Dresden, the capital of the German state of Saxony, is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its baroque architecture, museums, and beautiful parks, Dresden is a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to dive into the city’s rich history or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through its streets, Dresden will not disappoint. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best attractions and things to do in Dresden, so you can plan an unforgettable visit to this enchanting city.
The 22 Best Family Activities in Dresden
- From Dresden Pillnitz Palace and Saxon Switzerland Day Tour
- Dresden Theatrical Poison Ghosts and Demons Tour
- Dresden Fatima the Secret Lover 1 Hour Tour
- Dresden 15 Hour Guided Tour of Pillnitz Castle
- Dresden Guided Bus Tour to Stollen Bakery With Tasting
- Historic Dresden Semperoper Walking Tour in German
- Dresden Semperoper Tickets and 45 Minute Guided Tour
- Dresden Scavenger Hunt in German
- Dresden Castle Skip the Line Entry 2 Day Hop on Hop Off
- Scavenger Hunt Through Historic Dresden
- Dresden Albertinum Museum Entry Ticket
- Dresden Guided Tour of the Volkswagen Transparent Factory
- Dresden Christmas Sightseeing Tour With Pflaumentoffel
- The Great Dresden Sightseeing Multi Stop Bus Tour
- Dresden 1 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus Panometer Entry More
- Dresden Night Watchman Tour at the Blue Hour in German
- Dresden Zwinger Skip the Line 2 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus
- Dresden Christmas Markets at Advent
- Dresden City Card
- 15 Hour Dresden City Center and Loschwitz Bridge Boat Tour
- Dresden Comedy Bus Tour in German
- City Game Dresden Discover Friedrichstadt
The 22 Best Family Activities in Dresden
1. From Dresden Pillnitz Palace and Saxon Switzerland Day Tour
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Saxon Switzerland and the grandeur of Pillnitz Palace Park on this day tour. Our certified tour guides will lead you through an excursion in a comfortable convertible bus, offering rich insight into the local flora, fauna, and history of the area. The guided tour includes a visit to Pillnitz Palace, once a summer residence of the Saxon kings, where you will be awed by the splendid architecture and gardens of the palace grounds.
After exploring the palace, you will be taken on a scenic journey through the Elbe Valley and Saxon Switzerland, immersing you in the natural beauty of the region. The tour offers you the opportunity to witness the unique rock faces of Saxon Switzerland, providing an ideal living environment for a variety of wildlife. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable excursion into the heart of Saxon Switzerland and the grandeur of Pillnitz Palace Park.
2. Dresden Theatrical Poison Ghosts and Demons Tour
Discover the mystic side of Dresden’s Old Town with the Dresden Theatrical Poison Ghosts and Demons Tour. On this private or shared guided tour at night, you will meet your theatrical guide, who will bring a fictional tale to life as you explore the city. Your guide will tell the story of a young beauty who used a spell of love to tie the elector John George III to her, and who arranged the relationship between her daughter and the heir to the throne John George IV. Throughout the tour, you will learn about the guide’s story and see the sights of Dresden after dark. This unique and entertaining experience is a must-do for visitors wanting to discover the city’s mystical side.
3. Dresden Fatima the Secret Lover 1 Hour Tour
On this one-hour walking tour, you’ll be guided by Fatima, the exotic mistress of Augustus II the Strong, through the history of A Thousand and One Nights in Dresden. Explore the touch of the Orient that was brought to the city by the beautiful young and intelligent Ottoman woman. You’ll hear colorful stories of parties, personal hygiene, porcelain, and the preparation of the well-loved Turkish drinks and graceful dances that are part of their dazzling emergence. At the end of this authentic tour with a costumed guide, you’ll know how coffee became an important tradition for Saxons, and you might even feel a strong desire for a steaming cup of coffee yourself. Join us and enjoy an animated tour of Dresden with a unique oriental twist.
4. Dresden 15 Hour Guided Tour of Pillnitz Castle
Discover the grandeur of Pillnitz Castle on a guided tour through its Baroque-themed grounds. Your costumed guides will accompany you from the “Alte Wache” to the Riverside Palace where guests would arrive by Venetian gondolas for lavish feasts, masquerade balls, theater performances, illuminations, and more. Along the way, the Countess von Brühl will explain civilized etiquette to prepare you for the evening’s formal ball. In the pleasure garden, you’ll learn about the subtle art of Baroque society games and hear stories about the bygone festivities. The tour concludes with a visit to the palace gardens where you’ll discover the secrets to the art of fem in the shadows of the colossal hedges. Join us for a day of elegance, history, and beauty on this 15-hour tour.
5. Dresden Guided Bus Tour to Stollen Bakery With Tasting
Discover the Dresden Christstollen baking tradition on this tasting tour at a traditional stollen bakery. Enjoy a ride in a double-decker bus to the bakery while taking in scenic views of Dresden. Learn about the secrets of the world-famous Christmas biscuits from an expert stollen baker during a guided tour of the show bakery. Taste the original Dresden Christmas stollen and enjoy a cup of coffee from the in-house roastery with your stollen. Take the opportunity to purchase the specialty at special prices and enjoy drinks on the bus. This experience is perfect for those who want to learn more about the history of the Dresden Christstollen and indulge in delicious treats.
6. Historic Dresden Semperoper Walking Tour in German
Discover the historic side of Dresden and walk in the footsteps of Augustus II the Strong on this guided walking tour. Marvel at the grandeur of Dresden’s Baroque treasures and explore the history of music on a tour of the Semperoper opera house. Your tour includes guided visits to Dresden Castle, the elegant Dresden Zwinger gardens, the world-famous Frauenkirche, and the impressive cathedral. You’ll also receive tickets for museums. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Join us for an unforgettable experience in historic Dresden!
7. Dresden Semperoper Tickets and 45 Minute Guided Tour
Visit the famous Semperoper in Dresden and embark on a guided tour to explore its rich history and magnificent architecture. You will be amazed by the elaborately decorated rooms and distinctive acoustics of the auditorium. The tour includes a Semperoper admission ticket, a guided tour and a license for taking photos. This is definitely a must-see attraction when visiting Dresden, and an unforgettable experience for any opera lover. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to discover the prestige and history behind each turn of this historic opera house.
8. Dresden Scavenger Hunt in German
Discover the sights of Dresden’s Neustadt in a creative and fun way with your children on a scavenger hunt walking tour. This interactive stroll through Dresden is designed to keep your kids entertained and engaged, and you’ll have a blast too. The tour combines sightseeing with a fun scavenger hunt, allowing you to both explore the city and solve puzzles at the same time.
The tour is perfect for families with children between 4 and 10 years old, and you can pause at any time for a break, to take photos, or to visit a playground. You’ll receive a box with 11 sealed numbered envelopes, each containing a clue to help you sleuth your way through Dresden’s new town. After solving each puzzle, you’ll receive a number for the next envelope to be opened.
The order in which you open the envelopes is not known in advance, adding an exciting element of surprise to the tour. At each point of interest, you’ll also receive detailed background information about the surrounding sights. You and your family will have a fantastic time exploring Dresden and learning more about this beautiful city in a unique and flexible way.
9. Dresden Castle Skip the Line Entry 2 Day Hop on Hop Off
Explore the best of Dresden with this 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus ticket and skip-the-line entry to the famous Dresden Castle. With 22 stops to choose from, you can easily navigate the city and discover its hidden gems. Enjoy the Turkish Chamber, extensive jewelry collection, newly opened parade rooms, and more inside the castle’s museums. If you visit between April and October, head over to the observation deck on the castle tower and enjoy a stunning view of the old town. The ticket also includes a guided Old Town Walking Tour and a Night Watchman Walking Tour. Exchange your voucher at the first stop and start your adventure worry-free. Make the most of your time in Dresden and book this fantastic combo tour.
10. Scavenger Hunt Through Historic Dresden
Discover Dresden in a whole new way with a Fun and interactive scavenger hunt through the historic city centre. The city game box contains 11 sealed and numbered envelopes, each with a riddle to solve, taking you on a walking tour around the city. Following clear and precise instructions, you’ll visit various sights, solving riddles along the way. Once you’ve solved a riddle, you’ll receive a number, revealing which envelope to open next. With the option to pause the game at any time, take a break or photos allowing you to be flexible and independent. This scavenger hunt through historic Dresden is perfect for all ages and offers a unique experience in sightseeing fun.
11. Dresden Albertinum Museum Entry Ticket
Explore the Albertinum and witness the meeting point of painting and sculpture, East and West, and today and tomorrow. This tour includes an Albertinum entry ticket and a chance to see various artworks from the Romanticism to Contemporary periods, and the sculpture collection from 1800 onwards. Admire works from the German Romantic artist Caspar David Friedrich and walk around the famous sculpture called The Thinker by Auguste Rodin, the trailblazer for numerous artistic styles that crystallized in the twentieth century. This is a must-see for art enthusiasts who want to witness a wide range of artworks from different periods.
12. Dresden Guided Tour of the Volkswagen Transparent Factory
Delve into the inner workings of the Volkswagen car factory in Dresden on a guided tour focused on the assembly process of electric vehicles. Learn about the future of mobility through a fascinating overview of the process of manufacturing e-automobiles, which requires a combination of top-quality craftsmanship and high-precision work. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insight and outlook into the topic and answer all of your questions. This exciting opportunity to learn about how these cars are manufactured and the production process of e-mobility and digitalization is not to be missed.
13. Dresden Christmas Sightseeing Tour With Pflaumentoffel
Get into the holiday spirit in Dresden on this guided Christmas tour with an original Pflaumentoffel, a traditional figure of Dresden. Hop on a heated double-decker bus and take in panoramic views while touring three Christmas markets for a taste of local holiday cheer. See local products and treat yourself to festive foods and drinks while experiencing the most festive holiday spots in Dresden. The tour comprises a 1-hour Christmas city bus tour accompanied by a Dresden Pflaumentoffel guide. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and get ready to celebrate the holiday season in style in one of Germany’s most picturesque cities.
14. The Great Dresden Sightseeing Multi Stop Bus Tour
Experience Dresden, the capital of the State of Saxony, on an exclusive double-decker bus tour. Hop off and on as much as you like for an entire day to admire the unique cultural monuments on offer. Marvel at historic Dresden’s baroque architecture and bask in the sunshine on the open-topped bus.
Your journey starts on the Theatre Square near the Augustus Bridge. Decide for yourself whether to take the uninterrupted 90-minute tour or hop off and enjoy the city’s splendors at your own pace. Your ticket includes diverse attractions and entry fees to various monuments around Dresden, including a visit to the most beautifully decorated dairy in the world.
Accompany the Dresden Night Watchmen on their rounds and hear interesting stories about the famous Frauenkirche as you tour its elegant architecture. With this tour, you’ll have an opportunity to explore this “Florence on the Elbe” and discover the city’s rich art collections and river views.
15. Dresden 1 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus Panometer Entry More
Enjoy two of Dresden’s must-do activities at an attractive combined price with the Dresden 1 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus Panometer Entry More tour.
Embark on a sightseeing bus tour of Dresden and discover multiple highlights in the city for one great price. The bus tour includes 22 different stops and an open deck, weather permitting. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a night watchman walking tour, an old town walking tour, and transport to the castle and park in Pillnitz from the same central meeting point location with your 1-day ticket.
Extend your hop-on-hop-off ticket for a further day (for €2 extra, not included) and take advantage of all the inclusions listed above if you find that your time is limited.
The tour also includes a visit to the multimedia exhibition at Panometer Dresden. Immerse yourself in the fascinating display at the Panometer and explore the city’s history like never before.
Experience the best attractions and things to do in Dresden with the Dresden 1 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus Panometer Entry More tour.
16. Dresden Night Watchman Tour at the Blue Hour in German
Explore the beautiful Old Town of Dresden with a historical night watchman at the Blue Hour. Discover Dresden at dusk and admire the impressive sights in the illuminating evening light. Sip on Schlummertrunk, a small alcoholic drink before visiting the main highlights like Semper Opera House, Dresden Frauenkirche, Zwinger, Dresden Castle, Fürstenzug, Schlossplatz Dresden, and Brühl’s Terrace. Look forward to spooky stories during a classic night watchman tour. Admire the historical Frauenkirche and other amazing views before finishing at the Dresden Frauenkirche. The night watchman tour includes a tour guide, 1 small liqueur (“Schlummertrunk”), and attraction tickets. Please note that itineraries are subject to change.
17. Dresden Zwinger Skip the Line 2 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus
Enjoy two of Dresden’s must-do activities at an attractive combined price with this 2-day hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus ticket and day-ticket for all museums in the Zwinger. Skip the line at the newly reopened Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister and benefit from 22 different bus stops to discover Dresden’s many attractions. Your 2-day ticket also includes a Night Watchman walking tour, an Old Town walking tour, and transport to the castle and park in Pillnitz. All activities start at the same central meeting point location: Postplatz/Kronentor Zwinger. Don’t miss out on this great way to see the city and its popular sites like the Zwinger – created as a magnificent festival site in the heyday of the Baroque period.
18. Dresden Christmas Markets at Advent
Experience the colorful hustle and bustle of the Dresden Christmas markets with this guided city tour. You will see the most beautiful places in Old Town and learn about Dresden Stollen, Pflaumentoffel (dried fruit figurines), and Ore Mountain woodcarvings while surrounded by enticing scents and sparkling lights. During the tour, you’ll discover the city’s three most beautiful Christmas markets, find out more about Christmas traditions in Saxony, and stroll through the festively-decorated Old Town. You will also have the opportunity to see the Semper Opera, the Zwinger, and the Frauenkirche. In addition, you’ll get to try an original Dresden stollen. This tour includes a tasting of Dresden stollen and is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.
19. Dresden City Card
The Dresden City Card offers a range of discounts and benefits to help you make the most of your stay in the Saxon capital. With the card, you can enjoy free transportation on buses, trams, and S-Bahn, as well as discounts on popular attractions such as the Dresden Transport Museum, the Carl-Maria-von-Weber Museum, and the City Museum. Additionally, you can take advantage of discounts on city tours, concerts, theater shows, dining, and shopping.
For instance, the card offers discounts on a City Sightseeing Tour, which stops at 22 popular attractions in Dresden. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more lighthearted, you can opt for the Comedy Tour Dresden or even the Segway Tour Dresden. If you’re interested in culture, you can take a tour of the Semperoper, one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Lastly, the card includes a discount at the Herkuleskeule comedy club.
Plan your trip around your interests and save money with the Dresden City Card!
20. 15 Hour Dresden City Center and Loschwitz Bridge Boat Tour
Discover Dresden’s charm and history on a 15-hour boat cruise down the Elbe River. Pass by the Elbe bridges and see the famous Loschwitz Bridge up close, while enjoying the calm breeze in your hair. This sightseeing boat tour will take you to the most beautiful landmarks of the Elbe Valley and historic old town of Dresden.
Relax on the boat trip down the Elbe, with great views of the Elbe Palaces and tuck into local and tasty food and drinks available to purchase on board. An audio commentary will be provided via on-board announcements or through an app, giving you more insight into the history and charm of Dresden, from a different perspective.
21. Dresden Comedy Bus Tour in German
Experience Dresden’s rolling comedy stage as two hilarious comedians have the bus roaring with laughter. Explore the city in a fun and unique way on this 90-minute round trip and show with a bus. Enjoy a great mix of comedy, historical anecdotes, and spontaneous humor while getting to know Dresden. See the real-life locations of the jokes, including the Zwinger, the Dresden Frauenkirche, the Saxon Parliament, the Yenidze, and the Loschwitz Bridge. Don’t miss out on the Canaletto View. This tour includes a comedy bus ride, a German-speaking tour guide, as well as transportation to and from the meeting point. Experience a live show that combines comedy with sightseeing and enjoy Dresden from a unique perspective. Get ready to have fun and laugh while exploring Dresden with our Dresden Comedy Bus Tour in German.
22. City Game Dresden Discover Friedrichstadt
Explore Dresden’s Friedrichstadt in a unique way on this scavenger hunt city tour. Start by finding 11 closed and numbered envelopes in the city game box provided. Inside each envelope, a riddle is waiting for you to solve it. Follow the clear directions on foot or by bike, and solve each riddle to be guided around the tourist attractions in a unique way. Receive a number as the solution of each riddle to tell which envelope is next. You won’t know beforehand in which order to open the envelopes of the scavenger hunt city tour, making it a fun and interactive stroll through Dresden. This tour is perfect for families with children between 6 and 12 years who want to discover the sights of Dresden. You can pause the game at any time to take a break or take photos, and it’s ideal for school classes looking to combine a fun scavenger hunt with sightseeing. Learn all about the history and today’s function of each landmark as you explore Friedrichstadt in a unique way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dresden: All You Need to Know
If you’re planning a trip to Germany and looking for an offbeat destination, consider adding Dresden to your itinerary. Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, famous for its Baroque architecture, world-class museums, and stunning landscape. However, like any other city, Dresden has its own set of quirks and unique features that tourists should be aware of before traveling. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Dresden to help you plan your trip.1. What Is Dresden Known For?
Dresden is known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking architecture. The city is located in the eastern part of Germany and was once the capital of the Kingdom of Saxony. Dresden was heavily destroyed during World War II but has since been rebuilt to its former glory. Some of the most famous landmarks in Dresden include the Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, and the Opera House.2. When Is the Best Time to Visit Dresden?
The best time to visit Dresden is between May and September when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing. During this time, you can enjoy open-air concerts, street festivals, and outdoor markets. If you’re interested in seeing the city’s legendary Christmas markets, plan your trip between late November and early January.3. How Do I Get to Dresden?
Dresden has its own international airport called Dresden International Airport, which is located about 10 km north of the city center. The airport is served by a number of major airlines, including Lufthansa, Eurowings, and Ryanair. You can also reach Dresden by train from other major cities in Germany, such as Berlin and Munich.4. What Should I Do While in Dresden?
Dresden has a lot to offer for both history buffs and art enthusiasts. Some of the must-see attractions in Dresden include:- The Zwinger Palace: a stunning Baroque palace that houses numerous museums and galleries
- The Frauenkirche: a beautiful Baroque church that was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the 1990s
- The Green Vault: a museum that displays the treasures of the Saxon monarchs
- The Dresden Castle: a former residence of the Saxon electors and kings that now houses a number of museums
- The Semper Opera House: one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances
5. What Is the Currency Used in Dresden?
The currency used in Dresden is the Euro, which is also the currency used in most other European countries. You can easily exchange your currency for Euros at banks and exchange bureaus throughout the city. Most major credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.6. Is English Spoken in Dresden?
Yes, many people in Dresden speak English, especially in the tourism industry. However, outside of tourist areas, it’s not uncommon to encounter people who don’t speak English. Knowing a few basic German phrases can be helpful, especially when interacting with locals.7. What Is the Food Like in Dresden?
Dresden has a rich culinary heritage, known for its hearty meat dishes, savory soups, and sweet pastries. Some of the local specialties include:- Sauerbraten: a hearty beef dish marinated in vinegar and spices
- Kartoffelsuppe: a creamy potato soup
- Dresdner Eierschecke: a layered cake made with eggs, cream, and quark
- Stollen: a traditional Christmas fruit cake
8. What Are Some Day Trips I Can Take from Dresden?
Dresden is surrounded by a number of charming towns and picturesque landscapes that make for great day trips. Some of the most popular day trips from Dresden include:- Meissen: a town famous for its porcelain and wine
- Saxon Switzerland National Park: a stunning landscape of sandstone rock formations and forests
- Moritzburg Castle: a Baroque palace surrounded by lush gardens and a serene lake
- Leipzig: a vibrant city with a rich musical history, birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Dresden
Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany with a rich cultural and historical legacy. From its iconic Baroque architecture to its museums and green spaces, Dresden offers plenty of attractions for tourists of all ages. This guide will help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this wonderful city.1. Visit the Zwinger Palace
The Zwinger Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Dresden. Built in the 18th century, this Baroque masterpiece houses several museums and galleries, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery, the Porcelain Collection, the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments, and the Zoological Museum.The Old Masters Picture Gallery is a must-see attraction for art lovers, featuring works by famous artists such as Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Titian. In the Porcelain Collection, you can see more than 20,000 pieces of Meissen porcelain, including some of the world’s most exquisite pieces.2. Take a Stroll around the Altstadt
The Altstadt, or Old Town, is where you’ll find some of Dresden’s most beautiful buildings and picturesque streets. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the Baroque architecture and charming shops and cafes. You can also visit Dresden’s famous Frauenkirche, a stunning 18th-century church that was destroyed during WWII and rebuilt in the 1990s.3. Explore Dresden’s Green Spaces
Dresden has several parks and gardens where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. The Grosser Garden is one of the largest parks in Dresden, featuring a variety of themed gardens, fountains, and ponds. You can also visit the Botanical Garden, which has more than 10,000 plant species from around the world.4. Visit the Dresden State Art Collections
The Dresden State Art Collections is one of the oldest and most important museum complexes in the world. It comprises twelve museums, including the Green Vault, the New Masters Gallery, and the Turkish Chamber. In the Green Vault, you can see some of the world’s most impressive treasures, including jewels, gold, and silver objects.5. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
Dresden is located in a region of Germany that has several other attractions that are well worth visiting. You can take a day trip to the Saxon Switzerland National Park, which is famous for its stunning landscapes and rock formations. You can also visit the Meissen Porcelain Factory, where you can see how Meissen porcelain is made and buy some souvenirs.6. Attend a Concert or Opera Performance
Dresden is known for its rich music heritage and is home to several renowned orchestras and opera houses. The Semper Opera House is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and offers a variety of performances throughout the year. The Dresden Philharmonic and the Staatskapelle Dresden are also worth checking out.Book Your Tour Now
Dresden is a city that has something for everyone, from art and history to nature and music. By following this guide, you can plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this wonderful city. Don’t forget to visit the Zwinger Palace, take a stroll around the Altstadt, explore Dresden’s green spaces, visit the Dresden State Art Collections, take a day trip to nearby attractions, and attend a concert or opera performance.
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