Zittau Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Zittau
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Nestled in the tri-border region of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic, Zittau offers families a blend of history, nature, and unique experiences. Begin your visit at the Zittau Lenten Veil Exhibition in the Church of St. John, where you can marvel at the famous medieval veils. Stroll through the historic Altmarkt, the city’s vibrant old town square, and discover the impressive Town Hall and the Flower Clock. Families with children will enjoy the Zittau Zoo, which features interactive animal encounters and spacious playgrounds.
Hop aboard the Zittau Narrow Gauge Railway for a scenic ride through the picturesque Zittauer Gebirge mountains, making stops at charming villages such as Oybin and Jonsdorf. Both destinations offer opportunities for hiking, castle tours, and the Oybin Monastery ruins. Don’t miss the Butterfly House in Jonsdorf, where kids can walk among hundreds of exotic butterflies and learn about their habitats.
For a local secret, visit the Mandau River’s hidden pebble beaches near Hirschfelde. Here, families can picnic and swim away from the crowds. End your day at Café Central, a beloved spot for homemade cakes and Saxon specialties. Zittau’s blend of cultural treasures, outdoor adventures, and lesser-known gems ensures a memorable visit for all ages.
Nearby cities
Bertsdorf-Hörnitz
Discover Bertsdorf-Hörnitz in Saxony—where your family can picnic by sparkling lakes, bike green hills, and explore kid-friendly trails in fresh mountain air.
Grossschönau
Discover Grossschönau in Saxony—where your family can splash in clear lakes, hike sunlit trails, and picnic under tall pines for a perfect outdoor getaway.
Oybin
Discover Oybin in Saxony—where your family can hike forest trails, explore castle ruins, and picnic by sparkling lakes under the gentle sun. Adventure awaits!
Bad Muskau
Discover Bad Muskau in Saxony—wander lush park trails, picnic by shimmering lakes, and enjoy outdoor fun for all ages in this welcoming family getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Zittau has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Zittau, Germany offers the rare delight of exploring the historic Zittau Lenten Veil, a centuries-old textile masterpiece displayed in the Church of the Holy Cross. Stroll through the enchanting Old Town, where ornate facades and the medieval Town Hall evoke the city’s prosperous past. Ride the narrow-gauge Zittau-Oybin-Jonsdorf railway, winding through the scenic Zittau Mountains, and savor the tranquil beauty of the border triangle where Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic meet.
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In Zittau, you can connect with reputable local guides and family adventure tours through the Zittau Tourist Information Center located at the historic Market Square. Here, knowledgeable staff can arrange guided walks through the charming Old Town, excursions to the Zittau Mountains Nature Park, and family-friendly outings on the iconic Zittau Narrow Gauge Railway. Many guides are certified and passionate about sharing the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes with visitors.
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Families visiting Zittau can enjoy a range of welcoming accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to spacious holiday apartments, many situated near the historic Old Town and the iconic Zittau Mountains. Several properties offer family rooms, playgrounds, and easy access to attractions like the Zittau Narrow Gauge Railway and the beautiful Olbersdorf Lake. Staying in a local pension or a modern hotel close to the market square provides both comfort and convenience for exploring the region’s rich cultural and natural highlights.
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To truly experience the best of Zittau, plan to spend two to three days exploring this charming Saxon town. Wander the historic Market Square with its impressive Town Hall, admire the intricate details of the Zittau Lenten Veil at the museum, and take a scenic ride on the narrow-gauge railway to the picturesque Zittau Mountains. This timeframe allows you to enjoy the local cafes, visit the Flower Clock, and soak in the unique blend of German, Polish, and Czech influences.
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Around Zittau, Olbersdorfer See stands out as a favorite swimming destination, offering a sandy beach, clear water, and picturesque views of the Zittauer Gebirge mountains. The lake’s well-maintained facilities include sunbathing lawns and a lakeside promenade, making it ideal for families and nature lovers alike. Visitors can also enjoy water sports, beach volleyball, and nearby hiking trails, ensuring a vibrant and relaxing day by the water in this scenic corner of Saxony.
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Absolutely, around Zittau in Saxony, you’ll find charming winter lodges and cabins particularly in the Zittauer Gebirge, Germany’s smallest mountain range. Many accommodations, such as those in Oybin or Jonsdorf, offer direct access to scenic cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing routes, and even the nostalgic Zittau Narrow Gauge Railway, which takes you through snowy forests to mountain villages. After a day outdoors, you can warm up by a crackling fire and enjoy hearty Saxon cuisine.
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When staying in Zittau, you should budget around 20 to 30 euros per person each day for meals, depending on your dining preferences. Enjoy hearty Saxon cuisine at local favorites like Gasthaus Zur Weinau, where a traditional dinner with drinks might cost 12 to 18 euros. For lunch, try a café in the historic Altmarkt for about 6 to 10 euros. Sampling local pastries or coffee in the old town adds just a few more euros to your daily food experience.
