dresden day tour

Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Tours from Dresden

Embark on unforgettable journeys with our Dresden day trips ! Explore the magnificent landscapes of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Parks , marveling at natural wonders like the iconic Bastei Bridge , the awe-inspiring Pravcicka Gate , and the mysterious Tisa Rocks Labyrinth . Book you hassle-free adventure today!

Most popular Dresden Tours

Best of Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland Day Tour

Bastei bridge - Pravcicka gate - Tisa Rocks Labyrinth

•  11 hours |  12 km
• From €129 per person

Custom Day Trips to National park

Create Your Own Day Trip According to Your Preferences

•  up to 12 hours
• From €499 per group

Bastei Bridge with Boat Trip and Lunch One Day Tour

Family friendly 1 day tour for hiking beginners and children

•  9 hours |  6 km

Other Tours from Dresden

Escape the City! Easy Hiking Tour

A relaxing guided one day tour with wonderful views

•  10 hours |  10 km

Dresden-Prague One-way Sightseeing Journey

Transform your boring travel into an exciting adventure

•  7 hours
• From €449 per group

Königstein Christmas market & Bastei Bridge Tour

Winter wonderland at ‘Fairytale’ Christmas markets

•  9 h |  3 km

Why Embark on a Day Tour from Dresden to Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland?

A Natural Wonderland Awaits You

Nestled on the border between Germany and the Czech Republic, the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park is a testament to Mother Nature’s artistry. Imagine towering sandstone formations, lush greenery, and meandering rivers creating a symphony of colors and textures that captivate the soul. This is where fairy tales come alive, where every step reveals a new wonder waiting to be explored.

Iconic Landmarks Beckon

• Bastei Bridge : Picture yourself standing atop this awe-inspiring bridge, gazing out over a breathtaking panorama. The dramatic cliffs, the Elbe River winding below, and the lush forests - it’s a view that will etch itself into your memory forever.
• Pravcicka Gate : Venture through this natural sandstone arch, Europe’s largest, and feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The sheer size and intricate patterns of the rock formations will leave you in awe.
• Tisa Rocks Labyrinth : Get lost (in the best way!) amidst the mysterious rock formations of Tisa. Wander through narrow passages, discover hidden nooks, and let your imagination run wild. It’s a playground for explorers of all ages.

What Sets Our Dresden One Day Tours Apart?

Unforgettable experiences in small groups.

Skip the crowded tours and enjoy a personalized experience with our small group tours . Our passionate and knowledgeable guides will share captivating stories and hidden gems, transforming your trip into an adventure you'll cherish forever.

Leave the Logistics to Us

Relax and focus on creating memories! We provide convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off in Dresden, eliminating any transportation woes. Savor delicious Czech lunches at local restaurants and refreshing drinks throughout the day, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the National Parks.

Crafting Your Perfect Adventure

Looking for a specific hike or interested in a cultural immersion experience? Saxon Tours offers the flexibility to tailor your day trip to your interests, ensuring a tour that perfectly matches your desires.

Practical Information for an Unforgettable Day Trip from Dresden

Logistics and comfort.

We understand the importance of a seamless travel experience. From convenient transportation options to comfortable arrangements, our commitment to excellence ensures that your day trip is free from hassles. Relax and immerse yourself in the wonders without worrying about the details.

Photography Tips: Capture the Unforgettable

Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland is a photographer's paradise. We share insider tips on capturing the magic, from the best angles for iconic landmarks to hidden gems that await discovery. Your memories will be as vibrant as the landscapes themselves.

Tour reviews - your experiences

Heidi Rupke

German-czech hospitality at its best.

This is our family's first time in Germany and this tour got us to places that we wouldn't have known we wanted to visit. Milan was the perfect guide: knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating of our group's varied needs. The Bastei Bridge is much more than I expected: remains of a medieval armory amid a stunning Sandstone gorge. And the boat ride was too short, but a bit of fairyland while it lasted. Lunch was delectable and generous. Thanks for a lovely day!

Richard Watson

Great day trip of hiking.

If you like hiking, nature and history this tour is a perfect match. The tour takes about 10 hours and has some great hiking. There are three stops and an amazing place for lunch. The first stop is the Bastei bridge which is part of a phenomenal old fortified area built directly into the mountain. The other two stops were changed slightly due to the number of people who wanted to see different things but the alternate visits were totally worth it. The more is a hike down to the river followed by a boat trip on the river itself. Climbing back up from the river is a chore but I was rewarded with an amazing meal. The last stop is the Pravcicka gate which is a hike up to a natural rock formation which unbelievable views of the area.

Justin Frigault

Wow, such an incredible day! Since it is a smaller group, it is more relaxed and easier to stay together. Plenty of time is given at each place and the beauty of the landscapes is breathtaking. Lunch was very tasty and the vans were great with waters and snacks given. Our guide was a historian and provided great background. My girlfriend and I had the best day and it is a must do in Dresden we think! Be ready for quite a bit of hiking and hills though.

Frequently asked questions - FAQ

14 Best Day Trips From Dresden Germany

• David Angel

About the Author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

From the fairytale landscapes of Saxon Switzerland to stunning cities like Meissen and Görlitz, there are many amazing day trips from Dresden.

In this article I show you 14 of the best Dresden day trips, beginning with the magnificent Bastei Bridge.  I describe what to see at each destination, explain how to get there and suggest tours or boat trips wherever possible.

I begin with 11 suggestions for day trips within Germany, then continue with three more across the border in the Czech Republic.

I hope you find my guide useful. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips From Dresden – Germany

1. bastei bridge and saxon switzerland national park.

The Bastei Bridge (Basteibrücke) is one of the most popular day trips from Dresden, and one of my favourites.

It’s one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe, a stone bridge crossing sandstone pinnacles on its way to a ruined rock castle, Felsenburg Neurathen.  The Bastei (Bastion) is a series of rocks soaring 194 metres above the River Elbe. It’s part of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, better known as the Saxon Switzerland National Park.

Entry to the Bastei Bridge is free – you only pay (€2) for entry to the rock castle.

There are a few viewpoints around the Bridge. The new Bastei viewpoint commands a superb view over the cliffs and Elbe Valley below. And the Ferdinandstein viewpoint a short walk from the Bridge offers the best view of the Bridge.

Best Day Tours From Dresden

This coach trip takes you to two of the highlights of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, the Bastei Bridge and Königstein Fortress, a great introduction to the National Park.

This tour from Dresden to Saxon and Bohemian Switzerland is fantastic. It includes Bastei Bridge, and a trip across the border to the landmark the Pravčička brana natural rock arch. This trip includes two hikes, including one along the Kamenice Gorge near the lovely Czech border village of Hřensko.

You could also take the more leisurely route up the Elbe, on a paddle steamer cruise from Dresden to the Königstein Fortress. It’s a fantastic route, taking in the Elbe Castles, Schloss Pillnitz and the Bastei Rocks.,

Getting there: If you plan to hike from the river to Bastei Bridge, take the S1 train to Kurort Rathen, catch the ferry across the river then walk up.

You can also get very close to the top by getting bus 237 from Pirna to Bastei. The bus stop is a gentle undulating 10-minute walk from the Bridge.  The bus stop is in the closest car park to the Bastei Bridge. A shuttle bus operates in summer from the second car park, 2 miles (3 km) away.

Görlitz is one of the best places to visit in Eastern Germany , a wonderfully preserved town right on the border with Poland.

It managed to avoid the destruction of many neighbouring towns (like Bautzen), so every last detail has survived, from Renaissance-era carvings in doorways to Baroque mansions.  Görlitz has been ‘discovered’ as a film location – some trains to the town now advertise ‘Görliwood’.

One of the quirks of visiting is that you can freely country-hop. Walk down the hill to the Neisse River – the border – and you can walk across the bridge to Zgorzelec and Poland. The view back to the twin spires of the imposing Gothic Peterskirche (SS Peter and Paul Church).

You can also visit the Art Nouveau Kaufhaus, the former department store where The Grand Budapest Hotel was filmed in 2014. It’s usually closed – as it’s being renovated – but is open for guided tours a few days each month.

And if you’re visiting Görlitz with kids, take them to Görlitz Zoo. It’s a small zoo in the suburbs of the city, and one of the best we’ve ever visited.

Day Tours From Dresden To Görlitz

This guided walking tour of the Old Town is a great way to learn more about the history of this stunning town.

And this private tour from Dresden also takes you to Bautzen and the nearby town of Pulsnitz – ideal if you want a quick overview of all the main sights.

Getting there: trains from Dresden take between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes.

Before Dresden became powerful, Meissen held sway over much of Saxony. The small city is famous for its porcelain, which is still made at the Factory near the city centre. If you visit, I suggest also visiting the amazing Porcelain Collection at the Zwinger Palace in Dresden for a greater appreciation of the handiwork and craftsmanship involved.

Meissen is one of the most beautiful places to visit on the river Elbe.  The Altstadt – Old Town – is wondrous, with narrow cobbled streets climbing to the mighty Albrechtsburg Castle.

The town is dominated by the Albtrechtsburg and the twin spires of its hugely impressive Cathedral. When I visited on a winter afternoon, I had the whole citadel to myself, an unforgettable experience.

Getting there: the S1 S-Bahn train to Meissen runs every 30 minutes from Dresden Hbf and Dresden-Neustadt.  The Meissen stop is across the river from the Old Town. Meissen-Altstadt is on the edge of the Old Town, a few minutes’ walk from the Markt (main square).

Leipzig is the nearest major city to Dresden, and a great destination for a day trip. It’s a bigger city than Dresden and, having recently spent around two weeks there, Leipzig is probably the most ‘western’ of the former East German cities I’ve visited.

This probably isn’t surprising, given that Leipzig played such a big role in bringing down the totalitarian East German state. Cracks had appeared in the façade over the summer of 1989, but the Monday gatherings at the Nikolaikirche (St Nicholas Church) greatly hastened the end of the Communist state.

These gatherings grew over the course of September 1989, with prayers for peace, non-violent protest and demands for freedom of movement and democracy. The largest of these demonstrations were in Leipzig, and the lack of violent response from the authorities encouraged others around the country to follow suit.

The church and Stasi Museum are two of the most intriguing Leipzig sights. But there’s much more to the city. For many years it was home to Johann Sebastian Bach, cantor at the Thomaskirche (St Thomas Church). Composers Robert Schumann and Felix Mendelssohn also made the city their home for some years. Each of the composers has a museum dedicated to them.

Leipzig isn’t widely celebrated for its early 20 th -century architecture, but it should be. The Altstadt is full of gorgeous flourishes of Art Nouveau, and the Memorial to the 1813 Battle of the Nations (Völkerschlachtdenkmal) also bears influences from the late period of this style.

Getting there: Regular trains depart from Dresden Hbf and Dresden-Neustadt.

See Also: Stasi Museum Leipzig – One of The Best Museums On East Germany

5. Moritzburg Castle

Schloss Moritzburg is one of the most beautiful castles in Germany. It’s a short bus ride (5 miles – 8 km) from the centre of Dresden, a lavish 18 th -century country seat originally built as a hunting lodge.

Moritzburg Castle’s setting is stunning, on an artificial island in the middle of a lake surrounded by forest. When I visited the lake was frozen, and many locals were skating across the ice.

The exterior – with its four domed towers – is a breathtaking sight. The interior is as extravagant as you would expect from Augustus the Strong, the ruler responsible for the famous Green Vault in Dresden.  Several of the rooms are decorated with gilded leather wallpaper. There is also a substantial collection of deer antlers, including the heaviest red deer antler (almost 20 kg) ever recovered.

The Moritzburg estate was later extended to include the Chinese-inspired Little Pheasants’ Castle and a lighthouse on another pond.

There is also a small game reserve 1 km from the castle, with bison, wolves, deer and more.

Getting there: Bus 477 from Dresden Neustadt station.

6. Loschwitz

Loschwitz is a riverside suburb of Dresden, and you could easily spend a day there, or combine it with a visit to Schloss Pillnitz. In the early 20 th century it was one of the most expensive city suburbs in the world, and there aren’t many better places in Europe to get an introduction to architecture from the period, with some amazing Art Nouveau villas and a progression towards bare, angular Functionalist homes.

The tram from the centre of Dresden takes around 25 minutes to reach Blasewitz, the suburb across the river from Loschwitz.  From there, you can walk the short distance (around 300 metres) across the Blue Wonder (Blaues Wunder) steel bridge to Loschwitz.

The area around the river has some beautiful medieval-style half-timbered houses, and also the lovely Loschwitz Church (Loschwitz Kirche). It’s an early work of the architect George Bähr, who went on to build the famous Frauenkirche Dresden .

Between the bridge and church, don’t miss Loschwitz’s two fantastic hill railways. The one nearest the bridge is the oldest funicular railway in the world, dating from 1895. It’s a wonderful ride, taking you through a tunnel before winding up the hill to some stunning views of Dresden.

The Schwebebahn (suspension railway) was built in 1901, and is also one of the oldest of its kind in the world. It’s basically one of the world’s oldest cable cars, and again takes you to the top of the hill for magical views over the Elbe and Dresden.

Getting there: Buses 61 and 63 from Dresden, or trams 6 and  12 to Blasewitz-Schillerplatz, then a walk across the bridge.

7. Boat Trip To Schloss Pillnitz

Dresden and the River Elbe landscape, with its Baroque palaces, was a UNESCO World Heritage Site until 2009. It was delisted because of the construction of a new bridge 2 miles (3 km) upstream from the city centre. However, apart from the new bridge, the beauty of the Elbe landscape hasn’t diminished at all. And this boat cruise from Dresden is a wonderful way to experience it.

The boat leaves the centre of Dresden, heading upstream past the new Waldschlosschen Bridge. Around a mile beyond this, you see the magnificent three Elbschlösser (Elbe Castles). Schloss Albrechtsberg, Lingnerschloss and Schloss Eckberg.

It then continues below the Blue Wonder bridge to Loschwitz (see above) before continuing to Schloss Pillnitz. This was a summer residence of Augustus the Strong, and includes three palaces, two museums (Decorative Arts and Castle) and stunning gardens.

Getting there: You can also get to Pillnitz by bus 63 from Dresden.

Pirna is one of the easiest day trips from Dresden, and one of the gateways to the Saxon Switzerland National Park.

The beautiful historic centre is a real hidden gem. The main square was famously painted by Bernardo Bellotto, Saxon court painter and nephew of Venetian painter Canaletto. Most of the buildings still survive, including the distinctive house to the right of the painting above.  This is now the local tourist office, and called the Canaletto Haus. The original painting can be seen in the Zwinger Palace in Dresden.

Just behind the main square, don’t miss the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), an amazing Gothic church that deserves far more attention than it gets. I rate it among the most beautiful churches in Germany – the stone vault is breathtaking.

Also take time to walk up to Sonnenstein Castle to enjoy the views over the town. There’s also a small DDR Museum showing life in the old East Germany.

And if you’re interested in the composer Richard Wagner, there are two sites associated with him in Graupa. Wagner spent three months there in 1846, and there are exhibitions devoted to him at the Hunting Lodge (Jagdschloss) and Lonhengrin House.

Getting there : S1 or S2 S-Bahn trains from Dresden main station take 22 minutes to reach Pirna.

Bautzen Germany is one of the most beautiful medieval towns you’ve (probably) never heard of.  The view as you approach from Dresden is unforgettable, with a skyline of medieval and church towers. And the cobbled streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) live up to the promise.

The capital of the Upper Lusatia region is an hour east of Dresden by train. It’s also the cultural capital of the Sorbs, a Western Slavic minority that history left within the borders of Germany. You see bilingual German and Sorbian signs all around the town, and you can learn more about them at the informative Sorbian Museum in the town.

I visited on a glorious (but bone-chilling) winter day with sun in the sky and snow on the ground. The town is magical year-round, with wall walks and some gorgeous streets to explore, like Schlossstrasse, which leads to the Ortenburg Castle complex. You can also climb some of the towers, including the Alte Wasserkunst, a restored waterworks originally opened in 1558.

During the GDR (Communist East Germany) years the name ‘Bautzen’ had fearsome connotations.  It was home to the dreaded Bautzen I, the ‘Yellow Misery’ prison. This institution is still in use, unlike Bautzen II, now known as the Bautzen Memorial.  This grim prison complex was operated by the Stasi, the East German secret police, and it was used to hold political prisoners. A fascinating glimpse into life behind the Iron Curtain.

10. Hohnstein

Hohnstein is one of the least-known day trips from Dresden. It’s a classic fairytale medieval village with half-timbered houses, a mighty castle and a mustard-yellow Baroque church.

Hohnstein – the name is derived from hohen stein , meaning ‘high rock’ – is located on the edge of the Saxon Switzerland National Park. It’s 12 km (8 miles) east of Pirna, and on the same bus route (237)  as the Bastei Bridge. You could easily combine the two as a day trip.

The formidable castle probably dates from the 13 th century, built by the Margravate of Meissen. It also came under the control of a Bohemian nobleman, Hynek Berka of Duba, and ceded to the Electorate of Saxony in 1443. It was later used as a prison by the Nazis, who incarcerated Polish and later French and Belgian officers there in 1940 -41.

The main things to do in Hohnstein are visiting the castle and hiking. If you’re contemplating staying close to some of the best Saxon Switzerland hikes, Hohnstein may make a suitable base for you.

The German capital, Berlin, is a two-hour fast train ride north of Dresden.  It’s a far bigger city than Dresden, and a day trip there is, like Prague, dipping your toes in the water.  

The minimum I would suggest seeing is the main Berlin landmarks – Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and the Berlin Wall top of the list. The most you are going to get in one day is an overview, and there are some great ways to do so.

Berlin Tours

Berlin is a big city with its sights spread out, so an easy way to see it is on a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour .  This tour also includes the option of some sightseeing by boat.

You can b urn up more calories on this 3-hour Berlin bike tour , which takes you from the Alexanderplatz to the Reichstag, via all the main sights in between.

And you could also drive around central Berlin in the classic Trabant car that was made in Communist East Germany. The Trabi has become a popular cult car since the fall of the Berlin Wall, and this Trabant Safari is a great way to step back in time.

Best Day Trips From Dresden – Into The Czech Republic

Dresden is only an hour’s train ride or drive from the border with the Czech Republic. You’ll need to carry your passport with you, but I’ve made this border crossing numerous times and never been asked to show my document.

1. Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Bohemian Switzerland is the Czech part of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. The landscape is similar to Saxon Switzerland, with some amazing rock formations and also some beautiful riverside hikes.

The Dresden to Prague train calls at Děčín, the Czech town on the edge of the National Park. But it’s easier to take the S1 S-Bahn train to Bad Schandau and catch the local train towards Děčín instead. Alight at Schöna, cross the street and catch the boat across the Elbe (and the border) to Hřensko.

From there it’s a 4-mile hike to the most famous landmark in Bohemian Switzerland, the Pravčička brana natural rock arch. Alternatively, the local buses 434 and 438 stop near the arch en route to Děčín.

The 100-mile trip from Dresden to the Czech capital Prague takes around three hours. Prague is a considerably larger city than Dresden but you can still see a few of the main sights on a day trip from Dresden.

If you’re travelling independently, my advice is to catch Metro line C two stops from the main station to IP Pavlova, then the scenic Prague tram 22 across the river and up the hill to Prague Castle (Pražský hrad). Then work your way back via the Charles Bridge and Old Town Square, including the magnificent Gothic Tyn Church.

Take a look at my guide to the best Things To Do In Prague for more inspiration.

Alternatively, you could take a guided trip by coach to Prague from Dresden .

3. Terezin Concentration Camp

The Terezin Memorial – also known by its German name, the Theresienstadt Ghetto – is one of the less obvious day trips from Dresden. But if you’re driving, it can easily be done. If you’re planning on a road trip, it’s a possible stop on your journey between Dresden and Prague.

The B172 road follows the Elbe from Pirna to the border. Once in the Czech Republic, the number road changes to 62.  At Děčín, follow the 261 south along the river to Litoměřice, and follow signs across the river to Terezin from there.

When visiting Terezin concentration camp , I suggest beginning at the Small Fortress, the site of the original prison and Ghetto, before heading back towards the town of Terezin. The Ghetto Museum and several other sites are spread around the former garrison town.

If you have time, I also suggest spending an hour looking around the lovely town of Litoměřice. It’s full of gorgeous Baroque churches, and there are some great wine trails to the west of the town around Velke Zernoseky.

Best Day Trips From Dresden – Final Thoughts

I hope you have found my day trips from Dresden guide helpful.

If you’re visiting Dresden, don’t miss my guide to the Frauenkirche Dresden , one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. There are several outstanding museums in Dresden to visit, including the Zwinger Palace and Historic Green Vault. Two less-known but fascinating Dresden museums are the Military History Museum and the Stasi Museum Dresden .

If you’re staying in the Dresden area for a while, or travelling more widely in the region, take a look at my guide to the best places to visit in Eastern Germany , which extends north to the Harz Mountains and Baltic Sea.

I have also written articles on some of the individual places mentioned in this guide. Don’t miss my guide to the Bastei Bridge , which includes detailed information on the best vantage points, visiting in winter, and how to get there by bus.

Finally, if you’re travelling more widely around Germany, check out my guide to the best places to visit in Germany . This article gives you a whole host of ideas. And there are even more articles on the country to explore via my Germany Travel Guide .

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

Full-Day Escape to Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland from Dresden

• Nicely chilled soft drink
• Fruit and croissant
• A la carte lunch
• Wifi connection
• Air-conditioned comfortable minivan
• Entry/Admission - Bastei Bridge
• Entry/Admission - Pravcicka Brana
• Entry/Admission - Wild Gorge
• We provide trekking poles for a day
• We provide disposable raincoats
• Entry/Admission - Pravcicka brana - Sokolí hnízdo
• We pick up our clients from the doorstep of the hotel, Airbnb, accommodation, apartment or private residential house in Dresden.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Pravcicka brana - Sokolí hnízdo

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Bastei Bridge Stop: 90 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by Bad Schandau Hrensko
• 2 Pravcicka brana - Sokoli hnizdo Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 3 Kamenice Gorge Stop: 2 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• 915swc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles It was an amazing trip It was an enjoyable trip to the national park. The scenic view was stunning. The arrangement and the pace of the trip were just nice and comfortable for the beginner hiker like me. Our tourguide, Simona, was a lovely person. She was very patient and care about our conditions along the trip. Since we were going for hiking during winter time, she prepared ice cleats for us to make sure we can walk safely on the snow. The lunch provided was nice too. Our driver, Mr Lubos, was friendly too. In overall, it was an amazing trip and we made a right choice. 😊 Read more Written January 20, 2024
• Donald M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A grand day out Fantastic day touring some amazing locations with our excellent guide Simona. Great local food and drink to finish. Highly recommend! Read more Written February 11, 2023
• chiranza 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous day out Fabulous day out, spectacular views with great company. Simona was super helpful guide and lunch very satisfying after the fresh air :) Read more Written February 11, 2023
• 306stefani 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles wonderful day trip in a farytale place We've just had an incredible day with Simona as guide and Lubos as our driver, in the Saxon and Bohemian Switzerland National Parks. Awsome views, must see scenary, delicious lunch, entertaining conversations, highly recommanded trip! Read more Written January 23, 2023
• fungchino 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bohemian white Christmas! The national park was beautiful especially the whole stretch of the sandstone was spectacular. It was snowing when we were there and it was a white Christmas!! The photos we took appeared professional and beautiful, however the walk up the hill and stairs was challenging with melting ice. I had a fall and my left knee is still hurt after one month. The meal was delicious!! I would strongly recommend this Winterland Tour. Read more Written January 20, 2023
• C5081KArebeccal 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing tour We had an amazing tour with Simona. We highly recommend the Winterland Tour to Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland. It was well organised. We had snacks and tea during the whole tour and lunch at a local restaurant. We really enjoyed it. The view at the sandstone walls is fantastic. Read more Written January 3, 2023
• C5443GOamyr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Magical Wonderland The tour with Simona and Luboš was a magical experience. The countryside and sites are just like a fairytale come to life. And Simona is knowledgeable, passionate and guides with enthusiasm - providing great context to this area. And we also had our own personal photographer for thr day with Simona and Luboš taking photos for us to remember this special day. Luboš was kind and considerate making sure we got everywhere safely. The lunch at the end was incredible! We felt by the end of the day we had made two new Czech friends who were kind enough to show us the magic of their country. Thank you. Read more Written January 3, 2023
• karenkaienc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fairytale Hike at Saxon Switzerland We loved the trip! Simona was very informative and our driver Luboš was so patient and on time. The sceneries were stunning and we felt like we were living in fairytale! The snack and water break in between hikes were a lifesaver. The trip was very well-planned. The goulash, beer and schnitzel at the end of the trip was delicious. Me and my friend are photo fanatics and Simona was so helpful with phototaking. Luboš also took breath-taking photos on the side. Thank you Simona and Luboš! Read more Written December 28, 2022
• Paul C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing tour with friendly, helpful people An amazing tour. Simona was great. Very knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating. Beautiful locations and experiences. Would recommend for anyone. Read more Written December 14, 2022
• Elsakitties3 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A winter trip into the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Simone is a very good knowledgeable guide who is always making sure everyone in the party is happy. Despite the bad weather we had we still managed to appreciate this unique piece of nature. Read more Written December 6, 2022
• Tourist596358 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing One on one tour with great tour guide and driver! The weather did not cooperate but the tour was definitely a great day! Read more Written November 27, 2022
• Road04338056835 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing trip We had an amazing time on this experience. It is an excellent day long activity for anyone near dresden or Prague. The hiking is not overly strenuous and the views from each location are outstanding! Read more Written November 13, 2022
• shedmist 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Hiking Experience We really enjoyed our experience hiking with Simona! She is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the area. We learned a lot and had fantastic views along the way. Transportation was also comfortable and convenient. Highly recommend attending this tour. Read more Written November 12, 2022
• 28mael 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Bastei Bridge & Pravčická Archway... our maiden trip and we got blown away with the scenic view. Ms.Simona,our tour lead was very informative, friendly and caring! We had a delicious lunch at U Foŕta. We recommend you to engage her without any reservations should you decide to visit these 2 places. Many thanks to Ms.Simona and Mr.Luboš who provided us a very safe & comfortable journey. We went home with fond memories. 😀 Read more Written November 5, 2022
• davidsL2821HS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Experience - Highly Recommended Both the Bastei bridge and arch were magical and well worth seeing. The Bastei bridge takes you back to early mideval times and is simply beautiful. The arch is also beautiful and a great hike. We really enjoyed our tour guide. She was personable, knowledgeable and really took care of us on the trip. Read more Written June 11, 2022

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Dresden

Head on over to Dresden: the capital of Saxony Land, eastern Germany! Dresden is the third largest city in eastern Germany behind Berlin and Leipzig.

The city of Dresden is located on the basin of the Elbe River falling just north of the Czech border and a short car ride south of Berlin. Due to its location near the river, Dresden has a very mild climate that is enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.

Before World War II, Dresden was commonly compared to Florence due to its connotation as one of the world’s architectural hubs. However, during the war, the entire city was nearly destroyed by the Anglo-American Air Force—in fact, it has been estimated by the German Commission that 25,000 people lost their lives during the bombings.

Upon conclusion of the war, it was agreed that a modern re-construction approach would be followed while simultaneously maintain the history of the city. Today, Dresden is a diverse cultural hub that anyone would enjoy to experience. Check out our travel guide for tips on how to tackle the city!

This ultimate travel guide to Dresden will show you all the most beautiful places in Dresden, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Dresden and things to do in Dresden which will help you in planning a trip to Dresden.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Dresden

It is very common for Berlin travelers to plan a weekend trip to Dresden as the cities are only about 120 miles apart. If you find yourself in this boat, catching a train is a great option.

Trains run throughout the day and a ticket typically costs between $40 and $80 (depending on the type of train and time of the day). For example, the Intercity Express Train travels through Leipzig. However, there might be a change in trains, which would add another hour to the trip.

If traveling with groups or with family, a car can easily be rented. Cars in Germany are usually rented to drivers over the age of 21, need a reservation in advance, and are stick shift. This trip, depending on traffic, should take about two hours.

Bus is the cheapest but longest and least comfortable option. Finally, taking a plane is probably your worst bet. Travelers must take a layover in a central German city, and then fly in to Dresden. If having to fly, your best bet is to land in Berlin and then take a train, 

How to get around Dresden

Getting around Dresden is pretty easy. When in the city center, everything is accessible by foot. However, if wanting to go to the outer parts of the city, using a bike or public transportation will be best. Surprisingly, Dresden has been able to devise a reliable public transportation system despite the bombings during World War II.

The public transportation system consists of railways, trams, and busses. Additionally, there are three ferries that cross the Elbe and two cable car systems. If already renting a car, don’t worry about driving throughout the city—roads are wide and very well paved.

What to expect in Dresden

The unit of currency in Germany is the Euro . Currently, the Euro to Dollar exchange rate is about 1 : 1.1. The language in Dresden, of course, is German, but travelers won’t have a hard time finding English speakers as well.

Generally speaking, it is common to leave a 10% tip or even a 5% tip at meals, but not always expected. In many parts of Germany, service charges are included in the price, so rounding up to the nearest 10 euro is acceptable. If receiving great service, don’t be shy to leave a tip!

The best time to visit Dresden

Average temperatures in Dresden vary all throughout the year. Typically speaking, about the half the year is cold and about half the year has very pleasant weather with low chances of snow or rain. If the cold isn’t for you, the warmest months in Dresden are July, August, and then June.

During this time, the hottest it will get is generally about 84.2 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius). Due to the proximity to the Elbe River, weather is often difficult to predict. Regardless of when you visit, you are bad to fall in love with the fresh, open air!

Where to stay in Dresden

If on a bit of a budget, the luxurious yet affordable Hotel Suitess is a great option. Rooms are finely decorated and contain marble countertops accompanied by a separate kitchen and living space.

Also, the amenities are amazing—this Dresden hotel has a rooftop restaurant and bar, and has a spa with a gym, sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms.

If you are looking for a top-quality hotel but willing to spend a bit more, Hotel Gewandhaus will not disappoint. This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Town and has all of the modern amenities you could ever need accompanied by the charismatic charm of local designers.

Hotels not your thing? Check on the many local hostels! I would personally recommend staying at Lollis Homestay .

The hostel is top notch and consistently attracts interesting groups of travelers and backpackers. Not to mention…there are so many free perks! Free bikes, free wifi, free coffee and tea, free dinners on Sunday, and free walking tours and wine tasting on Tuesdays!

For those more interested in going down the AirBnB route, I would recommend finding a place in Altstadt, Neustadt, or Loschwitz. AirBnBs can be booked for both solo travelers and groups alike—be sure to look for shared accommodations as well as private accommodations.

What to eat in Dresden

Dresden’s most famous food item, Dresdner Christstollen, is a staple not only in the city but in all of Germany. This infamous treat is the city’s take on fruitcake, and consists of butter, rum soaked raisins, almonds, candied lemon and orange peel, and a secret blend of spices.

Don’t forget to try this! Another great dessert in Dresdenis the Dresdner Eirschecke. This dessert consists of a sheet cake with three layers: the yeast dough base, quark cheese crème, and a thick layer of milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla pudding.

Most cafes and coffee shops are bound to have this item on their menu. For those looking for more of a savory experience, Dresden’s most popular open-faced sandwich will surely catch your eye. Yes, it is a bit weird, but give it a try.

The Fettbemme is a slice of thick dark rye bread topped with pork spread or beef lard, sliced gherkins (small pickled cucumbers similar but different than pickles), and sometimes sliced apples or onion chunks.

Finally, another local great dish is the Dresdner Sauerbraten. The city’s unique recipe requires that a leg of beef soaks in a stock of herb vinegar, malt beer, bay leaves, and spices for several days.

The beef is then quickly fried with butter and thrown in the oven before being served alongside bread dumplings and red cabbage. 

Things to do and places to visit in Dresden :

Dresden is home to a variety of different tourist attractions . Nonetheless, those looking for a more local experience will not have a difficult time. One of the most popular attractions that everyone should make time for is the Frauenkirche .

One of the world’s most renkown Baroques, the Frauenkirche was originally constructed in the mid 1700s. However, after World War II, the church was destroyed and desperately needed reconstruction.

After the reunification of Germany, the church underwent massive construction. And, interestingly, 4,000 original stones were included.

As a sign of international peace and good will, Britain donated a gold cross that remains on top of the church till this very day. The interior is incredible and both something that both religious and non-religious visitors will appreciate.

Additionally, you can take an elevator to the dome for some one-of-a-kind views. For those wanting to participate in worship, be sure to plan align your visit with one of 100+ concerts performed each year. 

Another amazing display of German heritage and culture is the Dresden Royal Palace . One of Europe’s oldest and most respected public museums, the Royal Palace is home to the Dresden State Art Collection.

Here, tourists will find priceless art artifacts and displays of traditional court clothing designed with time-consuming needle work. Also, the original green vault can be found here.

Although the green vault, too, was destroyed during the war, it was reconstructed and still contains an original collection of gold, silver, jewelry, and ivory from as early as the 14th century.

History buffs will definitely appreciate the history behind this castle—in the late 15th century, the Saxons owned the castle, and Augustus the Strong originally decided that the royal collections should also be open for the public to view and appreciate. Thus, the museum was born! 

When not bouncing between museums or basking in the amazing architecture scattered throughout the city, there are two things you must do: check out the street art in Neustadt and drink your sorrows away in a beer garden. Dresden Neustadt has gained a reputation internationally for its unique street art.

Visitors can experience the street art either on a guided tour or by themselves. All of the street art has been finely designed and coordinated to flow with the buildings’ architecture. Some of the art is very finely done with much attention to detail, while other pieces are more amateur, rough on the edges, but equally as cool.

After checking out the street art, be sure to stop by a local beer garden. Not only is this a great place to find some of the best beer that you will ever taste, but it is also a great opportunity to experience German culture and daily life. The beer is cheap, the food is good, and the people are nice—what more could you ask for?

Tours to do in Dresden

Of course, tours are available in many of the museums and palaces. Although different travelers prefer different tours, I would recommend making time for a tour at the Theaterplatz and Semper Opera .

The city’s opera house is located on this fine public square, and in order to see the interior you either have to attend a show (which can get expensive) OR you can take a tour from one of the enthusiastic staff members.

A tour is a great way to observe all that the opera house contains while simultaneously learning about its rich history and plethora of touring artists.

Another tour worth taking is a tour of the Chinese-inspired Pillnitz Palace and Gardens . In the 19th century, the palace was used to entertain guests of the royal family.

Not only is the architecture and art of the palace exquisite, but the gardens are equally as well-kept and arguably even more unique. Guided tours will allow you to see and learn about the rich history behind this property.

Day trips from Dresden

If wanting to experience and learn more about the lifestyle of the rich and wealthy, a perfect day trip to take is a visit to Meissen.

Meissen is only 30 kilometers west of the city, and was once home to a long reigning dynasty. This dynasty built their home, the Albrechtsburg Castle, towering above Meissen right in the middle of the city.

The castle is a beautiful representation of the Gothic era. Visitors will be shocked by how well the interior of the castle has been kept—paintings seem as if they were created yesterday, and much of the castle’s original interior design has been maintained.

Another reason worth visiting Meissen is due to its vast porcelain manufacturing. Tourists can tour the porcelain factory and see both new and old pieces of art. It’s amazing to see how the porcelain is designed and created! 

For those wanting to experience the outdoors, a fan favorite is the Saxon Switzerland National Park . The park is a mere 30 kilometers southeast of Dresden, and contains an unreal landscape filled with huge limestone pillars and many views of the Elbe river.

Hiking trails are plentiful, but there is also a tram that tourists can take if not wanting to walk too much. Main attractions in the park include the waterfall at Lichtenhain, the Bastei Bridge, and the village of Bad Schandau. 

We hope you enjoy all that Dresden has to offer! Fall in love with the food, history, architecture, and art. Not only is the city easily accessible, it is also bound to satisfy all of your traveling desires!

Recommended tours in Dresden

• Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden – Hiking Tour
• Dresden Walking Tour of the Historic Old Town
• Small-Group Bastei Bridge and Königstein Fortress Day Tour from Dresden
• Dresden Live-Guided Self-Drive Trabi Safari City Tour
• Winter Edition Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Tour from Dresden
• Street Art Tour Dresden Neustadt
• New Green Vault with Licensed guide
• Dresden private tour with castle visit

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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The Best Day Trips From Dresden

The city of Dresden , perched on the shore of the River Elbe, is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, with a treasure trove of art and architecture that can keep travelers happy for days. However, the city is surrounded by fantastic locations that are also worth a stop. Here is our top pick of awesome day-trip options.

Saxon switzerland national park.

The magnificent expanse of Saxon Switzerland National Park lies just 19 miles (30 kilometers) southeast of Dresden. This park rewards travelers with views of imposing sandstone rock formations towering over the River Elbe, the Lilienstein mountain, Koenigstein fortress, and gorgeous wilderness as far as the eyes can see. However, the most famous landmark of this national park, and one of the most photographed sites in the country, is the Bastei Bridge connecting the massive rocks. The romantic town of Pirna and the spa town of Bad Schaundau are two extremely popular stops in the park. At the end of the day, if you are not ready to leave this piece of paradise, consider staying overnight in one of the hotels.

Moritzburg Castle

Moritzburg Castle sits pretty on an artificial island around eight miles (13 kilometers) from Dresden. This castle, built in the 1500s, is open for public tours. The interior never fails to amaze visitors with its walls wrapped in gold-gilded leather and ornate baroque decorations. The lush symmetric French gardens surrounding the castle and the smaller pink Pheasant Castle nearby are worth exploring as well.

Meissen is a romantic, picturesque little town about 16 miles (25 kilometers) away from Dresden. The most notable landmarks in Meissen are the Gothic Albrechtsburg Castle, Frauenkirche (“Church of Our Lady”) and the charming old town. Meissen is also known for its porcelain and ceramics production. During your visit, don’t miss the pretty porcelain bells at the Frauenkirche .

Görlitz, 68 miles (110 kilometers) from Dresden, is a historic river town famous for its stunning gothic, renaissance and baroque architecture. The most well-known sites in Görlitz are the beautifully preserved old town, St Peter and Paul’s Church, St Marienthal Abbey, and Fat Tower. Görlitz also has a number of interesting museums and a zoo. Travelers interested in squeezing as many of the landmarks as possible within a day might consider joining one of the city tours .

Burg Stolpen

Located less than 19 miles (30 kilometers) from Dresden, the 800-year-old Stolpen Castle is a must-visit. Visitors will learn about the tragic story of Countess Cosel, who was imprisoned in this castle for 49 years, not unlike a fairy-tale princess. While touring the castle, visitors also get to find out about the Stolpen basalt on which the castle is founded.

Radebeul, only seven miles (12 kilometers) from Dresden, is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs. The quaint town has been famous for its viticulture since the 1300s, and today it is still rich in lush vineyards. Visitors can tour wineries and sip on some great wine. Schloss Wackerbarth is the most popular stop for wine enthusiasts. The Karl May Museum and the DDR Museum are also definitely worth exploring for a dose of culture and history.

Bautzen , on the shore of the River Spree, is 31 miles (50 kilometers) away from Dresden and is a popular day-trip destination. This pretty town has a lot of interesting architecture, including Ortenburg Castle, Alt Wasserkunst, and St Peter’s Cathedral. Saurierpark Kleinwelka adventure park, boasting of life-size dinosaurs, climbing frames, slides, and ropes, is invariably a big hit with children.

The 14th-century town of Seiffen is nestled in the Ore Mountains and is 40 miles (65 kilometers) from Dresden. Seiffen, affectionately referred to as the “Toy Village,” is known for its varied and beautiful handicrafts. It is especially famous for its wood carving, though a large number of people are involved in lace-making and weaving. It is one of the best places in Germany to purchase authentic, traditional Christmas ornaments and decorations, like wooden nutcrackers, candle arches, Christmas carousels, and more. The Toy Museum is a delightful place that travelers can’t afford to miss while in Seiffen.

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Day Trip to Dresden from Berlin: What to do in Dresden in One Day

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Ali Garland, Berlin expert & long term resident What to Do

Do you have an extra day in your Berlin itinerary? Taking a day trip from Berlin to Dresden is a great idea to see another part of Germany and not losing too much time getting there and back.

Dresden is a lovely city, and you can see lots of the highlights in one day. In this post, I’ll show you how to get from Berlin to Dresden , and what to do on a Dresden day trip from Berlin .

If you have more than 3 days in Berlin , a day trip is a great option, and Dresden is an excellent city to visit.

What you'll find here

Book a tour for your Dresden day trip

If you’re only visiting Dresden for a day, a tour can help you make the most of your time. Here are a few to check out.

• Dresden Walking Tour
• Dresden: River 1.5 Hour Sightseeing Boat Cruise
• Dresden Combo Ticket: Semperoper & Old Town Tour

Is Dresden worth visiting?

Yes, Dresden is definitely worth visiting. It is a gorgeous city that lies along the Elbe River, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Germany . Let’s take a look at some fantastic reasons to visit Dresden.

Why should you take a day trip from Berlin to Dresden?

The city is south of Berlin and not too far away, so it’s manageable to visit Dresden on a day trip. If you have more time, it’s also a great weekend trip.

Many of the main attractions are in the old town, so it’s easy to explore and see a lot of what the city’s historical center has to offer.

World War II left its mark on Dresden, and much of what you see today has been rebuilt. Dresden’s place in WWII and Cold War history is an interesting reason to visit.

From the Frauenkirche to the Dresden Castle, a walk through the city shows you how resilient Dresden is and how hope can come out of even the darkest moments.

Dresden’s old town is really gorgeous, and it’s well worth a day trip from Berlin to see a different city with interesting history and architecture.

I’ve also included Dresden on my one week Germany itinerary for Berlin and eastern Germany .

Where to stay in Dresden

Dresden is such a great city, you might decide you’d rather spend a night or two there. The city certainly has enough things to do to fill more than one day.

Here are some hotels we recommend for an overnight or weekend trip to Dresden.

Hotels in Dresden

How to get from berlin to dresden by train.

Getting around in Germany is pretty simple, and getting from Berlin to Dresden is no exception. You can read more about how to get from Berlin to Dresden by train and bus , but let’s take a look at the short version before diving into why Dresden is worth visiting as a day trip from Berln.

To get from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Dresden Hauptbahnhof, you can easily take the train using Deutsche Bahn . There are direct trains roughly once an hour, some that take a little under two hours, and some that take a little over two hours.

Most trains going to Dresden also stop in either Berlin Gesundbrunnen or Berlin Spandau, plus Berlin Südkreuz. Check which station is closest to where you’re staying in Berlin to see which one makes the most sense.

Most trains stop in both Dresden Hbf and Dresden Neustadt, so if you mostly want to explore the old town, get out at Dresden Hbf.

But the Neustadt is a great part of town with lots to see too, so if you’re starting your Dresden day trip there, that is the better station.

>>Check prices and train schedules on the Deutsche Bahn website .

How to Get from Berlin to Dresden by Bus

If you’re traveling on a budget, FlixBus is another great option. The buses leave from the central bus station, Südkreuz, or sometimes Alexanderplatz.

It takes between two to three hours to get to Dresden from Berlin by bus. Most of the buses also stop in both Dresden Hbf and Dresden Neustadt.

FlixBus is a comfortable option that will most likely save you some money in exchange for not too much extra time.

Things to do in Dresden in One Day

Dresden has lots of culture and history to explore, and there are plenty of museums, monuments, and other great attractions to fill your day. Here’s a list of things to do in Dresden in one day and decide which ones fit your interests.

You can’t do everything on this list in one day, but you can certainly get a good view of the city and see a lot of Dresden in a day.

Consider taking a walking tour of Dresden like this one to make the most of your day trip to Dresden.

Visit the Frauenkirche Dresden

The Frauenkirche Dresden is a Lutheran church and a symbol of Dresden’s rebirth from the ashes of World War II. Its reconstruction is seen as a sign of post-war international reconciliation.

Originally built between 1727 and 1743, the Frauenkirche was destroyed during the bombing of 1945. Afterwards, the ruins stood as a war memorial for 50 years before donations from around the world helped rebuild the church.

Visit today and admire the beauty of the building or attend a service.

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Swing by Dresden Castle

One of the oldest buildings in Dresden and an important example of Renaissance architecture, Dresden Castle was home to kings of Saxony for over 400 years.

On its outer walls, you can catch a glimpse the Fürstenzug, a long mural depicting the rulers of Saxony through the ages.

After destruction from WWII, reconstruction work finally began in 1985, and it is still being worked on today.

Marvel at the treasures in the Green Vault

Founded in 1723 by Augustus the Strong of Poland and Saxony, this museum began as his private collection and is sometimes considered the oldest in the world.

Today, the Green Vault houses an array of eye-catching ornaments from silverware and carved ivory to ornate cabinets and Venetian automatons. The crowning glory is Dresden Green – an enormous, green Indian diamond.

Explore Zwinger Palace

This famous Baroque building is a palatial complex edged by ornately sculpted gardens. It was built on behalf of Augustus the Strong.

Beginning life as an orangery, the project developed into a fully-fledged court. Today, you’ll be suitably amazed at how well this building has been restored following WWII.

Check out the art museum inside or simply enjoy the beauty of the building and gardens from the outside.

Check out the German Hygiene Museum

A unique place to visit in Dresden, you may not think a “hygiene museum” is very interesting, but this place features more of a general focus on medical science.

The fascinating museum draws in around 300,000 visitors per year to learn more about the human body through exhibitions on topics such as “What is Beautiful?” and “War and Medicine.”

Admire the Fürstenzug

Located along the outer wall of the stables courtyard of the Dresden Castle, you’ll find an impressive mural of rulers of Saxony. This mural depicts the portraits of 35 kings, dukes, and other important figures.

From 1904 to 1907, the mural was replaced using 23,000 Meissen tiles in order to make it waterproof, and it is now the largest piece of artwork made of porcelain in the world.

Take a ride on the Schwebebahn Dresden

This funicular railway connects the districts of Loschwitz and Oberloschwitz. Starting life in 1901, it is actually one of the world’s oldest suspension railways.

Still working to this day, this unique monorail system provides visitors not just a convenient way to get around, but also views from the observation deck at Oberloschwitz.

It’s a little ways outside the center of Dresden, but it’s worth it for those of you who are looking for something a bit different. Stop by the cafe and soak up the valley vista.

Admire the art at Albertinum

The Albertinum is a modern art museum set in a sandstone Renaissance revival style building, situated in the historic heart of the city.

Named after King Albert of Saxony, it plays host to 200 years of art and sculptures – from Romanticism to the present day. This museum is a must for art lovers.

Catch a show at Semperoper Dresden

But even if you don’t catch a show, this neoclassical opera house will still wow you from the moment you see it. Its history is longer than the current reconstruction (only opened in 1985) – it started life back in 1667 as Dresden’s first opera house.

The city soon became a prominent city for opera in Europe, and people flocked from across the continent to enjoy Italian and German opera.

Spend some time at Kraftwerk Mitte

This 19th century red-brick power plant was recently reborn as a cultural venue. It has since become a happening hub for Dresden’s creatives and cool kids from all over.

Inside the complex, you’ll find a nightclub, two theaters, the Energy Museum, and two music schools. In the summertime, its open-air cafes become chilled-out spots to enjoy a cup of coffee.

Take a breather at Grosser Garten

In the center of Dresden you’ll find the Grosser Garten, a 1.8-square-kilometer Baroque style park was originally established in 1676. Since opening its doors to the public in 1814, it has become a favorite spot for locals to amble its tree-lined pathways and avenues.

It’s also here that you’ll find Dresden Zoo and Dresden Botanical Garden. You can even take a ride on a miniature railway that operates here during the summer months!

Get festive at the Striezelmarkt

Thought to be the first Christmas market in the world, the Striezelmarkt has been going strong since 1434. It was first set up by Friedrich II in order to supply citizens with meat to enjoy with their Christmas meal.

Dresden locals really like Christmas, and so do visitors. An estimated three million people every year make their way to the market during the Advent season to shop gifts, decorations, and buy up its famed pastry, the Stollen.

Stollen is a bread type pastry similar to fruitcake. You’ll find Stollen at Christmas markets throughout Germany, but supposedly it originated in Dresden.

Another interesting thing about Dresden’s Christmas market is its quite an Erzebirge pyramid, a tall wooden tower-like structure you’ll see at most German Christmas markets. The one in Dresden is 14.62 meters (almost 48 feet) tall and is the world’s largest Erzebirge pyramid.

Drink some milk at Pfunds Molkerei

Pfunds Molkerei has been called “the most beautiful milk shop in the world” by Guinness World Records, and it’s hard to disagree. This 19th-century shop for all things dairy is a world of elaborate design, boasting hand-painted tiles and gilded fixtures.

For sale, you’ll find numerous types of cheeses, as well as liquor and wine, but you could also opt for the traditional milk soap.

Be wowed by the Dresden Panometer

Created by Austrian-born artist Yadegar Asisi, the “Panometer” is the name of two panoramic paintings by Asisi. One depicts Dresden as it may have appeared in 1756, while the other illustrates Dresden in 1945 following its destruction during the war.

It’s impressively housed inside a former gasometer. Neither painting is shown at the same time, instead alternating which view visitors will see.

Take a stroll along Brühl’s Terrace

Dresden’s location on the Elbe River makes for some scenic wandering.

Where the old town meets the river, Brühl’s Terrace is one of the prettiest places to go for a stroll to admire both the river and the architecture. This terrace along the river is where the old city ramparts were once located.

Soak up the masterpieces at the Old Masters Picture Gallery

This is one impressive gallery. With 750 paintings on display, the collection at this Dresden museum ranges from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

Originally founded by Augustus, Elector of Saxony in 1560, over the years, more works have been added to the collection. Today you can see works from the likes of Raphael, Rembrandt, and Lucas Cranach the Elder.

Take a trip to Pillnitz Castle

To the east of the city stands Pillnitz Castle. This restored Baroque palace sits elegantly on the banks of the River Elbe where the village of Pillnitz was once located.

Built as the summer residence for the kings of Saxony, it’s a sprawling estate with lush hillsides and sculpted gardens. It’s also home to the Arts and Crafts Museum.

Stroll through the Kunsthofpassage

On the opposite side of the river, explore Dresden’s hip Neustadt. A favorite among Dresden creative types, Kunsthofpassage is a narrow lane filled with artistic establishments and is home to cool book shops and cafes.

One of the landmarks of this alleyway is the colorful Courtyard of Elements. On the front of one building is an installation – a complex of funnels and gutters which, when it rains, turns the water into music. A cool thing to do on a rainy day in Dresden!

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin, and hopefully this guide for a day trip to Dresden from Berlin is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!

• 101 Best Things to do in Berlin
• 23 Impressive Castles in Berlin (And Nearby)
• 27 Best World War II & Cold War Sights in Berlin
• 29 Fun Day Trips From Berlin
• 75 Things to Know Before Visiting Berlin: Essential Berlin Travel Tips
• What to Wear & What to Pack for Berlin, Germany: Your Ultimate Berlin Packing List
• How to Get Around in Berlin: An Easy Guide to Berlin Public Transportation

Check out my favorite travel planning sites and resources

These are the sites I like for travel planning, plus items I like to travel with.

Planning Booking.com : Find a Berlin hotel here.

Rick Steves and Lonely Planet : My favorite guidebook resources.

Tours, Activities, Tickets Viator : Great site for finding tours and other activities.

GetYourGuide : Another good option for tours and activities.

Transport Welcome Pickups : No stress option for airport pickups.

Discover Cars : Find a rental car for Germany road trips.

Deutsche Bahn and FlixBus : Best options for getting around Germany.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for German & EU.

Collapsible water bottle , plug adapter , and stuff bag : Small things that will make your trip a little easier.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for Germany & EU.

Book a local photographer Flytographer : Hire an amazing local photographer anywhere in the world. Use code BERLINTRAVEL to get $25 off your first photo shoot.

Related Posts

What to do in Berlin on Monday: 25+ Museums & More

What to do in Berlin on Sunday: 15+ Ideas

Best Berlin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

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Berlin: Dresden Day Tour

Embark on a journey from Berlin to the picturesque city of Dresden, hailed as “The Pearl of Baroque,” and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty along the banks of the Elbe River. Join us for a private tour led by knowledgeable local experts, where you’ll discover Dresden’s architectural splendor, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture.

Tour Description

Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pick-up in Berlin, where your private driver will greet you at the designated time. Settle into a comfortable mini-van/car and enjoy a leisurely 2.5-hour drive to Dresden, soaking in the picturesque landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival in Dresden, embark on a panoramic city tour to explore the cultural gems of this enchanting city. Marvel at the striking architecture of the German Museum of Hygiene, the historic Yenidze former cigarette factory, and the Volkswagen Factory . Pause at the New Synagogue and stroll along the scenic Bruhl’s Terrace promenade. Take a moment to unwind amidst the lush greenery of the Great Garden park.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Baroque Quarter in the New Town, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the iconic Blue Wonder bridge . Embark on a walking tour to delve deeper into Dresden’s history and architecture, as you discover landmarks such as the Residential Castle, Palace Dresdner Zwinger, New Market Square, Theater Square, Semper Opera, Royal Mews, Dresden Cathedral, and the Church of Our Lady – Frauenkirche .

After the guided tour, enjoy some leisure time to explore Dresden independently, indulge in local cuisine, or shop for souvenirs . Finally, your private driver will transport you back to your Berlin hotel, concluding your enriching day trip to Dresden.

Approximately 11 hours

• Panoramic city tour of Dresden, including cultural landmarks and scenic spots
• Walking tour of Dresden’s Baroque Quarter and historic city center
• Visit to iconic landmarks such as the Dresden Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady – Frauenkirche
• Free time to explore Dresden independently or savor local cuisine
• Comfortable transportation in a mini-van/car with an English-speaking driver’s assistance

Prices start from 109 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).

What is included

• hotel pick-up and drop-off at chosen time
• comfortable transportation in a mini-van/car
• English-speaking driver’s assistance (other languages upon request)
• private English-speaking guide in Dresden for up to 4 hours (other languages upon request)
• free time in Dresden

Additional information:

• Private tours available in multiple languages upon request.
• Suitable for all ages.
• This is a private tour/activity, ensuring exclusivity for your group.

Choose number of participants

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