Dresden → Pillnitz Palace Park by public transport

Last Update: May 2026

Pillnitz Palace is one of the most relaxed places to visit in Dresden. Located directly on the Elbe river, the former summer residence of the Saxon kings combines historic architecture with a large park and a calm atmosphere. Unlike many sights in Dresden’s old town, Pillnitz feels more open and less busy – especially on weekdays, it is a great place for a walk along the river and through the palace gardens.

Pillnitz Castle, Credits: kanpoan.net

Getting to Pillnitz Palace by Bus 63

Bus line 63 connects western Dresden directly with Pillnitz. It runs from Dresden-Löbtau across the city all the way to Pillnitz Palace. During the day, it operates frequently – usually every 10 minutes on weekdays and Saturdays, and every 15 minutes on Sundays. In the evening, it runs less often, roughly every 15 to 30 minutes.

From your starting point, first take a suitable connection to Schillerplatz using the Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe (DVB). You will need to change there to bus line 63 towards Pillnitz. Tram lines 6 and 12 also stop directly at Schillerplatz.

The easiest option is to buy a one day pass for Dresden’s public transport system (€9.50) .It covers all transfers as well as both outbound and return journeys.

Schillerplatz stop is located close to the Blaues Wunder bridge. At the departure boards, you can check the next buses of line 63 towards Pillnitz.

For a nicer view during the ride, it is recommended to sit on the right side in the direction of travel. This gives you a good view of the Elbe valley along the way.

The ride from Schillerplatz to Pillnitz takes about 20 minutes. The road follows the Elbe river through several small villages and is partly narrow and winding, so the bus ride can feel a bit bumpy at times.

Get off at the “Pillnitzer Platz” stop. From there, it is about an 8-minute easy walk to the entrance of Schloss Pillnitz.

Return to Dresden

Alternatively, you can take a short detour via the Elbe river ferry. Near Pillnitz, a passenger ferry crosses to the other side of the river. [lat: 51.010833,lon: 13.864194] From there, it is about a 7-minute walk to the “Freystraße” tram stop, where you can take trams back to Dresden.