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

Should you visit Dresden or Strasbourg?

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

Should I visit Dresden or Strasbourg? 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 friendly, architectural, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a picturesque, impressive, and quaint city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dresden and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dresden or Strasbourg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dresden than Strasbourg. Dresden is bigger than Strasbourg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dresden is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Strasbourg is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Dresden is well 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. Strasbourg is well known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Dresden different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

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

Strasbourg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Dresden or Strasbourg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

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 Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Dresden is a great city for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Dresden has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Dresden or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Strasbourg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 the Shopping Better in Dresden or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg Better for Families?

Strasbourg is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Strasbourg. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

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 Dresden or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Dresden or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dresden and Strasbourg are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Strasbourg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Dresden or Strasbourg Better for Students?

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

Strasbourg is popular with students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Dresden or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Dresden and Strasbourg both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dresden and Strasbourg. In our opinion, Strasbourg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Strasbourg than Dresden. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Dresden, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg.

One day in Dresden or Strasbourg?

With museums and nightlife around the architectural city of Dresden, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dresden, one day is sufficent for most.

In Strasbourg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Dresden or Strasbourg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Dresden, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg has to offer.

Five days in Dresden or Strasbourg?

Dresden, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg 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 Dresden or Strasbourg?

Dresden is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Dresden or Strasbourg?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Dresden and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Dresden or Strasbourg in the Summer?

Both Strasbourg and Dresden during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dresden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dresden is around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dresden in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Dresden usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Strasbourg. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Strasbourg. Many travelers come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dresden is generally around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 11°C (51°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In October, Dresden usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dresden or Strasbourg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dresden as well as Strasbourg. Many visitors come to Dresden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Strasbourg can be very cold during winter. Dresden can get quite cold in the winter. Dresden is much colder than Strasbourg in the winter. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Dresden usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dresden for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dresden is around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dresden in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In April, Dresden usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Dresden