Dresden hotels

Perched on the River Elbe in Saxony, East Germany, the Baroque city of Dresden is not far from the border of the Czech Republic. Founded in 1206, Dresden was once the royal residence of great Saxony kings and is known as the Florence of the North thanks to its skyline of Baroque spires, elegant domes and grand Renaissance-era palaces.

Although Allied bombing in 1945 devastated much of Dresden, it has been almost entirely rebuilt and is now one of the most beautiful cities in Germany.

Highlights of a Visit to Dresden

Head to Altstadt, Dresden’s historic old town, a charming quarter lined with beautiful Baroque and Renaissance buildings. It’s home to Dresden’s main visitor sights, including the 18th-century Zwinger Palace, the glorious Semper Opera House and the city’s landmark 18th-century Frauenkirche, an opulent church crowned with a sparkling gold cupola.

Find a Wide Range of Hotels in Dresden

There is a wide variety of accommodation available in Dresden, from modern business hotels, upmarket apartments and stylish chain hotels in historic buildings, as well as some hip boutique budget hotels.

Head south of the river to Altstadt, where you'll find several large branded hotels around Neumarkt and Taschenberg, as well as a selection of affordable and mid-range chain hotels within easy reach of Dresden’s main attractions.

For something more stylish or at the budget end of the scale, venture across the Augustus Bridge to Neustadt for a mix of modern and traditional hotels, all offering a warm Dresden welcome.

Stay near Dresden’s Main Attractions

Dresden is a city of two halves, the historic Altstadt in the south and on the north bank of the river, Neustadt, the new town which was built in the 18th century. Neustadt is renowned across Germany for its lively bar scene centred around Albertplatz, as well its popular shopping quarter and street markets on Metzer Strasse.

While Dresden is a sprawling city, the historic centre is compact enough to explore easily over a long weekend. Take time to see the Museum Festung Dresden, the 17th-century fortress-turned-history museum and birthplace of European porcelain. Or spend an hour admiring one of the finest art collections in Europe in the Old Masters Picture Gallery.

For the best views of Dresden, take a stroll along Brühl's Terrace, also called the Balcony of Europe, an elegant stone promenade on the southern banks of the River Elbe.

Where to Eat in Dresden

After a day of exploring Dresden’s historic attractions, make sure you explore the old town at night and sample traditional Saxon cuisine. There are plenty of historic restaurants and old brew houses around Altstadt. Try authentic mushroom goulash, cheese spaetzle noodles or the popular German staple – bratwurst and sauerkraut.

Use Expedia to search through the extensive range of accommodation in Dresden, from budget hotels to upmarket apartments in historic buildings.

Still in need of more inspiration? Check out our hotels in Praque.