Outdoor Activities in Dresden

Discover the charm of Dresden, a city nestled along the Elbe River in Eastern Germany, by immersing yourself in its rich outdoor activities. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time exploring this beautiful city.

Elbe Cycle Path (Elberadweg)

The Elbe Cycle Path is a popular route for cyclists, stretching from Source to Sea, offering stunning views of the river and nearby landscapes. In Dresden, start at Neustadt and follow the path towards Elbtalbrücke, where you can witness the breathtaking sight of four bridges over the Elbe.

Großer Garten

A baroque-style park established in 1728, Großen Garten is one of Europe’s largest city gardens. The park is home to several monumental buildings, including the Belvedere Palace and the Zwinger. Don’t miss the beautiful Japanese Garden within its boundaries.

Hiking in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains (Sächsische Schweiz)

A short train ride from Dresden lies the picturesque Elbe Sandstone Mountains, a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails of varying difficulty levels. Explore Bastei Bridge, a natural sandstone rock formation offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Floßtreideln

Experience a unique way of sightseeing by floating along the Elbe River on traditional barges called Floßtreideln. These floating platforms, maneuvered by long poles, provide a relaxing and scenic journey through Dresden’s historic center.

Dresdner Heide

Escape the city and explore Dresdner Heide, a large forested area with numerous hiking and cycling trails. The park offers tranquility and beautiful vistas of the surrounding region. Don’t forget to visit the historic Radeberg brewery nearby!

Outdoor Swimming Pools (Badeseen)

On hot summer days, cool off at one of Dresden’s outdoor swimming pools. The most famous is Bad Schandau am Elbsandsteingebirge, located near the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Other popular options include Badstraße and Bühlauer Teich in Dresden.

Tip:

• Always check the weather forecast before heading out on longer hikes or cycling trips.
• Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for the season.
• Consider purchasing a Saxony Day Ticket (S-Tageskarte) for unlimited public transportation within Dresden and its surroundings.