Best things to do in Dresden
The beautiful Saxon capital so ruthlessly destroyed in 1945 is now rebuilt and thriving. After marvelling at the glorious architecture and dazzling artistry, go barhopping in one of the most enjoyable Szene neighbourhoods in Germany.
Viewpoints and panoramas
Brühl's Terrace: Acclaimed as the “Balcony of Europe,” this elevated riverside belvedere provides views from 15m above river level – all in all the best promenade in town.
Frauenkirche Dome: A separate entrance at the rear provides access to the tower whose windy balcony provides unrivalled views over the city and river.
The best districts
Altstadt (Old Town): The heart of Dresden’s cultural life is the south-bank Altstadt, packed with historic buildings and museums, tour groups and cafés.
Neustadt (New Town): Across the Elbe River, the north-bank Neustadt is the best bar district south of Berlin and has a young multicultural population for whom the historical city is just that – history.
Museums
Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister: The big draw of the Zwinger’s three collections is the Saxon Electors’ exquisite collection of old masters, which includes the seven Dresden scenes by Canaletto.
Grüne Gewölbe: One of the most sumptuous treasuries on the planet, these fancies are a legacy of Augustus the Strong – a real-life Ali Baba’s cave of gold, silver, diamonds, ivory and mother-of-pearl craftsmanship.
Parks and gardens
Grosser Garten: Dresden’s largest park, the Grosser rolls out a carpet of greenery. Its origins are as a pleasure garden of the ruling House of Wettin – a place for such idle pursuits as games, theatre or hunting – and it was laid out accordingly in formal Baroque style until the switch to the current naturalistic parkland in vogue in the late 18th century.
Historical monuments
Frauenkirche: No monument is so potent a metaphor for reborn Dresden, designed both as Germany’s largest Protestant church and a piece of one-upmanship over the nearby Catholic Hofkirche.
Zwinger Palace: The great glory of Baroque Dresden, this is a masterpiece of architecture. Inside, you’ll find museums like the Old Masters Picture Gallery, featuring works by Raphael, Rembrandt and Titian.
Day trips in the area
Saxon Switzerland National Park: Spectacular views and sandstone massifs in the most scenic corner of Saxony, best savoured on a week-long walk that has been voted the most beautiful in Germany, but which can be sampled on a day trip from Dresden.
Meissen: Never mind Europe’s first and finest porcelain factory, Meissen’s picture-book-pretty Altstadt is idyllic.
Activities for families in Dresden
Few cities in Germany are as kid-friendly as Dresden, particularly when it comes to museums, but there’s so much else to enjoy here for those with little ones.
Train rides: A miniature steam train, the Dresdener Parkeisenbahn, is operated and staffed largely by children (though adults drive the trains) and in GDR days was a “pioneer railway” where kids could experience working on a railway – an idea that originated in the USSR and spread throughout Eastern Europe.
Aquariums and zoos: Although small by German standards, the zoo is still home to over 1,500 animals and offers a fantastic day out for families - highlights include the elephant enclosure and petting zoo.
River trips: Dresden is home to the oldest and biggest paddle steamer fleet in the world: Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt runs nine historic wheel steamers making their way up and down the river past lovely scenery. Summer (obviously) is best for a nostalgic Elbe river ride.
Free things to do in Dresden
Exploring Dresden doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of free things to do that allow you to soak up the city’s beauty and history without spending a euro.
Free museums: You can visit Brühl's Terrace, the gardens of Pillnitz Palace, and the interior of the Frauenkirche without spending a penny. It’s also free to enter the Zwinger Palace’s magnificent courtyard and view the enchanting Nymphenbad fountain at the rear.
Explore by tram: Hop on tram number 4 or 6, both of which pass by many of Dresden’s landmarks - this is a terrific, budget-friendly way to see the city, particularly if you’re short on time.
Free events: Dresden hosts several free open-air concerts and festivals throughout the summer. Check out the Elbhangfest, a festival celebrating art, culture, and local traditions.
Nature and outdoor activities in Dresden
The city and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities - from gentle walks to more adventurous pursuits - that make the most of the beautiful Saxony countryside.
Hiking: One classic hiking route is the 115km Malerweg (Painter Route), overnighting in tourist-friendly villages along the way. There are also countless day hikes, easily reached by train from Dresden, such as Königstein to Rathen via Lilienstein (7km), through woods and open vistas.
Watersports: The Elbe River is a fantastic outlet for anyone wanting to get out on the water. Several companies in Dresden offer stand-up paddleboards for hire, as well as guided tours for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Cycling: The Elbe River cycling path runs for hundreds of kilometres, and whilst it may not be possible (or wise) to do the entire stretch, the section through Dresden is particularly delightful.
