Dresden Frauenkirche: Ascent to the Dome

What would happen if you fly like a bird and soar in the sky in one of Europe's most beautiful cities? Well, I didn't quite fly but I did get a chance to explore the city from the bird's eye when I climbed up on the top of Frauenkirche in Dresden, Germany!

When I was in the city, both the days and the nights were cloudy and I pined to see even a small patch of blue sky. I was staying at the Swissotel Dreden Am Scholss which is right in the centre of old town and is a perfect location for anyone who loves to walk, and that's exactly what I did! During the nights I explored the Christmas Markets of Dresden, and during the day I either went up to the hills, like to the Bastei Bridge, or simply strolled around exploring the baroque legacy of the city.

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
River Elbe from top


Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
Looking down at the entrance


My ascent to the Dome

However, I kept postponing the climb up to the dome of the reconstructed Frauenkirche which was really close to my hotel. I knew the views would be gorgeous from up there and was waiting for the right day, and that day came just before I was about to leave back for India. As usual I was up before dawn and was out braving the winter cold, but a surprise was waiting for me. As soon as the sun was up, I saw almost clear blue sky and some beautiful golden sunlight. I knew what this meant - I was going to climb up to the dome of Frauenkirche!

I was one of the first ones there in the line and within minutes of reaching there, I was on my way up. The way up is a mix of travel by lift for the first 24 metres and then a walk up to the tomb, and the walk is a bit more steep than I imagined. The path has a gradient of 14 percent and I could a few older couples struggling to walk up. There are a couple of viewing platforms and I strongly recommend going all the way up on the steep ladder stairway because you will be rewarded with the most beautiful views of the city - river Elbe on one side and the gorgeous baroque buildings all around.

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
Dresden from top

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
Tower of the Palace

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
I love these beautiful apartments!

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
Across the river

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
Everyone busy clicking :)

Dresden Frauenkirche Ascent Dome
View of the Palace, now the museum

Practical Details

Where?

The dome of Dresden Frauenkirche, Neumarkt, 01067 Dresden, Germany

Timings:

November to February
Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Sunday 12.30 a.m.–4 p.m.

March to October
Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Sunday 12.30 a.m.–6 p.m.

Fee:

Adults: 8 € | Families: 20 €
Concessions: 5 € |  Student groups: 2 € per person | Dresden Cards: 6 €

Exploring Dresden

There is, of course, much more to Dresden in Dresden and you can easily spend days here. Read this excellent guide to learn more: Top things to do in Dresden.

Just like me Megan also loved the city, and explored it much beyond the Old town. Here's an cool piece on Dresden Neustadt.

Comments

  1. The views look incredible! I am so lazy about getting up super early, but thankfully my sister is good about waking up for things like this because in the end it's so worth it. I think I'll have to train a little on the stair-master so I don't get so exhausted from the climb :)

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    1. Haha...no need for training, it's not so bad. Plus you don't have to go all the way up also :)

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  2. I love all these old European churches and towers that allow you to climb them. They always provide the best views of the city and surrounds

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    1. I second that. Wherever possible, I always climb those in Europe...love the feel from up there :)

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  3. What a great way to see a city, I loved your post and the extra twist you put on it. I have been wanting to go to Dresden for a while now and you post and pictures make that desire even more. I would definitely love to go up in Frauenkirche, I love looking at places from above.

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    1. You must go to Dresden! The city is a like a beautiful dream :)

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  4. I love European churches. Not been to Dresden yet. The view from the Dome looks amazing. I love that you included the practical tips.

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    1. Same here...I too love the old European churches :)

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  5. Must've been quite the workout! I'd definitely do it anyway because I like a good reward at the end and clearly, the views are divine!

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  6. Replies
    1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOkfMR8vMIk - Recent trip to Dresden
      And enjoying the amazing music of the famous pianist
      I wish everyone a pleasant holiday

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  7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOkfMR8vMIk Recent trip to Dresden
    And enjoying the amazing music of the famous pianist
    I wish everyone a pleasant holiday

    ReplyDelete
  8. I am just planning a trip to Dresden, it was very useful post:-)

    ReplyDelete

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