Dresden 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Dresden

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Centre

  • Morning: Check-in at your preferred accommodation. We recommend “Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski” or “Hotel Schloss Gärnhain”.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Frauenkirche, a symbol of Dresden’s resilience after World War II, and the nearby Courtyard Square (Neumarkt).
  • Evening: Stroll along Elbe Promenade and enjoy sunset views over the river. For dinner, try traditional German cuisine at “Zur Tuchmacherin”.
  • Useful Tips: Purchase a Saxony Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions.

Day 2: Museum Island & Royal Palace

  • Morning: Explore the Museum Island, home to the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, the Grünes Gewölbe, and the Mathildenhöhe.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Royal Palace (Residenzschloss), including the Dresden Castle and the Historic Green Vault.
  • Evening: Dine at “Café de Paris”, an iconic Art Nouveau restaurant, or grab a bite from local street food vendors around Neumarkt.

Day 3: Brühl’s Terrace & The Zwinger

  • Morning: Walk along Brühl’s Terrace for panoramic views of the Elbe valley and Dresden. Don’t forget to see the Procession of Princes mosaic!
  • Afternoon: Visit The Zwinger, an 18th-century baroque palace hosting various museums such as the Porcelain Collection (Porzellan-Museum) and the Old Masters Gallery (Alte Meister).
  • Evening: Relax at “Japanisches Palais” for authentic Japanese cuisine or dine at a local brewery, “Braustelle Dresden”.

Day 4: Frauenkirche & Surroundings

  • Morning: Return to the Frauenkirche to climb its tower (for an additional fee) and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Albertinum, a contemporary art museum, and the Hygiene Museum.
  • Evening: For dinner, head to “Gaststätte Max” in the Neustadt district or enjoy a meal at “Zur Goldenen Eule” in Altstadt.

Day 5: Day Trip - Pillnitz Palace & Elbe Sandstone Mountains

  • Morning: Take a train to Pillnitz Palace, located on the outskirts of Dresden. Marvel at its Baroque architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Afternoon: Embark on a hike in the nearby Elbe Sandstone Mountains (Saxon Switzerland National Park), enjoying scenic views and rock formations.
  • Evening: Return to Dresden, have dinner, and prepare for your departure the next day.

Travel Tips:

  • The best way to get around Dresden is by foot or tram. Purchase a Saxon Ticket for unlimited travel on public transport.
  • For a unique perspective of the city, take a boat tour along the Elbe River.
  • Respect local customs and etiquette, especially during meal times.
  • Enjoy your trip to Dresden! 😊