Dresden's 'Balcony of Europe': A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the River Elbe

Dresden , Germany

Dresden's 'Balcony of Europe': A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the River Elbe

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(4 reviews)

45m - 1h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The cobbled streets and historical charm of Dresden attract busloads of visitors but only a few of them find its hidden ”balcony”. This stretch along the River Elbe is in the city centre, but has stately architecture and sweeping views over the magnificent Elbe Valley with its vineyards. Property here was once so coveted that for a long time only a select few could even set foot upon the Balcony of Europe.

On this self-guided audio tour you'll learn the answers to these questions:

• How did this come to be called "The Balcony of Europe"?
• Can there be someone richer than a king?
• What’s the name of Dresden's most famous cake?
• What’s the significance of a bench made out of white plastic?
• Is there a link between Dresden's and Hansel and Gretel?
• What is Saxony's "White Gold"

Available options

Dresden's 'Balcony of Europe': A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the River Elbe

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts in Schlossplatz.

You'll pass by the Academy of Fine Arts

You'll pass by the Festung Xperience.

Stop 4 Pass by

Your tour will end at the Albertinum.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Smartphone and Headphones

Transportation

Food/Drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Dresden

Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Known as the 'Florence of the Elbe' due to its baroque and rococo architecture, the city offers a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy along the Elbe River.

Top Attractions

Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche is a stunning Baroque church that was rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II. It is a symbol of reconciliation and peace.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free entry, donations welcome

Zwinger Palace

The Zwinger Palace is a beautiful Baroque complex that houses several museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery and the Porcelain Collection.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €12-€14 for museum entry

Semperoper

The Semperoper is one of the world's most famous opera houses, known for its stunning architecture and acclaimed performances.

Architecture/Cultural 1-2 hours for a tour, longer for a performance Tours: €9, Performances: €20-€150

Dresden Castle (Residenzschloss)

Dresden Castle is a historic palace that houses several museums, including the Green Vault and the Armory.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €12-€14 for museum entry

Elbe River Cruise

An Elbe River cruise offers a unique perspective of Dresden's skyline and landmarks. Cruises are available in various durations and themes.

Nature/Entertainment 1-3 hours €15-€50 depending on the cruise

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dresdner Eierschecke

A traditional layered cake made with eggs, quark, and cream, topped with a layer of baked cheese.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance

Sächsische Klöße

Potato dumplings, often served with meat and gravy.

Side Dish Can be made gluten-free, but typically contains potatoes and flour

Dresdner Sauerbraten

A pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, often served with red cabbage and Klöße.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Dresdner Christstollen

A traditional fruit bread made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, often dusted with powdered sugar.

Dessert Contains dairy and nuts, not suitable for vegans or those with nut allergies

Popular Activities

Hiking in Saxon Switzerland Rock climbing Boat tours on the Elbe Spas and wellness centers Elbe River cruises Walking tours Museum visits Opera and ballet performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Dresden, with pleasant weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists, and all attractions are open.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Russian
English: Moderately spoken, widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dresden is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Dresden Airport • 9 km from city center

By train

Dresden Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Dresden Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Dresden, mytaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Innere Altstadt Neustadt Blasewitz Loschwitz

Day trips

Saxon Switzerland National Park

30 km from Dresden • Full day

A stunning national park known for its unique rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic views.

Meissen

25 km from Dresden • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its porcelain production and beautiful architecture.

Pillnitz Castle and Park

8 km from Dresden • Half day

A beautiful castle and park located along the Elbe River, offering stunning views and historic architecture.

Festivals

Dresden Music Festival • May to June Dresden Christmas Market • Late November to December 24th Dresden Opera Ball • Late January

Pro tips

Visit the historic centers early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Take a guided tour of the Green Vault to learn about the fascinating history of the collection
Explore the neighborhoods beyond the historic center for a more local experience
Try the local specialties, such as Dresdner Eierschecke and Saxon Sauerbraten
Attend a performance at the Semperoper for a unique cultural experience