The Best Things to See and Do in Dresden

The eastern German city of Dresden is known for its world-class art museums and treasure trove of beautiful historic architecture.

The third-largest city in Germany enjoys a mild climate thanks to its position among sheltering hills and a southern valley. This means Dresden is a brilliant place to visit at any time of year. Whether you’re exploring renowned galleries or visiting Dresden’s architectural gems, a short break in the city is always a good idea.

Zwinger

This Baroque-style place was built in 1709 and is an absolute must-visit while you’re in Dresden. The Zwinger Palace structure itself is a sight to behold, from the Crown Gate to the Rampart Pavilion, though what’s inside is just as impressive. 

There are various museums to be discovered inside Zwinger Palace. The Dresden porcelain collection is one of the largest of its kind in the world, while the armoury boasts weapons, suits of armour, and ceremonial pieces spanning a broad history. 

The Semper Gallery, which was built in the mid-1800s, contains many important Baroque and Renaissance period paintings, including Raphael’s Sistine Madonna.

Old Masters Gallery

Within the Zwinger, visit the Old Masters Gallery, or Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, and immerse yourself in its world of masterpieces. The high-ceilinged halls are home to plenty of recognisable pieces as well as many more impressive works from global artists. 

New Masters Gallery

The New Masters Gallery, or Galerie Neue Meister, is home to around 300 pieces from the 19th century to the modern-day. Visitors can enjoy works from Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Edgar Degas, while there are also sculptures from the period on display.

Frauenkirche Dresden

The Dresden Frauenkirche, or the Church of Our Lady, is another impressive example of Baroque-style architecture and well worth a visit during your trip. 

Semperoper Dresden

The Semperoper is Dresden’s famous opera house, and the home of the Sächsische Staatsoper Dresden, the state opera whose performances usually sell out. If you know you’re going to be in Dresden at the time of a performance, try to get tickets and enjoy a memorable evening in the city’s historic venue.

Dresden City Museum

This museum is dedicated to Dresden’s history, addressing various aspects of cultural and economic development over centuries past. There are more than 1,000 items to discover across several floors. 

The Dresden City Museum has been located inside the Landhaus since 1966. The building is Baroque, Rococo and early-classical in style. After being built as an administrative centre, the Landhaus became the museum we know today following its World War Two destruction and subsequent rebuild.

The best hotels in Dresden

Elevate your time away by choosing a hotel near Dresden Central Station. The Pullman Dresden Newa Hotel is conveniently situated in the city centre, close to the Zwinger and other important attractions. When you choose Pullman as your host, you can be sure of contemporary style, elegance, and ease from the moment you arrive.