Dresden Castle: A Royal Residence Through the Ages
Explore Dresden Castle, a royal residence showcasing centuries of art, treasures, and Saxon history, meticulously restored after WWII, in the heart of Dresden's Old Town.
Dresden Castle, also known as the Residenzschloss, is a captivating landmark in the heart of Dresden, Germany. With origins tracing back to the 13th century, it served as the residence for Saxon electors and kings for nearly four centuries. The castle's architecture showcases a blend of styles, from Romanesque to Baroque and Neo-Renaissance, reflecting its evolving history. Severely damaged during World War II, the castle has been meticulously restored, now housing five remarkable museums, including the Green Vault, renowned for its exquisite treasures, the Numismatic Cabinet, and the Collection of Prints, Drawings and Photographs. Visitors can also ascend the Hausmann Tower for panoramic city views, making it a must-see destination for history and art enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Dresden Castle
- Taschenberg 2, Dresden, Altstadt, 01067, DE
- +4935149142000
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance, especially for the Historic Green Vault, to secure your entry and avoid potential queues.
- Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
- Consider purchasing a combination ticket for multiple museums within the castle complex to save money and explore more of its treasures.
- Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages to enhance your understanding of the castle's history and collections.
- Climb the Hausmann Tower for panoramic views of Dresden's Old Town; it's open seasonally and offers a unique perspective of the city.
Getting There
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Walking
From Theaterplatz, with the Semperoper opera house behind you, walk towards the castle, passing the Katholische Hofkirche (Dresden Cathedral) on your right. Enter the castle grounds through the main gate facing Theaterplatz. The entrance to the museums is located within the inner courtyard. This is a short walk of approximately 5 minutes.
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Public Transport
Take tram lines 4, 8, 9, or 11 to the 'Theaterplatz' or 'Postplatz' stop. From either stop, the castle is a short walk of about 5 minutes. Follow signs towards the Residenzschloss. A single ride ticket within Dresden costs approximately €2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Dresden Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Dresden Castle will take approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8 and €12. Ask the driver to drop you off at Taschenberg 2, near the castle entrance.
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Parking
Parking near Dresden Castle is limited. The underground parking garage 'Semperoper' is located nearby, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly. Hourly rates typically range from €3 to €5, with a daily maximum of around €25. Consider alternative parking options further from the city center and use public transport for the final leg of your journey.
Discover more about Dresden Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue des Hl. Dominikus
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Discover the Statue of St. Dominic in Dresden's Stallhof, a serene monument amidst Renaissance splendor, offering a glimpse into the city's rich religious and artistic heritage and historical charm.
Denkmal "Friedrich August dem Gerechten"
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Discover the grandeur of the Friedrich August Monument, an iconic symbol of Dresden's rich history and culture nestled in the heart of Altstadt.
Statue of King Johann
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A majestic equestrian statue honoring King Johann, a symbol of Dresden's rich history and artistic legacy, standing proudly amidst the architectural splendor of Theaterplatz.
Stallhof
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Step back in time at Dresden's Stallhof, a Renaissance courtyard steeped in history, architecture, and culture, offering a unique glimpse into Saxony's royal past and vibrant present.
Schloßpl.
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Experience Dresden's royal legacy at Schloßplatz, a meticulously restored square surrounded by architectural masterpieces and steeped in Saxon history.
Dinglinger-Haus
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Experience the grandeur of Baroque Dresden at the meticulously reconstructed Dinglinger House, a testament to the city's rich history and architectural brilliance, located in the heart of the Neumarkt.
Theaterplatz
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Discover the vibrant Theaterplatz in Dresden, a cultural gem surrounded by stunning architecture and home to the renowned Semper Opera House.
Postplatz
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Discover Postplatz in Dresden: A historic square blending transportation, modern architecture, and access to iconic landmarks like Zwinger Palace and the Frauenkirche.
Martin Luther Statue
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A towering bronze statue in Dresden's Neumarkt, honoring Martin Luther and the Reformation amidst stunning baroque architecture, symbolizing resilience and historical significance.
Altmarkt 1
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Discover Dresden's historic heart at the Altmarkt, a vibrant square hosting the famous Striezelmarkt and surrounded by cultural landmarks, offering a blend of history and modern-day appeal.
Friedrich August II Koenig Von Sachsen
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A regal monument in Dresden's heart, commemorating King Friedrich August II and Saxony's rich history amidst the stunning architecture of the reconstructed Neumarkt.
Großer trauernder Mann
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A poignant bronze sculpture in Dresden, the Großer Trauernder Mann serves as a powerful memorial to the victims of the WWII bombing, inviting reflection on loss and resilience.
Memorial for Ludwig Richter (1898; Victor Eugen Kircheisen)
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Große Meißner Str. 15
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Explore the architectural beauty of Dresden-Neustadt, where history meets modern culture in an unforgettable journey.
Caspar David Friedrich monument
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Discover the artistic legacy of Caspar David Friedrich at this stunning monument in Dresden, a serene tribute amidst the city's rich cultural landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
SKD | Green Vault
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Experience the opulence of the Green Vault, a stunning art museum in Dresden showcasing priceless treasures and rich history.
SKD | Dresden Armory
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Explore the stunning collections at the Dresden Armory, a historical museum showcasing the opulence of Saxony's past through its exquisite weapons and artifacts.
Hausmannsturm
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Experience the breathtaking views from Hausmannsturm, a historical gem in Dresden, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Kathedrale Sanctissimae Trinitatis
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Kathedrale Sanctissimae Trinitatis, a must-visit landmark in Dresden, Germany.
Porzellansammlung
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Explore the exquisite porcelain collection at Porzellansammlung, Dresden's renowned museum showcasing art and craftsmanship from centuries past.
Fürstenzug
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Discover the grandeur of the Fürstenzug, a stunning mural reflecting the rich history of Saxon rulers in the heart of Dresden.
Old Masters Picture Gallery
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Explore the Old Masters Picture Gallery in Dresden, a captivating art museum showcasing masterpieces from renowned European artists in a stunning Baroque setting.
Schlossplatz
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Discover the enchanting Schlossplatz in Dresden, a historical square surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant cultural experiences.
Zwinger
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Discover the Baroque splendor and artistic treasures of the Zwinger, a historical landmark and museum in the heart of Dresden.
Dresden Transport Museum
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Palace of Culture
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Altstadt Dresden
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Semperoper Dresden
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Kronentor
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Nymphenbad Dresden
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Essential places to dine
Paulaner´s im Taschenbergpalais
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Kastenmeiers
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Restaurant Wohnstube
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Restaurant Platzhirsch am Schlosseck
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Sophienkeller im Taschenbergpalais
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Saxon cuisine in an elegant setting at Sophienkeller im Taschenbergpalais in Dresden.
Felix Restaurant
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Alte Meister Café & Restaurant
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Experience exquisite dining at Alte Meister Café & Restaurant in Dresden - where tradition meets contemporary culinary art.
Kahnaletto
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HANS IM GLÜCK - DRESDEN Altmarkt
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Wilma Wunder Dresden
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Ayers Rock
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edelweiss - Alpenrestaurant
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Kutscherschänke - Uriges Wirtshaus
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Experience authentic German cuisine at Kutscherschänke - a rustic restaurant that captures the heart of Dresden's culinary scene.
DRESDEN 1900 Museumsgastronomie
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L'Osteria
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lindt Boutique Dresden
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camel active Store Dresden
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LA DONNA Exklusive Damenmode Dresden
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MUDDASTADT
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Dresden Souvenirs
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Silbermann Fashion GmbH
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Kunsthandwerk in der Altmarkt-Galerie
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Wolford Boutique Dresden
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A. Lange & Söhne Boutique Dresden
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Stefanel
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BOSS Store Dresden
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Flying Tiger
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Glashütte Original Boutique Dresden
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Cavalinho
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Hollister Co.
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Schlossbar
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Bar 1705 - Dresden
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AMARO Bar - Dresden
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Shamrock Irish Bar & Restaurant
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Discover Shamrock Irish Bar & Restaurant - an authentic Irish pub in the heart of Dresden, offering delightful cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
Roof-Top Bar im Vienna house
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Cocktailbar Pervak
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Experience the vibrant and innovative cocktail culture at Cocktailbar Pervak in the heart of Dresden's Altstadt, where every drink tells a story.
Champagner Lounge
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Experience the elegance of Champagner Lounge in Dresden, where a remarkable champagne selection meets a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Gin House Dresden
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Twist Bar
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Pianobar
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The Red Rooster - Dresden
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Volt Bar
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Discover the lively Volt Bar in Dresden, blending exquisite drinks with a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
HERZ american bar - Dresden
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BBC – Bar Brasserie Cassis - Dresden
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BBC Whisky & Gin House
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