With the help of our travel guides, organizing a trip to Dresden, Germany, is a breeze. Check out our curated list of the best things to do in Dresden, Germany, and the best places to visit in Dresden, Germany, below. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that aspires to disrupt the travel industry.
Table Of Content
- Albertinum
- Brühl’s Terrace
- Dresden’s Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche)
- Dresdner Residenzschloss
- Dresden State Art Collection (Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden: SKD)
- Dresden Transport Museum
- Elbe
- Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister
- Meissen
- Moritzburg Palace
- Palace of Culture (Kulturpalast Dresden)
- Pillnitz Palace and Gardens
- Saxon Switzerland
- Semper Opera and Theaterplatz (Semperoper)
- Stallhof Dresden
- The Georgentor and the Procession of Princes
- The German Hygiene Museum
- The Great Garden and Zoo
- The Japanese Palace and the Golden Horseman
- Zwinger Palace
- Explore Europe
Albertinum
Experience works of art spanning the Romantic era to the present day.
A single visit to the Albertinum enables people to see masterpieces of art from Romanticism, Expressionism, Impressionism, New Objectivity, and contemporary art from 1800 to the present in one place.
The magnificent Renaissance Revival Albertinum on Brühl’s Terrace, constructed between the years 1884 and 1887, is just as impressive as the world-class art collection that it houses.
For contemporary art collected after 1843, the “Skulpturensammlung” building currently houses the New Masters Gallery.
The exhibition features various artists and genres, from Degas and Goya to Max Liebermann.
The Sculpture Collection is another one of the museum’s most popular attractions.
It features works of art not only from Greece, Rome, and Etruria but also from western Asia and Egypt.
You can either go into the museum itself or sit outdoors in the shadow of its imposing presence and look out over the bank of the Elbe river.
Address: Tzschirnerpl. 2, 01067 Dresden, Germany
Brühl’s Terrace
Allow yourself some leisure time to wander along “The Balcony of Europe.”
Steps leading from Schlossplatz led to a private garden that was opened to the public in 1814 on the location of the city’s original ramparts in 1738.
The sculpted groupings that can be found on the stairway are meant to symbolize morning, noon, evening, and night, and the only piece of the old garden that has been preserved is the Dolphin Fountain.
The terrace dates back to when Dresden’s defenses were being built, and it is connected to the cathedral through a ceremonial staircase.
Heinrich von Brühl, a German nobleman, built a series of opulent mansions hereafter the fortifications were demolished in the 18th century.
There are beautiful views and stunning statues and architecture to be seen when you stroll down the promenade these days.
As you go along the terrace, you’ll pass the Saxon Supreme Court (Sächsisches Ständehaus) and the Academy of Fine Arts (Kunstakademie).
Seize the opportunity and include it in your Dresden itinerary!
Address: Georg-Treu-Platz 1, 01067 Dresden
Dresden’s Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche)
The magnificent Frauenkirche lures you to come and see it!
Frauenkirche, Dresden’s magnificent Gothic cathedral, has undergone one of the most extraordinary restorations in Germany, if not in the entire world.
The baroque original was regarded as one of Europe’s most magnificent churches when it was completed in 1743
The rubble of the former building was cataloged and preserved for use in its restoration after it was destroyed by Allied bombardment in 1945.
It reopened in 2005 with over 4,000 original stones included after the reunification of Germany in 1990 when preparations to rebuild overgrew.
A gold cross donated by the United Kingdom, whose bomb had caused much of the damage, topped it all off as a sign of international solidarity.
The vastness of the inside is a sight to behold. Baroque flourishes are accentuated in gold on the reconstructed high altar, and tiers of galleries line its walls.
Take a lift to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city, attend a service once a month, or catch one of the more than 100 concerts here each year.
See the twisted remains of the crucifix that once adorned the dome for a few quiet moments of reflection on your visit!
Address: Georg-Treu-Platz 3, 01067 Dresden
Dresdner Residenzschloss
Have a glimpse of the royal place’s breathtaking structure!
Located in the center of Dresden, the Royal Palace is one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful structures.
From the 16th century until the late 19th century, the Saxon Electors and Kings lived in this Renaissance palace.
It displays a stunning diversity of architectural styles from the Renaissance, Romantic, Baroque, and neo-Renaissance eras.
Many of the city’s historically and artistically significant buildings were destroyed during World War II. Still, this one was spared demolition when the war ended.
The castle now contains five significant museums, where you can find various artifacts, including coins, sketches, pictures, paintings, prints, armor, and more.
Much like the Zwinger, it is being used as an ensemble of museums for the numerous governmental collections.
Visit the Dresden Armoury, a fantastic collection of ceremonial armor, weaponry, and regalia, and the Turkish Chamber to see one of the most significant Ottoman art collections outside Turkey.
Come and explore the palace’s treasures and collections!
Address: Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden, Germany
Dresden State Art Collection (Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden: SKD)
A place where you can find artistic expression
The Dresden State Art Collection is located within the Dresden Royal Palace.
It is one of the wealthiest and probably the oldest public museum in Europe and one of the most cutting-edge and forward-thinking institutions in displaying and explaining its treasures to visitors.
The importance of Augustus the Strong’s personal garden tools and the opulent court attire and delicate needlework on display are all discussed.
As a result, all the labels and background information are available in English.
The non-reflective glass cases in which the magnificent items from the renowned Green Vault are displayed.
The original Green Vault, substantially destroyed with the rest of the palace during World War II, has been rebuilt to house some of the collection in its original settings.
Artifacts from the 14th to 18th centuries that had been taken to safety at the beginning of the conflict are included in this remarkable collection.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Dresden’s Museums and relive the glory of the ancient time!
Address: Taschenberg 2, 01067 Dresden
Dresden Transport Museum
Take an extraordinary voyage into the world of transport, on the road, at sea, and in the sky!
One of Dresden’s Neumarkt’s oldest buildings is home to the Verkehrsmuseum, a museum dedicated to the history of transportation in Dresden.
The Transport Museum was formed in 1952 with the University of Transportation (Hochschule für Verkehrswesen) in the German Democratic Republic (GDR).
Enticing displays feature a wide range of historic vehicles, from aircraft to steam engines to automobiles, motorbikes, and boats.
In the hull of a ship, visitors can examine the maritime history, technology, and the lives of those who lived and worked on the rivers and seas for over a millennium.
In addition, there are displays on the development of motorized vehicles and the construction of railways.
Three hundred twenty-five square meters of model railroad track are covered by 26 engines and 115 vehicles, depicting Saxon communities and scenery.
Additionally, there is an activity zone for kids and a room for special exhibitions.
Dig into some history and knowledge about German Transportation in this museum!
Address: Augustusstraße 1, 01067 Dresden, Germany
Elbe
Embark on an adventure on a classic paddleboat!
An excursion boat fleet operated by the Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt, or “Saxon Steamship Company,” is stationed under Brühl’s Terrace along the Elbe, where it runs past Dresden’s city center.
There are a variety of cruises to choose from, some of which are as short as 90 minutes and focus on the city and its environs, while others are longer and transport passengers beneath the stunning rock towers of Saxon, Switzerland.
Tickets for travel between 14 cities along the Elbe can also be purchased, making this an easy method to get to Pilnitz Palace or Meissen.
A day ticket that offers the opportunity to get on and off the train at any time is a convenient way to spend the day touring the towns along the Elbe.
Another alternative for exploring the river is to go on a lunch or evening cruise or one of the special departures that revolve around a topic.
You’ll discover more about the city’s history during a boat trip on Dresden’s Elbe River!
Address: Dresden Basin, Germany
Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister
Recognize the history of European art through the ages!
The Sempergalerie at the Zwinger houses one of the most impressive collections of Renaissance art globally, with works from Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Flanders.
The works of the Old Masters Picture Gallery and the Sculpture Collection up to 1800 are displayed, which have undergone substantial renovations in recent years.
Visitors to Dresden’s Kunsthistorisches Museum may expect a one-of-a-kind tour of European art history.
It can only be fully comprehended in Dresden based on the indisputable main works of the individual epochs, unlike any other German museum.
Aside from a thorough but rigorous structure remodeling, several artworks were restored, and frames were either gilded or built new.
Sculptures and paintings are given their best appearance thanks to the extensive use of accent lighting.
The colors of the red, green, and blue fabric cover the aid of the wall in finding one’s way around.
Overall, this creates a stunning impression that is unmatched in the industry.
Uncover a lot of masterpieces created throughout the years, so pay a visit to this museum!
Address: Theaterplatz 1, 01067 Dresden, Germany
Meissen
Who would have thought that porcelain could make the town’s global brand name?
Meissen is best exemplified in its porcelain figurines, which have an utterly faultless finish.
Visitors will see the finest ceramics and an attractive town that has been in existence for more than a thousand years.
Nearby Dresden, Meissen has initially been the seat of the long-standing Wettin dynasty and is accessible by day trip.
The Albrechtsburg Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the town and river, served as their residence.
Take the funicular if you don’t want to deal with the tiring ascent through winding streets instead.
As one of Europe’s best secular constructions of the late Gothic period, the castle was built in the early 15th century, and its most notable feature is its enormous spiral staircase.
The vaulted ceilings are embellished with 1870-era paintings.
The Early Gothic Meissen Cathedral, built in 1260, sits on the rock next to it.
If you’re traveling along the Saxon Wine Route and want to stop for a glass of wine, you’ll find plenty of cozy wine bars along the way.
Have a stroll here at Meissen, and a lot of discoveries await you on your holiday!
Address: Domplatz 1, D-01662 Meissen
Moritzburg Palace
You will feel like you’re in a fairy tale at the glance of this lakeside palace!
Moritzburg Castle is undoubtedly the most beautiful moated castle in Saxony.
An impressive hunting lodge and summer palace in the ochre and white style of Saxon Baroque.
Schloss Moritzburg is located around 14 kilometers to the north-northwest of Dresden.
You’ll have to walk through a sprawling park home to a man-made island amid a lake to get there.
It was the rural hideaway of Elector Augustus the Strong, which he went there when he needed a break from his palace in Dresden and wanted to spend some time in the countryside.
From a simple hunting lodge built in 1544, this beautiful palace was transformed into its current appearance with the addition of Baroque statuary to the carriage ramp and terrace handrails between 1723 and 1736.
Hunting trophies, gold leather decor, and a feather room are among the treasures on display at this historic building today.
Explore some of the other intriguing and ancient regions like the Moritzburg Palace of Saxony, just a short drive away from Dresden.
Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg
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Palace of Culture (Kulturpalast Dresden)
Catch the “House of Socialist Culture” with your eyes!
After a comprehensive makeover of its interiors, it was given a new lease of life as a state-of-the-art home for the Dresden Philharmonic.
Dresden’s new Kulturpalast is a house of the arts and knowledge, a meeting site, and a platform for discussion.
After much debate, the blatantly Soviet external mural known as “The Red Flag” and the wall fresco “Our Socialist Life” were allowed to remain, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to see GDR Dresden.
With dramatic red seats cascading down to a central podium and folding ceilings and walls to produce superb acoustics.
The auditorium’s appearance may be influenced by Eastern Modernism, but its inside is decidedly contemporary.
The Dresden Philharmonic performs in the freshly completed Concert Hall, the building’s centerpiece.
Located in the center of Dresden’s musical district, it serves as the “primary address” for both local orchestras and visiting stars.
Make your way to the cultural center in the heart of the city!
Address: Schloßstraße 2, 01067 Dresden
Pillnitz Palace and Gardens
A rare jewel right in the middle of Dresden
Pillnitz is generally made up of a triad of manor houses known as the Wasserpalais, Bergpalais, and the Neues Palais.
To host costume events and sports competitions for his court guests, Augustus the Strong had a pair of Baroque summer palaces built alongside the Elbe in the 1720s.
They are furnished in the fashionable Chinoiserie style of the time, and they face each other across a garden.
After some time, Pillnitz was chosen to serve as the summer house for the royal family.
In 1820, the construction of the neoclassical New Palace began, which would later serve as the third side of the Pleasure Garden.
Over the years, the gardens grew and extended, each new addition reflecting the likes and customs of its time, until they covered all of the estate’s 77 acres.
These landscapes are particularly appealing because of how seamlessly Neoclassical, Baroque, and English landscape styles coexist.
Get inspired by the stunning combination of architecture and wander along with the landscaping in Dresden, right on the Elbe River.
Address: August-Böckstiegel-Straße 2, 01326 Dresden, Germany
Saxon Switzerland
Allow yourself to be mesmerized by this old and mythically gorgeous natural setting.
Saxon Switzerland National Park, 30 kilometers southeast of Dresden, is a popular day-trip destination because of its rugged terrain with towering limestone pillars.
Climbers can choose from more than 700 summits. At the same time, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders can explore the park’s 400 square kilometers of defined trails, steep hikes, and walkways.
The Bastei Rocks provide the best view of the Elbe Valley and the neighboring table ranges.
One of Europe’s most magnificent natural open-air theaters may be found below the viewpoint in Rathen during the summer season.
The Koenigstein Fortress, located on the opposite bank of the river farther upstream, is the largest fortress complex in Germany.
It towers over the small town that shares the same name.
S-Bahn trains leave Dresden twice an hour to take visitors to Saxon, Switzerland.
There are also several options for getting there via vehicle, boat, or by one of the world’s oldest paddlewheel steamboats and the most romantic way.
Enjoy your time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life here in Saxon, Switzerland!
Address: Southeast of Dresden, Germany
Semper Opera and Theaterplatz (Semperoper)
Witness world-class performances of opera, ballet, and music in concert!
Named in honor of its architect Gottfried Semper and completed in 1878, Dresden’s opulent opera house is a prestigious destination for performing arts worldwide.
Dresden’s cultural life would be incomplete without the Semperoper, whose diverse repertoire appeals to both ballet and concertgoers.
Eclecticism could be a better description of this style, which draws on a wide range of inspirations, as was usual throughout this period.
In 1869, a fire destroyed the building, and it had to be rebuilt.
This time around, the building was damaged during the final stages of World War II in 1945 by Allied bombing and the accompanying firestorms.
The Semper Opera House has been restored to its former condition, with the exception of a few modern conveniences.
On the bank of the Elbe River in the middle of Dresden’s historic district is where you’ll find the Opera House.
Reserve your ticket, take a seat, and watch the heartwarming performances only in Semperoper!
Address: Theaterplatz 2, 01067 Dresden, Germany
Stallhof Dresden
The iconic Dresden structures all-around cast a shadow on the Electoral Reissige Stall.
There are few remaining traces of Dresden’s Renaissance glory, and this is one among them.
The courtyard, built by Elector Christian I in 1591, was used for various events, including ring jousting, tournaments, and hunts.
Two bronze columns created by Giovanni Maria Nosseni resemble the latter, in whose rings the knights were required to strike their lances while galloping full speed ahead.
The arcade gallery with Tuscan arrangement along the lengthy corridor unquestionably represents southern Germany’s mature Renaissance style.
The arches are adorned with trophies and weapon reliefs.
During the Second World War, the stable yard was badly damaged.
As of 1957, there has been no completion of the reconstruction.
Fortunately, the upper floor, gallery, and most of the exterior were fully repaired.
Dresden’s State Art Collections include a gallery accessible to the public.
Horse shows, cultural events, and theater productions are held in the Stall Courtyard these days.
Being in a place where various horse-related events are being held with a touch of incredible architecture will always be a great part of an itinerary!
Address: Stallhof, 01067 Dresden, Germany
The Georgentor and the Procession of Princes
Admire the beautiful murals around the castle’s wall.
For centuries, Georgentor, or Georgenbau as more often known, was one of the most important Renaissance landmarks.
An equestrian statue of Duke George stands on the west side of the old building’s gateway, which has a magnificent sculptural design.
An enormous painting depicting a procession of princes (Fürstenzug) is found on the external wall of Dresden Castle’s marvelous Stables Courtyard.
Most of Saxony’s monarchs from 1127 to 1918 are represented in this outdoor mural, which begins with Konrad the Great.
The penultimate person in the Procession of Princes is the artist, who included himself in the painting.
When the original sgraffito pottery artwork faded, it was replaced with 25,000 Meissen ceramic tiles and is currently the world’s largest porcelain mural.
The painting takes on a mystical quality when night falls because of the lighting.
Address: Schloßstraße 1, 01067 Dresde
The German Hygiene Museum
We tend to forget about pandemics. However, not at this museum.
An institution that promotes health education and a healthy lifestyle was formed in Dresden in 1912 and is housed on Lingnerplatz, which is located southeast of the city’s historic center.
An extension of Dresden’s Grand Garden, a vast Baroque-style park, stands just outside. The museum is housed in numerous rigidly constructed rectangular blocks and courtyards.
Windowed facades and piers at the front of the tall central block create an imposing entryway.
Two lower wings expand forward to create a formal entrance court.
Visitors can walk through the transparent entrance hall, which connects to an inner courtyard with the exhibition wings at its back.
Medical history and practices take center stage at this museum, which goes above and beyond what its name might suggest.
Iconic displays include the famous Glass Woman, initially exhibited in 1930, and a permanent exhibit on the human race. This fun, interactive children’s museum focuses on the senses.
Learn something new from the museum’s collection of hygiene-related artifacts.
Address: Lingnerpl. 1, 01069 Dresden, Germany
The Great Garden and Zoo
Get a nice view of Dresden’s Greenery and Wildlife at the heart of the city!
As early as 1676, a French Baroque-style garden known as the Great Garden was created and has been open to the public since 1814.
Plants of more than a thousand different kinds can be found at the Großer Garten, the edge of the city’s largest and oldest park.
There are several ways the Botanical Garden Dresden is integrated into research and academic instruction at Technische Universität Dresden today.
The Dresden Zoo is not only one of the most well-known places for people to go for recreation in this part of Germany, but it is also one of the oldest zoos in the country.
It is home to around 1,400 animals, representing over 235 different species.
All of which are housed in contemporary cages that are intended to simulate natural habitats as closely as possible.
Go on a journey of learning more about the history of this magnificent garden and explore its untamed animal kingdom!
Address: Tiergartenstraße 1, 01219 Dresden, Germany
The Japanese Palace and the Golden Horseman
Night strolls? These places are the perfect ones for you.
In Dresden Neustadt, the city’s newest district in the Neustädter Markt, a statue of Augustus the Strong, dressed as a Caesar and riding a horse, may be found across the river from the city’s old area.
The city’s most famous landmark, the Golden Horseman, was built in 1736 and is frequently referred to as such.
One of the city’s most popular spots for an evening stroll, it is situated at the entrance of the lengthy Hauptstrasse, an expansive boulevard with a central tree-lined promenade.
Built in 1737 in a Baroque and Neoclassical style, the Japanese Palace, also known as the Japanisches Palais, is another notable landmark nearby.
The building is lavishly decorated with Chinoiserie.
It was originally constructed to house Augustus the Strong’s collection of porcelain, which is now known as the Dresden Porcelain Collection.
However, it now serves as the home of the State Museum for Prehistory and the Museum of Ethnology Dresden.
Add this to your itinerary and learn about the German culture and history more!
Address: Palaisplatz 11, 01097 Dresden
Zwinger Palace
Indulge your inner nobility at Zwinger Palace.
Located in the city’s heart, the Zwinger is one of Germany’s outstanding representations of Baroque architecture and a popular tourist attraction.
This spectacular series of buildings, which dated back to the years 1710 to 1732 and was constructed during that time period, can be seen directly across the street from Dresden Castle.
The Zwinger is comprised of six breathtaking pavilions and was first intended to host tournaments and was also the location of a variety of court activities.
The 32-bayed Long Gallery adorns its southern side. At the same time, the Wallpavillon and the Nymphenbad (Bath of the Nymphs), both symmetrically arranged pavilions, flank their eastern and western flanks.
As of today, the palace contains a number of museums, including a vast ceramics collection and an armory that displays Germany’s military weapons.
Fountains, elegant decorations, and stunning architecture adorn the perfect landscape.
If you’re in Dresden, make a point of strolling through the palace grounds and taking in all the splendor.
Are you still on the fence about visiting Dresden, Germany? Visit why visit Dresden, Germany, at least once in your lifetime here.
Address: Sophienstraße, Dresden, Germany
