Dresden, Germany – Rich History, Events and Lots to See and Do
Dresden, Germany
– Rich History, Events and Lots to See and Do
Basic Information
What to see and do
Zwinger Palace
One of Germany’s most well-known Baroque buildings, this is a must-see.
It’s easy to get to in the heart of Dresden.
In the past, it was the orangery and the festival site of the Dresden Court.
Today it houses many museums of international repute and is home to theatre and music performances throughout the year.
For a list of events and exhibitions, see the Zwinger Palace homepage:
Frauenkirche
Without a doubt, the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) is one of the most visited and famous churches in Germany.
Completely flattened in the bombing of Dresden during the Second World War, the church has been lovely and authentically reconstructed.
It’s now considered a symbol of peace and reconciliation and welcomes visitors.
Learn more about the history of the Frauenkirche by visiting it online: frauenkirche-dresden.de
Kunsthofpassage
You’ll find this passage in the Neustadt (about 3 kilometres from Hotel Pullman).
In addition to the array of shops, cafes, and restaurants, you’ll discover some of the most unusual yet beautiful and creative facades you’ll ever encounter.
It’s a series of courts with a fantastic makeover thanks to the vision of three dynamic artists.
The Court of the Elements (aka the Singing Drain Pipes) turns into a musical instrument when the rain runs through the drainpipes.
To see more of the creative artwork, and find out what’s on, check out the Kunsthof Passage website: kunsthof-dresden.de
Places to stay
I stayed at the Pullman Dresden Newa because of its proximity to both the main train station and the central attractions of Dresden.
The hotels’ lovely rooms with a fabulous view and comfortable beds made it a delightful stay.
An excellent spa area and fitness room rounded out the experience.
In addition, the service, restaurant, and breakfast were outstanding.
The prices were very reasonable for such a high standard.
All in all, it was a good choice.
Festivals and Events in Dresden
Dixieland Festival
We visited this swing and boogie festival, and it was an absolute pleasure.
An annual festival taking place in May, it pays tribute to New Orleans style jazz.
You can read more about it on the festival info page.
Christmas Markets
Dresden’s beautiful Christmas Markets are well worth visiting.
Hot summer nights by the Elbe
Eastern Germany can experience some hot weather, and on those hot summer nights, the popular thing to do is take a picnic to enjoy on the banks of the river Elbe.
It’s a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere sitting there watching the sun go down with the beautiful Dresden skyline as a backdrop.
How to get there
Dresden is easy to reach by train and plane from most of the bigger European cities.
If travelling from outside Europe, you may have to take a flight to a hub airport, such as Frankfurt, and travel further by train or plane.
The airport is around 20 minutes north of the city centre, easily reached by bus or tram.
Dresden Neustadt and Dresden Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) are the two major train stations serving Dresden.
Things to do in Dresden
More from Germany
Beautiful and famous Stratford upon Avon
Stratford upon Avon, famous for the birthplace of Shakespeare
Set in the Midlands of England, 22 miles (35 kilometres) south-east of Birmingham, lies this historic town by the river Avon.
Stratford has a population of just over 25,000 and is world-famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the poet and playwright.
Many of the buildings connect with the famous Bard, and the area has many Tudor style buildings and properties with thatched roofs.
Attractions
Many tourists, particularly on warm summer days, sit on the lawns outside the Royal Shakespeare theatres and picnic or stroll along the riverbank, watching the many swans that swim here all through the year.
At the far end of the lawns is the Canal Basin, part of the London to Birmingham canal, where you can watch canal boats navigate the lock or walk past the touring and permanently sited boats.
On the edge of the gardens, you will find Swan Fountain, unveiled in 1996 by Queen Elizabeth 2. From this fountain, guided tours of the city begin every day, including Christmas Day, organised by Stratford Town Walk.
Walk across the footbridge, and you will find a Butterfly Farm, the largest of its type in Europe.
Back on the town side of the river, you can stroll through the Tudor style frontage of retail outlets whilst finding historical reminders of Shakespeare.
Visit Henley Street and find the house where Shakespeare was born on 23rd April 1564.
At Wood Street, High Street and Sheep Street, you find many independent traders, including Curtis Brae, the famous Teddy Bear shop.
Sheep Street is the restaurant area, although there are many to be found elsewhere in the town.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is another attractions. Shakespeare’s wife lived here before she married him.
“New Place” which Shakespeare owned and where he died, and Hall’s Croft where Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna lived after her marriage.
4.9 million visitors per year visit the Royal Shakespeare Theater Complex and centre.
The riverside sets the Shakespeare Theater with the Bancroft Gardens beside it.
Tours of the complex are available daily, from 9.00 a.m. (10.a.m. on Sundays).
It is also possible to climb the tower for remarkable views of Stratford upon Avon and the surrounding Warwickshire countryside.
The theatre offers many events during the year with productions of Shakespear and works from all over the world.
Please visit the Shakespear Theatre Company website for upcoming events and dates:
History
The city’s history goes well beyond Shakespeare.
It was a market town, granted a royal charter by King Richard in 1198, allowing it to hold markets.
Because of its location, Stratford upon Avon also became a centre of the leather industry, and local shops still sell locally made leather goods.
Festivals in Stratford-upon-Avon and nearby
Shakespeare Birthday Celebration, every year in April.
The highlight of the weekend is the procession through the town and the unfurling of the flags.
Sightseeing and tourist information
Open topped tourist buses take visitors around the town with a guided commentary.
The Tourist Information is in Bridge Street near the waterfront, and their web address is stratford-upon-avon.co.uk.
How to get here; It can be by road, rail, or by air.
Many areas around England have coach tours available, there are up to 7 trains a day from Marylebone Station, London, and the nearest airports are Coventry and Birmingham.
More attractions near Stratford upon Avon
Not far from Stratford, just 15 kilometres (9 miles), is Warwick.
This little town is also situated by the River Avon, with just over 27,000 people.
Most come to Warwick to visit the famous and historic Warwick Castle
Tours and things to do in Stratford upon Avon
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The Historic Warwick Castle in Midlands England
The Historic Warwick Castle in Midlands England
Visitors to the Midlands of England should visit the historic town of Warwick, set on the banks of the River Avon, a small town with a population of just over 27,000 people. Most people come to Warwick to visit Warwick Castle. A majestic castle initially built by William the Conqueror in 1068 in wood. It was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century and with major additions in the 14th and 17th centuries.
It’s also lovely to stroll through the old town Warwick and look at the beautiful architecture.
When you visit the castle, you will find history depicted in a modern, exciting way.
The entrance is by the Stable Courtyard, and you will see a reconstruction of a Ballista, a siege catapult.
Entrance to the walled castle is through Clarence Tower, and once inside, you will view the large grassed area and gardens which lie inside the walls.
Warwick Castle has many towers built for defence around the walls.
Caesar’s Tower has the 14th-century gaol where you can still see the names of the imprisoned scratched into the cold, dark walls.
Clarence Tower is a reconstruction of the 15th-century building.
As you walk around the walls, the views of the surrounding countryside are spectacular.
At the far end, beside the river, you will see the Trebuchet, one of the world’s most significant siege engines, which were built as a reconstruction in Denmark and brought to the castle in 2005.
This 18-meter tall catapult, weighing 22 tonnes, can fire large rocks over 200 meters.
At various times during the year, demonstrations of its throwing power take place.
Away from the lawns, you will find the Sword in the Stone area depicting the legend that Arthur pulled the sword Excalibur free, showing him the rightful king.
The Earls of Warwick were owners of the castle for over 400 years since King James 1 gave it to Sir Fulke Greville in 1604, who converted it into a stately home. Since the end of the 17th century, it is available for tourists, and Queen Victoria visited in 1858. In 1978 the castle was leased to the Tussaud’s group (of Madame Tussaud’s waxwork fame), and this company has now merged with others to become the Merlin Group. The castle’s main buildings have had 6 million pounds spent on them in the last ten years. The Great Hall and State Rooms use wax models to help depict life in the castle as it used to be. It is the largest room in Warwick Castle, and there are over six rooms that depict the Edwardian and Victorian high society lifestyles. There are also 12 rooms depicting the Royal Weekend Party, where the primary guest was Edward Prince of Wales, later to be Edward the seventh. Inside the walls, mainly on the grass area, daily events are held. These include the “flight of the eagles”, where birds of prey fly around the area, archery displays and jousting. For young children under 10, there is the Princess Tower, where young children pretend to break a curse. Entry here is included in your entry ticket, but because of its limit of 30, you must book a time slot when you buy your ticket. There are modern, extra attractions that give a unique atmosphere to the castle. Individual tickets, which must be bought separately, are for the Merlin Castle Dungeon and the Merlin Dragon Tower, both with timed entry tickets. The Merlin Castle Dungeon has ten rooms depicting the most frightening of times in the castle’s history. It is interaction with live actors and special effects. The tour takes about 50 minutes and is unsuitable for children under ten years, for pregnant ladies, for those with heart conditions or those easily frightened. The Merlin Dragon Tower is based on the TV drama “Merlin” and shows the young magician trying to protect Arthur. You will get a chance to talk to the dragon and to look in the magic mirror. The dragon breathes smoke and fire. The tour takes 15 minutes, and under 18’s are only allowed when accompanied by an adult. Children under four are allowed free. It’s so much to see, so it is good to spend an entire day in the castle.
Entertainment and events outside Warwick Castle
Sources and external links
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warwick_Castle
Warwick Castle official website: https://www.warwick-castle.com
Where to Stay – Hotel Tips
Warwickshire Hotel and Country Club
With a spa centre, hydrotherapy pool and sauna, this hotel is a leisure dream. It has a fitness centre as well.
Guests can also enjoy an 18-hole golf course, a par three short course and a driving range.
Luxuriate in beautiful surroundings, book a spa treatment and take a jog along a designated 5 km course.
Festivals in Warwick
Tours and tickets to Warwick Castle
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Gordes in France, A Provencal Gem !
About Gordes in France
Gordes is full of charm and set amidst the beautiful scenery of the Vaucluse department in Provence.
It’s difficult to miss this lovely commune as you approach because, like many others in Provence, it is set on a hillside, overlooking the surrounding vineyards and olive groves.
It is actually known as one of the most beautiful villages in France, so this is Provence at its best!
For many people, a visit to Gordes means wandering around this charming village and soaking in the atmosphere and architecture. There are narrow, cobbled streets, many of which lead to the castle right in the heart of the village and at its highest point. This is the town’s major tourist attraction, and it was partially rebuilt in the Renaissance style in 1525. The cellars of Saint Firmain Palace are also famous, while a little outside the village is the Senanque Abbey. Village des Bories Also, a little outside of the village is an open-air museum called the Village de Bories, where there are around 20 dry stone huts built in the 18th century. The hills and agricultural lands surrounding the village are great to explore on foot or by bike.
Things to See and Do
The Senanque Abbey
Getting to Gordes
The village has a rural setting so you won’t find any large cities nearby, but that is of course part of its appeal.
Marseille is around 90 kilometres (56 miles) almost directly south, while the City of the Popes, Avignon, is around 40 kilometres (25 miles) to the west.
Both Avignon and Marseille have airports. From the airport it would be easiest and most convenient to rent a car and drive through the beautiful Provencal scenery.
Hotels and Where to Stay
Gordes has a permanent population of only around 2,000 people, so this isn’t a large town, and there’s a limited number of places to stay.
La Bastide de Gordes Hotel and Spa is a stunning luxurious 5-star hotel with beautiful views.
Hotel Les Bories and Spa are set on its 8-hectare estate amidst olive trees, lavender, cypresses and oak trees.
Overview of all hotels in Gordes
Of course, you can also opt for more basic accommodation if you want to experience more how the locals live, and a popular option is to rent a farmhouse as a private rental or stay in one of the quaint B&Bs.
The Weather
Summers are much like the rest of Provence, relatively dry and relatively hot, and you’ll find the hottest temperatures in July and August when average highs are 28 to 29C.
There are usually just a few days of rain in these months, making this a great time to visit.
Winters are cold, but not excessively so unless there’s a Mistral wind blowing through.
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NOS Alive Lisbon, Portugal 7 – 10 July 2021
NOS Alive Lisbon, Portugal
7 -10 July 2021
Basic Information
When: 7 -10 July 2021
Where: Passeio Marítimo de Algés, Lisbon, Portugal
Map: Passeio Maritimo de Algés on Google Maps
Official website: nosalive.com
Hotels: Overview of all hotels in Lisbon
Taking place at Passeio Marítimo de Algés, only 8 minutes from downtown Lisbon. This is considered by many to be one of Europe’s most respected indie, rock and alternative music festivals. Consistently outstanding lineups last years with rock and indie legends such as Pearl Jam, Smashing Pumpkins, Beastie Boys, Deadmau5, Foo Fighters, Tiga and Trickey.
About NOS Alive
Lineup NOS Alive 2021
Fontaines D.C. – Black Pumas – Nothing But Thieves – Seasick Steve – Red Hot Chili Peppers – The War On Drugs – The Lumineers – Angel Olsen – Hobo Johnson and The Lovemakers – Moses Sumney – Sea Girls – Tom Misch – Faith No More – Da Weasel – Two Door Cinema Club – Caribou – Alec Benjamin – Parcels – The Strokes – Manel Cruz – La Roux – Haim
Practical info
Once you get there on Day 1, it is mandatory to exchange your 3-Day Pass for a NOS Alive wristband to access the festival site over the three days.
Free buses that run between the Alegro Alfragide Shopping Centre and the NOS Alive.
Like a mini-city, the festival area includes a food hall, an onsite field hospital, a police stand, an ATM cash machine area and a separate clubbing tent.
Where to Stay
Dating back to 1900, this newly-refurbished boutique hotel is located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic centre, a 1-minute walk from Rossio Train Station.
The rooms are designed by the Portuguese fashion designer João Rôlo.
You are within easy reach of the shops and restaurants of the Rossio, or Alfama, or Chiado districts. Bairro Alto is a 12-minute walk away.
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EDP Cool Jazz in Cascais, Portugal. July 2022
EDP Cool Jazz in Cascais, Portugal.
July 2022
Basic Information
About EDP Cool Jazz
Cool jazz on warm summer nights with a bit of funk, soul, rock and pop threw in for good measure.
Come to Portugal for one of the coolest jazz festivals around, EDP Cool Jazz.
Here you’ll be entertained in an intimate environment by big-name international artists in green and tranquil surroundings.
The festival takes place over three weeks, in the summer.
Perfect timing to combine a visit to the festival with a coastal summer holiday.
Spend your days lounging on the beach and your nights listening to sultry jazz.
With great food and drink on offer and a focus on sustainability, EDP Cool Jazz can be a great place to be this summer.
2022 Lineup will be announced closer to the event
Because the concerts are spread over a 2 – 3 week period, make sure you check out when your favourites will be playing, so you don’t miss out.
….
Check for updates, full lineup and concert dates:
Official website: edpcooljazz.com
Getting there
Travel around 30 km west of Lisbon on the A5, and you’ll reach the charming coastal town of Cascais.
The EPD Cool Jazz festival is held in the Hipódromo Manuel Possolo and the Parque Marechal Carmona.
It’s an easy drive from Lisbon or Lisbon Airport, and you also have the option of taking a bus or train.
Where to stay
Situated on the Estoril coast, west of Lisbon, Cascais is famous as a holiday destination and a day trip from the nation’s capital Lisbon.
If the word budget doesn’t cross your lips, then a stay at the fabulously luxurious The Albatroz Hotel might be the place for you!
The hotel is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, just a short stroll away from the beach, and there are spectacular sea views from all across the property.
But if you want gorgeousness and affordability all rolled into one, then check out the delightful Villa Vasco da Gama.
The backpacker option in Cascais is the Backpackers Hostel Portugal in the centre of town.
It offers dormitory accommodation with shared bathrooms and private double rooms.
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Electric Castle Music Festival, Cluj-Napoca, Romania 13 – 17 July 2022
Electric Castle Multi Genre Music Festival in Cluj-Napoca, Romania
13 – 17 July 2022
Basic Information
When: 13 – 17 July 2022
Where: Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Map: Bánffy Castle (Electric Castle Venue) on Google Maps
Official website: electriccastle.ro
About Electric Castle
Electric Castle is a unique, diverse multi-genre music festival within the ancient Banffy Castle, near Cluj-Napoca, in Transylvania, Romania.
It’s one of Europe’s few genuinely 24-hours festival, where you can enjoy a mix of music like pop, rock, hip hop and electronic, with a combination of arts, technology and innovative visuals.
You can be sure to be enthralled day and night during the festival, which also includes street performers, stand-up comedy acts, and elaborate productions.
From the Lineup 2022
TWENTY ONE PILOTS – GORILLAZ – DEFTONES
and many more to come!
Check back closer to the event for full lineup and updates at https://electriccastle.ro/line-up.
How to get there
Shuttle buses will run all day and night long, leaving Horia Demian Sports Hall and Iulius Mall.
All information on the Electric Castle Festival Website:
https://electriccastle.ro/getting-there
Where to Stay
The Electric Castle Festival has its great camping.
You can find out more about it on their official website:
https://electriccastle.ro/tickets#accommodation
If you prefer to stay at a hotel, there are some excellent hotels in Cluj-Napoca.
Offering rooms with travel-themed decors.
Hotel Biscuit is located 1.5 km from the centre, with a supermarket and restaurants within a 5-minute walk.
Private parking is possible, and the closest bus stop is within 200 metres.
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Rock in Rio Festival, Lisbon, Portugal. 18 – 19 and 25 – 26 June 2022
Rock in Rio Lisbon, Portugal
18 – 19 and 25 – 26 June 2022
Basic Information
When: 18 – 19 and 25 – 26 June 2022
Where: Parque da Bela Vista, Lisbon, Portugal
Map: Parque da Bela Vista, Lisbon on Google Maps
Official Website: Rock in Rio Lisbon
Hotels: Hotels in Lisbon
About Rock in Rio Lisbon
This rock and pop festival is held every two years with a great lineup with popular artists.
The festival venue is in Parque da Bela Vista, in the northern quarter of the city centre.
Lineup Rock in Rio Lisbon 2022
Foo Fighters, The National and Liam Gallagher are already confirmed.
Check the official website for updates closer to the event.
Hotel tip
Hotel Roma, Lisbon is a basic but good three-star hotel.
Close to the metro and railway station Roma.
Twenty minutes walk to the Parque da Bela Vista and Rock in Rio Lisbon Festival.
Also very close to the airport.
If you want a little more comfort, but not too expensive, Lutecia Smart Design Hotel, Lisbon is a comfortable four-star hotel in the same area as Hotel Roma.
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NOS Primavera Sound Porto festival, 9 – 12 June 2022
NOS Primavera Sound Porto Festival
9 – 12 June 2022
Basic Information
When: 9 – 12 June 2022
Where: Porto, Portugal
Map: NOS Primavera Sound Porto on Google Maps
Official website: https://www.primaverasound.com/en/porto
Accommodation: Hotels in Porto
Primavera Sound Festival in the beautiful city of Porto!
Portuguese Primavera Sound festival is often referred to as a little sister of the famous Spanish Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona.
It started in 2012 and still shares the indie rooted idea with a great indie music lineup.
The festival is in the fantastic Parque Da Cidade, between the sea and city – spectacular for hosting this kind of event.
If you want to get something different from a music festival, this might be a perfect solution for you.
Nestled on the Atlantic Ocean coast, Porto is one of the most beautiful European cities with stunning architecture and rich cultural life.
Lineup 2022 will be announced soon
…
Check their website for latest updates and tickets; https://www.primaverasound.com/en/porto
Hotel tip
Hotel Roma, Lisbon is a basic but good three-star hotel.
Close to the metro and railway station Roma.
Twenty minutes walk to the Parque da Bela Vista and Rock in Rio Lisbon Festival.
Also very close to the airport.
If you want a little more comfort, but not too expensive, Lutecia Smart Design Hotel, Lisbon is a comfortable four-star hotel in the same area as Hotel Roma.
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Viagem Medieval in Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal. July/August 2021
Viagem Medieval, in Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal.
July/August 2021 (Dates not confirmed)
Basic Information
When: July/August 2021 (Dates not confirmed)
Where: Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal
Map: Santa Maria da Feira on Google Maps
Official website: https://www.viagemmedieval.com
Hotels: Hotels in Santa Maria da Feira
Viagem Medieval em Terra de Santa Maria – The Medieval Journey in the Land of Santa Maria – is one of Europe’s major historical reenactment events. As it is very popular, it attracts a good crowd every year.
About Viagem Medieval
This annual Middle Ages reenactment takes you back in time to another era.
It is held in the well preserved old town of Santa Maria da Feira. Viagem Medieval em Terra de Santa Maria shows you what daily life was like in the Middle Ages for nobility and commoners alike.
This lively, historical recreation offers a glimpse into Portugal’s heritage.
It’s also a fantastic gastronomical feast.
The market stalls will be trading as they did in the past.
There will be crafts, blacksmiths, bakers, other artisans, sword fighting, duels, jousting, sieges, battle reenactments, invasions of the castle, acrobats, jugglers, and fire-eaters.
What’s special about Viagem Medieval?
Viagem Medieval is really well organised and incredibly authentic.
If you want a taste of what life was like in the Middle Ages, this festival will certainly provide that.
You’ll also have the chance to taste a fogaça, which is a sweet roll developed over 500 years ago as an offering to the patron saint, Saint Sebastien, to rid the area of the dark plague.
How to get to the Viagem Medieval at Santa Maria da Feira
There are international airports in Lisbon and Porto.
Santa Maria da Feira is situated 286 km north of Lisbon, which is approximately 2.5 hours drive.
Buses and taxis travel from Porto to Santa Maria da Feira – a distance of approximately 30 kms.
More about Santa Maria da Feira and Porto
Santa Maria da Feira is located just south of Porto (33km), the capital of the north.
The old towns of Santa Maria da Feira and Porto are beautiful examples of Medieval architecture.
The Santa Maria da Feira Castle dates back to the 11th century and is the prominent landmark of this small city.
It’s on a hilltop looking down on the city and is an excellent example of the defence monuments built in the Middle Ages.
The nearby coastal city of Porto is worth a visit.
Located on the Iberian Peninsula, Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal.
Its medieval part of town, Ribeira, is UNESCO listed and full of exciting alleys to explore.
Here you’ll discover many architectural styles from Baroque to Art Nouveau.
Along with its cobbled pathways, Porto is also well-known for art, especially the hand-painted tiles (azulejos) you see everywhere and its wine and food.
Make sure you try one of Porto’s specialities: a francesinha (a sandwich with cured ham, sausage, and steak covered in molten cheese and a hot tomato and beer sauce).
It’s also the city where author JK Rowling, of Harry Potter fame, lived.
Things to do in Porto
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