more than just porcelain

Insider tips for Meissen & the surrounding area

Stadtbild von Dresden, Deutschland, mit Gebäuden am Wasser, Booten auf der Elbe und der Frauenkirche.

Discover diversity

Sightseeing features

Meissen captivates with its history, culinary delights – and special places off the beaten track. Whether charming old town alleyways, impressive Meissen sights, or excursions along the Saxon Wine Route: Discover our personal insider tips and experience Meissen and its surroundings at their finest.

Enjoy tradition and charm on your holiday

Sightseeing in Meissen

Winding alleyways, charming townhouses, and the impressive castle hill characterize the cityscape of Meissen – the cradle of Saxony. Strolling through the historic old town, you'll experience medieval flair and stylish charm. The 1,000-year-old city of Meissen is world-renowned for its porcelain, but well-known sights such as Albrechtsburg Castle, the cathedral, and its hidden corners are also among the special discoveries to be made.

Our insider tips for Meissen show you what you shouldn't miss off the beaten track.

  • Albrechtsburg

    Since 1471, the castle has dominated the cityscape. Albrechtsburg Castle is the oldest castle in Germany and is now a museum. Immerse yourself in the history of this imposing castle complex, built to showcase power and wealth, during a guided tour.

    More about Albrechtsburg
  • Meissen House Experience World

    The Meissen State Porcelain Manufactory offers insights into the world of porcelain production in its demonstration workshops and museum. Founded in 1710, the manufactory is the oldest in Europe and has made Meissen world-famous.

    To the Meissen House Experience World
  • Wine Experience World

    Take part in a fascinating cellar tour at the former Electoral Winery. This isn't just a cooperative and cellar; it's a place where you can experience the wines of WINZER MEISSEN firsthand. The winery's wine shop is stocked with the complete range for tasting and purchase.

    Visit the wine experience world
  • Meissen Cathedral

    Another striking building in the city is the over 1,000-year-old cathedral with its famous interior. Construction on Meissen Cathedral has been ongoing for eight centuries. You can experience this architectural diversity up close. Tours are available from 9:00 a.m. from May to October and from 10:00 a.m. from November to April.

    More information about the cathedral
Weinberg mit Blick auf eine europäische Stadt bei Sonnenuntergang, mit einer Burg auf einem Hügel.
Stadtbild von Dresden, Deutschland, mit Gebäuden am Wasser, Booten auf der Elbe und der Frauenkirche.

Holiday in Dresden – in the Saxon Florence

Excursion destinations in Dresden

Art, culture, and rich history: Saxony's capital city presents itself today as a vibrant cultural metropolis with a turbulent past. From the splendor of its baroque Old Town to the impressively reconstructed Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). This once completely destroyed structure is now a symbol of peace and unity. Dresden also impresses with its art treasures and architectural highlights – which is why it is known as the "Florence on the Elbe."

Around Dresden, you'll also find places steeped in tradition, with historical flair and a Mediterranean atmosphere. Our excursion tips will guide you to the most beautiful destinations.

Our insider tips for Dresden:

Enjoy art and culture in the Green Vault in the morning, stroll through the Great Garden at midday, and end the day in style at the Semperoper opera house in the evening. If you still have energy afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant Outer Neustadt district. A holiday in Dresden is worthwhile at any time of year – especially in December, when pyramids, candle arches, and the aroma of Dresden Stollen enchant the city. We've compiled our top excursion destinations in Dresden for you.

  • Frauenkirche

    The domed building on Neumarkt square is the city's landmark and, after its reconstruction, a must-see on your tour of Dresden. Pay attention to the light and dark stones in the facade – original pieces salvaged from the rubble alongside newly placed stones, symbolizing the rebuilding process.

    To the Frauenkirche Dresden
  • Dresden Zwinger

    Built at the beginning of the 18th century, the Dresden Zwinger is today the most important building of the late Baroque period, currently housing the Museum of Old Masters as well as the world's most important specialized ceramic collection.

    To the Dresden Zwinger
  • Residenzschloss

    In the magnificently reconstructed Dresden Castle, you can immerse yourself in the world of Saxon history and art: Visit the Historic and the New Green Vault, the Kupferstich-Kabinett (Cabinet of Prints and Drawings), the Armory with the impressive Turkish Chamber and the Coin Cabinet – a fascinating ensemble under one roof.

    Information about the Residenz Palace
  • Townhouses at Neumarkt

    Around the Frauenkirche, the Neumarkt square is once again as magnificent as it once was. The lovingly reconstructed townhouses tell the story of Dresden's Baroque heyday – with ornate facades, meticulously detailed gables, and historic names like "Zur Glocke" (At the Bell) or "Zum Roten Haus" (At the Red House).

    To the townhouses at Neumarkt
  • Moritzburg near Dresden

    The baroque palace complex served Augustus the Strong in the 18th century as a prestigious hunting lodge and pleasure palace.

    Moritzburg Castle near Dresden
  • Semperoper

    The Semperoper is one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe. With its impressive architecture and top-class program, it is a must-see for everyone who loves art, culture and grand moments.

(Wine) enjoyment as you please

Hot spot: Saxon Wine Route

The Saxon Wine Route leads through the most beautiful sections of the Elbe Valley – sun-drenched, gentle, and full of delight. Between Pirna and Diesbar-Seußlitz, one picturesque wine village follows another, accompanied by the course of the Elbe River and the Elbe Cycle Path.

Just a few steps downriver from the Hotel Goldenes Fass begins one of the most charming sections: delightful towns, historic cities and picture-perfect villages.

Weinberg mit Blick auf eine europäische Stadt bei Sonnenuntergang, mit einer Burg auf einem Hügel.

55 km of pure experience

Hike through rolling vineyards or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Elbe River – always accompanied by the unique charm of the historic Elbe Valley. Along the way, traditional wine taverns, rustic wine bars, and family-run wineries invite you to take a relaxing break. After all, nowhere does wine taste better than where it's grown. A true insider tip for your holiday in Meissen and the surrounding area: a boat trip on a historic paddle steamer to the idyllic Elbe villages of Diesbar and Seußlitz – including magnificent views of the vineyards from the water.

The towns along the Saxon Wine Route:

Schwarzer Kreis mit weißem Häkchen.

Pirna

Schwarzer Kreis mit einem weißen Häkchen.

Dresden

Schwarzer Kreis mit einem weißen Häkchen.

Radebeul

Schwarzer Kreis mit weißem Häkchen.

Weinböhla

Schwarzer Kreis mit einem weißen Häkchen.

Niederau

Häkchensymbol in einem schwarzen Kreis.

Coswig

Schwarzer Kreis mit weißem Häkchen.

Meissen

Schwarzer Kreis mit einem weißen Häkchen darin.

Diera-Zehren

Schwarzer Kreis mit einem weißen Häkchen darin.

Diesbar-Seußlitz

Beleuchtetes Schloss auf einem schneebedeckten Hügel, gespiegelt im ruhigen Wasser unter einem purpur-orangefarbenen Dämmerungshimmel.

A dream destination for a short trip

Fairytale Meissen in Saxony's Castle Country

Experience a short break in Meissen that uniquely combines history, culinary delights, and relaxation. This city in Saxony's castle region captivates visitors with its picturesque old town and numerous attractions, nestled in the gentle landscape of the Elbe Valley. Indulge yourself in our charming wellness hotel – with culinary highlights, rejuvenating spa treatments, and warm hospitality. Our carefully curated short break packages make your decision easy.

Majestic Albrechtsburg

Albrechtsburg Castle in Meissen is considered the oldest castle complex in Germany and one of Saxony's most important buildings. Perched high above the Elbe River, it tells the story of the Saxon ruling dynasty and impresses with its late Gothic architecture. The majestic complex offers fascinating insights into a glorious past – a place that brings history to life and inspires visitors far beyond the region.

The fairytale world of Moritzburg Castle

Let Moritzburg Castle transport you to a fairytale world. Once a hunting lodge and pleasure palace of the Saxon Electors, today it stands as an impressive testament to Baroque lifestyle. Picturesquely situated in the middle of a pond, the castle is also wonderfully accessible and easily explored by bicycle – just 16 km through the Elbe Valley forests separate it from the hotel. The perfect combination: a relaxing bike ride, a light lunch overlooking the castle pond, and a stroll through a setting made famous by the classic film "Three Wishes for Cinderella." An excursion that uniquely blends culture and nature.

Experience cultural diversity and exciting events!

The squares and alleyways of Meissen's old town provide the perfect backdrop for atmospheric events throughout the year. Whether traditional festivals, culinary markets, or cultural highlights – there's always something going on in Meissen and the surrounding area. Discover not only the classics but also true hidden gems that will make your stay even more unforgettable.

Meissen Pub Night

Rock, blues, old classics and current party sounds - there's something for every musical taste here!


Meissen Art Festival

From May 10th to 11th, 2025: Experience beauty and discover diversity. Under the patronage of the Mayor of Meissen, the 19th Meissen-Cölln Arts Festival will take place. Galleries, exhibitions, and performances by amateur and professional artists will once again invite visitors of all ages to participate.


Vineyards at sunset

4th Meissen Cultural Summer

From June 13 to August 31, 2025: Get out of the house and into nature and the blue! Along the Elbe River, in meadows and vineyards, in alleyways, squares, and hidden corners, art and culture await you in all its facets. Performances, music, readings, workshops, film screenings, exhibitions – the summer of culture invites you to wonderful, diverse encounters!


Meissen Literature Festival

From June 13th to 15th, 2025: Germany's largest free open-air reading festival invites visitors to Meissen with over 200 readings, theatrical performances, city tours, and musical-literary events. Readings will take place in squares and streets, courtyards, historic buildings, churches, medieval vaulted cellars, and castles. In addition to authors, presenters, actors, and politicians, many private individuals will also read from their favorite books.


Open Winery Day

From August 30th to 31st, 2025: The popular "Open Winery Days" in Saxony take place annually on the last weekend of August. Besides the wine itself, there's plenty of information about the work in the vineyard and the cellar. Many steps are necessary before the grape juice sparkles in the glass. See for yourself on guided tours through the hillside and steep slopes why Saxon wine deserves its price. Add to that the rarity of this fine wine, which is usually only available here. Connoisseurs already know that it tastes excellent – and newcomers will discover this for themselves this weekend.


Meissen Wine Festival

From September 19th to 21st, 2025: On the penultimate weekend of September, Saxony's largest wine festival opens its gates. The winemakers of the Elbe region present their finest wines around the Meissen market square. A vibrant program of events takes place on the festival grounds. Blues, rock, folk, brass band music, classical, jazz, and much, much more transform the wine festival into a party zone with something for everyone. On the festival grounds by the Elbe River, fairground operators showcase their latest attractions.


Meissen Christmas

From November 24th to December 24th, 2025: The historic market square, with its late Gothic town hall, Renaissance townhouses, and the Church of Our Lady, provides an atmospheric backdrop for the Christmas market during Advent. Vendors offer their Christmas wares from decorated stalls. Wood carvings, Christmas decorations, candles, and much more entice shoppers. During the Christmas season, the town hall transforms into a giant Advent calendar, concealing 24 festive surprises behind large blue shutters.