Dresden 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Baroque Beauty of Dresden

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Eszterhazy, a popular spot known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
  • Head to the Dresden Castle (Residenzschloss Dresden) and explore the exhibitions inside, including the Green Vault, one of Europe’s oldest treasure chambers.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the adjoining Courtyard (Cour d’Honneur), with its stunning baroque architecture.

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Frauenkirche, the iconic Church of Our Lady, which was rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
  • Explore the Neumarkt Square and its surrounding area, filled with charming shops, cafes, and the beautiful Semper Opera House.
  • If you’re interested in art, don’t miss the Galerie Neue Meister at the State Museum of Art (Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden).

Evening:

  • For dinner, head to Zur Türe, a historic tavern serving traditional Saxon dishes.
  • End your day with a relaxing walk along the Elbe Riverbank Promenade, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Day 2: Discovering Dresden’s Cultural Heart

Morning:

  • Start your day early at Mamacoffee, a cozy café with excellent coffee and pastries.
  • Visit the Dresden Museum of Military History (Militärhistorisches Museum der Bundeswehr) to learn about Germany’s military history.
  • Head to the Brühl’s Terrace for a stunning view of the Elbe Valley and the city.

Afternoon:

  • Visit the German Hygiene Museum, an interactive museum that offers insights into health, hygiene, and medicine throughout history.
  • Stroll through the Japanese Palace and its beautiful gardens.
  • Explore the vibrant Albertinum Museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art.

Evening:

  • For dinner, try FishBar Dresden, a seafood restaurant with an innovative menu.
  • Cap off your evening with a visit to the Lockvogel Brücke, a beautiful bridge lit up at night, offering a romantic view of the Elbe River and the city.

Things to Know:

  • Dresden is known as “Florence on the Elbe” due to its baroque architecture and cultural importance.
  • The city operates a comprehensive transport system with trams, buses, and trains.
  • The city center is mostly pedestrianized, so walking is a great way to explore.
  • English is spoken at most tourist attractions and restaurants, but learning a few basic German phrases can be helpful.

Tips:

  • Purchase the Dresden Card for free or reduced entry to many attractions, as well as discounts on public transportation.
  • Try local specialties like Leipziger Allerlei (a meat and vegetable casserole) and Dresdner Stachelschwein (roasted pork with mustard).
  • Visit during the Dresden Festspiele for a cultural extravaganza, or during winter to see the city lit up for Christmas.