Tourism.

The Elbe and the gently rolling landscape between Saxon Switzerland and Meissen determine the nature in which the city on the river is embedded. The climate is equally beneficial for the development of the arts and for viniculture. The inhabitants are known for their own special charm, Saxon hospitality is proverbial. At the same time Dresden is a modern city with the flair of the former Saxon residence – simply a place with life style. Many million guests visit Dresden every year.

Dresden offers attractions in great variety. No book about the history of architecture can miss mentioning the Dresden Zwinger. The Frauenkirche Church, Semper Opera House and Royal Palace as well as many other historical monuments and ensembles determine the image of the city. The saucy angels from Raphael’s “The Sistine Madonna” make publicity for Dresden’s art collections in the whole world. Magnificent promenades on the bank of the Elbe, interesting museums and institutions, industrial monuments, charming details — Dresden has a lot for you to discover.

The Frauenkirche at Dresden

Among the most famous sights are Dresden's old city on the left banks of the river Elbe where you will find the historical center with Zwinger, Frauenkirche, Opera. On the right side of the river Elbe you may experience fascinating variety - baroque street blocks, monumental government buildings and the centre of colourful alternative culture. A magnificent landscape along the Elbe is an invitation to cultural enjoyment and relaxation. Besides, oberserving towers offer an unforgettable view of Dresden and its surrounding area.

The former residence of the Wettin dynasty is a city of art and culture with magnificent buildings, many museums of world class as well as venues and ensembles with a rich tradition of theatrical and musical history. The Saxon State Orchestra cultivates Dresden's high reputation as a metropolis of opera at the historical site of the Semper Opera House. Another three ensembles of world renown represent Dresden's great musical history: the Saxon State Opera, the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra and the Dresden Kreuzchor boys' choir. The Zwinger is home to the famous "Old Masters" art gallery and to the largest porcelain collection in the world. The former royal jewel collection in the "Green Vault" on the Brühl Terrace is also well-known throughout the world. Dresden's reputation as a top European city of art has to a great extent been formed by the work of visual artists.At the moment, there are about 600 visual artists working in Dresden. They show their works in numerous galleries.

A comprehensive city guide is available here: www.dresden.de.
Further information on tours offered in and around Dresden can be found here.