Now nearly completely rebuilt since WW II destruction and nicknamed “Florence of the Elbe,” Dresden’s landmarks include the Semper Opera House and Frauenkirche. See the 18th-century Zwinger Palace and the Albertinum, which houses the renowned Green Vault where Saxon monarchs’ dazzling crown jewels are on display.
The German Capital
Highlights around Berlin include the baroque Charlottenburg Palace and 13th-century St. Nicholas Church. The Berlin Wall, built after World War II to divide the city, was finally torn down in 1989, but reminders such as Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie still exist as monuments. Explore Berlin’s many wonderful theaters and museums.
For nearly 200 years, Europeans carried on a love affair with porcelain from China. In the early 18th century, German craftsmen discovered how to manufacture high-quality porcelainware and “china” has been manufactured in Meissen ever since. You have the opportunity to visit a porcelain factory and museum in Meissen to observe as artists at work.
x Martin Luther statue, Wittenberg A World-Class Garden x Hartenfels Castle, Torgau
In the late 18th century, Duke Leopold III of Anhalt-Dessau created a park modeled after the natural-looking gardens he had seen while visiting Britain. The Wörlitz Gardens are among the earliest and best-preserved English gardens on the continent, and since 2000, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a gondola ride through this enchanting landscape.
EXPLORE MORE PRE & P O S T P AC K A G ES
Berlin 2 NIGHTS—$399 PER PERSON
Encounter the historic capital of Germany and see its many landmarks including Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin Cathedral, Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall remains. Explore the city’s vibrant culture, tour one of its many museums or venture to Charlottenburg Palace with its baroque styling and fine gardens. Two nights at the Hilton Berlin (or similar), daily breakfasts and panoramic city tour are included along with the services of a Viking host.
Prague 2 NIGHTS—$449 PER PERSON
Discover the Czech Republic’s lively capital, the “City of a Hundred Spires.” Tour its palaces, churches and museums; visit Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral; take a stroll on the famous Charles Bridge. Explore Prague’s Jewish heritage in the Josefov Quarter and encounter history and culture in Wenceslas Square. Two nights at the Hilton Prague (or similar) and daily breakfasts are included along with the services of a Viking host.
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