Best attractions and places to see around Plauen include a diverse range of notable landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features within the Vogtland region of Saxony, Germany. Known as the "lace city" for its rich lacemaking history, Plauen is situated amidst valleys and rivers like the Elster. The area offers a mix of impressive architectural structures and expansive natural landscapes, providing varied points of interest for exploration.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The dam was built from 1958 to 1964.
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Beautiful viewpoint over the Pöhl dam.
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The bridge is currently being renovated (July 2022) and the following paths are closed: - Way over the bridge - Path under the bridge on the eastern bank; the path on the western bank, however, is open. Detours are signposted on site, but they are quite long. For example To get from the Triebtal to the other bank, the diversion leads up to Jocketa, down to Barthmühle and from there south along the western bank of the Elster. A detour of almost an hour and several meters in altitude.
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A little further towards Plauen there is a free bathing beach
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It's about 20 km around the reservoir
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The tower is open and there is no entry fee
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Construction work, the crossing is currently not possible
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The region around Plauen offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit the Triebtal Valley, a nature reserve with a three-kilometer path along babbling shoots and mossy rocks, extending from the Pöhl Dam to the Elster River. The Pöhl Dam itself is a large reservoir popular for outdoor activities. Additionally, the City Park provides a historic green space with various tree species and a large pond.
Yes, there are many hiking opportunities. The Triebtal Valley offers a scenic path, and the Syratal Landscape Conservation Area is great for leisurely walks, leading to the Bärensteinturm Tower. For more structured routes, you can explore various easy hikes around Plauen, such as the White Elster Valley loop or trails around Großer Weidenteich.
For panoramic views, climb the Julius Mosen Tower on the Eisenberg, which offers vistas from the Pöhl Dam to the Elstertal Bridge. The New Town Hall tower also provides great city views. Additionally, the areas around the historic Göltzschtal Bridge and Elster Valley Bridge offer impressive perspectives of these architectural marvels and their surrounding landscapes.
Plauen is rich in historical architecture. Don't miss the Göltzschtal Bridge, the largest brick bridge in the world, and the Elster Valley Bridge, the second largest. In the city center, you can admire the Renaissance gable of the Old Town Hall with its art clock, and the distinctive tower of the New Town Hall. The St. Johannis Church, consecrated in 1122, is another impressive Gothic structure, and the Weaver Houses offer a glimpse into medieval life.
Plauen is known as the 'lace city.' You can delve into its rich lacemaking tradition at the Plauen Lace Museum, located within the Old Town Hall, which displays vintage machines and artifacts. Another excellent option is the Fabrik der Fäden (The Thread Factory), which provides insights into the Vogtland textile industry and the delicate craft of lacemaking.
Beyond the lace museums, Plauen offers several cultural attractions. The Vogtland Museum showcases local history and culture, including textiles and regional heritage. The E.O. Plauen Erich Ohser Galerie is dedicated to the famous cartoonist Erich Ohser, known for his 'Father and Son' comic strips. The Malzhaus e.V. is a cultural center hosting diverse events, and the Vogtlandtheater is a historical venue for performances.
Yes, Plauen has several family-friendly options. The Pöhl Dam offers a swimming lake and camping areas, perfect for a day out. The Freizeitanlage Syratal is an amusement park with rides set amidst natural surroundings. The City Park also provides open spaces and an aviary for children to enjoy. Many of the bridges, like the Göltzschtal Bridge, are also considered family-friendly attractions by visitors.
Absolutely. The Elster Cycle Path is a long-distance route that passes through Plauen, largely following the riverbanks, offering scenic rides. For more specific routes, you can find various road cycling routes around Plauen, including tours around the Pöhl Dam or routes incorporating the Göltzschtal Bridge.
Visitors frequently praise the impressive scale and unique architecture of the historic bridges, particularly the Göltzschtal Bridge and Elster Valley Bridge. The natural beauty of areas like the Triebtal Valley is also highly appreciated, especially for its tranquil atmosphere and cooling effect on hot days. The panoramic views from spots like the Julius Mosen Tower are also a highlight for many.
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Weaver Houses (Weberhäuser) in the idyllic Elsteraue, which offer a glimpse into traditional crafts with show workshops and enchanted gardens. The Alaunbergwerk 'Ewiges Leben' is an alum mine offering unique underground experiences as a visitor mine, providing a different kind of historical exploration.
Plauen's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the natural features like the Triebtal Valley and the City Park, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for activities around the Pöhl Dam. Indoor attractions like the Plauen Lace Museum and Vogtland Museum are great options regardless of the weather.


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