#VisitDresden
Dresden Elbland
Rediscovering the holiday experience
After months spent in lockdown, we can get back to exploring the beauty that is all around us. Dresden Elbland is an inspiration on so many different levels: excellent wines savoured in the vineyards where they have been grown; modern accommodation set amid rural tranquillity; famous landmarks to be discovered on well-signposted hiking trails.
The green ribbon of the Elbe floodplain runs through the entire Dresden Elbland region, and along its meadowed banks runs the Elbe Cycle Route. A short climb through sleepy vineyards past authentic pop-up wine stalls and rustic taverns leads you to panoramic views of the city’s baroque skyline.
Or maybe you would prefer to put on your hiking boots? Treat yourself to several days of spectacular scenery, stopping off at attractions – manmade and natural – that will linger in your memory. Discover the castles, parks and gardens of Dresden Elbland and enjoy culinary delights along the way: coffee and Eierschecke cake in the afternoon, followed by rustic German-Bohemian cuisine in the evening (accompanied of course by fabulous regional wines).
Would you like to know more? Discover Dresden Elbland with us.
Ten recommendations for a relaxing holiday
Parks and gardens
The charming parks and gardens of Dresden Elbland are in full bloom right now, with vast expanses of greenery punctuated by artistic sandstone sculptures and offset by the blue of lakes, fishponds and moats. The baroque gardens in Pillnitz, Grosssedlitz and Zabeltitz look like paintings ready to be hung in a gallery.
Castle & Park Pillnitz
Pillnitz Castle with its Chinese-influenced architecture is one of the most fascinating stately homes in Europe. It is surrounded by vineyards and commands a wonderful view of the Elbe valley. Pillnitz Castle and Park is the perfect destination for a family outing.
Great Garden Dresden
Dresden’s green lung is the ideal place to relax at the end of a hectic tour of the Old Town. Baroque sculptures line the paths and drives.
Adult visitors can hire a rowing boat on the central Carolateich, while the highlight for younger members of the family will surely be a ride on the park’s own miniature railway.
Parks and gardens
The charming parks and gardens of Dresden Elbland are in full bloom right now, with vast expanses of greenery punctuated by artistic sandstone sculptures and offset by the blue of lakes, fishponds and moats. The baroque gardens in Pillnitz, Grosssedlitz and Zabeltitz look like paintings ready to be hung in a gallery.
Castle & Park Pillnitz
Pillnitz Castle with its Chinese-influenced architecture is one of the most fascinating stately homes in Europe. It is surrounded by vineyards and commands a wonderful view of the Elbe valley. Pillnitz Castle and Park is the perfect destination for a family outing.
Great Garden Dresden
Dresden’s green lung is the ideal place to relax at the end of a hectic tour of the Old Town. Baroque sculptures line the paths and drives.
Adult visitors can hire a rowing boat on the central Carolateich, while the highlight for younger members of the family will surely be a ride on the park’s own miniature railway.
Baroque Garden Grosssedlitz
Discover the Versailles of Saxony. Unchanged for almost 300 years, the baroque garden is one of the most extraordinary to be found north of the Alps. Over 1,200 orange trees bring a hint of the Mediterranean to the Elbe valley.
If you’re there at the right time of year, the visitors’ shop will have some jars of Dresden bitter orange marmalade in stock.
Bike tours
You can discover so much more on a bike. The popular Elbe Cycle Route winds its way through the heart of Dresden Elbland, all the way from Pirna in the south-east to Meissen in the north-west. We have put together twelve particularly beautiful tours on komoot.com, ranging from a leisurely family outing to a sporting challenge. Great discoveries and nature galore all along the way!
Saxony wine tour
This bike tour takes in various estates. Saxony may be one of the smallest wine-growing regions in Germany, but thanks to the special climate of the Elbe Valley around Dresden, the wines that grow on its slopes are some of the most exquisite you will ever encounter. Discover, taste, enjoy.
Elbe Cycle Route
This must surely be one of the most beautiful long-distance cycle paths in Germany. An especially attractive section leads through Dresden Elbland. Cultural landmarks and beautiful scenery are your constant companions as you pedal along the banks of the Elbe. And at the end of a tiring day, there is accommodation for every age bracket and budget, ranging from simple guesthouses to holiday apartments and hotels.
Our recommendation: Be sure to stop off at the pop-up stalls serving wine and cheese.
Bike tours
You can discover so much more on a bike. The popular Elbe Cycle Route winds its way through the heart of Dresden Elbland, all the way from Pirna in the south-east to Meissen in the north-west. We have put together twelve particularly beautiful tours on komoot.com, ranging from a leisurely family outing to a sporting challenge. Great discoveries and nature galore all along the way!
Saxony wine tour
This bike tour takes in various estates. Saxony may be one of the smallest wine-growing regions in Germany, but thanks to the special climate of the Elbe Valley around Dresden, the wines that grow on its slopes are some of the most exquisite you will ever encounter. Discover, taste, enjoy.
Elbe Cycle Route
This must surely be one of the most beautiful long-distance cycle paths in Germany. An especially attractive section leads through Dresden Elbland. Cultural landmarks and beautiful scenery are your constant companions as you pedal along the banks of the Elbe. And at the end of a tiring day, there is accommodation for every age bracket and budget, ranging from simple guesthouses to holiday apartments and hotels.
Our recommendation: Be sure to stop off at the pop-up stalls serving wine and cheese.
Castles, palaces and stately homes
Magnificent palaces overlooking the city; romantic castles surrounded by consummately landscaped parks and gardens: join us on a journey through time, discovering a history of contrasting fortunes and the treasures within these ancient walls.
Hartenfels Castle (Torgau)
A masterpiece of the Renaissance and a hub for great exhibitions, museums, memorials and tourist attractions. Martin Luther, Lucas Cranach, Napoleon – they all left their mark on Hartenfels Castle. There is an abundance of history waiting to be discovered.
Royal Palace of Dresden
The palace built for the kings of Saxony is a stunning sight. The magnificent interior has now been fully restored to its pre-war grandeur: the Riesensaal (Giant Hall) full of extravagantly decorated armour, a touch of the Orient in the Türckische Cammer (Turkish Chamber), and the list goes on. The best thing is to plan your own itinerary around this historical complex.
Castles, palaces and stately homes
Magnificent palaces overlooking the city; romantic castles surrounded by consummately landscaped parks and gardens: join us on a journey through time, discovering a history of contrasting fortunes and the treasures within these ancient walls.
Hartenfels Castle (Torgau)
A masterpiece of the Renaissance and a hub for great exhibitions, museums, memorials and tourist attractions. Martin Luther, Lucas Cranach, Napoleon – they all left their mark on Hartenfels Castle. There is an abundance of history waiting to be discovered.
Royal Palace of Dresden
The palace built for the kings of Saxony is a stunning sight. The magnificent interior has now been fully restored to its pre-war grandeur: the Riesensaal (Giant Hall) full of extravagantly decorated armour, a touch of the Orient in the Türckische Cammer (Turkish Chamber), and the list goes on. The best thing is to plan your own itinerary around this historical complex.
Moritzburg
Moritzburg Castle is ideal for an outing that offers fresh air and beautiful scenery as well as plenty to see and activities with family appeal. The attractions include a fascinating museum and a climbing garden for the ultimate test of courage.
Surrounded by an idyllic moat and dense forest is the palace itself – the backdrop for the ever-popular movie Three Wishes for Cinderella. Inside the baroque castle, you can see how Augustus the Strong and his retinue lived when they left the main residence in Dresden for a hunting and fishing trip. A pleasant stroll along the Königsweg (King’s Path) in the grounds of the castle takes you past the fishponds (of which there are no fewer than 25), through landscaped gardens to the smaller Fasanenschlösschen (Pheasant Castle) and lake with its mini-harbour and lighthouse. We especially recommend that you visit the natural game reserve with more than 30 native species of animals such as red deer, forest cats, moose and wolves.
Special exhibition: Mythos August
2020 is the 350th anniversary of the birth of Augustus the Strong, who has left his mark at so many locations throughout Saxony. The special exhibition transports visitors to a world of baroque splendour. Could August the Strong really bend horseshoes? And how many wives and children did he actually have?
Accommodation in a fairy-tale setting
Would you like to spend a couple of nights where Cinderella found her prince? You have the opportunity just a short walk away from the fairy-tale castle with its moat and fishponds. Sweet dreams!
Moritzburg
Moritzburg Castle is ideal for an outing that offers fresh air and beautiful scenery as well as plenty to see and activities with family appeal. The attractions include a fascinating museum and a climbing garden for the ultimate test of courage.
Surrounded by an idyllic moat and dense forest is the palace itself – the backdrop for the ever-popular movie Three Wishes for Cinderella. Inside the baroque castle, you can see how Augustus the Strong and his retinue lived when they left the main residence in Dresden for a hunting and fishing trip. A pleasant stroll along the Königsweg (King’s Path) in the grounds of the castle takes you past the fishponds (of which there are no fewer than 25), through landscaped gardens to the smaller Fasanenschlösschen (Pheasant Castle) and lake with its mini-harbour and lighthouse. We especially recommend that you visit the natural game reserve with more than 30 native species of animals such as red deer, forest cats, moose and wolves.
Special exhibition: Mythos August
2020 is the 350th anniversary of the birth of Augustus the Strong, who has left his mark at so many locations throughout Saxony. The special exhibition transports visitors to a world of baroque splendour. Could August the Strong really bend horseshoes? And how many wives and children did he actually have?
Accommodation in a fairy-tale setting
Would you like to spend a couple of nights where Cinderella found her prince? You have the opportunity just a short walk away from the fairy-tale castle with its moat and fishponds. Sweet dreams!
Game parks and zoos
Elephants, tigers and much more besides!
Dresden Zoo
From traditional zoo to extensive game parks and outdoor activity centres, Dresden Elbland offers opportunities to see wildlife in a controlled as well as natural habitat.
Moritzburg game reserve
On this 40-hectare game reserve, you can get almost within touching distance of the native fauna, including red deer, moose, roe deer, wolves, mouflons and raccoons, all of which can be observed in near natural enclosures.
Game parks and zoos
Elephants, tigers and much more besides!
Dresden Zoo
Come along on a voyage of discovery for the whole family. Find out little-known facts about elephants, snow leopards, giraffes and many more species from around the world.
Moritzburg game reserve
On this 40-hectare game reserve, you can get almost within touching distance of the native fauna, including red deer, moose, roe deer, wolves, mouflons and raccoons, all of which can be observed in near natural enclosures.
Naturerlebniszentrum Hebelei
Since 1972, the ‘Nature Experience Centre’ at Hebelei in a bend of the Elbe river has provided a refuge for endangered breeds of domesticated animals. Visitors of all ages will enjoy discovering interesting facts about Zackel sheep, Scottish highland cattle, grey herons and cormorants. Regional produce is on sale at the farmers’ market.
Hiking
An extensive, well-marked network of paths takes visitors to beauty spots in and around Dresden Elbland. A short walk? The classic full-day day hike? A marathon in stages? A wine tour on foot – with tasting, of course? A sporting challenge with steep ascents, or rather a leisurely stroll in the country? You choose a distance, a duration and a level of exertion to suit yourself. You’re bound to make plenty of wonderful discoveries whatever you decide to do. So, let’s get going!
Saxon Wine Trail
90 kilometres of wonderful views, picturesque hiking trails and Saxon vineyards. In the valley below, the paddle steamers splash their way along the Elbe. Along the way, you stop off at wine cellars and roadside stalls to sample the local varieties. It’s a unique blend of Saxon and Mediterranean-style hospitality.
Ten hiking tours off the beaten track
Leisure tours through the vineyards on the right bank of the Elbe, idyllic hiking trails through the extensive forest and woodlands on the left bank, cool and shady gorges and sunny uplands – the sheer diversity of Dresden Elbland is waiting to be discovered on ten selected hiking routes.Download our Komoot app.
Hiking
An extensive, well-marked network of paths takes visitors to beauty spots in and around Dresden Elbland. A short walk? The classic full-day day hike? A marathon in stages? A wine tour on foot – with tasting, of course? A sporting challenge with steep ascents, or rather a leisurely stroll in the country? You choose a distance, a duration and a level of exertion to suit yourself. You’re bound to make plenty of wonderful discoveries whatever you decide to do. So, let’s get going!
Saxon Wine Trail
90 kilometres of wonderful views, picturesque hiking trails and Saxon vineyards. In the valley below, the paddle steamers splash their way along the Elbe. Along the way, you stop off at wine cellars and roadside stalls to sample the local varieties. It’s a unique blend of Saxon and Mediterranean-style hospitality.
Ten hiking tours off the beaten track
Leisure tours through the vineyards on the right bank of the Elbe, idyllic hiking trails through the extensive forest and woodlands on the left bank, cool and shady gorges and sunny uplands – the sheer diversity of Dresden Elbland is waiting to be discovered on ten selected hiking routes.Download our Komoot app.
Transport through the ages
The pace of life is far from hectic in Dresden Elbland. Take, for example, the Elbe paddle steamer fleet, the oldest and largest of its kind in the world.
Nine historic ships, almost all built in the 19th century, are still partly powered by their original steam engines. And then there is the famous Lössnitzdackel, a steam locomotive that takes passengers on the heritage railway line from Radebeul to Radeburg. But there is so much more to discover. Browse our site.
Saxon Steam Navigation Company
There could hardly be a more relaxing way to discover the Elbe valley than on board a historic paddle steamer. There is something so soothing about the steady chug-chug of the steam engine as the ship plies the waters of the Elbe. The Dresden skyline, Meissen’s castle hill, idyllic vineyards and imposing sandstone formations glide by while a cooling breeze compensates for the midday sun.
Lössnitzgrundbahn
A ride on the Lössnitzdackel steam railway is a great family occasion.
You don’t have to plan your day out as a simple Radebeul return journey, as there are number of attractions accessible from stations on the route, for example the lakes and forests around Dippelsdorf.
Transport through the ages
The pace of life is far from hectic in Dresden Elbland. Take, for example, the Elbe paddle steamer fleet, the oldest and largest of its kind in the world.
Nine historic ships, almost all built in the 19th century, are still partly powered by their original steam engines. And then there is the famous Lössnitzdackel, a steam locomotive that takes passengers on the heritage railway line from Radebeul to Radeburg. But there is so much more to discover. Browse our site.
Saxon Steam Navigation Company
There could hardly be a more relaxing way to discover the Elbe valley than on board a historic paddle steamer. There is something so soothing about the steady chug-chug of the steam engine as the ship plies the waters of the Elbe. The Dresden skyline, Meissen’s castle hill, idyllic vineyards and imposing sandstone formations glide by while a cooling breeze compensates for the midday sun.
Lössnitzgrundbahn
A ride on the Lössnitzdackel steam railway is a great family occasion.
You don’t have to plan your day out as a simple Radebeul return journey, as there are number of attractions accessible from stations on the route, for example the lakes and forests around Dippelsdorf.
Meissen
Not all that far from Dresden, and yet so different in character: the former royal residence of Meissen with its late Gothic Albrechtsburg Castle adjoining the 13th century cathedral is a major tourist attraction, and not only for porcelain lovers. Nearby are several eminent winegrowing estates. How about a wine hike (with benefits) next weekend?
Porcelain Manufactory Meissen
Meissen porcelain is world-famous, and it is produced here in Europe’s oldest porcelain manufactory. In the show workshops, you can watch the skilled craftsmen and women as they create individual works of art. The Porcelain Museum takes you on a journey through 300 years of porcelain making.
Our recommendation: In the visitor shop, you can purchase your very own personalised piece of porcelain art.
Hiking route through the vineyards
Meissen prides itself on being the ‘cradle of Saxony’ – the first vines were planted 900 years ago and the foundations of an illustrious history were laid here. A panoramic tour on foot takes you through the vineyards of Proschwitz Castle estate. Marvel at the breathtaking views over the Elbe valley towards Albrechtsburg Castle on the hilltop opposite.
Our recommendation: When you have built up an appetite from exploring Meissen and its surroundings on foot, discover the delicious regional cuisine in one of the many welcoming restaurants.
Meissen
Not all that far from Dresden, and yet so different in character: the former royal residence of Meissen with its late Gothic Albrechtsburg Castle adjoining the 13th century cathedral is a major tourist attraction, and not only for porcelain lovers. Nearby are several eminent winegrowing estates. How about a wine hike (with benefits) next weekend?
Porcelain Manufactory Meissen
Meissen porcelain is world-famous, and it is produced here in Europe’s oldest porcelain manufactory. In the show workshops, you can watch the skilled craftsmen and women as they create individual works of art. The Porcelain Museum takes you on a journey through 300 years of porcelain making.
Our recommendation: In the visitor shop, you can purchase your very own personalised piece of porcelain art.
Hiking route through the vineyards
Meissen prides itself on being the ‘cradle of Saxony’ – the first vines were planted 900 years ago and the foundations of an illustrious history were laid here. A panoramic tour on foot takes you through the vineyards of Proschwitz Castle estate. Marvel at the breathtaking views over the Elbe valley towards Albrechtsburg Castle on the hilltop opposite.
Our recommendation: When you have built up an appetite from exploring Meissen and its surroundings on foot, discover the delicious regional cuisine in one of the many welcoming restaurants.
Wine Culture
The northernmost wine-growing region in Germany has won many awards for its wines – classic and new. On the outskirts of Dresden is Schloss Wackerbarth, a wine estate centred on a baroque palace and garden complex and a pioneer in active programmes for visitors. The region has many other estates, cellars and taverns where visitors are welcome to look around and taste the goods. Our recommendation: The Saxon Wine Trail between Pirna and Diesbar-Seusslitz is a remarkable blend of Mediterranean-style hospitality and regional wines.
Erlebnisweingut Schloss Wackerbarth
The Erlebnisweingut (literally ‘Wine Experience’) at Wackerbarth Castle on the outskirts of Dresden welcomes you to a realm of the senses. In his time, Augustus the Strong staged extravagant festivities here. Within the confines of the baroque palace complex high above the suburb of Radebeul, exquisite wines have been pressed for many hundreds of years.
Interesting footnote: At Wackerbarth Castle, sparkling wine has been made according to the Champagne method for 180 years. We are sure you will find a tour of the estate’s wine cellars enlightening.
Weingut Hoflößnitz
Here on the south-facing slopes above Lössnitz, grapes have been cultivated since 1401. Surrounded by landmarks with illustrious names such as Golden Carriage and Radebeul Stone Ridge, you can relax and let your gaze wander as you savour the superior local wines. An idyllic gem of Saxon wine culture – romantic, unpretentious and away from the hustle and bustle of town.
Our recommendation: Why not book your overnight stay right away?
Wine Culture
The northernmost wine-growing region in Germany has won many awards for its wines – classic and new. On the outskirts of Dresden is Schloss Wackerbarth, a wine estate centred on a baroque palace and garden complex and a pioneer in active programmes for visitors. The region has many other estates, cellars and taverns where visitors are welcome to look around and taste the goods. Our recommendation: The Saxon Wine Trail between Pirna and Diesbar-Seusslitz is a remarkable blend of Mediterranean-style hospitality and regional wines.
Wackerbarth Castle
The Erlebnisweingut (literally ‘Wine Experience’) at Wackerbarth Castle on the outskirts of Dresden welcomes you to a realm of the senses. In his time, Augustus the Strong staged extravagant festivities here. Within the confines of the baroque palace complex high above the suburb of Radebeul, exquisite wines have been pressed for many hundreds of years.
Interesting footnote: At Wackerbarth Castle, sparkling wine has been made according to the Champagne method for 180 years. We are sure you will find a tour of the estate’s wine cellars enlightening.
Weingut Hoflößnitz
Here on the south-facing slopes above Lössnitz, grapes have been cultivated since 1401. Surrounded by landmarks with illustrious names such as Golden Carriage and Radebeul Stone Ridge, you can relax and let your gaze wander as you savour the superior local wines. An idyllic gem of Saxon wine culture – romantic, unpretentious and away from the hustle and bustle of town.
Our recommendation: Why not book your overnight stay right away?
Weingut Schloss Proschwitz Prinz zur Lippe
This eminent estate in the heart of the Saxon winegrowing region has ten double rooms and two holiday apartments where guests can spend quality time in a rural setting and enjoy days out visiting the surrounding attractions.
Camping & Caravanning
Holidaymakers who prefer to keep their options open and bring their own accommodation are spoilt for choice when it comes to campsites in the beautiful countryside of the Elbe Valley. Whether you are setting up a small tent, arriving in a camper van or towing a caravan, you can pitch up next to one of the many lakes in the region or on the banks of the river itself. From there, you can set off in all directions along an extensive network of hiking and cycling paths. We wish you a safe journey and an enjoyable stay!
Camping map
You decide where you want to relax, eat and sleep: in the hiking and wine-growing area around Meissen, in the forest and lake landscape around Moritzburg or within the city boundaries of Dresden, convenient for the famous art treasures.
Parking for camper vans
The region has 21 motorhome pitches and 12 campsites, all in beautiful natural surroundings.
Camping & Caravanning
Holidaymakers who prefer to keep their options open and bring their own accommodation are spoilt for choice when it comes to campsites in the beautiful countryside of the Elbe Valley. Whether you are setting up a small tent, arriving in a camper van or towing a caravan, you can pitch up next to one of the many lakes in the region or on the banks of the river itself. From there, you can set off in all directions along an extensive network of hiking and cycling paths. We wish you a safe journey and an enjoyable stay!
Here you can find all campsites at a glance.
You decide where you want to relax, eat and sleep: in the hiking and wine-growing area around Meissen, in the forest and lake landscape around Moritzburg or within the city boundaries of Dresden, convenient for the famous art treasures.
Parking for camper vans
The region has 21 motorhome pitches and 12 campsites, all in beautiful natural surroundings.