Discover

Saxony

Tucked away in eastern Germany, Saxony is a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the elegant baroque architecture of Dresden to the creative energy of Leipzig, its cities offer contrasting yet equally captivating experiences. Beyond the urban centres, Saxony’s landscapes beckon with forested mountains, fairytale castles, and dramatic rock formations like those in Saxon Switzerland National Park. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of composers and kings or hiking through breathtaking scenery, Saxony delivers a truly rewarding journey.

What you’ll love most about Saxony

Wander the storybook streets of Dresden, Saxony’s cultural capital, with its stunning Baroque architecture, riverside charm, and world-class art collections
Discover Leipzig’s thriving arts and music scene, home to historic composers, bold contemporary galleries, and vibrant nightlife
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Saxon Switzerland National Park, with sandstone cliffs, forest trails, and panoramic views ideal for hiking and climbing
Step into history at the impressive Moritzburg Castle and the medieval town of Meissen, known for its porcelain heritage and hilltop charm
Visit Görlitz, a beautifully preserved town often used as a film set, with centuries of architecture reflecting both German and Slavic influences
Experience Saxony’s festive spirit at traditional Christmas markets, especially in Dresden, where stalls glow with lights, crafts, and the scent of mulled wine

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Dresden’s weather patterns

Holiday Highlights

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

4℃J
6℃F
10℃M
16℃A
20℃M
25℃J
26℃J
26℃A
21℃S
15℃O
9℃N
5℃D

10J
8F
8M
7A
9M
9J
9J
9A
7S
8O
8N
9D

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

January

Saxony embraces winter with snow-dusted castles and frozen rivers. The Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) are especially enchanting, drawing skiers and snowshoers to Fichtelberg and quaint villages like Seiffen. Dresden's baroque skyline feels hushed under a pale winter sun, with crisp air and temperatures often dipping below freezing.

February

Cold still grips the region, but the atmosphere warms with Fasching celebrations. Towns like Leipzig and Bautzen host colourful parades, while spa resorts such as Bad Schandau provide welcome relief in the chill. Forest trails stay blanketed in snow, and highs typically remain around 2-4°C.

March

Signs of spring begin to show in the valleys. In Dresden and Meissen, crocuses push through the thawing soil, and the Elbe River starts flowing freely again. Snow lingers in the hills, but the mood brightens as museums and gardens prepare for the new season. Daytime temperatures often reach 9-10°C by month’s end.

April

A month of contrasts. Blossoms emerge across Saxon Switzerland, while sudden rain showers give way to moments of golden sun. Castles such as Moritzburg and Colditz look stunning surrounded by fresh greenery, and the vineyards near Radebeul begin to wake. The landscape feels in transition - alive and expectant.

May

Saxony comes into bloom. Parks and palace gardens in Dresden and Pillnitz are full of colour, and the Elbe Cycle Route is in peak condition. Outdoor cafés reappear, and river cruises resume along the Elbe. With highs often reaching 18-20°C, it’s a glorious time for hiking, sightseeing, and soaking in the local rhythm.

June

Early summer feels rich with possibility. Music festivals begin - most famously the Leipzig Bach Festival - while Saxon Switzerland’s sandstone cliffs attract climbers and hikers. The region’s lakes, like Cospudener See near Leipzig, become popular for swimming. Warm, settled weather with highs around 22°C and above makes for long, active days.

July

Summer in Saxony is vibrant and full of life. Beer gardens bustle, festivals light up city squares, and baroque architecture gleams in the sunlight. Cultural events, from open-air opera in Dresden to folk celebrations in the countryside, keep the calendar packed. Highs in the mid-20s°C make it ideal for both city strolls and mountain escapes.

August

The warmth continues, with forest walks, castle visits, and vineyard tours all in their prime. Families enjoy steam train rides through the Ore Mountains, and Saxony’s lakes offer an escape from the heat. With fewer crowds in cities like Görlitz and Zittau, it’s a great month to explore lesser-known corners of the region.

September

Harvest season begins, and the vineyards along the Elbe are alive with activity. Wine festivals bring a festive spirit to towns like Radebeul and Meißen, while early autumn colours begin to touch the hills. Days are still warm - often around 19-21°C - and golden light adds a softness to every view.

October

Saxony glows with autumn colour. The forests of Saxon Switzerland are ablaze with red and gold, while crisp days invite scenic drives and peaceful hikes. Dresden’s palaces look magnificent against the changing leaves, and chestnuts and pumpkins appear in market stalls. Highs cool to around 13-15°C, perfect for slow travel.

November

A quiet, reflective month. Morning mists curl along the Elbe, and the cities take on a romantic, introspective air. Museums and concert halls fill with life, and the chill in the air invites long dinners and historic inn stays. Some mountain areas may see the first dusting of snow, and daytime highs fall to around 7-9°C.

December

Saxony becomes a winter wonderland. Its Christmas markets - especially in Dresden and Leipzig - are among the oldest and most atmospheric in Germany. The scent of gingerbread and mulled wine drifts through cobbled squares, and the snowy backdrop of the Ore Mountains completes the picture. Expect highs around 2-5°C and a deep festive spirit everywhere you go.

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