Dresden: A Quick Stop

We will be traveling from Berlin to Prague by bus. On the way we will be making a stop in Dresden. Our tour director will arrange for a guided walking tour of the city. We will probably also have time for a bit of shopping and lunch.



Dresden has a long history as the capital and royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony.

The city stretches out on both sides of the Elbe River and is embedded in the foothills of the mountains. The Elbe River snakes its way through the city with a length of 30 kilometers. Nine bridges provide crossing points throughout the city. With 62 percent of its area covered by forest and green space, Dresden is one of the greenest cities in Europe.



The historical centre of Dresden is located on the left bank of the Elbe, at the peak of a graceful river bend. Protected for centuries by mighty fortifications, the Saxon capital developed splendour and activity. The city was known as the Jewel Box, because of its baroque and rococo city centre.



In spite of vast destruction during the Second World War, the Old City part of Dresden has preserved or regained fascinating ensembles. The most famous symbol of reconstruction in the city centre is the Dresden Frauenkirche Church, the magnificent baroque dome, which already today dominates the city centre. Many important cultural institutions are situated along the Old City-side of the Elbe banks: from the Old Masters Picture Gallery to the Green Vault, the treasure chamber of the Saxon electors and kings. Shopping and restaurants are also located around the Altmarkt Square and Prager Strasse Shopping Centres.