GERMANY
DRESDEN
Dresden dazzles with baroque architecture, world‑class museums, and riverside beauty. Rebuilt after wartime destruction, it shines today as a cultural and artistic powerhouse.
Dresden, the capital city of Saxony in eastern Germany, is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and picturesque setting along the banks of the Elbe River. Often called the "Florence on the Elbe," Dresden dazzles visitors with its beautifully restored Baroque and Rococo city center, much of which was painstakingly rebuilt after devastating bombings during World War II while under Soviet control. Iconic landmarks include the Frauenkirche, a magnificent domed church that symbolizes the city's resilience, and the Zwinger Palace, home to world-class art collections and elegant gardens. The Semper Opera House attracts music lovers with its historic performances and architectural grandeur. Dresden is also a hub for innovation and learning, hosting prestigious universities and research institutes. Its museums, such as the Green Vault and the Old Masters Picture Gallery, boast priceless treasures and masterpieces. The city's vibrant festivals, lively riverbanks, and charming neighborhoods offer a unique blend of history and modernity. Surrounded by the scenic Saxon Switzerland National Park, Dresden provides easy access to breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a compelling destination for both culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Despite its turbulent history, Dresden stands today as a symbol of renewal, creativity, and enduring beauty.
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Culture & History
DRESDEN: FOOD & LODGING
We stayed at the Relais Chateau Hotel Bulow , which didn't meet our expectations compared to the Andaz Prague. It was somewhat disappointing, as we've previously enjoyed other Relais Chateau hotels, but this one could use a bit of refreshing. We discovered a fantastic bakery just half a block from the hotel called Elias . The bread and pastries were excellent. Starting the day with a sourdough baguette, serrano ham, arugula, and a double shot cappuccino was perfect! Scotty, however, became a...
Culture & History
DRESDEN: HISTORY
If you haven't seen any WWII films, Dresden was completely destroyed by the Allies in 1945. Known as the jewel of Germany, it wasn't particularly significant from a military standpoint, but I believe it was targeted to pressure Germany into surrendering and to prevent leaving an undamaged Dresden for the Russians. Our guide, who grew up in the GDR (East Germany) under communism, wasn't overly critical of it but appreciates now having six parties to vote for now, compared to just one under the...
Culture & History
DRESDEN: MEISSEN FACTORY & MARITZBURG
Another day trip to consider is to the Meissen Factory to see how their porcelain is created and decorated. I now understand why they charge what they charge, because it is labor intensive, and all done by hand. Remarkably, we came away from the museum store with nothing but pictures and no tzotchkes. From there we went to Maritzburg, an old hunting palace built by none other than August II. It is known for its many mounted stag heads (no comment), a bed that was decorated by feathers which...
Culture & History
DRESDEN: ART SCENE
The artwork from the Old Masters Gallery was relocated to safety during the war and returned afterward. The collection is extensive, but their centerpiece is Raphael’s famous Sistine Madonna, known for the little angels at the bottom that we've all seen countless times on holiday cards. Below are just a few of the many paintings we viewed including works by Rafael, Vermeer, Rembrandt, Correggio, and Tizian. SISTINE MADONNA BY RAFAEL We also visited the Albertinum which houses a collection of...
Culture & History
DRESDEN: NOT SWITZERLAND SAXONY
If you desire to get out of town and see the country, this is a nice day trip. We took the train to an area they refer to as Not Switzerland Saxony where they have rock formations out of sandstone which reminded me of Sedona but surrounded by verdant forests instead of desert. When we got back into town, we visited their main concert hall, the Palace of Culture , which was built under the communists and was surprisingly beautiful in a mid-century modern way. The murals inside screamed...
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