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

Should you visit Dresden or Brescia?

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

Should I visit Dresden or Brescia? 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a park-filled, friendly, and architectural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a undisovered, authentic, and under-rated city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dresden and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Dresden or Brescia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dresden than Brescia. Dresden is bigger than Brescia, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dresden is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Brescia is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Brescia and is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). Also, Dresden is famous for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Dresden different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dresden
Brescia

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Dresden or Brescia.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dresden. 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.

Brescia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


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

Dresden
Brescia

Brescia 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 Brescia is an experience not to be missed. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

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 Dresden or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Dresden
Brescia

Dresden is well known for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Dresden or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Dresden
Brescia

Dresden is well known for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Dresden to see the historical old town. 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.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dresden or Brescia?

Dresden
Brescia

Brescia is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

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 Dresden or Brescia Better for Families?

Dresden
Brescia

Most people don't think of either Dresden or Brescia as a family destination.

Dresden doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Dresden or Brescia Better for Couples?

Dresden
Brescia

With fun activities for couples, both Dresden and Brescia make for a notable place to visit.

Dresden is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Brescia is a nice destination for couples. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Dresden or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dresden
Brescia

Dresden is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Dresden or Brescia Better for Students?

Dresden
Brescia

Brescia is a popular place for students. However, Dresden is not popular with students.

Brescia is popular with students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Dresden
Brescia

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dresden and Brescia.

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Dresden or Brescia a more walkable city?

Dresden
Brescia

Dresden is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dresden or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dresden than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Dresden, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dresden than Brescia 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 Dresden.


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

One day in Dresden or Brescia?

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.

In Brescia, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Dresden or Brescia?

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.

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


Five days in Dresden or Brescia?

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.

Brescia is a great place to explore. 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 Dresden or Brescia?

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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Dresden?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dresden is €135, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Dresden and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dresden 61
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dresden 122
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Dresden and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Dresden or Brescia? 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 Dresden


Hotels in Brescia


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: Dresden Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dresden 11
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Dresden or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Dresden 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
    Dresden 31
    Brescia 47

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

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dresden 9.56
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Dresden

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • River Elbe Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Old Town Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour : $7.99
  • Old Town Highlights Self-guided Tour: $8.45
  • Tour of VW's Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • The Green Factory Tour VW Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • Special Tour for Children & Families VW Factory: $9.62

Tours and Activities in Brescia

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

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dresden 16
    Brescia 23

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When comparing the travel costs between Dresden and Brescia, we can see that Brescia 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 Dresden Expensive? and Is Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dresden or Brescia?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Brescia. When comparing the sizes of Dresden and Brescia, 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 Dresden or Brescia?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dresden or Brescia in the Summer?

Both Brescia and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dresden is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dresden in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In July, Dresden usually receives less rain than Brescia. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dresden 20°C (68°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Dresden or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Dresden during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dresden in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Dresden is generally cooler than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 11°C (51°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in October than Brescia. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dresden 11°C (51°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Dresden or Brescia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Brescia. Most visitors come to Dresden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. Dresden can be very cold during winter. Dresden is much colder than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In January, Dresden usually receives less rain than Brescia. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dresden 1°C (33°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Dresden or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dresden as well as Brescia. The spring months attract visitors to Dresden because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In the spring, Dresden is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dresden in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in April than Brescia. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dresden 10°C (50°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Dresden

Dresden Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)