This calm spa town in Saxon Switzerland sits along the Elbe River, with thermal springs and hiking trails leading into the sandstone cliffs of Elbe Valley.
Bad Schandau sits along the Elbe River in Saxon Switzerland, where sandstone mountains rise above the water. You can ride the narrow-gauge tram through the Kirnitzsch valley, soak in salt pools at the Toskana Thermal Baths, or take an art nouveau elevator 50 meters up to explore the Ostrau district. In the town's botanical garden, you'll find rare orchids and alpine plants among more than 1,500 species.
Getting to Bad Schandau
Direct trains connect Bad Schandau to Dresden (40 minutes), Berlin, and Prague. The European Sleeper night train runs from Brussels, making the town accessible from Western Europe. From the station, take the passenger ferry across the Elbe to reach the town center, or use the road bridge.
Unique Transportation Systems
The Kirnitzschtal Tramway has run since 1898, taking you from the town center through the valley to Lichtenhain Waterfall. The 1904 art nouveau lift carries passengers between the town and the Ostrau district above. Both transport options let you see the surrounding sandstone cliffs and forest valleys during your journey.
Wellness and Spa Facilities
At the Toskana Thermal Baths, you can swim in saltwater pools and recover after hiking. The town received its "Bad" (spa) title in 1920 and became the first Kneipp spa in Saxony, where you can try traditional water therapy treatments. The wellness center includes massage rooms, saunas, and steam baths.
Natural Surroundings and Activities
The Saxon Switzerland National Park starts at the edge of town. Walking paths connect to the Schrammsteine rock formations and wind through the Kirnitzsch valley. The 3,500-square-meter Botanical Garden has paths leading through different ecological zones, where you can see regional wildflowers and mountain plants alongside Mediterranean species.
Historical Buildings
St John's Lutheran Church has stood since 1679, with its octagonal tower visible throughout town. The Sieben-Brüder-Häuser (Seven Brothers Houses) represent local timber-frame building techniques from the 18th century. Along the Elbe riverfront, grand hotels from the 1890s line the promenade, dating from when Bad Schandau first became a resort town.
Guest Pass Benefits
Your accommodation will give you the Saxon Switzerland Guest Pass when you check in. This card covers all public transport within the region and includes discounts at many sites. You can use buses, trains, and ferries in the Saxon Switzerland area at no extra cost, though you'll need additional tickets for bikes and pets.
