Although the town of Meissen is quite small and not as internationally renowned as this acclaimed Cradle of Saxony actually deserves, it is one of Germany’s most historically significant cities and the perfect place to spend an unforgettable weekend!
Night slowly falls on the Albrechtsburg, Germany’s oldest castle complex.
Additionally, Meissen is home to Germany’s oldest castle and the site where European hard-paste porcelain was first produced in 1708. So, let’s explore what else this hidden gem has in store!
Whether you prefer beer or wine is, of course, a matter of taste. However, for some people, it is also a philosophical and social question. In fact, it was none other than Scottish novelist Robert Louis Stevenson who equated wine to poetry in a bottle. And as a world-famous writer, he certainly knew what he was talking about. No one said that about beer.
But no matter what your personal opinion on the cultural difference between beer and wine is, in one respect, you can only give preference to the latter: namely, when it comes to the beauty of the growing regions. In this regard, the grapevines beat the hop bushes by a mile! Proof of this was my recent hike along the Saxon Wine Trail. With its idyllic vineyards, enchanting castles, and magnificent villas, a day trip from Dresden into the Elbe Wine Region will definitely be one of the most heart-, soul- and stomach-filling trips you will have enjoyed in a long time.
Seusslitz Castle is only one of many majestic structures in the Elbe Wine Region.
Since the trail is lined not only by some amazing landmarks but also by countless eateries and wine bars, all you need are your hiking boots, a sun hat, and a little drinking water. Everything else is readily waiting for you alongside this truly mesmerizing path!
The heart of Saxony beats right here, in the city of Dresden. Already the nickname Florence on the Elbe is a clear reference to Dresden’s magnificent imperial structures and the city’s picturesque location on one of Germany’s longest and most scenic rivers. Its distinctive aura and elegance make Dresden one of Germany’s most beautiful and worthwhile travel destinations.
Are you heading to the Atlantic coast to take on those giant waves? Or do you want to enjoy an extensive wine tasting in the vineyards and chateaux around Saint-Émilion? Whatever the reason for your visit to this region of France, you’ll hardly be able to avoid at least a pit stop in the proverbial Pearl of the Southwest. I’m talking, of course, about Bordeaux, the charming wine capital of France. And that’s a good thing, because the city is definitely worth a visit, and with my guide for up to 24 hours, you’ll be able to make the most of Bordeaux.
The retro charm of the old carousel blends enchantingly with the exquisite facades of Bordeaux’s magnificent buildings.
Normally, I would foresee at least two to three days in Bordeaux, even more if you really want to immerse yourself in the French savoir-vivre with leisurely strolls through the picturesque streets and plenty of breaks in cozy cafés. But sometimes, time is limited. Even more so, it should be used to its full potential, and below, you’ll find a perfectly designed itinerary.
After having introduced in my post BORDEAUX: Best Street Art on the Left Bank of the Garonne the best murals you’ll spot around the city’s historic old town, here is the best street art you’ll find alongside the right bank of the river Garonne.
Portrait by MAS.ONER decorating the facade of the Gymnase Thiers in the Bastide neighborhood on the right bank of the river Garonne.This Way to the Whole Story ->
Due to French centralism, Bordeaux has always been overshadowed by Paris. In my opinion, quite unjustly. France’s most important wine-producing city is a true treasure trove, and not just architecturally. In recent years, many dilapidated neighborhoods and the former quays along the Garonne River have been renovated and spruced up. Subversive art also flourishes on the city’s walls. In this post, I’ll take you on a tour to explore the best street art Bordeaux has to offer alongside the left bank of the river Garonne.
“We must accept each other’s personality and sexuality without judgment, and stop viewing differences as a danger or deviance. I played with the balance and symbolism of colors and with gender codes by using certain caricatured images to challenge stereotypes”, explains street artist Jean Rooble about his work, which is one part of his diptych called Gender Equality.This Way to the Whole Story ->
It all began with a student exchange ages ago. Since then, I’ve probably visited Bordeaux more often than any other city, not just in France but in the entire world. While on my early visits, I focused more on the café culture, the clubs, and the laid-back charm of southwestern France, only now, in my advanced years, am I discovering the cultural treasures that no visitor should miss when visiting Bordeaux. Therefore, I’m delighted that you’re joining me on this rediscovery of a city that has been so dear to my heart for such a long time!
The Place des Grands Hommes is one of the city’s many squares that combine history, beauty, and the legendary French savoir-vivre, the art of living your best life.This Way to the Whole Story ->
Did you know that there are five international airports in the Czech Republic? No? Me neither. Obviously, despite the other four, the busiest hub by far is the Václav Havel Airport, located 15 kilometers west of Prague’s city center. And even though this airport isn’t one of Europe’s most important hubs, you may well find yourself having a layover there. Actually, that’s what happened to me on my way from Dubrovnik to Hamburg, for example. Or perhaps you want to visit one of the beautiful towns in the Czech Republic, like, for instance, Děčín. If you land in Prague, you might want to spare a few hours or even a night to explore the city. Whatever the reason for your short stay might be, my post 24 hours in Prague will help you make the most of it!
No matter how short your stay in Prague actually is, a stroll across the legendary Charles Bridge is a must!This Way to the Whole Story ->
Bohemian – this term always sounds so sophisticated and almost decadent. In this case, however, I’m referring to the geographical meaning. And what can I say: The Bohemian Switzerland is as refined and opulent as you could wish for. So let me convey the fascinating past, trendy presence, and most importantly, breathtaking wonders of nature you get to enjoy in just one weekend in Decin, the amazing gateway to the Bohemian Switzerland.
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