European metropolises with their historical sites are the travel goals of tourists from around the world. In this very centre of the old continent, three cities can be found – although not very large by Europe’s scale, these cities offer their visitors a witness of their rich and often moving history, exceptional architectural gems and scenes straight from a postcard.
Dresden
Dresden is forever associated with the name Augustus II the Strong , but really, it’s the Elector of Saxony and Polish king, Frederick Augustus I who built this “Florence on the Elbe” during the first half of the 18th century. Another milestone of this city was the bombing towards the end of the Second World War when many important buildings were destroyed. Maybe the most interesting reminder of this tragedy is the Frauenkirche church, which was brought back from ruin not too long ago in 1994-2005. Other than the Frauenkirche, many other places can be added to the abundance of sought-after sites, such as the Zwinger gallery, the Altmarkt old town square with a shopping gallery of the same name and Dresden Castle, or the “Procession of Princes” (Fürstenzug – the largest porcelain piece of art on earth). Dresden’s advantage lies in the fact that it’s truly beautiful here any time of the year – in summer you can feel the freshness of one of Europe’s greenest cities and you can experience the breath-taking atmosphere of the Saxon advent markets during Christmas.
Image credits: Photo by Jens Mahnke from PexelsPrague
The nickname “City of a Thousand Spires” does not fall short. As time goes on, Prague is becoming more and more popular and it can boast not only one of the biggest castle complexes on earth – Prague Castle, but also a number of beautiful and historically significant buildings on both the Old and New Town squares. Then Malá Strana, with its picturesque alcoves, will entice you to enjoy long, romantic walks or to just go wandering about the city with your camera. Prague is also known for its delicious gastronomy. Prague restaurants will be glad to treat you to traditional delicacies of Czech cuisine, often prepared in new and inventive ways. Choose a hotel in Prague within walking distance from the interesting spots if possible – “getting lost” in the streets of the historical city centre simply has an unmistakable magic to it.
Bratislava
Image creditsBratislava is the last city in our central Europe threesome. Bratislava is also proud of its castle, which is considered the main symbol of the city. Entrance inside the castle is definitely worth your while. A marvellous view of the Bratislava and its surroundings is waiting for you at the top. The city’s historical centre is also worth taking a look. It’s here that you will be able to check out Michael’s Gate – a remnant of the original medieval fortifications, the Old Town Hall or the opulent baroque palace. The historical site Slavín rises above the city as a reminder of the soviet soldiers who fell during the freeing of Slovakia at the end of the Second World War. Despite its reverent atmosphere necessary for reflecting, visitors can also expect another panoramic view of the city. Wind down after by taking a stroll around the sculptures in the streets – there truly are many of them that have been installed here and each has its own story. In the evening you can then enjoy a glass of wine at any one of the wine shops in the city centre.