Best things to do in Dresden
Find out more about those top places in Dresden
Dresden: From Rubble to Renaissance (with a Side of Hipster Hangouts Across the River!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to "Florence on the Elbe"!
Alright, history buffs and fans of cities that have risen from the ashes like a phoenix wearing a baroque wig, let's talk about Dresden! Back in February 1945, this city had a seriously rough time, getting virtually wiped off the map. Ouch! But like a determined gardener with a love for beauty, Dresden has been on a long journey of stop-start reconstruction. And after German reunification in 1991, the efforts to restore this "Florence on the Elbe" to its former glory kicked into high gear.
Fast forward to today, and prepare to be amazed! Dresden's baroque streetscape has been painstakingly brought back to life, and its stunning skyline, a glorious jumble of bulbous domes and gothic spires (including the iconic Frauenkirche!), has been reconstituted as one of Europe's most memorable sights. Seriously, it's like stepping into a painting, a very grand and ornate painting.
You can thank Elector Augustus the Strong for much of this architectural eye candy. Back in the 17th century, he was on a mission to transform Dresden into a dazzling gem, and his legacy seems stronger today than ever. But hold on, history lovers! Dresden isn't just about powdered wigs and royal decrees.
Cross the Elbe to the north bank, and you'll find the multicultural Neustadt, a vibrant neighborhood that's like Dresden's cool, slightly rebellious younger sibling. Here, you'll discover a host of funky restaurants serving up international delights, buzzing clubs where the party goes late, and quirky independent boutiques that wouldn't feel out of place in Berlin's uber-hip Kreuzberg district. So, you can spend your days soaking in baroque beauty and your nights exploring a more alternative scene. Talk about a city with range!
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this captivating German city. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from marveling at painstakingly restored historical landmarks to exploring the trendy vibes of the Neustadt, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Dresden a truly unique destination.
Top Attractions: Baroque Beauty Reborn and Hipster Havens!
Dresden offers a fascinating contrast between its meticulously restored historical center and its vibrant, modern Neustadt. Here are some of the top places to visit you absolutely shouldn't miss:
Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady): A Symbol of Resilience and Beauty
This iconic baroque church, painstakingly rebuilt after its destruction in World War Two, is a powerful symbol of Dresden's resilience. Climb to the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It's a must-see for your Dresden sightseeing and a testament to the city's spirit.
Zwinger Palace: Baroque Grandeur and Artistic Treasures
Prepare to be wowed by the opulent Zwinger Palace, a stunning baroque complex that houses several museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery (Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister) with masterpieces like Raphael's "Sistine Madonna." Strolling through its courtyards and admiring its architecture is a quintessential Dresden experience.
Semperoper (Semper Opera House): Architectural and Cultural Masterpiece
This magnificent opera house is not only a stunning architectural landmark but also a world-renowned venue for opera and ballet performances. Even if you don't catch a show, admiring its grandeur from the outside is a must for your Dresden sightseeing.
The Neustadt: Dresden's Trendy and Alternative Side
Cross the Elbe and explore the Neustadt, a vibrant district filled with colorful street art, independent shops, quirky bars, and a diverse range of restaurants. It's a fantastic place to visit for a taste of Dresden's modern and alternative culture and offers plenty of unique things to do.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks: River Cruises, Royal History, and Artistic Exploration!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Dresden vibe:
- Take a Paddle Steamer Cruise on the Elbe: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Elbe River on a historic paddle steamer, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding countryside.
- Explore the Residenzschloss (Royal Palace): Delve into the history of Saxony's rulers at the Residenzschloss, which houses several museums, including the Green Vault (Grünes Gewölbe) with its dazzling collection of treasures.
- Wander Through the Grosser Garten (Great Garden): Escape the city bustle in this large and beautiful park, perfect for a stroll, a bike ride, or a relaxing picnic.
- Visit the Military History Museum of the Bundeswehr: For a different perspective, explore this thought-provoking museum that examines German military history in a critical and engaging way.
- Discover the Street Art in the Neustadt: Take a walk through the Neustadt's backstreets and alleys to discover a vibrant and ever-changing street art scene.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Germany that offer a captivating blend of meticulously restored historical grandeur and a vibrant, modern alternative scene, Dresden is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with unforgettable sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to be amazed by its resilience and its surprisingly cool contemporary vibe! Willkommen in Dresden!
-
The Zwinger
Built by Augustus the Strong between 1710 and 1728, Dresden’s Zwinger is one of Europe’s most remarkable palace complexes. Designed to rival the splendor of Versailles, the Zwinger has a host of grand fountain peppered courtyards, gilded buildings bedecked in fine sculptures and romantic gardens that stretch alongside a tranquil lake. Guided tours of the complex are available with many giving you access to the three superb museums that today call the palace home.
-
Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche, the main landmark of Dresden’s reconstructed Altstadt, was rebuilt between 1994 and 2005 from the vast pile of rubble leftover from the Allied bombing of the city. Thanks to years of careful restoration, today the Frauenkirche is as resplendent as it would have been in the 18th century with cupola offering spectacular views of the city.
-
Residenzschloss
Home to Saxony’s royal family between the 15th and 20th centuries, the Residenzschloss is Dresden’s most historic building. The palace today houses various collections of precious artifacts from Saxony’s past, including the jaw-dropping Green Vault. With so many historic items and famed works of art displayed, tour guides are recommended to help you search out the must-see pieces.
-
Neustadt
Many tourists come to Dresden for the Altstadt but end up enjoying their time in the Neustadt even more. Laid out on a grid pattern in the 19th century, the area’s tenements are today populated with students, hipsters and artists who give the neighborhood a vibrant atmosphere. Make sure to go on a street art tour of the area, where huge murals adorn every unused wall, and check out its famous nightlife.
-
Brühl’s Terrace
Nicknamed ‘the Balcony of Europe’, Brühl’s Terrace is one of Dresden’s most charming attractions. Elegantly stretching along the banks of the Elbe, the terrace runs past a number of Dresden’s landmarks and makes for a romantic stroll in the evening.
-
Albertinum
One of Europe’s best art collections is housed in this former gun arsenal. With works from artists ranging from Claude Monet to Marc Chagall, the Albertinum gallery has something for everyone and can be visited in the company of tour guides.
-
Schloss Mortizburg
Making an ideal day tour from Dresden, Moritzburg Castle is one of Germany’s most spectacular. The baroque masterpiece is set on an island amidst what was once the vast hunting reserve of the Saxon royal family and is home to a treasure trove of historic artifacts and hunting trophies.
