dresden tourist information kostenlos

19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Dresden

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Dresden, one of Europe's greatest Baroque cities, about 30 kilometers north of the border with the Czech Republic, stands majestically astride the Elbe River. It was the seat of the Saxon rulers, who lavished their attention on its riverside palaces and soaring churches, and left the city with their vast collections of art and antiquities.

This wealth of historic artifacts — it even includes beautifully preserved royal clothing — is displayed today in world-class museums. However rich Dresden's treasures and proud its heritage, modern history has not been kind to the city. Dresden suffered the double blow of almost complete destruction in World War II, followed by 45 years of postwar neglect under the Soviet regime.

It's hard to believe all this from the Dresden you see today. It has risen from its ashes and bears few scars from its late 20th-century trauma. Palaces glitter, gardens bloom, and the dome of the magnificently restored Frauenkirche again stands out above the skyline.

With its wealth of museums, palaces, and other tourist attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Dresden. But don't spend all your time hurrying between these points of interest; take time to stroll along Brühl's Terrace, admire the river from one of its bridges, and smell the roses in its romantic gardens. You can find the best places to visit in this gracious and beautiful city with this list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Dresden.

See also: Where to Stay in Dresden

1. Dresden Frauenkirche

2. dresden royal palace and museums, 3. zwinger and old masters picture gallery, 4. semper opera and theaterplatz, 5. the great garden and zoo, 6. stroll along brühl's terrace, 7. pillnitz palace and gardens, 8. dresden kulturpalast, 9. the georgentor and the procession of princes, 10. the japanese palace and the golden horseman, 11. albertinum, 12. cruise the elbe on a paddlewheeler, 13. hike in saxon switzerland, 14. take a day trip to meissen, 15. dresden transport museum, 16. shopping and gallery hopping in the neustadt, 17. moritzburg palace, 18. a weekend getaway in the erzgebirge, 19. the german hygiene museum, where to stay in dresden for sightseeing.

Dresden's spectacular Frauenkirche is one of the most remarkable reconstruction projects ever to have taken place in Germany, if not the world. Completed in 1743, the spectacular Baroque original was considered one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. After its destruction during Allied bombing in 1945, the ruins of the old building were cataloged and stored for use in its reconstruction.

After the reunification of Germany in 1990, plans to rebuild developed rapidly, and when it reopened in 2005, nearly 4,000 original stones had been included. Topping it all - and as a symbol of international goodwill - was a gold cross provided by Great Britain, whose bomb had wrought much of the devastation.

The vast interior is simply spectacular. The restored high altar is a fantasy of Baroque flourishes highlighted in gold, and tier after tier of galleries rings its walls. You can take an elevator to the dome for views of the city, participate in worship services (once a month in English) and listen to one of the more than 100 concerts performed here each year.

Stop for a reflective moment to look at the cross that once topped the dome, its twisted remains found amid the rubble. An exhibition describes the reconstruction project, which was funded by contributions from all over the world. Guided tours are available.

Address: Georg-Treu-Platz 3, 01067 Dresden

If you have time to see nothing else in Dresden, it should be this and the Frauenkirche. One of Europe's richest and probably its oldest public museum (although the Vatican disputes this), the Dresden State Art Collection , inside the Dresden Royal Palace , is also one of its most modern and forward-looking in terms of displaying and interpreting its treasures for visitors.

Priceless art, opulent court clothing, intricate needlework, even Augustus the Strong's personal garden tools are shown and their significance explained. All the detailed labeling and background information is also in English, and cases housing the dazzling collections from the fabled Green Vault are in non-reflective glass, so you can admire (and photograph) them from all sides with a clear view from every angle.

The original Green Vault, largely destroyed with the rest of the palace in World War II, has been reconstructed to house parts of the collection in their original settings. This extraordinary collection includes masterpieces of gold, silver, jewelry, and ivory from the 14th to 18th centuries, all of which had been removed to safety at the onset of the war.

From 1485, the castle was the home of Saxony's electors and kings, and it was Augustus the Strong who decided that the royal collections should be open for the public to enjoy. In 1723, he began to turn the formerly private treasure chambers into a public museum.

In addition to the treasures of the Green Vault, the Turkish Chamber , established in 1614, houses one of the world's largest collections of artifacts from the Ottoman Empire. Other collections include the Numismatic Cabinet of medals and seals; the Dresden Armory of weapons and armor; and the Print Cabinet , containing graphic art, drawings, watercolors, and pastels by European artists from the 15th century onward.

Not content to imitate the delicate, original Renaissance sgraffito decoration on the exterior walls with painted designs, Dresden has chosen instead to replicate it exactly, and master stone artists are still painstakingly engraving the intricate designs into the stone. In the courtyard, step close to the decorated walls to appreciate the detail of the carved lines.

Address: Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden

The Zwinger — a magnificent early 18th-century palace in the center of the city beside the Elbe — is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Germany. It's worth walking around the outside just to appreciate its architecture. On its south side is the majestic 32-bayed Long Gallery, and flanking it to the east and west are four symmetrically arranged pavilions, the Wallpavillon and the Nymphenbad (Bath of the Nymphs), with its graceful fountains and mythological figures.

Aside from its impressive architecture, the Zwinger houses more of the Dresden State Art Collections. These include the Dresden Porcelain Collection and scientific instruments in the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments .

In the new Zwinger Xperience exhibit, you can immerse yourself in festivals, parades, and the drama of the remarkable building through panorama projections and virtual reality stations.

The Old Masters Picture Gallery, the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister , features about 750 paintings from the 15th to the 18th centuries, among them Italian Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, Correggio, and Tintoretto. The collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings includes works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Dyck, and Vermeer.

Address: Sophienstraße, 01067 Dresden /

The west side of Dresden's Theaterplatz, one of Germany's finest public squares, is dominated by the magnificent Semperoper , the city's opera house, built in the style of the Italian High Renaissance. To see the lavishly decorated interior, either attend a performance (which includes concerts, ballet, and opera) or take a spirited tour led by one of the staff, who will share tales of some of the great performers and guests as you tour.

In the center of Theaterplatz stands an equestrian statue from 1883 of King John, and at the southeast corner stands the Altstädter Wache, the Old Town Guard-House , built in 1831 and modeled on the famous Guardhouse in Berlin . To the southeast is the Taschenbergpalais , a Baroque palace dating from 1711.

Address: Theaterplatz 2, 01067 Dresden

The lovely Great Garden (Großer Garten) was laid out in the French Baroque style beginning in 1676 and has been open to the public since 1814. The Sommerpalais , built between 1678 and 1683, is one of the earliest Baroque palaces in Germany. Also in the park are the Dresden Zoo and the Dresden Botanical Garden , where more than 10,000 species are arranged geographically for a world tour of plant life.

The Dresden Zoo, one of Germany's oldest, is home to more than 1,500 animals, representing all the continents. Through large glass panels, you can watch Humboldt penguins swim, and both the ring-tailed lemur island and the Tundra aviary are visitor accessible. More than 450 plants and trees keep the Africa House looking like home for the elephants.

Along with the zoo, another attraction for families is the miniature railway, the six-kilometer-long Parkeisenbahn, staffed largely by children. It is a good way to get from one attraction to another and to the frequent concerts and performances that are held in the park. Of interest to car enthusiasts is Volkswagen's Transparent Factory , an assembly plant that offers tours of the manufacturing and assembly processes.

Address: Hauptallee 8, 01219 Dresden

No trip to Dresden is complete without a stroll along Brühl's Terrace, or Brühlsche Terrasse, also known as the "Balcony of Europe." Approached from the Schlossplatz by a broad flight of steps, this area on the site of the old city ramparts was laid out in 1738 as a private garden, and opened to the public in 1814.

The sculptured groups on the staircase represent morning, noon, evening, and night, and the Dolphin Fountain is the only part left of the original garden. Bordering part of this promenade is the College of Art , built in 1894. The Moritz Monument , the oldest one surviving in Dresden, was erected in 1553. Below, the Terrassenufer on the banks of the Elbe is the main landing stage for cruise boats.

Address: Georg-Treu-Platz 1, 01067 Dresden

In the 1720s, Augustus the Strong ordered a pair of Baroque summer palaces built beside the Elbe, where he could entertain at costume parties and sporting contests. Decorated in the then-popular Chinoiserie style, they face each other across a garden.

Schloss Pillnitz later became the royal family's summer residence, and in 1820 the Neoclassical New Palace was built, forming the third side of the Pleasure Garden . During all this time, the gardens grew and expanded across the estate, each new addition reflecting the tastes and styles of its era, until they stretched across much of the 77-acre park.

Apart from the beauty of their design, their charm lies in the way the Baroque, Neoclassical, and English landscape styles merge harmoniously. Wander through them to find hedge gardens; wooded landscapes; an English Pavilion reflected in a lily pond; a Chinese garden: a tropical Palm House, and the garden's prized possession, one of Europe's oldest camellia trees , now almost 30 meters tall.

The palaces are worth touring, both for their Chinese-inspired decorations and for the museums they house. The Museum of Decorative Arts and the Crafts Museum contain furniture, musical instruments, glass, pewter, porcelain, and textiles from State Arts Collections, and there is a reconstruction of the New Palace kitchens .

You can get to Pillnitz from Dresden by bus, but the best way to arrive is by paddle steamer , floating along the Elbe, under the famed Blue Wonder Bridge and past the three Schlösser (castles) on the Elbe: the late Neoclassical Albrechtsberg , Lignerschloss (built in 1850), and the Neo-Gothic Schloss Eckberg (built 1859-61).

Address: August-Böckstiegel-Straße 2, 01326 Dresden

The pride of GDR architecture when it opened in 1969 as a "House of Socialist Culture" during the Soviet era, the Dresden Kulturpalast was given new life in a complete redesign of its interior as a state-of-the-art home for the Dresden Philharmonic. After some controversy, its overtly Soviet exterior mural "The Red Flag" and the wall fresco "Our Socialist Life" were retained, a rare glimpse of GDR Dresden.

While the exterior may be in the spirit of Eastern Modernism, the interior of the auditorium is strikingly 21 st -century, with dramatic red seats descending in layers to the central podium, and folded ceilings and walls to provide outstanding acoustics.

In contrast to the classical sounds of the Dresden Philharmonic, the Kulturpalasat will be home to Die Herkuleskeule cabaret theater , known as one of Germany's best.

Address: Schloßstraße 2, 01067 Dresden

The Georgentor, or Georgenbau, was the original city exit to the Elbe Bridge and the first of the city's many Renaissance buildings. On the west side is a doorway from the original building with its rich sculptural decoration, including an equestrian statue of Duke George. Also of interest is the Langer Gang , a long wing linking the Georgenbau with the Johanneum that was built in 1591.

Along its inner side is a long Tuscan-style arcade, with 22 rounded arches, leading to the Court Stables. Its most important attraction, however, is the famous Fürstenzug - the Procession of Princes - a 102-meter-long portrait of the Dukes, Electors, and Kings of the house of Wettin, together with leading German figures from the arts and sciences. Commissioned in 1870, it consists of 25,000 Meissen Porcelain tiles.

Address: Schloßstraße 1, 01067 Dresden

In the Neustädter Markt, across the river in Dresden Neustadt (the city's newer district) is the statue of Augustus the Strong in the pose of a Caesar, wearing Roman armor and seated on a horse. Made in 1736, it's commonly known as the Golden Horseman and is one of the city's most popular landmarks. It sits at the beginning of a long Hauptstrasse, a wide boulevard with a tree-lined promenade at its center, a popular place for an evening stroll.

Also here is the Japanese Palace, or Japanisches Palais, a Baroque and Neoclassical-style mansion, built in 1737. Richly decked with Chinoiserie, it was built to house Augustus the Strong's collection of porcelain (now the Dresden Porcelain Collection), but now houses the State Museum for Prehistory and the Museum of Ethnology Dresden . Another nearby attraction, housed in the 16th-century Jägerhof, is the Saxon Museum of Folk Art .

Address: Palaisplatz 11, 01097 Dresden

Built between 1884 and 1887, the Renaissance Revival Albertinum on Brühl's Terrace is as spectacular as the world-class art collection it houses. The museum is best known for its impressive New Masters Gallery , with its rich collection of works of the Romantic and Realist periods, as well as French, Polish, Romanian, Hungarian, and Belgian paintings of the 19th century and German Impressionists and Expressionists.

Artists and styles represented range from Degas and Goya to Max Liebermann. Other highlights are the Sculpture Collection , including examples from Egypt and western Asia as well as Greek, Roman, and Etruscan work.

Address: Skulpturensammlung, Albertinum Tzschirnerplatz 2, D-01067 Dresden

The Elbe flows through the center of Dresden, and along its shore, under Brühl's Terrace, are moored a fleet of paddlewheel steamships and other excursion boats of the Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt, Saxon Steamship Company . Cruises range from 90-minute tours of the city and its surroundings to longer trips that take you beneath the dramatic rock towers of Saxon Switzerland.

You can also buy tickets for travel between 14 towns along the Elbe, a good way to get to Meissen or to the Pilnitz Palace. A day ticket that allows you to hop on and off whenever you like is a good way to spend a day exploring the Elbe towns. Lunch and romantic evening cruises, as well as special themed departures, are another option for seeing the river.

A favorite day trip from Dresden is to Saxon Switzerland National Park , only 30 kilometers southeast of Dresden, a wild landscape of soaring limestone pillars, with views straight down to the Elbe. Walking trails form a network throughout the park, with paths for all levels of energy, and since 1898, a little tram has carried tourists between the village of Bad Schandau and the waterfall at Lichtenhain .

The most famous sight is the Bastei Bridge , a 76-meter-high stone arched bridge that connects the rock formations. You can hike there or reach it by public transportation.

There are several ways to get to Saxon Switzerland from Dresden: by car, by S-Bahn trains that leave Dresden twice each hour, by excursion boats, or by one of the world's oldest paddle wheel steamboats (the most romantic way).

For an in-depth look at the natural wonders of this park, you can take a Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park Day Trip from Dresden , which includes Bastei Bridge, and a trip across the border into the Czech Republic to Pravčická Gate , the biggest natural sandstone arch in Europe.

Only 30 kilometers to the west and easy to reach on a day trip from Dresden, Meissen was once the seat of the long-reigning Wettin dynasty. They made their home in the Albrechtsburg Castle , which towers above the town and river atop a high hill (the climb through narrow lanes is picturesque but steep - you can avoid it by riding the funicular).

Founded in the 15th century, the castle is one of the finest secular buildings of the Late Gothic period, and its most notable feature is its large spiral staircase. Inside, the rooms have richly decorated vaulting and ceilings, with paintings dating from 1870. Adjoining it atop the crag is the Early Gothic Meissen Cathedral , dating from 1260.

It is an almost pure Gothic building, with nothing but its Protestant pulpit, pews, and organ changed from its medieval appearance. The original front entrance was closed to preserve the early graves in the floor.

Meissen has long been famous for its porcelain, and a top tourist attraction is the Porcelain Factory . A tour there not only includes a look at examples of their work over the past 300 years, but a chance to watch as skilled artists mold objects, sculpt the delicate blossoms, and figures that adorn Meissen figurines and paint flowers on plates and teacups.

The silver mining town of Freiberg , about 40 kilometers southwest of Dresden, is also home to a stunning cathedral, a Late Gothic hall-church with the oldest and largest surviving Silbermann organ in Saxony. The town's historic center is listed as a national monument.

Address: Domplatz 1, D-01662 Meissen

In the Johanneum, one of the oldest buildings in Dresden's Neumarkt, is the Transport Museum, or Verkehrsmuseum. Historic vehicles, including aircraft, steam engines, cars, motorbikes, and watercraft are displayed in engaging exhibits. The navigation exhibit, entered through a stylized ship's hull, explores 1,000 years of maritime history, its technology, and the people who lived and worked on the rivers and seas.

Other exhibits detail the progress of road transport from before the invention of motorized vehicles to the present, and a third follows the development of railways. A model railroad covers 325 square meters, with 26 locomotives pulling 115 cars through detailed models of Saxon villages and countryside. Nearby is the Peace Fountain, as well as the Bundeswehr Military History Museum , the museum of the German armed forces.

Address: Augustusstraße 1, 01067 Dresden

After a fire destroyed Altendresden on the right bank of the Elbe in 1685, the new town (Neustadt) was built in the Baroque style. After major bombing in World War II, this Neustadt was again rebuilt, restoring its Baroque architecture.

Behind its rows of elegant patrician homes hide courtyards that today house restaurants, boutiques, and shops. These courtyards and their passageways are popular places to go shopping, with Dresden's highest concentration of artisan studios and shops.

Stroll through the arcades that have developed in the Baroque townhouses at Hauptstrasse 9 through 19 to find handcrafts, artworks, fine gifts, and restaurants. Look here for original one-of-a-kind works and traditional crafts of the region (remember this is where many of Germany's Christmas decorations originated), and expect to see some being created as you watch.

Not far away, the Kunsthof Passage (Art Courtyard Passage) connects Alaunstrasse 70 with Görlitzer Strasse 21-25. In this enclave of five joined courtyards, you'll feel as though you have entered another world, a Bohemian one of art, color, whimsey, and, above all, creativity. Art galleries, studios, shops, and cafés fill five courtyards, each in a different and colorful theme.

In one, the drainpipes and spouts on a building front have been diverted to create musical instruments that play when it rains. Another courtyard is themed around animals, with bas-relief monkeys cavorting between the balconies.

About 14 kilometers northwest of Dresden is the remarkable Schloss Moritzburg , an Electoral hunting lodge and summer palace in the ochre and white of Saxon Baroque. Begun in 1544 as a modest hunting lodge, this stunning palace was given its present form between 1723 and 1736, with Baroque statues added on the balustrades of the carriage ramp and terrace. The decoration and furnishings of the interior, including hunting trophies and paintings, are preserved unaltered.

Also on the grounds is Little Pheasant Castle , an 18th-century hunting lodge whose extraordinary interior is decorated with rare Rococo finishes : inlaid paneling of exotic woods; mural paintings on canvas; painted and gilded ceiling stucco; painted wood and plaster; faux marble; and walls finished in embroidered silk, feathers, and a remarkable combination of straw and pearls. This rare interior has recently been restored by the World Monuments Fund.

It's Christmas all year-round in the Erzgebirge, or Ore Mountains, about 90 minutes from Dresden and one of the most fascinating and little-known regions in Saxony. The long mining history led to a wooden Christmas ornament industry, which has remained active long after the mines closed.

The central town in the region is Annaberg-Buchholz, crowned by the magnificent St. Annenkirche , a landmark with its 78-meter-high tower. Like much else in the town, the interior of the church is decorated with exceptionally fine woodcarvings . Opposite is a historical museum where you can enter an actual mine, one of the many that lie beneath the ground here.

To see more examples of the woodcarving the region is famed for (many traditional German Christmas folk arts — wooden arches, Christmas carousels, wood-shaving ornaments, and wooden angels to name a few — originated here) visit the Manufaktur der Träume (maker of dreams), a museum filled with stunning examples of carved and painted Christmas and other decorations and toys.

Just outside the Old Town, the Frohnauer Hammer is a museum that includes a fascinating iron-working mill driven by water power.

To the southeast of Dresden's old town is Lingnerplatz, home to the German Hygiene Museum (Deutsches Hygiene-Museum), an institution founded in 1912 to promote health education and healthy living. The museum is more interesting than you'd expect from its name - it's really a museum dedicated to medicine and medical practices.

Among its many interesting exhibits are the famous Glass Woman, first displayed in 1930; a permanent exhibit dealing with the human race; and a fun interactive children's museum that focuses on the senses.

Address: Lingnerplatz 1, 01069 Dresden

The dazzlingly restored old town (Innere Altstadt) contains Dresden's top attractions and is a convenient place to stay despite its crush of tourists in the summer. To be within walking distance of the Frauenkirche and Zwinger but away from crowds, consider the Neustadt neighborhood, just across the river and close to the Japanese Palace and folk art museum. These highly rated hotels in Dresden are all near the major tourist attractions.

Luxury Hotels :

• A few steps from Frauenkirche, in the center of the old town, Hotel Suitess zu Dresden has large well-furnished rooms and superior service.
• The stylish and almost playful contemporary design of rooms at Hyperion Hotel Dresden am Schloss , between Frauenkirche and the Residenz, is a nice contrast to the surrounding Baroque architecture.
• A short walk from the Zwinger and historic center, Bulow Palais and its Michelin-starred restaurant are in Neustadt, away from the high-season crowds.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Offering spacious, modern rooms and on-site indoor parking, Innside by Melia Dresden is a few steps from Frauenkirche.
• Halfway between Frauenkirche and the Royal Palace, the new Amedia Plaza Dresden offers chic, modern rooms in the Jüdenhof, a building with a rich Jewish history.
• A few blocks away and overlooking the popular Altmarkt square, Star Inn Hotel Premium Dresden im Haus Altmarkt has large well-decorated rooms, between the historic and shopping districts.

Budget Hotels:

• A block from Altmarkt and a short walk from Frauenkirche, Premier Inn Dresden City Zentrum is on a main shopping street close to the Hauptbahnhof rail station.
• Don't be put off by the name of Motel One Dresden-Palaisplatz. It's not a motel but a smart modern hotel with spacious rooms and accommodating staff, just across the river in the Neustadt.
• Right at the station, InterCityHotel Dresden is a 10-minute walk from the main sights and the zoo/botanic garden attractions, or take advantage of the hotel's free city tram tickets to go everywhere.
• Ibis Budget Dresden City is close to the museums of the Zwinger and Residenz palaces and has quiet rooms despite its location in a busy shopping district.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit near Dresden: An easy train or car trip away, Leipzig is also a center of art and culture, and the leading city in Saxony after Dresden. Not far south of Dresden is Prague , the capital of the Czech Republic , crowned by the beautiful Prague Castle .

Where to Go from Dresden: To the north and connected by direct rail and highways is Berlin , the capital of Germany and its largest city, filled with museums and art galleries . Close to Berlin is Potsdam , like Dresden a city filled with royal palaces.

More on Germany

Tourist Informationen for Dresden and surroundings

Information about current events, tours, addresses,  tourism associations, tourist boards and also some offers to overnight stays in Dresden and surroundings.

Tourist-Information Dresden

QF-Passage Neumarkt 2 D-01067 Dresden Phone: 0351 501501 Fax: 0351 501509 www.dresden.de

Dresden Tourism Association

Messering 7 01067 Dresden Tel.: 0351 50160395 Fax: 0351 50160396 info(at)tvdd.de www.tvdd.de

DRESCHER Incoming & Tourismus GmbH

Münzgasse 10 01067 Dresden Tel.: 0351 4381111 Fax: 0351 4381122 www.drescher-tourismus.de

SAECHSISCHE SCHWEIZ

Tourism office bad schandau.

Markt 12 D-01814 Bad Schandau Phone: 035022 90030 Fax: 035022 90034 info(at)bad-schandau.de www.bad-schandau.de

Tourist-Service Pirna

Kultur- und Tourismusgesellschaft Pirna Markt 7 (CANALETTO Haus) D-01796 Pirna Phone: 03501 556446 Fax: 03501 556449 www.pirna.de

Tourism Association Saechsische Schweiz e. V.

Bahnhofstr. 21 D-01796 Pirna Phone: 03501 470147 Fax: 03501 470148 info(at)saechsische-schweiz.de www.saechsische-schweiz.de

RADEBEUL | MEISSEN & Saechsisches Elbland

Tourist information meißen.

Markt 3 D-01662 Meissen Phone: 03521 41940 Fax: 03521 419419 service(at)touristinfo-meissen.de www.touristinfo-meissen.de

Tourist-Information Radebeul

Hauptstrasse 12 D-01445 Radebeul Phone: 0049 351 8311830 Fax: 0049 351 8311833 tourismus(at)radebeul.de www.radebeul.de

Weinboehla Tourist Information

Zentralgasthof Weinboehla Kirchplatz 2 D-01689 Weinböhla Phone: 035243 56000 Fax: 035243 560056 touristinfo(at)weinboehla.de www.weinboehla.de

Tourist Information Coswig

Karrasstrasse 2 D-01640 Coswig Phone: 03523 66330 Fax: 03523 66339 stadt(at)coswig.de www.coswig.de

Tourism Association Dresden Elbland e.V.

Dresdner Straße 7 D-01662 Meissen Phone: 03521 76350 Fax: 03521 763540 info(at)elbland.de www.elbland.de

Winemaker Cooperative Society Meissen

Bennoweg 9 D-01662 Meissen Phone: 03521 780970 Fax: 03521 7809728 info(at)winzergenossenschaft-meissen.de www.winzergenossenschaft-meissen.de

< Start of page >

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Present
• 1.3 Orientation
• 1.5 Tourist information
• 2.1.1 Dresden Airport
• 2.1.2 Other nearby airports
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 On foot
• 3.2.1 By tram (Straßenbahn)
• 3.2.2 Other modes of transport
• 3.2.3 Tickets
• 3.4 By bicycle
• 3.5 Alternative transport
• 4.1 Innere Altstadt
• 4.2 Dresdner Neustadt
• 4.3 Around Großer Garten
• 4.4 Further afield
• 4.5.1 Part of the SKD
• 4.5.2 Part of Museen der Stadt Dresden
• 4.5.3 Other
• 5.1 Culture
• 5.3 Festivals & events
• 6.1 Markets
• 7.1.1 Historic centre (Altstadt)
• 7.1.2 Neustadt
• 7.2.1 Historic centre (Altstadt)
• 7.2.2 Neustadt
• 7.2.3 Eastern Dresden
• 7.3 Splurge
• 8.1 Altstadt
• 8.2 Neustadt
• 9.1.1 in the city center:
• 9.1.2 near the city center:
• 9.1.3 in Dresden Neustadt:
• 9.1.4 in the outskirts:
• 9.2.1 Altstadt
• 9.2.2 Neustadt and other districts
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10 Stay safe
• 12.1 Medical

Dresden is the capital of Saxony ( Sachsen ). It's often referred to locally as Elbflorenz , or "Florence on the Elbe", reflecting its location on the Elbe river and its historical role as a centre for the arts and beautiful architecture - much like Florence in Italy. While Florence flourished during the early renaissance, the Golden Age of Dresden was in the 18th century when, under August the Strong and his son, Friedrich August II, Saxony was a rich and important state and the rulers invested in lavish architectural projects in their capital and supported artists of worldwide renown.

At the end of World War II in Europe , Dresden suffered catastrophic damage from Allied bombing, and then lost much of its remaining architectural heritage at the hands of East German city planners. However, the city has managed to resurrect some of its charm by rebuilding various landmarks. The reconstruction of the famous Frauenkirche was completed just in time for the what was marketed as the city's 800th birthday in 2006 (dated from the first mention in extant historical documents, as is common in Germany).

Today, Dresden remains a charming, relaxed and in many ways beautiful city and has become a very popular tourist destination, in addition to being a regional economic, political and academic centre. About ten million tourists visit Dresden annually, most from within Germany. International visitors most frequently come from the Czech Republic, the USA and Japan.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ]

Dresden is over 800 years old, having become a city in 1206. Many Saxon princes, dukes and kings called Dresden home, the most famous of them being August der Starke (Augustus the Strong), who was also King of Poland . The many buildings and rich art collections that date from this era, are testimony to the monarchs' extreme wealth. Raphael's Sistine Madonna , a famous oil painting of the Virgin Mary, was bought by the son of August the Strong, and is on display in Dresden. The last Saxon king abdicated in 1918, famously saying " macht doch euern Dregg aleene " (roughly translated from the original Saxon as "do your dirty work yourselves") when he did so.

Three quarters of the historical centre of Dresden was destroyed by Allied bombing on 13 February 1945. Between 20,000 and 30,000 people died in the firestorms; the exact number is unknown. There were fewer victims than those of bombings in other cities, both in absolute terms and as a percentage of the population, but Dresden is the only major German city where the air raids are still a major aspect of public debate and city politics. The bombings are still remembered each year in processions and ceremonies, but the anniversary has also been used by Neo-Nazis for demonstrations, which in turn attracted anti-fascist counter-demonstrations. For many years the ruins of the Frauenkirche (now rebuilt) with its gold cross donated by a British charity called the Dresden Trust - acted as a call for peace among the nations of the world. The city's historical centre has largely been restored to its former glory, with other areas still being rebuilt.

During the era of German partition, the area around Dresden came to be known as "Tal der Ahnungslosen" ("valley of the clueless") as it was one of very few parts of East Germany which could not get West German television. Similarly the abbreviation "ARD" for the west German first TV channel was variously interpreted as "Außer Raum Dresden" and "Außer Rügen und Dresden" ("Except the Dresden Area"/"Except Rügen and Dresden").

In 1989 protests erupted in Dresden, especially when people who had taken refuge in the West German embassy in Prague were transported to West Germany via Dresden main station (which was sealed off for the occasion). Protests in Dresden never reached the scale they did in Leipzig or East Berlin, but there is a memorial plaque for the 1989 events in Prager Straße among other places.

Present [ edit ]

The Zwinger was rebuilt in 1964, the Semper Opera house in 1985, and the most famous Dresden landmark, the Frauenkirche, in 2005. When asked what they like most about their city, Dresden citizens will reply: the Old Town (which is quite compact, even though it has a lot of well-known attractions and museums of worldwide importance), Dresden-Neustadt (an alternative central quarter) and the nearby towns like Radebeul , known for its wine (and birthplace of Karl May, a famous German author of wild-west novels), the climbing area of Saxon Switzerland and lots of castles. Architecturally, Blasewitz is the most interesting residential neighbourhood, despite it being a hilly landscape. It has many Gründerzeit buildings, from before the 1871 founding of the German Empire and its first three decades of existence.

Many historic sandstone buildings are black. That's not necessarily a result of fire or pollution, as the local sandstone naturally blackens after a while. You can see this natural phenomenon in the nearby Saxon Switzerland and on paintings of Dresden from the 18th century, where the sandstone buildings are black as well.

Dresden was an important city in the German Democratic Republic and architecture from that era is still very visible in the city. In the city centre, Prager Straße and the Kulturpalast are typical examples of such architecture. If you leave the centre you will find a lot of apartment blocks, called Plattenbau , which are also common in neighbouring Poland, eastern Europe and Russia. Gorbitz and Prohlis especially were (re)-built in the 1970s and 1980s in the then-modern Plattenbau style. Very few traces of World War II are still visible in the city.

The time since German reunification hasn't left too many architectural marks on the city yet, but some, such as the controversial Waldschlößchenbrücke bridge that cost Dresden's Elbe Valley its designation as a world heritage site, are very visible even to the casual observer.

Orientation [ edit ]

Dresden is very much oriented around the Elbe river, which meanders through the city, but not as much as the Seine in Paris , for example. Therefore, it is always easy to distinguish between the left, southwestern bank and the right, northeastern one. In general, the left bank is relatively flat and more densely built-up, while the right bank is hilly and to a large extent covered by the Dresdner Heide forest.

Dresden has, over the years, expanded broadly and swallowed surrounding settlements, so that now the city is larger by area than Munich despite having only roughly a third of its inhabitants. Much of Dresden, however, is of little interest to most tourists. In general, the interesting districts are Altstadt ("old town", on the left bank) and Neustadt ("new town", on the right bank immediately opposite). Their historic cores are the Innere Altstadt and Innere Neustadt, respectively. Äußere (outer) Neustadt is a district with a lot of bars and restaurants and generally known for being inhabited by "alternative" people, students, artists and hipsters. In general "Neustadt" used in a generic sense will refer to the äußere Neustadt. Other districts of interest are Loschwitz and Weißer Hirsch in the eastern part of the right bank, being the city's most exclusive residential areas; the Pillnitz royal residence; and Klotzsche, because Dresden airport is in that district.

Read [ edit ]

Victor Klemperer's diaries, first published in English across two volumes in 1995 as I Will Bear Witness , offer a vivid account of life in Dresden from 1933 to 1945. Klemperer was one of the few people of Jewish descent in Dresden who not only survived the war but decided to stay in Germany after 1945. His book The Language of the Third Reich: LTI—Lingua Tertii Imperii: A Philologist's Notebook is a detailed analysis of how language can be used to manipulate a culture. It's a classic of its kind and still relevant today. Klemperer did not consider himself Jewish, but he was persecuted as one by the Nazi regime. He also wrote diaries during the times before and after the Nazi regime which were also published in book form but are less famous.

Another of Dresden's famous sons is Erich Kästner ( Emil and the Detectives , Lottie and Lisa ); his book When I Was a Little Boy is about his childhood in Dresden's Neustadt during the 1900s.

Der Turm (published in English as The Tower: Tales from a Lost Country ) is a novel about life in Dresden's more bourgeois parts (Loschwitz/Weißer Hirsch) during the last years of East Germany. Written by Dresden native Uwe Tellkamp, it was made into a TV movie with Dresden native Jan Josef Liefers in one of the leading roles.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Dresden tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ], dresden airport [ edit ].

The fastest connection from Dresden Airport to the city centre is the local train ( S-Bahn ),   S2   , which takes 12 minutes to reach Dresden Neustadt and 20 minutes to reach the main station. The trains run every 30 minutes. Another option is to take the bus (line 77 or 97) and then change for tram   7   at the Infineon Nord stop (the connection is announced in English and German over loudspeakers).

Other nearby airports [ edit ]

The other airport in Saxony, Leipzig/Halle Airport ( LEJ  IATA ), has a wider range of international destinations, and a direct railway connection to Dresden. Intercity (direct) and ICE (change in Leipzig) trains take less than 90 minutes to get from the airport to Dresden Main Station ( Hauptbahnhof / Hbf ), with one-way full-fare tickets at around €30. Slightly slower, but cheaper, is the regional train service. Take the S-Bahn to Leipzig Hbf and then the hourly Saxonia Express RE to Dresden; this takes roughly two hours. If you are in a group of between two and five people, the cheapest price for that connection is the Sachsen-Ticket which costs €25, plus €8 for each extra person (2022). It's valid on all trains except ICE, IC and EC, and most trams and buses throughout Saxony, Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt. There is also a reduced price option for local trains called Regio 120 Ticket that costs €20 for the Leipzig/Halle airport to Dresden main station trip and is available at all times, unlike saver fares for IC and ICE which start at €19 but are subject to limited availability. If you have a BahnCard 25, there is a discount on the IC and ICE saver fare but not on the Sachsen Ticket or the Regio 120 Ticket.

As with the rest of Saxony, the geographic proximity and good road and rail links make it relatively convenient to fly into Berlin Brandenburg Airport ( BER  IATA ), from where there is a direct IC train to Dresden, Prague ( PRG  IATA ) via Czech highway D8 and German autobahn (150 km), or Wrocław ( WRO  IATA ).

From Frankfurt Airport ( FRA  IATA ) there are various Intercity and ICE trains either direct (from Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbahnhof) or via Frankfurt or Leipzig main stations.

By train [ edit ]

Regular trains arrive from the rest of Germany (Leipzig, Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich) and from Prague, Vienna, Zürich, Bratislava and Budapest. Flixtrain serves the city.

Dresden is served by two big stations, which are both called at by most trains running through or terminating in Dresden. The Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is on the left bank of the Elbe, whereas Neustadt station is on the right bank.

For a German city of its size, train connections to Dresden are slow, due to underinvestment during and since the GDR era. The lines from Berlin and Leipzig reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h, though many sections are much slower. The line from Prague traverses the Elbe valley on a stunningly beautiful but curvy, slow and congested route. The line from Wroclaw is only electrified on the Polish side while the line from Nuremberg is only electrified between Dresden and Hof (making a change of trains necessary either in Hof or in Leipzig).

If you're coming from Saxony-Anhalt or Thuringia, the best option might be to use a Länder-Ticket as there's an arrangement between those two states and Saxony, whereby a Land-Ticket from one state is also valid in the other two.

The connection between Dresden and Wrocław has been on and off, but is now served by Trilex for a flat fare of €33 round trip (within 14 days). Group and family discounts are available.

By car [ edit ]

Dresden can be easily reached by car from the rest of Germany. It is well connected with the German autobahn system and there's also a direct motorway to Prague . The network is prone to congestion during school holidays. Try to avoid the Friday and Saturday at the beginning of school holidays in the state you are driving in; the website Schulferien lists school holidays for each state.

By bus [ edit ]

• 51.040089 13.730236 4 Intercity bus station platform 1 and 2 .  
• 51.039368 13.731823 5 Intercity bus station platform 5, 6 and 7 .  

The main operator of long-distance buses in Germany, and by far the biggest operator in Dresden is Flixbus . There are more operators in Dresden than other German cities because it is close to the Czech and Polish borders and part of the Berlin-Prague route (which is not served by high speed rail ). This means bus routes to Dresden are still competitive in terms of journey times and price. Other operators with routes to Dresden include RegioJet , Eurolines , Arda Tur , Racic Eurobus and Union Ivkoni .

Most buses stop "behind" the main train station (from the train station looking south, with Prager Straße to your back). The station is easily reachable. Several shops are close to the station, and those in the main station are also open on Sundays and on public holidays. Flixbus has a ticket office opposite the station and you can buy tickets for most of the other operators in the station building.

(However, be sure to check your bus ticket. As of summer 2023 , repairs are taking place at the main bus stop, and buses stop instead at the Busparkplatz Ammonstraße - where the Budapester Straße overpass crosses over Ammonstraße, and at the Budapester Straße tram stop. There are no facilities at this parking lot, not even a bench, but the train station is not far away.)

Some Flixbus lines also stop close to Bahnhof Neustadt , which is a less busy station.

A handful of buses also serve Dresden airport , which is really only useful in the unlikely event that you are flying into/out of the airport but are not staying in Dresden. The airport is pretty out of the way and at least 20 minutes by S-Bahn from anything interesting.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ]

In the centre, especially in the historic part of the Old Town ( Altstadt ), everything is easily accessible on foot. (The city centre is not the geographical midpoint of the city). If you want to go to the outer districts (unlikely for most travelers) you will probably have to take a bike or public transport (most tram lines go well into the suburbs).

By public transport [ edit ]

Dresden has an extensive reliable and high quality (even by German standards) public transport system consisting of regional railways (called S-Bahn , historically Schnellbahn ), trams (called Straßenbahn ) and buses. Three ferries cross the Elbe and two cable car systems go up Loschwitz hill. The Straßenbahn and S-Bahn are two entirely separate networks, although there are tram stops at many S-Bahn stations. The system works very well and connects all points of interest, but can be a little busy at peak times. A common fare system is operated by Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe (DVB) , which is part of the larger Oberelbe Transport Network (VVO) . (VVO covers 27 municipalities in central Saxony.) VVO tickets are valid on all buses, trams, regional trains and some ferries within a particular zone in the VVO network area. The Sachsen ticket is now valid on buses and trams in Dresden as well so all information to the contrary is outdated.

Most lines run at night but with less frequency (and also slightly different routes, called "GuteNachtLinien") allowing you to get to most places such as restaurants without the necessity of using a car, including to far-flung places like Pillnitz , Radebeul or even Meißen (with the S-Bahn). At night almost all trams and some regional buses meet at Postplatz (called "Postplatztreffen") and wait for each other, to ensure connections. Trams that don't pass through Postplatz usually wait for connections at some other point. These stops are announced in both German and English. As the rerouting of the lines can be a tad confusing and the night-line plan is printed on a black background that is hard to read at night, you might wish to ask the driver or other passengers where the tram is going. Failing that the DVB has an app and offers the possibility to search for your tram in real time online. For the night time lines see here .

By tram (Straßenbahn) [ edit ]

Two tram lines are of particular interest to visitors:

• Line 4 , billed by the operator as Kultourlinie as one that takes you on a tour of cultural and other highlights
• Line 9 , is referred to by the operator as the Einkaufslinie ("shopping line"), connecting the main shopping centres and various areas of Dresden.

A unique feature of the tram system in Dresden (which is never used by passengers but will interest many) is the CarGoTram . It runs right through the city centre and delivers parts for the electric version of the VW Golf which is produced at the Transparent Factory (Gläserne Manufaktur) . The tram used to deliver parts for the Phaeton luxury car, production of which ended in 2016.

Other modes of transport [ edit ]

DVB operates three ferries on the Elbe:

• between Johannstadt and Neustadt
• between Niederpoyritz and Laubegast
• between Kleinzschachwitz and Pillnitz

There are also two separate cable car systems that go up the Loschwitz hill from the environs of Körnerplatz:

• a regular funicular goes towards the district of Weißer Hirsch
• a suspension railway (Schwebebahn) will take you to Oberloschwitz

Both systems were built at the turn from the 19th to the 20th century as a means of the inhabitants of the (then) expensive communities up the hill to get downtown and they still serve the residents of the area as such. However, they are marketed as a tourist attraction as well and a ride on them is not included on a normal day ticket for public transport (you, get a discount, though). Holders of weekly tickets can ride for free. As the system is quite old it is shut down for maintenance and inspection once a year, usually in early spring, so look at the website if you want to avoid going there just to see them not going.

Tickets [ edit ]

Often the best option is to buy a day ticket for €8 , cheaper for anyone 60 years old or older €6.70 . Or, for families, a family day ticket for €12.20 . It allows you to use all trams, buses, most ferries and trains (except InterCitys and ICEs) and is relatively cheap. It's valid until the next day at 04:00. You can also get a ticket limited to an hour (€3) and some others, but day tickets are good if you are travelling around and not sure where you will be going and what you will be doing.

You can buy tickets at yellow ticket vending machines in trams or buses, but ticket machines on platforms sell a wider selection of tickets. Ticket machines in trams only accept cards. Vending machines on platforms accept notes as well as coins. Don't forget to stamp your ticket as you enter the vehicle (day tickets only need to be stamped the first time you use them). Stamping machines in Dresden are usually shoe-boxed sized orange boxes near the doors of the tram/bus. Tickets (except the night ticket) bought from vending machines in trams do not need to be stamped.

As with most of Germany, public transport operates on the proof-of-payment system: you can enter any bus or tram you like, but are expected to be able to show a valid ticket if asked. If inspectors (there are always two of them) catch you without a valid ticket, you can be fined €60 . The exception is on the buses after 20:00, when passengers are expected to show their tickets to the driver on boarding.

The streets are very good and many roads have been refurbished, especially in the city centre. As in all bigger towns it can be a bit crowded during rush hours. During the Striezelmarkt (end of November till 24 Dec) traffic gets heavier, especially at weekends. A word of caution on driving during Dynamo home games: don't. Streets get crowded and police shut down several roads to allow fans on foot to pass, leading to confusion and congestion for cars. There are many parking lots in downtown Dresden and it should not be a problem to find a place to park, except on Saturdays when everyone goes to town for shopping. As parking can be expensive, consider parking on one of the various park&ride spots outside of town or leaving your car altogether, as public transport is excellent even by high German standards. A number of signs automatically display the number of parking spaces which are still free in lots in the immediate area. Shops are open from around 10:00 to 20:00, sometimes until 21:00 or 22:00. The Neustadt is particularly unfriendly to cars as most of its residential buildings (and thus the street grid) were built in the 19th century and have survived both world wars and overzealous urban planners. People in the neighborhood also have a reputation for burning cars they consider to be too luxurious or "extravagant", but it happens considerably less often than in Berlin.

By bicycle [ edit ]

Bikes are the fastest thing in rush hour traffic for short-to-medium distances and if you're in good shape and not afraid of traffic. Bikes are also good for longer distances as they can be carried (with a separate ticket €2.20 per day for one zone) in trams. There are many designated cycle paths (marked red on pavements, or with a white bike symbol on a blue background) and most times it's very easy to find a place to park your bike. But, as anywhere else, always use a good lock!

Cobblestone roads and sidewalks are still quite common, particularly in Neustadt as well as the historical parts of Altstadt. As they get slippery with even a little moisture and make for a bumpy ride on most bikes, you might wish to avoid those. Another concern for cyclists are tram tracks, as tyres can get stuck in them if you aren't careful. Crossing them at an angle close to 90 degrees should take care of that problem. It should go without saying that you shouldn't drive on or between the tracks when a tram is approaching.

The main bike-share service in Dresden is called MOBIbike (operated by Nextbike with DVB as the main partner). Their rates are €1 per 15 minutes with a maximum of €15 per (24 hour) day. You need to register before you can rent bikes. For more information on discounts and the technical details see their website.

Alternative transport [ edit ]

Dresden has a lot of cycle rickshaws, mostly operating around the Old Town. They offer a typical (short distance) taxi service and guided city tours. Horse-drawn carriages offer sightseeing.

Operators of bus tours of Dresden include Stadtrundtfahrt Dresden and |Dresdner Stadtrundfahrt – Die Roten Doppeldecker GmbH . Tickets can be bought around the Old Town at various points and indeed online.

See [ edit ]

Dresden is a very beautiful, light-spirited city, especially in summer, when you can appreciate the serene setting of the historic centre. Although Dresden is larger than Munich when measured by area, the historic centre is quite compact and walkable.

Innere Altstadt [ edit ]

Dresdner Neustadt [ edit ]

Very nice, lively neighbourhood. Part alternative, part "pseudo-exclusive" and expensive. Check out the Bunte Republik Neustadt festival in June. But you shouldn't leave your bicycle unattended without a good lock, as there can be a serious risk of damage to your bicycle as well as your car, especially on weekend nights.

Around Großer Garten [ edit ]

Further afield [ edit ]

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

Part of the SKD [ edit ]

The Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden (SKD, Dresden State Art Collections) , a state-owned institution, runs 15 museums in Dresden. Museums not listed here are covered above in the Zwinger Palace and the Residenzschloss (Royal Palace). An annual season ticket for all their museums costs €75 (in 2023).

Part of Museen der Stadt Dresden [ edit ]

The municipal museums and galleries are grouped together as Museen der Stadt Dresden . They generally provide free entry every Friday (except on holidays).

Other [ edit ]

Do [ edit ]

Culture [ edit ].

• Semperoper . Go to a performance or take a tour. Be sure to book in advance. Details are in the listing in the See section.
• 51.05378 13.72481 1 Hochschule für Musik Carl Maria von Weber Dresden ( Wettiner Platz 13 ), ☏ +49 351 4923696 . The music conservatoire hosts regular concerts and events at various venues. ( updated Apr 2018 )

Sport [ edit ]

• 51.04674 13.74425 3 Rollber Blade Night , Lingnerallee ( start opposite townhall at the big halfpipe ). F 21:00-23:00 . Blade Night starts at 21:00 every Friday from April to September, roughly 20 km through the city on blocked roads. Great fun and participation is free - you can rent rollerblades for €5. Free .  
• Dresdner Eislöwen . Ice hockey - Second National League.  
• Dresdner SC . Volleyball women - First National League.  
• Ice skating at the JoyNext Arena (   10   , Bus 94 Krankenhaus Friedrichstadt stop ). Indoor and outdoor, daily from the end of October to beginning of March. Skate rental available. "Ice Disco" with a DJ on Saturday evenings. Adults €4.50, children €3.50, €6 for ice disco . ( updated Oct 2016 )
• Rollerblading or rowing in small boats on the Carolasee in the Großer Garten .
• 51.091157 13.620787 8 Stauseebad Cossebaude ( Stausee Niederwartha ), Meißner Straße 26 ( Bus 75, 404, 423 Cossebaude An den Winkelwiesen ), [email protected] . On hot summer days, go swimming or windsurfing at this public bathing pool at the Stausee Niederwartha reservoir. Also includes a long waterslide and beach volleyball courts. Adults €4.00, children €2.20 .  

Festivals & events [ edit ]

• Filmfest Dresden ( International Short Film Festival ). In April . Short movies are shown throughout the cinemas of Dresden with entrants from a variety of countries, most of them with German or English subtitles. ( updated May 2023 )
• 51.075037 13.746947 11 Hechtfest , Hechtviertel ( S-Bahn S1, Tram 7, Bus 477: Bischofsplatz ), ☏ +49 176 73190302 , [email protected] . 3rd weekend of August . This annual three-day alternative street festival in Dresden's trendy Hechtviertel district offers dozens of street and backyard concerts, street raves, food stands, flea market, art and interactive performances, and attracts thousands of visitors from Dresden and beyond. The festival spans all streets in the Hechtviertel, with Rudolf-Leonhard-Straße and Hechtstraße being the main arteries.  
• Dresden Night of Museums ( Museumsnacht Dresden ), ☏ +49 351 4880 . At the end of June/beginning of July . An annual event opening many museums for one night (between 18:00 and 24:00). The ticket gives access to all participating museums, and provides free public transport. Adults €13, reduced €9, under 6 free . ( updated Dec 2021 )

• Math Adventure Land (website in German) . An entertaining hands-on exhibition on mathematics. Suitable for all ages, multilingual. Open Tuesdays to Sundays in the Technology Museum, Junghansstr. 1-3.
• Audio tour: Jewish life in Dresden 1933-1945 . Download the free map and audio tracks (in English) and take yourself on a walk covering the history of Jewish life in Dresden from 1933 to 1945. You will need several hours. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Buy [ edit ]

The main shopping district in Dresden extends along the pedestrianized Prager Straße , which runs from the Wiener Straße at the feet of the Hauptbahnhof to Dr.-Külz-Ring, and its extension Seestraße , which culminates in the Altmarkt , where the historic core of the city starts. Those streets are mostly filled with modern shopping centres, department stores and street-level retail, as well as national and international restaurant chains. There is nothing unique or exciting on offer, but the area is rather pleasant. More fancy and upmarket shops are generally clustered around the Frauenkirche. The larger stores traditionally cater to wealthy Russians and there is usually someone who speaks Russian and sometimes also Czech. English proficiency has historically been lacking, but Dresden is catching up fast and the more upmarket places will certainly be able to find someone who speaks sufficient English to deal with a potentially lucrative customer.

• 51.04649 13.73745 4 Galeria ( formerly Karstadt ). M-Sa 10:00 - 20:00 . The quintessential German department store, covering everything from apparel and footwear through groceries and delicatessen.  
• 51.04131 13.73465 6 [dead link] Prager Spitze ( at the southern end of Prager Straße ). Modern building with all types of shops and amenities.  

In the Äußere Neustadt area (north/east of Albertplatz), many small shops sell books, vinyl records and clothing. The Innere Neustadt (between Albertplatz and Elbe, mainly Haupstraße and Königstraße) is rather on a medium-to-fancy level.

• 51.067161 13.750403 8 ZentralOhrgan , Louisenstraße 22 (   7   Louisenstraße ), ☏ +49 351 8010075 , [email protected] . 11:00–19:00 . Well-known record store that was founded shortly after the Peaceful Revolution and offers new and second-hand vinyl.  

Markets [ edit ]

Farmers markets are organized throughout the week, selling regional products at various locations.

• 51.06019 13.74491 9 Neustädter Markthalle , Metzer Straße 1 , ☏ +49 351 8105445 . M-Sa 08:00-20:00, closed on Sundays. Opening hours of individual stalls varies . A market hall. ( updated Apr 2018 )

Eat [ edit ]

Dresden is particularly famous for its Stollen (a Christmas cake made from yeast dough with raisins, butter and almonds) Locals perennially discuss which bakery bakes the best Stollen. Another speciality is Dresdner Eierschecke , a cake with three layers: a thin base of yeast dough, a layer of quark pudding in the middle, and a broad layer of egg yolk cream on top.

Dresdner Wiegebraten is a mixture of minced pork, beef, white bread, eggs and spices. It is usually served with boiled or fried potatoes and sauce, often with vegetables. You can try it at the zum Wiegebraten restaurant.

The most typical fast (and inexpensive) food in Germany those days is doner kebab ( Döner Kebap ), typically served as a kind of sandwich in pita (flat bread) with salad and sauce. A typical kebab including a large drink should be around €5-6. The next step above doner kebab is Italian food. There are a certain number of ethnic restaurants scattered through the city, and if you go out to the eastern part of town, you will find lots of charming cafés and Volkshäuser that serve good food. As Dresden has a lower number of recent immigrants in general and people of Turkish descent in particular, the ethnic food is more of the Vietnamese or "Asian" variety, as those are the main immigrant groups in Dresden.

Within the historic centre (Altstadt ) and especially around the Frauenkirche are a number of restaurants, serving many different tastes. Be aware that, as this is a tourist hotspot, there are many tourist traps here which you may find overpriced and of low quality.

The Neustadt accounts for most of the trendy pubs, bars and clubs, and the majority of the restaurants in the city. You will generally have better luck finding decent food for a reasonable price north of Albertplatz in Neustadt.

The eastern part of the city, toward the Blaues Wunder (the colloquial name of the historic Elbe bridge Loschwitzer Brücke ), has a lower density of restaurants than Neustadt, and they tend to also serve as cafés, and the food is generally tasty and cheap.

Budget [ edit ]

Historic centre (altstadt) [ edit ].

• 51.051068 13.737211 1 Curry am Schloss , Schloßstraße 1 . Tiny bar/restaurant. Claims to have "best currywurst" in Dresden. Also sells breaded cauliflower. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.041224 13.733549 2 Good Friends , Wiener Platz 10 . Small Asian fast food restaurant ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.050981 13.734792 3 Curry24 , Wilsdruffer Str. 24 . Delicious fries, delicious curry sausage, friendly service and with a pleasant Dresden dialect. Also great for Frankfurter and Krakauer sausages. Plus Saxon charm. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.044601 13.737923 4 Center Döner , St. Petersburger Straße 20 . Doner kebab, staff, seating... all great. Nice, suitable atmosphere. The Dürüm is a dream. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.041552 13.734623 5 Vita Life Soup & Sushi , Prager Str. 2A . Try traditional Vietnamese pho. Good, freshly prepared food. Simply authentic. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.050809 13.736245 6 Tokyo Kaiten Sushi , Wilsdruffer Str. 20 . All you can eat for one hour. Dishes travel past most tables on conveyor belts, allowing you to take what you want. Tasty and varied. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.0498 13.73984 7 Sushi Lounge , Wilsdruffer Str. 17 . great quality sushi; Japanese-style murals on the walls. ( updated Mar 2023 )

Neustadt [ edit ]

• 51.066527 13.753977 8 Kantine No.2 , Görlitzer Str . The best burgers in the Neustadt. Just grab one and eat at the corner where all the people sitting and have beer from the Späti (like an off-licence with longer opening hours). ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.06575 13.75574 9 Curry & Co. , Louißenstraße 64 . Serves currywurst, a Berlin invention, with several flavours of sauce. Best fries in the city. Also has vegan wursts and ice cream. There is also one in Schillerplatz. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.063728 13.748639 10 Pizza 5 , Alaunstraße 4 ( from Albertplatz head towards äußere Neustadt ), ☏ +49 162 4603991 . Daily from 11:00 . At the "entrance" of Neustadt, this pizza place may not look like much, but the pies (30 cm) are good value for the money. Also try the "Pizzabrötchen", small rolls filled with various ingredients. They offer call for pickup but no delivery. 8 Pizzabrötchen for €3.99, every pizza €4.50 (Apr 2016) . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.072701 13.746762 11 Pizzastube , Hechtstr. 12 . Best pizza at the edge of the Neustadt. Some people say it's actually in the Hecht district, but you can walk there and it's worth it! ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.067426 13.750129 12 Keké Kumpir , Louisenstr. 21 . Kumpir is a kind of Turkish baked potato ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.06605 13.75059 13 Babos , Katharinenstraße 20 , ☏ +49 351 - 804 06 66 . 09:00-16:00 (until 05:00 Saturday and Sunday mornings) . A kebab place with a good reputation. They have several outlets throughout town. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.06613 13.75368 14 Dürüm Kebap Haus , ☏ +49 351 - 80 26 279 . Reputed as one of the best kebab joints in town. This is the original site of the reputed Dürum Kebap Haus, now also found in Prager-Straße 32 (Prager Zeile) in the Altstadt. ( updated Sep 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

You may want to choose one of the various restaurants on the Brühlsche Terrasse adjacent to the river Elbe - especially in summer time this a wonderful place to be. The view and the drinks are very pleasant. Alternatively, you may choose to go to Münzgasse , lying directly beside the Frauenkirche. The little street is full of restaurants, from glamorous and expensive to the cheaper ones.

• 51.05212 13.74257 15 Grand Café & Restaurant Coselpalais , An der Frauenkirche 12 , ☏ +49 351 496 24 44 . Open daily 10:00-00:00 . An expensive café and restaurant on the backside of the Frauenkirche. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.0544 13.7372 16 Italienisches Dörfchen , Theaterplatz 3 , ☏ +49 351 498160 . One of the most stylish places in town - the baroque pavilion features various restaurants decorated with old paintings and furniture. The prices are higher than elsewhere, but still affordable. Go for the cakes! ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.0486 13.7408 17 Mamma Mia , Kreuzstraße 1-3 ( Pirnaische Platz or Altmarkt tram stops ). Italian food with locally made pasta. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.049767 13.736771 18 Hans im Glück , Altmarkt 24 ( Altmarkt tram stop ). Fast casual burgers in all kinds of variations. A Germany-wide franchise. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• Augustiner an der Frauenkirche , An der Frauenkirche 16/17 , ☏ +49 351 49776650 . German (Bavarian and Saxon) food. The beer is from famous brewery in Munich and is especially good. €10-15/person .  
• 51.04907 13.73922 19 LadenCafé aha , Kreuzstraße 7 , ☏ +49 351 496-0673 . Daily 10:00-24:00 . Hearty vegetarian and vegan food in a family-friendly and comfortable environment, also serves a wide variety of free trade teas and coffees. €10-15/person .  
• 51.0546 13.72748 20 Zum Schießhaus , Am Schießhaus 19 , ☏ +49 351 4845990 . M-Sa 11:00-23:45, Su 11:00-23:15 . This farmhouse-restaurant is not so easy to find. It lies behind the "Herzogin Garten" (which is a ruin) and behind the opera-house. The large Biergarden is a very relaxing place, has good food and good prices and is very pleasant. Mains around €15 .  
• 51.0544 13.7262 21 Brennessel , Schützengasse 18 , ☏ +49 351 4943319 . Daily 11:00-24:00 . Restaurant, offering many vegetarian dishes, and pub. Mains €15 .  

• 51.06142 13.741738 22 Ausonia , Königstraße 9 ( Tram 9: Dresden Palaisplatz, Tram 3,7,8: Dresden Albertplatz ), ☏ +49 351 8033123 , [email protected] . Very good Italian restaurant right in the middle of the Königstraße baroque quarter. Also known for its colourful porcelain figurines. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.06799 13.77831 24 Brauhaus am Waldschlößchen , Am Brauhaus 8b . Traditional German cuisine with a taste of beer brewed on site. Located on a hill with a splendid view over Elbe riverside from the garden. The food is recommended if you want to experience what German cuisine should taste like. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.06436 13.75495 25 Raskolnikoff , Böhmische Straße 34 ( Close to the Lutherkirche. ). Once a very alternative restaurant, it now features sand on the floors, a red lamp in front of the door and a very nice garden with a fountain. In summer it is difficult to get in. Food and prices are good. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.05974 13.75482 26 Rosengarten , Carusufer 12 ( on the north bank of the Elbe at the edge of the park just east of Albertbrücke ). A café bordering one of the public rose gardens of Dresden's riverside park, with plenty of outside seating in nice weather. The food is acceptable, but nothing special. The view is gorgeous. Worth a stop for a hot chocolate or an ice cream. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.075028 13.750111 27 Sankt Pauli , Tannenstraße 56 ( S-Bahn S1, Tram 7: Dresden Bischofsplatz ), ☏ +49 351 2751482 , [email protected] . Popular bar, café and restaurant right at the heart of the trendy Hechtviertel district with Sunday brunch and a large outdoor area. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.06586 13.75051 28 Vecchia Napoli , Alaunstraße 33 , ☏ +49 351 8029055 . A good Italian restaurant, with a wood fired pizza oven. You can get a pizza or pasta, or a full multicourse meal. Generally very busy, and the food is excellent. €15-40 .  
• 51.05855 13.74121 29 Watzke Brauereiausschank am Goldenen Reiter , Hauptstraße 1 , ☏ +49 351-8106820 . One of their three locations in Dresden and is a great place to go to taste Saxon cuisine. Their own-brew beer is fantastic. €10-15/person .  
• 51.063839 13.752135 30 Hot Shüzzle ( Thai Restaurant Dresden Hot Shüzzle ), Rothenburger Straße 9 ( from Albertplatz go toward Alaunstraße, first street right to Rothenburger Straße right again ). M-Sa 11:00-17:00 . Real Thai street food. With a chef from Thailand, Hot Shüzzle has the most authentic Thai food in Dresden. €5-7 .  
• 51.06619 13.75165 31 Die Scheune , Alaunstraße 36/40 . "The barn" is a restaurant with a large beer garden in an alternative style - Don't be shocked by the punks in front. On warm summer nights you will have trouble finding a free spot. Good prices. Serves Indian food. Lots of concerts and events.  

Eastern Dresden [ edit ]

• 51.053399 13.811653 32 Elbegarten Demnitz , Friedrich-Wieck-Straße 18 , ☏ +49 351 2106443 , [email protected] . Large beer garden right south of the Blaues Wunder bridge with a fantastic view over the Elbe river and regular live music events. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.07324 13.79464 33 Historisches Fischhaus , Fischhausstraße 14 ( on the road into the Albertpark to the northeast of the city and 800 m from the B6 ), ☏ +49 351 899100 . M-F 11:30-24:00, Sa 11:00-24:00, Su 11:00-23:00 . As one of the oldest inns in Dresden, its history can be traced back to 1573 - long enough for the road to be named after it. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.05251 13.80872 34 SchillerGarten , Schillerplatz 9 , ☏ +49 351 811990 . Reservations recommended. Yes, all the tour buses pull up here, but that doesn't stop the locals from heading to SchillerGarten either. A good selection of German cuisines, including an excellent schnitzel. In the summer, there is a huge biergarten along the Elbe and nice views of the Blaues Wunder . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.0241 13.8403 35 Volkshaus Laubegast , Laubegaster Ufer 22 (   4   to the end station Laubegast and walk towards the Elbe River ), ☏ +49 351 2509377 . A simple local eatery and café right on the river. The food tends to be stereotypically German (schnitzel, sausages, and the like) and is generally good. Their fried potatoes are excellent, though their green vegetables are overcooked. Has a nice view of the Elbe and outside seating. €10-20 (Jan 2017) . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.05272 13.80813 36 Cafe Toscana , Schillerplatz 7 ( in the Blasewitz quarter, right by the Blaues Wunder bridge ), ☏ +49 351 310-0744 . Daily . A pleasant café with a pastry shop ( Konditorei ) and a restaurant. The cakes are gorgeous and will help you understand why the café is famous. The décor is fairly new, given the very long history of the place (it was named after Louise von Toscana, the run-away princess who divorced the King of Saxony). The terrace is beautiful and overlooks the river and the famous "Blaue Wunder" bridge. Generally it's full of locals on Saturday afternoons who come to chat. €8-20 .  

Splurge [ edit ]

• 51.05301 13.80839 37 Villa Marie , Fährgässchen 1 ( just below the Blaues Wunder on the west side ), ☏ +49 351 315 440 . Excellent food, excellent ambiance. Italian food done really well. Reservations strongly recommended. Try to get it on the first floor with its views of the Elbe and the Blaues Wunder, or out on their garden. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 51.08088 13.760738 38 Elements , Königsbrücker Straße 96, Haus 25-26 , ☏ +49 351 27 21 696 , [email protected] . Located in a former industrial area in the east of Dresden, this restaurant has been awarded a Michelin guide star. ( updated Sep 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

Altstadt [ edit ].

The area around the Frauenkirche and Dresden Castle is very popular with tourists. Some fine restaurants are located there. The Weiße Gasse is just around the corner of the Altmarkt near the shopping centre and the historical town. A good alternative if you do not want to go to the Neustadt.

• Bar Peanuts , Brühlsche Terrasse , ☏ +49 351 8642838 . Small, cozy bar is located at the corner of the Hilton overlooking the Elbe. Peanut shells are scattered on the floor and as the name suggests, peanuts are the central theme. Cocktails and beer are the main draws here, along with the spectacular view.  
• 51.05244 13.74518 1 Bärenzwinger , Brühlscher Garten 1 , ☏ +49 351-495-1409 . This popular student club is a good choice for its full schedule of nightly activities, including readings, live music, and discussions.  
• 51.047262 13.708558 2 Gisela Club , Löbtauer Straße 80 ( Tram 7, Wernerstraße ), ☏ +49 351 8020066 , [email protected] . 22:00 . Homely club in the Löbtau district with a living-room-atmosphere, three floors and an outdoor area. Various events from indie to house music.  
• 51.051883 13.736312 4 Paulaner's , Am Taschenberg 3 , ☏ +49 351 4960174 , [email protected] . Popular beer hall sells a selection of well-brewed local and regional favorites. A full menu is offered, and outside seating is available.  
• 51.05571 13.72062 5 Riesa efau , Adlergasse 14 , ☏ +49 351-866-0222 , fax : +49 351-866-0211 . The pub is managed by a local events group and features a wide selection of drinks along with a regular slate of activities and entertainment. Good menu of regional beers and mixed drinks, as well as non-alcoholic drinks and coffees. Live music is frequently featured.  

The Neustadt is a very popular destination, especially for younger people. It has a high number of bars and clubs, with many different styles. Especially the Äußere Neustadt neighborhood north of Albertplatz with its centre Alaunstraße is filled with places to go, but also the Alter Schlachthof and the Hechtviertel neighborhood in the Leipziger Vorstadt district and the Industriegelände in the very north offer several venues.

• 51.064479 13.744541 7 Altes Wettbüro , Antonstraße 8 ( S-Bahn: Dresden-Neustadt station, Tram 6,11: "Dresden Albertplatz" ), ☏ +49 351 6588983 , [email protected] . Bar-club and restaurant in a former casino fitted with vintage furniture and radios. Offers good meals, live DJs, dance parties and concerts.  
• 51.06663 13.75407 8 Blue Note , Görlitzer Straße 2b , ☏ +49 351 8014275 . This is the Dresden Jazz point. In the web page you may find the schedule of concerts. There is always very good music. This is a place to sit and enjoy good music. The scotch bar has very good drinks to enjoy during the concert.  
• 51.06596 13.75574 9 Blumenau , Louisenstraße 67 , ☏ +49 351 8026502 . This popular nightspot is considered one of the best in the city for its ambience, friendly service, and selection of drinks.  
• 51.06969 13.75502 10 Café 100 , Alaunstraße 100 , ☏ +49 351-801-7729 . This full-service nightspot features a café, wine bar, and pub.  
• 51.070741 13.750347 11 Café Europa , Königsbrücker Straße 68 , ☏ +49 351-389-923 . This pleasant café and bar is a great choice for a pre-dinner cocktail or late-night snack. The café closes only one hour a day, so stop by any time. In addition to great drinks, the menu also features a full breakfast menu, which young locals and visitors appreciate after a late night on the town. ( updated Oct 2016 )
• 51.084206 13.767108 12 Club Paula , Meschwitzstraße 9 (   S2   Dresden Industriegelände ), ☏ +49 351 2630864 , [email protected] . 12:00 . Fancy minimalistic techno club in a decommissioned electrical substation with a high-class international DJ lineup.  
• 51.070105 13.731652 13 Club Puschkin , Leipziger Str. 12 ( Tram 4,9: Dresden Alter Schlachthof ), ☏ +49 172 7956789 , [email protected] . 23:00 . Concert venue in the Leipziger Vorstadt district, hosting mostly German bands.  
• 51.068088 13.72865 14 Citybeach Dresden , Leipziger Str. 31 ( Tram 4,9: Dresden Alter Schlachthof ), [email protected] . Beach bar with electronic music, a nice view over the Elbe river, and the option to play beach volleyball.  
• 51.066965 13.749554 15 Downtown , Katharinenstraße 11-13 . The most popular club in the Neustadt. They play mostly mainstream/top 40/1980s music. If this place isn't your scene, you can always go upstairs to Groove Station.  
• 51.066998 13.74959 16 Groove Station , Katharinenstraße 11-13 . Sits on top of Downtown and has more alternative music. They often have live bands.  
• 51.06495 13.7532 17 Hebeda's , Rothenburger Str. 30 . This pub is quite popular with locals, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. The old East German furniture gives it a cozy and retro feel. Beer is cheap and there's a small dance floor for those who feel like dancing. ( updated Oct 2016 )
• 51.06664 13.75171 18 Katy's Garage , Alaunstraße 48 . If you're walking around Neustadt, you can't miss the beer garden at Katy's Garage. It's a great place to have a drink when it's warm outside. When the beer garden closes at around 22:00, you can make your way into their night club, which consists mostly of rock music.  
• 51.068835 13.732421 19 Klub NEU , Gothaer Straße 12 (   9   Alter Schlachthof ), ☏ +49 351 30710065 , [email protected] . 23:00 . Techno club in an old slaughterhouse in the Leipziger Vorstadt district.  
• 51.06677 13.75391 20 Lebowski-Bar , Görlitzer Str. 5 . A tiny bar themed after the movie The Big Lebowski . Several TVs show it on a constant loop (with subtitles and muted sound). ( updated Oct 2016 )
• 51.0668 13.75279 21 Louisengarten , Louisenstraße 43 . Located a few meters from Katy's Garage, this beer garden is only open when it's warm outside. You can come here and relax with a Lenin's Hanf, a delicious beer brewed in the Neustadt.  
• Mona Lisa (   13   Görlitzer Straße ), ☏ +49 351-803-3151 . This city centre nightspot features a Mexican theme and a full menu, along with plenty of beers and well-mixed drinks.  
• 51.084688 13.764732 22 objekt klein a , Meschwitzstraße 9 (   S2   Dresden Industriegelände ), [email protected] . 12:00 . Industrial-style techno club in the northern industrial area of Dresden.  
• 51.07028 13.74928 23 Ost-Pol , Königsbrücker Straße 47 . Ost-Pol (translation: East-Pole) is a bar with a retro East German feel to it. They often have live bands, but the place is still good to go for a beer when there's no live music. The beer is pretty cheap, and is one of the few places with Pilsner Urquell on tap. There might be a cover charge on some nights, though. ( updated Oct 2016 )
• 51.06654 13.75346 24 Pinta Bar , Louisenstraße 49 . Pinta specializes in cocktails. It is very popular on Friday and Saturday nights. When the place is busy, the service is slow.  
• 51.06699 13.75002 25 Planwirtschaft , Louisenstraße 20 , ☏ +49 351-801-3187 . This quaint bar and restaurant is in a refurbished wine cellar. The drinks menu is extensive and served by energetic staff.  
• 51.088575 13.76574 26 Sektor Evolution , An der Eisenbahn 2 – Industriegelände, 01099 Dresden . Club in the northern industrial area of Dresden, focusing on techno, house and psytrance parties, but also staging art and theater events. Many guests use drugs.  
• 51.06654 13.753721 27 Studiobar , Görlitzer Str. 1 . The best cocktails in town are available here. Located on the 2nd floor, it is a little bit hard to find. From the entrance, go into the main floor bar and straight to the back. There is a staircase that leads up to the second floor. Smoking is allowed here.  
• 51.064258 13.7553 28 Sidedoor , Böhmische Str. 38 , [email protected] . Good selection of beers and the tastiest Long Islands you've had since college.  
• 51.089887 13.770449 29 Tante-JU , An der Schleife 1 (   S2   Dresden Industriegelände ), ☏ +49 351 30710065 , [email protected] . 19:00 . Popular live music club in an old warehouse furnished with airline seats in Dresden's northern industrial area.  
• 51.068061 13.75263 30 Wohnzimmer Dresden ( "living room" ), Jordanstraße 27 ( Tram 3,6,11: Albertplatz, Tram 7,8: Louisenstraße ), ☏ +49 351 2522555 , [email protected] . This cozy retro café and bar right at Alaunstraße, which is fitted out with vintage furniture, offers cocktails and cake and on Sundays from 17:00 live concerts from indie to electronica.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Dresden charges a lodging tax ( Beherbergungssteuer ), which anyone offering accommodation has to collect from their guests. Often the tax is not listed on booking websites. The charge depends on the cost of the room and is charged per night. It is roughly 6.67%. Detailed information in English here . Anyone under 18 or who fills out this declaration stating they are in the city on a business trip does not have to pay the tax.

Since Dresden regained its status as a popular tourist destination, it has also developed a large accommodation base for every taste and budget. There are many new and refurbished properties, and competition is fierce due to slight overcapacity resulting from overly optimistic development. It pays off to research well for good offers even at normally expensive hotels, especially off-season.

When selecting your accommodation, keep in mind that Dresden is actually a very large city by area. Most attractions are all within a very small distance in the city centre on both banks of the Elbe. However, if you choose to base yourself outside the centre, you may find yourself far away from points of interest and with very little to do in the area.

For staying at a youth hostel (IYHF): If you are not a member of DJH or your own country's youth hostel association, you need a €3.50 welcome stamp for each night in a hostel.

in the city center: [ edit ]

• 51.046847 13.745791 1 cityherberge , Lingnerallee 3 , ☏ +49 351 4859900 . The only hostel in Dresden's old town. Also has regular hotel rooms with private bath, breakfast included. Clean and good for families or couples young or old.  
• 51.05048 13.73479 2 ibis Budget Dresden City ( formerly ETAP hotel ), Wilsdruffer Straße 25 , ☏ +49 351 83 393 820 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . This ibis Budget is in the Altmarkt-Galerie shopping centre. It is appointed according to the brand's newest standards, with rooms featuring an extra third bunk bed available. Rooms are very basic, with the shower accessible directly from the room and the sink/vanity right in the room. €43 .  

near the city center: [ edit ]

• 51.04881 13.72416 3 Jugendgästehaus Dresden , Maternistr. 22 ( next to "World Trade Center" - train-stop "Freiberger Straße ), ☏ +49 351-492620 , [email protected] . A youth hostel ( IYHF ). A few minutes by foot from the historic city centre. This large 480 bed hostel is in a former GDR boarding school. The hostel has small 2 & 4 bed bedrooms. Room with breakfast from €26 for those under 26, older guests pay €34 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 51.034067 13.725897 4 Rudi Arndt , Hübnerstr. 11 , ☏ +49 351-4710667 . A youth hostel ( IYHF ). 900 m from the Hauptbahnhof in the quiet Swiss Quarter. Includes two dining rooms, two seminar rooms, a club room, terrace and cellar bar. From €24.50 (April 2022) .  
• 51.036532 13.739564 5 A&O Hostel , Strehlener Str. 10 , ☏ +49 351 469271-5900 . Near the main train station, so it is very easy to get there and the prices are usually attractive. The rooms aren't equipped that well. No kitchen. Free and easy internet access. 1 bed in a 6-bunk room €19-26 (April 2022), if booked far in advance from €13 (April 2022) .  

in Dresden Neustadt: [ edit ]

• 51.065219 13.744375 6 Kangaroo Stop Hostel , Erna-Berger-Str. 8-10 01097 Dresden , ☏ +49 351 314 34 55 , [email protected] . Very good and clean hostel in the Neustadt district within a few minutes walking distance of the Dresden Neustadt train station. A kitchen, hammock, bar, lawn and computers are situated are at this hostel. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 51.065725 13.756699 7 Mondpalast , Louisenstraße 77 , ☏ +49 351 5634050 . Very clean and bright rooms- from 10 bed dorm rooms up to ensuite doubles with balcony and TV. Lounge, bar, and a self-service kitchen. ( updated May 2022 )
• 51.068766 13.755677 8 Lollis Homestay , Görlitzer Str. 34 , ☏ +49 351 8108458 . Member of the I-hostels network . This homey hostel offers a well-equipped kitchen, nice rooms, and free (old) bike rental. The bikes come in handy because it's in the north area of the Neustadt. On their website and on Hostelworld it's 2 nights minimum, on booking.com it can be booked from 1 night. ( updated May 2022 )

in the outskirts: [ edit ]

• 51.095462 13.711328 9 Ferienwohnung im Wasserwerk Trachau , Aachener Straße 31 , ☏ +49 351-8475445 . The apartment is suitable for up to three adults or a family with two children. Bus stop right in front of the house. Safe parking available. Nice apartment with lovely garden. €55 (May 2022)  

• 51.05298 13.74935 10 Hotel Am Terrassenufer Dresden , Terrassenufer 12 . Near the Elbe and historic centre with outstanding view.  
• 51.05701 13.72781 11 Art'otel Dresden by Park Plaza , Ostra-Allee 33 . Contemporary art gallery hotel with restaurant and bar as well as a healthclub and free Wi-Fi access. €63 .  
• 51.047339 13.749665 12 Dorint Hotel Dresden , Grunaer Straße 14 , ☏ +49 351 49150 , [email protected] . 244 rooms, huge wellness area, 14 conference rooms from €77 per room/night .  
• 51.04759 13.73819 13 Premier Inn Dresden City Zentrum , Dr-Kuelz Ring 15a . €65 .  
• 51.04408 13.73462 14 Ibis Dresden Zentrum , Prager Straße , ☏ +49 351 4856-2000 , [email protected] . One hotel in two buildungs on Prager Straße, near the Hauptbahnhof. In addition to the standard rooms, they offer studios for up to three people and apartments for up to four people. €59 .  
• 51.04183 13.73132 15 InterCityHotel , Wiener Platz 8 . True to its name, the InterCityHotel faces the Hauptbahnhof. €120 .  
• 51.05737 13.73192 16 Maritim Hotel & International Congress Center Dresden , Devrienstraße 10-12 . €85 .  
• 51.05115 13.73201 17 Motel One Dresden an Zwinger , Postplatz 5 , ☏ +49 351 438380 . The more expensive Motel One in Dresden is on the edge of Innere Altstadt, and indeed reasonably close to the Zwinger, even if you won't see it from most rooms. Like every other Motel One, it features modern design and a very predictable, standardized experience. €69 per night/room, breakfast buffet €7.50 .  
• 51.044803 13.735429 18 [https: https://www.dresdenzentrumhotel.com/ Dresden Zentrum Hotel ], Prager Strasse 13 , ☏ +49 351 31261760 , [email protected]​ . ~€70 per night .  

Neustadt and other districts [ edit ]

• 51.07775 13.75094 19 Courtyard by Marriott Dresden , Stauffenbergallee 25a , ☏ +49 351 81510 . Halfway between the airport and the old town, this hotel is a considerable distance from most points of interest.  
• 51.06254 13.68575 20 Amedia Hotel Dresden Elbpromenade , Hamburger Straße 64/68 , ☏ +49 351 42520 , fax : +49 351 4252420 . On the outskirts of Dresden, right on the river Elbe. It has 103 rooms with Wi-Fi access, which is also available in the public areas. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 51.06222 13.73838 21 Motel One Dresden Palaisplatz , Palaisplatz 1 . The other Motel One is in the Neustadt, on the Palaisplatz right beside the Japanese Palace the hotel's name refers to. For €10 less, you get pretty much the same experience, a longer walk or a tram ride to the Altstadt, but a more convenient location in terms of rail travel, as the Neustadt station is only a short walk away. €69 per night/room, breakfast buffet €7.50 .  
• 51.07427 13.73866 22 NH Dresden , Hansastraße 43 . The other NH in Dresden (not to be mistaken with the newer one in Altstadt, which is an "NH Collection" hotel) is a modern business hotel, situated in Neustadt at the Hansastraße, a thoroughfare connecting the city with the A4 motorway. 269 renovated rooms are available. €50 .  
• 51.01281 13.79143 23 AZIMUT Hotel Dresden , Huelssestraße 1 , ☏ +49 351 795899 , [email protected] . In a remote southern district of Reick, this inexpensive hotel from the Russian chain expanding rapidly in Germany is hard to miss thanks to its bright red façade. From about €70 (May 2022) .  
• 51.06004 13.75175 24 Park Inn by Radisson Dresden , Melanchtonstraße 2 . In a business district of Neustadt, shares the office block with some institutions and company offices.  
• 51.00818 13.76811 25 Wyndham Garden Dresden , Wilhelm-Franke-Straße 90 . On the southeastern outskirts of Dresden.  
• 51.02694 13.83011 26 Ramada Resident Hotel Dresden , Brünner Straße 11 . In the southeastern suburban district of Laubegast, halfway between Loschwitz and Pillnitz but on the eastern bank of the river.  

The most luxurious accommodation in Dresden is mostly within the Innere Altstadt area, offering views over and close to the famous historic landmarks. A wide choice between modern design or faux historic charm awaits, but make no mistake: you will need to pay top dollar to stay in the old town - the sections above lists some cheaper hotels in lower price that are not that much farther away.

• 51.05261 13.74062 27 Hilton Dresden ( formerly Interhotel Dresdner Hof ), An der Frauenkirche 5 , ☏ +49 351 86420 , fax : +49 351 8642725 . Next to the Frauenkirche. Try to get a room with a view of the Elbe river. €98 .  
• 51.05189 13.74316 28 Innside by Melia Dresden , Salzgasse 4 . The newest upmarket hotel in Dresden, all about modern design, with views of surrounding historic buildings. €90 .  
• 51.05165 13.7426 29 Luxushotel Suitess , An der Frauenkirche , ☏ +49 351 417270 , fax : +49 351-41727-160 . A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Experience the gourmet terrace with its view of the dome of Frauenkirche .  
• 51.04879 13.73832 30 NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt , An der Kreuzkirche 2 , ☏ +49 351 501550 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . The new NH opened in 2010, completing the southern façade of the Altmarkt. Rooms feature large windows with views of the Altmarkt and Kulturpalast, while others face the Kreuzkirche across a narrow street. Some of the rooms in the top floor have sloping roofs and small dormer windows, so make sure you know which type of room you are booking. €75 .  
• 51.05188 13.73562 31 Taschenbergpalais Kempinski , Taschenberg 3 , ☏ +49 351 49120 , fax : +49 351 491-2812 . The Baroque Taschenberg Palace from the early 18th century was reconstructed as a luxury hotel of the Kempinski chain in 1995 after being almost completely destroyed in 1945. At its launch, it was the first five-star hotel in Saxony. Monarchs, heads of state and international celebrities have stayed here during their visits to Dresden and even the Bilderberg Conference was once held in it. €119 .  
• 51.0423 13.73529 33 Pullman Dresden Newa ( formerly Mercure Dresden Newa, Interhotel Newa ), Prager Straße 2c , ☏ +49 351 48140 , [email protected] . The former Mercure was upgraded to a Pullman in name mostly, as there's not much of a difference (you don't even get coffee/tea facilities in rooms). The property is in a prime location right at the Prager Straße and 300 m from the railway station and rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows with views of either (depending on side), as well as reasonably modern and upmarket fixtures and furniture. The hotel often undercuts its upmarket competition in the Altstadt in room rates, but makes up for it by charging €12.50 a day for Wi-Fi. Bikes for rent at €10 a day, an electric Renault Twizzy starting at €20 per hour. Room rates start at €75 .  
• 51.04857 13.74184 34 Gewandhaus Hotel ( formerly Radisson Blu ), Ringstraße 1 , ☏ +49 351 49490 . The baroque 18th-century Gewandhaus ( cloth hall ) was rebuilt in late 1960s as a hotel. The interior design, fixtures and furniture echo the building's history. Marketed as part of the Autograph (=Marriott) chain since 2015. €84 .  
• 51.05076 13.74127 35 Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe , Neumarkt 9 . Part of a German upmarket chain, the hotel is in a reconstructed historic building (which was also previously a hotel). The interiors are decorated in various shades of beige and brown. The most expensive rooms are on the floors in the sloping roof, meaning that not all the surface area can actually be used. €87 .  
• 51.05203 13.73767 36 Hyperion Hotel Dresden am Schloss ( formerly Swissôtel ), Schlossstraße 16 , ☏ +49 351 501200 , [email protected] . The Hyperion is indeed "am Schloss" , facing the Residenzschloss on the one side and the Kulturpalast (or rather the empty plot of land in front of it) on the other. Inside, you will find a mixture of modern design, historic references and folk motifs, all in a white/beige/red/green theme. The cheapest rooms are on the top floors, with sloping roofs and dormer windows. €90-190 .  
• 51.05844 13.73896 37 Bilderberg Bellevue Dresden , Große Meißner Straße 15 . The only luxury hotel in Dresden on the "other" side of the river (in Neustadt), right at the riverbank, next to the Japanisches Palais . Opened in the 1980s as a part of the East German state-owned chain Interhotel , it was privatized in the 1990s. While the hotel uses photos of the reconstructed baroque building in its marketing, most of the rooms are in the much less impressive expansive wings. The "belle vue" the hotel name alludes to is the view of the Innere Altstadt, that some rooms providing sweeping vistas of, while the others offer views the much less picturesque Hotel Maritim on the other side of the river and the rooms with "Neustadt view" face communist-era blocks across the busy Große Meißner Straße. from €80 . ( updated Dec 2021 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Dresden is a safe place to be, just like the rest of Germany. Avoid visiting the Alaunpark in the night. Be careful in the Neustadt after midnight; don't use small dark streets.

Media reports will point out that extreme right and extreme left parties are relatively popular; however, these are very small groups (a few hundred people) who have little to no effect on everyday life for most people. Although it is difficult to pinpoint the exact places where the right-wing extremists of Dresden live the relatively poor high-rise ("Plattenbau") neighborhoods of Gorbitz and Prohlis have a reputation of being inhabited by more Nazis than other parts of town.

Soccer matches of the local club Dynamo Dresden take place about every second weekend, but not during summer holidays. The supporters of Dynamo Dresden soccer club have a particularly bad reputation, but clashes with the police or other rival supporters are mainly a thing of the past. 99% of the fans are peaceful, sports-loving people. However don't be surprised to see large police forces in anti-riot equipment (think robocop) around the main station and the stadium during so called "Risiko-Spiele" (roughly: high risk games). The (all standing) "K-Block" of Dynamo's stadium has a reputation for having the most hard-core fans and unfortunately racial slurs and homophobic utterances are heard here from time to time, even though most Dynamo fans don't subscribe to either xenophobia or homophobia. If you are (visibly) part of an ethnic or sexual minority and especially if you don't wear Dynamo fan-gear try going to another block rather than this one.

Neo-Nazis are known to congregate in Dresden once or twice a year, most prominently on or around 13 February , when demonstrations are staged by right-wing extremists to recall the bombings of Dresden during the Second World War. The few hundred Neo-Nazis are usually condemned by thousands of peaceful anti-war demonstrators and there is a huge police attendance. There have been instances of violent acts during those demonstrations and all sides (police, right wing demonstrators and left wing "Antifa") have been variously blamed. While most demonstrators are peaceful and the police has an indeed very hard job to do, the security as well as the transport situation during large Nazi-demonstrations is far from normal. The whole issue is very controversial in Dresden as well as on a federal level in Germany and the fine points are best not discussed further here.

Connect [ edit ]

The local telephone code is 0351 .

Here is a map with free Wi-Fi (search for "Public Wi-Fi Spots" and click "show on map" in the "Themes" section).

Cope [ edit ]

Medical [ edit ].

• Universitätsklinikum , Fetscherstraße 74 , ☏ +49 351 458-2036 . If you need medical attention. It's inexpensive (compared to others in the city), easy to get to (Augsburger Str. stop from the 12 or 6 tram line) and the doctors are well-trained and speak good English. EU residents and residents of Iceland, Lichtenstein, Switzerland and Norway are strongly advised to get an EHIC before travelling. Travel insurance is also a good idea.  

Go next [ edit ]

For departing from the central bus station at the main train station: There are the bus platforms 1 and 2. And at another area are the platforms 5, 6 and 7. For an international ride it's the latter. For a national ride check beforehand.

• Radebeul (8 km northwest) is a city west of Dresden which includes the Karl May Museum (dedicated to the famous writer) and its vineyards
• Moritzburg (14 km northwest) has a beautiful castle that was once used when the kings went hunting. Reachable by a charming historic narrow gauge railway from Radebeul or (more mundanely but faster) by bus from Dresden Neustadt station.
• Radeberg (16 km northeast) is a small town a short S-Bahn ride away from Dresden. The Radeberger Brewery [dead link] offers tours throughout the day for €14, including tasting at the end. Phone +49 352 845-4880.
• Meissen (25 km northwest) has a medieval cathedral and castle and home to the first European porcelain factory. Residence of the Saxon dukes and electors before they moved to Dresden.
• Glashütte (30 km south) is the centre of east German watch manufacturing, with various watch factories and a nice watch museum . This town is about 1h from Dresden by train, and part of the journey is beautiful, following a river through the mountains
• Königstein (40 km southeast) has one of the largest and best preserved late medieval fortresses in Europe. The Königstein fortress is situated about 30 km from Dresden and can be reached by almost all means of transport. A trip on the river Elbe in one of the historic paddle-steamers of the "Sächsische Dampfschifffahrt" is also highly recommended
• Bautzen (60 km northeast), a beautiful old city in the east (c. 45 min with car by Autobahn and 1h by train)
• Leipzig (110 km northwest), an hour away by ICE or intercity train
• Prague (145 km southeast) is about two hours away (two-hourly Eurocity train connection, frequent intercity buses)

• Previous Destinations of the month
• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Airport listing
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default size
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Articles with dead external links
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Guide cities
• Guide articles
• City articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Saxon Elbland
• All destination articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

A Complete Travel Guide to Dresden: 21 Best Things To Do & See

Florence of the elbe.

Dresden may not be the first city you think of when you’re considering a getaway in Germany , but in our humble opinion, it would be a shame to overlook it.

Dresden is the capital of the state of Saxony and the city lies in the old East Germany two or three hours south of Berlin – close to the border of the Czech Republic and not far from Poland, either.

Therefore, it’s an obvious city to visit if you’re on a road trip in eastern Germany or on your way south by car from for example Denmark or Sweden .

Dresden, which was once Germany’s cultural centre , was more or less completely destroyed by bombings at the end of World War II, but today the city has risen from the ashes.

Located on the banks of the river Elbe , Dresden is a beautiful German city packed with amazing museums, impressive architecture and lots of history.

The city is even referred to as “Florence of the Elbe” and although we honestly don’t think Dresden looks or feels that much like Florence, the incredible Baroque buildings are truly something to marvel at.

We spent three days in Dresden in the autumn of 2020 (including a day trip to the Saxon Switzerland National Park) and we think it’s one of the most beautiful German cities we’ve visited – and we’ve been to quite a few.

In this travel guide, we share the best things to do and see in Dresden, why you should visit, where to stay, how long to stay, when to visit, how to get around the city, our best travel tips and much more.

Where to stay in Dresden?

• Value for money: Hotel Indigo Dresden – Wettiner Platz (IHG Hotel) .
• Luxury: Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection .

Search for the best and cheapest hotels in Dresden here .

Table of contents

Why visit Dresden

How long to stay in dresden, 21 best things to do and see in dresden, where to stay in dresden, is it safe to visit dresden, how to get around dresden, how to get to dresden, when to visit dresden, our best tips for dresden, what to bring to dresden, minimise your impact.

Dresden is a relatively big German city but it’s fortunately small enough to experience the best things to do and see in a day or two, making the city particularly suitable for a weekend trip .

It’s also perfect for a stopover on a road trip through Germany (as we did in autumn 2020), or in combination with visiting the German capital of Berlin . The two cities are only 2 hours apart by train or 2-3 hours by car.

At the end of World War II , Dresden was bombed and large parts of the city were destroyed.

Since then, many of the buildings have been reconstructed so they look like they originally did before the bombings.

If you’re interested in history or culture , Dresden is just the city for you. There are so many interesting museums and unique buildings here.

And if you enjoy walking around pleasant streets among beautiful buildings while eating good food , we’re confident that you’ll enjoy both the old and new parts of Dresden.

How many days to stay in Dresden depends entirely on your personal pace and needs, of course.

We would recommend at least 1 full day to see the most famous sights in Dresden, and preferably 2 full days to go a little deeper and have time to visit some of the museums.

If you also want to experience the nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park (which we definitely argue that you should!), it’s a good idea to set aside an extra day for the day trip.

We spent 3 full days and 4 nights in Dresden which was absolutely perfect for us.

You can also stay longer if you want time to sleep in and stroll around at a leisurely pace with plenty of time to stop at cafés and see all the city has to offer.

2 or 3 days in Dresden will be optimal for most people.

Dresden City Card

If you expect to use the public transport system in Dresden a lot on your trip, it might be worth looking into getting the Dresden City Card ( adlink ).

The card provides unlimited use of public transport in Dresden for 1, 2 or 3 days.

Apart from that, you also receive discounts on museums, city tours and selected sights in Dresden (among other things).

See the prices and read more about the benefits of the Dresden City Card here ( adlink ).

And now for the best things to do and see in Dresden… Let’s get to it!

Advertisement

What to do in Dresden naturally depends on what you’re most interested in but in this travel guide, we’ve written about the most popular sights – and those we enjoyed seeing ourselves.

Most of the best things to do and see in Dresden can be found in the old part of town : Altstadt (literally “old town” in German).

This is where many of the museums and Baroque-style buildings are found.

The new town , Neustadt , is more modern and this is where you’ll find many of the best cafés and restaurants in Dresden.

But we’ll get to that later…

Are you ready to know more about what to do in Dresden?

Scroll down or click directly on the links below to go to the sight or experience you want to read more about.

• Altstadt – The old town
• Frauenkirche – Church of Our Lady
• Fürstenzug – The world’s largest porcelain mural
• Neumarkt – The new marketplace
• Zwinger – A Baroque complex with museums
• Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister – Impressive art collection
• Porzellansammlung – A huge porcelain collection
• Semperoper – Dresden Opera House
• Residenzschloss – Dresden Castle
• Katholische Hofkirche – Dresden Cathedral
• Altmarkt – The old marketplace
• Brühlsche Terrasse – Brühl’s Terrace
• Augustusbrücke – The Augustus Bridge
• Elbe – The river that runs through Dresden
• Hop-on hop-off bus tour in Dresden
• Neustadt – The new district
• Goldener Reiter – The Golden Knight
• Kunsthofpassage – Backyard art
• Japanisches Palais – The Japanese Palace
• Saxon Switzerland National Park – A unique natural area
• Schloss Pillnitz – Pillnitz Castle

1. Altstadt – The old town

Altstadt is Dresden’s old town and the area is rather small but very beautiful.

You must spend time here on your trip to Dresden. It’s really pleasant to stroll around Altstadt and admire the beautiful architecture.

Most of Dresden’s well-known buildings like the Frauenkirche, the Zwinger Complex and the Residenzschloss (Dresden Castle) can be found in the old town.

Pretty much everything is within walking distance here. It’s a good idea to wear proper shoes as most streets are cobblestoned .

2. Frauenkirche – Church of Our Lady

One of the city’s landmarks and one of the sights not to be missed in Dresden is the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) at Neumarkt.

The Evangelical Lutheran church was originally built in Baroque style in the 18th century but it was destroyed during the bombing of Dresden in World War II.

More than 3,800 stones were salvaged from the original church and used in the reconstruction from 1994 to 2005, along with new stones.

All of the black stones you can see today are the old, original stones.

For a unique view of Dresden, you can go up to the dome of the church (which is one of the largest church domes in Europe).

You have to climb quite a few stairs to get up there, so if you’re out of shape or afraid of heights, it might not be the best activity.

The price is 10 EUR (~ 10.75 USD)* for adults and you can see other prices and opening times on the church’s website here .

*Prices are last updated in summer 2023.

3. Fürstenzug – The world’s largest porcelain mural

An über cool and totally free attraction in Dresden is the super long mural of “Fürstenzug” (Procession of Princes).

Saxony’s rulers (kings, dukes, margraves and electors) are portrayed walking and riding horses in a long parade with their names written below.

The time period ranges from the 12th to the 20th century and it’s fun to notice how the style of clothing and weapons change over time.

The 102-metre-long mural is found on the outside of the Residenzschloss complex and it’s said to consist of a whopping 23,000 porcelain tiles – which makes the Fürstenzug the world’s largest porcelain mural .

4. Neumarkt – The new marketplace

It’s in the central place of Neumarkt you’ll find the Frauenkirche mentioned above (and the Fürstenzug mural right next to it).

The historic area was badly damaged by the bombings and accompanying fires during World War II but much has been done to rebuild the square and reconstruct the buildings.

The Neumarkt square is surrounded by pretty coloured houses and a statue of Martin Luther.

From the end of November and all throughout December, a cosy Christmas market is held on Neumarkt and at the Frauenkirche.

5. Zwinger – A Baroque complex with museums

In our opinion, the Zwinger is one of the most beautiful sights in Dresden – a magnificent Baroque complex with several museums, a lovely garden area and fountains.

It’s one of the most famous monuments in Dresden and a must-see!

The Zwinger was built at the beginning of the 18th century during the reign of Augustus the Strong and was very much inspired by Louis XIV’s opulent palace in Versailles (near Paris).

It’s free to walk around the courtyard and we really think it would be a shame not to.

However, you have to buy tickets in order to enter the museums.

The Zwinger ticket can be purchased here ( adlink ), granting access to all four museums:

• Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters Picture Gallery)
• Skulpturensammlung (Sculpture Collection)
• Porzellansammlung (Porcelain Collection)
• Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon (Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments)

Below we elaborate on the two most popular museums.

6. Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister – Impressive art collection

The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters Picture Gallery) is filled with 750 incredible works of art from the 15th to the 18th century.

The impressive collection of art contains, among other things, significant European works of art, including works by Raphael, Rembrandt and Vermeer.

The collection can be found in the Semper Gallery in the Zwinger gallery wing.

Buy a ticket for the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister and the other museums in the Zwinger here ( adlink ).

7. Porzellansammlung – A huge porcelain collection

If you love porcelain, you must visit Dresden’s porcelain collection, the Porzellansammlung, which is the world’s largest collection of porcelain with more than 20,000 pieces.

Here you’ll find porcelain vases, plates, cups, human figures, animals and many other fine works of art in all sizes.

The collection was started by Augustus the Strong who loved porcelain.

His early collection consisted of porcelain from the Ming and Qing dynasties, which he bought from China, and later he founded the first European porcelain factory in Meissen.

The museum itself has some majestic rooms and colourful ways of showcasing the artworks.

Buy a ticket for the Porzellansammlung and the other museums in the Zwinger here ( adlink ).

8. Semperoper – Dresden Opera House

Right next to the Zwinger lies the Dresden Opera House called Semperoper .

Operas, ballets, music and theatre shows are on all year round, but if you can’t quite find a performance that suits you, it’s also possible to go on a guided tour ( adlink ).

Even if you skip the show and the tour, you must pass by the square and enjoy the building from the outside because it’s definitely one of the most spectacular buildings in Dresden.

9. Residenzschloss – Dresden Castle

In the middle of the old town and only a stone’s throw from the Semperoper opera house you will find Dresden Castle (also called the Royal Palace).

Dresden Castle is one of the oldest buildings in the city and it was once used as the residence of princes and kings in Saxony.

If you love old European palaces (like Victories does!), you have to experience the Residenzschloss.

The castle is now used as a wonderful museum full of treasures and art.

The general ticket ( adlink ) gives access to Neues Grünes Gewölbe (the New Green Vault), the Turkish Chamber, the Renaissance Wing, and the Armory.

For some reason, entry to the Historisches Grünes Gewölbe (the Historic Green Vault) has to be purchased separately. It can be done here .

Be aware that tickets can sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to order tickets at least a few days in advance.

10. Katholische Hofkirche – Dresden Cathedral

With a size of no less than 4,800 square metres, Dresden Cathedral is the largest church in the entire German state of Saxony .

You pass it quite naturally if you go to see the Opera House and Dresden Castle.

Dresden Cathedral, which in German is called Katholische Hofkirche, is originally from the 18th century . But like so many other buildings in Dresden, it had to be restored after the bomb damage during World War II.

Several members of the royal family are buried in the crypt – as is the heart of Augustus the Strong (the rest of his body is buried in Krakow, Poland).

11. Altmarkt – The old marketplace

While Neumarkt is the new square, Altmarkt is the old square (“neu” means new and “alt” means old).

In addition to restaurants, cafés and the shopping centre Altmarkt Gallery , you’ll find the Lutheran church of Kreuzkirche Dresden here. It was built in a Late Baroque style with a tall tower.

The Altmarkt square is especially known for housing one of Germany’s largest and best-known Christmas markets , Dresdner Striezelmarkt, considered to be the oldest Christmas market in the country (from 1434!).

12. Brühlsche Terrasse – Brühl’s Terrace

The Brühlsche Terrasse (Brühl’s Terrace) is a large pedestrian promenade along the river Elbe.

As it is stretching high above the bank of the river, it’s also sometimes referred to as the “Balcony of Europe” .

It’s a perfect place to stroll around with stunning views of the Elbe River and Dresden’s iconic Baroque buildings.

You’ll find Brühl’s Terrace in the Altstadt north of Neumarkt between the bridges Augustusbrücke and Carolabrücke. Towards the latter lies The Brühl Gardens , which is a nice little park to walk through.

13. Augustusbrücke – The Augustus Bridge

Perhaps you have already noticed that Augustus the Strong has made his mark in Dresden.

Well, he also lent his name to the bridge Augustusbrücke, which crosses the Elbe River and connects the modern new district of Neustadt in the north with the historic city centre Altstadt to the south.

Since the 12th century, there has been a bridge at that exact location but the present-day sandstone bridge with several arches was built in the early 20th century.

We walked over the bridge a handful of times and from the middle of it, you have such a beautiful view of the city’s photogenic skyline. It’s especially great for pictures just before sunset .

14. Elbe – The river that runs through Dresden

The Elbe cuts through the city and it’s impossible to avoid the river on a trip to Dresden.

That’s why we’ve included the Elbe in this Dresden travel guide – because there are many fun things to do on and along the river.

Take a walk along the banks, enjoy the view from the Brühlsche Terrasse, cross the river over one of the bridges or go on one of the popular canal cruises .

You can, for example, consider booking a relaxing trip on a charming paddle steamer ( adlink ) to the Loschwitz Bridge, where you can see beautiful Dresden from the water.

Or what about going on an extended boat trip all the way to Pillnitz Castle ( adlink ), where in addition to experiencing Dresden from the river, you also get 20 minutes to explore the beautiful palace grounds?

15. Hop-on hop-off bus tour in Dresden

Is there a big city in the world that doesn’t have hop-on hop-off buses ?

They’re in Dresden , that’s for sure. And although we didn’t personally hop-on, they can be smart (and fun) to use – especially if you only have a short amount of time in the city or don’t want to walk that much yourself.

From the top of the double-decker buses , you can enjoy the fresh air and nice views while being driven directly to some of the most popular sights and things to do in Dresden (including many of those we’ve included in this Dresden travel guide).

You can take the whole trip in one 90-minute loop and learn about Dresden from the comfort of your seat on the bus or you can hop on and off as much as you like during the period your ticket is valid.

There are 22 stops along the route and buses run every 15 to 30 minutes .

You can buy tickets that are valid for 1 day or 2 days ( adlinks ) and both of the tickets also include guided tours to some of the sights and attractions.

16. Neustadt – The new district

We’ve written plenty about the old historic district of Dresden – what about the new district ?

Neustadt is just on the other side of the Elbe to the north of the old town and can easily be reached with the help of one of the bridges that cross the river.

If you’re travelling on a budget, this part of Dresden is most likely where you’ll be staying. We stayed in Neustadt ourselves during our time in the city.

The Neustadt area has a more modern feel to it with street art and lots of shops and delicious restaurants.

Although there are not too many things to do and see here, there are still a few that are worth mentioning. We’ll share them in the next few sections.

17. Goldener Reiter – The Golden Knight

If you come to Neustadt via the Augustus Bridge, you will immediately catch a glimpse of the Goldener Reiter (The Golden Knight).

As the name suggests, it’s a golden statue of Augustus the Strong sitting on a horse – dressed as a Roman Caesar.

The area around the statue is very green with small fountains. Behind it there is a nice tree-filled avenue leading down to Albertplatz.

In winter there is a Christmas market here which is supposedly more relaxed than the big, famous Striezelmarkt mentioned earlier.

18. Kunsthofpassage – Backyard art

One of the most special things to see in Dresden’s Neustadt is the Kunsthofpassage.

The Kunsthofpassage consists of five small backyards that were converted into an art experiment called the Ginkgo Project .

A group of artists, sculptors and designers redesigned the facades of the old buildings in 2001, so now each building and yard has its own theme.

There are also cute outdoor cafés, artist studios and small shops.

The distinctive “Hof der Elemente” (Garden of the Elements) is probably the most photographed of the backyards. Here, a drain and gutter system covers the entire facade between the windows and balconies.

When it rains, music plays from the creative system that has been set up.

If it rains on your trip to Dresden, you know where you have to go!

Kunsthofpassage is not visible from the street, so it’s not a place you easily stumble upon. Luckily it’s on Google Maps so you can find it that way.

19. Japanisches Palais – The Japanese Palace

The Japanese Palace is a wonderful building seen from the outside.

It was originally built at the beginning of the 18th century to house Augustus the Strong’s porcelain collection, but as you know, the collection is now found in the Zwinger Complex, and today the palace instead houses the Ethnological Museum and various changing exhibitions.

There are divided opinions about the museum inside, and since we’ve not been there ourselves, we will just recommend visiting the Japanese Palace’s small courtyard .

We enjoyed a bowl of soup and a cup of coffee in the afternoon. It’s a super cosy place for a small break.

Around the Japanese Palace, there is also a park with many small paths to walk on.

20. Saxon Switzerland National Park – A unique natural area

One of the best things to do in Dresden is, in our opinion, to venture outside of Dresden to go to the Saxon Switzerland National Park (or National Park Sächsische Schweiz in German).

The national park is for sure worthy of a day trip if you like hiking and experiencing unique nature.

In fact, the beautiful rocky canyon landscape and the famous Bastei Bridge was why Dresden got on our travel radar in the first place!

The sandstone mountains are found about an hour’s drive east of Dresden on the Czech border.

The Bastei Cliffs and the Bastei Bridge are the main tourist draws here.

The bridge is built into the rocks and most of all looks like something straight out of a fairy tale or a fantasy film .

The bridge was completely covered in fog when we were there at sunrise but we returned at sunset to an absolutely fantastic sight.

In between, we wandered around the national park and, among other things, hiked up to see the view at the Schrammsteinaussicht as well as explored Felsenburg Neurathen ; a castle built into the rocks.

We could write an entire travel guide to the Saxon Switzerland National Park because we simply loved it so much. Go there!

If you want to spend more than a day in the national park, you can consider staying in nearby Bad Schandau , for example at the beautiful spa hotel Elbresidenz an der Therme (adlink) .

Otherwise, you can take a day trip from Dresden like we did.

We drove there in our own car but there is also the option of going on an arranged trip that includes transport to and from Dresden.

You can see some of the popular options below.

21. Schloss Pillnitz – Pillnitz Castle

The lavish castle Schloss Pillnitz is located next to the Elbe River approximately 30 minutes of driving from Dresden.

Once again, Augustus the Strong is behind one of the special attractions in Dresden…

He had the castle built and renovated as a summer residence in the 1720s. Descendants of Augustus the Strong used it until 1918.

The castle actually consists of three palaces and there are several museums.

Experience the Domed Hall , which was used as a ballroom and dining room, the Royal Kitchen and the Catholic Chapel . You can also see Saxon (and European) arts and crafts from the 17th and 18th centuries.

On the grounds of the castle, there are also some beautiful landscaped gardens and a big palm house with plants from South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

For a more scenic and adventurous trip than just driving from Dresden, you can sail along the Elbe on one of the historic paddle steamers on a canal cruise that goes to Pillnitz Castle ( adlink ).

Map of Dresden

Find all the best things to do and see in Dresden on the map below.

Which part of Dresden should you stay in?

Overall, Dresden can be divided into two areas: The old town and the new town .

As a rule of thumb, the old town of Altstadt is a little more expensive to live in as you’re close to the best sights in the city.

In the new and more modern district of Neustadt , you do have to walk a little further or take public transport to get to the historic city centre. In return, you’ll find cheaper accommodation .

Many of the best hotels in Dresden are located in the Altstadt (old town) but there are definitely some really good options in Neustadt (new town) as well.

Search for the best and cheapest hotels in Dresden here ( adlink ).

The best hotels in Dresden

5-star stays in dresden at 4-star prices.

There are several fantastic 5-star hotels in Dresden and last time we looked the prices were surprisingly low !

We don’t know why. Perhaps Dresden is just not as popular for city trips as for example Paris or Rome .

Anyway, this means that you can either save a little money and stay cheaper than you would otherwise – or perhaps upgrade your room a bit and get a lot of value for your money.

• Hyperion Hotel Dresden Am Schloss (5*) : Luxury hotel in the middle of Dresden’s old town with comfortable rooms, roof terrace, fitness centre, spa and sauna.
• Felix Suites at the Zwinger (5*) : 5-star apartment hotel where each apartment has its own kitchen. Beautiful view of the old town, modern gym and good facilities.
• Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection (5*) : Pool, beautiful rooms and a perfect location. Doesn’t get much better.
• Relais & Châteaux Bülow Palais (5*) : In a royal mood? Here you can sleep like an emperor or empress without being ruined.
• Suitess – At the Frauenkirche (5*) : Choose between exclusive apartments and hotel rooms in the middle of the old town.
• Hotel Elbresidenz an der Therme Bad Schandau (5*) : Beautiful spa hotel in Bad Schandau, located just 30 kilometres from Dresden. Perfect for visiting the Saxon Switzerland National Park.

Hotels in Dresden with good value for money

There are several fantastic 3 and 4-star hotels in Dresden where you get really good value for money. Here is a small selection.

• INNSiDE by Meliá Dresden (4,5*) : Nice rooms and great facilities for the money while being close to the Elbe in Altstadt.
• ARCOTEL HafenCity Dresden (4*) : A short walk from the city centre but offers large rooms, fitness, meeting facilities – and pets are welcome.
• Hotel Indigo Dresden – Wettiner Platz (IHG Hotel) (4*) : Stylish, subdued rooms right by the Altstadt – including a fitness centre.
• Aparthotel am Zwinger (3*) : Apartments with kitchen less than 1 kilometre from the old town.
• NH Dresden-Neustadt (4*) : One of the cheapest hotels in Dresden which is still reasonably located in relation to the city’s sights and attractions.
• Schiffsherberge Pöppelmann (2*) : The bathrooms are shared – but you do live cheaply and centrally on a boat in the Elbe River.

Like other German cities, Dresden is a relatively safe city to visit – also at night.

With that said, you naturally always have to be aware when you move around in a larger city.

Take your precautions and use your common sense .

Beware of pickpockets at the busiest tourist attractions and on public transport.

We felt entirely comfortable in Dresden and would personally think that the city is at least as safe to visit as other big cities in Germany and Western European countries.

Dresden is a relatively compact city, so the best way to get around is to walk .

It’s easy and safe .

Once you’re in the old town, Altstadt, you can easily walk to all the main sights of Dresden.

If you live in the Neustadt (modern part of town), it can save you some time and energy to take a tram into the old district but it’s definitely also possible to walk there – it just takes a little longer.

Put on some good shoes and get around for free by simply walking from one place to the next – and you’ll be sure to see some interesting things along the way, too.

By public transport

Dresden has a public transport system consisting of buses , trams , trains and even boats .

It’s punctual and relatively cheap to use. Just be aware that there is limited service after midnight.

If you expect to use the public transport system a lot on your trip, it might be worth looking into the Dresden City Card ( adlink ).

At the same time, you get discounts on entrance to museums, city tours and selected sights in Dresden (among other things).

See the prices and read more about the advantages of the Dresden City Card here ( adlink ).

Single-ride and day tickets for public transport in Dresden are also sold in vending machines at the largest stations and inside all trams and buses.

The old trams only accept cash, while the new trams and buses are cashless and only accept credit cards. Remember to stamp the ticket before use to validate it.

You can also use the app DVB mobil and easily buy your ticket on the phone before you get on. Read more about the public transport system DVB here .

There are also a number of options to rent bicycles and electric scooters around town.

We drove to Dresden ourselves but during our stay in the city, we didn’t use the car to get around.

Luckily we found a free parking space in a residential area so we could walk around and take the tram once or twice.

Of course, there are also quite a few paid parking spaces and parking garages in the city.

Below, we elaborate on the options for how best to get to Dresden.

Car to Dresden

Dresden is well connected to the German Autobahn system (national highways).

That means it’s easy to get here by car from all over Europe.

Dresden is one of the larger German cities that many people pass by if they drive from Denmark and further down through Europe – for example to the Czech Republic, Austria , Italy or Croatia.

Be aware that people drive very fast on the stretches of autobahn that do not have speed limits. Take caution.

Take the train to Dresden

Dresden is well connected to the Germain train network.

From Berlin, it takes approximately 2-2,5 hours to go to Dresden by train.

Flights to Dresden

Dresden has its own airport called Dresden Airport (Flughafen Dresden).

While it’s not huge, it does have connections to for example Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt as well as other big cities in Europe.

Use our adlink below to find the cheapest tickets:

Search for the cheapest flight tickets on Momondo .

The weather and the seasons are worth paying attention to when planning a trip to Dresden.

But when is the best time to travel to Dresden?

We were there ourselves at the beginning of October and enjoyed the beautiful autumn colours and the warm weather.

Dresden can be visited all year round and there really isn’t a bad time to go to the city. We imagine that each season is special in its own way .

Spring is a great time to visit Germany with sunny days and blooming flowers. It can still be a bit chilly, so check the forecast before you pack.

Summer is of course the hottest season, and the temperatures can get quite high in July and August. At the same time, it’s also at its rainiest in the summer. The summer holidays in Germany are spread out between mid-June and mid-September.

Autumn is super nice with orange colours everywhere, and you have plenty of excuses to stop in at cosy cafés for cake and a cup of something hot to drink. The most beautiful autumn colours can typically be seen at the end of September and in October, perhaps also at the beginning of November before the leaves fall off the trees.

Winter can be cold in Dresden, but on the other hand, there are usually fewer tourists – except around Christmas and New Year. The city looks beautiful when it’s covered in snow. If you visit during the Christmas period, you must not miss one of Germany’s largest and best-known Christmas markets , which can be found on the Altmarkt as well as the Christmas market on the Neumarkt.

As with most other holiday destinations (and especially with big cities in Europe), it can be a good idea to plan around the most common holidays if you want to avoid large crowds and at the same time get the benefit of cheaper accommodation.

For shorter queues and cheaper hotel prices , January, February, March and November are the cheapest options – if you don’t mind colder weather.

For the best weather , we would recommend visiting Dresden in May, June, September and October.

• Credit cards can be used in most shops, but as in the rest of Germany, cash is still often used and it’s not unusual for cash to be used in parking and ticket machines, at cafés and the like.
• Get up early and be one of the first at an attraction if you want to avoid long queues in the high season.
• Drink tap water . It’s not only good for the planet, it’s also good for your wallet. The tap water in Dresden is absolutely safe to drink – so bring a refillable bottle.
• Travel to Dresden outside of the holidays . Accommodation prices are lower, good deals are easier found and there are fewer tourists.
• Walk, walk and walk some more . Walking around Dresden is free, easy and good for the soul. And you’ll probably find many hidden gems along the way.
• Consider buying a Dresden City Card ( adlink ), if you plan to use public transport to get around (and/or visit any museums).
• Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
• A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Sunscreen (adlink) . Especially if you visit Dresden in the summer. We recommend that you use an organic, vegan sunscreen without oxybenzone and other harmful chemicals.
• Sneakers or other types of shoes you can walk in comfortably.
• A refillable water bottle . Just drink water from the tap in Dresden.
• Cash for parking and other small purchases, especially 1 and 2-euro coins. Not all places in Germany accept credit cards.

To minimise your impact during your visit, follow these guidelines:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid single-use plastics , including straws.
• Dispose of waste properly and do not throw it on the ground.
• Take only photos, leave only footprints . Let everything stay in its natural place.
• Be considerate of other visitors .
• Respect wildlife .

Thanks for reading

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Dresden. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think of Saxony’s historic capital?

If you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks in the comments. Is there a cool or fun thing to do or see that we forgot to include?

Don’t hesitate to ask us anything if you haven’t been to Dresden yet. We are happy to help.

Pin for later:

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .

Related articles:

• Büsum Travel Guide: 10 Best Things To Do & See by the Wadden Sea - Everything you need to know about Büsum including what to do, when to visit and where to stay
• Bad Segeberg Travel Guide: 8 Best Things To Do & See Around the Fascinating Mountain - Everything you need to know about Bad Segeberg including what to do, where to stay, when to visit - and when not to!
• Travel Guide to the Duchy of Lauenburg Region: 7 Best Things To Do & See - Everything you need to know about the Duchy of Lauenburg region including what to do, when to visit and where to stay
• Plön Travel Guide: 10 Best Things To Do & See in the Beautiful Lake Landscape - Everything you need to know about Plön including what to do, when to visit and where to stay
• Eutin Travel Guide: 10 Best Things To Do & See in the Cultural Heart of Holstein - Everything you need to know about Eutin including what to do, when to visit and where to stay

2 thoughts on “ A Complete Travel Guide to Dresden: 21 Best Things To Do & See ”

Hello there! I just finished reading your Dresden travel guide on the best things to do and see, and I must say, it’s an exceptional resource for anyone planning a trip to this fascinating city. Your article offers a comprehensive guide that highlights the top attractions and experiences in Dresden.

I appreciate how you’ve curated a list of the best things to do and see in Dresden, showcasing the city’s rich history, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels. From the iconic Frauenkirche and the grand Zwinger Palace to the picturesque Elbe River and the vibrant Neustadt district, your guide covers a diverse range of experiences. The inclusion of practical tips and recommendations for each attraction, such as opening hours and nearby amenities, adds immense value to the article.

Furthermore, your descriptions and insights about each place provide a deeper understanding of Dresden’s significance and charm. It’s evident that you have a genuine passion for the city, and your enthusiasm shines through your writing. The stunning photographs accompanying the post further enhance the visual experience and make me eager to explore Dresden myself.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful travel guide to Dresden. Your article has not only educated me about the city but has also inspired me to visit and discover its unique treasures. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your travel guides and recommendations.

Thanks so much for your kind words!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Destinations
• Digital Nomad
• Travel Tips
• Inspiration
• Travel Videos
• Work With Us

Copyright © 2024 Northabroad

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Dresden

Known as a city of art and architecture, Dresden offers visitors to Germany a wealth of attractions, from sensational Baroque buildings through to Gerhard Richter ‘s Abstract creations. We’ve selected from the city’s museums and galleries, as well as festivals, history and culture, to bring you the ultimate must-visit list when in Dresden.

1. canaletto's view.

Head to the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters Picture Gallery) in the extensive Zwinger palace complex (see below), and study the most famous view of Dresden – Canaletto’s Dresden Seen From the Right Bank of the River Elbe Below the Augustus Bridge . This 18th-century masterpiece from the Venetian great portrays the city’s Baroque gems in all their glory, before they were destroyed in the February 1945 bombings during World War II. Then go to the right bank of the Elbe, near the Augustusbrücke to the spot where Canaletto’s view was conceived, and look across to the new-old cityscape.

Theaterplatz 1, Dresden, Germany , +49 351 4914 2000

Canaletto’s Dresden Seen From the Bank of the River Elbe Below the Augustus Bridge , 1748 | © Elke Estel/Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister/Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden

2. Royal Palace

From 1485, the Wettin royal family lorded it over Saxony from the Residenzschloss (Royal Palace) in central Dresden. Similar to so many historically and architecturally significant buildings in the city, it was hugely damaged during the Allied bombing and was fortunate to survive demolition after 1945. Check out the Green Vault (Grünes Gewölbe), one of Europe’s most renowned collections of treasures and artefacts.

Taschenberg 2, Dresden, Germany , +49 351 4914 2000

Dresden’s Royal Palace, which dates back to the 15th century as home to the royal family | © Kolossos/WikiCommons

Jazz events

If you’re in Dresden for even a short period, there is a chance you’ll happen upon a festival or two during your stay. The International Dixieland Festival Dresden will hit its 48th edition in May 2018 and continues to be a major success – claimed to be the largest ‘old-time jazz’ festival in Europe, it features bands from across the planet. Fans of more modern jazz will enjoy the several-week November Jazztage festival.

City Festival

Another major annual marker on the calendar is the Dresden Stadtfest city festival, also known as Canaletto, which celebrates the foundation of Dresden. It takes place in the third weekend of August and features thousands of artists, attracting more than half a million visitors. Favourites are the arts and crafts from the Middle Ages, jousting tournaments, musical events and – of course – the obligatory fireworks.

3. Opera at Semper

As one of Europe’s most historic and renowned centres of music, a visit to Dresden isn’t complete without heading to the Semper Opera , also part of the Zwinger complex. Before being chased out of Saxony for his revolutionary beliefs, Richard Wagner premiered some early works in the city, and his – and other great composers’ – works feature regularly.

Theaterplatz 2, Dresden, Germany , +49 351 4911 705

Semper Opera | © Allie_Caulfield/Flickr

Started under Saxony’s most famous ruler, Elector August Friedrich I, the Baroque style Zwinger palace complex has been dubbed one of the greatest ‘complete works of art’ ever created. Constructed to house culture and entertainment for the Dresden Court, it was later rebuilt after wartime destruction. As well as the Semper Opera and the Old Masters Picture Gallery, there’s also a Mathematical-Physics Salon (Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon) much-loved by techies. Take your time with the art collection, as there’s everything from Raphael to Rubens … and that Canaletto.

Sophienstraße, Dresden, Germany , + 49 351 491 420 00

Old Masters Picture Gallery | © Jorge Royan/WikiCommons

5. Gerhard Richter at the Albertinum

Born in Dresden in 1932, artist Gerhard Richter was fortunate that he was too young to fight in World War II. However, the hardship of Nazi period, including the war years and their aftermath, shaped him and his work. Dresden’s New Masters Gallery (Galerie Neue Meisters) in the Albertinum museum holds the Richter Archive, and shows a selection from this modern master. There are also works by Monet, Caspar David Friedrich and Degas, among other art greats.

(entrance Brühlsche Terrasse and Georg-Treu-Platz) Dresden, Germany , +49 351 4914 2000

Gerhard Richter Abstraktes Bild (946-3) 2016 I © Gerhard Richter 2017/Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden

6. Christmas Market

Having taken place a grand total of 583 times, the annual Dresdener Striezelmarkt claims to be the oldest Christmas market in the world still running. It opens at the end of November and continues until Christmas Eve, and contains a whole host of Christmassy events, from carol singing through to an award ceremony for a Gingerbread Queen. While in the Altstadt (Old Town), buy a Dresden Christstollen, the cake which gives the market its historic name: ‘ struzel ‘ or ‘ striezel ‘ is old German for this long, baked yeast product crafted into a woven shape.

Altstadt, Dresden, Germany

Dresden”s Striezelmarkt, in existence since 1434 | © Sylvio Dittrich/Dresden Tourist Office

7. Großer Garten park

Botanical Garden, Museum, Park

Like most of the best big-sized cities in Germany, green spaces are vital for quality of life. Dresden is blessed with a number of parks and other green areas, with the Großer Garten the best and largest amid the hubbub of the city and within touching distance of the Altstadt. As well as sports arenas, palaces, art and lakes, there is the German Hygiene Museum and the Botanical Garden.

Dresden, Germany , +49 351 445 6600

Palace Großer Garten| © Michael Schultz/Schlösserland Sachsen

8. Kulturpalast

Concert Hall, Library

On April 28, 2017, the long-planned renovation of Dresden’s Kulturpalast arrived, though in fact it was actually something of a second coming. The Kulturpalast is considered an iconic piece of East German communist-era architecture and was first opened back in 1969. Its recent modernisation includes a new concert hall, and is home to the city’s philharmonic orchestra, as well as the city library.

Schloßstr. 2, Dresden, Germany , +49 351 656 067 00 (Dresdner Musikfestspiele), +49 351 486 6866 (Dresdner Philharmonie), +49 351 864 8113 (city library)

Kulturpalast, a relic of communism, renovated and reopened in 2017 | © Nikolaj Lund/Kulturpalast Dresden

9. Bundeswehr Military History Museum

10. The World of the GDR

Communism reigned in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR, but DDR in German) across five decades, and its legacy continues to affect politics and culture here. The notion of ‘Ostalgie’ is often thrown at people who grew up under communist rule, who get positively nostalgic about the period. True or not, visitors to Die Welt der DDR museum don’t have to have experienced real-life communism to enjoy a fascinating glimpse of what life was like in Dresden between 1945 and 1989.

Antonstraße 2A, Dresden, Germany , +49 351 5634 0888

Dresden’s Welt der DDR museum shows life under East German communism | © www.weltderddr.de

11. New Synagogue

12. Brühl's Terrace

Carrying the moniker of ‘the Balcony of Europe’, Brühl’s Terrace was one of the hot locations for the educated and rich for centuries. Just like today, they came to stare at the cultural wonders of baroque Dresden from this terrace above the waters of the River Elbe.

Georg-Treu-Platz 1, Dresden, Germany

Brühl’s Terrace, with silhouette of the Kunstakademie, Frauenkirche and Cathedral at night | © Frank Exß/Dresden Tourist Office

13. Festung Dresden

Festung Dresden is a fortress situated beneath Brühl’s Terrace, and includes some of the oldest still existing Renaissance parts of the city. Opened to the public back in 1814, the vaults, casemates and a surviving city gate attract many visitors every year. The interior is undergoing refurbishment at the moment, and is due to re-open next year with the exhibition ‘ Splendor. Tears. Disaster. Closer than ever ‘ outlining more than 450 years of history.

Georg-Treu-Platz 1, Dresden, Germany , +49 351 4383 7030

Below Brühl’s Terrace is Festung Dresden | © DMG/Dittrich/Dresden Tourist Office

14. Dresden Cathedral

15. Loschwitz

If you want to see how some of the richest people in the world lived in the 1920s and 1930s, have a stroll around Loschwitz, a Dresden suburb. It’s packed with villas and there is a rare funicular railway with a great view of the valley below.

Dresden, Germany

The funicular railway at Loschwitz | © Verkehrsverband Oberelbe GmbH/photo Martin Schmidt /Dresden Tourist Office

16. Blue Wonder Bridge

17. Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche Baroque church was all but destroyed during World War II, and was for decades left as a vivid reminder of the destruction of war. Recently rebuilt, not to universal approval because of its anti-war ruined symbolism, it is a focal point of the city’s ever-evolving new and rebuilt Neustadt.

Neumarkt, Dresden , +49 351 6560 6100

The Frauenkirche, on Dresden’s Neumarkt | © Frank Exß/Dresden Tourist Office

18. Meissen porcelain

The Meissen porcelain manufacturer is nowadays actually around 26 km (16 miles) from Dresden but it started life within the old city. Dresden was, of course, home to the first Europeans to discover the secrets of hard-paste porcelain, and the prestige of its producs continues to the present day.

Talstraße 9, Meissen, Germany , +49 352 146 8600

Meissen porcelain monkey | © Daderot/WikiCommons

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

10 reasons why you should visit bavaria.

Places in Germany for History Lovers

Guides & Tips

Top tips for travelling in germany.

The Story Behind Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in garmisch for every traveller.

Architecture

Breathtakingly beautiful buildings in germany.

The Best Hotels in Germany for Every Traveller

Stay Curious: Experience Germany From Your Living Room

The Best Spa Hotels in Baden-Baden

The Best Hotels to Book in Thuringia, Germany

A Voyage Through Germany: the Lowdown on River Cruising

Craft and Culture in the Lesser-Known Gems of Eastern Germany

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1344912
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

The 11 Best Things to Do in Dresden, Germany

• Pinterest 88

You’ll find Dresden and its glorious medieval, baroque, and neo-renaissance architecture on the serene banks of the River Elbe. Arrayed across the Elbe Valley, Dresden’s history can be traced back to the 12th century, while its famous Christmas market is not much younger, having been held almost continuously since 1434.

As you stroll through the Neumarkt and along Bruhl’s Terrace (nicknamed the “Balcony of Europe”), you’ll soon understand why the dukes, electors, and kings of Saxony made Dresden their royal capital. Along the banks of the River Elbe are grand palaces and palatial gardens, while the riches, treasures, and artwork of the Saxon nobility can be found in the Green Vault and the Old and New Masters’ Galleries.

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Dresden for you. Stick to these fun and unique Dresden bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous European city!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

11 Fun and Unique Things to do in Dresden, Germany

1. see saxon royalty at dresden castle.

Dresden Castle is one of the most impressive Dresden attractions. Rising above the banks of the River Elbe, for centuries, this was the home of Saxony’s noble and royal families. 

Today, the sprawling royal complex is a mélange of baroque and Renaissance architecture largely dating from the 18th and 19th centuries when Saxony was an independent German kingdom. The history of Dresden Castle can be traced back much further than this, to when it was founded as a fortress in the 12th century AD.

Like much of Dresden, the castle and its royal palace were destroyed during World War II. It was slowly rebuilt (renovations are still ongoing today), and as you tour through stately rooms and grand dining halls, you’ll see the lavish lifestyles lived by the Saxon royal family. 

2. Examine Treasures Inside the Green Vault 

A visit to the Green Vault is easily one of the best things to do in Dresden. Located within the Dresden Castle complex, the Green Vault is one of the oldest museums anywhere in the world.

The Green Vault (named for the green-colored pillars found within) was originally used in the 17th century as a secure vault for the Saxon nobility’s treasures. In the 1720s, Saxon ruler Augustus the Strong decided to open the vault, and its many treasures, to the public, inadvertently opening an early type of museum in the process. 

Augustus the Strong displayed treasures from across the world, including ivory and bronze from Africa and his royal family’s crown jewels. The Green Vault was damaged during World War II, but it was reopened in 2004. 

3. Join a Walking Tour of Dresden’s Old Town 

Nothing beats a walking tour, and if you’re looking to see the best sights in Dresden, it’s the best introduction to the city. 

Free, tips-based walking tours depart several times per day from the Martin Luther Statue (near the Frauenkirche) in the Neumarkt. From here, you’ll delve into the Saxon history of Dresden before learning how the city’s medieval and baroque architecture was almost obliterated during the Second World War. 

But Dresden is like a phoenix, and from local guides, you’ll also hear how the city was rebuilt, over many decades, from the rubble. There are niche tours you can book in Dresden, too, including food, beer, and most intriguing of all, the Night Watchman’s Tour by lantern light !

4. Walk Along Bruhl’s Terrace 

Taking a walk along Bruhl’s Terrace is one of the top things to do in Dresden. This beautiful terrace sits high above the River Elbe, offering sweeping views of Dresden’s cityscape from its lofty perch. 

Bruhl’s Terrace was originally part of the city’s defensive walls, but in 1814, after the Saxons won the Battle of Leipzig, the walls were opened to the public and transformed into a glorious viewing terrace worthy of victory. 

Bruhl’s Terrace is now nicknamed the “Balcony of Europe,” and as you stroll above the river banks, walking past the Frauenkirche and Dresden Castle, you’ll soon understand why!

5. Admire the Reconstructed Frauenkirche

One of the most iconic Dresden attractions, the Frauenkirche , with its beautiful baroque architecture, is both a symbol of Dresden’s past and its more recent history. 

Built as a Lutheran church in the 18th century, the Frauenkirche was the seat of religion in Saxony’s capital. The church’s splendid dome and lavish interior were a tribute to Dresden’s prestige, but during World War II, the Frauenkirche was razed to the ground.

The Allied firebombing of Dresden caused unprecedented loss of life and cultural destruction on a level unknown before. Much of the city was destroyed, and as a monument to those who lost their lives, the East German government decided that the Frauenkirche would remain a pile of symbolic rubble in the city center.

However, the citizens had other plans, and once Germany reunited in the 1990s, the Frauenkirche was pieced back together, brick by brick. Today, it stands proud once more, after a massive rebuilding effort brought this Dresden landmark back from the dead. 

6. Visit the New Masters’ Gallery at the Albertinum

Art lovers have made a great choice to visit Dresden, given the capital of Saxony is home to one of Europe’s most impressive art collections.

Head to the Albertinum (built in the late 19th century and named after King Albert of Saxony), and you can see the work of Europe’s New Masters on display. The gallery is home to several hundred classic paintings by a range of artists, including Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh, who were active in the 19th and early 20th centuries. 

The Albertinum is located on Bruhl’s Terrace, where it forms a particularly aesthetic addition to Dresden’s skyline. 

7. And the Old Masters Gallery at The Zwinger 

Dresden’s baroque architecture found its apogee with the construction of The Zwinger, a vast palace and gardens built during the reign of Augustus the Strong in the early 1700s.

Located in the Old Town, the palatial grounds are home to lavish sculptures and pleasure gardens, just as the 18th-century Saxon nobles envisaged it. Much has been reconstructed, however, given The Zwinger was heavily bombed during the Second World War. 

The Zwinger is also home to one of the best art museums in Dresden, the Semper Galerie, which opened in 1855. The Semper Galerie is where you’ll find the Old Masters’ Gallery , an impressive collection of artwork created by the likes of Raphael, Rubens, and Rembrandt between the 15th and 18th centuries.

8. Cruise on the River Elbe 

The River Elbe is the lifeblood of Dresden, and there’s no better way to experience the city’s glorious skyline than with a cruise along the river.

The river is well-known for its historic paddle steamers, pleasure boats that have plied the waters for decades. One of the most fun Dresden activities, this is the oldest paddle steamer fleet in the world, and you can sit back in historic surroundings as you take in famous sights like the Frauenkirche and Bruhl’s Terrace.

You can take a short cruise through Dresden, book a romantic dinner cruise at sunset, or join a longer day tour along the River Elbe to romantic Saxon towns like Meissen. 

9. Get Festive at the Striezelmarkt 

The Striezelmarkt is one of the most famous things to see in Dresden. The city has hosted its iconic Christmas market almost every year without fail (World War II aside) since 1434. And if you’re planning an end-of-year trip, this is easily one of the best things to do in Dresden.

Celebrations begin at the end of November, as the start of Advent is marked as the market is officially opened.

For the Advent period, Dresden’s Old Town is thrown over to wooden market stalls, carol singers, and Gluhwein drinkers in one of the most traditional Christmas markets in Germany . 

10. Day Trip to Saxon Switzerland National Park

A day trip to Saxon Switzerland National Park is one of the most incredible Dresden activities. Located just a one-hour drive from the city, you’ll be awed by the dramatic rock formations of this spectacular national park.

The national park protects the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, a unique mountain range on the border with Czechia, where the rocks and peaks have been eroded over time into dramatic shapes.

The most famous sight in Saxon Switzerland is the Bastei Bridge, which offers glorious views as it weaves its way through tall rock formations. The national park is the perfect place for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and many more active pursuits, making it a great place for outdoor lovers to visit during their stay in Dresden.

11. Admire Pillnitz Palace and Park

Saxon king Augustus the Strong left an indelible mark on Dresden’s skyline, especially so when he commissioned the lavish Pillnitz Palace for his mistress. 

Located on the serene banks of the River Elbe, in what were then the suburbs of Dresden, Pillnitz Palace quickly became the favored summer escape for Saxony’s nobility. 

Surrounded by vineyards and home to English and Chinese gardens as well as greenhouses and exotic flora sourced from all over the world, today, the Pillnitz Palace and Park continues to offer a refreshing escape from the city. 

There you have it! The 11 best things to do in Dresden. What’s your favorite thing to do in Dresden?

Planning a trip to Germany? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

View all posts

Related Posts

The 15 Best Distilleries in England to Sip Whiskey & Gin

The 16 Best Rooftop Bars in Barcelona, Spain

3 Days in Geneva: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

4 days to learn about Dresden

Nov 15, 2022 • 13 min read

Visitors look out from Bastei near Dresden © Elizaveta Kovaleva/Lonely Planet

Located on the Elbe River in Saxony, Dresden has a history and continued rebirth that landed it on our Best in Travel list of places to learn.

You can certainly see Dresden in a day, but there is so much to learn about the city and the surrounding area. Seema Prakash, who offers walking tours of the city, suggested this four-day expanded tour to those who might have more time to enjoy Dresden. 

Dresden bewitched me the moment I saw the sun rise over its domes and baroque skyline on a magical morning in 2009. I was traveling solo, fleeing from a deep personal crisis in order to take time off to consider my future, when Dresden’s legendary rising-from-the-ashes story resonated with my own – and set me off on my new career as a licensed guide. (Or as my mother called it: a psychohistorian!) More than a decade later, I know every one of Dresden’s graceful facets. To show guests my Dresden in a manner that is entertaining, informative and engaging is my personal credo.

Why you should visit Dresden

Some of us believe that the Elbe slows down as it passes its beloved Dresden, kissing both banks before flowing onward. You can discover Dresden’s beauty in the lush wine-growing slopes along the river, as well as in the historic center: in squares ringed by iconic buildings, in tall steeples and towers of its churches, in airy cobbled courtyards and (especially) in the galleries of its sumptuous museums. After being nearly bombed into oblivion during WWII, Dresden has been lovingly rebuilt, and now waits to be discovered by discerning travelers who love culture, history and – of course – wine.

Altstadt walking tour

9am – Kick off your Dresden adventure with a leisurely breakfast. In Altstadt (Old Town), Alex offers a reasonable and satisfying buffet spread; Elbsalon in Neustadt (New Town) serves up pancakes with fresh fruit, waffles and eggs, as well as vegan options. If you want to get out and go, grab a light-as-air croissant at Emoi, also in Neustadt.

10:30am – Hit the cobbled streets and historic squares of the Old Town on a two-hour walking tour, and learn how this one-time “Florence on the Elbe” was destroyed in WWII, then painstakingly reconstructed. Afterward, on your own, discover the Zwinger , a sumptuous open-air party pavilion near the palace, built by the colorful ruler Augustus the Strong. Since you’re on vacation, sit down for a glass of wine (we recommend a locally produced Goldriesling) and admire this folly’s baroque flourishes, including sandstone cherubs, nymphs and a large fountain.

Neumarkt for lunch

12:30pm – After your interactive history lesson, head to Neumarkt for lunch. Restaurant Pulverturm offers such hearty Saxon fare as soured beef roast, crispy schnitzel and a classic German roulade – thinly cut and rolled beef stuffed with onions, pickles, mustard and bacon, served with red cabbage or potato dumplings. As an alternative, Anna im Schloss at the Royal Palace might tempt you with Eierschecke, a unique Saxon cheesecake; and Quarkkäulchen, small pancakes made from potatoes served with quark, a creamy, spreadable cheese. 

Whichever spot you choose, eat light – as you will want all your wits about you as you encounter the splendor of Dresden’s State Art Collections.  

Be dazzled by Dresden's State Art Collections

2pm – With their astonishing breadth, Dresden’s State Art Collections span 12 museums. An unparalleled visual treat, these holdings were amassed over centuries by the acquisitive Saxon royal family. At the Old Masters Gallery , you can gape at Raphael’s exquisite Sistine Madonna, as well as rooms filled with works by Rubens, Rembrandt and Vermeer. Or pick the Royal Palace (Residenzschloss), which combines reconstructed palace rooms and modern museum areas, taking you on a journey through the Renaissance and baroque eras. Look out for the original throne of Saxony , dresses and jewelry from the 16th to 18th centuries, portraits of the ruling family, plus armor, weapons and other personal objects fashioned out of precious metals and stones. Numerous group tours and package deals are available to get the most out of these world-class institutions; allow up to three hours to visit both.

Check out Panometer

If museums aren’t your thing, fret not. Take a tram and bus to the Panometer , a former gas-storage tank transformed by the artist Yadegar Assisi into a gigantic gallery. A painted, 360° panorama of baroque Dresden alternates with a second showing the smoldering ruins of the city after the 1945 firestorm. Whichever painting is on display at the time of your visit, expect a grand experience, one enhanced by sound and light effects.

From the Panometer, stroll back through the Grosser Garten (Great Garden), a mile-wide park laid out in the baroque style of a symmetrical grid. Next comes one of the most unusual car factories in the world: Volkswagen’s so-called Transparent Factory , where electric cars are assembled. Walk into the lobby and check out some of the interactive displays, book a tour of the production areas, take a test drive of a late-model e-car or just sample some excellent curry sausage in the bistro while taking in the high-tech ambience.

Stroll the Loschwitz Bridge

5pm – Tram number 12 takes you from the Transparent Manufactory to Schillerplatz in under 20 minutes. Stroll to the Elbe and on onto the 19th-century Loschwitz Bridge, locally known as the Blue Wonder, to enjoy the river breezes. At the foot of the bridge, find a table under the old trees of Schiller Garden, a centuries-old pub and beer garden where locals gather for specialty brews with fresh pretzels and hefty portions of German food (the knuckle of pork is easily their best seller). 

Alternatively, take tram 12 for the 20-minute journey from Schillerplatz back to the Altstadt, and walk to Brühl’s Terrace and the restaurants along the old fortification ramparts. Café Vis-à-vis and Radeberger Spezialausschank both offer a view of the Elbe together with steins of beer..

Look for a market in Altmarkt

6:30pm – Before leaving the Old Town, see if there’s a market happening in Altmarkt. In addition to the famous Christmas market, smaller markets take place to mark transitions in seasons, offering a collection of quaint stalls with regional street food, handicrafts and drinks. If it’s wine-harvesting season, try a Federweisser, wild, frothy young wine;  at Christmastime, a mulled Glühwine is a must. Zum Wohl !

Now It’s time to discover the other face of Dresden: grungy, edgy and bohemian Neustadt (New City). Take a tram or simply walk across Augustus Bridge, Dresden’s oldest, toward the statue of the Golden Rider, which depicts the conquering Saxon king August the Strong confidently riding out in the direction of Poland. Follow Hauptstrasse – a once wide baroque alley, that was destroyed in the war and recreated as a boulevard in the 1970s in typical East German style – to Albertplatz, and its two gigantic fountains adorned with mermaids and mermen. Veer right in the direction of the 19th-century Gothic Revival Martin Luther Kirche, and take in some of Dresden’s only remaining Wilhelminian-style architecture, which features luxe stucco facade decorations, oriel windows and towers, and decorative wrought-iron doors.

Look for Kunsthofpassage

As you walk through Neustadt, your goal is to get as lost as possible, as you discover street art, decipher graffiti, wander through small side streets and stumble across charming courtyards such as Roskolnikoff, a small restaurant that seems to have never been informed of East Germany’s fall. Look for the Kunsthofpassage, a series of connected, once-abandoned courtyards transformed by artists into whimsical streetscapes dotted with small boutiques. 

7:30pm – There are more than 200 bars and restaurants in Neustadt’s square mile, some so small that they fit barely five guests at a time. If there is a football match on, head straight away for Katy’s Garage, an open-air bar with giant TV screens. Be sure to order a glass of the signature, potent Erdbeerbowle – a punch made with fresh strawberries (when in season).  

9pm – Set out for a pub crawl, or settle down in one of Neustadt’s many shisha bars. (Habibi on the corner of Louisenstrasse and Martin Luther Strasse is a restaurant, cafe and shisha bar with great ambiance.) The day’s grand finale will take place at Franks Bar on Alaunstrasse. The hot spot’s young owner, Ilya, spent the pandemic year experimenting with ingredients to create his masterpiece: a Black Forest Cake in liquid (and alcohol-heavy) form. If that’s too heavy, his fresh-fruit daiquiris go down perfectly on a hot summer evening.

Let the river calm you 

Cruise eastward down the Elbe on a historic steamboat in the direction of Pillnitz, passing wine slopes, meadows and villas along the way. This harmony of landscape and architecture has earned the Elbe Valley a Unesco designation. (Make sure you book the first of three daily departures, the earliest, for the 90-minute journey.)

Visit Pillnitz Castle

At Pillnitz Castle, spend the next hour exploring the castle grounds and landscaped gardens : this summer playground of the Saxon kings was modeled after Versailles. As you walk the grounds, make sure to pay your respects to the Grand Dame of Pillnitz, a Japanese camellia tree that has been protected and nurtured in this climate for 230 years running through an ingenious bit of engineering that has to be seen to be believed.

Have lunch at either the castle restaurant or at Wipplers, a small cafe that’s been operated by the same family for 100 years. Finish with a bang with a German-style dessert concoction, one with three or four scoops of ice cream piled with fresh fruit, chocolate and other toppings. 

Sunset at beer garden

Take the next boat back to town – or catch the 63 bus to wind through the small villages and charming old villas found between Pillnitz and Dresden. Loschwitz is an old fishing village that’s become an affluent residential area, where you can catch a suspended railway (the world’s oldest) or funicular to the top of the hill for sweeping valley views. From there, walk through the Weisser Hirsch neighborhood and its art nouveau villas, then catch tram 11 at Platteleite to Elbschlösser. Walk through the gardens to Lingner Terrace at Lingnerschloss, where a restaurant and beer garden overlooking the river offers fabulous sunset views.

In the evening, head back to Altstadt or Neustadt and take your pick from their many bars and restaurants.

Travel back in time to the "Cradle of Saxony"

Today, we head to the “Cradle of Saxony”: the medieval city of Meissen. En route, consider a stop at the fairy tale–like Moritzburg Castle . Built in 1542 on an artificial island in the middle of an artificial lake, this edifice was once the venue for hunting, drinking, feasting and recreated sea battles during the reign of Augustus the Strong, and was the last residence of the Saxon royal family before their 1945 abdication. (The family reportedly buried their treasures in nearby forests; while many hunts have taken place over the years, the Russian army long ago recovered all these valuables.) Today, the castle houses eclectic treasures, including one of the most important collections of hunting trophies in Europe, ornate gold-leather wallpapers and a bed and canopy decorated with millions of colored feathers. Budget 90 minutes for the visit of the castle and its grounds, then catch the direct onward bus to Meissen.

Learn about Meissen Manufaktur porcelain

If bypassing Moritzburg, catch the S-Bahn for the 35-minute ride to Meissen Triebischtal. Be sure to get a seat on the right side of the car, which will give you a clear view of Albrechtsburg Palace and the Gothic spires of Meissen Cathedral as the train crosses the Elbe

The centerpiece of your visit is the Meissen Manufaktur, where European hard-paste porcelain – invented in Dresden – is manufactured by hand to this day. Take an audio-guide tour of the demonstration workshops to see how painstakingly every piece is created, then walk through the museum , which showcases the stunning designs manufactured over 300 years. Top off your visit with a coffee and cake (we love the house cake with marzipan icing) at the cafe – all served on genuine Meissen porcelain, of course.

Lunch at Domkeller

A ride on the small city bus takes you through the town to the top of Castle Hill. Enjoy lunch on the terraces of the Domkeller (550 years old) or Burgkeller, both overlooking Meissen’s red rooftops.

Next, take a tour of Germany’s oldest residential castle, Albrechtsburg, built in 1471. The “HistoPad” offers interactive enhancements, recreating, for example, 15th-century table settings and costumes in the historic rooms. Next, stop into the adjacent Dom to marvel at the accomplishments of Gothic architects. Walk down the hill to Altmarkt, and pay a visit to the Frauenkirche , whose carillion is made from Meissen porcelain. Wander through the old town, with quaint homes largely dating from the Renaissance. 

Dinner at Vincenz Richter

Before your train ride back to Dresden, sit down to an early dinner at the romantic Vincenz Richter, a family-run restaurant that serves wine from its own vineyards nearby. If the weather is fair, request seating in the small courtyard – and ask to take a quick peep into the former dungeon, if possible.

 Sweeping landscapes and craggy rock formations

Today, the mountains are calling. It’s off to so-called “Saxon Switzerland,” a spectacular landscape of sandstone cliffs, mesas, gorge and rock formations that look like stone spires. Along almost 750 miles (1200km) of marked hiking trails and 27,000 climbing routes of all grades of difficulty, you can look out on magnificent vistas formed over millions of years.

Catch the S-Bahn 1 to Bahnhof Pirna, and connect to the bus to Bastei. From here it’s just a few minutes to several lookout points over the cliffs and the Elbe Valley; several hiking trails also begin or end here. After admiring the view, take the stone steps down to Bastei Bridge, created with manmade stone supports connecting naturally occurring rock formations. Further down is the entrance to the ruins of Neurathen Castle, a series of caves carved in the Middle Ages and connected today by shaky wooden bridges. Return to the top for lunch at the Panorama Restaurant, which has an almost 360° view of the landscape.

Tour the Königstein Fortress

We’ll carry on along the Elbe via the S-1 and shuttle buses to the invincible Königstein Fortress , built in the 13th century and one of the largest hilltop fortifications in Europe. Walk along the walls of the “Kings Rock” to take in the ever-changing views, then use the audio guide to learn about the fortress’ history and famous prisoners. Sit down to a simple German wurst and beer at the well-hidden Napoleon’s Kitchen, a mini beer garden that can be reached by walking southward along the ramparts, or sample typical German food at Zum Musketier, the cozy, historic inn looking out over the parade square in front of the citadel. 

It is time to head back to Dresden after a satisfying day of exploration, with a 40-minute train journey that runs along the Elbe and through its scenic valley. Once back in town, walk to the middle of Carola Bridge to enjoy a splendid night-time view of Dresden.

Only have a day in Dresden? Check out Seema's one-day itinerary for learning about Dresden. 

Explore related stories

Best in Travel - 2023

Nov 15, 2022 • 8 min read

Seema Prakash fell so in love with Dresden more than a decade ago, she moved here. She shows us a perfect day learning about Dresden.

Feb 29, 2024 • 2 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 24, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 15 min read

Aug 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 3, 2023 • 4 min read

Jul 30, 2023 • 5 min read

Apr 30, 2024 • 8 min read

• Biberach an der Riss
• Friedrichshafen
• Ludwigsburg
• Schwäbisch Hall
• Sigmaringen
• Villingen-Schwenningen
• Hohenzollern Castle
• Lichtenstein Castle
• Füssen
• Neuburg an der Donau
• Bad Tölz
• Berchtesgaden
• Eichstätt
• Garmisch-Partenkirchen
• Kochel am See
• Oberammergau
• Reit im Winkl
• Andechs Monastery
• Benediktbeuern Abbey
• Ettal Abbey
• Linderhof Castle
• Nymphenburg Palace
• Ottobeuren Abbey
• Lake Constance
• Starnberger See
• Altmühltal Nature Park
• Bavarian Forest National Park
• Fichtelgebirge
• Franconian Switzerland
• Karwendel Alpine Park
• Görlitz
• Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Schmalkalden
• Wartburg Castle
• Buchenwald Memorial Site
• Alpine Road
• Romantic Road
• Jakobsweg - Bavaria
• Mainau Island
• Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Thuringian Forest
• German Sights

Dresden, Germany

Where is dresden.

Dresden is a charming city on the Elbe river in eastern Germany. It is famed for its stunning architecture.

It is the capital of the state of Saxony , itself once an independent kingdom. Before German reunification, it was part of East Germany.

Dresden is also only a stone's throw away from the Czech Republic border, making it an excellent destination for exploring both countries.

A magnet for art lovers, it boasts treasures such as the Zwinger Museum complex and the Semper Opera House.

However, Dresden also has a sobering side. Much of the city was destroyed during World War II. The rebuilt Frauenkirche is the city's poignant symbol of resilience.

Advantages? Top-notch cultural attractions, a historic vibe with modern appeal, and easy access to other European cities.

Disadvantages? Large crowds during peak season, a sombre World War II history that isn't to everyone's liking, and winter can be quite cold.

Overall, Dresden's charm comes from this mix of history and modernity, culture and nature. It's a place where the fascinating past coexists with bustling life of a contemporary hub.

Why is Dresden worth visiting?

Here are a few reasons why Dresden is worth a visit:

• Baroque beauty : Experience Dresden's stunning architectural landscape, featuring centuries-old churches and palaces that tell their stories of the city's rich history.
• A green oasis : Wander through Dresden's lush parks and gardens, offering natural escapes within the city for picnics with families and friends or peaceful solitude.
• Art lover's delight : Dive into the world of masterpieces at renowned galleries like the Old Masters Picture Gallery, housing over 700 European works of art.
• Saxon Switzerland : Unleash your inner adventurer with a day trip to the breathtaking Saxon Switzerland National Park , where you'll witness outstanding rock formations, awe-inspiring vantage points, and idyllic scenery.

How to get to Dresden

Dresden international airport.

Dresden International Airport (DRS) serves as the primary airport for the city. Conveniently located just nine kilometres north of the city centre, it offers direct connections to destinations across Europe, such as the United Kingdom.

From the airport, you can easily take the S2 train line to Dresden Hauptbahnhof, the city's central train station.

Other airports near Dresden

Although the local airport is just outside the city, other more distant options may well prove to be more convenient.

Distance to Leipzig/Halle Airport: 124km Distance to Václav Havel Airport Prague: 136km Distance to Berlin Brandenburg Airport: 166km

Although the airports at Dresden and Leipzig do offer some European city destinations and carriers, the largest choice is going to be either at the airport in Prague or at the new airport at Berlin Brandenburg.

Train station in Dresden

Dresden Hauptbahnhof serves as the city's central train station. This well-connected hub will be your gateway to exploring the beautiful city. With frequent train services, you can:

• Travel to surrounding areas, such as Meissen , where the exquisite blue and white porcelain known as "Meissenware" is produced.
• Connect to major German cities like Berlin, Munich , and Hamburg.
• Enjoy convenient access to international destinations such as Prague, Vienna, and Budapest.

Dresden Hauptbahnhof is located near Prager Strasse, a bustling shopping district that makes for a great starting point for your Dresden adventure.

Where to stay in Dresden

When visiting Dresden, choosing the right area to stay in can significantly enhance your experience.

Dresden Altstadt is an excellent choice for first-time visitors. It's the historic centre of the city. You'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful architecture and popular tourist attractions.

Staying in Altstadt means you're within walking distance of key attractions, such as the Dresden Frauenkirche and Zwinger Palace. However, be aware that accommodation costs in this district tend to be higher.

Dresden Neustadt , on the north bank of the river Elbe, is the place for those in search of a lively atmosphere and local culture.

This hip neighbourhood is a haven for foodies and shoppers alike. Neustadt is an exciting place to be with its bustling nightlife, trendy bars and eclectic mix of shops.

Accommodation options range from budget hostels to boutique hotels, and public transport is easily accessible for exploring the rest of the city.

If you're interested in historic sites and walking access to attractions, Dresden Altstadt is the perfect base for you.

On the other hand, if you want to experience local culture, nightlife, and unique shopping opportunities, Dresden Neustadt is the ideal choice.

Dresden accommodation map

If you know when you are planning to go but haven't decided on accommodation, then use the map below to get an idea of which properties are available and to compare prices during the period you wish to travel.

Enter your proposed dates and use the '+' to zoom in on a location and reveal more properties. Click on the price above a property to see more information.

( Please note that this selection will also include some guesthouses, pensions and self-catering apartments for those who are interested in that form of accommodation !)

Check Dresden accommodation availability

If you know when you are planning to go but haven't decided on accommodation, then use the searchbox below to get an idea of which properties are available and to compare prices during the period you wish to travel.

History of Dresden

Dresden became a centre of culture and art under the rule of Augustus II and Augustus III in the 18th century.

As you walk through the cobbled streets of this beautiful baroque city, you'll notice the influence these rulers had on shaping its artistic landscape.

The legacy of Augustus II, also known as August the Strong, is reflected in Dresden's architectural gems.

He laid the foundations for a glorious era of artistic development with a keen eye and ambition to make his city an architectural marvel.

During the reign of Augustus III, the enlargement and enrichment of Dresden's art collections played a significant role in enhancing the city's reputation.

Many of the masterpieces now in the museums and galleries found their way into the hands of the Saxon monarch during this period.

One prominent figure of this era was Gottfried Semper. The famous architect left an everlasting mark on Dresden.

Semper contributed extensively to the design of iconic city landmarks, such as the Semperoper – Dresden's exquisite opera house – and the Zwinger – a stunning baroque palace and museum complex.

Dresden's Frauenkirche is another outstanding example of 18th-century architecture.

Destroyed during wartime, the reconstruction of the church stands as a testament to Dresden's love of its cultural heritage.

What to do in Dresden

Once known as the "Florence on the Elbe" for its striking baroque and rococo architecture, Dresden has gradually rebuilt itself since its devastation during World War II.

Now, the restored historical landmarks and breath-taking scenery give you a sense of the elegance and beauty that have been synonymous with this city for centuries.

Connecting Dresden to its neighbours, a well-developed transport network enables you to reach various cities and landmarks with ease. Don't be surprised if you're inspired to explore further afield; the spectacular rock formations of the nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park make for an exhilarating day trip.

In this section, we'll take a look at some of the must-see attractions and cover the Dresden Welcome Card programme that provides discounts and free or reduced access to various attractions.

Dresden Welcome Cards

Investing in a Dresden Welcome Card can enhance your visit to this beautiful city. These cards are available in three different types: Museums Card, City Card, and Regio Card. Each card provides unique benefits to make your tour more enjoyable and budget-friendly.

• Museums Card : This card grants you free admission to numerous museums and exhibitions, allowing you to explore the city's rich history and culture, including the famous Dresden State Art Collection.
• City Card : The City Card offers free admission to certain attractions and also includes the local public transport, ensuring that you can easily travel between the stunning landmarks throughout your visit.
• Regio Card : The Regio Card offers the same benefits as the City Card, with the added bonus of extending the discounts and free access to attractions in the surrounding area.

Attractions in Dresden

Zwinger palace and dresden castle.

A visit to Dresden would be incomplete without exploring the magnificent Zwinger Palace and Dresden Castle (also known as the Royal Palace). These architectural marvels are home to several museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery and the renowned Green Vault (Grünes Gewölbe), where you can admire a vast collection of precious art and artefacts.

Dresden Cathedral and Semper Opera House

As you wander through the city, be sure to stop by the imposing Dresden Cathedral and marvel at its intricate detailing. Also, take a moment to appreciate the Semper Opera House, an architectural masterpiece that hosts outstanding performances throughout the year.

Brühl's Terrace, Augustus Bridge and the Japanese Palace

From Brühl's Terrace, you can enjoy breathtaking views across the Elbe River and the Old Town, while the Augustus Bridge offers a fantastic photographic vantage point. Nearby, you'll find the Japanese Palace, housing the exquisite Dresden Porcelain Collection, a testament to the city's artistic heritage.

Grosser Garten

Take a break from the hubbub of city life and spend some time in the tranquil Grand Garden. The palace park is the perfect setting for an unhurried stroll.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

The Regio Card is a help for some of the local day trips near Dresden, but visitors who are planning to travel a little further afield might want to look at the Sachsen-Ticket from the German rail service (www.bahn.de). This offers a whole day's travel on regional rail services for up to five adults.

One of the top attractions near Dresden is the Saxon Switzerland National Park. This incredible park features unique rock formations, dense forests, and picturesque valleys. You can spend an entire day discovering the beauty of this national park, taking in its natural wonders.

Within the Saxon Switzerland National Park, the Bastei Bridge is a must-visit landmark. This impressive sandstone bridge connects two rocky cliffs and offers astonishing views of the surrounding landscapes. Be sure to have your camera ready, as you'll want to capture the magical scenery from this vantage point.

Downstream along the Elbe is the town of Meissen , world-famous for its porcelain. Visitors can also sample local wine from the vineyards along the river, while Meissen Cathedral and Albrechtsburg castle are impressive historic sights.

A little further away, visitors can take a trip to the Polish border and the historic town of Görlitz , featured in the Wes Anderson film 'The Grand Budapest Hotel'.

Events and Festivals

While visiting Dresden, you're in for a treat with its calendar of cultural events and festivals.

In spring, the International Dixieland Festival Dresden is a must-see, typically occurring between 14th and 21st of May. This jazz-centred event fills the city with vibrant tunes and performances, offering a unique experience for all ages.

Summer months bring the Film Nights on the banks of the Elbe, allowing you to catch exciting screenings under the open sky. Additionally, the Dresden Stadtfest city festival or “Canaletto” takes place on the third weekend of August, celebrating the city's foundation. Expect to see thousands of artists and attracting over half a million visitors with this lively event.

As the winter season approaches, you'll find the Dresden Striezel Market . Regarded by many as the oldest Christmas market in Germany, it dates back almost 600 years.

Beyond festivals, you'll want to pay a visit to a performance at the stunning Semper Opera House. As part of the Zwinger complex, this magnificent opera house offers a glimpse into Saxony's rich artistic heritage.

Other towns and cities on the Elbe river

Meissen is a small town in eastern Germany, known for its porcelain production. The Meissen Porcelain Manufactory remains one of its main attractions. The Albrechtsburg castle overlooking the Elbe river is another major historical sight. Meissen is the centre of a winegrowing area with the vineyards along the Elbe valley.

Lutherstadt Wittenberg is a town in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, about 90 kilometers southwest of Berlin. The town is famous for its association with the Protestant Reformation, as Martin Luther lived and taught here for much of his life. Lutherstadt Wittenberg is home to numerous historic sites, including Luther's House.

Dresden Tourist Office

The Dresden Tourist Office is centrally located near the Frauenkirche in the old town. The office is open seven days a week, with slightly shorter opening times on Sundays.

There is also a tourist office branch in Dresden central train station. Website: www.dresden.de

© GermanSights.com

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

What to buy in Indonesia 2024? — Top +9 famous gifts,…

What to buy in Kyoto 2024? — 31+ must-buy Kyoto souvenirs,…

What to buy in India 2024? — 29+ best gifts from…

What to buy in Korea 2024? — Top +23 cheap, famous…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

Must eat in Hong Kong — 7+ must eat & must…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Dresden travel blog — the fullest dresden travel guide for first-timers.

Dresden is one of the oldest cities in Germany, where you can find both peace and as well as bustling of a modern city. However, Dresden is still a quite new tourist destination for many people, so the information about this tourist destination has not been updated much. So, in this article we will share with you the most complete Dresden travel information and guide and useful tips.

• What to buy in Germany 2024? — 19+ best gifts, souvenirs & best things to buy in Germany
• Zugspitze blog — The fullest Zugspitze travel guide for a spectacular Zugspitze trekking trip
• Frankfurt travel blog — The fullest Frankfurt travel guide for first-timers
• Bonn travel blog — The fullest Bonn travel guide & what to do in Bonn Germany
• Munich travel blog — The fullest Munich travel guide for first-timers

So, is Dresden worth visiting, how to visit Dresden, what to do in Dresden and how to plan a budget trip to Dresden for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Dresden travel blog (Dresden blog) with the fullest Dresden travel guide (guide to Dresden, Dresden tourist guide, Dresden city guide, Dresden guide) from how to get to Dresden, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Dresden to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Overview of Dresden (#dresden travel blog)

Dresden is an ancient and long-standing city with a history of hundreds of years of formation and development of Germany. This city is considered as the capital of the state of Saxony (German Sachsen) located in the eastern Germany. The city of Dresden was founded in 1206 and it was formerly the place where many Saxon kings lived and worked. Dresden is not only blessed with a beautiful, poetic and peaceful natural setting, but also possesses a rich history, culture and architecture of Germany.

The Dresden is part of the The Saxon Triangle – a polycentric metropolitan region. During the medieval period, the city of Dresden was the living and working place of the Kings of Saxony, so Dresden is a city with a rich history of culture, architecture and art in Germany.

Since Dresden was once the living and working place of the kings of Saxony, this is not only a city with poetic natural scenery, but also has a rich history of culture, architecture and painting. Dresden consists of two main areas, Altstadt (old town) and Neustadt (new town) divided by the gentle winding Elbe river. While Altstadt has an ancient look with many old architectural works, historical evidences through the kings while on the other side of the river, the Neustadt puts on a colorful and bustling appearance, symbolizing a modern, young and vibrant life.

Dresden is the second largest city by the Elbe after Hamburg. The majority of Dresden’s population lives in the Elbe Valley, a large area, although the eastern Elbe city’s sparseness lies in the West Lusatian hills and the Uplands (the westernmost part of the Sudetes) and thus in Lusatia, while many western counties of the Elbe lie in the land of the Ore Mountains as well as in the valleys of rivers flowing through Dresden, the longest ones are Weißeritz and Lockwitzbach.

Something interesting facts about Dresden

• King August der Starke (Augustus II), who left a legacy of the city of Dresden for our posterity today, was an all-rounder. As a lover of beauty, he patronized all the arts, from painting, to music, to sculpture… Thought such a person must be a white-faced scholar. But his nickname was der Starke (the Strong). Legend has it that with his bare hands, he was able to break a cast iron horseshoe. Currently in the museum Dresden also displays a collection of horseshoes that he broke.
• If you have the opportunity to celebrate the new year in Germany, you will have the chance to enjoy a wonderful light party. On the night of December 31, all residents are allowed to set off fireworks. The people of Dresden often flocked to the banks of the Elbe River to “shoot”. There will be no one with a beautiful place, no one with a bad place to stand and watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks, because the whole people and the whole city will light up fireworks and celebrate the coming New Year together. Right on New Year’s Eve, the city’s sky suddenly lit up, fireworks exploded everywhere, firecracker smoke created a mist over the Elbe River. There’s nothing more fun on New Year’s Day than the smell of firecracker smoke.

When to come?

The climate in Dresden is also divided into 4 seasons of the year: Spring – Summer – Autumn – Winter, with warm summers and cold winters. Winter in this city is quite cold, average temperatures about -6 to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Therefore, if you want to experience winter activities here such as: Ice skating, skiing… then maybe winter is the perfect time.

In addition, July is the peak tourism season of Dresden, because at this time the warm temperatures are around 17 to 20 degrees Celsius, very suitable for the journey to explore the city of Dresden.

How to get to Dresden? (#dresden travel guide)

By plane (#dresden travel blog).

To getting to Dresden, the plane is the most common means of transportation, because it is safe and fast to travel. However, there are currently no airlines that operate direct flights to Dresden from Vietnam, so you will have to transit at least one point. Airfares range from 500-700 USD/one-way.

To hunt for cheap flight tickets, we recommend that you choose to fly at low hours such as night, choose to fly on weekdays and buy tickets in advance 2 to 4 months to get the best price. Avoid traveling on holidays… the price will be greatly increased.

To hunt cheap airfare as well as best routes you should go to Google Flights , Kayak or Skyscanner .

Dresden’s main airport is Dresden Airport (IATA code: DRS), located in the north of the city. To move to the city center, the simplest and most economical way is to take the S-Bahn train number S2. It takes 12 minutes from the airport to Dresden-Neustadt station and 20 minutes to Dresden Hauptbahnhof central station. One-way fare available for all Dresden public transport around €2.30. You can also use a €6 day pass to take the S2 train to get to the airport.

Dresden is located between the railway line from Berlin to Prague. The city is about two hours from both capitals by train. Trains usually return to the central station Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Train tickets can be found for around €35 to Berlin and €20 to Prague.

By bus (#dresden travel blog)

It’s probably the most economical way to get to Dresden. From Prague or Berlin by Flixbus ( www.flixbus.com ) to Dresden takes more than two hours, and the fare ranges from €10-15/one way. The bus will park at Dresden-Neustadt station or Dresden Hauptbahnhof station.

How to get around in Dresden? (#dresden guide)

The public transport system in Dresden includes trains to neighboring cities (Schnellbahn, or S-Bahn), trams (Straßenbahn), buses, boats crossing the Elbe river… Most trams run through night. For tourists who want to visit the central area, if you go to Hauptbahnhof Dresden station, you can walk to Bahnhof Nord metro station at the north exit of the station, then take one of the number 8, 9 trams to get to Theather Platz station. This is the station right next to the Semperoper theater, then walk to visit the surrounding spots. Regarding transportation tickets, they can be divided into the following main categories, you can refer to here .

In European cities in general or Dresden in particular, the public transport system is very developed, so traveling is extremely convenient and economical. Here are the popular public transport you can refer to to get around the city:

People in Dresden mainly use trams because there are many lines, so you can go to every neighborhood. Tram operating time starts from 6 am to 8 pm, there will be 1 trip every 10 minutes. After 8pm the waiting time will be a little longer and from 11pm you will only take the night routes with a “GuteNachtLinie” sign at each stop. A trip of four stops or less costs €1.70, a 24-hour ticket is €4.50.

Buses in the city have the same schedule as trams, in addition, there are also dedicated buses to take visitors to attractions such as hop-on-hop-off buses . Bus fares are also quite cheap, averaging about 0.5 Euro. Each route has different prices and payment methods. So you can pay by card or bring cash for easy payment!

When coming to Dresden you should try the experience of cycling to feel the atmosphere and slowly admire the city scenery. Bicycle rental prices usually range from 10 to 13 Euro/day.

In addition to the means listed above, if you have a good travel budget, you can choose to travel by taxi because the cost will be much higher. On average, visitors need to pay 8.45 to 49 Euros/person/day when taking a taxi in Dresden.

Where to go and what to do in Dresden? (#dresden blog)

Furstenzug (#dresden blog).

Address: Augustusstraße 1, 01067 Dresden, Germany Hours: Open 24 hours

King August der Starke can be said to be an extremely artistic lover. He not only loves painting, music, sculpture but also many other subjects. During his reign, he built the Furstenzug wall. This is the largest porcelain mural in the world. If you have the opportunity to travel to Dresden, you must not miss the opportunity to see this wall. It will surely be a memorable experience.

Coming here, you will be able to see with your own eyes a huge painting made from 25,000 porcelain pieces, perfected by the hands of many artisans. This is a work of both artistic value and historical value, because it was completed in 1907 with an age of more than 100 years. This artistic painting is the image of the lords and kings of Saxony during the nearly 800 years they ruled this land.

Zwinger Palace

Address: Sophienstraße, 01067 Dresden, Germany Hours: 6 AM–8 PM/Thursday: 6 AM–10 PM

Setting foot in Dresden without exploring the Zwinger palace is a big omission. This complex is located right next to the Semperoper theater, so you can completely combine it with visiting the theater and the palace. With a unique design, bold Baroque and Rococo styles, along with sophisticated design, bring the most spectacular beauty to Zwinger Palace. It is known that the palace was formerly the living and working place of King August der Starke and until now, it is used as a great work, a museum where many precious and valuable works of art are displayed.

This palace was formerly where King August der Starke lived and worked. Up to the present time, Zwinger Palace is considered as a great work, a museum displaying countless rare works of art.

Address: Theaterplatz 2, 01067 Dresden, Germany

Located right next to Zwinger Palace is also an extremely famous architecture in Dresden that is the Semperoper opera house. This theater is considered one the most famous opera houses in the world, built in 1878. Many famous operas are composed by legendary composers such as Richard Wagne or Richard Strauss were performed here for the first time. Inside, most of the decorations are gilded very delicately. In particular, this place had to be rebuilt for the third time after being destroyed twice due to war.

Coming here, you not only have the opportunity to discover the unique design and splendor of the theater, but also watch with your own eyes many art shows, wonderful opera performances from many high-profiles artists here.

The Cathedral Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche)

Address: Frauenplatz 12, 80331 München, Germany

There is one place to visit that any visitor to Dresden cannot ignore is the cathedral of Frauenkirche. This church is considered a symbol of the city of Dresden. In 1945, after a fierce bombing, the church was completely destroyed. However, in 2006, the city government restored this church on the occasion of the 800th anniversary of the founding of Dresden. Standing on the top of the cathedral, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful city of Dresden from above. However, to get to this highest point, visitors will have to buy tickets at the price of 8 Euros/ticket.

As noted above, the Wettin kings were originally Protestant. In 1697, King August der Starke, in addition to the king of Saxony, was elected as a king of Poland. Catholicism is the national religion of Poland. The condition for August der Starke to receive the Polish crown was that he had to convert. The kings who succeeded him built the Katholische Hofkirche church to follow the Christianity they had just converted. The church is located right next to the royal palace of Residenzschloss, there is a bridge from the castle to the church dedicated to the king every time he goes to pray.

Grosser Garten

Address: Hauptallee 10, 01219 Dresden, Germany Hours: Open 24 hours

Currently, Grosser Garten (The Grand Garden of Dresden) is the largest park in Dresden. It was built in the French Baroque style in 1676 and has been open to the public since 1814. In addition, the park also houses a Zoo and Botanical Garden with more than 10,000 species arranged geographically to explore the world of plant life.

Is a park designed in the baroque style in the center of Dresden, with an area of ​​about 1.8 km². This place used to be a summer vacation destination, hosting banquets for royals and dukes in the past.

The Dresden Zoo

It is located to the south of the Großer Garten, opened in 1861 and is the fourth oldest zoo in Germany. About 3,000 animals of nearly 400 species from all over the world are raised and cared for here. Through the large glass panels, visitors can observe swimming Humboldt penguins, ring-tailed lemurs as well as Tundra birds. When you get to see animals in person that were previously only seen on TV, this will definitely be a great experience for those who love animals or families with children.

Dresden Castle (Dresdner Schloss)

Address: Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden, Germany Hours: 10 AM–6 PM/Tuesday: Closed

Next to the Hofkirche church is the  Residenzschloss (Dresdner Schloss), the residence of the King and the royal family. From a distance, visitors can immediately identify this building with a clock on the wall in blue and red. Since 1918, when the king was no longer living in it, this building has been used as a museum. Dresdner Schloss was heavily destroyed during World War II and still has areas under repair. There are currently five museums in the castle: Historisches Grünes Gewölbe, Neues Grünes Gewölbe, Münzkabinett, Kupferstich-Kabinett and Türckische Cammer.

Grünes Gewölbe Museum

The truly impressive among the museums in Dresden Caslte is probably the Grünes Gewölbe (Green Vault), roughly translated as treasure museum. It displays the treasures of the Wettin family. This treasure has both custom-made items, some items are gifts and tributes from other countries. But to sum up in one sentence is both epic and sophisticated.

The museum holds more than 4,000 precious artifacts, making it one of the largest treasure museums in Europe. In particular, the most prominent is the work “Golden Coffee Set” made by the famous royal jeweler of that time – Johann Melchior Dinglinger.

Address: Weißeritzstr. 3, 01067 Dresden, Germany Hours: 12–11 PM

If you like the weird, Yenidze is an old cigarette factory but has the same architecture as a mosque. It takes 10 minutes to walk from the center of Altstadt to here.

Brühlsche Terrasse and on the banks of the River Elbe

Goodbye Dresdener Schloss we have to navigate from the pier again. Head to the riverside, past the Hofkirche church, up the steps and admire the romantic Elbe bank or look back at the places you have passed. Looking back at the square in front of the Semperoper, this terraced position also gives very good photos. The whole square that stretches for about 500 meters by the river is called Brühlsche Terrasse. If you stand on this balcony, you will see right next to it are 2 bridges spanning the Elbe River. The bridge closest to the Semperoper is Ausgustusbrücke, and the other bridge to the right is Carolabrücke. Standing from the two bridges looking back, visitors can see the whole view of this beautiful city next to this river. There are no words to describe its poetic beauty, even the best photograph!

This is one of the famous sights of the city of Dresden. In the summer, this place organizes movie screenings, outdoor activities for the people, and concerts.

Visiting Dresden’s legendary historic river is an experience that any foreign tourist must try when coming here. Currently, Dresden still has 9 of the oldest and largest steamboats in the world operating to bring visitors to enjoy the city scenery.

Saxon Switzerland National Park

Located just 40 minutes from Dresden by train, Saxon Switzerland National Park is extremely large with a total area of ​​about 36,000 hectares. There are forests and strangely shaped sandstone blocks, which have existed since the Cretaceous period. Besides, the Bastei stone bridge and Königstein fortress are also tourist attractions when visiting this large area.

Moritzburg Castle

Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg, Germany Hours: 10 AM–5:30 PM/Monday: Closed

Located about 15 km northwest of Dresden, the castle is symmetrically designed, surrounded by an artificial lake. With stunning views in all four seasons from spring to winter, this castle was once chosen as the setting for the movie “Three Nuts for Cinderella”.

What to eat?

Dresdner christstollen potato soup (potato soup-saxon).

Among the delicious dishes in Dresden, potato soup Dresdner Christstollen is the most popular. With a simple recipe, using main ingredients from: Potatoes, onions, green vegetables… and some typical spices of the city, it creates an irresistible delicious taste. In addition, many places also change the dish to refresh the taste, so they often add: smoked meat, sausage… or even plums, pomegranate seeds…

Dresdner Sauerbraten mit Rotkraut

Continuing another  famous dish in Dresden that is beef dish Dresdner Sauerbraten mit Rotkraut – the pride in German cuisine. To prepare this dish, people use fresh beef, soaked in herbs and malt liquor, bay leaves, with spices,… for a few days. Then take out the meat and fry it lightly with butter and put it in the oven to cook. This beef dish will be more attractive when served with dumplings and red radish.

Holunderbeerensuppe Soup

If you want to experience typical Dresden cuisine, you can’t miss Holunderbeerensuppe. To prepare this dish, German people often use the juice of elderberries, combined with lemon juice and spices. After being processed, people often eat Holunderbeerensuppe with bread and ice cream to increase the delicious.

Bread is the most popular and loved food in Germany. Therefore, dishes with bread, especially Fettbemme are always the first choice when discovering cuisine in Dresden. The Fettbemme is quite simple, just slices of rye bread, served with pork or beef, along with cucumbers. It all comes together with a great taste.

Besides the dishes listed above, you can enjoy some other equally delectable dishes such as: Quarkkeulchen, Eierschecke cake, Dresdner Christstollen cake…

Where to eat?

The most famous beer bar in Dresden, if you want to make sure you have a seat, you should book in advance. The beer is very good because the restaurant is home-made, but the most outstanding is probably the restaurant’s crispy baked pork leg. The outer skin is thin and crispy, the inside is still sweet and tender. Order this dish with beer and you will find it is perfectly match. The shop has three locations in Dresden.

• Watzke Ball & Brauhaus Kötschenbroder Straße 1, 01139 Dresden 0351 85 29 20
• Watzke am Ring Dr.-Külz-Ring 9, 01067 Dresden 0351 20 52 43 81
• Watzke am Goldenen Reiter Hauptstraße 1, 01067 Dresden 0351 81 06 820

If you want to eat fast and cheap in the downtown area, you can find a restaurant in the commercial area of Altmarkt Galerie. The Turkish community in Germany is relatively large, I always have the feeling that eating Turkish Doner Kebab in Germany is better, has a clearer, richer flavor than other places in Europe. I rate the Oliveria bread shop in the Altmarkt shopping center very well.

Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Super 8 by Wyndham Dresden ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hyperion Hotel Dresden am Schloss ( Agoda , Booking )
• Star G Hotel Premium Dresden Altmarkt ( Agoda , Booking )
• NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt ( Agoda , Booking )
• ibis budget Dresden City ( Agoda , Booking )
• Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Suitess ( Agoda , Booking )
• Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden ( Agoda , Booking )
• Leonardo Hotel Dresden Altstadt ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Dresden on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Dresden you can refer to

• Dresden River Sightseeing Cruise
• Dresden Old Town Walking Tour
• Dresden Day Tour from Prague
• Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park Day Tour from Dresden
• Dresden Semperoper Tour with Admission Ticket
• Dresden Semperoper Guided Tour and Royal Palace Admission Ticket
• Dresden: River Sightseeing Boat Cruise (Line 72)
• Dresden: The Original Night Watchman Tour in Lantern Light
• Dresden: Semperoper Tickets and Guided Tour
• Bohemia and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip From Dresden
• Dresden: City & Semperoper Guided Walking Tour
• Dresden: Gala Concert in the Dresden Zwinger
• Dresden: Guided Tour of the Church of Our Lady
• Dresden: Elbe River Cruise to Pillnitz Castle (Line 61)
• Dresden: Semperoper and Old Town Tour
• Dresden: 1-Day Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town
• Tickets to the Meissen Porcelain Factory

After the trip, Dresden from a strange place immediately became one of the most impressive cities I have ever had the opportunity to explore. There are few cities in Germany that bring a harmonious combination of contemplation (Altstadt) with excitement (Neustadt), between vast nature and sophisticated and civilized man-made structures like Dresden!

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

What to buy in indonesia 2024 — top +9 famous gifts, souvenirs & best things to buy in indonesia, what to buy in kyoto 2024 — 31+ must-buy kyoto souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in kyoto, what to buy in india 2024 — 29+ best gifts from india & best things to buy in india, what to buy in korea 2024 — top +23 cheap, famous & best things to buy in korea.

What to buy in USA 2024? — 17+ must buy in USA & best things to buy in USA

What to buy in Italy 2024? — 19+ top souvenirs & best things to buy in Italy

What to buy in Guangzhou 2024? — 11+ best things to buy in Guangzhou & best shopping places in Guangzhou

What to buy in Tibet 2024? — Top 9+ tibet souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Tibet

What to buy in Turkey 2024? — Top 26+ must-buy & best things to buy in Turkey

Editor picks.

What to buy in Indonesia 2024? — Top +9 famous gifts,...

What to buy in Kyoto 2024? — 31+ must-buy Kyoto souvenirs,...

What to buy in India 2024? — 29+ best gifts from...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA 2024? — 17+ must buy in...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

What to buy in Korea 2024? — Top +23 cheap, famous...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1461
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 208
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

results Unfortunately, we couldn't find any results for you.

${doc.title}

${doc.teaser}

Saxony is looking forward to welcoming you!

Recommended by our holiday experts

Booking hotline: +49 (0)351 491700

Planning tips

Current weather in Saxony

Weather tips

The most beautiful hiking tours

The best bad weather tips

• Tours & round trips
• Historic means of transport
• Museums and exhibitions
• Music and theatre
• Caspar David Friedrich
• 125 years of Erich Kästner
• Outdoor fun
• Discover the wine region
• Restaurants and cafés
• Cycling tours

Top highlights

Excursions for the whole family

250 years of Caspar David Friedrich

Event highlights 2024

Tourist information centres

• Calendar of events
• Press releases
• Mediaserver
• Strategic basics
• Market and trend research
• Convention Service
• Marketing consulting
• Influencers and multipliers
• Online Marketing
• Fairs, workshops and events
• Inspiration

#VisitDresden #DresdenElbland

Culture nature enjoyment.

Ideally everything!

Dresden Elbland, the triple stroke of luck. For cultural travellers as a single, huge stage. For nature lovers, a paradise full of discoveries and insider tips. For pleasure travellers with everything their heart desires - the many wineries alone are worth more than one trip. And if you can't make up your mind? Then you'll find the perfect mix of everything here. Why not go on a voyage of discovery right now!

Find out here where you can see the real spots of Romanticism and what events are waiting for you in Dresden Elbland for the Caspar David Friedrich Year!

50 museums with great exhibitions in Dresden

Over 1,500 passionate winegrowers.

Viticulture in Dresden Elbland is characterised by many passionate small winegrowers. Around 1,500 winegrowers press the more than 60 grape varieties grown here.

Discover Dresden Elbland

Inspiration for your holiday

Highlights in Dresden

Family holiday

Tips for family excursions

Cycling and hiking holiday

Routes and tips

Culture trip

Discover cultural highlights

Culinary trip

Inspiration for connoisseurs

Travelling to Dresden Elbland

Dresden Elbland can be reached from all directions . Climate-friendly and comfortable by train, individually by car, cheaply by long-distance bus - and of course also by plane. You are also welcome to use the timetable information of the Upper Elbe Transport Association to travel comfortably within the region by public transport.

The ICE, IC and EC trains take you directly to Dresden. And by local transport to the Elbland region.

Several connections, e.g. with Flixbus, lead to the Elbe. Please check available seats in good time.

There are two long-distance bus stops:

• Dresden Hbf, Bayrische Straße 2, 01069 Dresden
• Dresden Neustadt, Hansastraße 4, 01097 Dresden

Three motorways - the A4, A13 and A17 - lead to the Saxon state capital. From Magdeburg/Leipzig, the A14 motorway leads to the A4.

We recommend that day visitors use the park-and-ride facilities - with collective parking spaces outside the city centre and direct access to bus, S-Bahn or tram services.

Car park finder

If you are looking for parking in the city, you will find all options in the interactive car park finder of the city of Dresden. Practical: filtered by location, currently free and soon-to-be-occupied parking spaces are displayed, as are closed car parks.

Charging stations for electric cars

A well-developed charging infrastructure is being created throughout the city. Get an overview for your e-planning here.

The airport is located just 9 kilometres north of the city centre. From the S-Bahn station at the airport, line 2 takes you to the city centre in just 20 minutes.

Travelling via Berlin-Brandenburg (BER): A new Intercity connection takes guests from Berlin to Dresden quickly and without changing trains in 90 minutes. The modern Intercity double-decker trains run every two hours - for connections to international and intercontinental direct flights.

It appears that you are using Microsoft Internet Explorer as your web browser to access our site.

For reasons of functionality and security, we recommend that you use a current web browser such as Firefox , Chrome , Safari , Opera , or Edge . Internet Explorer does not display all the content of our website correctly and does not offer all its functions.

Free Walking Tour Dresden

Explore dresden like a local.

Select your tour

We offer tours in:

Frequently Asked Questions

+49 1577 2686071

[email protected], matej eber, peterssteinweg 14 04107 leipzig.