Goldener Reiter Dresden
Dresden's iconic gilded statue of King August the Strong, a symbol of Baroque grandeur and a gateway to the city's historic charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Goldener Reiter Dresden
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dresden's iconic gilded statue of King August the Strong, a symbol of Baroque grandeur and a gateway to the city's historic charm.
"A must visit place in Dresden, Germany with a serene environment and amazing views."
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Visit late afternoon for stunning golden light on the statue.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Hauptstraße
Explore the shops and galleries leading from the statue.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Golden Horseman
Neumarkt Square
Majestic gilded statue of King August the Strong on horseback, a symbol of Dresden's grandeur.

Hauptstraße Avenue
Leading from the Goldener Reiter
A vibrant pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Elbe River Promenade
Adjacent to the statue
Enjoy breathtaking views of Dresden's historic skyline and relax by the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Visit late afternoon for stunning golden light on the statue.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Hauptstraße
Explore the shops and galleries leading from the statue.
🍺 Riverside Refreshments
Enjoy a beer with a view, but note it's self-service and can be pricey.
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Summer can be hot and humid; visit early or late.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Visit late afternoon for stunning golden light on the statue.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Hauptstraße
Explore the shops and galleries leading from the statue.
🍺 Riverside Refreshments
Enjoy a beer with a view, but note it's self-service and can be pricey.
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Summer can be hot and humid; visit early or late.
🎄 Christmas Market Charm
December offers a magical experience with the Striezelmarkt.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Goldener Reiter as a beautiful and iconic landmark, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere, especially when combined with a stroll along the Elbe River and the Hauptstraße. While some find riverside refreshments pricey and self-service, the overall experience is highly regarded as a must-see in Dresden.
"Loved the statue-view, the ambience, and the nearby garden. Saw and a street singer singing her heart out in English (English Songs): loved the voice and song selection. Serene environment to sit on benches and shop on nearby shops. A must visit place in Dresden, Germany"
nikhil raj
"Beautiful place on the banks of the river Elbe to have a (for German standards rather expensive) beer with an amazing view on the historic city.
The restrooms behind the bar are public and charge you 0.5 EUR extra to use them! Also, for the price you would expect table service but it's self service. The seating is shaded and it's less crowded then the beer garden on the other side of the bridge."
Peter Zentjens
"Golden statue of His Majesty the King August der Starke (August the Strong) and marks the beginning of the Hauptstraße, an avenue with beautiful plane trees, restaurants, shops and art galleries."
Till Seehars
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Goldener Reiter is centrally located in Dresden, easily accessible by public transport. Tram lines 3, 7, 8, and 9 stop near the Neumarkt square, which is just a short walk away. Many visitors also arrive on foot when exploring the historic city center.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transportation or park in a designated parking garage slightly further out and walk.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 20-30 minutes from the main train station through the city center. Alternatively, you can take a tram directly to the Neumarkt stop.
The area around the Goldener Reiter is generally flat and accessible. The Hauptstraße is a pedestrian zone, and the Elbe promenade is paved, making it easy to navigate.
Walking is the best way to experience Dresden's historic center. Many key attractions, including the Goldener Reiter, Frauenkirche, and Zwinger, are within close proximity to each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Goldener Reiter is an outdoor monument and is freely accessible to the public at all times.
The statue itself is always visible. The surrounding streets, shops, and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening.
While the Goldener Reiter is free, attractions like the Zwinger Palace or Frauenkirche may have entrance fees for specific exhibitions or towers.
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays generally offers a less crowded experience.
Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring, while December is magical with the Christmas markets.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides beautiful lighting for the gilded statue. Early mornings also offer softer light and fewer people.
Capture the statue from different angles, including with the Elbe River or the historic skyline in the background. The Hauptstraße also offers charming street photography opportunities.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photographing the outdoor monument itself. However, always be mindful of private businesses and any specific rules within nearby museums or churches.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most visitors. For more professional shots, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens would be ideal.
Drone usage is often restricted in city centers and around historical monuments due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local drone laws before flying.
🍽️ 🍺 Food & Dining
Yes, the Hauptstraße and surrounding streets offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops. You can find everything from traditional German cuisine to international options.
Some riverside spots offer beer gardens with views of the Elbe. Be aware that they are often self-service and can be more expensive than other options.
Look for bakeries, smaller cafes, or street food vendors along the Hauptstraße for more affordable meals and snacks.
Many restaurants in Dresden are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for options.
Prices can vary significantly. Casual dining might range from €10-€20 per person, while more upscale restaurants could be €25+. Riverside beer gardens are often around €5-€7 for a beer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by visiting the nearby Puppentheater-Museum (Puppet Theater Museum) or the Zoologischer Garten Dresden (Dresden Zoo), both of which are relatively accessible from the Goldener Reiter area and offer engaging experiences for younger visitors.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Utilize Dresden's excellent public transport system rather than taxis. Consider purchasing a day ticket if you plan on visiting multiple attractions. Many of Dresden's most beautiful sights, including the Frauenkirche and Zwinger, are within walking distance, saving you money on transport.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For a broader perspective, head to Brühl's Terrace for panoramic views of Dresden's Baroque architecture. Early mornings are also ideal for capturing the monument with fewer crowds and softer light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Goldener Reiter
During World War II, Dresden suffered extensive damage, but the Goldener Reiter, though damaged, was eventually restored. Its survival and subsequent restoration are a testament to the city's resilience and commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage. Today, it serves not only as a historical monument but also as a popular meeting point and a starting point for exploring the vibrant Neustadt district.
Many visitors are drawn to the statue's impressive craftsmanship and its prominent location. It's a key element in understanding Dresden's Baroque past and its continuous efforts to rebuild and maintain its historical splendor. The statue's presence is a constant reminder of the city's artistic and architectural achievements.
Exploring the Elbe River and Brühl's Terrace
Adjacent to the river promenade is Brühl's Terrace, often referred to as the 'Balcony of Europe'. This elevated walkway offers breathtaking vistas and is a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a coffee, or simply soak in the atmosphere. During warmer months, you'll often find street performers and artists adding to the vibrant ambiance.
Many visitors recommend enjoying a drink at one of the riverside establishments while taking in the views. While some reviews mention these can be a bit pricey and self-service, the experience of watching the sunset over the Elbe with the city's silhouette as a backdrop is often considered well worth it.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit