Copy it into your account, move it to your own dates and make it yours — swap stops, change the pace, add days.
Free account, no credit card. Copying, moving and adjusting are included.
Arrival and exploring the old town
A relaxed arrival day: just one train journey and a short stroll through the old town.
You can leave your luggage in a locker at Dresden Hauptbahnhof if you'd like to explore the old town unencumbered.
This is where your journey begins. Trains run hourly to Dresden from Europe's largest terminus station.
The baroque Zwinger, with its courtyards, fountains and the Kronentor gate, makes a great first stop within walking distance of the Hauptbahnhof. Children can run around the wide courtyards, admire the carillon made of Meissen porcelain and hunt for the many statues.
The rebuilt Frauenkirche is the city's landmark and tells a powerful story of destruction and reconciliation. Climbing up to the dome is well worth it with children, for the panoramic view over the old town and the Elbe.
See tickets on Tiqets(affiliate link)
A family-run guesthouse in the spa town of Bad Schandau, an easy walk from the Bad Schandau S-Bahn station and the Elbe ferry. From here, you'll be able to reach all the walking areas over the coming days easily by local transport and ferry.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
The classic, with the most famous view of them all
Set off early to avoid the biggest crowds at the Basteibrücke.
Bring sturdy walking shoes and plenty of water; there are places to stop for refreshments along the way at the Bastei.
The Basteibrücke spans a dizzying height between the sandstone towers above the Elbe valley, offering what is probably the most famous view in Saxon Switzerland. Children are captivated by the vertical rock needles, and the circular route is well maintained.
The largest rock castle in Saxon Switzerland leads via walkways and steps through narrow rock clefts to former defensive positions and viewing platforms. For children, it's an adventure complete with castle history, replica catapults and thrilling views down below.
The car-free spa village of Rathen sits picturesquely at the foot of the Bastei and can only be reached by a cable ferry across the Elbe. It's a good spot for a rest by the water before heading back to the S-Bahn.
Rocky ridges and ladders above the Elbe valley
The ladders and iron rungs require sure-footedness; the path can be slippery when wet.
For younger or less confident walkers, there's an easier approach without the via ferrata sections.
Ladders, steps and narrow paths lead up to the Schrammstein ridge, with one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region. The climb via the Wildschützensteig is adventurous but manageable for sure-footed children aged around eight and up.
The small passenger and car ferry connects Bad Schandau with the right bank of the Elbe and is the starting point for many walks. For children, even the short crossing is already a little highlight.
Across the border to Europe's largest rock arch
An identity card is sufficient for the border crossing - remember to bring ID for the children too.
Payment in the Czech Republic is in koruna; a little cash for small amounts is handy, though card payment is often accepted too.
The Czech border village of Hřensko lies deep in the Elbe valley at the foot of tall sandstone walls. From here, the climb to the Prebischtor begins, and the village itself has market stalls and simple places to eat.
The Prebischtor is the largest natural rock arch in Europe and a striking landmark of Bohemian Switzerland. Beside the rock arch stands the historic excursion lodge Sokolí hnízdo, with viewing terraces looking out over the forested sandstone mountains.
Castle history high above the Elbe
A quieter day with plenty to see, a good choice after the demanding walking days.
There are places to eat and shady spots for a longer break at the fortress.
The vast hilltop fortress sits atop a table mountain 240 metres above the Elbe and was never conquered. Children can discover Saxony's deepest well, historic cannons, casemates and a panoramic path with far-reaching views across the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
The small town at the foot of the fortress sits right on the Elbe and invites a rest by the water. From here you can take the fortress express bus or walk the short path up.
One last rock arch and the journey home
A shorter walk in the morning, so the journey home stays relaxed.
Leave your luggage at the guesthouse beforehand or take it with you; the return journey from Bad Schandau via Dresden to Leipzig takes around two and a half to three hours.
Book discounted fares for the return journey to Leipzig early - with children, the railway's family travel offer is good value.
The Kuhstall is the second-largest rock arch in Saxon Switzerland and is reached via the legendary Himmelsleiter, a narrow rock stairway. From the viewing platform, you'll look far into the Kirnitzschtal, and the path there begins with a ride on the historic Kirnitzschtalbahn through the forest.
The historic tram runs from Bad Schandau through the narrow Kirnitzschtal all the way to the Lichtenhainer Wasserfall. The leisurely ride through the forest makes a lovely finale for children, and there's a spot for a short break at the waterfall.
Your journey home begins at Bahnhof Bad Schandau on the right bank of the Elbe. You'll travel back to Leipzig via Dresden.
Copy it and move it to your own dates.
Free account, no credit card. Copying, moving and adjusting are included.