Some people seek their fortune the world over
Life in Wetzlar
The “City of Optics” and birthplace of 35mm photography – Wetzlar can look back on a successful history. The charming town still plays an important role in the international optics industry. In the picturesque old town with its unfinished cathedral and medieval market, you can find owner-run boutiques next to international flagship stores, snug taverns, and inviting cafés.
You will find historical traces everywhere that bear witness to a storied past. For example Oskar Barnack, the ingenious inventor of the Ur-Leica. Or Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who told the story of his tragic affair with Charlotte Buff in The Sorrows of Young Werther. But the possibilities for discovery tours and leisure activities do not end at the town gates. Wetzlar’s surroundings invite exploration along hiking paths through woods and valleys as well as in the nature parks.
Leitz Park
The Leica brand exerts a fascination that unites photography aficionados the world over. In the Leitz Park on the outskirts of Wetzlar, Leica photography can be experienced more intensely by guests than anywhere else. This unique site invites you to experience and be inspired by first-rate exhibitions, events, tours, and photo workshops. It offers a unique look into Leica’s company history as well as its manufactory.
Café Leitz
In Café Leitz, you can take a break in style. The purist design and a modern interior contrast with the explosion of tastes offered by the outstanding culinary delicacies. Homemade tarts, desserts, baked goods, cakes, and select coffee blends will turn your break into an experience before you know it.
Ernst Leitz Hotel
The striking silhouette of the Vienna House by Wyndham Ernst Leitz is the first thing to catch your eye at the Leitz Park. Inside, guests not only sleep soundly, but stylishly as well. The hotel sets the scene for the Leica brand in a very special way and opens new perspectives to the world of photography.
Oskar’s Restaurant
Oskar’s also immediately betrays its relation to photography through its color concept and many prints. With its open-concept kitchen and regional, fresh, and modern cuisine, the restaurant invites its guests to sample and share – true to the motto sharing is caring. Chef Marc Thron and his team pay particular attention to regionality in the process.
The Lahntal vacation region
Castles and fortresses, untouched nature and historical towns – Wetzlar is surrounded by countless tourist attractions. 150 idyllic river miles, pristine landscapes in the Lahn-Dill-Bergland nature park or the Burgwald uplands, monasteries, churches, and a lot more wait to be discovered. Whether on foot, in the water or by bike – everyone will find a way to stay active or simply unwind.
Information for commuters
Not all ways lead to Wetzlar – but many do. Below you can find out approximately how long it takes to reach the Leitz Park from certain cities.
25 minutes from Gießen
30 minutes from Limburg
40 minutes from Frankfurt
90 minutes from Cologne
You’ll reach the A5 in about 10 minutes.
