Dresden

Welcome to a beautiful city on the river

The purest art of culture

Welcome to Dresden

Dresden’s beauty is undisputed – and unmistakable! It reveals itself to visitors at first glance and is characterised by an irresistible combination of romantic landscape, Baroque architecture and one of the most beautiful historic city centres in Germany. At second glance, "Florence on the Elbe", as it is often called, attracts visitors with a wealth of art and culture that can easily hold its own on an international level. The locals love and enjoy their city, its streets and squares and its iconic music venues with regular performances by world-class artists – and guests from all over the world are very much invited to join in.

trees turn Dresden into one of Europe’s greenest cities

Dresden's Grand Garden

Year first Dresdner Stollen Christmas cake was first mentioned

Christmas in Saxony

galleries and exhibition spaces

Museums in Dresden

Highlights of the Baroque city

Sights and attractions in Dresden

Where art meets architecture

Dresden’s old town

Dresden's historic centre is located on the left bank of the Elbe River. The row of buildings lining up on the riverfront are considered the city’s "showcase" with splendid Renaissance, Baroque, and 19th century architecture. The view from the opposite bank is definitely worthwhile!

Dresden’s old town is very walkable with numerous sights in close proximity, such as Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) as a symbol of the city’s reconstruction, the Semper Opera or the Zwinger. The Old Masters Picture Gallery and the collections at Dresden's Royal Palace house world-class art. Around Altmarkt and Prager Straße, visitors will find shopping centres, restaurants, and more culture.

Be dazzled by Dresden’s Baroque majesty.

World-class collections

Discover Dresden's splendid museums

Open detail page 'Old Masters Gallery and Sculpture Collection till 1800'
© Oliver Killig, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister/Oliver Killigl, Klut
Old Masters Gallery and Sculpture Collection till 1800
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Theaterplatz 1, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'Historical Green Vault – State Art Collections Dresden'
© Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden
Historical Green Vault – State Art Collections Dresden
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Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'New Green Vault – State Art Collections Dresden'
© Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden/Jürgen Lösel
New Green Vault – State Art Collections Dresden
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Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'Albertinum – New Masters Gallery and Sculpture Collection of the Dresden State Art Collections'
© David Pinzer Fotografie, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden/David Pinzer
Albertinum – New Masters Gallery and Sculpture Collection of the Dresden State Art Collections
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Tzschirnerplatz 2, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'Dresden Porcelain Collection'
© Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden/Jürgen Lösel
Dresden Porcelain Collection
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Zwinger, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'Museum of Decorative Arts in Dresden'
© Tomá Sou_ek, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden/Tomas Soucek
Museum of Decorative Arts in Dresden
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August-Böckstiegel-Straße 2, 01326 Dresden
Open detail page 'Kupferstich-Kabinett (Collection of Prints, Drawings and Photographs) - State Art Collections Dresden'
© Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, Kupferstich-Kabinett
Kupferstich-Kabinett (Collection of Prints, Drawings and Photographs) - State Art Collections Dresden
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Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'The Salon of Mathematical and Physical Instruments in Dresden - State Art Collections Dresden'
© SKD, H. C. Krass, SKD, Hans Christian Krass
The Salon of Mathematical and Physical Instruments in Dresden - State Art Collections Dresden
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Zwinger, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'Museum of Saxon Folk Art and Collection of Puppet Theatres'
© David Pinzer Fotografie, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden/David Pinzer
Museum of Saxon Folk Art and Collection of Puppet Theatres
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Köpckestraße 1, 01097 Dresden
Open detail page 'Military History Museum of the German Armed Forces'
© Militärhistorisches Museum der Bundeswehr/Meier
Military History Museum of the German Armed Forces
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Olbrichtplatz 2, 01099 Dresden
Open detail page 'Transport Museum in Dresden'
© Verkehrsmuseum Dresden
Transport Museum in Dresden
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Augustusstraße 1, 01067 Dresden
Open detail page 'DEUTSCHES HYGIENE-MUSEUM Dresden (THE HUMAN ADVENTURE)'
© DHMD, David Brandt
Tip DEUTSCHES HYGIENE-MUSEUM Dresden (THE HUMAN ADVENTURE)
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Lingnerplatz 1, 01069 Dresden

Where history meets hip

Neustadt

Dresden’s Baroque flair is nowhere more evident than in the Neustadt district. Winding alleys, picturesque courtyards and spacious streets invite you to discover and indulge in leisurely strolls. Art lovers will find a wide variety of galleries, studios, and antique shops, while numerous cafés and restaurants in Baroque courtyards are perfect for food and drinks.

The so-called Äußere Neustadt neighbourhood at the district’s outer edges is creative, colourful, and urban. Try the Kunsthofpassage, an ensemble of interconnected backyards designed according to different themes.

Dresden by bike or scenic tram

Discover Dresden at your own pace

Exploring Dresden on two wheels is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the city. Well-maintained cycling paths connect the main sights, making it easy to move comfortably and smoothly from one highlight to the next. Ride along the Elbe River, pass impressive Baroque landmarks, and wander through charming neighbourhoods – all at your own pace and close to the city’s rhythm.

Highlight: guided bike tours in Dresden
For an especially rewarding experience, join one of the city’s guided bike tours. They combine relaxed cycling with fascinating insights into Dresden’s history, architecture, and local life. View available tours and book your ride here.

Prefer public transport?
Tram lines 2 or 9 offer a scenic alternative. Running from Dresden's outskirts straight through the city centre, they bring you close to major attractions such as the Zwinger and Semper Opera – a comfortable way to see Dresden from a different perspective.

Discover Dresden bike tours

Check out our recommendations

Dresden on a budget

Abendlicher Spaziergang am Elbufer — Dresden proves that memorable travel doesn’t have to be expensive – just well timed and well explored.

Free culture with “Frei ab drei”

A major highlight for art lovers is “Frei ab drei” from the Dresden State Art Collections. Every Sunday from 3 pm, one of the 15 museums that make up this ensemble offers free admission, giving access to world-class collections and historic interiors at no cost. It’s one of the best ways to experience Dresden’s museums on a budget.
Art beyond museums

Dresden’s creative scene extends well beyond its institutions. Several smaller galleries across the city offer free entry, especially for contemporary art exhibitions. Check out the area around Königstraße with its little side streets. For an alternative perspective, head to the Neustadt district where graffiti, murals and poster art turn streets and courtyards into an ever-changing open-air gallery.
Explore outdoor sights and attractions for free

Many of Dresden’s most famous sights are free to enjoy on foot. Walk through the old town to see Church of Our Lady, the Zwinger courtyard, and Brühl’s Terrace, or relax along the Elbe riverbanks. Parks like the Grand Garden are ideal for picnics and lazy afternoons.
Affordable public transport

Dresden’s compact centre makes walking easy, while the tram network connects all major neighbourhoods at low cost. For longer stays, a day ticket or city card can help keep transport expenses down. Find out more on the Dresden Transport Authority website.

Culinary tips

Dresden for foodies

Dresden’s famous Christmas Stollen is more than just a cake. As a much-cherished tradition that goes back to the 15th century, it is part of the city’s culinary DNA. The cake is only prepared for Christmas season according to a special recipe and its taste is simply delicious!
Another favourite German sweet for Christmas, called Dominostein, was also invented in Dresden. We very much recommend trying this delicacy covered in a thin icing of dark chocolate.
One more for lovers of cake: Dresdner Eierschecke is a three-layered tray bake made of yeast dough and with lost of cream cheese. Again, we can only urge you to try it!
On to the hearty stuff: Dresdner Sauerbraten is the local version of a traditional German roast beef with marinated meat, typically served with potatoes and red cabbage.
Only in Saxony: Fettbemme is a slice of dark rye bread with lard and topped with sliced gherkins and sprinkled with salt. A simple dish that has even found its way into upscale Dresden restaurants.

For your Dresden adventure

Tips from Dresden insiders

Insider tip: board one of Dresden’s nostalgic steamboats for an evening trip and enjoy romantic moments!

Dresden is home to the oldest and biggest paddle steamer fleet in the world and a yearly steamship parade sees the impressive vessels sail in formation to Pillnitz Palace just outside town and back. They are accompanied by a large, joint concert of steam whistles and by many enthusiastic spectators on the banks of the Elbe. The parade takes place on specific dates at the start and end of the fleet’s main season.
Since 1971, Dresden’s International Dixieland Festival (in May) has been attracting fans of jazz, swing, and dixieland tunes from across the world to the city to enjoy a diverse programme of acts in locations all over the city centre.
Kraftwerk Mitte Dresden is a special venue for cultural experiences and testimony to Dresden's lively cultural scene. The former power station is now a place for dancing and singing. Among others, the Dresden State Operetta and tjg, a theatre ensemble specifically catering for children and young adults, have moved in here.
Get on the Loschwitz suspension railway at Körnerplatz for a three-minute ride up to the Loschwitzhöhe elevation to enjoy a fabulous view of Dresden. Built in 1900, it is considered to be the world’s oldest mountain suspension railway!

Memorable days

Discover Dresden in 48 hours

Experience an unforgettable long weekend in Dresden, a city with the perfect blend of historic grandeur and vibrant culture. Stroll through the breathtaking old town, visit the magnificent Zwinger complex, and explore the trendy, artistic streets of the Neustadt quarter. In between your adventures, take time to enjoy a typical Saxon Eierschecke cake and other local delights, before rounding off your trip with an enjoyable ride on one of the historic steam boats, complete with a romantic dinner on the river. Dresden is waiting to welcome you!

Day 1 in Dresden: Friday

Arrive at your leisure and begin your journey with a stroll through Dresden's historic old town. Admire the grand Baroque façades, take in the sweeping views over the River Elbe from Brühl’s Terrace, and gather your very first impressions of this captivating city.

Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection — Studio Uwe Gärner | CC-BY

Check in to your welcoming, centrally located hotel, offering excellent links to Dresden’s public transport network.

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Blick auf die Brühlsche Terrasse in Dresden mit der Frauenkirche und der Zitronenpresse im Hintergrund — © MG

Perfect start to a weekend full of experiences: a short stroll through the city's old town to Brühl's Terrace offers you splendid views of the Elbe.

Enjoy a coffee break either on Brühl's Terrace with views across the river, or at Neumarkt square overlooking Church of Our Lady.

Dresden old town walk

Enjoy authentic Saxon cuisine with a memorable dinner at Dresden's historic "Pulverturm" restaurant. Set in an atmospheric vault, it is the perfect spot to feast on traditional hearty dishes and soak up the unique, lively atmosphere.

"Pulverturm" restaurant

Dresdner Zwinger bei Nacht // The Dresden Zwinger at night — © Sebastian Rose

Treat yourself to a relaxing nightcap at Felix, a bar boasting magnificent views over the Zwinger.

Felix rooftop bar

Day 2 in Dresden: Saturday

On Saturday, you can look forward to a wildlife adventure at the zoo, a stroll through the Grand Garden park and exciting hands-on activities at the Hygiene Museum. Round off the day with ice cream, cake and Saxon treats in a historic setting.

Dresdner Zwinger — © DDpix Marcel Quietzsch

Your day starts with the Zwinge, one of Europe’s most spectacular Baroque ensembles. Inside, the world-famous Old Masters Picture Gallery is waiting. Raphael’s Sistine Madonna is the star, but the Dutch and Italian collections are no less sublime.

For architecture lovers: linger in the recently renovated courtyards and pavilions; their symmetry and ornamentation are part of the experience.

Dresden's Zwinger

Combine art and culinary delight with a sophisticated light lunch at the "Alte Meister" restaurant, located right next to the famous Semper Opera.

"Alte Meister" restaurant

dresden-elbland-dresden-semperoper-CC0-tmgs-julia-nimke (8) — © Julia Nimke

Even if you don’t attend a performance, a guided tour of Dresden's Semper Opera is well worth it for the buildings stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture.

Book a Semper Opera tour

Catch the number 11 tram directly to "Pfunds Molkerei" (Stop "Diakonissenkrankenhaus"). Known as the world’s most beautiful dairy shop, this is the ultimate stop to shop for artisan cheeses, Instagram worthy snaps included. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the bohemian streets of the Neustadt quarter and be sure to check out Kunsthofpassage, a series of hidden, artfully designed courtyards that perfectly capture the creative heart of Dresden’s alternative scene.

Visit Pfunds Molkerei

Treat yourself to delicious ice cream or cake in one of Dresden’s many charming cafés.

Why not try the local speciality, Dresdner Eierschecke? This delightfully fluffy, custard-topped cake is a must-taste Dresden classic.

Cafés in Dresden

Indulge in a magical evening on the River Elbe with a sophisticated dinner cruise aboard onne of Dresden’s iconic historic paddle steamers. Drift past the illuminated old town while enjoying a gourmet menu, accompanied by the sublime sounds of a live classical concert.

Book your cruise here

Day 3 in Dresden: Sunday

Begin your morning at Germany’s most significant Renaissance palace and immers yourself in the opulent history of Dresden’s former rulers. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely afternoon wandering through the city's historic old town, taking in the breathtaking atmosphere. Savour final, unforgettable highlights before bidding a fond farewell to this unique city.

Das historische Grüne Gewölbe im Residenzschloss Dresden // The Historic Green Vault in the Residenzschloss (Royal Palace) Dresden — © Dirk Brzoska

Step back in time at Dresden's Royal Palace, a spectacular Renaissance masterpiece housing centuries of Royal history and dazzling treasure chambers. Marvel at the opulent Royal State Apartments of Augustus the Strong and uncover the glittering secrets of the Green Vault at the majestic heart of the historic old town.

Visit Dresden's Royal Palace

On your final stroll through Dresden's old town, step inside the breathtaking Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), take a selfie in the majestic Zwinger courtyard, and savour an ice cream in the sunshine on Brühl’s Terrace, overlooking the Elbe and its banks.

Church of Our Lady

Leave Dresden with wonderful memories, lots of photos, and undoubtedly a few beautiful souvenirs packed away in your luggage.