Saxony Germany Travel Guide
DVB (Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe) is the local authority operating Dresden's public transport. The network is highly efficient, reliable, and covers the entire city and the vicinity within the VVO (Verkehrsverbund Oberelbe) network.
Trams (Straßenbahn) form the backbone of Dresden's public transport. The city has an extensive network of 12 tram lines, rendering them simple to find your way around and frequently running. Trams are often the quickest means of getting between different city districts. Buses complement the trolley network, serving zones not covered by trams and providing connections to more compact districts and the outskirts. The S-Bahn (Suburban Train) links the city center with Dresden Airport and surrounding towns within the broader VVO network. It provides quick access to places such as Saxon Switzerland.
Fare Zones: Dresden city center within Zone 10. Tickets valid across trams, buses, and S-Bahn within zones. Single Trip, 4-Trip, Day Ticket (unlimited for ALL day and night), Weekly Ticket (7 days). Dresden City Card free public transport + discounts. Purchase from machines, on board trams, DVB centers, or DVB app on Smartphone.
Tickets validation. Paper tickets purchased at platforms or machines validation Before boarding at small stamping machines. Tickets bought from driver or on-board machines typically pre-validated. An unvalidated ticket considered invalid, penalty fine (€60).
Many trams and buses modern, low-floor vehicles, good accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers. Stations generally accessible. The DVB website specific accessibility information. A Lightweight folding wheelchair for independent travel, given some challenging cobblestone areas.
Typically cream-colored with a yellow "Taxi" a rooftop sign and a visible meter inside.
Hail on the street (roof light on), find at designated taxi stands (e.g., Hauptbahnhof, Postplatz), or order by phone.
Metered fares with a base fare (~€3.50-€4.00) and per-kilometer charge (~€2.00-€2.50). Airport into the city's core (~€25-€35).
Uber operates however limited. Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) is a popular app for ordering licensed taxis in Germany.
Consider renting a car or bicycle for more independent exploration.
Several companies offer hop-on-hop-off bus tours with makes stops at major attractions in the Historic city center and Neustadt. These provide a practical method to get an overview of the city and its main sights.
Sächsische Dampfschifffahrt: The Saxon Steamship Company operates historic paddle steamers and modern boats on the Elbe River. These are mainly for scenic tours and excursions to places like Pillnitz Castle or Saxon Switzerland.
Schwebebahn (Suspension Railway) and Standseilbahn (Funicular): Both in Loschwitz, these offer unique picturesque scenery and are included in the DVB the network of public transport (standard DVB tickets apply).
DVB strives for accessibility, with many low-floor trams and buses. Major attractions often have ramps, elevators, or specific accessibility provisions. Always check specific venue websites or reach out to them in advance for detailed accessibility information regarding their facilities.
Cyclists should follow driving regulations, have lights on at night, and be aware of pedestrians and trams.
Helmets are not legally required for adults only only but highly recommended for safety.
Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 12 or shorter than 150cm use an appropriate car seat.
Speed limits are enforced strictly. Drink-driving limit is 0.05% BAC.
Road conditions throughout Germany are excellent. German drivers generally disciplined. Be aware of great speeds on Autobahns. Always observe all traffic laws and the official speed limits.
In case of a breakdown on the Autobahn, use emergency phones or call 112.
Dresden’s compact city center and well-integrated transport network make it easy to get around.
Consider a Dresden City Card for access to public transport and attraction discounts.
