Zwinger and Semperbau
Sophienstraße, Dresden, 01067
One of Dresden’s most important historic landmarks—and renowned for its ornate baroque design—the Zwinger was built in 1719 as a place of regal recreation. Later, in 1855, the more austere Semperbau was added to the Zwinger complex. Today, both are home to art collections featuring works by the old masters, plus antiquities.
The basics
The Zwinger complex has a sculpture-encrusted exterior, grand fountains, and gardens, and hosts several art collections; the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters Picture Gallery), Skulpturensammlung (Sculpture Collection), the Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon (Mathematical and Physical Salon), and the Porzellansammlung (Porcelain Collection). The Zwinger and Semperbau are a highlight of any Dresden visit. The site additionally features on numerous sightseeing itineraries, including walking tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike tours, and private excursions.
Things to know before you go
Tickets to the Zwinger can be booked online in advance, and entitle you to visit its four major exhibition areas. Kids aged 17 and under visit for free.
It is forbidden to bring large coats and other bulky items into the museum; they should be left in the museum’s cloakroom.
Wheelchair users can access the Zwinger complex through the Crown Gate or Glockenspiel Pavilion; its exhibition spaces are accessible, and disabled toilets are hosted in the courtyard.
How to get there
The Zwinger complex is located at Theaterplatz 1, 01067 Dresden. It’s 15 minutes on foot from Dresden Mitte, a regional train station, and 20 minutes on foot from the Dresden Hauptbahnhof, the city’s main station. The area is also served by numerous bus and train lines.
When to get there
The Zwinger is open every day except Mondays, from morning until early evening. The museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth revisiting it to see what’s on. It may also be worth extending your visit; classical musical performances are regularly held in the evening at the Zwinger Palace’s Wallpavillon.
What to look out for at the Zwinger and Semperbau
The Zwinger and Semperbau are home to a wealth of timeless masterpieces. Collection highlights include canvases by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Raphael; a 450-year-old astronomical clock; a 13th-century Islamic globe; an 18th-century Chinese porcelain lantern; and much more.
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