Best attractions and places to see around Zgorzelec include a rich blend of historical, cultural, and natural sites. Situated on the Lusatian Neisse River, Zgorzelec offers a unique cross-border experience with Görlitz, Germany. This location allows for exploration of both Polish and German heritage and landscapes. The area features historic buildings, significant memorials, and scenic natural parks along the river.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Beach
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Zgorzelec.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A beautiful view from the local mountain of Görlitz
2
0
Since February 28, 2009, three pairs of passenger trains have once again run between Dresden and Wrocław over the viaduct. However, electric train service has not resumed since the viaduct's reconstruction, as the Soviet Union dismantled the overhead wire west and east of the Neisse after the war in the autumn of 1945. In 2011, it was announced in the local press that the Polish Railway, which owns the viaduct, planned to renovate the railway bridge by 2013 and simultaneously prepare for electrification. Construction work was completed at the end of 2013. Renovation and maintenance work was carried out on the tracks and substructure. The permitted speed was increased from 30 to 80 kilometers per hour. Heavy freight trains can now also cross the viaduct. The PKP had the parapet removed and replaced with a new one. Furthermore, new sand traps for drainage were installed, lights were installed, and new control systems for rail traffic were installed. Check Wikipedia
5
0
The Whispering Arch at Untermarkt 22 in Görlitz is a magnificent late Gothic portal decorated with elaborate details. Construction of the portal began in 1500, followed by extensions in 1525 and 1726. The Whispering Arch's keel-arch archivolt transmits sound waves so that even quiet words can be heard from one end to the other. Today, the Whispering Arch is one of the city's most visited sights.
7
0
The historic medieval Untermarkt in Görlitz is the centre of Görlitz's old town and is one of the most beautiful squares in the city. Here, in the middle of a unique ensemble of historic buildings, you will find the Görlitz town hall, the historic arches of the hall houses and the famous whispering arch.
6
0
The original name of this square, first mentioned in 1305, is simply Market. In 1403 the name Niedermarkt appears in the archives. The name Ring, which existed between 1340 and around 1600, probably comes from Silesian. The part north of the Zeile separating the square was also temporarily called the Alter Markt, Fischmarkt or Herringsmarkt. The country people selling goods mainly stood in the northern part of the square, while the artisans in the southern part. It was not until 1864 that the weekly market moved to Elisabethstrasse. The block of houses in the middle of the square is called Zeile or Mittelzeil. A passageway from east to west led through this block of houses; this no longer exists today. This passageway provided access to the southern grocers. Later, the houses were opened to the south side of the square, because the rich merchants (also spice and silk merchants) had their stalls on the south side.
9
0
History Planning The construction of the railway line through the pine forests of the Görlitz Heath was based on a compromise that envisaged connecting Görlitz to the main line of the Lower Silesian-Marxian Railway Company (NME). The main route of the NME ran from Berlin via Frankfurt (Oder) and Liegnitz to Breslau, thus bypassing Upper Lusatia, which had been Prussian since 1815. The plans envisaged the branch line to Görlitz starting from a branch line of the NME in Kohlfurt. A connection to the Saxon-Silesian Railway was to be created in Görlitz. However, this would require crossing the Neisse. The options for the crossing were either an elongated flood bridge on the flatter plains north of the city or a bridge over the narrower but deeper Neisse valley. It was decided to cross the deep Neisse valley, as it was essential to reach the city, a level crossing to the Saxon-Silesian railways.
7
0
The Neisse Viaduct in Görlitz is a railway bridge over the Lusatian Neisse between Germany and Poland. The 475-metre-long viaduct is one of the largest and oldest railway bridges in Germany. It was opened in 1847 with the railway line between Görlitz and Kohlfurt as part of the then rail connection between the Saxon capital Dresden and the Silesian provincial capital Breslau.
7
0
Zgorzelec boasts a rich history with several notable landmarks. You can visit the Untermarkt (Lower Market) in Görlitz, which served as a historical trading center and features the unique Whispering Arch. Other significant sites include the Nyskie Suburbs, the oldest part of Zgorzelec with historic houses, the House of Jakub Böhme, and the Baroque Palace in Francuska Street. The Old Town Bridge, connecting Zgorzelec with Görlitz, is also a symbolic historical structure.
Yes, Zgorzelec offers several cultural sites. The Dom Kultury (Upper Lusatian Commemoration Hall) is a monumental building hosting various cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. You can also explore the Lusatian Museum, dedicated to the history of Eastern Upper Lusatia, showcasing traditional costumes, tools, and artworks. The European Memory, Education, Culture Center is another important institution, particularly associated with the STALAG VIII A Memorial.
Zgorzelec is situated along the picturesque Lusatian Neisse River, offering beautiful banks for walks and relaxation. You can visit Nadnyski Park, located along the river, which provides scenic views of Görlitz and is ideal for walking, running, and cycling. The area also features a historical Park Complex (1870-1930) and Park im. Andrew Błachanca, providing green spaces for leisure. For a larger natural escape, Berzdorfer Lake is a beautiful, clear lake with bathing spots.
Families will find several engaging options. The Blaue Lagune Beach at Berzdorfer See offers a relaxing spot with white sand, perfect for a day out. The Neisse Viaduct (Görlitz) is an impressive structure that can be enjoyed during a walk or cycle along the Neisse River. The Sport & Recreation Centre provides opportunities for football, tennis, and swimming in indoor or outdoor pools. Exploring the historical Untermarkt (Lower Market) in Görlitz is also a pleasant family activity.
Yes, the Zgorzelec area offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find various routes, including those around Zgorzelec for road cycling, with options like the 'Olbersdorfer See Beach Bar – Obermühle Brewery, Görlitz loop'. For gravel biking, explore routes such as 'Berzdorfer See – Lake Berzdorf loop' or 'Quitzdorf Reservoir – Görlitz Old Town Bridge loop' available in the gravel biking guide. The Polish side of the Neisse is particularly great for cycling.
For scenic walks and runs, the banks of the Lusatian Neisse River and Nadnyski Park are ideal, offering beautiful views towards Görlitz. You can also find dedicated running trails around Zgorzelec, such as the 'Playground in Upper Lusatia – Kulturhaus Görlitz loop' or routes connecting to Görlitz Old Town. The area around Berzdorfer Lake also provides picturesque paths for walking and running.
The best time to visit Zgorzelec for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is pleasant for exploring parks, cycling along the Neisse, enjoying Blaue Lagune Beach, and hiking. The region's natural beauty is at its peak, and most attractions and outdoor facilities are fully operational.
Absolutely! Zgorzelec's unique location directly across the Lusatian Neisse River from Görlitz, Germany, makes it incredibly easy to explore both cities. The Old Town Bridge serves as a symbolic connection, allowing visitors to walk or cycle between the two. Görlitz is renowned for its well-preserved architecture and historic squares like Untermarkt, offering a seamless cross-border experience.
Beyond the main sights, Zgorzelec holds a few unique spots. The Salt Cave, located in the Nyskie Apartments building, offers a relaxing microclimate beneficial for health and well-being. Additionally, within the Untermarkt in Görlitz, the Whispering Arch at house number 22 is a fascinating architectural detail where quiet words can be heard from one end to the other due to its unique acoustics.
Visitors frequently praise the impressive structures like the Neisse Viaduct (Görlitz) and the scenic routes along the Neisse River. The beautiful bathing spots and gastronomy around Berzdorfer Lake, especially the 'Caribbean-like' Blaue Lagune Beach, are highly appreciated. The historical charm of Untermarkt in Görlitz, particularly its traffic-calmed environment and the Whispering Arch, also receives many positive comments.
Yes, for panoramic views of the region, you should visit the Landeskrone Observation Tower. Located on a 420-meter mountain, it offers a 360-degree view of the landscape. The tower ascent is free when the weather is good and the restaurant on top is open, providing a great spot to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, Zgorzelec is part of a significant pilgrimage route. The Lower Silesian Route of St. Jacob, which is a segment of the larger path leading to Santiago de Compostela, runs directly through the town. This offers a unique opportunity for those interested in historical and spiritual journeys.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: