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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dresden than Newcastle upon Tyne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dresden is very popular for its big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Dresden is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is popular 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. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne is an experience not to be missed. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great destination for students. However, Dresden is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

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

In Dresden, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne has to offer.

Many people visit Dresden for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dresden, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

The destination of Dresden offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dresden. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Dresden because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Dresden in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Dresden. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Dresden. The autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

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

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

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Dresden. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dresden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dresden. It's quite cold in Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Dresden. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Dresden in the spring for the activities around the city.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Dresden in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Dresden. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Newcastle upon Tyne