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There are an array of things to do in Germany, with Plauen sharing quite a few of those!
Plauen, nestled in the heart of Vogtland, is a haven for those seeking an escape from the humdrum of urban life.
From admiring the stunning architecture of its historic monuments to strolling along the banks of the white Elster River, Plauen has so much to offer.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene or take a leisurely hike through the lush green forests, Plauen is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and serenity in equal measure.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Plauen:
1. St Johanniskirche
St. Johanniskirche is a beautiful Protestant church located in the city of Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive neo-Gothic architecture of the church, especially its magnificent spire which is one of the tallest in Saxony.
The interior of the church is also worth seeing, with stunning stained glass windows and intricate decorations.
Don’t miss: Make sure to climb up the 248 steps of the church tower to enjoy panoramic views of Plauen and its surroundings.
It’s definitely worth the effort!
Insider travel tips: Try to time your visit to coincide with the church’s regular organ concerts, which showcase the impressive acoustics of the building and provide a truly magical experience.
Also, don’t forget to check out the nearby Vogtland Museum, which has a great collection of local cultural and historical artefacts.
2. Rathausturm Plauen
Rathausturm Plauen is a clock tower located in the city center of Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the intricate clock mechanism, which is over 100 years old and still functional.
Insider travel tips: – The tower can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, so plan your visit accordingly.
3. Alte Elsterbrücke
The Alte Elsterbrücke, also known as the Old Elster Bridge, is a historic bridge located in the city of Plauen in Germany.
It spans over the Elster River and connects the districts of Chrieschwitz and Jößnitz.
What to see or do: The Alte Elsterbrücke offers a picturesque view of the Elster River and the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing.
Visitors can also take a walk along the bridge and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a closer look at the historic architecture of the bridge.
Built in the early 20th century, the bridge is an engineering marvel of its time and a true testament to German craftsmanship.
Insider travel tips: To fully experience the charm of the Alte Elsterbrücke, plan your visit during sunset or sunrise. The view of the sun rising or setting behind the bridge is simply breathtaking.
Additionally, if you are interested in German history, take a guided tour of the bridge to learn more about its fascinating past.
4. Vogtlandmuseum Plauen
Vogtlandmuseum Plauen is a museum located in Plauen, Germany that showcases the history, art, and culture of the Vogtland region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits which range from medieval artifacts to contemporary art.
The museum also has an extensive collection of textiles, costumes, and musical instruments that highlight the region’s unique traditions and crafts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s standout exhibitions on the history of lace-making in Vogtland and the life and work of the German artist Ernest Oppler.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to check the museum’s website for current exhibits and hours of operation before you go.
5. Festhalle Plauen
Festhalle Plauen is an event venue located in Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: Festhalle Plauen hosts a variety of events throughout the year including concerts, theater performances, and conferences. The venue has a seating capacity of 3,000 and is known for its exceptional acoustics.
Don’t miss: If you have the opportunity to attend a concert or performance at Festhalle Plauen, don’t miss the chance to experience the venue’s impressive sound quality.
Insider travel tips: – Check the venue’s schedule in advance to see what events are happening during your visit to Plauen.
6. Spitzenmuseum Plauen
The Spitzenmuseum Plauen is a museum dedicated to showcasing the art of lace-making in Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a vast collection of historic and contemporary lace pieces, including clothing, household items, and art. The museum also has interactive displays where you can try your hand at lace-making.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the stunning collection of handmade lace wedding gowns, some of which date back to the 1800s.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers guided tours in English and German.
7. Elstertalbrücke
Elstertalbrücke is a railway bridge located in Plauen, Germany, known for its impressive engineering design and scenic views of the valley.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a picturesque stroll or bike ride across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the Elster Valley below.
The bridge is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture its distinctive architecture.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the bridge lit up at night – the LED lighting system enhances its beauty and creates a captivating spectacle.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking to experience the Elstertalbrücke without crowds, visit early in the morning or during the week. The bridge is easily accessible by car, bike, or foot.
There are also several lookout points in the surrounding area that offer great viewpoints of the bridge.
8. Friedensbrücke Plauen
Friedensbrücke (Peace Bridge) is a historic suspension bridge in Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: The bridge offers a scenic view of the Plauen cityscape and the valley of river Weiße Elster. Walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy the view of the river below.
Don’t miss: The impressive architecture of the bridge with its steel cables and towers.
Insider travel tips: The bridge is particularly beautiful at sunset when the colors of the sky reflect on the river. Visit the nearby Old Town of Plauen for a glimpse of the city’s medieval architecture.
9. Malzhaus Plauen
Malzhaus Plauen is a cultural center and event venue located in Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: The center hosts a variety of events including concerts, theater performances, cinema nights, and art exhibitions.
Visitors can also enjoy the cozy cafe and bar area, as well as the outdoor beer garden during the summer months.
Don’t miss: The building itself is worth a visit, as it is a beautifully renovated malt house that dates back to the late 19th century.
Insider travel tips: Check the calendar of events ahead of time to plan your visit and purchase tickets in advance. The venue can get quite crowded during popular performances, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
Additionally, the cafe and beer garden are great places to hang out and enjoy some local brews.
10. Syratal
Syratal is a scenic valley located near the town of Plauen in Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can go for hikes and enjoy the beautiful landscape of cliffs, waterfalls, and forests. There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that provide stunning views of the valley.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Syratal is the Poehl Dam, which offers boat tours and fishing opportunities. The rock formations of the Elstertal Sandstone Mountains also provide a unique spectacle.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Syratal is during the summer months when the weather is warmer and the vegetation is in full bloom.
Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water and snacks for their hikes. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes located in the surrounding towns that offer delicious local cuisine.
11. Parktheater Plauen
Parktheater Plauen is a theatre located in the city of Plauen, Germany, that stages a variety of performances throughout the year.
What to see or do: Visitors can catch a diverse selection of shows at Parktheater Plauen, including drama, musicals, ballet, concerts and children’s theatre.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Parktheater Plauen is its impressive architecture, which features a stunning Art Nouveau façade and a beautifully restored interior.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak season.
12. Pauluskirche Plauen
Pauluskirche Plauen is a historic church located in the city of Plauen, Germany.
What to see or do: The church features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and a magnificent pipe organ. Visitors can also admire the stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture of the building.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the frescoes on the vaulted ceiling, depicting scenes from the Bible.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can attend a church service to experience the acoustics of the pipe organ. The church also hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year.
13. Alter Friedhof
The Alter Friedhof is a historic cemetery located in the Plauen district of Munich, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the cemetery and admire the impressive funerary architecture and beautiful gardens. Many notable figures are buried here, including Nobel Prize-winning chemist Adolf von Baeyer and German composer Joseph Rheinberger.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the mausoleum of the Tetzner family, which features breathtaking stained glass windows and a striking pyramid-shaped roof.
Insider travel tips: – The cemetery is open to visitors daily from 7 am to 8 pm.
14. Kloster Mildenfurth
Kloster Mildenfurth is a former Benedictine monastery located in Plauen, Germany, that dates back to the 13th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the monastery church with its impressive Gothic architecture, as well as the cloisters and the former monks’ cells.
The monastery also houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the site and the art and culture of the surrounding Vogtland region.
Don’t miss: The monastery’s unique octagonal chapel, which is a rare example of Carolingian-style architecture in Germany.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the monastery’s website for information on their special events and concerts, which often take place throughout the year.
Also, take some time to explore the surrounding Vogtland countryside, which is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
15. Plauener Parkteich
Plauener Parkteich is a beautiful park located in the Plauen district of Dresden, Germany, that features a serene lake and lush greenery.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding nature. The park is also great for picnicking, cycling, jogging, and fishing.
Boat rentals are available for those who want to enjoy a relaxing ride on the lake.
Don’t miss: Make sure to walk across the historic Plauener Parkteich bridge, which offers stunning views of the lake and park. Visitors should also check out the impressive water fountain in the center of the lake, which is illuminated at night.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the park. Don’t forget to bring some bread to feed the ducks and swans that swim in the lake.
For a unique experience, visit the park during the annual “Fête de la Musique” festival, where musicians and artists perform throughout the park.
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