A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Dresden for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Antalya or Dresden?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Antalya or Dresden? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a historic, cultural, and vibrant vacation spot. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dresden

Dresden is a cultural, park-filled, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Antalya or Dresden?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya than Dresden. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antalya is very popular for its museums, food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Dresden attracts visitors for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Dresden and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also well known for Hadrian's Gate. Dresden is famous for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady).

How is Antalya different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dresden and Antalya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Dresden?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.


Is the Food Better in Antalya or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Antalya is an experience not to be missed. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Antalya
Dresden

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Dresden.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Dresden is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Music?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a popular place for its music scene. However, Dresden is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Dresden is not a live music destination.


Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Resorts?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its resorts. However, Dresden is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Dresden is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dresden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Dresden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Beaches?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for the beach. However, Dresden is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Dresden is not a beach destination.


Is Antalya or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Antalya
Dresden

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Antalya and Dresden.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Hiking?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Dresden?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Antalya is a world class destination for shoppers. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.


Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Families?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Couples?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antalya is a very popular vacation spot for backpackers and budget travelers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.


Is Antalya or Dresden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya
Dresden

Antalya is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Antalya. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

While Dresden offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Antalya or Dresden a more walkable city?

Antalya
Dresden

Dresden is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Dresden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Dresden. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Dresden. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Dresden. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Dresden if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.


  • How many days in Antalya or Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antalya 2-5 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Antalya or Dresden?

In Antalya, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Dresden, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Antalya or Dresden?

In Antalya, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer.

In Dresden, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dresden has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Dresden?

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Dresden is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antalya. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dresden. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dresden. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden or Antalya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antalya is $147, while the average daily cost in Dresden is $145. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Antalya and Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antalya $55
    Dresden $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antalya $110
    Dresden $132
Compare Hotels in Antalya and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Antalya or Dresden? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Antalya


Hotels in Dresden


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antalya Hotel Prices and Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antalya $110
    Dresden $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

Also for Antalya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - Economy: $88
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - TOP VIP Minibus: $132
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minibus: $117
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minivan: $103
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Denizyaka / Gündoğdu / Çolaklı: $76
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Titreyengöl / Sorgun: $91
  • AYT - Konyaaltı | Private Transfer Between Antalya Airport: $37
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Adana city Hotels: $55
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Tarsus city Hotels: $82
  • Airport Private Transfer from Antalya to Side/Belek/Kundu: $65
  • Alanya City Tour, Boat Trip & Cable Car with Transfer from Side: $63
  • Alanya/Mahmutlar: Private Transfer to/from Antalya Airport: $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77

Is it cheaper to fly into Antalya or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden and Antalya change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Antalya $25
    Dresden $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Traditional Turkish Tastes at Antalya Food Tour: $47
  • Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $73
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $104

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dresden.

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antalya $46
    Dresden $10

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Antalya Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $3.21
  • Bazaar Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $6.00
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt And Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.84
  • Antalya Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-Guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Sulu Island and Adrasan Bay: Boat Tour with Lunch: $13
  • Full-Day Private Rafting Adventure in Karabük Türkiye: $13
  • Spa and Skin Care Experience with Massage and Drink: $14

Tours and Activities in Dresden

Here are a few actual costs in Dresden for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hour GDR Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 day ticket Grand City Tour Hop on Hop off 22 stops: $24
  • 3H Private Walking Tour: Dresden city centre and Old Masters Painting Gallery: $300
  • Astonishing Dresden - Guided Walking Tour: $427
  • Bad Schandau Scooter Tour in Saxon, Switzerland: $52
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden - Hiking Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Fantasy Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Winter Tour: $171
  • Bicycle tour of Dresden: $32
  • Big Sightseeing Tour in Dresden with Liveguide: $21
  • Big city tour hop on hop off 22 stops: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antalya $20
    Dresden $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Dresden

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dresden:

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Dresden, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Antalya Expensive? and Is Dresden Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Antalya or Dresden?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Dresden. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Dresden, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Antalya or Dresden?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

Antalya is a little warmer than Dresden in the summer. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Dresden. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antalya 28°C (83°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Dresden in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Dresden. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Antalya is much warmer than Dresden. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antalya in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Dresden averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Antalya usually receives more rain than Dresden. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antalya 21°C (69°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Dresden in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Dresden. Many travelers come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Dresden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dresden can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Antalya is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 11°C (51°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Dresden. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antalya 11°C (51°F) 
    Dresden 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antalya in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dresden for the activities around the city during these months.

Antalya is much warmer than Dresden in the spring. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 16°C (62°F) in April, and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Dresden. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antalya 16°C (62°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Antalya

Antalya Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)