Best Things To Do in Dresden

World-renowned for its architectural heritage and rich cultural history, Dresden is one of Germany's most visited cities and an ideal destination for those wishing to soak up its Baroque and Renaissance beauty. Situated on the banks of the River Elbe, the city offers unmissable views of its monuments and a captivating atmosphere.

Some of the best things to do in Dresden include visiting Dresden Castle, touring the Church of Our Lady, seeing the Augustus Bridge and exploring the historic Neustadt quarter, an epicentre of colour and culture with its Art Alley.

Dresden Castle, also known as the Royal Palace, is an iconic building that has witnessed the rich history of the city and the region of Saxony. Its construction began in the 15th century as a fortress and over the centuries it has been extended and renovated several times, incorporating elements of Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles.

Despite the devastating bombardment of the city during World War II, the castle was meticulously restored and today remains a symbol of Dresden's cultural renaissance. The site is also home to cultural institutions and museums, making it an unmissable destination for art and history lovers.

One of the highlights of this castle is the Museum of Prints and Drawings, which includes a room of works by European artists, as well as Prince George's Palace, which displays the opulence that always characterised the Saxon court. In addition, the castle is home to the treasure collection of the Princes' Chamber, which includes jewellery, weapons and objects that belonged to local royalty.

The architecture of the building is undoubtedly one of its greatest attractions. Its ornate façade with elaborate sculptural details and balconies welcomes you to the luxurious halls and corridors, which you can explore in depth if you decide to book a guided tour of Dresden Castle.

If you want to see one of the most photographed places in the city, you can't miss the Church of Our Lady of Dresden, known in German as Frauenkirche. This building is one of the city's most representative monuments and is an outstanding example of Baroque architecture. In addition, its great dome, which reaches a height of 91 metres, has made it a landmark on the skyline of this destination.

Frauenkirche is not only known for its architecture, but also for its rich history. After being destroyed in 1945, the ruins of the church stood for decades as a reminder of the conflict, until the national government promoted an ambitious restoration project in the mid-1990s.

Inside the Frauenkirche you can visit the sculptures, frescoes and the marble high altar. The acoustics of the building are exceptional, making it a popular venue for classical music concerts and cultural events. In addition, the dome offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck.

Frauenkirche's location is also ideal for exploring other sites nearby. Within walking distance are the Market Square, the Zwinger (a baroque palace housing important art collections) and the Old Masters Gallery, which displays works by artists such as Raphael and Rembrandt. One of the best ways to get to Frauenkirche is to book a Segway tour of Dresden, which includes a stop at the Frauenkirche.

Kunsthofpassage, better known as Dresden's Art Alley, is a complex of pedestrian streets noted for its unique architecture and colourful murals. Located in the Neustadt district, this place is a haven for artists, creatives and culture lovers.

The Kunsthofpassage consists of five interconnected courtyards housing art studios, galleries, craft shops, cafés and restaurants, all surrounded by a bohemian atmosphere that has made this alley a must-see destination for those looking to experience local contemporary art.

The history of the Kunsthofpassage dates back to the late 19th century, when the area was developed as a residential area. However, it was not until the 1990s that it began to transform into an artistic centre. Artists and designers took the initiative to revitalise the old buildings, giving them a new purpose with colourful murals and decorative elements.

One of the highlights of the alley is the Casa del Agua, famous for its canals that collect rainwater, creating a sonorous spectacle when it rains. The courtyards also host art exhibitions, fairs and cultural events. You can get there by public transport or by booking a Dresden bike tour.

One of Dresden's most fascinating attractions is the Brühl Terrace, known as the Balcony of Europe. Built between 1738 and 1843, this terrace was designed as a promenade for the aristocrats of the time and is situated on the castle wall, giving it a privileged position and offering sweeping panoramic views of the city. It is named after Count Heinrich von Brühl, who promoted its construction.

Over the centuries, Brühl Terrace has been a meeting place for locals and tourists alike, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The terrace is adorned with gardens, sculptures and benches, making it a perfect place to stroll, relax and enjoy the natural and architectural beauty of Dresden. It is also a great place to take pictures of Dresden.

The Brühl Terrace is also close to several points of interest, such as the Dresden City Museum, the famous Frauenkirche and the Semper Opera House, which also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Saxony's rich cultural heritage. This terrace is also often included in some of the city's most eye-catching experiences, such as the Dresden Nightwatchman tour.

The Princes' Parade, known in German as the Fürstenzug, is one of Dresden's most famous works of art and a symbol of Saxon history. This tile mural, which stretches along a wall of more than 100 metres, depicts local dukes and kings from the 12th to the 19th century. The work was created in 1904 by the artist Wilhelm Walther and consists of approximately 25,000 porcelain tiles.

The history of the Princes' Parade goes back to a tradition of representing nobility, reflecting the grandeur of the Wettin family, which ruled Saxony for centuries. This mural is not only a testament to the royal lineage, but also captures significant historical moments and cultural elements of the region.

In addition to its historical significance, the Princes' Parade is in a prime location, right next to the Royal Palace in Dresden and very close to the Transport Museum or the Church of Our Lady and the Zwinger.

If you want to see one of the city's best exhibits, don't miss the Dresden Transport Museum, which combines a comprehensive overview of the history of transport and mobility in the region of Saxony as well as in the rest of Germany. Opened in 1952, the museum houses exhibits ranging from land and air vehicles to waterborne means of transport.

In the museum's halls , you can explore more than 100 years of transport history. Exhibits include steam locomotives, trams, classic automobiles and aeroplanes, each with its own story to tell. One of the highlights is the train collection, which includes restored vintage models that offer a glimpse into the development of railways in Germany.

If you decide to buy tickets for the Dresden Transport Museum, you can dive into the engineering and design of vehicles throughout history, as well as access simulators and interactive videos that allow you to discover images from different eras.

If you want to visit one of Dresden's most iconic industrial sites, you can't miss out on booking tickets to the Meissen Porcelain Factory, which was founded in 1710 and is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. Located only about 25 kilometres from the city centre, this site is famous for having been the first porcelain producer in Europe and for being responsible for popularising the industry worldwide.

At this factory you can learn all about the porcelain production process. The tour includes a visit to the manufacturing facilities, where you can watch the craftsmen in action creating pieces ranging from tableware to decorated sculptures. There are also exhibitions on the traditional techniques of hand-painting and moulding, and a look at how the way of working has evolved over time.

The Meissen Porcelain Manufactory also has a museum housing a collection of historical pieces, including masterpieces from different periods, from elegant Saxon court tableware to elaborate decorative figures from the late 19th century.

The Baroque Zwinger Palace is one of the purest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. Located in the heart of Dresden, its construction began in the 18th century and it originally served as a venue for celebrations and events of the Saxon court. Over the years, the Zwinger was transformed into a palace complex housing a series of gardens, fountains and buildings that served as a leisure space for the aristocracy.

The utility of the Zwinger has evolved over time. Today it has become an important cultural centre that included art collections and treasures of the Saxon royal family. However, after the devastation suffered during World War II, the Zwinger was extensively restored.

At the Zwinger you can admire the building's architecture, characterised by its façades, ornamental sculptures and meticulously designed gardens. In addition, one of the Zwinger's main attractions is its art collection, which includes the Old Masters Gallery, where you can see works by renowned artists such as Raphael, Rembrandt and Vermeer.

The Zwinger can be reached on your own by public transport or as part of a Segway tour of Dresden, which includes a stop at the Zwinger.

The Großer Park is one of the largest green spaces in Dresden and a place that invites visitors to enjoy nature and tranquillity in the middle of the city. Its history dates back to the 18th century, when it was designed as a hunting garden for Elector Augustus II of Poland. Over time, the park was transformed into an urban oasis where locals and tourists alike can relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The park covers over 140 hectares and is adorned with meadows, paths and ponds, making it an ideal place for walks, picnics and outdoor activities. One of the highlights of the park is the historic Grosser Garten Palace, a building that houses a small museum and a café where visitors can enjoy refreshments while taking in the surrounding views.

Another attraction within the Großer Garten is the Dresden tramway, which offers a scenic tour of the park and its surroundings. Visitors can also find playgrounds for children as well as sports fields. During the summer months, the park comes alive with cultural events, concerts and festivals, adding a lively and festive atmosphere to the natural surroundings.

Near Großer Park, visitors can explore other notable attractions, such as Dresden Zoo, which houses a variety of animals and is an ideal place to enjoy a family day out.

The Augustus Bridge, which crosses the Elbe, is one of Dresden's most famous bridges and an important landmark connecting the Old Town with the riverbank. Opened in 1731, this bridge became an engineering feat of its time and its construction marked a milestone in connecting the city, allowing easier access that promoted trade in the region.

The design of the Augustus Bridge is a remarkable example of the Baroque style, with arches and decoration including statues of mythological figures and heroes from Saxon history. Over the years the bridge has undergone several renovations, especially after the city rose from the ashes following the damage suffered during World War II However, despite the changes, it has managed to retain its historic character and regional relevance.

One of the most important features of the Augustus Bridge are the panoramic views it offers. From its structure you can enjoy a full view of the Elbe River, as well as the buildings that adorn the Dresden skyline, including the iconic Church of Our Lady and the Zwinger Palace. These views are especially captivating at dusk and at night, when the city lights reflect on the water and create a magical atmosphere.