Things to do in Dresden

Activities, attractions and tours

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.

Things to do

Dresden: The Original Night Watchman Tour in Lantern Light

Dresden: Unterwegs mit dem geheimnisvollen Nachtwächter

HK$146
per adult
Dresden: Unterwegs mit dem geheimnisvollen Nachtwächter
Dresden: Church of Our Lady Guided Tour of Gallery

Dresden: Church of Our Lady Guided Tour of Gallery

HK$128
per adult
Dresden: Church of Our Lady Guided Tour of Gallery
Dresden Trip with Zwinger Palace & Semper Gallery Admission

Dresden Trip with Zwinger Palace & Semper Gallery Admission

HK$938
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
Dresden Trip with Zwinger Palace & Semper Gallery Admission
Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town

Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town

HK$146
per adult
Dresden: Night Watchman Tour Through The Old Town
Dresden: Guided City Walk with a Cup of Coffee

Dresden: Faszination Dresden - Der besonder Stadtrundgang

HK$128
per adult
Dresden: Faszination Dresden - Der besonder Stadtrundgang
Dresden: 1.5-Hour Comedy Bus Tour in German

Dresden: 1.5-Hour Comedy Bus Tour in German

HK$306
per adult
Dresden: 1.5-Hour Comedy Bus Tour in German
Dresden Self-Guided Audio Tour: Semperoper, Frauenkirche, and many more

Dresden Self-Guided Audio Tour: Semperoper, Frauenkirche, and many more

HK$64
per adult
Dresden Self-Guided Audio Tour: Semperoper, Frauenkirche, and many more
See all activities in Dresden
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. 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.
Learn more
A historic building with ornate architecture, large windows, and a clock.

2. 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.
Learn more
An ornate church interior with a central organ, arched ceilings, and intricate woodwork.

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.
Learn more
A grand building with ornate architecture, a statue of a man on horseback, and a fountain.

4. 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.
Learn more
A historic building with ornate architecture, including a series of arches and columns, and a courtyard with a clear blue sky.

5. 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.
Learn more
A European square with cafes, outdoor seating, and historic buildings.

6. New Market Square

Almost entirely flattened during World War II, this central square lay dormant for much of the 20th century. Reconstruction of New Market Square in its traditional style began following the fall of communism and today the square is full of life. Visit the square to see the stunning Fraeuenkirche, to take in a December Christmas market or to people-watch from one of the many outdoor eateries that line the square.
Learn more
A historic building with multiple stories, featuring classic European architecture with arched windows and a curved facade.

What to do in Dresden

Stay near popular Dresden attractions

A historic building with ornate architecture, large windows, and a clock.

Zwinger Palace

9.0/10 (1,760 reviews)
This Baroque masterpiece houses three prestigious museums within its ornate pavilions. Explore the Old Masters Picture Gallery or stroll through the courtyard with its elegant fountain pools and manicured gardens.
See properties

Where to stay in Dresden

Find the best Dresden areas 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 historical sites highlight some notable features of Neustadt. Make a stop by Bundeswehr Military History Museum or Kulturzentrum Strasse E 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

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Green Vault to Dresden Cathedral – discover Altstadt Dresden, a destination also famous for its shopping.

A hillside village with colorful houses and dense green trees.

Blasewitz

Check out the historical 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

The restaurants and museums are just a few things visitors like about Plauen. Heidenschanze and Saxon State Library are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Nuernberger Platz Station or Zschertnitz Meunzmeisterstrasse Station to get around the larger area.

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.

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

Kesselsdorf

A large, yellow building with a symmetrical facade, arched windows, and a central entrance flanked by steps.

Heidenau

A historic building with a dome, surrounded by lush greenery and a pathway.

Ottendorf-Okrilla

A calm lake with a rocky shoreline, surrounded by dense trees and a clear sky.

Arnsdorf

A fountain with water jets, a rainbow, and a checkered building in the background.

Prager Strasse

Frequently asked questions

Is Dresden worth visiting?
Offering a blend of culture and history, there are plenty of things to do in Dresden. While you're here, head to Movie Nights at the Elbe, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Dresden?
Oskarshausen and Burgk Castle are two great places to start your holiday adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Dresden while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dresden?
Movie Nights at the Elbe is one of the top tourist attractions in Dresden and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dresden?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Movie Nights at the Elbe, Dresden Suspension Railway and Burgk Castle with a three-day escape to Dresden. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a bit longer and venture to Prager Strasse.
Is Dresden a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Dresden, like Movie Nights at the Elbe and Carte Blanche Theatre, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from central Dresden is Altstadt Dresden and Innere Vorstadt is 0.48 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Dresden with kids?
If you're looking for activities and sights for all ages, take 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 two 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?
From visiting parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Dresden. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Georg-Treu-Platz is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their travelling adventures.