Dresden, Germany: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Dresden, Germany? If you're planning to go to Dresden, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Dresden, Germany

Based on the climate and weather in Dresden, Germany, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Dresden, Germany

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dresden, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Dresden, Germany by month

January

January in Dresden is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Dresden is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

Traveling to Dresden in March, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you visit Dresden during April, you are likely to notice that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Dresden during May, you may see that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

Traveling to Dresden in July, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Dresden during August, you will probably notice that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September for Dresden is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Dresden is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you vacation in Dresden during November, you will probably notice that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Dresden is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Germany has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dresden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Yenidze, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; you should check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues often have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you will want to choose similar clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to Großer Garten, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Dresden, Germany

Dresden, the capital of the eastern German state of Saxony, is a city steeped in history, culture and architectural marvels. The city has been rebuilt after the devastating bombing in World War II and now boasts of its majestic glaciers, charming neighborhoods, and historical monuments. Here are the top tourist attractions in Dresden that visitors cannot miss.

1. Zwinger Palace

Zwinger Palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and one of Germany's most important buildings. Originally designed for royal festivities and court celebrations, the palace now houses several museums and pieces of artwork, including the famous "Sistine Madonna" by Raphael.

2. Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche is a magnificent church that was destroyed during the bombing of Dresden but was later reconstructed using original materials. Visiting the church offers an opportunity to not only appreciate the architecture and artistic design but also learn about the history and significance of the church.

3. Dresden Castle

Dresden Castle is a unique combination of different architectural styles, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicism. The castle now houses several museums, including the Dresden State Art Collections Museum, where visitors can see some of the best art collections in Germany.

4. The Green Vault

The Green Vault is a historical museum that features an astounding collection of art, jewelry, porcelain, and precious stones from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Admiring the objects here is like traveling through time to an era of elegance, beauty, and ingenuity.

5. Dresden Panometer

Dresden Panometer is a unique way to experience Dresden's history and culture on a more personal level. The 360-degree panoramic view of Dresden's cityscape, as well as different themes that come and go, highlights the city's past and presents its progress.

6. The Semper Opera House

The Semper Opera House is one of Europe's most renowned opera houses, known for its stunning architecture, acoustics, and magnificent performances. The opera house is also very rich in history, which visitors can learn about during a guided tour.

7. The Elbe River

The Elbe River winds through Dresden and offers stunning scenic views of the city full of history and beauty. Visitors can take river cruises through the region, enjoy a picnic or a walk along the banks and admire the various sculptures, buildings and bridges that line the river.

Whether it's for the rich history, vibrant culture or stunning architecture, Dresden is a city that offers something for everyone. These top tourist attractions are only a starting given the numerous places and things to explore in Dresden, and visitors should take time to explore all that the city has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Old Saybrook, Connecticut, United States of America, Fishguard, Wales, United Kingdom, Des Plaines, Illinois, United States of America, Jingmen, China, Stara Lubovna, Slovakia, Northeast, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Saharan Chad, Chad, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Russia, DuBois, Pennsylvania, United States of America, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Lhuentse, Bhutan.