Things to do in Dresden

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A historic square with cobblestone pavement, surrounded by classical European architecture and a prominent clock tower.
A historic building with ornate facades and a prominent tower with a green spire.
A street lined with historic buildings, a busy road, and a hill with trees in the background.
A large, ornate building with a prominent dome and clock tower against a clear blue sky.
A historic building with intricate architecture, featuring a prominent tower and arched windows, partially covered in green ivy.

Dresden Attractions

Wondering how you'll keep yourself occupied in Dresden? You won't be short of things to do in this happening state capital. With so many activities and tourist attractions to enjoy, the only hard part of your escape will be deciding where to begin.

If you're ready to discover the best of Dresden, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a friendly expert show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {158 fun activities in Dresden fun activities in Dresden} are also worth looking into.

Things to do

Picture 6 for Activity Dresden: River Sightseeing Boat Cruise

Dresden: River Sightseeing Boat Cruise

$31
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Dresden: River Sightseeing Boat Cruise
Dresden: Zwinger Museum Entry Ticket

Dresden: Zwinger Museum Entry Ticket

$20
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Dresden: Zwinger Museum Entry Ticket
Dresden: The Original Night Watchman Tour in Lantern Light

Dresden: On the Road with the Mysterious Night Watchman

$18
per adult
Dresden: On the Road with the Mysterious Night Watchman
Dresden: TimeRide VR Time Travel Experience Ticket

Dresden: Virtual Reality Time Travel Experience Ticket

$26
per adult
Dresden: Virtual Reality Time Travel Experience Ticket
Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town

Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town

$17
per adult
Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town
Dresden: Guided City Walk with a Cup of Coffee

Dresden: Old Town Walking Tour: The Fascination of Dresden

$16
per adult
Dresden: Old Town Walking Tour: The Fascination of Dresden
Picture 5 for Activity Dresden: Special Tour for Children & Families

Dresden: KID.s tour of the Gläserne Manufaktur

$10
per adult
Dresden: KID.s tour of the Gläserne Manufaktur
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Dresden must see attractions

1. Church of Our Lady

Despite dating back to the 18th century, Dresden’s iconic church remained a pile of rubble for half a century following the 1945 bombing of Dresden. Today, following a long reconstructive period, the Church of Our Lady has been returned to its original state, and is considered one of the most important examples of Protestant sacred architecture in the region. Climb its arched dome or take in a concert within its cavernous nave.
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An ornate church interior with a central organ, arched ceilings, and intricate woodwork.

2. Zwinger Palace

Among Dresden’s most recognizable buildings is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The Zwinger Palace dominates the northwestern boundary of Dresden’s Old Town, close to the Royal Palace and the opera house. Visit the Zwinger Palace to stroll through its decadent gardens and courtyards, to see a large collection of art and artifacts and to admire the opulent interior of the palace.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, large windows, and a clock.

3. Semper Opera House

Nearly two centuries of tumultuous history awaits at Dresden’s stunning opera house. The Semper Opera House is a palatial building perched on the banks of the Elbe River and is home to the Saxon State Orchestra and the Semperoper ballet. Admire its diverse architecture, which comprises elements of a number of periods. Book tickets to take in a musical event inside.
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A grand building with ornate architecture, a statue of a man on horseback, and a fountain.

4. Old Market Square

Dresden is famous across the world for its Christmas Market, or Striezelmarkt, but the Old Market Square bustles year round. Mentioned for the first time in 1370, it was the heart of the city until its destruction in 1945. Today, after a brief time as a parking lot under the GDR, it has been reborn, hosting markets, sporting events, performances and more throughout the year. Come for a specific event or just wander by and see what’s on, a perfect way to experience the real Dresden.
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A European square with cafes, outdoor seating, and historic buildings.

5. Dresden Castle

Occupying much of the center of Dresden’s historic heart, the Dresden Castle or Royal Palace is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Along with its impressive collection of architectural marvels, the castle is today one of Dresden’s main galleries. Since its reconstruction following the 1945 bombing of Dresden, the castle has been built as the Palace of Art and Sciences. See historic coins, palace stables and a 335-foot (102-meter) mural as you explore the complex.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, including a series of arches and columns, and a courtyard with a clear blue sky.

Recommended things to do in Dresden

Number of things to do
158
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Dresden Highlights Audio Guide and Self Guided Tour: $6
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Dresden

Free Things to Do in Dresden

A visit to Dresden need not cost a fortune. You won't even need your wallet if you go to:

Procession of Princes - If you'd love to learn more about the cultural and artistic side of the region, make sure you drop by.

ASP Panama - Calling all animal lovers — here's your opportunity to meet some interesting new friends.

Dresden Funicular Railway - Pencil in time to play and add some excitement to your escape here.

Diu Dresden International University GmbH - This local landmark is a terrific backdrop for a selfie.

Georg-Treu-Platz - If you're planning to explore the area's history through its landmarks, stick this one on your itinerary.

New Market Square - Discover for yourself why locals and travelers alike are in love with the charm and character of this place.

Canaletto Blick - There's something calming about being close to the water, so stay a while here.

French Institute - Look up your guidebook and learn why this place deserves a spot on your must-see list.

Church of Our Lady - No matter what you believe in, this place will inspire a sense of reverence.

Herzogin Garten - Cultivate your green thumb and admire the various plants on show.

Things to Do in Dresden with Kids

Dresden is a terrific destination for a family escape. Bring the kids along and try these top family friendly experiences together:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Dresden? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Dresden attractions

An ornate church interior with a central organ, arched ceilings, and intricate woodwork.

Church of Our Lady

9.4/10 (1,975 reviews)
This Baroque masterpiece rose from the ashes of WWII to become a symbol of peace and reconciliation. Climb the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Dresden and the Elbe River below.
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Where to stay in Dresden

Find the best Dresden areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Dresden
Learn more about Dresden
A fountain with statues in a park with trees and a building in the background.

Neustadt

Museums, shopping, and historic sites highlight some notable features of Neustadt. Make a stop by Kunsthof-Passage or Alter Schlachthof while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Waldschloesschen Station or Nordstrasse Station to get around town.

A river with boats, a bridge, and historic buildings.

Altstadt Dresden

Travelers love Altstadt Dresden for its popular shops, and you can see more of Dresden by jumping on the metro at Theaterplatz Station or Altmarkt Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Green Vault and Dresden Cathedral.

A hillside village with colorful houses and dense green trees.

Blasewitz

Check out the historic sites while you're in Blasewitz. Hop on the metro at Gottleubaer Strasse Station and Altenberger Strasse Station to see top sights like Dresden Racecourse and Dresden Elbe Valley.

A bridge with multiple lanes, a tunnel entrance, and a mountainous landscape with buildings on top.

Plauen

Plauen is well-liked for its restaurants and museums. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Heidenschanze and Saxon State Library are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Nuernberger Platz Station or Zschertnitz Meunzmeisterstrasse Station to get around.

A church with a tall steeple, two large clocks, and a red-tiled roof.

Striesen

You might enjoy the restaurants while in Striesen. Dresden Elbe Valley is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Pohlandplatz Station or Bergmannstrasse Station to see more of the city.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Dresden

A river with a boat, surrounded by houses and greenery.

Pirna

A rural road curving through green fields with houses in the distance and a clear sky.

Wilsdruff

A large building with two domes and a snow-covered pathway leading to it.

Moritzburg

A tower, a winding road, and a river.

Freital

A couple standing by a river with a historic building in the background.

Radebeul

A historic building with a red-tiled roof and white walls, a stone staircase, and a sign indicating 'Schloss Klessinger'.

Radeberg

A church with a red roof and a clock tower under a partly cloudy sky.

Kesselsdorf

A town with a prominent tower on a hill, surrounded by vineyards and residential buildings.

Klipphausen

Frequently asked questions

Is Dresden worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Dresden is explore Movie Nights at the Elbe. Tick this major attraction off your itinerary, then experience more of the area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Dresden?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Burgk Castle and Railway Museum Dresden-Altstadt. Then, explore different areas of Dresden for local dining and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dresden?
You can't leave without checking out Movie Nights at the Elbe, ranked the top tourist attraction in Dresden.
Is three days enough to stay in Dresden?
Three days in Dresden is enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Movie Nights at the Elbe, Dresden Suspension Railway and Burgk Castle are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Prager Strasse.
Is Dresden a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Dresden, such as Movie Nights at the Elbe and Carte Blanche Theater, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 1 mile from central Dresden is Altstadt Dresden and Innere Vorstadt is 0.3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Dresden with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all the family, have a look at these fabulous ideas for what to do in Dresden with kids.

What to do in Dresden for adults?
Radeberger Brewery and Alter Schlachthof are just a couple of the things to do in Dresden. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Dresden?
In Dresden, ASP Panama is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in Dresden.

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