A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Wurzburg vs. Dresden for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg 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.

Wurzburg

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

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.

Wurzburg and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Wurzburg or Dresden?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dresden than Wurzburg. Dresden is bigger than Wurzburg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dresden is better known for its big city activities, while Wurzburg is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Wurzburg 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). Also, Dresden is famous for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Wurzburg is well known for its wines, gardens, and charming old town.

How is Wurzburg different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wurzburg
Dresden

Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg on the map. The Franconian city is known for its history and architecture. One of the most well know sights is the 18th-century Residenz palace. Other attractions in town include the Martin von Wagner Museum, the Würzburg Court Gardens, the Marienberg Fortress, and the Würzburg Cathedral & 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 Wurzburg or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wurzburg
Dresden

Foodies will find both Wurzburg and Dresden both to be notable destinations.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wurzburg. There are local restaurants that serve up regional specialties like bratwurst, weisswurst (white sausage), and Bavarian cream. There are also fine dining restaurants and cafes that cater specifically to tourists.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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 Wurzburg or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Wurzburg
Dresden

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Wurzburg and Dresden.

The nightlife in Wurzburg has something for everybody. The town is in the heart of the Franconian wine district, so you'll find many wine bars, cellars, and wineries around town. For something a bit more active, there are some lively clubs and bars to choose from as well.

Dresden offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Wurzburg or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Wurzburg
Dresden

Both Wurzburg and Dresden have excellent historic old towns worth visiting.

Wurzburg is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is best explored on foot and there are walking tours available that take you through many of the historical and architectural landmarks.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Wurzburg or Dresden?

Wurzburg
Dresden

If you're looking to go shopping, Wurzburg and Dresden both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wurzburg. There are several shopping streets as well as some major department stores and local venues.

Dresden offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Wurzburg or Dresden Better for Families?

Wurzburg
Dresden

Neither Wurzburg nor Dresden are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

For families, Wurzburg is not always the best place to visit. The city is filled with history and cultural sights that can sometimes be challenging for young kids. To break up the history, head to some of the town's gardens and main square.

Dresden is not the most family-friendly destination. 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 Wurzburg or Dresden Better for Couples?

Wurzburg
Dresden

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

Couples visit Wurzburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful gardens, there is lot for a couple to explore together. You can wander through the fortress or soak up the beautiful gardens.

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 Wurzburg or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wurzburg
Dresden

For backpackers, both Wurzburg and Dresden are notable places to visit.

Wurzburg is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town and it's easily accessible from Frankfurt by public transit. Many people also choose to visit Wurzbug as a day trip.

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

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

Wurzburg
Dresden

Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg. The system includes trams and buses, including five tram lines that make loops around 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 Wurzburg or Dresden a more walkable city?

Wurzburg
Dresden

Wurzburg and Dresden are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Wurzburg is very walkable. You can wander around town and take in many of the sights and attractions as part of a walking tour.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Wurzburg?

How long in Wurzburg or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wurzburg and Dresden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dresden than in Wurzburg. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Wurzburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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

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

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


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

One day in Wurzburg or Dresden?

In Wurzburg, 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.

The city of Dresden offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Wurzburg or Dresden?

In Wurzburg, 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 Wurzburg has to offer.

Dresden is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Wurzburg or Dresden?

Wurzburg 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.

Dresden is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Wurzburg or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wurzburg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wurzburg. 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 great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden or Wurzburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wurzburg is €120, while the average daily cost in Dresden is €135. 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 Wurzburg and Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wurzburg 79
    Dresden 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wurzburg 158
    Dresden 122
Compare Hotels in Wurzburg and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg


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: Wurzburg Hotel Prices and Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wurzburg 7.89
    Dresden 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Private transfer from Prague to Berlin with Meissen Porcelain Manufactory stop: $250
  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague: $209
  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $157
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $91
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Wurzburg or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden and Wurzburg 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
    Wurzburg 35
    Dresden 31

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": $116

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wurzburg 8.94
    Dresden 9.56

Tours and Activities in Wurzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wurzburg.

  • WÜrzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour in Würzburg: $7.59
  • Würzburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Rothenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City tour through Würzburg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • Discover Würzburg Walking Tour with Typical Wine Gift: $21
  • Medieval Musical Tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber: $22
  • Romantic Road Ticket from Würzburg(Main) to Rothenburg/Tauber (SUNDAY): $40
  • Wurzburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $251

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: $43
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden: $43
  • 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: $299
  • Astonishing Dresden - Guided Walking Tour: $425
  • 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
    Wurzburg 12
    Dresden 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Wurzburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wurzburg:

  • Private mulled wine tour in Würzburg: $54
  • Romantic Road Day Trip from Würzburg to Rothenburg/Tauber incl. Wine tasting : $97

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: $400


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


Which is Bigger, Wurzburg or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wurzburg. When comparing the sizes of Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg or Dresden in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Wurzburg as well as Dresden. Many travelers come to Wurzburg for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Dresden in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wurzburg is generally around the same temperature as Dresden. Daily temperatures in Wurzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Wurzburg usually gets less rain in July than Dresden. Wurzburg gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wurzburg 20°C (68°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Dresden in the Autumn?

Both Dresden and Wurzburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wurzburg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Wurzburg is around the same temperature as Dresden in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wurzburg averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Wurzburg usually receives less rain than Dresden. Wurzburg gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wurzburg 12°C (53°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Dresden in the Winter?

Both Dresden and Wurzburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wurzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Wurzburg can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Wurzburg is much warmer than Dresden. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wurzburg in January average around 1°C (35°F), and Dresden averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Wurzburg usually gets more rain in January than Dresden. Wurzburg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Wurzburg or Dresden in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wurzburg and Dresden. The spring months attract visitors to Wurzburg because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

In April, Wurzburg is generally around the same temperature as Dresden. Daily temperatures in Wurzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Wurzburg usually receives less rain than Dresden. Wurzburg gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wurzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Wurzburg

Wurzburg Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)