Chemnitz European Capital of Culture Tour

Itinerary: European Capital of Culture Tour

Discover selected highlights in a 4 day tour starting in Chemnitz

European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025 celebrates creativity, diversity, and innovation with inspiring events across the city itself, Chemnitz.Zwickauer.Region and the UNESCO-listed Ore Mountains. For a best-of, we have curated a 4-day itinerary starting in Chemnitz and featuring a range of highlights.

On your trip, you will also be able to explore the "Purple Path", one of the European Capital of Culture flagship projects featuring international artists. This public art trail invites visitors on a journey through the region, with works united by the theme "Everything comes from the mountain." Alongside the trail, you can even participate in creative workshops and art projects in special “maker hubs”, fostering discovery, collaboration, and cultural exchange!

1

Spend a day exploring Chemnitz, a city rich in history and culture. Stroll through its award-winning city centre, home to iconic sites like the “Nischel” (a massive Karl Marx bust) and remarkable museums. Explore the Saxon Museum of Industry to delve into the city’s industrial heritage or visit the Chemnitz Art Collections for an impressive selection of modern art, including works by Baselitz, Otto Dix, and Karl Schmidt-Rottluff. Don't miss the Edvard Munch exhibition from August 10 to November 2, 2025.

2

On your second day, dive into the excitement of the “Capital of Culture” celebrations. With festivals, concerts, performances, and more, the city will be brimming with unique experiences. Explore and engage in the vibrant atmosphere.

3

Take a 45-minute drive to Zwickau where you can enjoy a unique blend of automotive heritage and classical music. Start with the August Horch Museum, which showcases 115 years of car manufacturing at the birthplace of Audi. Explore an impressive collection of vintage cars and learn about the pioneering work of August Horch.

3

Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Zwickau's charming city center. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in classical music at the Schumann House, a museum dedicated to composer Robert Schumann, one of Germany’s greatest musical figures. Alternatively, visit Sunseekers! (April 10–August 10, 2025), a captivating exhibition showcasing over 4,000 works by 450 artists from the SDAG Wismut collection. It explores East Germany’s art scene during the Cold War and the transformations following reunification.

4

Purple Path 42 Tage Bettina Pousttchi in Schwarzenberg

Embark on a scenic journey to Schwarzenberg and explore the purple path sculptures along the way in Schneeberg, Aue-Bad Schlema, and Lößnitz. Make sure to check out “Maker Hub” events taking place in the area!

4

In Schwarzenberg, visit the UNESCO-listed Erlahammer manor to learn about the region's mining history, or explore Europe’s largest tin chambers at the Pöhla show mine. Wander through the charming, listed old town with its picturesque alleys and unique shops. For a true local experience, stop by the “Freie Republik Schwarzenberg” pub, which celebrates the region’s brief self-governance after WWII due to an allied misunderstanding.

DAY 1: CHEMNITZ

DAY 2: CHEMNITZ

DAY 3: ZWICKAU (approx. 45 KM)

DAY 3: ZWICKAU

DAY 4: PURPLE PATH and SCHWARZENBERG (approx. 40 KM)

DAY 4: SCHWARZENBERG

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Saxony is looking forward to welcoming you!