Where to Stay in Görlitz

I had the pleasure of staying at Altstadtdomizil Morgenröte in Görlitz, and I wholeheartedly recommend this cozy guesthouse, conveniently located within walking distance of the city’s attractions. Even two months after my stay, I still reminisce about the remarkably soft and fluffy bedding—truly better than what you’d find in many luxury hotels!

Upon my arrival, the owner provided an insightful introduction to the city, sharing its history, its cinematic ties, and invaluable tips on what not to miss during my visit. They also gave me a tour of the historic building’s ancient cellar and beautiful garden terrace before showing me to my room, adorned with antique frescoes on the ceiling. It was by far the most comfortable and inviting accommodation I experienced during my travels in Saxony, and I’m eager to return to Görlitz one day!

Note: I paid for my stay at Altstadtdomizil Morgenröte and did not declare myself as a blogger.

If Altstadtdomizil Morgenröte is fully booked, consider these other lovely options:

• Görlitz Apartment In Der Butt—Yes, that’s the actual name! While I haven’t seen the inside, I can vouch for its excellent location next door to my guesthouse.
• Emmerich Hotel—This boutique hotel, which recently opened, made quite an impressive transformation from an abandoned medieval mansion and has even been featured in Architectural Digest.
• Pension Wielsch—Ideal for families, this pension offers rooms with kitchenettes that can accommodate groups of four.
• Akzent Hotel Am Goldenen Strauss—If you’re in Görlitz to visit the department store (more on that shortly), this hotel is conveniently located on the same square.

All these accommodations are excellently situated either in the historic center or just a short stroll away.

The Best Things to Do in Görlitz

There’s so much to see and do in Görlitz that you’ll want to spend at least one night—if not two or three! With so many attractions on the German side of the town, you won’t run out of places to explore.

#1 – The Upper Lusatian Library of Sciences in the Baroque House

For anyone who loves libraries, the Upper Lusatian Library of Sciences will surely delight you! Located within the Baroque House, this library boasts a collection of around 150,000 books, nearly half of which date back to the 1800s or earlier. As the collection expanded, stunning arched shelves reminiscent of Baroque theaters were added.

#2 – Walk to Zgorzelec, Poland

If you’re like me and living halfway across the world from any international borders, the chance to walk into another country is exhilarating! Görlitz, situated along the Lusatian Neisse River, offers a wonderful opportunity to stroll across the Altstadtbrucke to Zgorzelec in Poland. Without any border controls, you can seamlessly transition between the two towns.

#3 – The Holy Sepulchre Replica

Believe it or not, Görlitz holds a small-scale replica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem! Commissioned by a local man after his pilgrimage to Jerusalem in the 1400s, this site features not just the Holy Sepulchre but also a two-story Chapel of the Cross.

#4 – The Görlitz Department Store (From the Grand Budapest Hotel)

Known as “Görliwood” for its various film productions, Görlitz features the Görlitz Department Store, which served as a remarkable film set for the Grand Budapest Hotel. Although the store closed in 2009, ongoing restoration efforts aim to bring it back to life, and there are guided tours available monthly.

#5 – Görlitz City History Museum (Inside the Kaisertrutz)

Don’t miss the City History Museum housed inside the Kaisertrutz! This defensive bastion features multiple levels that chronologically showcase Görlitz’s history from the Ice Age all the way to modern times.

#6 – The Church of Saint Peter and Paul

Dominating the skyline is the Church of Saint Peter and Paul, a stunning Gothic building renowned for its vibrant Sun Organ. Make sure to check for free organ concerts that happen regularly!

#7 – Ochsenbastei (The Oxen Fortress)

The Ochsenbastei gives you a great sense of history as you wander through public gardens that trace the path where oxen once grazed. Enjoy a leisurely stroll down towards the riverfront.

#8 – Nikolaikirche (Church of Saint Nicholas)

Another impressive Gothic church, Nikolaikirche dates back to the early 1500s and serves as a memorial to those who perished in World War I. The beauty of its surrounding cemetery is also worth a visit.

#9 – The Nikolaizwinger

Take a leisurely stroll through Nikolaizwinger Park, where the historical walls meet pretty gardens. Here you can find a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle.

#10 – Take a Guided Walking Tour

To delve into the city’s rich history, why not take a guided walking tour? The local tourist office conducts inexpensive tours, typically in German, but private tours can be arranged in English for visitors.