People in smart clothes stroll amongst the market stalls, soft light filters through the narrow streets, and warm hues lend the façades an air of elegance: This is how one might describe the masterpiece “Market Square in Pirna”, in which Canaletto depicted the splendour of Pirna in the 18th century. Yet one need not be familiar with the painting to appreciate this description, for Pirna has retained the splendour of bygone days to this very day.
Pirna
Sandstone teeming with life
Top things to do in Pirna
Take a journey through time!
St Mary’s Church still towers over the market square, with sandstone and richly decorated façades characterising the townscape, and Pirna’s narrow streets are still bustling with activity, inviting visitors to take a leisurely stroll through the town. Those fascinated by times gone by can take a journey back in time here: from the open-air amateur play re-enacting Pirna’s rescue during the Thirty Years’ War, through ‘The Living Canaletto Painting’, to Richard Wagner’s world-famous work, history is brought to life in Pirna.
Richard Wagner Memorial Graupa
Where Richard Wagner created the sketches for his opera "Lohengrin" during a summer vacation in 1846, there is now a modern multimedia exhibition.
Hiking and cycling tours
Those who prefer to explore the countryside rather than travel through time will find an impressive hiker’s paradise in the neighbouring Saxon Switzerland. Furthermore, the Elbe Cycle Route and the Saxon Wine Trail lead downstream along the Elbe towards the state capital, Dresden. From gentle vineyards to dramatic cliffs, a world of outdoor activities unlike any other unfolds; the old town buzzes with colourful activity, and the cultural heritage invites you to join in the festivities. All this is Pirna: as artistic as it is close to nature, as relaxing as it is spectacular – and sandstone full of life.
Saxon Wine Hiking Trail - Stage 1 - From Pirna to Dresden-Pillnitz
The Saxon Wine Trail begins where the first large vineyards once appeared on the Elbe: in Pirna.
Through the Elbland in two days
The two-day route leads through the Dresden Elbland region – always along the Elbe for a total of 150 km through Dresden, Radebeul, Meissen, Riesa, and Pirna.
Elberadweg - Dresden Elbland section - left side of the Elbe
On the section of the long-distance bike trail along the left bank of the Elbe, cyclists travel 125 kilometers through the idyllic landscapes of the Dresden Elbland region, experience local history, and encounter many cultural highlights, especially in the cities of Pirna, Dresden, Meissen, and Torgau.
Beautiful natural scenery and a wealth of variety
FreitalFreital is a young town brimming with nature, nostalgia, art and adventure, which delights visitors with its numerous cycling and walking trails.
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