3-Day Family-Friendly Locals' Experience in Dresden: Food, Wine & Sights

Dresden, Germany

3 days

University of arts building
Zwinger palace, art gallery and museum
Semperoper
Terrassenufer in winter
Bastion Bridge in Saxonia near Dresden

About Dresden, Germany

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Dresden, Germany, a city renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and vibrant arts scene. Explore the historic Old Town, home to the iconic Frauenkirche and Semperoper Opera House. Visit the Zwinger Palace, a masterpiece of baroque design housing world-class museums. Stroll along the Elbe River and enjoy the picturesque views of the city's skyline. Discover Dresden's intellectual side at the German Hygiene Museum and the Green Vault, Europe's richest treasure chamber. Indulge in local cuisine at charming eateries and sip on fine German beer at traditional pubs. Whether you're an art enthusiast, history buff, or food lover, Dresden offers a unique blend of experiences that captivate and inspire.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Old Town and Neustadt

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Old Town. Explore the beautiful baroque architecture, including the iconic Frauenkirche and the Dresden Castle. Don't forget to check out the Green Vault, which houses a vast collection of treasures.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch in a family-friendly restaurant in the Old Town. Try local specialties like Sauerbraten (pot roast) or Dresdner Stollen, a fruit bread of nuts, spices, and dried or candied fruit.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Elbe River. Enjoy the scenic views and the beautiful landscape of the Elbe Valley.

Dinner

For dinner, head to Neustadt, the city's new town. Here, you'll find a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local wine bar in Neustadt. Taste some of the region's finest wines, including the famous Riesling.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Zwinger Palace. Explore its galleries and museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery.

Lunch

Have lunch in a cozy café near the Zwinger Palace. Try some traditional German pastries and a cup of coffee.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Grosser Garten, a beautiful baroque park. Enjoy a leisurely walk, or rent a paddle boat and explore the park's lake.

Dinner

Head back to the Old Town for dinner. Try some traditional German sausages, accompanied by a local beer.

Evening

After dinner, enjoy a classical music concert at the Semper Opera House. The opera house is known for its stunning acoustics and beautiful interior.

Morning

On your final day, visit the German Hygiene Museum. This unique museum offers interactive exhibits on the human body and health.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Palaisgarten, a beautiful park located next to the Japanese Palace.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Pillnitz Castle and its beautiful gardens. The castle is a great example of baroque architecture.

Dinner

For your final dinner, enjoy a meal in a traditional German restaurant. Try some Saxon dishes, like potato soup or quarkkeulchen (potato pancakes).

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing evening at a local pub in the Old Town. Enjoy a local beer and reflect on your wonderful trip.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Frauenkirche

1
Frauenkirche

A Lutheran church that was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt as a symbol of reconciliation.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Dresden Castle

2
Dresden Castle

A historic castle and museum complex that houses a rich collection of treasures from around the world.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Green Vault

3
Green Vault

One of the world's oldest museums, it contains the largest collection of treasures in Europe.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Artifact
Elbe River

4
Elbe River

The Elbe River is one of the major rivers of Central Europe, passing through Dresden and providing stunning views of the city's skyline.

Attractions
Tours
Zwinger Palace

5
Zwinger Palace

A baroque palace that is now a museum complex, featuring gardens and galleries.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Old Masters Picture Gallery

A museum that houses one of the world's most important collections of European painting.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Grosser Garten

7
Grosser Garten

A large public park with a palace, a miniature railway, and a botanical garden.

Parks
Gardens
Semper Opera House

8
Semper Opera House

One of the most beautiful opera houses in the world, offering a variety of performances.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
German Hygiene Museum

9
German Hygiene Museum

A unique museum dedicated to the history and science of hygiene and health.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Palaisgarten

10
Palaisgarten

The Palaisgarten is a beautiful park in Dresden, adjacent to the Japanese Palace. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.

Parks
Gardens
Pillnitz Castle

11
Pillnitz Castle

A beautiful Baroque palace that is surrounded by a magnificent park. It is located on the river Elbe in the former village of Pillnitz.

Attractions
Monuments
Gardens
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Eierschecke

Eierschecke

A traditional Dresden cake with three layers: a yeast dough bottom, a creamy quark layer in the middle, and a buttery egg layer on top. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Dresden.

Dresdner Stollen

Dresdner Stollen

A fruit bread containing dried fruit and often covered with powdered sugar or icing sugar. The bread is usually made with chopped candied fruit and/or dried fruit, nuts, and spices. Stollen is a traditional German cake, usually eaten during the Christmas season, when it is called Weihnachtsstollen or Christstollen.

Quarkkäulchen

Quarkkäulchen

A popular sweet dish in Dresden, made from quark cheese, potatoes, flour, eggs, and sugar. They are fried and often served with apple sauce.

Sächsischer Sauerbraten

Sächsischer Sauerbraten

A pot roast, usually of beef (but other meats such as venison, lamb, mutton, pork, and horse are sometimes used), marinated before being slow-cooked. It's a specialty of Saxony, the region where Dresden is located.

Radeberger Pilsner

Radeberger Pilsner

A type of beer that originates from the town of Radeberg, a short distance from Dresden. It's a crisp, clear beer with a refreshing taste.

Leipziger Allerlei

Leipziger Allerlei

A vegetable dish that consists of peas, carrots, asparagus, and morels. It's often served with crayfish or crab butter, and is a popular dish in the Saxony region.

Soljanka

Soljanka

A hearty soup originating from Eastern Europe, popular in Dresden. It's made with mixed meat, sausage, pickles, and often served with a dollop of sour cream.

Schwarzbier

Schwarzbier

A dark lager that originated in Germany. It's rich and full-bodied, with a smooth malt flavor. It's a popular choice for beer lovers visiting Dresden.

Fettbemme

Fettbemme

A traditional Saxon snack, it's a slice of bread spread with lard and sprinkled with salt and paprika. It's a simple, yet flavorful snack often enjoyed with beer.

Handkäse mit Musik

Handkäse mit Musik

A sour milk cheese served in a marinade of oil, vinegar, caraway seeds, and chopped onions. The 'music' in the name refers to the flatulence people supposedly experience after eating it. It's a unique and traditional dish in Dresden.

Glühwein

Glühwein

A hot mulled wine, usually made with red wine along with various mulling spices and sometimes raisins. It's especially popular in the Christmas season and can be found at Christmas markets around Dresden.

Dresdner Biersuppe

Dresdner Biersuppe

A traditional soup of Dresden made from beer, often enriched with egg yolks, cream, and sugar. It's a unique dish that reflects the beer culture of the region.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Dresden, Germany as a tourist is during the late spring and early fall, specifically May through June and September through October. During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, these periods avoid the peak summer tourist season, offering a more relaxed experience. However, if you're interested in Christmas markets, December would be a great time to visit, despite the colder weather.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday (regional holiday)

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday (regional holiday)

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

August 8

Thu

Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

September 20

Fri

German World Children's Day (Thuringia)

October 3

Thu

Day of German Unity

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day (regional holiday)

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

November 20

Wed

Repentance Day (Saxony)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Dresden has an extensive tram network operated by Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe (DVB). Trams are a fast and convenient way to get around the city, with frequent services to most parts of Dresden.

DVB also operates a network of bus routes throughout Dresden. Buses are a good option for reaching areas not served by the tram network.

The S-Bahn is a regional train service that connects Dresden with the surrounding region. It's a good option for day trips to nearby towns and cities.

Dresden is a bike-friendly city with an extensive network of bike lanes and bike-sharing services. Cycling is a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available throughout Dresden. However, be aware that parking can be difficult in the city center.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Dresden. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Many of Dresden's main attractions are located close together in the city center, making it easy to explore on foot.

Dresden has a number of ferry routes that operate along the River Elbe. These can be a scenic and relaxing way to travel between different parts of the city.

Taxis are readily available throughout Dresden. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Dresden, Germany as a first time visitor

1

Dresden is located in the eastern part of Germany, in the state of Saxony.

2

The official language is German, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels.

3

The currency used in Dresden is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.

4

Dresden has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) can be warm, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Winters (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.

5

Public transportation in Dresden is excellent. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and S-Bahn (suburban trains).

6

Dresden is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

7

Tipping is customary in Germany. In restaurants, it's common to round up the bill or tip 10-15%.

8

Dresden is known for its Christmas markets, especially the Striezelmarkt, which is one of the oldest in Germany. If you're visiting in December, don't miss it.

9

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues, particularly in the Neustadt district.

10

Dresden is famous for its porcelain. You can find many shops selling beautiful pieces throughout the city.

11

The city is also known for its traditional German cuisine. Be sure to try local specialties like Saxon potato soup and Dresden Stollen, a type of fruitcake.

12

Dresden has a smoking ban in all public buildings, including bars and restaurants. However, some establishments have designated smoking areas.

13

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with many of its major sights within walking distance of each other.

14

Dresden has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.

15

Most shops in Dresden are closed on Sundays, with the exception of some bakeries and convenience stores.

16

The city has a number of public parks and green spaces, perfect for relaxing or having a picnic on a sunny day.

17

Dresden is located near the Elbe River, and river cruises are a popular activity for tourists.

18

The city has a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Dresden Music Festival in May and the Dresden Film Festival in April.

19

Dresden has a rich history, and many of its buildings still bear the scars of World War II. A guided tour can provide valuable insight into the city's past.

20

Germany operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

owf vee-der-zayn

Saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

dahn-ke

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

ya

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nein

nine

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Es tut mir leid

es toot meer lite

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

shpre-khen zee eng-lish

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

ikh fair-shtay-uh nikht

Expressing difficulty in understanding

Where is...?

Wo ist...?

voh ist

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilette

toi-let-te

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Hilfe

hil-fe

In need of assistance

Food

Essen

es-sen

Looking for food or a restaurant

Water

Wasser

vas-ser

Asking for water

Beer

Bier

beer

Ordering a beer

Wine

Wein

vine

Ordering wine

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

vee feel kos-tet das

Asking for the price

Can I pay with a credit card?

Kann ich mit Kreditkarte zahlen?

kahn ikh mit kray-deet-kar-te tsah-len

Asking to pay with a credit card

Call a doctor

Rufen Sie einen Arzt

roo-fen zee i-nen arst

In case of a medical emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (3 pairs)

  • Socks (3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (3)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Scarf, gloves, and hat (if traveling in winter)

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Euros)

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter (Germany uses type F plugs)

  • Laptop and charger (if necessary)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for liquids

  • Tissues

  • Notepad and pen

  • Sunglasses

  • Backpack or day bag for daily excursions

Weather Conditions

When planning your visit to Dresden, Germany, it's important to consider the city's weather patterns to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Dresden experiences a temperate seasonal climate. The summers, from June to August, are warm and often humid, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). This is the best time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds at popular attractions. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are also pleasant times to visit Dresden. Temperatures during these seasons range from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C). These seasons offer a balance between comfortable weather and fewer tourists. Winter, from December to February, is cold and often snowy, with temperatures typically ranging from 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C). If you're a fan of winter sports or enjoy the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets, this could be the perfect time for you to visit. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, as Dresden is a city best explored on foot. In summer, pack light clothing, but also a light jacket for cooler evenings. In winter, warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat, are essential. Lastly, Dresden's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat, regardless of the season. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Dresden, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or the beauty of snow-covered landscapes.

February

6° / -1°

February is still quite cold in Dresden, but the days start to get a bit longer. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

March

11° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring in Dresden. The weather can be unpredictable, but the city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April

16° / 4°

April is a pleasant month in Dresden, with temperatures rising and more hours of daylight. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens.

May

20° / 8°

May is a lovely month to visit Dresden, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city's outdoor attractions, like the Elbe River and the Dresden Zoo, are particularly enjoyable.

June

23° / 11°

June is the start of the summer season in Dresden. The weather is usually warm and sunny, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

July

25° / 13°

July is the hottest month in Dresden, with long, sunny days. It's a perfect time to visit if you enjoy warm weather and want to take advantage of the city's many outdoor attractions.

August

25° / 13°

August is another warm month in Dresden, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit the city's beer gardens or take a boat trip on the Elbe River.

September

21° / 9°

September marks the start of autumn in Dresden. The weather is still quite warm, but the crowds of summer have started to thin out.

October

15° / 5°

October in Dresden is characterized by cooler temperatures and the changing colors of the leaves. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy autumn scenery.

November

9° / 1°

November is a chilly month in Dresden, with shorter days and colder temperatures. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December

5° / -1°

December in Dresden is cold and often snowy, but the city's Christmas markets make it a magical time to visit. Be sure to bundle up and enjoy a mug of hot mulled wine.

Did you know?

Did you know that Dresden, Germany is often referred to as 'Florence on the Elbe' due to its location on the Elbe River and its collection of stunning architecture and art?

1 of 10

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