Under $100: Dresden

Situated on the valley of the River Elbe near the Czech Republic border is Germany’s Saxony capital city of Dresden. The beautiful city has a long history as the capital and royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony, and its regal past makes it way into the present with stunning historic architecture, museums and other important cultural institutions.

The city’s architecture exemplifies grand splendor, representing Renaissance, Historicism and Modernism, and the city’s dramatic Baroque and Rococo styles earned Dresden the nickname Jewel Box.

The Dresden Castle, made up of several design styles, was the seat of the royal household from 1485. Today, it houses several exhibits and the Green Vault, containing the largest collection of treasures in Europe. All can be seen for around €20. Across the road is the Zwinger Palace, a center for royal art collections known for its impressive main gate and moat. Entry is around €10 and it’s well worth the visit for art and history lovers.

Other landmarks to visit that can be appreciated from the outside for no cost include Brühl’s Terrace, the Pillnitz Castle, Hofkirche church and Frauenkirche, said to be the greatest cupola building in Central and Northern Europe.

Amongst Dresden’s stunning architecture are some great bars, from high-end cocktail bars to beer gardens and nightclubs — all serving affordable, delicious local beers including Radeberger, and wines including Riesling, Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder and Müller-Thurgau. The average cost of a beer in Dresden is around €3, and wine is usually around €4.

For a great cup of coffee and a cheap bite to eat in the morning or for lunch, stop in Dresdner Kaffeestudbchen or Café Milchmadchen. One of the most popular spots among locals for lunch is Curry 24, an authentic Germany fast food-like establishment where you’ll likely wait in line, but the food is worth it. For a delicious, moderately priced dinner head to PulverTurm an der Frauenkirche or Augustiner an der Frauenkirche — both serving authentic German and Eastern European fare for around €7 for a hearty helping.

Dresden is a small city, easily traversed by foot, allowing you to save money and take in the sights along the way. If you opt for a taxi, you’ll only pay around €3 per ride, and for a one-way bus ticket, you’re looking at only a little more than €2.