A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Dresden for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Dresden?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Dresden. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a relaxing, enjoyable, and unique national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

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.

Lake District National Park and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dresden. Although Lake District National Park and Dresden are popular destinations, Dresden has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dresden is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. 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). It is also well known for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace.

How is Lake District National Park different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Dresden is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park is an experience not to be missed. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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 Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Dresden is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Dresden has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Dresden is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Lake District National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden is not a hiking destination.

People visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Dresden is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dresden has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Lake District National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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 Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Lake District National Park is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Lake District National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lake District National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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 Lake District National Park or Dresden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Dresden is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Dresden has some public transit options. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Lake District National Park or Dresden a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Dresden

Dresden is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Dresden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Dresden. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Dresden. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Dresden for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The architectural destination of Dresden offers shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Dresden, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


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


Which place is cheaper, Dresden or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Dresden is £116. 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 Lake District National Park and Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Dresden £53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Dresden £106
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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: Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Dresden £9.06

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

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 Lake District National Park or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Dresden £27

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.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Dresden £8.20

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

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
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Dresden £13

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Dresden, we can see that Dresden is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dresden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dresden than you might in Lake District National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Dresden in the Summer?

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

Lake District National Park is cooler than Dresden in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Dresden. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dresden in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is cooler than Dresden. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dresden averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Dresden. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dresden in the Winter?

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

Dresden can be very cold during winter. Lake District National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Lake District National Park is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Dresden. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Dresden 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dresden in the Spring?

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

Lake District National Park is cooler than Dresden in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Dresden. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)