An international tourist destination for decades, Dresden is steeped in history and has – at various points – played a significant part in Germany’s modern development. Traditionally a residence for the German monarchy, it was a cultural and political hub during the twentieth century but was bombed during World War Two; indeed, it still bears the scars to this day. It is also extremely well connected by car from major cities such as Berlin, Leipzig and Prague.

With a pleasant year-round climate and such an abundance of natural history, no trip to Germany is complete without a visit here. Art lovers and collectors will find several excellent collections of paintings and prints, sculpture, installation and video art at some of the many galleries housing the work of local and internationally acclaimed artists; one must for any artisan is the Galerie Gebrüder Lehmann. Nightlife is also excellent in the city; for festival lovers, also be sure to check out the Bunte Republik Neustadt which is a festival celebrating the arts.