Dresden tours

Things to do in Dresden

Dresden tells stories of resilience with its Baroque architecture and verdant gardens beside the Elbe River. This city is a harmonious blend of elegance and history. Your local guide makes Dresden tours a key to its soul. On a private tour, you might wander through the opulent Zwinger Palace or the frescoed Fürstenzug. As you walk the cobblestones of the Altstadt, the past feels present. A food and wine tour offers Saxon specialties and crisp whites that capture the region's flavour. By skipping the lines, you dive straight into Dresden’s rich tapestry, where every stone shares a tale. Here, the city’s rebirth is evident, and each visit feels both familiar and new. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Dresden. Explore Dresden your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Dresden tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Dresden for every interest, including: - History tours: Stand by the rebuilt Frauenkirche and see how the darker stones mark the originals, then follow your guide to the Procession of Princes mural on Augustusstrasse to unpack Saxon royal stories. Add the Royal Palace’s Green Vault to your tour for a close look at glittering court treasures and the city’s dramatic wartime and GDR chapters. - City highlights tours: See the Zwinger’s grand courtyards, the Semperoper, and Brühl’s Terrace in one smooth route, with time for a view from the Frauenkirche dome. Many tours also include a paddle-steamer cruise on the Elbe to Pillnitz Palace for gardens and river views. - Architecture tours: Compare Baroque showpieces like the Zwinger and Neumarkt reconstructions with bold modern sites such as the Military History Museum’s Libeskind wedge, the New Synagogue, and the mosque-like Yenidze factory. Your guide can tailor tours to include Hellerau’s garden-city planning or striking GDR-era buildings. The Old Town is very walkable and the tram network makes getting between sights easy; if you prefer door-to-door comfort, you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide to include private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Dresden inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Dresden on a private walking tour and uncover its captivating neighborhoods with a local guide. There's no better way to know a neighborhood than with a local by your side. - Altstadt: Immerse yourself in the historic heart of Dresden, where the stunning Frauenkirche and the Zwinger Palace await. Ideal for cultural tourists, this area is rich in history and architectural beauty. - Neustadt: This vibrant and youthful neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Discover eclectic bars, street art, and diverse dining options that cater to all tastes. - Loschwitz: Nestled along the Elbe River, Loschwitz is great for families and those who appreciate scenic views. The Blue Wonder bridge and charming hillside vineyards make for a picturesque visit. - Blasewitz: Known for its elegant villas and tranquil parks, Blasewitz appeals to those seeking a peaceful retreat. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river or relax in one of the neighborhood’s beautiful gardens. Day trip ideas from Dresden After soaking up the art and river views in Dresden, use the city as a launch pad for easy day trips to sandstone cliffs, hilltop forts, and wine towns, timed the way you like with your tour. - Saxon Switzerland and the Bastei: Walk across the Bastei Bridge and look out over the Elbe and wind-carved towers, then pick a short trail or a longer hike through the national park; great if you want fresh air, big views, and photos without a long drive. - Meißen: Wander cobbled lanes, see how fine porcelain is made, and climb to Albrechtsburg for a view over the red roofs and vineyards, which fits if you enjoy craft, design, and a relaxed glass of Saxon wine. - Königstein Fortress: Explore one of Europe’s largest hilltop forts with open ramparts, deep wells, and military history, and get long views across the Elbe Sandstone Mountains that appeal to history fans and kids who like big walls and tunnels. - Moritzburg Castle and the lakes: Circle the moated palace, stroll the woods and ponds, and pair it with nearby Radebeul for small wineries and half-timber streets, a simple mix of architecture, nature, and local flavour for a laid-back day. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Dresden most travellers miss.