Berlin & Dresden - A Tale Of Two Cities

Itinerary

Map of Maritm Proarte Hotel, Berlin

Itinerary

Day 1: We make our way through France and into Germany for our overnight stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Dortmund.

Day 2:  Departing after breakfast we arrive for our two-night stay at the centrally located Maritim proArte Hotel, Berlin in time for dinner.

Day 3:  This morning we discover the multi-facets and intriguing history of this cosmopolitan city on our guided step-on, step-off coach tour. Our immersive tour peels back the layers of Berlin from its origins as a Prussian Powerhouse to the scars of the Third Reich and its uprising after the fall of the Wall. Stand beneath Berlin’s most iconic landmark and ultimate symbol of German reunification at Brandenburg Gate and visit Checkpoint Charlie, the Cold War’s most famous crossing point between East and West Berlin. Our journey into the history of this captivating city concludes with a poignant stop at some of the remaining stretches of Berlin Wall. This afternoon is at leisure to explore this varied and cultured city at your own pace.

Day 4: After breakfast we begin our journey to Dresden with a stop en-route at Moritzburg for a guided visit of the 16th century castle and gardens. Widely considered the prettiest moated castle in Saxony, the fairytale palace rises from an island in the middle of a tranquil lake. Inside you will find opulent Baroque state rooms, intricate gilt leather tapestries and the ‘Feather Room’ adorned with over a million coloured feathers. After our visit we step back in time for our one- way journey on one of Germany’s oldest narrow-gauge railways from Moritzburg to Radeburg. This picturesque journey traverses through deep forest, lush pastures and stunning Saxony countryside. We disembark in the traditional town of Radeburg before continuing our journey to the delightful Martim Hotel in the historic heart of Dresden for our three-night stay.

Day 5: Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the breathtaking city of Dresden, beautifully situated on the banks of the Elbe, where baroque grandeur meets modern flair.  Wander through the historic Old Town and discover iconic landmarks including the imposing Frauenkirche Cathedral which was completely destroyed during World War II and meticulously rebuilt using thousands of its original saved stones. You may also wish to visit Dresden Zwinger, a palatial complex ranked among Germany’s most well-known Baroque buildings and home to world acclaimed museums. In contrast, the Neustadt, on the north bank of the River Elbe is a vibrant, cultural area where you will find delights such as the Kuntshofpassage; a hidden network of interconnected courtyards filled with independent boutiques, galleries and cosy cafes.

Day 6: This morning, we embark on a leisurely upstream cruise through the scenic Elbe valley from Dresden to Pillnitz. Sit back and relax taking in the stunning scenery of rolling vineyards and marvel at famous trio of romantic Elbe Castles. After cruising under the historic Blue Wonder suspension bridge, we arrive at the magnificent Pillnitz Palace. This striking architectural masterpiece is an extraordinary ensemble of design where the far east merges with late Baroque, with Chinese-inspired structures and sprawling botanical grounds.

Day 7: After breakfast, we begin our journey home with an overnight stay at the Mercure Aachen Europlatz.

Day 8: We continue our journey home after breakfast this morning.

Checkpoint Charlie

Image of attraction

Accommodation

Maritim ProArte Hotel, Berlin

Courtyard by Marriott Dortmund (1 night)

 Maritim proArte Hotel, Berlin (2 nights)

Ideally located in the heart of the city on the famous Friedrichstrase, this comfortable hotel combines modern design with urban flair.  All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, hairdryer, air conditioning, safe and free Wi-Fi. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room. There is a lift at the hotel.  

 Maritim Hotel Dresden, Dresden (3 nights)

Located in the city centre on the banks of the Elbe and a few steps away from Dresden’s Historic Old Town district, the hotel provides the perfect base to explore. The hotel combines impressive architecture with modern facilities and wonderful views from the riverside terrace.  All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, hairdryer, air conditioning, safe and free Wi-Fi. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room. There is a lift at the hotel.  

Mercure Aachen Europlatz (1 night)