Things To Do
in Dessau-Rosslau
Dessau-Roßlau sits along the Elbe river in Saxony-Anhalt, blending industrial heritage with expansive parks. The city is renowned for its Bauhaus legacy, including the UNESCO-listed Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm nearby. In the heart of the city, modern museums and riverside walks connect architectural history with outdoor leisure.
Its relaxed pace makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation, where you can immerse yourself in the world of modernist architecture. Take a guided tour through the iconic Bauhaus building, learning about its history and design principles. Enjoy a coffee at the on-site café, which is designed to reflect the Bauhaus aesthetic.
Stroll through the nearby Masters' Houses, where famous Bauhaus artists lived and worked. Each house has been preserved to showcase its unique architectural style and the lives of its residents. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and the landscaped gardens surrounding these historic structures.
Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Try traditional Saxon dishes while enjoying the ambiance of the city's vibrant dining scene. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Elbe, soaking in the peaceful evening atmosphere.
Start your day at the Anhalt Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Explore the diverse collection of art, artifacts, and exhibitions that highlight the history of Dessau and its surroundings. Don't forget to check out the museum's beautiful gardens for a refreshing stroll.
After your museum visit, take a short walk to the nearby Georgium Palace, an 18th-century castle surrounded by picturesque parkland. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the palace gardens while appreciating the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Spend the afternoon exploring the estate, including its lovely sculptures and natural beauty.
As the sun sets, head to a local theater to catch a performance or concert. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene, which often features both contemporary works and classic pieces. After the show, grab a drink at a nearby bar, mingling with locals and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $20-30 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Night in mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong Bauhaus heritage and architecture
- Beautiful riverside setting with parks and gardens
- Compact city that is easy to explore on foot or by bike
- Limited nightlife and large-scale entertainment
- Some museums have limited hours outside peak season
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
Places to Visit in Dessau-Rosslau
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic modernist lines and bold geometry provide striking subject matter in different light.
A historic granary by the river with strong forms and reflections for dramatic compositions.
Colorful facades and a lively square offering candid street photography opportunities.
Riverside views and historic buildings along the waterfront create timeless scenes.
Extensive gardens, lakes, and classical pavilions provide expansive landscape photography.
Food in Dessau-Rosslau
Dessau-Rosslau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef marinated in vinegar and spices, slowly roasted and served with red cabbage and dumplings.
Must-Try!
Tangy crumbly cheese served with hearty rye bread and onions; a regional snack often enjoyed with a beer.
Sweet fried quark pancakes dusted with sugar, a comforting regional dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh regional produce, breads, cheeses, and occasional street bites on market days.
Seasonal bites and snacks during events and family-friendly weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' and a handshake in formal settings.
Use Sie for strangers; switch to du only when invited to do so.
Be punctual for appointments and trains.
Respect residential quiet hours and reduce loud noise in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Dessau-Rosslau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash (Euro) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (EC/debit, credit) are common in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Flowers bloom across parks and gardens; temperatures are mild and great for outdoor strolls and markets.
Warm days with long evenings are ideal for river walks, bike rides, and lake visits; occasional rain can occur.
Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage; excellent for photography in gardens and along the Elbe.
Cold with possible snow; indoor museums and Bauhaus venues are cozy refuges and cultural hubs.
Dessau-Rosslau at Night
Hiking in Dessau-Rosslau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic routes through the garden realm with lake views and woodland paths.
Easy-to-moderate trails along the river offering peaceful scenery.
Airports
How to reach Dessau-Rosslau by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours by train or car; frequent connections to major cities.
Regional-to-international flights with good rail links from Dessau-Roßlau.
Regional airport with connections across Europe; about a 2-3 hour train journey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Influenced by the Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and Bauhaus heritage; a youthful, educated population.
Quiet neighborhoods with parks and lakes appeal to families and older residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played; local matches and friendly leagues run in season.
Extensive bike paths along the Elbe and around garden realms; popular with locals and visitors.
Water-based activities on the Elbe and nearby lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dessau-Rosslau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free dishes and look for cheese- or egg-based plates. In German you can say 'Ohne Fleisch, bitte.'