Things to Do in Dresden and Beyond

Perfect for travellers who want to explore Dresden’s surroundings without hassle.

Dresden is a city of striking contrasts - baroque palaces, world-class museums, riverside promenades and a vibrant cultural scene. But some of the most breathtaking experiences lie just beyond the city limits, where sandstone cliffs and deep forest canyons reveal a dramatic nature world unlike anywhere else in Europe.

In this guide you'll find not only the best things to do in Dresden - but also the most unforgettable things to do and see beyond it, including the top day trips travellers consider the highlight of their visit.

Top things to do in Dresden’s Historic Center

Discover places to visit near Dresden

Cultural Experiences & Nightlife in Dresden

Where to Eat: Dresden’s Best Restaurants

Dresden Christmas Market: A Winter Wonderland

Planning Your Trip to Dresden

Top Things to Do in Dresden (Before You Head Out of the City)

Start your journey in Dresden’s historic centre before venturing into one of Europe’s most remarkable natural regions.

Wander through the Zwinger Palace, take in the ornate beauty of the Frauenkirche, stroll the Brühl’s Terrace and dive into the collections of the Old Masters Gallery. The city is rich in history and culture - but the adventure doesn’t end there.

Because just a short drive away lies a world of towering sandstone formations, hidden gorges, forest trails and panoramic viewpoints.

Why take a day trip from Dresden?

Just beyond the city lies one of Europe’s most cinematic landscapes — the sandstone worlds of Saxon and Bohemian Switzerland.

Our day trips bring you to the region’s most iconic viewpoints without the hassle of buses, navigation, or crowded routes. With local guides, comfortable transport, and carefully selected stops, it’s the easiest way to swap the city for wilderness.

Comfortable transport from Dresden
Expert local guides
Iconic viewpoints & quiet forest paths
Perfect for all seasons — winter included

Sandstone gorges in Bohemian Switzerland

Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland Day Trip

Our signature dresden day tour combines three of the region’s greatest natural landmarks into a seamless full-day adventure.

You’ll discover world-famous viewpoints, cross scenic forest trails, and immerse yourself in the sandstone world that makes this region unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Bastei Bridge — iconic canyon views
Pravčická Gate — Europe’s largest sandstone arch
Tisa Rocks — mysterious sandstone labyrinth

View Full Itinerary

Bastei Bridge (Saxon Switzerland) viewpoint

Easy Top3 Tour - Nature’s Highlights at a Relaxed Pace

A lighter, easy-going nature tour featuring three unforgettable moments - perfect for families, casual walkers, and photography lovers.

Bastei Bridge - effortless access, breathtaking views
Kamenice Gorge Boat Ride - peaceful canyon journey
Tisa Rocks - playful sandstone labyrinth

Discover the Easy Top3

Winter Edition - Snow-Dusted & Magical

In winter, the sandstone world transforms into a peaceful, frosted landscape. Because days are shorter, our winter itinerary focuses on two must-see locations:

Bastei Bridge — misty cliffs and quiet viewpoints
Tisa Rocks — a fairytale labyrinth under winter light

You can book the Winter Edition on the same page as the standard tour.

Book Winter Edition

Dresden → Prague Sightseeing Transfer

Turn your travel day into a scenic experience with two beautiful stops along the way.

Want even more? Add a visit to Königstein Fortress - one of Europe’s largest hilltop fortresses.

Explore Transfer Tour

Dresden to Prague scenic route with stop on Königstein

Private Tours & Custom Combinations

For travellers seeking a more personal and flexible experience, Saxon Tours offers private tours and tailor-made itineraries across Saxon and Bohemian Switzerland.

Whether you're a couple, a family or a photography enthusiast, private tours allow you to discover iconic viewpoints and hidden forest trails at your own pace. Choose our popular Saxon Switzerland Cultural Delights tour — or let us design a fully bespoke route for you.