Dresden Christmas Market from Prague: How to Do It in One Day
Dresden's Christmas markets are among the oldest in Germany and only two hours from Prague. How to fit them into one comfortable day, including a visit to the Bastei Bridge.
At Advent Dresden is one of the prettiest cities in central Europe, and it is only about two hours from Prague. The Christmas (Xmas) markets run all day, so a visit fits easily into a single day trip. Here is when the markets open and how to enjoy them without rushing.
When do the Dresden Christmas markets open?
The markets usually start in the last week of November. The main Striezelmarkt on Altmarkt dates back to the 15th century and ends just before Christmas, while several smaller markets, such as the Augustusmarkt on Hauptstraße and the market on the Neumarkt by the Frauenkirche, run until just after New Year. They are open from morning into the evening, so you can come at any time of day. Exact dates and hours change every year, so check with the organisers before you travel.
The evening when Dresden lights up
The most beautiful moment comes in the early evening. When it starts to get dark around four o'clock, Dresden lights up with thousands of little lights, the scent of mulled wine and roasted almonds drifts over the stalls, and the Baroque facades around the Frauenkirche look like a fairy-tale backdrop. Even if you only spend an hour there at dusk, it is the one you will remember.
What your day looks like
Our all-inclusive private tour starts at the Bastei Bridge, one of the finest viewpoints in Saxon Switzerland. From there we go on to lunch in a typical German brewery restaurant: roast pork knuckle, sausages and beer, the way winter should taste. On arrival in Dresden we take a short tour of the centre with the Zwinger Palace, the Semperoper, the Frauenkirche and Brühl's Terrace, and then it is time for the markets. With your own vehicle and guide, the pace is yours.
Continuing on to Dresden?
If your trip from Prague continues on to Dresden and you are not returning, use the one-way Prague–Dresden sightseeing transfer. You stop at the Bastei Bridge, keep your luggage with you all the way and are dropped right at your hotel in Dresden.
What to taste and what to look for
Try the traditional Dresdner Stollen, which the Striezelmarkt is named after, and the typical Pflaumentoffel figures made of dried plums. Mulled wine is usually served in a returnable mug with a deposit, so you can keep it as a souvenir. The centre is busiest at weekends and calmer on weekdays. Bring warm clothes and euros in cash, as not every stall takes cards. For more to see in the city, read our guide to things to do and see in Dresden.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Dresden Christmas markets open?+
Usually in the last week of November. The main market ends just before Christmas, while several smaller ones run until just after New Year. Check the exact dates with the organisers before you travel.
Can you visit the Dresden Christmas market from Prague in one day?+
Yes. The drive takes about two hours each way. The most comfortable way is a private tour that lets you spend the rest of the day in Dresden.
How long can we stay in Dresden?+
Because it is a private tour, we agree the departure time with you. If you want to stay until the early evening and see the markets lit up, you will be back in Prague that same evening.
Can we stop at the Bastei Bridge on the way?+
Yes, the Bastei Bridge is right on the route and is especially beautiful in winter.
Your private Christmas market day
Private vehicle and guide from your Prague hotel, the Bastei Bridge on the way, then the rest of the day in Dresden.