The Happy Jetlagger

Tag: Dresden

Looking for tips for Dresden? Here you will find stories, travel tips and inspiration for the impressive city by the Elbe river!

Find more great travel destinations within Germany here: Destinations in Germany

From Dresden to the Bastei Bridge: The Perfect Day Trip to Saxon Switzerland
Dresden is undoubtedly a fantastic destination. However, after seeing photos of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, I’ve been eager to visit the nearby area. In this article, I’ll guide you on a day trip from Dresden to the Bastei Bridge! I’ll highlight the most stunning spots around the Bastei, share some hidden gems most tourists miss, and honestly advise you on whether a guided tour is worth it and when you can skip the expense.

The Most Beautiful Highlights Around the Bastei Bridge

The Bastei Bridge is the most visited spot in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. The bridge draws more than 1.5 million visitors annually, and it’s understandable why: the stone bridge nestled among the bizarre rock formations of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains is truly worthwhile to visit.

The Bastei Bridge in Saxon Switzerland

Built in 1851—to replace a wooden bridge that had been carrying visitors to the cliffs and what was then known as the Felsenburg since 1826—it spans 76.5 meters and crosses a 40-meter-deep gorge called Mardertelle. Access is available around the clock and free of charge, as is the entire Saxon Switzerland National Park.
The Basics:
Day Trip to the Bastei Bridge
Distance: approx. 40 km south-east of Dresden (approx. 50 min. by car, 35-40 min. by S-Bahn to Rathen)

Admission: free and access is open 24/7.

Duration: Approx. 4 hours/half day for arrival by S-Bahn, ferry and hiking trail to the bridge. With long hike, Schwedenlöchern and/or short coffee break: full day.

How to get there: S-Bahn S1 from Dresden main station to Kurort Rathen + ferry + hike (approx. 30-45 min. on foot – my recommendation!) or by car to the Bastei parking lot

Book a guided tour: From approx. €35 per person, pick-up in Dresden included. My recommendation: Day tour to Saxon Switzerland from Dresden*

Best time: During the week, early in the morning or at sunset for the best photos. Note: In good weather, it gets very, very crowded at weekends and on public holidays.
The Bastei bridge isn’t as long as it appears in photos. It blends so well with its surroundings that I nearly didn’t realize I was walking on it. The trail leading there is quite spectacular, featuring numerous viewpoints that provide stunning views of the Elbe valley and the rocky peaks.

Felsenburg Neurathen (Currently Closed)

The ruins of the largest medieval rock castle in Saxon Switzerland are located right in front of the bridge, first documented in the 13th century. You can cross iron footbridges between the rocks and enjoy a entirely different view of the Bastei Bridge.

Currently, you can only view Neurathen Castle from the outside.

Important: Felsenburg Neurathen has been closed since fall 2023 and remains closed until further notice (as of spring 2026). During routine measurements, millimeter-scale rock movements were detected, prompting the national park administration to close access for safety reasons. It is currently unclear when the castle will reopen.

The route across the Bastei Bridge remains open—you can continue crossing as usual and access the viewpoints. Additionally, you can catch a glimpse of the rock castle from the path.

The most recent updates are available on the official website of Saxon Switzerland.

What exactly is the Bastei?

The Bastei is a rock formation in Saxon Switzerland. It’s best known for its fantastic views of the Elbe Valley, the striking sandstone cliffs, and the historic Bastei Bridge, which connects several cliffs. The Bastei is one of the region’s most popular excursion destinations and can easily be visited as a day trip from Dresden.

The Most Beautiful Viewpoints Around the Bastei Bridge

Of course, the Bastei Bridge is the main attraction, but six nearby viewpoints offer unique views of the rocks, the bridge, and the Elbe valley.

You’ll automatically pass these four viewpoints on the ascent from Rathen via the Basteiweg:

Panoramic View Bastei: The viewing platform is situated adjacent to the Berghotel, providing the broadest panorama. From here, you can gaze across the Elbe valley to Wehlen, and extend your view to Rauenstein, Königstein, Lilienstein, and deep into Saxon Switzerland.

The panoramic view towers high above the Elbe valley.

The Ferdinandaussicht is my favorite spot, and it’s where the famous postcard images are captured from. It’s tucked away on the Ferdinandstein, a little rocky lookout just before you reach the Bastei Bridge. The turn-off is easy to miss, and many visitors walk right past without realizing it. We happened to visit on a Sunday—I’d probably suggest visiting on a calmer day if you can, but since it was the only time we had, we followed the crowd. The line of people on the stairs actually helped guide us to this lovely viewpoint.
It’s best to avoid visiting on Sundays or during good weather when the crowds tend to be large.

Waiting in line for a photo might not be my favorite thing either, but this spot offers you the full length of the bridge right in front of you—surrounded by the rock towers with Lilienstein in the background. It’s such a stunning panoramic view and definitely worth a little patience. Catch this view at sunrise, and you’re guaranteed a truly atmospheric and unforgettable scene of the Bastei Bridge.

The Ferdinandaussicht offers an excellent view of the Bastei Bridge.

The Tiedgeaussicht and the Kanapee are lovely spots along the trail to Rathen, perfect for enjoying the beautiful views either while climbing up or heading back down the Basteiweg. The Tiedgeaussicht provides a breathtaking panorama over the Elbe Valley – less dramatic than the Ferdinandaussicht, it still captures the immense beauty of the landscape surrounding the Bastei. Just a few steps further, you’ll find the Kanapee. I was blown away by the view from both spots, feeling as if I had stepped into a painting by Caspar David Friedrich. The sweeping view, with the Elbe meandering through the scenery—it’s absolutely stunning!

The following viewpoints are on an alternative route from Rathen, which is slightly longer but also leads to the Bastei Bridge. You can also complete a full circular hike, including all six viewpoints, by doing the ascent or descent. (We only walked along the Basteiweg).

Pavillonaussicht: located above the Schwedenlöcher, it offers a completely different view of the Bastei Bridge – from above and a little further away, with the surrounding rock formations framing the view.

Wehlsteinaussicht: located to the left in front of the Berghotel. From here you’ll have a view of the Wehlgrund and the “Kleine Gans” and “Große Gans” rock formations.

Thinking about exploring Dresden? Here are some helpful tips to make your trip even better!
Read all articles about Dresden

Many visitors often just head straight for the bridge, snap a few photos, and then walk back to the parking lot. However, you’ll find the most breathtaking spots if you hike up to the Bastei Bridge from Rathen. It’s a bit more challenging and the path is quite steep, but don’t worry—you can do it! Plus, you’ll be treated to incredible views that are totally worth the effort.

Crossing the Elbe on the Cable Ferry

If you’re traveling by S-Bahn from Dresden, you’ll find the ferry right there—it’s a lovely journey connecting the two parts of Rathen on either side of the Elbe. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the S-Bahn station to the ferry landing, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.

The ferry in Rathen is a historic yaw rope ferry powered only by the Elbe’s current. This allows you to enjoy a quiet ride without engine noise and relax while viewing the stunning landscape. After crossing, simply follow the signs to the Bastei Bridge. To take the shorter Basteiweg, stay to the left.

The hiking trails leading to Bastei Bridge start across the river in Rathen.

Additional Insider Tips About the Bastei

Before my trip, I gathered some tips I didn’t end up testing, but I noted them for my next visit.

Elbe Cruises From Dresden

By the way, during the season, tour boats also stop at the pier, and you can take short boat trips along the Elbe from Dresden on them.

Schwedenlöcher (Swedish Holes)

The Schwedenlöcher is a narrow, shady gorge featuring steep wooden steps and moss-covered rocks. It contains remnants of an erosion landscape millions of years old, resembling a fairytale forest. The hike from the Bastei through the Schwedenlöcher to Rathen typically takes about 45 minutes. Sturdy shoes are essential for this route.

Amselsee (Blackbird Lake)

At the end of Schwedenlöcher, you’ll find the small Amselsee lake, where you can rent a rowing boat for a few euros.

Uttewalder Grund

Starting at the Bastei parking lot, a trail descends to Teufelsgrund and continues to Uttewalder Grund, known for its iconic rock gate. From there, you can hike back to Rathen through Wehlen. This route, called the “Golden Triangle,’ is among the region’s most favored day hikes.

Where To Eat & Drink at the Bastei

A panorama restaurant is located at the Bastei, belonging to the Berghotel Bastei, yet open to all visitors. The atmosphere might seem somewhat formal, but the breathtaking view over the Elbe valley makes it worthwhile.

While I can’t judge the cuisine, I wouldn’t expect any exceptional dishes. However, it was an excellent spot for coffee and delicious cake, offering a nice opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery once more.

A more affordable choice is the snack bar at the panoramic viewpoint, where you can relax at one of the large picnic tables and enjoy snacks like a bratwurst (grilled sausage).

In Rathen, located in the valley, you’ll discover several small restaurants and beer gardens. Whether you’re hiking up from below or descending via the Schwedenlöcher, Rathen makes a convenient stop.

How To Get From Dresden to the Bastei Bridge

Getting there from Dresden is really easy, even without a car. (And it’s actually the most beautiful way.)

By S-Bahn and Ferry to the Bastei (My Recommendation!)

The S-Bahn S1, a regional train, departs from Dresden Central Station toward Schöna roughly every 30 minutes. You can also get on at Dresden-Neustadt or Dresden-Mitte, depending on your hotel’s location.

Are you on the lookout for charming hotels in Dresden?
You’ll find some great deals here

Train station Kurort Rathen

After approximately 35 to 40 minutes, exit at Kurort Rathen station, a small stop right on the Elbe. From the platform, it’s a short walk to the ferry pier. At the pier, you can take the yaw rope ferry across the river to the other side, where the hiking trails to Bastei Bridge start. The crossing only takes a few minutes.

The ferry operates from early morning until midnight, making it convenient to visit the Bastei Bridge at sunrise or sunset via S-Bahn. You can find the exact times in the official timetable.

Total travel time from Dresden main station: approx. 1.5 to 2 hours to the bridge.

You can easily travel straight to Rathen from Dresden main station.

What is the cost of the journey? I found the S-Bahn tickets a bit expensive, so we went with a day ticket, which costs €19 per person. One-way tickets aren’t much cheaper. If you don’t have a Deutschlandticket, the Sachsen-Ticket starting at €27 for up to 5 people, is also valid in Thuringia and could be a better option. Additionally, the Saxon Switzerland Guest Card, often provided by local accommodations, allows free use of regional buses, making travel easier and more affordable.

The round-trip ferry cost is €3. Note that the Deutschlandticket and other public transport tickets cannot be used here.

By Car to the Bastei Bridge

From Dresden city center, it takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes to reach Basteibrücke. You’ll arrive close to the top of the Bastei Bridge and have the option to park in the large main parking lot.

Please note: On sunny weekends and during vacations, the parking lot fills up quickly. You will then be redirected to the reception parking lot, which is about 3 kilometers farther back. A shuttle bus (€1 each way) transports you from there to the bridge, or you can walk. Both parking lots require a fee.

By Bus to the Bastei

Also, bus lines go straight to the Bastei, saving you the hike from Rathen. For instance, line 237 departs from Pirna, which you can reach from Dresden via S-Bahn S1 or S2. Additionally, with the Saxon Switzerland Guest Card, you can travel on these buses for free.

Should You Plan the Day Trip Myself or Opt for a Tour? Here’s My Honest Opinion.

In fact, I never realized how close Dresden is to the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, and I assumed it would be more difficult to get there. However, getting there by S-Bahn is super quick and easy.

That’s why I highly recommend organizing a day trip from Dresden to the Bastei Bridge on your own!

However, joining a group tour has its advantages. Many combined tours also link the Bastei Bridge with other attractions like Königstein Fortress or Bohemian Switzerland, which are difficult to visit in a single day without a car.

The Best Tours From Dresden to the Bastei Bridge

Classic Day Tour by Bus (Bastei + Königstein)

This is the classic, most affordable tour to the Bastei Bridge. You will be picked up in Dresden in the morning, then travel through Saxon Switzerland in a spacious panoramic bus. After a brief visit to the Bastei with a short tour, you’ll be taken to Königstein Fortress. In the afternoon, the return to Dresden is scheduled.

Duration: approx. 7-8 hours

➜ Book the classic tour to the Bastei Bridge here*

Combined Tour: Saxon + Bohemian Switzerland

These full-day tours merge the Bastei Bridge visit with key highlights on the Czech side of Bohemian Switzerland, including the Prebisch Gate, Europe’s largest natural rock gate, and the Kamenice Gorge with a boat trip. Such a comprehensive tour is hardly possible in one day on your own using public transport.

Duration: 8-10 hours

➜ Book the combined tour of Saxon & Bohemian Switzerland here*

What Is the Best Time To Visit the Bastei?

The Bastei Bridge is open all year and worth visiting anytime. In spring and fall, the weather is milder and ideal for hiking, with fewer crowds and better lighting for striking photos. Winter brings snow-covered scenery that feels truly magical, although some paths may be icy and the Rathen ferry runs on a limited schedule. Summer is peak season, especially on weekends and public holidays, making the bridge quite crowded.

Is a Day Trip From Dresden to the Bastei Bridge Worth It?

Absolutely! The Bastei Bridge is genuinely one of the most breathtaking sights you can enjoy near Dresden. The view over the Elbe valley is absolutely stunning, and the bridge itself, tucked right into the middle of the gorge, seems like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Best of all, you can reach it from Dresden in less than an hour—making it a fantastic quick getaway!
09/04/2026
City breaks 2025: these cities in Europe are waiting for you

I want to travel more again, get to know new places and rediscover old ones. Is that what you also set out to do? Then my list of ideas for a few great city trips in Europe is definitely something for you! Just save this post somewhere and you can always get ideas for the next spontaneous city trip throughout the year!

More on the road again: we are traveling for all we’re worth.

Pro tips:
➜ Book early to secure the cheapest tickets: Here you can find cheap flights for your city trips*
➜ Explore Europe’s cities by train: Buy your ticket at the super saver price from Deutsche Bahn* in good time
➜ The best way to book overnight stays is directly via booking.com*. With just a few bookings, you can move up to a higher Genius level and get better deals

#1 Rome

What can I say? Before I tell you about the little insider tips in Rome, you should also have seen the classics in Rome. This city is simply so bombastic and interesting that the usual sights such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain or St. Peter’s Basilica alone are enough to keep you busy.

Spanish Steps in Rome

#2 Seville

Spaniards are generally Mediterranean, warm and open, but Andalusians really go the extra mile. “Hola reina”, “como estás reina”, “aqui tiene reina” – I really like this Andalusian habit of always being affectionately addressed as “reina”, meaning “queen”. If you’re looking for joie de vivre and positive energy, Seville is definitely the place for you!

Tip: Watch the flamenco dancers at the Plaza de España and let yourself be carried away by the passionate atmosphere of a city that is bursting with warmth.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Seville, I recommend the Boutique Hotel La Parada de Marques. It’s relatively new, beautifully designed, and the staff are friendly—you’ll love it.

True to style in an Andalusian old building: My hotel tip for Seville

#3 Paris

Oh Paris! This city is just such a classic. Even though it’s super expensive and most people complain about the grumpy and overly proud French. I really can’t understand that, because I rarely find the French or Parisians rude (well, I also live in Berlin, so I have different standards) and if I were French – hey, I’d be pretty proud of this awesome city too!

Tip: climb the Eiffel Tower during the day(be sure to buy your ticket in advance here*) and admire the glittering Parisian landmark from below in the evening.

More tips for your perfect day in Paris

If you have time: Be sure to visit the Louvre – also a must in Paris!

#4 Zagreb

In Zagreb, I probably experienced the most memorable museum visit of my life: the Museum of Broken Relationships features artifacts from broken relationships. Sounds crazy, and a bit like those tourist museums that are supposed to seem fun, but in the end you’re just annoyed about the money you’ve spent. But it’s very different there, and not only once have the exhibits brought tears to my eyes, whether out of joy or sadness. Definitely worth a recommendation. And Zagreb as a city anyway.

The beautiful roof of St. Mark’s Church in Zagreb

#5 Graz

Okay, Austrians are probably rolling their eyes right now, but to me, Graz—along with Salzburg —is one of Vienna’s little sisters. Less crowded, less overwhelming, but still a mix of tradition, culture, and pretty good cuisine. And thanks to its picturesque location on the Mur River and its green surroundings, Graz is perfect for a relaxing city getaway! By the way: It’s absolutely perfect if you stay at the Grand Hôtel Wiesler, which is right on the Mur River in the city and is simply gorgeous!

Tip: Visit the current exhibition at the Kunsthaus Graz (admire the impressive futuristic building on the side!) and then enjoy the panorama with a glass of wine on the Schlossberg.

View of Graz from the Schlossberg

#6 Vilnius

Vilnius was, so to speak, my last stop of the year (you can find my article about Vilnius here). When I arrived in Vilnius, winter was already just around the corner, and for someone like me—who’s notoriously sensitive to the cold—that was a real challenge. Still, the mix of history, culture, and a young, open atmosphere was really exciting. And at Hotel Pacai, I had one of the most enjoyable hotel stays I’ve had in a long time. It was relatively quiet in the winter, but from previous visits (admittedly, a long time ago), I can still remember how lively it gets here in the summer.

Tip: Vilnius is the only city in Europe where you can float over the city center in a hot air balloon.

Advertising / *affiliate link

Crazy: The former Lukiskies prison in Vilnius now houses an event space

#7 Venice

Venice is always a good idea, and even if Venice is hijacked by tourists in summer – it is still an incredibly fascinating city. The location in the lagoon, the old palazzi, so much art: I’ve actually been to Venice only once, but this was certainly not the last time!

My advice: Go up to the terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi for sunset & browse the shelves at the Libreria Acqua Alta.

Advertising / *affiliate link

Fantastic view over the Grand Canal from the roof terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi

#8 Prague

Last year I unexpectedly ended up in Prague again and was just super happy about the day I got to spend there. Prague is just one of those cities full of history and old glamour and has a very special vibe.

Tip: Walk across Charles Bridge and take a boat trip across the Vltava River*.

It can get crowded on Charles Bridge in the summer, even though it’s so wide!

#9 London

I don’t know if it’s the upcoming coronation of King Charles III or the hype around Harry and Meghan at all, but London has been dominating my Instagram feed lately as far as major cities in Europe go! Well, London always works anyway – so why not consider it for this year?

Tip: Pick up the London Harry Potter vibe at platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross station & then sip champagne at the bar right next door at St.Pancras station.

Très chic: The Champagne Bar at St.Pancras Station

#10 Gdansk

I’ve been to Gdansk a few times and rediscovered some great locations there. For example, it was my first time on the site of the old Gdansk shipyard – and it was so exciting! I hope to go there again in the spring or summer. That’s when the huge crane is open, from where you have a really good view over the city.

More tips & sights in my Gdansk Guide

Especially in summer, the location on the Baltic Sea is worth its weight in gold: in Gdansk you can perfectly combine sightseeing & a beach day in one weekend.

#11 Palma de Mallorca

Actually, my second home, Palma, is already crowded enough in summer. Every year there are new discussions about limiting the number of cruise ships docking and thus the crowds that flood the streets of the old town during the day.

Anyway, the cruise tourists usually flock in the same direction and I still have so many tips for great locations in Palma (like my favorite neighborhood, Molinar) that the mainstream doesn’t know about. So get ready for more insider tips for Palma here on the blog!

Here you will find all tips for Mallorca

My absolute favorite beach in Palma, for reasons 🙂

#12 Hamburg

Hamburg is only an ICE train ride away from Berlin. I like to travel by train anyway, and I don’t let constant delays or a non-existent service culture like from our German train service stop me! (By the way, with the Flixtrain there is still a good alternative to the Deutsche Bahn in Berlin; also not always perfect, but sometimes a refreshing alternative).

My tip for Hamburg: take a harbor tour & explore the food scene – read my Hamburg Food Guide for more information

Advertising / *affiliate link

#13 Madrid

I’ve never been a big fan of Madrid. But after hearing my blogger bestie Sandra rave about so many tips in Madrid all last year, I should give the city another chance and go in search of the best tortillas in Madrid myself.

Advertising / *affiliate link

#14 Dresden

My insider tip for Dresden: The organic café in the Japanese Palace, with its own small garden in the courtyard!

Semper Opera House in Dresden

Small oasis: the café in the Japanese Palace in Dresden

Dresden has always been a beautiful destination. Besides the usual sights like the Zwinger, the Semper Opera and the Frauenkirche, I recommend a trip to the Neustadt where Dresden gets a bit wilder and alternative.

Advertising / *affiliate link

#15 Timisoara

Admittedly, Timisoara and I took off on bad terms. I’ve probably been there too many times, and at a time when Timisoara and, for that matter, the rest of Romania were anything but hip and trendy. Or maybe it was due to the rather revealing nightclub advertisement in the elevator of our crew hotel, which was meant to attract guests to the hotel bar in the basement. And I bet many (mostly male) guests on a business trip were very happy about the hint. Already a very unusual flair for one of the better hotels in town. Be that as it may, Timisoara has been really spruced up in recent years, and perhaps the last windy fortune-hunters will soon disappear.

#16 Lisbon

I realized with horror how long it has been since I’ve been to Lisbon. Yet the Portuguese capital is my absolute place of strength; especially in winter, when it’s gray and dreary in Germany, a sunny day in Lisbon is worth its weight in gold I don’t know what it is, but the light, the water around it, the wind of the Atlantic make it one of my favorite cities in Europe. And of course the Portuguese, the delicious food, the great old town and much more.

More about Lisbon

The best view of Lisbon is from the many miradouros in the city

#17 Faro

After my trip to the Algarve, I almost got stuck in Faro. I just didn’t want to go back to Berlin. What it is, I don’t know, but Faro is possibly just the perfect mix of Portuguese lifestyle, laid-back cafes and stunning beaches just outside the city.

Learn more about Faro in my article on Travellers Insight

Close to Faro you will find the most amazing beaches!

#18 Manchester

Whenever I think of Manchester and English, I always think of that hot potato that every Mancunian seems to have in their mouth when they speak. That broad accent is just so cool! And anyway, I feel a bit at home in Manchester—probably because there are quite a few parallels between Manchester, as an old industrial city, and my home region, the Ruhr area. And hey, we often talk a bit funny there, too, right?

Expert tip for Manchester: Tib Street in the hip Northern Quarter with street art, specialty coffee cafés and craft beer pubs until you drop

#19 Basel

Okay, Basel is in Switzerland, so that makes it extra expensive, and anyway, in Swiss cities you always have to ask yourself if it’s worth having half a heart attack every time you run up a bill at the café. But Basel in summer is just cool because of its Rhine swimming: Put your clothes in the so-called “Wickelfisch” (a waterproof plastic bag), swimwear on, jump into the Rhine and let yourself drift on the Wickelfisch with the quite swift current. Always an amazing experience!

If you don’t want to swim: You can also chill out by the Rhine in Basel

Rhine swimming in Basel

#20 Poznan

Actually, I’ve had quite an overdose of stays in Poland in the last few years, because I’m there all the time for work reasons. But that also means that a considerable number of tips have piled up that I still absolutely have to share with you here on the blog – from the best St. Martin’s croissants to a real jungle, I still have quite a few in store for Poznan. And if you’re looking for a nice and easily accessible destination for a short trip that won’t blow a huge hole in your travel budget, Poznan is just perfect!

Beautiful facades: The market square in the old town of Poznan

Advertising / *affiliate link

#21 Torino

Omg, I just miss overnights in northern Italy! In the meantime, I have given up hope of ever returning to Milan, Bologna or even Torino on duty. Whether for a casual cappuccino or tango dancing under arcades, I’ll definitely have to return!

You can find more travel tips for Bella Italia here

#22 Reus

Reus was one of my new discoveries in Spain last year, along with Tarragona! Only a hundred kilometers from Barcelona, it is perfectly accessible by train for a day trip from there! Find out what you can experience there in my travel guide for Reus!

Tip: A trip to Catalonia is well worthwhile. Here you can find my Catalonia insider tips!

Casa Navas in Reus is so beautiful – an absolute discovery!

#23 Berlin

Opinions differ about my current hometown, which I constantly quarrel with, but which is also simply unique in many ways. Berlin is loud, chaotic and dirty – but you shouldn’t let such trivialities stop you!

Besides, there’s so much to see in Berlin, there’s a pretty good chance there’s still plenty to discover. When I talk to people who didn’t like the city so much, I often realize that they were just exploring the wrong corners. To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, I’ve resolved to share more tips for Berlin here on the blog this year!

For example, like this one: Breakfast at the Reichstag

➜ Book your table on the roof terrace of the Reichstag here*

02/01/2023
An Evening at the Semperoper in Dresden

I was in Dresden recently. And then I remembered that I’d always wanted to see the Semperoper Dresden from the inside instead of just from the outside – I’ve been to Dresden several times, both professionally and privately, but I’ve only ever walked past the Semperoper. Not that I’m normally a big opera-goer. Somehow it’s one of those things you have to get from home – but nobody in my family was really interested in opera. It wasn’t bad either. Going to the opera was only for high earners.

Semperoper Dresden with King Johann monument on Theaterplatz

Semperoper Dresden: Best seats for little money

Actually nonsense. Opera is for everyone. Even for little money. And it doesn’t have to be a fine tux or the most beautiful evening gown. It also makes you look a little prettier – you always have something black in your wardrobe. Then you need a bit of luck: At the Semperoper Dresden, tickets are available at the box office for every (even sold-out!) performance. For the cheap seats. In the truest sense of the word. 22 euros, in the top right corner – and with a bit of stretching, they were really good seats. I only roughly knew the story of Carmen, but it didn’t matter, it was still impressively beautiful. The stage design, the music, the costumes, the singing. I was fascinated. Classical music doesn’t have to be boring.

Ranks and seats in the Semperoper Dresden

You can find even more ideas for travel destinations within Germany here

Guided tour of the Semperoper Dresden

Not to mention the surroundings: The Semperoper is one of the most striking buildings in Dresden. And the colonnades inside are gorgeous! The ceilings are completely painted in filigree and it is hard to imagine how long it must have taken to create the decorations.

If you want to explore the Semperoper even better, you can take part in a guided tour before the performance – but then it will be tight if you want to get one of the cheap seats at the box office. But you can also visit the Semperoper without the opera; there are also guided tours during the day. It’s really worth seeing the inside of the Semperoper!

➜ Book your guided tour of the Semperoper here

Spend the night in Dresden

It wasn’t far from our hotel on the Altmarkt to the Semperoper, which I can highly recommend: It couldn’t be more central. Otherwise, there are always good offers on sites like booking.com – if there are no major events like the Dresden Striezelmarkt before Christmas.

➜ Find cheap hotels in Dresden* here

Budget tip for Dresden

Save money & benefit from many advantages with the Dresden City Card*! With the City Card you get a number of discounts at museums, exhibitions & for tours. And the best thing is: you can travel free on all public transport and explore the whole of Dresden to your heart’s content! For 1 to 3 days.

➜ Buy Dresden City Card online*

15/11/2018

This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.