Although many of Dresden’s finest landmarks and architectural gems were badly damaged or indeed razed completely by the Allied bombing campaign of World War II, the city has spent the last 60 years dedicated to rebuilding and restoring many of those structures. The result is that Dresden today is very much a sightseer’s destination with some fantastic buildings that have successfully recaptured the influences of Baroque and Classicistic periods among others.

Elbwiesen
Summertime bring the banks of the Elbe River, or Elbwiesen, to life as locals head here for afternoon picnics, evening drinks with friends, leisurely walks and even outdoor concerts and movie screenings. When the weather’s fine, this is the city’s most happening outdoor location.

Frauenkirche
Another building that suffered considerably from World War II air raids, the Church of Our Lady has since undergone an extensive programme of repair and has been successfully restored to its former glory. Take the walk to the top of the church’s tower to enjoy some great views across the city or simply stay on terra firma and appreciate its impressive dome and other interesting architectural features.

Kreuzkirche
Built between 1764 and 1800, the Church of the Holy Cross is a splendid old building featuring late Baroque influences. The church was badly damaged during World War II but has since been restored. Of note in the interior is a sandstone relief on the wall of the Wedding Chapel bearing the image of Heinrich Schütz, the man hailed as the “Father of German Music”.

Semperoper
Among the city’s greatest architectural treasures, Semperoper is a magnificent opera house (hailed as one of the world’s finest) that has long hosted rousing musical performances and continues to do so on a regular basis. Visitors can experience the true essence of the building by attending an opera. Otherwise they can take one of the guided tours that are offered during the daytime.

Taschenbergpalais
The Allied air raids of World War II all but entirely decimated what was once a magnificent 18th-century palace. Dedicated architects and construction workers have done their best to rebuild and restore the palace, and while its former glory may never be completely attained, what stands today is impressive all the same. The palace, which was originally built by Pöppelmann and Karcher, is now a popular hotel. Among its more distinctive features, the façade is especially notable. Phone: +49 351 4911 705; www.semperoper.de/en/oper/welcome.html.