Known as the ‘Florence on the Elbe’, Dresden is a city brimming with sheer splendour and timeless beauty. As the sun rises over the famous silhouette of the Old Town, and the Elbe sparkles with light, Dresden will immediately charm you with its beautiful baroque buildings, Mediterranean architecture, outstanding art treasures, and distinctive character.
Visitors from all over the world pour into this vibrant riverfront metropolis to learn about its tumultuous past and experience its unique cultural landscape.
Dresden’s hotels radiate the city’s eclectic atmosphere and range from bucolic boutiques to grand, historic masterpieces. Here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Dresden, Germany (in no particular order)…
1. Moxy Dresden Neustadt – a trendy, contemporary and hip hotel perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
Beautifully situated in the heart of the Neustadt district, within walking distance of the banks of the river, The Moxyis the ideal starting point from which to explore the ‘Florence on the Elbe.
Your in-room experience will be characterized by modern amenities, functional space, and state-of-the-art bathrooms with large walk-in showers. The fun begins on arrival to the hotel’s lobby, where your check-in will be accompanied by a complimentary signature cocktail.
To unwind you can head to the hotel’s open space, where communal tables and comfy seating areas make it the perfect place to mingle with like-minded travellers. Alternatively, the on-site Moxy Bar and the 24/7 Grab and Go provide convenient options for snacks, meals, and drinks.
2. Hotel Indigo Dresden – Wettiner Platz, an IHG Hotel – a vibrant, trendy boutique accommodation within walking distance of the city center
Curated spaces, modern comforts, and local vibes typify this contemporary boutique, which is located a stone’s throw from Dresden’s historical centre.
The 132 graceful sanctuaries come with a delicious buffet breakfast, as well as access to a well-equipped fitness centre. In the communal area, the fresh decoration scheme is brought to life by a system of vibrant, bright lights, many of which hang over quirky coffee tables and set a hip trendy tone.
At Hotel Indigo, your entire stay will be characterized by high levels of comfort, extending to the on-site bar which boasts an extensive list of draft beers, fine wines, and crafted cocktails.
3. Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection – a newly renovated, upscale and Instagrammable hotel in close proximity to famous landmarks
Setting out with a vision to enhance luxury living through charming little touches to delight visitors, Gewandhaus is embellished with furnishings created by regional craftsmen.
A commitment to handmade products is also evident in the on-site steakhouse, where the food is cooked to perfection. The hotel further offers a stunning bakery which lures in passers-by on a daily basis, and a gourmet breakfast buffet serving traditional morning classics.
The guestrooms are renovated with high-quality custom-built furniture and design work, and are accompanied by Italian marble bathrooms and premium designer cosmetics. Gewandhaus is in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town, providing easy access to the city’s main attractions.
4. Hyperion Hotel Dresden Am Schloss – an elegant, lavish and stylish hotel located in the heart of the Old Town
The Hyperion invites you through a historic façade into a modern interior design concept, right in the heart of the Old Town.
You will have the Frauenkirche and the castle within your immediate vicinity, making Hyperion a convenient option for your first trip to Dresden.
To reenergize, the hotel boasts a wellness area and a fitness centre, located in the 15th-century vaulted cellar, and a serene pampering experience is provided through a bio sauna, a Finnish sauna, and a relaxation lounge. The 235 guestrooms and suites offer innovative, open-plan bathrooms, as well as fantastic views of the city’s illustrious landmarks.
5. mightyTwice Hotel Dresden – one of the coolest hotels in the city providing guests with a unique, themed and funky stay
This stunning hotel complex is formed around the building’s original structure, which served as a popular ball room from 1891. The communal areas are draped in quirky décor and vivid colours, embodying the unique design concept of the signature Twice spirit.
The 148 guestrooms revolve around the essences of comfort, cosiness, and style, and each blends classical furnishings with modern eccentricity.
MightyTwice is one of Dresden’s most popular havens, owing to its uplifting ambiance set by a charming music theme. Here, the history of music is brought to life, true to the hotel’s motto of ‘funky beats since 1891’!
6. ARCOTEL HafenCity – am Neustädter Elbufer – an urban, bright and new hotel steps away from the creative and hipster district
Located in the eclectic HafenCity, the new hot spot in Dresden, ARCOTELis surrounded by an emerging hipster scene, and caters to both business and leisure travellers.
The design of the 183 guestrooms and suites maintains a special focus on local details in a friendly layout, and exudes comfort through plush linens and luxury amenities.
You can indulge in delicious Mediterranean flavours in the on-site restaurant, where a relaxed and social dining atmosphere is graced by cultural panache. The hotel’s bar is a space where jetsetters and locals unite, whether that’s over a fresh juice by day or a fancy cocktail concoction by night.
7. INNSiDE by Meliá Dresden – a stylish, spacious and design hotel where guests can enjoy the luxury of an on-site spa and wellness center
Underpinned by a fantastic location just off the main square in Dresden’s old historic core, INNSiDE by Meliá is an exceptionally stylish and modern four-star with plenty of designer touches.
As you walk into the large, light-filled reception area and have a rest on the comfortable lounge-style seating, your city break will begin with opulence.
A glass lift followed by a corridor hung with black and white photographs of old Dresden will lead you to your room, which includes many designer touches and luxury amenities. The on-site restaurant VEN offers a slick, modern setting and beautiful furniture, and is graced by an enormous painting of Dresden’s Baroque city core.
8. Hotel Elbflorenz Dresden – an Italian-style, beautiful and quiet hotel where guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the city
Here we have the largest private run hotel in Saxony, where a philosophy rooted in high-quality service sets the tone for an epic city break.
Hotel Elbflorenz boasts a stunning garden terrace and a quiet inner courtyard, which is linked to the Italian Restaurant Quattro Cani. At this refined eatery you can indulge in homemade pizza from the stone oven, as well as many Italian dishes which incorporate regional products and herbs from the hotel’s garden.
When you’re ready to explore the charming surrounds, you can rent bicycles and venture into the countryside along the Elbe. Otherwise, you can unwind in the sauna and fitness area on the 7th floor, where you can relish breathtaking city views from the loungers in the light-flooded relaxation area.
9. Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski – a 5-star, fancy and pet-friendly hotel in an ideal spot to explore around the city
Set in an idyllic location for exploring the fascinating Dresden, this 18th-century masterpiecehas been longingly restored into a five-star luxury hotel, and is a seamless coalescence of historic glory and contemporary elegance.
The hotel’s lavish guestrooms afford spectacular views over Dresden’s historic centre, and are dressed in a timeless design. The historic inner courtyard evolves from a sparkling ice rink in winter to an oasis of relaxation during summer.
For dinner, you can treat your tastebuds in either the authentic Palais Bistro, the New York-inspired Karl May Bar, or the magnificent baroque setting of Café Vestibuel.
10. Hotel Villa Sorgenfrei & Restaurant Atelier Sanssouci – a charming, lavish and antique-style hotel featuring a Michelin star restaurant and beautiful vineyards
The historic murals that dot the property, the old trees and the serenity that surrounds them, and the precious interior materials all tell stories of a bygone era.
As you step into this momentous villa, check in to your opulent room, and dine in the glamorous Restaurant Atelier, you will be transported to a feeling of nostalgia. By day you can take a trip through the delightful surroundings of the vineyards, or revel in moments of recreation, wellness, and togetherness on the property’s lush grounds.
11. Hotel Schloss Eckberg – a historic and charming hotel with an Insta-worthy backdrop housed in one of Germany’s most beautiful castles
Every moment is magical at this beautiful castle hotel, which is enthroned against a stunning backdrop from high above the River Elbe.
The complex is set in a wonderful park landscape, inviting you to escape from everyday life and discover something special. The surrounding greenery will greet you through the large windows as you wake up, after a soothing sleep in one of the majestic guestrooms.
The on-site spa offers a chance for you to let go and soak up a picturesque atmosphere as you indulge in a moment of wellness. A trip here is made complete with a visit to the castle’s cosy cellar, where you can enjoy a fine glass of wine and many classic delicacies.
12. SPA-Resort Landlust in Dresden – a country-style, unique and peaceful resort located across a four half-timbered houses
Here we have a small, family-run hotel, whose 17 country-style rooms are spread over 4 timber-framed buildings, 150 metres apart. SPA-Resort Landlust is an idyllic accommodation option owing to its spacious feel, as well as its inhouse ventilation system that replaces used air with totally fresh air.
Once inside, you will be charmed by a traditional cottage-style feel, however a sense of luxury will greet you in the rustic in-house spa, where a refined pampering experience awaits.
The hotel is very well connected to the centre of Dresden by tram, and the Merianplatz station is reachable within a 10-minute walk.
13. Townhouse Dresden – an upscale, modern and elegant accommodation surrounded by an array of restaurants and popular attractions
Townhouse offers a smart, lavish, and timeless design, and puts you in the heart of the baroque Old Town next to the world-famous Frauenkirche.
A blissful combination of warm hospitality and elegant Italian design radiates through the 95 guestrooms and suites, where high-quality furnishings are tailored to the needs of the individual.
At Townhouse, you can benefit from a fitness area equipped Life Fitness equipment, free drinks in the lobby, and the exclusive Bellini Lounge.
A standout feature of the hotel is The Breakfast Club, which is fronted by orange trees and invites you to savour a Californian style menu as you get your day off to an elegant start.
14. Sax Imperial – an idyllic and historic accommodation that blends old time charm with modern day amenities
Dressed in an Art Nouveau style, Sax Imperial is beautifully located on the edge of the Dresdner Heide, and combines the charm of the past with modern hotel standards.
Built in 1906, the hotel’s striking façade immediately evokes a sense of splendour, while the interiors invite you into a world of chic elegance with a touch of bright, boutique flair.
The accommodations, through up-to-date bathrooms and neutral elements, beautifully contrast the traditional feel in the corridors, bringing a quirky juxtaposition to your stay. A rich and fresh breakfast buffet is served each morning, which you can sit and savour on the beautiful open-air terrace when the sun is shining.
To book, check prices or availability for Sax Imperial
15. Trobischhof – a traditional, quaint boutique accommodation well equipped for a memorable vacation
Situated on the outskirts of Dresden in the Alttrachau district, Trobischhofis a tranquil haven that originated as farm before becoming a bucolic boutique hotel.
If you’re in pursuit of a place of solitude, where you can embrace a graceful ambiance with your partner or family, then this is the perfect choice for you.
As a guest you can stay in either the pension, or one of two apartment buildings, all of which exude comfort in a quaint and restful space.
Some rooms are decked out in plush materials and modern amenities, while others boast charming outdoor terraces, and others are designed in a traditional style under vaulted ceilings.
To book, check prices or availability for Trobischhof
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
