Saxony
What you need to know before you go
Saxony is a fascinating mix of charming Baroque towns and exceptional landscapes, attracting young creatives, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Thanks to its colourful history, this free state in eastern Germany has loads of majestic palaces and castles, many of which were built during the Middle Ages. The state's capital city of Dresden is famous for its many beautifully restored structures, including Frauenkirche, The Zwinger (an 18th-century palace), and Dresdner Molkerei Gebrüder Pfund (one of the world’s most beautiful dairy shops).
Saxony also has plenty of natural attractions appealing to fans of the outdoors. Fichtelberg Mountain, part of the Ore mountain range, is excellent for winter fun, including cross-country skiing and bobsledding. The Saxon Switzerland National Park has over 700 peaks for rock climbers of any experience level, along with the imposing 194-metre-tall rock formations of Bastei Bridge.
Top destinations in Saxony
Where will you go next?Dresden
Dresden's celebrated cityscape is a picturesque blend of green gardens and parks, crowned by the spires, domes and towers of its plentiful architectural marvels – many of which have been painstakingly restored in the wake of the Allied bombings in 1945...Leipzig
Dubbed "the new Berlin", Leipzig moves to its own beat in the German state of Saxony. Like the capital, it lures in cool creative types, with its funky offerings and rich musical heritage, boasting connections to Mendelssohn, Wagner and Bach...
What to see & do in Saxony
Featured stories & fun stuff8 Best Things to Do in Dresden
The best things to do in Dresden are mostly great examples of Baroque and Rococo architecture. Nicknamed the Florence on the Elbe, this vibrant riverfront city takes you back to an opulent past filled with grand palaces and cathedrals. Many...8 Best Things to Do in Leipzig
The best things to do in Leipzig let you step back into the German city’s interesting history. You can explore Romanesque churches, Art Nouveau buildings, and 16th-century cellars that were once frequented by renowned composers and poets. Shopping options...10 Best Family Things to Do in Dresden
Dresden is a dynamic destination for a family holiday. The capital city of the German state of Saxony offers eclectic...10 Best Things to Do in Saxony
In Germany’s far east lies Saxony. A free state shrouded in history, the area has played a role in some...10 Best Family Things to Do in Leipzig
Leipzig, the vibrant cultural centre of Germany, is filled with history, musical heritage, creativity and the spirit of ages past...
Where & what to eat in Saxony
10 Best Local Restaurants in Dresden
Local restaurants in Dresden serve up an incredible selection of regional dishes, making them excellent spots for trying Saxon-style cuisine at affordable prices. One of Germany’s most culturally significant cities, Dresden has a fascinating history that results in monumental...10 Great Restaurants in Dresden
The great restaurants in Dresden range from classic German eateries that feature local recipes to posh eateries with inventive menus...10 Great Restaurants in Leipzig
Restaurants in Leipzig range from ultra-traditional and casual to contemporary and super-fancy venues. You’ll find a broad array...
Where to shop & what to buy in Saxony
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Dresden
This guide showcases some of the best places to go shopping in Dresden, one of the most stunning cities in Germany. The capital of Saxony features a storied history and culture told through soaring architecture and palatial performance venues. However...10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Leipzig
This guide to the best places to go shopping in Leipzig includes some of the most popular malls and trendiest districts in the city. The German city offers a variety of shopping experiences, with a combination of commercial malls, local...
Where to go & what to do at night in Saxony
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Leipzig
This guide to the best things to do after dinner in Leipzig helps you experience the incredible nightlife of the German city. There are numerous streets and districts to head to after sunset, including Marktplatz, Karl-Liebknecht-Straße and Barfussgässchen...10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Dresden
Looking for the best things to do after dinner in Dresden? You'll be glad to know that ‘Florence on the Elbe’ has a diverse and vibrant nightlife scene. Bisected by the majestic Elbe River after which it gets its nickname...