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If you have done the things to do in Germany, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Dessau.
Discovering Dessau is like opening a treasure chest, where each experience is a precious gem waiting to be unearthed.
From exploring its centuries-old architecture to the vibrant and colorful art scene, life in this city is a never-ending adventure.
Join me as we dive deeper into the charming world of Dessau and unlock its hidden gems.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Dessau:
1. Bauhaus Dessau
A historic building complex in Dessau, Germany that housed the Bauhaus School of Design from 1925-1932.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the iconic Bauhaus building and learn about the history of the renowned school of design. Explore the nearby Masters’ Houses, which were designed and built by some of the school’s most famous faculty members.
Don’t miss: The impressive collection of furniture, ceramics, and other design objects on display at the Bauhaus Museum Dessau. Also, be sure to check out the outdoor sculpture garden and the experimental houses built by Bauhaus students.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and allow plenty of time to explore the entire complex. Be sure to check the hours of the different buildings and plan accordingly.
Consider renting a bike to explore the area around the Bauhaus.
2. The Anhaltisches Theater Dessau
The Anhaltisches Theater Dessau is a historic theater located in the city of Dessau in Germany.
The theater has a rich history dating back to the 18th century and has been rebuilt multiple times since its inception.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of stage performances including opera, plays, ballet and musicals at the theater. The theater has a seating capacity of over 700 people, providing a unique experience to those who attend.
Don’t Miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the impressive architecture and intricate details of the theater. The building’s façade features neoclassical and art nouveau elements, making it a stunning sight to see.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to explore the theater before your show. Additionally, consider purchasing tickets in advance to guarantee your seat.
3. Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm
UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a collection of interconnected landscaped gardens, parks, and palaces in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk through the impressive gardens and parks, visit the various palaces and architectural landmarks, and explore the numerous artworks and sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.
Don’t miss: The Wörlitz Palace, which features a stunning interior filled with intricate 18th-century décor, and the English-style gardens of the Georgium Palace, which offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes, as the garden realm covers a vast area. Consider visiting during the summer months to enjoy the beautiful gardens in full bloom.
Make sure to also check out some of the lesser-known attractions, such as the stunning Gothic House, which is surrounded by a moat and features a collection of medieval artifacts.
4. Oranienbaum Palace and Park
Oranienbaum Palace and Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Dessau, Germany. It was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the princes of Anhalt-Dessau.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning palace and its manicured gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The palace has been beautifully restored and features a mix of baroque and rococo architectural styles.
Don’t miss the elaborate ceiling frescoes and intricate wood carvings throughout the palace.
Don’t miss: The Chinese Tea House is a must-see attraction in the park. This exotic pavilion was built in 1794 and features intricate Chinese-style paintings and decor.
The Tea House is also home to a collection of Chinese porcelain and other decorative arts.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting the park and palace early in the morning is recommended to avoid the crowds.
5. Moses Mendelssohn Center for European-Jewish Studies
The Moses Mendelssohn Center for European-Jewish Studies provides insight into Jewish history, culture, and religion in Europe.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend lectures, seminars, and exhibitions on Jewish culture and history. The center also hosts conferences and workshops on issues related to Jewish studies.
Don’t miss: Take a tour of the historic building and learn about the life and achievements of Moses Mendelssohn, the 18th-century philosopher and scholar who advocated for Jewish emancipation.
Insider travel tips:
6. Hugo Junkers Technical Museum
The Hugo Junkers Technical Museum in Dessau is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Hugo Junkers, a German engineer and aircraft designer.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the history of aircraft engineering and technology through interactive exhibits, including early engine models and original aircraft. The museum showcases a collection of over 6,000 exhibits, which include airplanes, bicycles, and HVAC systems.
Don’t miss: The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of Hugo Junkers, who is considered to be one of the most influential engineers of the 20th century.
Some of the highlights of the museum include the Ju 52 and Ju 88 aircraft and the engine room exhibit.
Insider travel tips:
7. Schloss Georgium
A neoclassical palace built in the 18th century located in Dessau, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the lavish interior rooms of the palace, which feature opulent decorations and furnishings from the time period. Surrounding the palace is a beautiful landscaped garden with water features and sculptures.
Don’t miss: The elaborate ceiling frescoes in the palace’s main ballroom and the collection of fine art and antiques on display throughout the building.
Insider travel tips: Check the palace’s website for information on special events, such as concerts or art exhibitions, that may be taking place during your visit.
Also be sure to stroll through the gardens and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
8. Marienkirche
Marienkirche is a historic Lutheran church located in the city of Dessau, Germany.
What to see or do: The Marienkirche boasts of an impressive Gothic architecture, with its impressive brick exterior and intricate interior design. Visitors can marvel at the beautiful stained glass windows, fine paintings, and well-preserved sculptures that surround the church.
The church also has impressive chapels where visitors can take a moment of reflection and appreciation for the place.
Don’t miss: One should not miss climbing the church’s bell tower to get a panoramic view of the city and to appreciate the church’s magnificent design from above.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should note that Marienkirche occasionally conducts organ concerts on weekends, which is a unique experience not to miss. Also, the church is located near the popular town center and is accessible by public transportation.
9. City Museum Dessau
City Museum Dessau is a fascinating museum located in the German city of Dessau.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the city’s history, with permanent exhibitions on the Reformation and Martin Luther, as well as the history of Dessau’s textile industry.
Visitors can also learn about the city’s famous Bauhaus architecture through special exhibitions.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the reconstructed 19th-century weaving mill, which features working looms and demonstrations of the weaving process. Also, check out the Martin Luther exhibition, which features original documents and rare artifacts from the Reformation.
Insider travel tips: – There is a café inside the museum where you can enjoy a coffee and cake break.
10. The Dessau Masters’ Houses
The Dessau Masters’ Houses are a group of homes built during the 1920s as the official residence for the directors of the Bauhaus school and their families.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the homes and see the unique designs created by some of the most influential architects of the 20th century.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the iconic House Gropius, designed by Walter Gropius himself, and the House Klee, designed by Paul Klee.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and get a more intimate experience with the architecture.
Also, be sure to check out the nearby Bauhaus Dessau Foundation for more information on the history of the Bauhaus movement and its impact on modern design.
11. Zoological Garden Dessau
The Zoologischer Garten Dessau is a zoo located in the city of Dessau-Roßlau, Germany.
What to see or do: The zoo houses a large variety of animals from around the world including elephants, giraffes, tigers, lions, bears, seals, and many more.
Visitors can observe the animals in their natural habitats, learn about their behaviors, and even participate in animal feeding sessions.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions in the zoo is the “African savannah” section where visitors can view a variety of African animals including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least a few hours at the zoo in order to fully explore all the different animal exhibits.
12. St Peter and Paul Church
St Peter and Paul Church is a historic church located in Dessau, Germany. It was built in the late 19th century and is one of the largest churches in the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the impressive Neo-Romanesque architecture of the church, which is adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and a stunning altar.
The interior of the church is also notable for its vaulted ceilings and impressive organ.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower of the church for a spectacular view of the city. The tower rises nearly 70 meters and offers panoramic views of Dessau and the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – The church is open to visitors on weekdays and Sundays, but check the schedule for any special events or services.
13. The Junkers Factory
Historical industrial building that used to be an aircraft factory.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour to learn about the history of aviation and the production of warplanes during World War II. Visitors can see authentic aircraft parts, engines, and original blueprints from the 1920s and 30s on display at the site.
Don’t miss: The circular airplane assembly hangar, which was once the largest unsupported steel structure in the world.
Insider travel tips: Book a tour in advance to secure your spot and maximize your visit. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk and climb stairs.
Check out the nearby Bauhaus Dessau Foundation and the Masters’ Houses, which were designed by famous artists and architects of the Bauhaus movement.
14. The River Mulde
A popular river in the city of Dessau in Germany.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or take a stroll along the riverbanks to admire the picturesque scenery.
There are also several parks and green areas that offer a perfect spot for a picnic or relaxing in the sun.
Don’t miss: Visit the famous Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features several beautiful gardens and palaces located along the river.
You can also explore the nearby Marienkirche, an old church with an impressive interior.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and spend a day by the river; it’s the perfect way to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe to explore the river and surrounding areas. Also, be sure to check the weather beforehand as some activities may be affected by heavy rainfall or flooding.
15. Market Square
The Market Square is a historical center of Dessau, Germany that has been a vibrant location of the city since the 14th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the square surrounded by historic buildings, take some stunning images of their Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance architecture, and the statue of the famous German composer Johann Sebastian Bach at the heart of the square.
Don’t miss: An unmissable event at the square is the weekly farmer’s markets where you can grab local produce, discover handcrafted items, and traditional street food.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the Market Square in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photography.
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