What to do in Dresden? The best things to see in Dresden and surrounding Elbland.
Baroque palaces, impressive art collections, historic paddle steamers and vineyards just half an hour from the city centre: Dresden genuinely surprised us.
We travelled overnight by train from Antwerp to the capital of Saxony and spent four days exploring Dresden and the surrounding Elbland region. It certainly wasn’t a day too many. Although many travellers see Dresden as a classic two-day city break, one of the city’s greatest assets actually lies beyond its historic centre.
Hop on tram 4 and barely half an hour later, you can be walking among the vineyards of Radebeul.
Add one of Germany’s most beautiful historic city centres, fascinating museums, castles along the Elbe and Saxon wine, and it soon becomes clear why we were glad we allowed ourselves a little more time here.
Wondering what to do in Dresden? These are our favourite sights, experiences and places to visit.
Table of content
1. Explore Dresden’s historic Altstadt
If you are visiting Dresden for the first time, it is hard to believe just how much history is concentrated within its relatively compact city centre.
The Frauenkirche, Semperoper, Zwinger, Residenzschloss, Hofkirche and Brühl’s Terrace are all within walking distance of one another. You will hardly need public transport at all when exploring the Altstadt.
Yet much of what you admire in Dresden today has only been restored to its historic appearance in recent decades. The city suffered extensive destruction during the Second World War, after which many of its monuments were painstakingly reconstructed. What makes Dresden so remarkable is that the result never feels like a historical film set. Old and new blend almost effortlessly, giving the city a character that feels both historic and alive.
One of the first things we noticed while walking around was the dark sandstone of many of the buildings. At first, we assumed it was pollution or soot. We later learned that the typical Elbe sandstone contains iron. As it oxidises, the stone darkens, creating a natural protective layer at the same time. In Dresden, the passage of time is quite literally visible on its buildings.
Don’t miss the Fürstenzug
On the outer wall of the Stallhof you will find one of Dresden’s most impressive works of art: the Fürstenzug, or Procession of Princes.
Stretching for more than 100 metres, this spectacular procession of Saxon rulers is made up of thousands of tiles produced by the famous Meissen porcelain manufactory. Remarkably, the artwork survived the bombing of Dresden in 1945 almost completely intact.
Take your time here. From a distance, you mainly see an imposing historical procession, but look more closely and you will discover how much detail is hidden in the tiles.
2. Climb the dome of the Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche is probably Dresden’s most recognisable landmark.
After the destruction of the city, the church was meticulously reconstructed, with as many of the original stones as possible reused. As a result, you can still clearly distinguish the darker historic stones from the lighter new ones in the façade.
Inside, the church is surprisingly bright and elegant. If you would like to see Dresden from above, you can also climb to the top of the dome. The viewing platform offers a beautiful panorama over the Altstadt and the Elbe.
Tip: combine your visit to the Frauenkirche with a walk along nearby Brühl’s Terrace.
3. Walk along the ‘Balcony of Europe’
Brühl’s Terrace stretches above the banks of the Elbe and was once nicknamed the Balcony of Europe.
From here, you can look across the river towards the Neustadt. Behind you stand several impressive buildings, including the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts. Its distinctive glass dome is affectionately known by locals as the Zitronenpresse, or lemon squeezer.
We particularly enjoyed wandering around here towards the end of the day, without any real plan.
4. Step inside the Semperoper
Even if you are not attending an opera performance, we would definitely recommend taking a guided tour of the Semperoper.
The building is already impressive from the outside, but it is only once you step inside that you begin to appreciate the extraordinary level of craftsmanship involved.
Much of what appears to be marble, for example, is actually carefully worked plaster. During our tour, we learned how craftsmen spent hundreds of hours polishing and painting the decorative details.
The acoustics were also meticulously studied during the reconstruction of the opera house. The Sächsische Staatskapelle, one of the world’s oldest orchestras, is closely connected with both the Semperoper and Dresden’s long musical history.
Guided tours are available in German and English. Timings vary according to the performance schedule, so it is worth checking availability in advance. Here you can find more information.
5. Visit the Residenzschloss and Grünes Gewölbe
If you only have time for one museum complex in Dresden, we would choose the Residenzschloss.
The former royal palace of Saxony is essentially several museums under one roof. Highlights include the Rüstkammer armoury, the Türckische Cammer, the historic State Apartments and the famous Grünes Gewölbe, or Green Vault.
What fascinated us most was the philosophy behind the restoration of the palace.
Rather than choosing one specific period in its history, different sections were restored to the era in which they were considered to have looked their best. The courtyard, for example, once again reflects its late-Renaissance appearance, while other rooms evoke the splendour of the reign of Augustus the Strong.
A 16th-century ‘television tower’
And then there is one extraordinary object that stopped us in our tracks.
Standing 117 centimetres tall, this slender ivory artwork with its twisted shaft, pierced sphere and small polyhedron on top inevitably brings a futuristic television tower to mind.
Except that it dates from the late 16th century.
Even more remarkably, it was not purely decorative. Hidden inside the base was a mechanical musical device. Figures moved, musicians played their instruments and tiny servants revolved around a laid table.
It is one of those objects that makes you realise just how sophisticated technology already was several centuries ago.
6. Discover the Zwinger
Another of the most famous Dresden attractions is the magnificent Baroque Zwinger.
Even if you do not plan to visit any of its museums, it is worth walking through the courtyard and along the galleries simply to admire the architecture.
Art lovers, however, should make time for the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, home to works by artists including Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens and Vermeer.
7. Explore Loschwitz and the Blue Wonder
Fortunately, Dresden does not end at the Altstadt.
The hop-on hop-off bus or public transport will easily take you to Loschwitz, a charming district beside the Elbe.
Its most striking landmark is the Blaues Wunder, or Blue Wonder, an impressive blue-green steel bridge connecting Loschwitz with Blasewitz.
At the foot of the bridge, you will find a pleasant neighbourhood of historic houses and inviting terraces.
Following a recommendation from our guide, we also stopped at Bäckerei Wippler for a Winzerbrot: warm bread topped with tomato, melted mozzarella and pesto.
Simple, but exactly what we needed at that moment.
8. Enjoy the view from Lingnerschloss
Not far from the Blue Wonder, three elegant Elbe Castles rise above the river.
We walked up to Lingnerschloss, where the terraced gardens offer wonderful views across the Elbe, the city and the surrounding hills.
It is not a landmark that demands half a day of your time, but it is precisely the kind of place that can make a city break feel special.
Sit down, order something to drink if the terrace is open and simply take some time to enjoy the view.
9. Step inside Pfunds Molkerei
Some places almost look too beautiful to be real.
Pfunds Molkerei is one of them.
The historic dairy shop on Bautzner Straße is covered from floor to ceiling in richly decorated tiles. As soon as we stepped inside, we were reminded of the azulejos we had seen in Portugal.
But don’t just look around.
We also tried the flavoured buttermilk. Even if the word buttermilk does not immediately fill you with enthusiasm, you may well change your mind here. Peach, banana and cherry transform it into something quite different.
Tip: Pfunds Molkerei is outside the historic Altstadt, so it is easy to combine with Loschwitz or the Neustadt.
From Dresden to the Elbland: vineyards by tram
This may have been our biggest surprise in Dresden.
You do not need to rent a car or book an organised excursion to discover a wine region. From the city centre, simply take tram 4 towards Radebeul.
Around half an hour later, the scenery has completely changed.
Steep vineyards, old stone walls, wineries and historic estates replace the monumental city architecture.
10. Walk through the vineyards of Radebeul
A lovely way to explore the area is to start around Weinbergstraße and slowly make your way uphill.
Several wineries and historic estates are scattered along the route.
Weingut Drei Herren
Our first stop was Weingut Drei Herren, where we were introduced to Saxon wine.
Saxony is a relatively small wine-growing region, which means its wines are much less commonly encountered outside Germany. That makes tasting them here, right where they are produced, all the more interesting.
Hoflößnitz
A little further on lies Hoflößnitz, once a wine estate belonging to the Electors of Saxony.
As well as wonderful views across the vineyards, there is a remarkable detail waiting inside: dozens of exotic birds painted across the ceiling of the banqueting hall by Groningen-born artist Albert Eckhout.
Eckhout travelled to Brazil during the 17th century and later ended up at the Saxon court.
South American birds above a Saxon wine hall: it is one of those unexpected stories we will always associate with Dresden.
11. Taste Saxon sparkling wine at Schloss Wackerbarth
Make sure you allow enough time for Schloss Wackerbarth.
Surrounded by vineyards, this beautiful Baroque estate describes itself as an Erlebnisweingut: a wine estate where the experience goes far beyond simply tasting wine.
Saxony has a wine-making tradition stretching back more than 850 years, and sparkling wine is also produced here.
Guided tours take you through the estate and production facilities and are generally combined with a tasting. The programme changes throughout the year, with seasonal experiences offered during the winter months as well.
Not interested in a tour? We would still recommend visiting. Simply enjoying a glass of wine with views over the vineyards makes the journey worthwhile.
12. See Dresden from a historic paddle steamer
For our final afternoon, we chose an entirely different perspective on the city.
At the Terrassenufer, we boarded a historic paddle steamer. The paddle wheel, unhurried pace and coffee and cake served on board gave the journey a wonderfully nostalgic feel.
We sailed beneath the Blue Wonder and past the elegant villas and Elbe Castles we had looked down on from the hills a couple of days earlier.
And somehow, it was from the water that Dresden really came together for us.
The Frauenkirche, palace towers, churches and opera house form one magnificent historic skyline along the river.
Where to eat in Dresden
Dresden offers plenty of good restaurants for a city break lasting several days. These were some of the addresses that stood out during our visit.
Alte Meister, close to the Zwinger, is a lovely choice for lunch or dinner during a day exploring the Altstadt.
For traditional Saxon cuisine in an atmospheric setting, try Pulverturm, housed in historic vaulted cellars.
For a completely different side of Dresden, cross the Elbe and explore the Neustadt. The atmosphere here is younger, more creative and more alternative than in the monumental Altstadt. Our personal recommendations: Sankt Pauli or Villandry.
Combine your visit with the colourful Kunsthofpassage, famous for its artistic courtyards and unusual rainwater pipes.
Where to stay in Dresden
Taschenbergpalais Kempinski
We stayed at the Taschenbergpalais Kempinski, right in the heart of Dresden’s historic Altstadt.
Location-wise, it is difficult to do much better. The Residenzschloss is practically next door, while the Zwinger, Semperoper and Frauenkirche are all just a few minutes away on foot.
The historic palace was originally commissioned by Augustus the Strong and today combines grand surroundings with contemporary comfort.
On arrival, we were welcomed with a glass of Saxon sparkling wine — a rather fitting introduction to the region.
omd met een glas sekt, een uitstekend begin van onze kennismaking met Saksen.
The hotel also has an attractive spa and swimming pool, perfect after a full day exploring the city.
Bilderberg Bellevue Dresden
If you are looking for an alternative with an excellent location, Bilderberg Bellevue Gardens Dresden is another option worth considering.
The hotel lies on the opposite bank of the Elbe and overlooks Dresden’s historic skyline. Cross the Augustus Bridge and you can walk into the Altstadt in around ten minutes.
Its large riverside garden is an additional advantage, particularly in good weather.
Practical tips for a Dresden city break
How do you travel from Belgium to Dresden?
We travelled on the European Sleeper from Antwerp and found it a particularly pleasant way to begin our city break.
You board the train in the evening and wake up in Dresden the next morning. There is no journey to the airport, no additional hotel night on the way and you gain almost an entire first day at your destination.
The Brussels–Prague night train stops at both Antwerp Central and Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Always check the latest timetable before booking, as schedules can change. More information: European Sleeper.
By car: Dresden is around 800 kilometres from Belgium.
By plane: Dresden has its own airport, although direct connections from Belgium are limited.
Getting around Dresden
The historic Altstadt is very easy to explore on foot.
For Loschwitz, Pfunds Molkerei, Radebeul and other places outside the city centre, Dresden’s extensive tram network is extremely convenient.
If you plan to visit several museums, it is also worth comparing the different Dresden Welcome Cards and combined museum tickets before your trip. Prices and conditions can change, so check the current options shortly before travelling. More information via this link.
How many days do you need in Dresden?
We would recommend at least three days and preferably four.
Two days are enough to see the main sights in the Altstadt, but you would miss exactly what made Dresden so special for us: Loschwitz, the Elbe and, above all, the vineyards around Radebeul.
We spent four days here and still did not manage to see everything.
What is the best time to visit Dresden?
May and June are ideal for long days, outdoor terraces and green vineyards.
September and October are particularly attractive if you want to combine Dresden with the wine region, as this is harvest season.
December is another popular time to visit, thanks to Dresden’s Christmas markets and the historic Striezelmarkt.
If museums are your main reason for visiting, Dresden is a good city-break destination throughout the year.
Frequently asked questions about Dresden
What are the must-see attractions in Dresden?
For a first visit, we would definitely recommend the Frauenkirche, Zwinger, Semperoper, Fürstenzug, Brühl’s Terrace and Residenzschloss.
If you have more time, add Loschwitz and the Blue Wonder and reserve at least half a day for Radebeul and its vineyards.
What can you do in Dresden in 3 days?
Spend your first day exploring the historic Altstadt, including the Frauenkirche, Fürstenzug, Zwinger and Brühl’s Terrace.
On day two, visit the Residenzschloss and Semperoper before heading to Loschwitz and the Blue Wonder. Use day three to explore Radebeul, combining Hoflößnitz, a few wineries and Schloss Wackerbarth.
Is Dresden worth visiting for a city break?
Absolutely. Dresden is especially appealing for travellers who enjoy combining culture, beautiful architecture, gastronomy and nature.
Many of the main attractions are close together, which also makes Dresden a particularly enjoyable city to explore on foot.
How many days should you spend in Dresden?
You can see the main Dresden attractions in two days, but we recommend three to four days.
This gives you enough time for Loschwitz, a boat trip on the Elbe and the wine region around Radebeul as well.
Can you explore Dresden on foot?
The Altstadt is very easy to explore on foot. The Frauenkirche, Zwinger, Semperoper, Residenzschloss and Brühl’s Terrace are all close together.
For attractions such as the Blue Wonder, Pfunds Molkerei and Radebeul, tram or bus is more convenient.
Can you visit a wine region from Dresden?
Yes, and in our opinion this is one of the most enjoyable surprises Dresden has to offer.
Take tram 4 to Radebeul, where you can walk among the vineyards and visit places including Hoflößnitz, Weingut Drei Herren and Schloss Wackerbarth.
Is Dresden expensive?
Compared with many other popular European city-break destinations, we found Dresden reasonably priced.
You can also explore much of the historic centre on foot, while several of the city’s most enjoyable experiences, including viewpoints and walks through the vineyards, cost nothing.
Is Dresden a good destination without a car?
Yes. For a city break, we would actually recommend travelling without one.
The centre is compact, and Dresden’s tram, train and bus network makes it easy to reach neighbourhoods outside the Altstadt as well as Radebeul.
From Belgium, Dresden can also be reached directly by European Sleeper.
Our conclusion: Dresden deserves more than two days
Before our trip, we mainly associated Dresden with Baroque architecture, impressive museums and the iconic Frauenkirche.
Four days later, what stayed with us most was the variety.
In the morning, you can find yourself face to face with centuries-old art treasures; a few hours later, you are drinking flavoured buttermilk surrounded by thousands of hand-painted tiles; and the following day, you may be walking through the vineyards with a glass of Saxon wine in your hand.
Dresden cherishes its past without being trapped by it.
And perhaps that is the best reason of all for us to return.
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