20 years ago, Dresden was in hibernation after its apocalyptic destruction at the end of World War II. Today the restored Saxon capital, with the world-famous Frauenkirche, and its fabulous art treasures make it an ideal day trip from Berlin.

Travel in the comfort of an airconditioned coach accompanied by our English-speaking guide. On arrival, we give you a walking tour of the old city centre, the "Altstadt". Admire breathtaking views of the Elbe river from the Bruehl Terrace and marvel at the Baroque splendour of the Zwinger palace, creation of Augustus the Strong. We examine the terrible story of the firebombing in February 1945 in some detail: see the rebuilt Frauenkirche, Church of Our Lady, and the futuristic New Synagogue, both symbols of the rebirth of a city laid waste by Nazi and wartime destruction.

In the afternoon, explore in your own time some of the fabulously rich collections the city has to offer: the treasures of the Green Vault; the extraordinary Porcelain Collection; the Old Masters' Gallery with Raphael’s Sistine Madonna. Before returning, enjoy a coach tour along the river, where palaces and villas untouched by the firebombing adorn the valley.