A paddle steamer sails on the Elbe in summer

Steamboats, historic railways and more

Full steam ahead into the past!

How about gliding elegantly across the Elbe on one of the world’s oldest paddle steamers? The ships of the ‘Weiße Flotte’ are true time machines – just like, for example, the Weißeritztalbahn, Germany’s oldest public, steam-powered narrow-gauge railway. Steamers, railways, a venerable funicular railway, and so much more: why not set off at a leisurely pace?

View from the Elbe of Brühl’s Terrace with the Academy of Fine Arts, Frauenkirche and three docked paddle steamers

Saxon Steamship Company

It’s always a good idea!

The paddle wheel turns leisurely, steaming, hissing and thumping: anyone boarding one of the historic Elbe steamers of the famous ‘White Fleet’ at Dresden’s Terrassenufer is in for a five-hour journey back in time: The longest scheduled service heads upstream to Bad Schandau. The world’s oldest and largest fleet of paddle steamers offers travel experiences just like those of 100 years ago – even the lowering of the funnel when passing particularly low bridges is part of the experience. A particular treat is the ‘Wine Route Line’ from Dresden via Meissen to Diesbar-Seußlitz – both wonderful wine-growing towns!

Family with two children at Weißes Roß stop in Radebeul, ready to ride the Lößnitzgrundbahn through Dresden Elbland.

Historic narrow-gauge railways

Narrow track, great fun

Of Saxony’s seven remaining active narrow-gauge railways, two stunning routes – the Weißeritztalbahn and the Lößnitzgrundbahn – wind their way through the Dresden Elbland region. Treat yourself to one of the most delightful ways to slow down: At a leisurely pace, yet with plenty of power, the steam locomotives chug through valleys, pulling the old carriages past lakes and rivers, passing historic stations and taking you and the whole family on a journey back in time. It’s particularly cosy in winter, when a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine is a must on board.

Family at the suspension railway with a view over Dresden and the Blue Wonder

Historic mountain railways

Let’s head up the mountain for a bit.

If you’re looking for a comfortable way to reach the slopes of the Elbe, you’re spoilt for choice in the eastern district of Loschwitz: two different Dresden funicular railways have been operating here for over 120 years – and their valley stations are just 150 metres apart, near Körnerplatz. The difference? Mainly the climbing technique: one is a so-called funicular railway, the other a suspension railway. Both are steeped in history – and give a pretty good impression of how enduring technology can stand the test of time.

Die 'Saxonia' - Deutschlands erste Dampflokomotive im Verkehrsmuseum Dresden

Saxony Steam Railway Route

Experience a journey through time on the rails

Saxony is regarded as Germany’s steam railway region. The numerous highlights relating to historic railways are linked by the Saxony STEAM RAILWAY ROUTE, a holiday route, with three branches of the route converging in Dresden. With the Dresden Transport Museum, the park railway in the Großer Garten, the Windberg Railway, the Tram Museum, the historic mountain railways and the Railway Museum in Dresden’s Old Town, railway enthusiasts and those with a taste for nostalgia are in for a treat. The Railway Museum becomes an international attraction every April, when the Dresden Steam Locomotive Rally is on the calendar.

Unforgettable moments

The must-see attractions in Dresden Elbland: from the Semperoper to the picturesque vineyards

Discover the most beautiful sights of Dresden Elbland: from the Semperoper and the Zwinger to the picturesque vineyards and the Elbe floodplains. Experience Baroque splendour, historical treasures and idyllic natural scenery – all in one region!

On a discovery tour with experts

Guided tours & sightseeing trips in Dresden Elbland: a blend of city charm and natural beauty

Discover Dresden’s baroque splendour and the idyllic Elbland region on guided tours on foot, by bus or by boat. Our guides will show you the region’s highlights – from the Semperoper to the vineyards – and make your visit unforgettable. Experience Dresden Elbland from a whole new perspective!

Dresden Elbland: an event hotspot

Experience more and more

In Dresden Elbland, you can experience culture and a zest for life all year round: major concerts, open-air events, wine festivals in the Elbland region and colourful markets. Discover cultural diversity and let yourself be enchanted by the unique atmosphere of Dresden and the Elbland region.