Saxony might just be Germany’s most underrated region. Tucked in the country’s eastern corner, it’s home to cultural heavyweights like Dresden and Leipzig, historic trade routes, and some of Europe’s most striking baroque architecture. Known for its craftsmanship, musical legacy, and Christmas traditions, Saxony offers a quieter (but no less compelling) travel experience.
From the palatial skyline of Dresden to hidden mountain villages and castle-studded river valleys, Saxony rewards slow exploration. This guide will help you discover the best of the region through cities, landmarks, and photo-rich highlights.
The Elbe River shapes much of the region, winding past vineyard terraces, castles, and sandstone cliffs before flowing into Dresden. To the south, the Saxon Switzerland National Park lures hikers and climbers with dramatic rock formations, while to the north, Leipzig hums with music, art, and student life. Saxony’s mix of grand cities and tucked-away villages makes it a state that repays slow exploration.
It’s also a region defined by resilience. Dresden’s skyline, once reduced to rubble in WWII, was painstakingly rebuilt. Its palaces, churches, and terraces once again rival Europe’s finest. Meanwhile, Leipzig’s role in the Peaceful Revolution shows Saxony’s influence on Germany’s modern history. This blend of heritage and renewal makes the state one of Germany’s most fascinating to explore.
In Dresden, the Frauenkirche left the biggest impression. Not just the soaring interior, but the climb up to its viewing deck with panoramic views across the city. It’s one of those moments that makes the scale of the reconstruction feel real. On a more intimate level, the Zwinger Palace was just as remarkable, with details so precise it felt like no surface was left untouched. Both make Dresden worth the journey, with plenty left to round out your itinerary.
Cheers!
Eran is a first-generation Canadian with German roots now living in Wales. For over 15 years, he’s traveled across North America and Europe, road-tripping through cities, coastlines, and mountain landscapes. He combines his multicultural background with a keen attention to detail to bring Germany to life for curious travelers. Eran’s writing is rooted in firsthand experience helping you uncover Germany's hidden gems, local traditions, and meaningful cultural experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.