A Different World, Just Two Hours from Berlin 🚞
Dresden, the baroque jewel of Saxony, is just about two hours away from Berlin by ICE train (Germany’s high-speed train), perfect for a day trip. As soon as we arrived, I felt like I had stepped into another country, with elegant streets lined with graceful baroque architecture. In this post, I’d like to share the highlights of my visit through three perspectives that stayed with me: architecture, art, and food.
Just before this trip, a friend in Japan happened to send me a Japanese novel titled Kakumei Zenya (The Eve of Revolution) by Shinobu Suga. Set in Dresden before the fall of the Berlin Wall, the story inspired me to learn more about the city’s past. What struck me most was the devastation Dresden suffered during World War II.
When I finally visited, I was amazed to see how beautifully the city had been rebuilt—so much so that it’s hard to believe it was once in ruins. Thinking of the immense effort that must have gone into its reconstruction, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of respect for those who brought it back to life.
1. The Old Town: Full of Baroque Grandeur and History
Zwinger Palace 🏰
Built in the early 18th century under Augustus the Strong, Zwinger is one of the finest examples of German baroque architecture. Its ornate façades and spacious inner courtyard left a lasting impression. On sunny days, it’s a perfect place to stroll and relax ☀️. Today, it also houses museums and a porcelain collection worth visiting.
Frauenkirche ⛪️
This Protestant church, with its iconic baroque dome, is a symbol of Dresden. Completely destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt in 2005 through generous public donations. Many of the original stones were reused in the reconstruction, piece by piece – a true testament to the people’s dedication. Its beauty and the story of its rebirth make it a powerful symbol of hope ✨.
Fürstenzug (Procession of Princes) 🎨
Stretching more than 100 meters along the wall of the old town, this massive mural depicts the mounted procession of Saxon electors and kings 👑🏇. It’s made up of around 23,000 Meissen porcelain tiles! I was truly blown away by the scale and intricacy of the artwork 🛡️.
Semperoper (Semper Opera House) 🎭
We joined a guided tour of this historic opera house. Though it was destroyed during WWII, it was later rebuilt through the city’s tireless efforts—and it shows. The interior is absolutely stunning. Wagner famously premiered several of his operas here, including Tannhäuser, and the young Gustav Mahler also stood at the conductor’s podium. Knowing that such musical giants once stood here made the experience even more moving. If you’re a music lover, I highly recommend visiting on a concert day 🎵.
A Sweet Break: Schokoladen Eis 🍫
We couldn’t resist the sharp-edged shape and rich look of the Schokoladen Eis (chocolate ice cream) we spotted at a local stand. 😅 It was a hot day, and this made for the perfect treat between walks💕intensely chocolatey and absolutely delicious!
2. Cobblestone Streets and Bustling Cafés
The cobbled lanes are lined with inviting cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.
Wide open squares give the old town a relaxed charm, making it ideal for a bit of shopping or a coffee break while exploring.
3. The View from the Elbe
The view of the historic townscape from the Elbe river bank is just like a painting. It’s also a lovely place to unwind and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the city.
4. Local Cuisine: A Hearty Dinner 🍽️
For an early dinner, we chose a traditional Saxon dish that all of us in the family ordered: Sauerbraten, or marinated beef stew. The meat was tender and full of flavor, with a slightly sweet, wine-based sauce that was incredibly rich and comforting.
Klöße (potato dumplings) were plump and chewy, with a gentle sweetness. Rotkohl (sweet-and-sour red cabbage) added the perfect contrast.I wholeheartedly recommend trying this if you visit!
A Memorable Dessert: Eierschecke 🍰
Before the trip, a German acquaintance recommended we try Eierschecke, a local Dresden specialty. It’s a fluffy, creamy cake made of three layers. At first glance, It looks modest and unadorned, but one bite, and the gentle aromas of vanilla and cheese spread softly through your mouth—it was so mild and comforting. I love rich cheesecakes, but this one’s subtle, homey flavor left a lasting impression. So much so that I ended up learning to bake it myself.
Now it’s become a tradition: I bake one every year as a birthday treat to myself 😆.
Curious to Try It Yourself? 😉
You’ll find my recipe for this Eierschecke on my blog Umami Sans Frontières! If this humble yet delightful German cake has caught your attention, I hope you’ll give it a try 😊
👉 Eierschecke Recipe Here
Want to explore more traditional German flavors at home?
Try these comforting classics too:
🥔 Klöße German-style potato dumplings – Kartofelknödel
🔴 Rotkohl – Sweet-and-sour red cabbage German Red Cabbage with Apples – Traditional Rotkohl
Perfect companions for hearty dishes—or simply for a cozy taste of Germany🇩🇪
