Dresden 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Dresden:

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel Dresden (social atmosphere), Motel One Dresden-Pieschen (modern design)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Suitess Dresden, Qvest Dresden
  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel Taschenbergpalais Dresden, Hotel Taschenbergpallas

Transportation:

  • Dresden Card: Offers free public transport and discounts on attractions. Highly recommended.
  • Tram & Bus: Efficient network covers the entire city. Purchase tickets from machines or online.
  • Walking: Dresden is very walkable, especially the Altstadt (Old Town).

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: German. English is spoken in tourist areas but learning a few basic phrases is appreciated.
  • Opening Hours: Museums and attractions typically open 10am-6pm. Check websites for specific timings.
  • Dresden Cake (Dresdner Stollen): A traditional Christmas treat, available year-round.

Day 1: Historical Heart of Dresden

  • Morning: Explore the Altstadt (Old Town), marveling at the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) and Zwinger Palace. Climb the Bell Tower of the Frauenkirche for panoramic views.
  • Lunch: Sample local cuisine at “Schillergarten” with its beautiful outdoor terrace.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Semper Opera House, a masterpiece of architecture. Take a guided tour or attend a performance if possible.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner and drinks along the picturesque Elbe River at “Restaurant an der Frauenkirche”.

Day 2: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in art at the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters Picture Gallery), home to masterpieces by Raphael, Rembrandt, and Dürer.

  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at “Bäckerei Schmidt” for delicious pastries and sandwiches.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Dresden Porcelain Collection (Porzellansammlung) and marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of Meissen porcelain.

  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dresden’s Neustadt district, with numerous bars, pubs, and restaurants.

Day 3: Panoramic Views & Green Spaces

  • Morning: Take a ferry ride along the Elbe River for stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Lunch: Picnic in Großer Garten (Great Garden), a sprawling park with a palace, zoo, and botanical garden.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Brühl’s Terrace, a picturesque promenade overlooking the Elbe River. Enjoy a coffee or ice cream while soaking in the view.

Day 4: Day Trip & Farewell Dinner

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Moritzburg Castle, a magnificent baroque palace surrounded by a stunning park and lake.

  • Lunch: Savor traditional Saxon cuisine at “Schlossrestaurant Moritzburg” within the castle grounds.

  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at “Ratskeller Dresden”, renowned for its historic ambiance and delicious local dishes.

Tips:

  • Purchase the Dresden Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions.
  • Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Learn a few basic German phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
  • Take advantage of the walking tours offered by various companies.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Dresden!