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.

River Elbe from top

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 from top

Tower of the Palace

I love these beautiful apartments!

Across the river

Everyone busy clicking :)

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.