Saxony-Anhalt's diversity unfolds particularly impressively in autumn: river meadows, forests, and gardens invite you to experience nature in depth. At the same time, the towns and villages boast a culinary culture deeply rooted in the region: restaurants and producers work with local ingredients, bringing the landscape directly to the plate. Those traveling through Saxony-Anhalt in autumn will encounter a region that combines nature and enjoyment in a unique way – and, moreover, offers a wealth of culture and history at every turn.
The South Harz region made headlines this year: With the state exhibition "Gerechtigkeyt1525," the state focused on the Peasants' War and its significance. Although the show is now coming to an end, the region remains an attractive insider tip. With impressive locations such as the Royal Palace of Tilleda and lively reenactments in which hundreds of actors bring historical scenes to life, the South Harz region demonstrates that it has much to offer beyond large-scale exhibitions.
In Dessau, a major anniversary will take center stage in 2025 and 2026: 100 years ago, the Bauhaus moved here from Weimar and experienced its most significant phase in the industrial city. This was made possible in part by the entrepreneur Hugo Junkers, who energetically advocated for the Bauhaus's establishment and provided the technical equipment for its building. The anniversary series "To the Substance. Bauhaus Dessau 100" highlights this historic moment – and demonstrates how closely cultural history and economic innovation are intertwined.
In addition to history and architecture, it is the cuisine that makes Saxony-Anhalt exciting for guests. Between the Altmark and Saale-Unstrut regions, between the Harz and Magdeburg, restaurateurs are increasingly focusing on regionality and close partnerships with farmers and producers. Those traveling will encounter restaurants and businesses that create contemporary cuisine with seasonal ingredients – authentic, down-to-earth, and innovative at the same time.
A look at the "Garden Dreams" network demonstrates that Saxony-Anhalt is a land of gardens. This includes not only historic monastery gardens like the one at Michaelstein near Blankenburg, which introduce visitors to centuries-old, cultivated plant traditions. The European Rosarium Sangerhausen is also part of this network: with around 80,000 shrubs, it is the largest rosarium in the world and also a center of international research.
Another focus is on nature experiences. The UNESCO Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve and the Harz National Park offer diverse opportunities to explore landscapes in depth. “Nature houses” such as the “House of Rivers,” the “Brocken House,” or the “House of the Forest” convey knowledge about ecological relationships and sustainable development in a practical way – attractive for families, school classes, and adults interested in nature.
Performing arts in Saxony-Anhalt also boast their own superlatives. Alongside the renowned venues in Halle, Dessau, and Magdeburg, it's primarily the smaller theaters that offer surprises: for example, the world's only stage in a Hundertwasser house, the smallest municipal theater in Germany, or a theater once directed by Goethe. Programs range from classical theater to productions by dedicated amateur groups and guest performances by renowned ensembles.
Saxony-Anhalt in autumn presents itself as a multifaceted travel destination: from Bauhaus architecture and vibrant Reformation history to culinary discoveries and impressive gardens, nature experiences and performing arts. Those who embark on a journey of discovery will encounter traces of a turbulent past everywhere – and a state that also has much to tell in the present.