If you’re looking for a stunning natural wonder in Europe but don’t want to break the bank, Bastei Bridge in Germany should be on your radar. It’s nestled in the heart of Saxon Switzerland National Park (don’t let the name fool you—it’s still in Germany!). This rock formation & stone bridge offer some of the most dramatic views in Europe. And the best part? It’s totally free to visit!

What Makes Bastei Bridge Special?

The Bastei, a series of sandstone pillars, rises over 194 metres (636 feet) above the Elbe River. This creates a surreal landscape that looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel. In 1851, a stone bridge was built to connect these rocky peaks, thus giving visitors easy access to some of the most spectacular vantage points in the area. 

It’s no wonder that this place has been a favourite of painters and photographers for centuries! 

How to Get There

About an hour's drive from Dresden, Bastei Bridge is quite easy to get to, making it a perfect day trip or stop on your Interrail trip. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also plenty of hiking trails to choose from, winding through forests and offering breathtaking views along the way. Whether you hike up or drive to the nearest parking lot, the walk to the bridge itself should be relatively easy.

Why You’ll Love It

Not only is the bridge itself a marvel of engineering, but the surrounding views are absolutely gorgeous. You can stand on the bridge and gaze out over the Elbe River and the sprawling greenery below, and if you time your visit right, you might even catch a sea of mist drifting through the valleys—which feels absolutely magical! 

Bastei Bridge and the rock formations have inspired numerous writers and artists, including Caspar David Friedrich, with his famous painting "The Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog".

Best Time to Visit

Bastei Bridge is great to see year-round, but autumn is arguably the best time to go. The fall foliage turns the landscape into a fun mix of reds, oranges, and yellows. This tends to make the view more striking. 

Early morning or late afternoon visits also help avoid crowds and give you the chance to catch that beautiful ‘golden hour’. 

Don’t Miss…

While you’re there, we recommend you check out the Neurathen Castle ruins—another free attraction that you’ll find just beyond the bridge. It’s an ancient fortress that’s mostly eroded away, but still offers magnificent views and a little peek into history (if you’re looking for great architecture, we have a whole guide to places we can recommend you check out). 

So, if you’re road-tripping through Germany or just looking for a nice hike with unbeatable views, Bastei Bridge is a must-visit. The best part? It won’t cost you a cent!

Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:

• Bastei Bridge Travel Guide (Saxon Tours)
• Earth Trekkers' Guide to Bastei Bridge 
• GetYourGuide Travel Guide to Bastei Bridge

‍