Dresden

Dresden, the capital of Saxony, lies along the River Elbe and is known for its historic centre, meticulously rebuilt after the destruction of 1945. Landmarks include the Frauenkirche, the Zwinger Palace, the Semperoper opera house and the Brühl's Terrace, which offers views over the river. Dresden Castle houses the Green Vault, one of Europe's richest treasure collections, while the Old Masters Picture Gallery holds an impressive array of classical paintings. The Neustadt district, more bohemian in character, is home to bars, independent shops and a lively nightlife scene. The city is also known for its Christmas market, the Striezelmarkt, regarded as one of Germany's oldest, and for Stollen, the traditional festive fruit cake. Nearby, the Saxon Switzerland region offers walking trails among distinctive sandstone rock formations, while the town of Meissen, famed for its porcelain, is a short train ride away. The climate is temperate continental, with mild summers and cool winters, making the city's architectural and cultural heritage worth exploring throughout the year.