Things to do in Saxony

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Visit Saxony

Bad Schandau showing a small town or village and farmland

Saxony must see attractions

1. Leipzig Zoo

Roam between the varied microclimates of Leipzig Zoo’s enclosures and see regal giraffes, curious tapirs and mighty gorillas. The diverse menagerie exists in the lively university city of Leipzig, yet it feels like entering a wilderness far away from urban life. Step into a microcosm of the world at this popular and informative zoo.

Learn more

Leipzig Zoo featuring a bridge and interior views as well as a small group of people

2. Saxon Switzerland National Park

Immense forests sweep across the scenic rocky terrain of the Saxon Switzerland National Park (Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz). With its highest peak reaching around 1,824 feet (556 meters) above sea level, the picturesque reserve contains a breathtaking landscape of mountains and canyons. Trek through undulating meadows to encounter quaint villages, fields, sandstone mountains and the Elbe River.

Learn more

Saxon Switzerland National Park showing building ruins as well as a large group of people

3. Semper Opera House

Nearly two centuries of tumultuous history awaits at Dresden’s stunning opera house. The Semper Opera House is a palatial building perched on the banks of the Elbe River and is home to the Saxon State Orchestra and the Semperoper ballet. Admire its diverse architecture, which comprises elements of a number of periods. Book tickets to take in a musical event inside.

Learn more

Semper Opera House showing heritage elements and a statue or sculpture

4. Church of Our Lady

Despite dating back to the 18th century, Dresden’s iconic church remained a pile of rubble for half a century following the 1945 bombing of Dresden. Today, following a long reconstructive period, the Church of Our Lady has been returned to its original state, and is considered one of the most important examples of Protestant sacred architecture in the region. Climb its arched dome or take in a concert within its cavernous nave.

Learn more

Church of Our Lady which includes religious elements, interior views and a church or cathedral

5. Zwinger Palace

Among Dresden’s most recognizable buildings is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The Zwinger Palace dominates the northwestern boundary of Dresden’s Old Town, close to the Royal Palace and the opera house. Visit the Zwinger Palace to stroll through its decadent gardens and courtyards, to see a large collection of art and artifacts and to admire the opulent interior of the palace.

Learn more

6. Koenigstein Fortress

Koenigstein Fortress is an impressive 13th-century fortress in Saxon Switzerland, Germany. Used as a state prison for centuries, the fortress is now one of Saxony’s most popular tourist attractions. Take a guided tour to view the gatehouse, the well house, the parade ground and other spots.

Learn more

Koenigstein Fortress which includes a castle

Discover the most popular places to visit in Saxony

Leipzig Zoo

4.5/5(8 reviews)

Meet some of the planet’s most fascinating creatures, from monkeys to big cats, in this expansive city-center zoo.

Red Bull Arena

3.5/5(5 reviews)

Catch an event at Red Bull Arena during your trip to Leipzig. Experience the area's museums and theater scene.

Saxon Switzerland National Park

Hike, cycle or rock climb around the craggy sandstone formations, leafy canyons and forested peaks of this expansive national park in Saxony.

Semper Opera House

4.5/5(76 reviews)

Saxony’s state opera house is resplendent with three styles of architecture. Take in a ballet or opera performance in its opulent theater.

Church of Our Lady

4.5/5(91 reviews)

Listen to a vocal ensemble, climb to the viewing platform at the top of the dome and learn about the church’s long reconstruction at Dresden’s major Lutheran place of worship.

Zwinger Palace

4.5/5(87 reviews)

Wander through sprawling gardens, explore decadent courtyards and see important collections of art at this Baroque masterpiece.

Koenigstein Fortress

4.5/5(21 reviews)

Investigate the hidden corners of one of the largest hilltop fortresses in Europe and study educational displays to learn about this imposing structure.

Cospudener Lake

5/5(1 review)

Roam through woods and find a scenic man-made lake popular with locals seeking respite from the urban bustle of the city center.

Dresden Castle

4.5/5(84 reviews)

A former Royal Palace located in the historic heart of Dresden is today a major cultural attraction and home to some of Germany’s oldest art collections.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Saxony

Heidelberg Castle which includes heritage architecture and landscape views

Altstadt Dresden

5/5(185 area reviews)

On the south side of the Elbe River is Dresden’s historic center, which features art galleries, grandiose churches, picturesque gardens and shopping districts.

St. Nicholas Church which includes a church or cathedral and interior views

Zentrum

4.5/5(72 area reviews)

Consider a visit to St. Nicholas Church and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Zentrum. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Leipzig Markt S-Bahn or Augustusplatz Tram Stop.

Zentrum showing modern architecture and a church or cathedral

Mitte

Museums, historic sites, and theaters highlight some notable features of Mitte. Make a stop by Leipzig's Old Town Hall or Leipzig Market Square while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Leipzig Markt S-Bahn or Augustusplatz Tram Stop to get around town.

Neustadt

Go on a walking tour around Dresden’s preserved 18th-century quarter, which offers an insight into how the city appeared before its 1940s bombardment.

Innere Altstadt

If you're spending time in Innere Altstadt, check out sights like Altmarkt or Old Market Square and hop on the metro to see more the city at Altmarkt Station or Postplatz Station.