What are the visa requirements for traveling to Prague from Dresden?
As both cities are within the Schengen Area, travelers typically do not need a visa for short stays. This applies to citizens of Schengen Area countries, who can move freely across member states. However, non-EU citizens should check entry requirements based on their nationality.
Are there good day-trip opportunities from Prague?
Definitely! Everyone who visits Prague should make a trip to the UNESCO-listed town of KutnĂĄ Hora, with its historic silver mines and Gothic architecture, and the impossibly charming ÄeskĂœ Krumlov (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Brno and Vienna are less than 4 hours away if you start the day early.
How much is a train ticket from Dresden to Prague?
A train ticket typically costs between $68 (63 euros) and $128 (119 euros), depending on the class and when you booked. The transit takes around two hours. Keep in mind if youâre carrying heavy luggage, this might not be the best option for you.
What is the best way to get from Dresden to Prague?
The best way to get from Dresden to Prague is by using Daytripâs private car service. Itâs convenient. Each vehicle is clean, fully airconditioned, and smoke-free. Each car has seats for your kids, is handicapped-accessible, and is driven by an English-speaking driver. And best of all, you can stop for sightseeing on the way!
Is Dresden close to Prague?
Yes, Dresden is relatively close to Prague, with a driving distance of just 93 miles (150 kilometers). Because they're so close, it is a popular route for locals and visitors alike.
What is the cheapest way to get from Dresden to Prague?
The most economical option is by bus, which offers several daily low-cost services between these cities, with tickets starting at just $9 (âŹ8). However, the bus is slightly slower and less comfortable than the train.
Traveling from Dresden to Prague takes you to the heart of Central Europe. The Czech Republicâs capital, Prague, has been awarded as a leading cultural destination. Several transportation options exist between these cities, such as taking a car. The distance spans approximately 93 miles (150 kilometers), and the route takes about two hours.
Driving gives travelers the freedom to explore landmarks, from natural vistas to bustling cities. One of these is the Elbe River Valley, famous for its design dating back to the Industrial Revolution. You can also head to the landscapes of the Bohemian Highlands, which is split by this river.
Along the way, you can stop to stretch your legs exploring the fantastic rock formations of Bastei in âSaxon Switzerland,â scale the mountaintop Konigstein fortress, admire the charming architecture of LitomÄĆice, or learn about the low point of the 20th century at the Terezin concentration camp. These stops can turn your two-hour road trip into an enriching adventure, and they will get you ready to explore Prague!
About Prague
Going from Dresden to Prague brings you to a city touted as a true escape from the modern world. For one, the most revered musicians in the world etched their lives here. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart considers Prague his home. It was also where his Prague Symphony and Don Giovanni were first performed. The city holds a spring music festival each year to commemorate the music of great Czech composers AntonĂn DvoĆĂĄk, BedĆich Smetana, and LeoĆĄ JanĂĄÄek.
As you set foot here, youâll fall in love with its beautiful Gothic cathedrals, Baroque palaces, and hundreds of gardens across the city. Whether youâre fond of marveling at architecture or a history buff, thereâs really nowhere better to be. From the Prague Castle to the heart of the Old Town Square, you can easily spend your day discovering the cityâs finest attractions.
Prague was founded in the ninth century and later became the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia and a cultural hub of Central Europe. During the 1300s, it thrived under Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. The city has endured the toughest times, such as the Habsburgsâ rule. It was also one of the settings for the Protestant Reformation. Later on, it was occupied by the Nazis and Soviets.
This history shaped how the city looks today. Hereâs a list of some of the best places to visit when you get to Prague:
Knowing these tips will help make your Dresden to Prague visit a hassle-free experience.
Learn a few basic Czech phrases
Czechs are big on formality. Every conversation should start with dobrĂœ den (good day) and end with dÄkuji (thank you). ProsĂm is please and you're welcome. You'll be using that a lot. Learning these and a few other key phrases (pivo is beer) will allow you to interact with the locals and show respect for Czech culture. Statistics show that only about 45 percent of the population speaks some level of English. Czechs know their language is hard and appreciate the effort!
### Be aware of the local customs and legal requirements
For instance, if you're driving yourself, you need a vignette to drive on certain highways in the Czech Republic. Donât worry though, you can purchase this at most border crossings or gas stations. Or as mentioned above, always say hello, please, and thank you.
### Carry cash
While digital payments are widely accepted, some smaller shops, local restaurants, and street food stalls are still cash-only. When you get to Prague, be sure to withdraw some Czech koruna (use a bank ATM) for purchases in places that do not accept cards.
How to get from Dresden to Prague
Dresden and Prague are only separated by a distance of 93 miles (150 kilometers). Being two important Central European cities, theyâre well connected, so you have plenty of transportation options.
Dresden to Prague by bus
The bus is the cheapest way to get from Dresden to Prague and is popular with visitors and locals alike. Fares start at just $9 (âŹ8), so buses often sell out, especially in the summer. If you are traveling on a budget, make sure to book in advance since tickets have been known to soar to $119 (âŹ111) at peak travel times. The bus isnât without drawbacks though. Along with being crowded, theyâre less spacious in general, especially with their under-stairs bathroom. And the ride can take longer.
### Dresden to Prague by train
The train from Dresden to Prague provides a balance of speed and scenic travel, with direct connections linking the two cities in approximately two hours. This offers the comfort of larger seating areas, on-train amenities like a dining car, and the convenience of frequent departures from Dresden Hauptbahnhof to Prague HlavnĂ NĂĄdraĆŸĂ.
### Dresden to Prague by plane
Donât bother. While both cities have airports, there are no direct flights because theyâre so close together. The airfare costs around $285 (âŹ265) and the time of the journey can take more than eight hours, excluding airport processes, because most flights aren't direct and will have layovers in different cities.
### Dresden to Prague by boat
Yes, it is also possible to travel part of the way from Dresden to Prague by boat but note that this is not the most popular and straightforward method. The boat ride typically involves taking a cruise along the Elbe from Dresden to Decin. From Decin, youâd have to take a bus to Melnik to get another boat to Prague, or just take the bus all the way to Prague. While the river is scenic, weâd recommend just arranging a river cruise once you get to Prague.
### Dresden to Prague by car
If youâre planning on exploring the Czech countryside after you get to Prague, driving a rental car is an option. It only takes two hours depending on traffic and road conditions. From Dresden, youâll drive along the A17 Motorway before you cross the Czech border and then traverse the D8 Motorway. While the drive itself is pretty easy, we donât recommend this option.
Navigating Pragueâs narrow streets can be harrowing, especially with trams whizzing by mere inches away. Also parking in the city is difficult unless itâs provided by your accommodation. Finally, you donât need a car to get around Prague, and the robust bus and train network can easily get you to the top sights outside the city.
### Dresden to Prague with Daytrip
If you want the freedom of driving without any of the drawbacks, you want a private car transfer with Daytrip. With Daytrip, you can look forward to an English-speaking driver picking you up at your accommodation in Dresden and handling your luggage before whisking you away on the road to Prague.
Along the way you can talk about local history and culture or get insider insights on things to do when you get to Prague. But best of all, Daytrip lets you stop for sightseeing along the way, so you can easily experience more of Germany and the Czech Republic before you're dropped off at your final destination in Prague.
Things to do when you get to Prague
After your trip from Dresden, youâll be raring to explore the Czech capital. Here are some of the best things to do when you get to Prague:
Historic Prague
Prague was largely untouched by World War II, so itâs one of the best-preserved historic cities in Europe. In fact, its entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! If you want to experience the cityâs rich history and magnificent architecture, start your visit at the Old Town Square.
From here you can follow the âRoyal Wayâ through the medieval heart of Prague, past significant landmarks such as the Old Town Hall, and the Astronomical Clock, across Charles Bridge, through the Mala Strana, and up to Prague Castle. If youâre spending more than a few days in Prague, itâs a great idea to dedicate more time to exploring each area
Art and music
Prague has witnessed remarkable moments in history for art and music. Thus, thereâs no better place to immerse in them than here. Start your day at the National Gallery Prague, showcasing collections spanning from Medieval to contemporary art.
To continue your artistic escapades check out the Rudolfinum and the DOX Center for Contemporary Art. The Rudolfinum hosts the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and the latter offers exhibitions in a modern architectural setting. For art nouveau enthusiasts, head to the Municipal House, which also dazzles spectators with classical music performances.
Activities for kids
There may be no Disneyland in Prague, but kids will love it here too. The Prague Zoo ranks among the world's best, featuring diverse animal exhibits and interactive zones.
Petrin Hill, accessible via a funicular ride, has gardens to explore. Then, you have the Petrin Observation Tower for panoramic views. Nearby, the Mirror Maze adds an element of fun and discovery for children.
Local flavors
Want to introduce your palate to Czech dishes? Then Prague is the perfect place. Taste test the cityâs culinary delights with traditional local dishes and favorites. First-timers should try svĂÄkovĂĄ (slices of beef in a vegetable cream sauce with steamed dumplings), smaĆŸenĂœ sĂœr (Czech fried cheese), chleb (Czech bread), and chlebĂÄky (Czech-style open-faced sandwiches).
End your meal with something sweet. Although itâs not actually a Czech dish, all throughout the city, you can find trdelnĂk, a cinnamon-sugar pastry often filled with ice cream or whipped cream. For something more traditional, keep your eye out for a cukrĂĄrna (pastry shop) and get yourself a decadent pastry (expect a lot of cream fillings).
Some restaurants to try are Restaurant MlĂœnec, La Degustation BohĂȘme, and KantĂœna.
Explore the city
Beyond its main attractions, Prague is hiding tons of âInstagrammableâ locations. Snap a few flicks and visit VyĆĄehrad for a relaxing respite.
Then, you can pose by the John Lennon Wall to take pictures with a landmark that symbolizes peace and artistic expression.
Circling back to Pragueâs gardens, Vojan Gardens can give you a place to kick back and watch the clouds. After you leave Pragueâs oldest garden, you can wander through Kampa Islandâs canals.
You might also want to see some modern art installations nearby, such as âBabies,â a series of sculptures by David ÄernĂœ.
When is the best time to visit Prague
Tourists heading from Dresden to Prague must know that the optimal time to visit the Czech capital is during the spring and early fall when the weather is mild. Temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), so the climate is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city on foot. Even better, the city also wonât be overcrowded with tourists.
Visiting during these months allows you to experience Prague's Easter markets and the famous Prague Spring Music Festival, a month-long celebration from May to June. These events will give you that chance to see Prague's cultural heritage and break out a few dance moves.
Alternatively, if you love Christmas, come in the winter. From the end of November, holiday festivities take over the city, and many of Prague's many squares fill with festive Christmas Markets. Get some mulled wine, sausages, and fried bread, and enjoy the special performances and twinkling Christmas lights!
Visitez ces sites en chemin
Pillnitz
Located on the banks of the River Elbe and only a short distance from central Dresden, Pillnitz Castle is architecturally unique and visually stunning. The Castle With Three PalacesÂ
Bastei
The Bastei is a one million-year-old rock formation regarded by many as the highlight of the Saxon Switzerland National Park in Germany. Nature at its finestÂ
Weesenstein
Tucked away in the pleasant countryside south of Dresden, Weesenstein is a majestic site perched on its wooded eyrie above the valley. Glorious castle overlooking the MĂŒglitz valleyÂ
Konigstein
A castle has stood atop Koingstein Hill since 1233 and it has a history just as long, varied and exciting as one would expect! A Hilltop Fortress Like No OtherÂ
Litomerice
This sleepy medieval village on the Elbe River has a beautiful town square lined with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings. A Quiet EleganceÂ
Terezin
With the greater part of the Czech Tourism Industry focused on distant centuries it's important to be aware how profoundly the horrors of the Twentieth Century marked the country. Gestapo Prison and Concentration CampÂ
