Saxon Switzerland”, located southeast of Dresden, features exotic sandstone formations that dot the landscape. Sail by steamboat on the Elbe River to the Pillnitz Palace. Distinctly different from other German palaces and castles, this palace was built in a Chinoise style. Continue by car to the “Bastion”, the symbol of Saxon Switzerland. The lookout on top of this 305 meter high rock offers an impressive view of the Saxon Swiss landscape, the Elbe River and the Bastion Bridge. This sandstone bridge, constructed in 1851, crosses a 40 meter deep gorge. Return to Dresden in the afternoon.

In the morning depart for Weimar. Along the way visit Moritzburg Castle. Nestled in a romantic landscape of lakes and forests, this baroque castle served as the movie set for “Three Wishes for Cinderella”. Then continue to Meissen, the first town in Europe to manufacture porcelain. Visit the city’s historic center and tour its main attraction: the Meissen porcelain factory. Next travel to Weimar, the hometown of famous historic figures such as Goethe, Schiller, Bach and Liszt.

Today travel to Eisenach and explore the impressive castle of Wartburg, where Luther translated the New Testament into
German. Then continue to Erfurt, also known as “Thuringian Rome“ because of its architectural beauty. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city and visit the Augustine monastery and the Merchants´ Bridge Krämerbrücke). Return to Weimar.

Travel to Berlin. On the way to Berlin visit Leipzig and enjoy a sightseeing tour. For several centuries Leipzig was the economic and spiritual center of Europe. Continue to Berlin.