Großer Garten

The Großer Garten is a sprawling 1.8-square-kilometer park in the heart of Dresden, offering a peaceful escape from the city's historic center. Originally laid out in the 17th century as a baroque garden for the Saxon electors, it features a central palace (Palais im Großen Garten) surrounded by manicured lawns, tree-lined avenues, and ornamental ponds. The park also houses the Dresden Zoo (Zoo Dresden), one of Germany's oldest zoos, and the Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten), which showcases plants from around the world. Visitors can stroll or cycle along the park's many paths, rent a rowboat on the lake, or enjoy a picnic on the grass. The palace itself, though damaged in World War II, has been restored and occasionally hosts exhibitions. The Großer Garten is a beloved local spot for relaxation, recreation, and family outings.

Don't miss

• Visit the baroque Palais im Großer Garten and its surrounding formal gardens
• Explore the Botanical Garden's greenhouses and outdoor plant collections
• Spend a few hours at the Dresden Zoo, home to over 1,500 animals
• Rent a rowboat or paddleboat on the Carolasee lake
• Walk or bike along the park's main avenue, lined with chestnut trees

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Großer Garten

Cheapest way inAltstadtrundgang: Faszination Dresden4.1★ · 10 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$15 per personSee dates →Best full dayDresden City Tour & Bastei Bridge from Prague5★ · 406 travelers9–10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$151 per personSee dates →Top ratedDresden History & Stories Walking Tour w/ Dr Fraser Macdonald PhD5★ · 106 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$70 per personSee dates →