Dresden
Currency
Euro (EU)
Language
English, German
Best Time To VISIT
Getting around
Walk, Bus
Table of Contents
Things to do?
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Top 10 Attractions
1. Frauenkirche
Frauenkirche is a symbol of Protestant faith in the Region. The baroque architecture, was hardly damaged during World War II bombing of Dresden.
2. Bruehl's Terrace
Brühl’s Terrace at the Elbe River overlooks Dresden’s Old Town. Named after Bernardo Bellotto (Canaletto). The german painter, evoke views of the City.
3. Zwinger Palace
The Zwinger Palace is constructed in Baroque Style. The Palace was built as a pleasure home for Saxony’s ruler, Augustus the Strong.
4. Semperoper
The Semperoper is home to the Saxon State Opera. Hosting different performances around the year. Find architectural styles, like Renaissance and Baroque.
5. Gemäldegalerie
The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister is a Museum. Hosting one of the largest collections of old master paintings in the world. Covering Titian and Rembrandt for example.
6. Residenzschloss
The Residenzschloss was the residence of the Saxon rulers until the 19th century. The Palace houses a collection of artworks, furniture and artifacts.
7. The Green Vault
The art museum Green Vault contains jewelry, sculptures and the Green Diamond. Have a Walk and discover it.
8. Schloss&Park Pillnitz
The Schloss & Park Pillnitz located on the banks of the Elbe River. Offers tours and activities, such as riverboat rides and park bike tours.
9. Kunsthofpassage
In Dresden, Germany, is an alley called the Kunsthofpassage. Situated in Neustadt neighborhood with many art installations.
10. Sächsische Schweiz
In East Germany, discover Sächsische Schweiz. The national park hosts trails likeBastei Loop and Malerweg. The top walks in the Sächsische Schweiz National Park.
Frauenkirche
Dresden's Resurgence
Location: Neustadt District.
Open: Daily, 10am to 6pm.
Ticket Fee: Free.
What is it? The Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, represents the past of Dresden. Destroyed not long before the Second World War ended. Up to the start of the rebuilding effort in 1993, the Frauenkirche ruins stood as a monument in the center of the city. Since 2005 the Frauenkirche has been opened to the public. The Church of Our Lady is one of the biggest stone domes north of the Alps. The ancient stones were saved and utilized again whenever possible during the renovation. Forging a strong link to the church’s history. As a symbol of hope and a fine example of baroque architecture. Enter the top of the church in order to have nice city views.
Why to go? The Frauenkirche is a representation of Dresden’s soul. Climb up the dome to get amazing views of the city. A trip to the Frauenkirche allows a moment to consider the value of reconstruction following destruction and the force of peace.
Bruehl's Terrace
Balcony of Europe
Location: Inner Old Town Dresden.
Open: Daily, 24/7.
Ticket Fee: Free.
What is it? The “Balcony of Europe” is another charming name for the Brühl Terrace. Built in the 16th century as part of Dresden’s fortifications. The Brühl family is honored by the name Brühl’s Terrace. Which, in the 18th century, commissioned the promenade’s construction. Standing between the Augustus Bridge and the Carola Bridge. Covering a distance of about 500m. Today being an architectural ensemble, and important sight in the city. The Elbe River flowing at your feet and the Dresden skyline unfolding before you. The Brühl Terrace. The terrace’s cultural appeal is enhanced by the several beautiful sculptures and architectural treasures.
Why to go? Brühl’s Terrace is the ideal location for taking perfect pictures and absorbing in Dresden’s atmosphere. Stroll along the promenade. The Terrace offers views of the city, while serving as a nice retreat from the city core.
Zwinger Palace
A Baroque Bonanza
Location: Inner Old Town Dresden.
Open: Daily from 10 to 6pm (closed Mondays).
Ticket Fee: Entrance fee applies.
What is it? The Dresden Zwinger continues to influence the city’s perception and evokes memories of the opulent baroque era. Augustus the Strong ordered the creation of a artwork situated between the inner and outer walls of the city. The Zwinger’s name translates to “the place between the fortifications” highlighting its original location between the city walls. The architects, Matthaeus Daniel Poeppelmann und Balthasar Permoser completed the project. The Zwinger today houses the museums of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden. Inside you find the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments, the Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Porcelain Collection. The Zwinger is a cultural playground waiting to be explored.
Why to go? Anyone who like art, architecture, or just a nice dose of grandeur, visit the Zwinger Palace. Walk hallways, be amazed by minute details, and lose yourself in the works of art. A window into Dresden’s artistic and cultural history is provided by The Zwinger.
Semperoper
Where Music Meets Majesty
Location: Theaterplatz Square.
Open: Varies depending on the performance schedule (check website for details).
Ticket Fee: Ticket prices depending on the performance.
What is it? Enter a dramatic fantasy where excitement is in the air. A premier location for opera, ballet, and classical music events. The Semperoper. Commonly referred to as the Dresden State Opera House. The stage of this opera house has been visited by famous performers and has a long history. Whatever your level of expertise with opera. From professional enthusiast to general curiosity in high culture. The Semperoper promises to be an amazing event. Given its shaped auditorium and excellent acoustics. The opera house guarantees that every note of the performance echoes flawlessly. Twice in its history has the Semperoper burned down. Yet each time it has been restored, demonstrating its cultural significance.
Why to go? Immerse yourself in the world of classical music and theatrical grandeur by the Semperoper. Go to a performance, lose yourself in the music, and enter a different dimension. A guided tour of the opera house is a great way to enjoy its history and architecture. Even if you are unable to attend a performance.
Gemäldegalerie
A Feast for the Art Lover's Eyes
Location: Housed within the Zwinger Palace Complex.
Open: Daily, 10am to 6pm (closed on Mondays).
Ticket Fee: Entrance fee applies (check website for current prices).
What is it? The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, or Old Masters Picture Gallery is a collection of top class masterpieces. One of the most known paintings ever created is located in Dresden. Raphael’s “Sistine Madonna”. Pleasing visitors to the permanent exhibition for more than 250 years. Italian Renaissance painting is the main focus of the Gemäldegalerie. Explore important pieces by Parmigianino, Giorgione, Titian, Correggio, Mantegna, and Botticelli. The collection of 17th century Dutch and Flemish painters is equally significant. Plenty of works by Rembrandt and his school can be found here. Magnificent works by Old German and Old Dutch painters, such as van Eyck, Dürer, Cranach, and Holbein, as well as pieces by Spanish and French painters from the 17th century, are also on exhibit. Constructed in accordance with Gottfried Semper’s plans. The gallery building represented one of the most important museum undertakings in German history. When it opened its doors in 1855. The so called Semper Building still serves as the collection’s home. The collection was kept secure and hidden in a mine throughout World War II surviving the destruction that followed. A tour through the development of European art from the 14th to the 18th centuries is provided by Gemäldegalerie.
Why to go? The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister is good place to visit when you are into art or you desire to engage in artistic expression. Be in close contact to famous pieces of art, understand the meaning behind each brushstroke, while remaining the beauty’s timeless power. Connect with Europe’s artistic past and the innovative minds that molded its history is possible at the gallery.
Residenzschloss
A View into Royalty
Location: Theaterplatz Square.
Open: Varies depending on the specific exhibition (check website for details).
Ticket Fee: Entrance fee applies.
What is it? The Frauenkirche, the Zwinger, the Semperoper, and right in the middle: Residenzschloss, or Royal Palace. In Dresden’s old town, architectural highlights lead into one another. Hard to believe that the Residenzschloss was only recently renovated. Due to the fact that during the bombing raids on Dresden in February 1945, it was nearly entirely burned down. The underground rooms and the old green vault were remained intact. For centuries the Saxon Electors and Kings occupied the Residenzschloss, or Dresden Royal Palace. This architectural wonder has hallways filled with priceless artwork, fine furnishings, and tapestries. Containing in total more than 400 rooms. The Residenzschloss is one of Germany’s biggest palaces. The Green Vault, a historic treasury displaying an amazing collection of jewels, gold, and antiques, is housed in the palace.
Why to go? The Residenzschloss transports you to step back in time. Truly experience the grandeur of royal life. Wander through opulent chambers, and courtly intrigue. The palace museums delve deeper into the history of Saxony’s rulers, see the insights into their lives, passions, and legacies.
The Green Vault
A Treasury Fit for Royalty
Location: Housed within the Residenzschloss.
Open: Daily, 10am to 6pm (closed on Mondays).
Ticket Fee: Entrance fee applies.
What is it? Gold, rock crystal and diamonds all seem to be compete for your attention. Belonging to August the Strong’s treasury. From 1723 until 1729, he build the collection. Securing their survival, the treasures of the Green Vault were carefully hidden during World War II until uncovered decades later. The Residenzschloss’s is where historic and new Grünes Gewölbe come together. A selection of exhibits are displayed in the Neues Grünes Gewölbe (New Green Vault), which is illuminated behind glass. While the Historisches Grünes Gewölbe (Historic Green Vault) lets visitors immerse themselves in the treasury’s faithfully recreated rooms. Inside the Residenzschloss the original vault rooms had been adorned with malachite pillars. Giving rise to the name “Green Vault”.
Why to go? The Green Vault offers only a one time opportunity to view the wealth of European nobility. See diamonds, and a collection that captures the artistic and cultural movements of the past. The Green Vault serving as doorway to an extravagant and opulent universe.
Schloss&Park Pillnitz
Rococo Gem in a Green Oasis
Location: Pillnitz District, Dresden.
Open: Varies depending on the specific section.
Ticket Fee: Entrance fee applies.
What is it? The former summer residence of the Saxon royal family is the biggest chinoise palace complex in Europe. The Pillnitz park has exquisite ponds, themed gardens, quaint pavilions, and masterful landscape architecture. Tucked away on the banks of the Elbe River lays this Rococo beauty. At any time of year, you are welcome to enjoy an stroll through the royal park. Which is home to about 2.000 trees, and 600 plants. The 230 year old camellia is a unique plant of the botanical garden. It is visible from its walk in shelter from the middle of February until the middle of April when it is in bloom. The majority of the plants at the Palm House are from Australia and South Africa. Information on the history of the palace complex and the courtly lives of its occupants may be found in the palace museum in the New Palace. The Catholic Chapel presents a modern perspective on the palace’s religious life.
Why to go? The beautiful retreat of Schloss & Park Pillnitz can be reached near the city center. Move in fresh air, admire Rococo architecture, and meander through tranquil gardens. This sophisticated complex is ideal for a getaway with the family or a peaceful afternoon.
Kunsthofpassage
A Courtyard Canvas Come to Life
Location: Neustadt District.
Open: Daily, 24/7.
Ticket Fee: Free.
What is it? 20 years ago, the idea was born to revitalize run down courtyards in Dresden’s Neustadt District. A showcase project began to take shape with the Kunsthöfe. Located between Alaunstrasse 70 and Görlitzer Str. 25. This reflects the goal of balancing living, working, and life. So step into a secret world where everyday buildings transform into artistic masterpieces. The Kunsthofpassage, or “Courtyard of Art Passages”, is a hidden find in Dresden. Every courtyard adopts an individual concept. Take a tour of the Courtyard of Animals, Courtyard of Light, Courtyard of Elements, Courtyard of Mythical Creatures, and Courtyard of Metamorphoses. This system of interconnecting courtyards is a colorful explode of street art, with sculptures, murals, and architectural elements that each reflecting a different story.
Why to go? Dresden’s creative soul can be uniquely observed at the Kunsthofpassage. Leave the crowds of tourists behind and find a secret realm where artistic expression abounds on every wall and cobblestone. For those who enjoy eccentric charm, art fans, or photographers, this place is ideal.
Sächsische Schweiz
Nature Lover's Paradise
Location: 30km Southeast of Dresden.
Open: Daily, 24/7.
Ticket Fee: Free.
What is it? Sächsische Schweiz is Germany’s only rock National Park. The Elbe Sandstone Mountains present an interesting microclimate and is home to a true wealth of animal and plants. The environment has been eroded to an rough beauty of Cretaceous origin. The Bastei Bridge, a sandstone bridge with incredible views of the surroundings, is located in the park. Trek through karst formations and ascend to views. Or just take a stroll down the river and enjoy the peace. Rock climbers from all across Europe travel to the Sächsische Schweiz , which is an appreciated climbing location. A pleasant get away from the city and an opportunity to come back in touch with nature can be found in Sächsische Schweiz.
Why to go? Sächsische Schweiz creates the perfect day trip for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Let the city behind you, breathe in fresh air, and experience the majesty of nature. This park is a great opportunity to hike, or bike. Not to forget to simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
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