Zwinger Palace - a large building next to a body of water
1 / 10

Zwinger Palace

4.7
·53k reviews·Dresden, Germany

A magnificent Baroque palace complex in Dresden, housing world-class art collections and stunning gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Zwinger Palace - a large building next to a body of water

Zwinger Palace

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent Baroque palace complex in Dresden, housing world-class art collections and stunning gardens.

4.7
(53k reviews)

"A wonderful, historical place to visit, amazing architecture and atmosphere!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Zwinger Tickets Online

Save time and skip the lines by purchasing your Zwinger Palace tickets in advance online.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the palace grounds and museums.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Architecture

Baroque Architecture

Courtyards and Pavilions

Marvel at the ornate Baroque design, intricate sculptures, and grand pavilions that define this architectural masterpiece.

Old Masters Picture Gallery

Old Masters Picture Gallery

Semperbau

Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Raphael, this gallery is a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Porcelain Collection

Porcelain Collection

Holländisches Palais

Discover one of the world's most extensive collections of Meissen porcelain, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.

The Courtyards and Gardens

The Courtyards and Gardens

Central Courtyards

Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens and admire the fountains and sculptures, especially enchanting in good weather.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

To avoid long queues, especially during peak season, consider purchasing your Zwinger Palace tickets online. This ensures smoother entry and more time to explore the stunning Baroque architecture and its collections. Reddit

Allocate Ample Time

The Zwinger Palace houses multiple museums and vast grounds. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully appreciate the Old Masters Picture Gallery, Porcelain Collection, and the Mathematical-Physical Salon without feeling rushed. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busier
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Schweriner Schloss, Deutschland Guide 1. Nimm den Zug nach Schwerin. 2. Gehe zu Fuß oder nimm den Bus zum Schweriner Schloss (10-15 Min.). 3. Erkunde das schöne Schloss und seine Gärten. 4. Besuche das Schlossmuseum für Geschichte und Kunst. Entdecke das märchenhafte Schweriner Schloss! 🏰🌿 #SchwerinerSchloss #schwerin #schwerinersee #mecklenburgvorpommern #germany #mvtutgut #schloss #castle #schw...
@travelling.lovebirds
15.5K likes • 461.9K views

🎟️ Book Zwinger Tickets Online

Save time and skip the lines by purchasing your Zwinger Palace tickets in advance online. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the palace grounds and museums. TikTok

Must see places in Dresden: 1. Zwinger 2. Bruhl Terrace 3. Frauenkirche 4. Procession of Princes 5. Dresden Residence Palace 6. Old Masters Picture Gallery 7. Semper Opera And what is your favorite place in Dresden? #traveltiktok #travelude kirche #europetravel #backpackingeurope #visitgermany #travelgermany #germany #dresden #dresdengermany #dresdencity #zwinger
travel_with_me_club
1.5K likes • 33.5K views
⤵️ Tap to find out what city this is 📍 Dresden - one of Germany’s most underrated gems ✨ Here’s what to see in a day: 🏛️ Zwinger Palace - for baroque art and architecture 🎨 Albertinum - modern & romantic art in one 🌅 Brühl’s Terrace - golden hour walks above the river 🧀 Stop by Dresdner Molkerei Gebrüder Pfund - the most beautiful cheese shop in the world! 🌇 Sunset from Augustus Bridge - t...
evelinadventures
67 likes • 2.2K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Zwinger's Baroque design is incredibly photogenic, especially the courtyards and pavilions. Instagram

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! Allocate at least 3-4 hours to truly enjoy the exhibitions and grounds. Reddit

reddit.com

Tips on cheap tourist spots Dresden?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Zwinger Tickets Online

Save time and skip the lines by purchasing your Zwinger Palace tickets in advance online. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the palace grounds and museums. TikTok

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Zwinger's Baroque design is incredibly photogenic, especially the courtyards and pavilions. Instagram

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! Allocate at least 3-4 hours to truly enjoy the exhibitions and grounds. Reddit

🗺️ Get a Map Onsite

The palace layout can be a bit confusing; a map helps navigate the different sections and museums. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(53k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Zwinger Palace for its breathtaking Baroque architecture and the impressive collections within its museums, particularly the Old Masters Picture Gallery and Porcelain Collection. Many highlight the beauty of the courtyards and gardens, making it a visually stunning experience. Some note that navigating the various exhibitions can be a bit confusing, and occasional renovations might be present, but overall, it's considered a must-see in Dresden.

"This a wonderful and beautiful palace ground in a baroque style. Built with beautiful gardens inside and a pathway on the top of the building where you can walk around and enjoy the view. You can walk all around through the Kronentor and onwards. A very pleasant building"

Anand

"It's such a beautiful place. I don't think I'll ever forget it. If you come to Dresden, you absolutely must go there twice!! The construction is just finishing up :)"

Dan Lee

"Fantastic place to visit. It takes a few hours to go through each of the exhibitions but it's worth it. One small con is that you can never be sure that you visit everything that is there to be seen. Somehow it's easy to lose the track as exhibitions are in different sections of the court dividend by stairs/halls etc. Anyway, if you are in Drezno and have free time - go there :)"

Grzegorz Chwastarz

What People Like

Stunning Baroque architecture
World-class art collections
Beautiful courtyards and gardens

What People Dislike

Can be confusing to navigate
Occasional renovations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Zwinger Palace is centrally located in Dresden. You can easily reach it by tram (lines 3, 7, 8, 9 to Postplatz or Theaterplatz) or by a pleasant walk from the main train station (Dresden Hauptbahnhof). Many visitors also arrive by bus tours. TikTok

Yes, Zwinger Palace is very well-served by public transport. The nearest stops are Postplatz and Theaterplatz, which are hubs for numerous tram lines. TikTok

Absolutely! Zwinger Palace is within easy walking distance of most central Dresden attractions, including the Frauenkirche and Brühl's Terrace. It's a scenic walk through the historic city. Instagram

There are several parking garages near Zwinger Palace, such as the Altmarkt-Galerie or the Semperoper parking garage. However, public transport is often more convenient due to potential traffic and parking fees. TikTok

Approaching from Theaterplatz, with the Semper Opera House on your right, offers a grand first impression of the Zwinger's magnificent Baroque facade. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Zwinger Palace tickets at the ticket offices on-site or conveniently online through the official Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden website. Booking online is recommended to save time. Reddit

Zwinger opening hours vary by season and museum. Generally, the palace grounds are open daily from morning until evening, while the museums have specific hours, typically from 10 AM to 6 PM. It's best to check the official website for the most current Zwinger opening hours. Reddit

Ticket prices for Zwinger Palace vary depending on which collections you wish to visit. A combined ticket for multiple museums is usually available and offers better value. Check the official website for current Zwinger ticket prices. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking Zwinger tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues and guarantee entry. Reddit

Yes, you can often buy individual tickets for specific museums within the Zwinger, such as the Old Masters Picture Gallery or the Porcelain Collection. Combined tickets are also available for access to multiple exhibitions. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Zwinger Palace houses several key attractions: the Old Masters Picture Gallery (Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister), the Porcelain Collection (Porzellansammlung), and the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments (Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon). The Baroque courtyards and gardens are also a major draw. Instagram

To fully experience the Zwinger Palace and its museums, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you only want to see the courtyards and architecture, 1-2 hours might suffice. Reddit

The beautiful gardens and courtyards are great for children to explore. While the art and instrument collections might be less engaging for very young children, older kids can appreciate the history and artistry. TikTok

Yes, you can walk along the balustrades of the Zwinger Palace, offering elevated views of the courtyards and surrounding architecture. This pathway connects various sections and provides unique perspectives. Reddit

Renovations can occur at historical sites like the Zwinger Palace. While some parts might be under construction, the overall experience remains impressive, and often the scaffolding adds a unique visual element. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Kronentor (Crown Gate), the Nymphenbad (Nymphs' Bath) with its sculptures, and the central courtyards with their fountains are prime photography spots. The elevated walkways also offer great vantage points. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed inside the Zwinger museums for personal use, but without flash. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions, so always check signage. Instagram

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful soft light that enhances the Baroque architecture. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and softer light. Instagram

Don't miss the intricate sculptures, the grand staircases, the symmetrical courtyards, and the ornate details on the pavilions. The Nymphenbad is particularly photogenic. Instagram

Tripods are often restricted inside museums to protect the artworks and avoid obstructing other visitors. Check the specific rules for each museum within the Zwinger. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Zwinger Palace offers a visually stimulating experience for families. The open courtyards and gardens are perfect for kids to explore and run around in. The Nymphenbad (Nymphs' Bath) with its fountains and sculptures is often a hit with younger visitors. TikTok

While the art and instrument collections might require more focused attention, consider focusing on specific exhibits that might capture their imagination, like the intricate porcelain or the historical scientific instruments. Bringing a small sketchbook can encourage them to draw what they see. Reddit

🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about art and history, the Zwinger Palace is an absolute must-visit. The Old Masters Picture Gallery is a highlight, housing an unparalleled collection of European paintings. Take your time to study the works of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Raphael. Instagram

Don't miss the Porcelain Collection for its exquisite examples of Meissen craftsmanship and the Mathematical-Physical Salon for a fascinating look at historical scientific instruments. The Baroque architecture itself is a significant historical artifact, so dedicate time to appreciating its design and grandeur. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Zwinger Palace is a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning Baroque architecture. The Kronentor (Crown Gate), the Nymphenbad, and the symmetrical courtyards are iconic shots. Instagram

Experiment with different angles from the elevated walkways for unique perspectives. The golden hour light in the late afternoon or early morning can create magical scenes. Remember to check photography rules inside the museums, as flash is usually prohibited. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Zwinger's Collections

The Zwinger Palace is not just a beautiful building; it's a treasure trove of art and history. The Old Masters Picture Gallery (Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister) is world-renowned, housing masterpieces by European greats like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Raphael. Prepare to be captivated by iconic works such as Raphael's 'Sistine Madonna'. Instagram

The Porcelain Collection (Porzellansammlung) showcases an astonishing array of Meissen porcelain, from delicate figurines to grand tableware. It's a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship that originated in this region. Instagram

For those fascinated by science and exploration, the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments (Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon) offers a glimpse into the scientific advancements of past centuries. You'll find antique globes, astronomical instruments, and intricate clocks. Instagram

The Architectural Marvel of the Zwinger

The Zwinger Palace is a quintessential example of Baroque architecture, designed by Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann and built between 1709 and 1742. Its name, 'Zwinger,' refers to its original function as a fortified outer ward of the Dresden Castle. The palace complex is arranged around a series of courtyards, featuring grand pavilions, arcades, and the stunning Nymphenbad (Nymphs' Bath), a Baroque water feature adorned with mythological sculptures. Instagram

Visitors can explore the Kronentor (Crown Gate), the main entrance, which is particularly impressive. A unique feature is the elevated walkway that runs along the top of the arcades, allowing visitors to stroll around the courtyards and enjoy panoramic views of the palace grounds and the city beyond. This architectural design creates a sense of grandeur and theatricality, characteristic of the Baroque era. Reddit

Experiencing the Zwinger Gardens and Courtyards

Beyond its museums, the Zwinger Palace offers a delightful experience through its meticulously maintained courtyards and gardens. These open spaces are perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and admire the Baroque design from different angles. The Nymphenbad (Nymphs' Bath) is a highlight, especially on a sunny day, with its playful sculptures and water features. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy simply wandering through the grounds, finding quiet spots to sit and appreciate the architecture. The elevated pathways provide a unique perspective, allowing you to see the symmetry and scale of the palace. It's a place where history, art, and nature converge beautifully, making it a memorable part of any visit to Dresden. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2