A Day in Dresden

One day is arguably too little time to see the charming city of Dresden but it is an easy daytrip from Berlin and well worth a visit.

Start off your visit in the central Neumarkt district, destroyed by Allied bombing in World War II. Since then it has been reconstructed in various stages by the Soviets and then post-reunification Germany, and the area makes a fascinating walk for fans of history and architecture. Make a visit to the Zwinger Palace, an 18^th-century landmark that houses various museums — perfect for a rainy day.

Take a stroll along the banks of the Elbe river and visit the Neustadt district, where many fashionable restaurants and bars are to be found. Pop into Rosengarten for lunch looking over the river and the rest of the city. Stay on for a few beers in some of the trendy bars and see some of the younger Dresden residents in their favorite places.

Another cool area to explore is the Baroque quarter, near Alberplatz. Those who are in the market for souvenirs will find plenty of antique shops and boutiques selling trinkets that make perfect gifts. You won’t get to see the whole of this fascinating city in one day, but you will find out enough to make you want to come back again.