Grimma between the Mulde, bridges and city history

Grimma combines architectural and museum history with the Mulde River and a designated themed trail. This offers several ways to plan your trip: you can explore historic buildings and collections, take in views of the city from its bridges, or plan a hike along the Way of Stones.

The Mulde and its Bridges

The Stone Mulde Bridge, also known as the Pöppelmann Bridge, is considered a landmark of Grimma. Crossing it on foot offers views of the old town skyline, the Gothic gable of the castle, the monastery church and St. Augustine Gymnasium.

The Grimma Suspension Bridge offers another way to cross the river: it spans 80 metres over the Mulde and connects the town with the town park on the opposite bank. Grimma lies on the Mulde and is surrounded by gentle hills. Together, the river, bridges and hilly landscape give your stay a clear connection to the surrounding scenery. The Pöppelmann Bridge is especially associated with views of the old town skyline, while the suspension bridge connects to the town park.

Architecture and City History

Part of Grimma’s town wall has been preserved. It dates from the first third of the 13th century, and small garden sheds stand on the remaining section of the wall. The Church of the Augustinian Hermits is part of Grimma’s city tour. Built around 1430, it retains its historic tracery windows. Martin Luther preached in the church several times.

The Pöppelmann Bridge is also one of Grimma’s notable structures. Its other name, the Stone Mulde Bridge, refers to the river, while crossing it on foot offers views of several buildings in the city. For a culture-focused trip, you can combine visits to these historic structures with a visit to the museums; for a hike, the bridge is the starting point of the Way of Stones.

Museums and Exhibitions

The collection at the Museum Grimma has its roots in the 1900 antiques exhibition and has continued to develop ever since. At Wilhelm Ostwald Park, Haus Energie houses a permanent exhibition on Wilhelm Ostwald’s life and work. It is located in the rooms where he worked. The two venues offer different perspectives: the Museum Grimma collection has a history dating back to its beginnings, while the exhibition at Haus Energie focuses on one person’s life and work.

The Schiffmühle Höfgen technical museum presents exhibitions on hydropower and the environment, the history and use of the mill, and the cultural history of Central European river ship mills. A guided tour lasts about 45 minutes and can be booked during opening hours or by arrangement. Seasonal opening and booking arrangements may change, so check them before planning your visit.

The Göschenhaus Museum is currently closed for renovation work, which is expected to continue until 2027. Check the status again before planning a visit. This will help you choose museums suited to your travel dates and plan visits to other cultural sites independently.

Plan Your Hike and Journey

The Way of Stones is an easy themed hiking trail measuring 8.29 kilometres. It starts at Grimma’s Pöppelmann Bridge, passes through Rabenstein and Höfgen, and continues along the Mulde to Förstgen. The trail includes 28 stone stations, including signposts, stone seats, information boards and sculptures. The route thus combines a set distance with a variety of stops along the way. Check the trail information and route conditions before setting out.

One possible route from Leipzig is by train or S-Bahn to Borsdorf, followed by regional train RB110 to Grimma station. Timetables and transport services may change, so it is a good idea to check current connections before travelling. You can then choose a hotel based on your planned focus: city history and museums, views from the bridges, or a hike along the Way of Stones.

Discover more travel destinations: Colditz, Rötha, Leipzig, Groitzsch, Lossatal, Pegau, Narsdorf, Wurzen.

Return to the main travel overview: Leipzig District.