Chilled

Karl May Bar
Scenes of Karl May's Wild West adventures add a dash of rawhide to the otherwise sophisticated surrounds of the Karl May Bar at Kempinski Dresden. With its intimate lighting, dark oak panelling and crimson leather banquettes, this is a genteel spot for conversing over an expertly mixed cocktail or whisky (there are 100 to choose from). Live jazz swings the bar into action on Friday and Saturday nights.

Address: 3 Taschenberg | Telephone: 0351 491 2720 |

Hebeda's
An original GDR-style bar where bushy beards and oversized glasses meet nine-to-fivers. Irony and sincerity are united by cheap beer, 1970s' deco and modern beats.

Address: 30 Rothenburger Strasse | Telephone: 0351 895 1010 |

Clubbing

Shamrock
For the craic in Dresden, it has to be Shamrock. A no-airs-and-graces pub in the classic Irish mould, this watering hole has Guinness and Kilkenny on tap, big-screen sports, bar snacks and a roster of upbeat event including live music at weekends and regular whiskey tastings. Punters spill into the beer garden in the warmer months.

Address: 1 Kleine Br | Telephone: 0351 486 5935 |

Club Mensa
This on-campus disco is open every Saturday and last Friday of every month, and the prices and music make it the social capital of Dresden's student scene.

Address: 1 Reichenbachstr. | Telephone: 0351 462 2620 |