A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Nuremberg vs. Dresden for Attractions, Old Town, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nuremberg or Dresden?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nuremberg and Dresden can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a charming, beautiful, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dresden

Dresden is a park-filled, friendly, and architectural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nuremberg and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Dresden?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dresden than Nuremberg. While Nuremberg is larger than Dresden, Dresden has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dresden is more popular for its big city activities, while Nuremberg is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Nuremberg is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. Dresden 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 home to Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace.

How is Nuremberg different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nuremberg is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Nuremberg on the map. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Nuremberg and Dresden both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nuremberg. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Dresden is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Nuremberg or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nuremberg and Dresden.

Nuremberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Many people head to Dresden for the nightlife scene. 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 Nuremberg or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden?

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden Better for Families?

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

Nuremberg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Nuremberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Nuremberg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden Better for Students?

Nuremberg is a great destination for students. However, Dresden is not popular with students.

Nuremberg is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

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 Nuremberg or Dresden a more walkable city?

Nuremberg and Dresden both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Nuremberg is a very walkable city. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nuremberg and Dresden. In our opinion, Nuremberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nuremberg than Dresden. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Nuremberg or Dresden?

In Nuremberg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Dresden. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dresden has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nuremberg or Dresden?

In Nuremberg, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nuremberg has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dresden. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nuremberg or Dresden?

Nuremberg 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Dresden. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Nuremberg or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nuremberg. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

Dresden is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nuremberg and Dresden, we can see that Dresden is more expensive. And not only is Nuremberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nuremberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg.

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

Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Dresden?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Dresden. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg or Dresden?

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 Nuremberg or Dresden in the Summer?

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

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

In July, Nuremberg usually receives more rain than Dresden. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Dresden in the Autumn?

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

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

Nuremberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Dresden. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Dresden in the Winter?

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

The weather in Dresden can be very cold. Nuremberg can be very cold during winter. Nuremberg is much warmer than Dresden in the winter. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Nuremberg usually receives more rain than Dresden. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Dresden in the Spring?

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

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

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in April than Dresden. Nuremberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Nuremberg