If you’re planning a trip to Germany, be sure to add Dresden to your itinerary. This beautiful city is full of history, culture, and architecture that will leave you in awe. In this article, we’ll give you some travel tips and recommendations for what to do in Dresden in three days. From must-see places to routes, accommodation, and food, we’ve got you covered.
Day 1
What to See
Start your day by visiting the Zwinger Palace, a stunning baroque palace that houses several museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery, which features works by Raphael, Titian, and other famous artists. Next, head to the Frauenkirche, a beautiful church that was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the 1990s. From there, walk to the Dresden Castle, which was once the residence of the electors and kings of Saxony. Don’t miss the Green Vault, a museum that houses one of the largest treasure collections in Europe.
Route
Zwinger Palace → Frauenkirche → Dresden Castle
Where to Eat
For lunch, we recommend trying some traditional Saxon cuisine at Sophienkeller, a cozy restaurant located in the basement of the Dresden Castle. Try their Sauerbraten or their Schweinshaxe for a taste of local flavors.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, the Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden is a great option. Located in the heart of the city, this 5-star hotel is housed in a historic building and offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a spa and fitness center. For a more budget-friendly option, the Aparthotel am Schloss is a good choice. This hotel offers spacious and comfortable apartments with kitchenettes, perfect for those who prefer to cook their own meals.
Day 2
What to See
Start your day by visiting the Dresden Panometer, a unique museum that features a 360-degree panoramic painting of the city during the baroque period. Next, head to the Albertinum, a museum that houses a collection of modern art, including works by Picasso and Monet. From there, take a stroll along the Elbe River and enjoy the views of the city.
Route
Dresden Panometer → Albertinum → Elbe River
Where to Eat
For lunch, we recommend trying some delicious street food at the Neustadt Kunsthofpassage. This hidden gem is a colorful courtyard that features several food stalls serving everything from crepes to burgers. After lunch, head to Café Europa, a cozy café that offers a variety of cakes and pastries, as well as coffee and tea.
Free Tours
If you’re interested in learning more about Dresden’s history and culture, consider joining a free walking tour. Sandemans New Europe offers a free walking tour of the city, which covers the main sights and provides an overview of the city’s history. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and is a great way to get to know the city and its people.
Day 3
What to See
Start your day by visiting the Dresden Transport Museum, a museum that features a collection of historic vehicles, including cars, trains, and airplanes. Next, head to the Dresden Botanical Garden, a beautiful garden that features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world. From there, visit the Dresden Porcelain Collection, a museum that houses a collection of porcelain from the 18th century.
Route
Dresden Transport Museum → Dresden Botanical Garden → Dresden Porcelain Collection
Where to Eat
For lunch, we recommend trying some delicious Italian food at Trattoria La Campagnola. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of pasta dishes and pizzas, as well as a great selection of wine. After lunch, head to Café Schinkelwache, a historic café that offers a variety of cakes and pastries, as well as coffee and tea.
FAQs
- Is it safe to travel to Dresden? Yes, Dresden is a safe city for travelers. However, as with any city, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- What is the best time of year to visit Dresden? The best time to visit Dresden is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you’re interested in visiting the Christmas markets, the best time to visit is in December.
- What is the currency used in Dresden? The currency used in Dresden is the Euro.
- Do I need a visa to visit Dresden? That depends on your country of origin. Citizens of the EU and some other countries do not need a visa to visit Germany for up to 90 days. Check with the German embassy or consulate in your country for more information.
- What language do people speak in Dresden? The official language of Dresden is German. However, many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.