September 11, 2025, 3:30 pm | Read time: 5 minutes

The Saxon capital Dresden is among the top destinations in East Germany for many vacationers, thanks to its architecture, museums, and the Elbe landscape. But nearby, Meißen awaits—a smaller yet equally worthwhile city. Once the residence of Saxon electors, it now offers a mix of tradition, craftsmanship, and old-town charm.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Meißen

Porcelain Factory

Meißen is inseparably linked with the famous porcelain. As early as 1708, the first European porcelain was produced here—marked to this day by the world-renowned crossed swords. Those who want to experience the craftsmanship up close can gain fascinating insights at the Meißen Experience World.

A factory tour through the demonstration workshops allows visitors to see how individual pieces are created. The Porcelain Foundation Museum also features exhibits spanning 300 years, ranging from tableware to sculptures and ornate vases. And for those looking to treat themselves, you can purchase some of the “white gold” directly on site.

Albrechtsburg

Visible from afar is the Albrechtsburg. It is not only a landmark of the city along with the Meißen Cathedral but also the oldest castle in Germany. Built in the 15th century as a representative residential castle on the fortress complex above the city—it is still referred to as a castle today, although it is technically a palace, as stated on the Schlösserland Sachsen website.

Several paths lead from the marketplace to the castle in about ten minutes. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded not only with a great view of the surrounding vineyards and the Elbe but also with late Gothic halls and wall paintings inside.

Meißen Old Town

Anyone in Meißen should definitely take a closer look at the old town. Here you’ll find winding alleys, half-timbered houses with colorful facades, and small shops. If you take your time, there’s something new to discover around every corner. In addition to impressive Renaissance facades, there are confectioneries and coffee houses with specialties like Baumkuchen. Since Meißen is located in the Saxon wine region, there are also many places with local wine. And it’s worth listening: Several times a day, the world’s first porcelain carillon from the Frauenkirche at the marketplace rings out.

Moritzburg Castle

What would a visit to Meißen be without a detour to the iconic Moritzburg? Known from the cult fairy tale “Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella,” the castle is one of Saxony’s most famous film locations. About a 15-minute drive away, it is located in the town of the same name on an artificially created island in the castle pond.

Those traveling by public transport can take the regional train or S-Bahn from Meißen to Radebeul and then continue by bus to Moritzburg. Fairy tale fans can follow Cinderella’s footsteps here—in the winter season, even with an exhibition dedicated to the film. A walk around the pond is also worthwhile. Originally built as a hunting and pleasure castle, Moritzburg today houses one of Europe’s most significant collections of hunting trophies, as stated on the official website.

Travel to Meißen

Meißen is easily accessible by car. From the A4, the Wilsdruff exit leads directly into the city via country roads, and from the A13, you can reach Meißen via Radeburg. Traveling by public transport is also straightforward: Regional trains and the S-Bahn run regularly from Dresden and take only about 30 minutes to reach the old town.