Dresden, Germany: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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, I've got 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 can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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 freezing. 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

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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

March in Dresden is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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 vacation in Dresden during April, you may notice that it can be brisk. 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

    Given current world events, Germany has travel 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option 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

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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 notice that it can be chilly. 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 sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel 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.

  • 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 recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

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. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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

Traveling to Dresden in June, 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 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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

If you vacation in Dresden during July, you are likely to 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 regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • 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 prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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 are likely to see that it is balmy. 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 once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel 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 things.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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 in Dresden can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). It tends to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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

If you are traveling to Dresden in October, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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

November in Dresden is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel 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 constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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

If you are traveling to Dresden in December, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany has travel 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 repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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 surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

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

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Dresden tourism authority.

Synagogues may have similar dress requirements. At Neue Synagoge you should wear 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.