This western Polish city, known for its wine-making since the 14th century, has 50 bronze Bacchus statues scattered across its streets and hosts Poland's largest wine festival each September.
Zielona Góra sits in western Poland, where grape vines have grown since the 14th century. Walk through the medieval Market Square to see the red-brick Cathedral of St. Hedwig, or climb the 15th-century town hall tower for city views. Visit the Palm House, rising 20 meters above Wine Hill, or hunt for the 50 bronze Bacchus statues hidden in street corners. In September, wine flows freely during the annual Wine Fest, when local vintners open their cellars for tastings.
Visiting the Wine Museum
Inside the Wine Museum, examine 1,540 wine-making artifacts, from medieval grape presses to modern fermentation tanks. Take a guided tour in Polish, German, or English between 10 AM and 4 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. The Palm House restaurant occupies the restored 1818 Grempler building, where Germany's first sparkling wine production began. Look down at the city while dining, or watch tropical fish, including piranhas, swim in the aquarium below.
Walking Through the Old Town
The Market Square centers on a Gothic town hall, home to both a city museum and the Winiarnia Bachus wine bar. Look up at the red brick facade of the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Hedwig of Silesia, then walk to the Łaziebna tower, the last remaining section of the medieval city walls. Climb the town hall tower's steps for views across the square's colorful buildings.
Following the Bacchus Trail
Walk through Zielona Góra's streets to spot 50 bronze Bachusiki statues. Each mini-Bacchus has its own name and design, telling stories about wine culture and city life. Pick up a trail map at the tourist information center in the town hall to find all the figures, which lead you past the city's main streets and landmarks.
Getting Around
Catch direct trains to Warsaw (5 hours), Kraków (7 hours), Berlin (3 hours), and Vienna (8 hours) from the main railway station. Rent one of 400 city bikes from automated stations to explore the city. Cycle paths connect to the Ethnographic Museum in Ochla (5 km away) and the Botanical Garden in Odrzański Forest (3 km away).
Annual Events and Festivals
During September's Wine Fest, local vintners set up wine-tasting stalls throughout the streets, while musicians perform on outdoor stages. Watch street performers during the Busker Bus Festival in June/July as they fill the Old Town with music and acts. In August, Polish folk dancers and musicians take over the city during the Folk Song and Dance Festival. Stop by the Harlem pub during these festivals to catch evening jazz performances.
