Dresden
Described as the “Florence of the North,” the picturesque city of Dresden boasts stunning architecture. As well as host of world-class museums and the stylish bars. This sprawling metropolis stems from its emergence as a thriving cultural hub at the turn of the 20th century. Its creative lure continues to attract and inspire artists, poets, writers and philosophers to this day.
Explore the quaint alleyways and discover the impressive baroque structures that influenced the writings of the Romantic Movement. The art world has also had an intimate association with Dresden and is reflected in the College of Fine Arts. Admire the impressive collections of classical works in the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden. As well as twenty five private galleries featuring a thriving scene of contemporary art.
Dresden has not lost touch with its affection for the arts and each year plays host to several important festivals. The most famous of which is the Dresden Music Festival, the largest of its kind in Germany. It is also the setting for the International Film festival celebrating documentaries, short films and animation. The influence of the film festival in Dresden carries so much weight it goes a long way to promoting artists that are largely neglected by cinemas and television networks.
Rebuilding the city
Dresden was virtually flattened during the Second World War, but in the latter half of the 20th century it has been restored to its former glory. Its iconic buildings include the spectacular Zwinger and the Hofkirche. But the jewel in Dresden’s crown is undoubtedly the exquisite Frauenkirche. It is a potent symbol representing the determination shown by the city folk after the inexplicable destruction caused by Allied forces.
There are no shortage of places to eat in Dresden with a plethora of bars, restaurants and cafés offering sumptuous meals at very reasonable prices. If you are not enamoured by German cuisine there are plenty of recipes from all around the world to tempt your appetite and of course, delicious German ales are on tap just about everywhere you go.
Travelling to Dresden by Ferry
Although Germany does have some coastline, Dresden is a long way away from it. It’s actually the most eastern of all Germany’s major cities. In fact it is closer to Poland and the Czech Republic that it any other major German city.
Taking the ferry Dresden will inevitably require some driving or a train journey. There are no ferries to Germany from the UK. More than likely you will go via Holland, Denmark, Belgium or France. There is no direct trains to Dresden from any of the ports, though you’ll get from Amsterdam with just one change.