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Planning a trip to Germany? If so, Dresden needs to be on your itinerary! Read more for 12 things to do in Dresden – perfect for a day trip.
If you’re searching for a city that effortlessly combines baroque beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural life, look no further than Dresden – the jewel of Saxony. Known for its striking skyline, world-class museums, and picturesque setting along the Elbe River, Dresden offers the perfect escape for culture lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers alike. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or planning a full day trip to Dresden, this city is bound to impress.
This perfect day trip itinerary will guide you through 12 must-see attractions in Dresden, from iconic landmarks like the Zwinger Palace and Frauenkirche to hidden gems nestled in the Neustadt district. With so many top things to do in Dresden, it’s easy to see why this city deserves a spot on every Central European travel list.
Thanks to its convenient location and excellent transport links, getting to Dresden is a breeze! You can either visit by train from Berlin or Prague, or drive through the scenic Saxon countryside. Once here, you’ll be welcomed by a city that blends old-world elegance with a youthful, creative energy.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best attractions in Dresden. I’ve been to this city three times now and simply can’t get enough of its beauty. From historical sites to local favorites, this one-day itinerary is your ticket to experiencing the very best of Dresden.
This post is all about things to do in Dresden.
FAQs about visiting Dresden
Is Dresden, Germany worth visiting?
Dresden is absolutely worth a visit. Often called the “Florence on the Elbe,” the city is famed for its stunning baroque and rococo architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned art collections. Beyond the grandeur of the restored Old Town, Dresden has a lively creative scene, charming neighborhoods like the Neustadt, and plenty of green spaces to unwind. Whether you’re into history, art, or simply soaking in scenic views, Dresden offers a well-rounded experience that feels both authentic and unforgettable.
What to do for a day in Dresden?
With just one day in Dresden, you can still see many of the city’s top highlights. Start your morning in the historic Old Town (Altstadt) with must-see landmarks like the Zwinger Palace, Semper Opera House, and the rebuilt Frauenkirche. Stroll along the Brühl’s Terrace for panoramic views of the Elbe River, then cross into the Neustadt to explore Dresden’s more alternative, artsy side. This blog post is all about what to do in Dresden, so make sure to continue reading for more details!
How much time is needed in Dresden?
While one full day is enough to see many of Dresden’s key attractions, spending two to three days allows for a deeper experience. With extra time, you can add a trip to the stunning Saxon Switzerland National Park. A combination of these two spots makes for the perfect weekend trip from Berlin. In addition, there are several stunning nearby attractions worth a visit from Dresden. Two of my favorites are Moritzburg Castle and Wackerbarth Winery.
Read More: Weekend Trip to Saxon Switzerland National Park
How to get to Dresden
Getting to Dresden is fairly simple. While Dresden does have it’s own airport, I imagine anyone most visitors will be flying into Berlin and then exploring from there.
From Berlin, you can either drive, take a train, or even a bus. For a day trip in Dresden you definitely don’t need a car. However, if you’re planning a weekend trip and want to explore Saxon Switzerland as well, then a car may be a good idea. From Dresden, you can only visit some places in the national park by public transport. If you are interested in renting a car in Germany, then I highly recommend booking a rental through Sunny Cars. I have been using them for years and love their quick service, low prices, insurance policies, and flexible cancellation policies!
Getting to Dresden by public transport from Berlin is a breeze. For a convenient and comfy ride, definitely book a train between these two cities. The journey takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes by train. While this is the ideal way to travel between cities, tickets can cost anywhere between 14 – 55+ euros for a single ticket, so it’s not always the budget-friendly option. If train ticket prices are too high when planning your trip, consider taking the FlixBus instead! You can take a direct FlixBus which takes around 2.5 hours in total. The typical price per ticket is around 15 euros making it ideal for last-minute bookings.
Day trip to Dresden vs. weekend trip to Dresden
Dresden makes for an excellent day trip destination, especially if you’re coming from a nearby city like Berlin. In just one day, you can explore many of the top attractions in Dresden, including the Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and Semper Opera House, all located within the compact and walkable Old Town. Having been to Dresden several times, I honestly do think you can see the best of the city in one day.
However, if you truly want to experience the best things to do in Dresden, a weekend trip is highly recommended. In two to three days, you can dive deeper into the city’s rich cultural offerings, walk through the Grand Garden, and enjoy a more relaxed pace. A weekend stay also allows time for exciting day trips from Dresden, such as hiking through the breathtaking rock formations of Saxon Switzerland National Park, sipping wines at the scenic Wackerbarth Winery in Radebeul, or exploring the fairytale-like Schloss Moritzburg, just a short drive from the city.
These nearby attractions, combined with the stunning architecture of Dresden, make a weekend trip the perfect way to truly soak in all that this Saxon gem has to offer. Whether you’re a culture lover, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a romantic escape, spending a weekend in Dresden is definitely worth it.
When to visit Dresden
The best time to visit Dresden depends on the kind of experience you’re after, but each season offers its own charm. Spring and summer (April to August) are ideal for exploring the city’s architectural treasures and outdoor landmarks, like the Zwinger Palace and Brühl’s Terrace, under clear skies and mild temperatures. You’ll find the city buzzing with life, riverside cafés open, and festivals in full swing, perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking in Dresden’s historic beauty.
For those who love moody, atmospheric vibes, fall (September to October) is a fantastic time to visit. The changing colors in Dresden’s many parks and along the Elbe add a romantic touch, and the crowds start to thin, making it easier to enjoy the sights at a slower pace.
If you’re drawn to festive magic, early winter (late November through December) transforms Dresden into a holiday wonderland. The city is home to the Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets, complete with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and traditional treats.
No matter the season, Dresden delivers a memorable mix of history, culture, and scenery, but planning your visit around what kind of ambiance you prefer can make it even more special.
Where to stay when visiting Dresden
If you’re coming to Dresden on a day trip, then I highly recommend making Berlin your base. This will not only make it convenient to visit Dresden, but also to explore other day trips as well. Below you can find my recommendations for hotels in Berlin!
Best mid-range hotel: Hotel ZOE by AMANO
Best luxury hotel: JW Marriott Hotel Berlin
If you decide to come to Dresden for a weekend trip, then staying in the old city is my top recommendation. This way, everything is within walking distance. If you visit for Christmas time, then you simply must stay at the Star G Hotel in the Altmarkt. This hotel offers incredible views overlooking the Striezelmarkt (the oldest Christmas market in Germany). I absolutely loved my stay here, and think that it was worth every penny!
Best mid-range hotel: Star G Hotel Premium Dresden Altmarkt
Best luxury hotel: Hotel Suitess
12 best things to do in Dresden, Germany
1. Zwinger Castle
The Zwinger Castle Complex is by far my favorite spot in Dresden! The architecture here is seriously impressive, and the grounds are completely free to visit! If you love photography like me, then you will find that there are so many stunning photo spots around the complex. Feel free to use some of the photos below for inspiration! 🥰.
The Zwinger Castle is made up of four connecting buildings, making it a large complex. The best way to explore this area is to head up the stairs at either one of the buildings. Since they all connect at the top, you can walk around and admire the unique architecture each building has to offer. In addition, you can also get an amazing view of the old town, specifically the Residenzschloss.
The castle grounds are open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM. If you are a history and art lover, then definitely consider checking out the Zwinger Museum. It’s open daily (except for Mondays) and costs around 15 euros to enter. For tickets to visit the Zwinger Museum, click here.
2. Theaterplatz
The Theaterplatz is the most iconic square in the old town of Dresden. From this square, you will be able to see the Zwinger Castle, the Semperoper Opera House, and Dresden Cathedral. While there isn’t necessarily much to do here, the Theaterplatz is an iconic spot that you will definitely walk past while exploring the old town. Make sure to take in the views here, because they really are one of a kind!
If you happen to visit during the summertime, then you may even find some live music here!
3. Semperoper Opera House
When it comes to cultural attractions in Dresden, the Semperoper Opera House is a place you definitely don’t want to miss! Dresden was the cultural and economic center of the Weimar Republic. This can still be clearly seen when exploring Dresden, and admiring all of the unique architecture. Until today, Dresden holds a large cultural significance in Germany, and the Semperoper Opera House is an example of that.
The Semperoper Opera House was originally built in 1841, in the Baroque style that Dresden is famous for. Like most of the city, this opera house was largely destroyed during the Second World War. It took Dresden 40 years to reconstruct the opera house, and they reopened it in 1985. Today you can find a large variety of shows and concerts here, and I highly recommend that you check if anything interesting is happening here during your visit. If you simply want to admire the interiors and learn more about the fascinating history, then consider booking a guided tour instead!
4. Residenzschloss
The Residenzschloss, also known as the Royal Palace, is one of the oldest buildings in Dresden. For over 400 years, it served as the house of various electors and kings of Saxony. One of the most unique features of the Castle is its combination of architectural styles. It features the classic Baroque style that is common in Dresden, as well as some Neo-Renaissance aspects.
As with most places in Dresden, the castle was mostly destroyed in the Second World War, and restoration began in 1960. It’s been such a long ongoing process that there are some parts of the castle that only opened in 2019! The amount of restoration work that has happened in Dresden is absolutely insane. Before you visit, I highly recommend googling some photos of what the city looked like after the war. So much of the city was completely destroyed, and it’s incredible to see just how accurately it has been restored.
While the Residenzschloss is impressive from the outside, if you love palaces, then I highly recommend visiting the interior as well! The Royal Palace is open daily (except Tuesdays) and admission costs around 16 euros. Click here for admission tickets if you’re interested in visiting the Residenzschloss.
5. Frauenkirche
Frauenkirche is probably the most iconic building in all of Dresden. In English, Frauenkirche is translated into “Church of Our Dear Lady”. The church was first built between 1726-1743 but was destroyed in the Second World War. Interestingly, the restoration of the Frauenkirche started quite late, between 1993-2005.
This church is by far the most photographed spot in Dresden. While the exterior is absolutely stunning, I highly recommend going inside as well! It is a very pink church, which I found to be slightly unusual, but I absolutely love it. In addition, admission to the church is actually completely free! I have been to Dresden three times now, and each of those times I have been able to visit without any queue. That being said, I somehow always found that there was a VERY long queue later on. While visiting early in the day is probably the best option, I would recommend simply coming back later if you visit when there is a long queue. The old town of Dresden is fairly small, so you will definitely pass the Frauenkirche whether you intend to or not 😅.
Pro Tip: Most photos are taken from Neumarkt, the square in which the church is located. Personally, my favorite photo location with Frauenkirche in the background is from Bruhl’s Terrace. At the end of the terrace, you will find an amazing view over Münzgasse street, with the church in the background. Make sure to also explore the street of Münzgasse for stunning photo opportunities.
6. Hofkirch
The Hofkirche is another stunning church in the old town of Dresden. In case you haven’t realized by now, a trip to Dresden is characterized by looking at impressive buildings 😅. No, but seriously, I am not typically an architecture enthusiast, but I HIGHLY enjoyed spending my days in awe of the buildings in Dresden.
While I haven’t personally explored the interior of Hofkirche, admission should be free. I mostly admired the incredible Baroque architecture from Theaterplatz and Bruhl’s Terrace.
PS. The top of the stairs leading up to Bruhl’s Terrace makes for a perfect vantage spot for those wanting to photograph Hofkirche!
7. Fürstenzug
Fürstenzug is a unique spot that definitely deserves a spot on everyone’s Dresden itinerary. This is a large mural of the rulers of Saxony, which is mounted on the outer wall of Stallhof, which is the Stables Courtyard. The mural was painted between 1871 and 1876. While this mural was originally painted, it was replaced by porcelain tiles between 1904 – 1907 to make it weatherproof. While Dresden suffered large destruction from bombings in the Second World War, Fürtsenzug only suffered minimal damage.
8. Altmarkt
The Altmarkt is the oldest market square in Dresden. While some documents refer to this square as early as 1370, it is unclear when it was originally established. That being said, there are several sources suggesting the square was well established by the early 1400s. The Altmarkt is arguably most famous for being the hosting location of the world-famous Striezelmarkt, the oldest Christmas market in the world, established in 1432.
If you happen to visit during Christmas time, then this is definitely going to be a popular attraction in Dresden. That being said, there isn’t much to see in Altmarkt. During other seasons of the year, I imagine most tourists will focus on Neumarkt, which was established around 1550. The new square is where the Frauenkirche is located, making it a popular attraction. Either way, the Altmarkt is a significant place in Germany, and therefore is worth a quick visit if you have the time.
9. Brühl’s Terrace
Next up is Brühl’s Terrace, which I think is one of the best things to do in Dresden, Germany. Brühl’s Terrace is located at the edge of the Old Town, overlooking the Elbe River and the new part of Dresden. In addition to amazing views over the Elbe, there are also a lot of historical buildings lining the terrace. My personal favorite part of Brühl’s Terrace is the view it offers of the Hofkirche and Münzgasse with the Frauenkirche in the background.
If you happen to visit Dresden on a warm and sunny day, then this is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or small snack. The terrace is such a lively place, and you may even find local artists playing live music here, enhancing the atmosphere.
10. Pfunds Mölkerei
We have made it to my favorite place on this list – Pfunds Mölkerei. You may think this next part is strange, but trust me when I say that one of the best things to do in Dresden is visiting the most beautiful milk shop in the world! Located in Neustadt, Pfunds Mölkerei is a bit of a walk to reach. That being said, I honestly think it needs to be on everyone’s Dresden itinerary.
Pfunds Mölkerei originally opened in 1892 by the Pfunds brothers in Dresden. The most impressive part of the shop is the fact that all tiles are hand-painted from Villeroy & Boch. The original focus of the shop was to supply locals with high-quality regional products. This is still the case today, as visitors can enjoy a selection of local cheeses and milks. That being said, today the shop is best known for its beautiful decoration making it a popular attraction. I highly recommend visiting early in the morning when it opens for the best experience. Regardless of the crowds, I honestly think that everyone should visit this shop!
The milk shop is open most days, with Sundays and Wednesdays off. On weekdays, it’s open from 10 AM to 4 PM, and on weekends it stays open until 6 PM.
11. Kunsthofpassage
Kunsthofpassage is by far one of the most unique things to do in Dresden. If you love exploring alternative and artistic spots during your travels, then you absolutely must check out Kunshofpassage. This is a hidden courtyard complex located in Neustadt (the new part of Dresden). It’s located around a 15-minute walk from Pfunds Mölkerei, making it ideal to combine these two spots.
The courtyards each have their own theme, and you can find a mix of shops and restaurants here as well. An example includes a courtyard where there are jungle animals in the buildings. My favorite one is the elements courtyard, where pipes have been set up to turn into musical instruments when it rains. I have yet to experience the courtyard during rain, but if you happen to have some rain on your visit, then definitely head here to check out how it sounds.
12. Grand Garden
The last spot on this Dresden itinerary is the Grand Garden. If you’re visiting Dresden for a day, then it might be slightly difficult to include this in your itinerary. However, if you are visiting for a long sunny weekend, then the Grand Garden is a must-see place! To get here, you can walk for around 30 minutes from the old town. Alternatively, you can take tram 1 or 2 from Altmarkt for around 7 minutes and then walk from the tram stop for around 5 minutes.
In the middle, you will find the Grand Garden Palace, which is absolutely beautiful. There is a large garden surrounding the palace that you can easily spend a few hours exploring. I would recommend visiting on a late spring or early summer day. This is the best time to enjoy all of the blooming flowers, ensuring a picturesque visit.
That concludes my guide to the best things to do in Dresden. It’s truly such a beautiful city with such impressive architecture! It’s amazing to walk around and admire just how precisely the destroyed buildings have been reconstructed.
