2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

In this rare opportunity, Dr Fraser Macdonald, anthropologist and historian, takes you on a deep journey into the hidden 700 year history of Dresden before, during, and after it became an icon of Baroque splendour. Across visits to a range of crucial sites in the city, you will learn of the prehistoric significance of the Elbe Valley for Paleolithic and Neolithic populations, the ancient origins of Dresden as a small fishing village, its growth from a tiny city to a flourishing centre of the Holy Roman Empire, the enormous impact of Luther's Reformation, as well as the damage and destruction produced by centuries of warfare.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infants must be carried by adults

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Professional Guided Tour

Entrance to Dreikönigskirche (5 Euro to climb the tower)

Entrance to Residenzschloss (14 Euro entrance fee)

Entrance to Museum für Sächsische Volkskunst (5 Euro entrance fee)

Haus der Kirche - Dreikoenigskirche

Museum fur Sachsische Volkskunst mit Puppentheatersammlung

What To Expect

Here the tour begins on the banks of the Elbe where Dresden was first permanently settled. We will pause to consider the history, culture, language, and eventual displacement of the people who first lived here.

15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Museum fur Sachsische Volkskunst mit Puppentheatersammlung

Here we will explore the fascinating history of this site, beginning in the 15th century as a fabulously wealthy Augustinian monastery before being demolished and turned into a royal hunting lodge in the 16th century after Luther's Reformation. Please note we will not be entering the building and its museums, but participants are free to do so at their own leisure. Ticket prices can be found here: https://volkskunst.skd.museum/besuch/

15 minutes • Admission Not Included

Options

2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden

Reviews

4.95

56 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Interesting tour - I...
David P,
Sep 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Interesting tour - I would recommend it. See some sights in both Neustadt and Altstadt and learn about the recent and not-so-recent history.
We enjoyed the tour. An...
Steve N,
Aug 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00
We enjoyed the tour. An excellent guide. Highly recommended place to visit. It’s a manageable place to spend a day.
Amazing Tour - Don’t Miss It!
Tony B,
Aug 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Dr. Fraser Mcdonald was an awesome guide and so personable and kind. It was a wonderful tour experience! We hit all the highlights we were hoping for… and more. The glimpse offered into this beautiful city’s history is unforgettable and timeless! Bonus: He took the best photos of us! We are so grateful for his time and wealth of knowledge. Highly recommend this tour - don’t miss it!
Excellent overview of...
Simon G,
May 29, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Excellent overview of Dresden’s history, architecture and culture. Fraser, our guide is very knowledgeable and friendly. Presentation was engaging. We recommend him
Fraser - Fascinating, Fun, and Full of Insight!
Cameron T,
May 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Fraser’s walking tour was the perfect introduction to Dresden. As an anthropologist, he brings a unique and deeply human perspective to the city’s history—connecting the past to the present in a way that’s both thought-provoking and easy to follow. He’s incredibly knowledgeable without ever feeling like he’s lecturing. Instead, it feels like you’re strolling through the city with a friend who knows all the hidden corners, quirky stories, and powerful moments that shaped Dresden. The pace was perfect, the route beautifully planned, and Fraser’s passion for the city is contagious. I left feeling like I understood not just Dresden’s history, but its soul. Highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants more than just dates and facts—this is storytelling at its best.