Dresden to Meissen and Gorlitz: Private day trip

Due to its prime location along the River Elbe, Meissen has always been a town of high importance. Built in 1741, Albrechtsburg castle was the first castle in Germany to be built solely for residential use (as opposed to military). Therefore great care was taken with the aesthetic design, resulting in the stunning architecture seen today. In 1710, the first European hard-paste porcelain manufacturer was established at the castle, growing in prominence and finesse until Meissen Porcelain became a much sought-after and well-renowned style of design. Meissen Cathedral resides on the same hill as Albrechtsburg castle, providing a fitting neighbor for the palace. Its gothic design perfectly complements the castle while remaining impressive in its own right.

Although Gorlitz has provided the setting for many famous movies over the years (Grand Hotel Budapest, Inglourious Basterds, and The Monuments Men to name just a few), it is the fabulous Peterskirche Gorlitz with its mighty twin towers that takes the accolades. The church majestically sits on a hill overlooking the River Neisse within the town walls and both the interior and exterior are an inspiration. This Gothic church, which could easily pass for a cathedral, is an object of extraordinary beauty. The Romanesque doorway adorned with spooky gargoyles hiding beneath the branches of the arch, the luminous fifteenth-century gothic interior, and the organ from 1703 with its mind-blowing sound effects, all add to an incredible visitor experience. Feel free to stop, take a seat in a pew and just look up at the incredible ceiling to add to the sense of wonderment that makes a visit to this church a truly memorable occasion.