Discover Germany: From Berlin’s Techno Clubs to Dresden’s Baroque Masterpieces
Elena Rostova
Senior Travel Writer
The Best of Germany
Germany stands at the crossroads of European history and contemporary art. When planning a trip, travelers often get lost choosing between the financial towers of Frankfurt, the beer halls of Munich, or the romantic castles of the Rhine. However, the ultimate cultural experience lies in bridging the capital city, Berlin, with the historic valley of Dresden.
Berlin: The Pulse of Modern Culture
Berlin is a city defined by its resilience. Walk through the Brandenburg Gate, stand in the shadows of the Berlin Wall's East Side Gallery, or register online to tour the glass dome of the Reichstag Building. In the evening, explore the culinary wonders of Kreuzberg. For foodies, a stop at Curry 36 is essential for a plate of traditional currywurst.
Dresden: The Baroque Phoenix
Just a two-hour train ride south of Berlin lies Dresden, the capital of Saxony. Known as the "Florence on the Elbe," Dresden was almost completely leveled during Allied bombing raids in 1945. Over the last few decades, it has undergone an architectural miracle.
The rebuilt Frauenkirche stands proudly at the center of the Neumarkt square, utilizing charred original stones alongside new sandstone blocks to form a beautiful mosaic of past and present. Nearby, the Zwinger Palace houses some of Europe’s finest collections of porcelain and Old Masters paintings.
How to Plan the Journey
- Transport: Take the Deutsche Bahn (DB) EuroCity train between Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Tickets are as low as €19 when booked in advance.
- Budgeting: Dresden is generally cheaper than Berlin. Plan for an average daily expense of €55 in Dresden and €65 in Berlin.