Tour the Volkswagen (VW) Transparent Factory in Dresden
Tour the Volkswagen (VW) Transparent Factory in Dresden
Fortunately we were able to go behind the scenes and see everything from where potential owners get to pick out the details of their Phaeton, to where the cars are built and polished. The tour gives you a glimpse into this fascinating world and makes you appreciate the time and dedication that goes into a car created by Volkswagen. By the end of your tour at the Transparent Factory or the Gläserne Manufaktur you will want to be part of the VW family. Check out our experience and photos below!
Our Favorite Parts & Notes
It's for architectural enthusiasts. From outside you see a massive building, set in a beautiful park that is entirely built of glass and surrounded by trees. As you walk closer you still have no idea that you're about to enter a car factory. Once you step inside, every wall, every detail is meant to arouse your senses. The glass facade seems like a blurred wall, as the elements of the environment are so flawlessly integrated. Everywhere you look is an interesting detail and something not to be missed.
Innovation. Sitting outside the entrance was a beautiful, sleek, silver, sporty looking car that caused us both to do a double take. We came to learn that it was the XL1, the world's most fuel-efficient car, getting 290 mpg. It is limited to 200 cars, has a price tag of $138,000 USD, and is not for sale in the US — our picture doesn't do this beauty justice.
The Vehicle Tower. Once the Phaeton is complete, it is stored in the factory's massive circular Vehicle Tower, which rises 40 meters into the sky. Of course it's completely transparent, so passers-by can enjoy the view as well.
Awesome work environment. From the Canadian maple floors, which make it feel more like a museum than a factory, to the views and natural light, every aspect of the building was developed with the employees in mind.
Built in the center of Dresden, the building had the intention of merging culture with technology. They didn't want to be hidden away, and instead made the bold move to be front and center, demand attention, and ultimately give back to the city of Dresden. Doubling as a unique event space, the Transparent Factory has hosted jazz concerts, the New York Philharmonic, and concerts on the veranda. They are close friends with the city's cultural icons and view their factory as a destination to be seen.
Great customer lounge. Potential buyers can pick out details for their cars, relax, and enjoy views of the park in this space.
The Transparent Factory is meant to be a piece of art, not just a production line. They want to reveal their methods and passion to everyone, locals and tourists alike. The whole experience makes you feel special and really makes you want to be part of this world.
"Volkswagen combined the construction of the factory and its idea of a new luxury class car, manufactured with the aim of linking innovative automobile construction to the traditional values of manufactories, while making a communicative event out of the building's open transparent architecture."
Book things to do in Dresden
See tours, tickets and experiences with free cancellation on most bookings.
See tours & ticketsWe may earn a commission if you book through this link.