How to Spend 1 Day in Dresden

Cultural landmarks and a charming Old Town draw travelers to the vibrant eastern German city of Dresden. With just one day, you can visit the renowned opera house, taste traditional German beers, and discover local street art. Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in Dresden. 

Morning: Welcome to Dresden

Start the day exploring the city with an introductory tour, perhaps aboard a double-decker hop-on hop-off bus. On a scenic ride through the historic center, you can take in Dresden landmarks and the city’s art nouveau architecture. City tours by private vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off are also available and often include top attractions such as the opera house. For a more intimate take, learn about local history during a walking tour through the Old Town, and hear stories about how Dresden rebuilt after World War II bombings. See city landmarks including Zwinger Palace and the Church of Our Lady during a guided stroll. 

Afternoon: Art, Music, and Markets

Discover the creative side of Dresden with a tour focused on street art. Follow your guide on a walk through the trendy Outer New Town (Äussere Neustadt) district, and see a variety of murals and street art in off-the-beaten-path locations. Continue the cultural afternoon with a visit to the Dresden Opera (Dresdner Semperoper), where you can skip the line with priority admission and join a guided tour. Travelers interested in history may want to check out Panometer Dresden, a museum with giant panoramic paintings that depict how Dresden looked at different points in history, for example in 1756 and 1945. Seasonal guided tours in Dresden include a private tour of the city’s Christmas markets. 

Night: Custom Tours and Ghost Stories

Join a local guide for a customized tour of Dresden by night. Design the itinerary according to your interests, exploring anything from under-the-radar neighborhoods to traditional restaurants and bars. Alternatively, enjoy a themed evening tour, such as a history-focused tour led by a costumed guide. Join a night watchman for an after-dark walk through the Old Town to hear ghost stories and spooky tales. Some tours also include a traditional meal and samples of German beers.