Overview
Bautzen is one of eastern Germany's best-preserved medieval cities, offering a compact old town defended by city walls dropping to the Spree River. The city serves as the cultural center of the Sorbian community, with 10% of the population being Sorbs, resulting in bilingual German-Sorbian street signs and unique cultural sites.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Culture
Bautzen is the cultural centre of Germany's Sorbian minority. The city has bilingual signage, Sorbian museums, and traditional cultural sites.
History
Bautzen has a rich history as part of Upper Lusatia, under various rulers including Poland, Bohemia, Hungary, and East Germany. The notorious Stasi prison (Bautzen II) is now a memorial.
Language
German is the official language. Sorbian (a Slavic language) is also spoken by about 10% of the population. Street signs are bilingual German-Sorbian.
Money
Germany uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Cash is preferred at smaller establishments and markets.
Transport
The compact city centre is best explored on foot. Regular train service connects Bautzen to Dresden and Görlitz. Local buses are available.