Dresden

Dresden is the capital of the German state of Saxony and is beautifully situated on the Elbe River, close to the border with the Czech Republic. The city is known for its rich history, Baroque architecture, art treasures and its reconstruction after World War II. Dresden is a city with a strong cultural identity. It has world-class art collections, festivals, classical music, opera and a vibrant contemporary art scene. The city is also home to several universities, including the Technische Universität Dresden, which is an important research centre. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including Saxon Switzerland – a unique natural area with dramatic sandstone cliffs, perfect for hiking and climbing. In addition, there are vineyards along the slopes of the Elbe and charming small towns such as Meissen and Pirna nearby.