in the movie.

I’ve heard a lot of good things about the zoo in Görlitz, that it shows how nature works in this place. I went to see it, and indeed, it’s not a typical zoo with exotic animals; instead, there are many “ordinary” species, you can watch tiny chicks grow, feed a goat or a donkey, watch a raccoon scheming.

I’ll talk about the city itself soon in a separate post, but apart from walking around the Old Town, it’s worth seeing one of the most beautiful libraries, containing 40,000 volumes. An amazing place: you can view books by appointment and following procedures (including gloves). The original name of the place: Oberlausitzische Bibliothek der Wissenschaften.

We toured the city with Petrus – a Dutchman who speaks Polish very well, having lived in Wroclaw and Legnica before, so not only is the city interesting, but the tour itself was really fascinating.

Accommodation: For two nights, we stayed in the city center, in a spacious apartment. Very tasty breakfasts, tranquility + parking nearby (additional fee). Leaving the link: VIA`s Appartements und Ferienwohnungen

Bautzen

I invite you to visit Bautzen, or as we call it, Budziszyn. Bautzen is located 40 minutes from the Polish-German border. In addition to its beautiful architecture and historical curiosities, in 1002, the city was annexed to Poland. The famous Budziszyn Peace Conference also took place here after the Polish-German war. The city has quite a few museums, some with exhibitions or audio guides in Polish.

Today, the city is famous for its MUSTARD! It’s worth going to the Mustard Museum and to a restaurant that serves dishes with mustard. If you’re going to Bautzen, it’s definitely worth eating at this very mustardy place.

In Bautzen, there are 17 defense towers – some of which you can climb, so it’s definitely an additional attraction. There’s the Leaning Tower, and at the top of the cathedral tower, the Kuschel family lives. To get to the apartment, you have to climb 217 stairs, and as you can imagine, there’s no elevator. Among other curiosities, the oldest house in Bautzen is the so-called “Witch’s House”. You can visit it on selected days, unfortunately, we didn’t manage to go inside.

This time our guide was Wolfgang, who was born back when Lower Silesia was German. His passion is guiding tourists, and it showed; he also has keys to various attractions in the city.

Accommodation: For three nights, we stayed in the center of the Old Town, in a charming hotel ApartOne. Very close to attractions, we had breakfast in a palace nearby + free parking was outside the Old Town. Leaving the link: ApartOne Altstadt-Hotel

Biosphere Reserve in the Land of a Thousand Ponds

The Biosphere Reserve of the Heath and Upper Lusatian Pond Landscape has belonged to UNESCO biosphere reserves since 1996. Its area covers 30,102 hectares, and over 5000 species of animals and plants have been identified within the reserve.

There’s plenty of walking opportunities; we took a five-kilometer walk around the Guttau pond. At this time of year (spring), you can listen to bird songs and frogs, and I dream of coming back in the autumn to observe more animals. Now they were hidden, busy with spring activities.

In the village of Wartha, a festival takes place twice a year, so if you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping by. There are regional products, you can buy plants, and many other things. I had the opportunity to participate in the spring festival, and it was really nice.

More on the website: https://www.biosphaerenreservat-oberlausitz.de/

House of a Thousand Ponds

Before you go hiking, it’s worth visiting the Tourist Information Center “Haus der Tausend Teiche” in Wartha, which has a great exhibition about heaths and the landscape of Upper Lusatia. At this exhibition, you’ll learn about the biosphere reserve, what it deals with, and how humans influence nature. They also show how people have been managing ponds for centuries. Before entering the permanent exhibition, you can watch a short film about the biosphere reserve (also in Polish). Besides a large aquarium with local fish, there’s also a laboratory where you can see plants and animals under a microscope, and a kitchen where they show how to prepare traditional blue carp.

More on the website https://haus-der-tausend-teiche.de/

Hiking in Upper Lusatia

There are many more hiking spots in this area. The ponds are beautiful, but after one hike, we chose to hike around Gröditzer Rock. The trail takes about 2 hours – you’ll walk 5 kilometers in a picturesque atmosphere.

Tip: We parked next to Gröditz Palace. You can visit it with a guide, prior registration is required on the website www.pro-groeditz.de

Upper Lusatian Attractions This is, of course, a selected part of the attractions; there are many more in the area. However, what’s important, you can do my travel plan in a week. That means a lot depends on the pace and interests, but in my opinion, a week will be optimal not to rush, but to have time to sit for a coffee or admire the views. I recommend it.

If you’re interested in traveling in Germany, check out my other posts:

This action is co-financed with tax funds based on the budget approved by the members of the Saxon State Parliament.

More information about the Upper Lusatia region on the website www.oberlausitz.com and www.tourismus-bautzen.de

The post Upper Lusatia – a plan for a trip around Saxony appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

Castles and Palaces in Poland Where You Can Stay

Evelyn Gac — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 13:14:00 +0000

Lower Silesia is a region distinguished by a significant number of castles and palaces. There are over twenty of them, and each is definitely worth a visit! Today I will present to you those among them where hotels operate. Staying in such a place will provide everyone with unforgettable experiences! They are particularly suitable for a romantic getaway combined with sightseeing, but they will also be great for a family trip.

Kliczków Castle

Kliczków Castle draws its style from French castles. Once there was a fortress here, which was meant to defend the Duchy of Świdnica-Jawor. Over the centuries, the building changed owners frequently. The modernization that gave it its current shape took place in the 19th century. At that time, the castle was also surrounded by an English-style garden.

Kliczków Castle is one of the largest structures of its kind in Lower Silesia. It looks truly impressive! It consists of residential wings in the neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance styles.

Kliczków Castle houses a hotel, a spa center, and an elegant restaurant. Accommodations are available in double rooms (starting from 399 PLN) and apartments. The most luxurious Imperial Suite has an area of over 50m² and consists of a bedroom (with a canopy bed) and a spacious living room. It is distinguished by original 19th-century furnishings and room layout. You can feel like royalty here!

This is a good option for a trip with children, as besides the pool, you will also find a playroom and a ping-pong table, as well as a horse stable in the nearby manor.