You're Going to Love Dresden
Like a phoenix from the flames, Dresden rebuilt itself after World War II, meticulously recreating one of the world's most beautiful baroque cities. Nowadays, Dresden is more striking than ever, boasting numerous museums, fine food, and plenty of cultural attractions as well.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Dresden
1. A Glorious History
Dresden's golden age was in the 18th century under the Saxon ruler Augustus II the Strong. Palaces like the Zwinger and the Residenzschloss are simply stunning.
2. Some of Germany's Best Museums
Dresden is serious about culture, and this is reflected in exceptional museums like the Green Vault, the Military History Museum, and the quirkier German Hygiene Museum.
3. Art Galleries to Equal Any European Destination
Art lovers will adore the Albertinum, where Monet and Chagall sit alongside contemporary contenders, while the Old Masters Picture Gallery features big names like Raphael, Tintoretto, and Dürer.
4. Beautiful Gardens
Dresdeners are fortunate to have some beautiful parks and gardens, with the Grosser Garten head and shoulders above the rest, featuring a city zoo and botanical gardens.
5. Entertainment Options for All
Catch an opera at the lavish Semperoper, visit in May for the Dresden Music Festival, or dive into the clubs that have earned Dresden the nickname the "Detroit of the East."
When to Visit Dresden
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Spring is a wonderful time to visit Dresden, with beautiful weather, smaller crowds, and the excellent music festival, but Christmas and summer are almost as good.
How to Get to Dresden
Plane
Many European low-cost airlines fly into Dresden International Airport (DRS). From there, take the 77 or 97 bus, or the S-Bahn (overland rail). Either way, the cost is EUR2.30, while taxis cost around EUR25.
Train
You can reach Dresden Hauptbahnhof from Munich, Berlin, and Frankfurt with ease, while other services may stop at Dresden Neustadt. The Hauptbahnhof is more central, so check your arrival point before you travel.
Car
From Berlin, take the A13 or the A14 from Leipzig. If you are coming from Prague, take the E8, then the A17 from the border.
Bus
BerlinLinienbus, FlixBus, and Eurolines run daily services into Dresden Hauptbahnhof from other German cities.
Airlines serving Dresden
Where to Stay in Dresden
City center accommodation options worth considering include the palatial Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden and the Hotel Suitess, while the Bülow Palais is situated in a mansion north of the river.
Popular Neighborhoods in Dresden
Altstadt - rebuilt with incredible dedication following the war, the Altstadt is a baroque masterpiece, with squares, townhouses, and civic architecture to die for.
Innenstadt - the heart of the modern city, Innenstadt is Dresden's shopping hub (don't miss Prager Strasse if you are hunting for souvenirs).
Loschwitz - prosperous and modern, Loschwitz is full of small galleries and design stores, and also hosts a couple of 18th-century castles.
Most popular hotel in Dresden by neighbourhood
Where to stay in popular areas of Dresden
Most booked hotels in Dresden
How to Get Around Dresden
Public Transportation
Buses and trams will take you where you need to go, and cost EUR2.30 for a single journey. Day tickets cost EUR6.
Taxi
Bike taxis are popular in Dresden and are great for short hops. Conventional taxis will cost about EUR3.50 for the meter drop, then EUR3 per mile.
Car
Car rental outlets include Sixt, Avis, and Hertz; expect to pay around EUR15-20 per day for smaller vehicles.
Car hire agencies in Dresden
The Cost of Living in Dresden
Shopping Streets
Innenstadt is the place to go for chain stores, and Prager Strasse is the main shopping street. Check out Äußere Neustadt for vintage stores, record shops, and boutiques.
Groceries and Other
Local supermarkets include REWE and Lidl. Prices shouldn't be steep, at around EUR2.40 for a gallon of milk.
Where to Eat in Dresden
Local highlights include Lila Sosse (where the German tapas are a great intro to local delicacies), and the gourmet fish eatery Kastenmeiers. Expect to pay around EUR20-30 per head.