I will visit the Christmas Market in Dresden with a friend December 14 & 15. Any recommendations for lodging for one night? I like airbnb but didn't see anything perfect. I do not like large, new, chain hotels, but prefer smaller, quaint, local. I do want to be near the old town center and Christmas Market. Convenient to the train station were we arrive would be nice also.
Please also share any favorite local eaterys and "not to be missed" sight in our short time there.
Děkuji moc 😊
I do not like large, new, chain hotels
You may have to go with international chains in Dresden, because that's really all there is in the Neumarkt area, which is the completely rebuilt "old town center". I didn't do a thorough survey, but all the hotels here appeared to be business and luxury class. I stayed at the Steigenberger der Saxe and found it very nice, if not exactly cheap. If you want something cheaper, you'll have to go further towards the Hauptbahnhof. The shopping promenade between the Hauptbahnhof and Neumarkt has several hotels, although they're all chains, mostly budget. Don't expect quaint, Old World boutique hotels, they're all modern (as are all of the surroundings).
Please also share any favorite local eaterys Depends on what you mean exactly by "local". Keep in mind that virtually no business in the rebuilt center is more than 10-20 years old. The best meal I had in Dresden was, surprisingly, at a Canadian-themed restaurant (Ontario-Canadian Steakhouse). I ate a so-so meal at Freiberger Schankhaus, a more traditional-ish Saxon restaurant next to the Steigenberger. I had a better traditional-ish Saxon meal at the Sächisch-Böhmisch Bierhaus-Altmarktkeller, which I think is right next to where they probably hold the Christmas market.
Although you don't like "chain hotels", if it's only for one night I'd probably look for the most convenient location. If you're out looking at the Christmas markets, you'll only be spending minimal time in the hotel anyway.
I stayed at the InterCity Hotel on my last visit, and would certainly recommend it. The room was very modern and comfortable, they served a nice breakfast and it's right across the street from the main station. Although it's not in the old town centre, there's a Tram stop right outside the hotel and as I recall, they provide a transit pass with the room.
Same hotel suggestion as Ken. All I do in a hotel is sleep there, so it doesn't matter to me if it is a chain or not. The front desk was very friendly and helpful with maps and directions, and the location next to the Hbf is nice. The beds and showers are great and getting the transportation ticket is a plus.
