Dresden’s beauty is undisputed – and unmistakable! It reveals itself to visitors at first glance and is characterised by an irresistible combination of romantic landscape, baroque architecture and one of the most beautiful historic city centres in Germany. At second glance, "Florence on the Elbe", as it is often called, attracts visitors with a wealth of art and culture that can easily hold its own on an international level. The locals love and enjoy their city, its streets and squares and its concert halls with regular performances by world-class artists – and guests from all over the world are very much invited to join in.
Dresden
Welcome to a beautiful city on the river
Five years after the spectacular heist, where thieves stole one of Europe’s greatest jewellery collections from the Green Vault in Dresden, the recovered jewels are back on display. The case made international headlines and the related trial is still ongoing.
In the meantime, you have the chance to see these precious items in the state they were found. The Green Vault is hosting a special exhibition and extended their opening hours from Thursday to Saturday until 8pm to meet high demands. Find out more about the museum or simply book your timed ticket here.
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„Dresden has given me great pleasure and revived my desire to contemplate art. This beautiful place is full of incredible treasures of all kinds.”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
104.000
trees turn Dresden into one of Europe’s greenest cities
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First mention of the Dresdner Stollen Christmas cake
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galleries and exhibition spaces
Dresden for foodies
Dresden’s famous Christmas stollen is more than just a cake. As a much-cherished tradition that goes back to the 15th century, it is part of the city’s culinary DNA. The cake is only prepared for Christmas according to a special recipe and simply delicious!
Another favourite German sweet for Christmas, called Dominostein, was also invented in Dresden. We very much recommend trying this delicacy covered in a thin icing of dark chocolate.
One more for lovers of cake: Dresdner Eierschecke is a three-layered tray bake made of yeast dough. Again, we can only urge you to try it!
On to the hearty stuff: Dresdner Sauerbraten is the local version of a traditional German roast with marinated meat, typically served with potatoes and red cabbage.
Only in Saxony: Fettbemme is a slice of dark rye bread with clarified butter and topped with sliced gherkins and sprinkled with salt. A simple dish that has even found its way into upscale Dresden restaurants.
Neustadt: where history meets hip
Dresden’s baroque flair is nowhere more evident than in the Neustadt district. Winding alleys, picturesque courtyards and spacious streets invite you to discover and indulge in leisurely strolls. Art lovers will find a wide variety of galleries, studios, and antique shops, while numerous cafés and restaurants in baroque courtyards are perfect for food and drinks. The so-called Äußere Neustadt neighbourhood at the district’s outer edges is creative, colourful, and urban. Try the Kunsthofpassage, an ensemble of interconnected backyards designed according to different themes.
Dresden’s old town: where art meets architecture
Dresden's historic centre is located on the left bank of the Elbe River. The row of buildings lining up on the riverfront are considered the city’s "showcase" with splendid Renaissance, Baroque, and 19th century architecture. The view from the opposite bank is definitely worthwhile!
Dresden’s old town is very walkable with numerous sights in close proximity, such as Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) as a symbol of the city’s reconstruction, the Semper opera house or the Zwinger. The Old Masters Picture Gallery and the Green Vault house world-class art. Around Altmarkt and Prager Straße, visitors will find shopping centres, restaurants, and more culture.
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„The people of Dresden don't ask you if you like the city. They simply tell you. That makes me think that you can usually divide cities into two categories: the confident ones and the others.”
Umberto Eco
Tips from Dresden insiders
Dresden is home to the oldest and biggest paddle steamer fleet in the world and a yearly steamship parade sees the impressive vessels sail in formation to Pillnitz Palace just outside town and back. They are accompanied by a large, joint concert of steam whistles and by many enthusiastic spectators on the banks of the Elbe. There are fixed dates at the start and end of the fleet’s main season.
Since 1971, Dresden’s International Dixieland Festival (in May) has been attracting fans of jazz and Dixieland tunes from across the world to the city to enjoy a diverse programme of acts.
Kraftwerk Mitte Dresden is a special venue for cultural experiences and testimony to Dresden's lively cultural scene. The former power station is now a place for dancing and singing. Among others, the Dresden State Operetta and tjg, a theatre ensemble specifically catering for children and young adults, have moved in here.
Get on the Loschwitz suspension railway at Körnerplatz for a three-minute ride up to the Löschwitzhöhe elevation to enjoy a fabulous view of Dresden. Built in 1900, it is considered to be the world’s oldest mountain suspension railway!