what to expect on our christmas tours

 Dresden Christmas Walking Tour – Discover the Magic of Advent
Experience Dresden at its most enchanting time of year! During Advent, the entire city transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with festive lights, traditional crafts, and the irresistible aromas of Saxon Christmas treats. Join us on a magical walking tour through Dresden’s historic Old Town resplendent with its famous Christmas markets.
What to Expect: Our tour begins at Schlossplatz, at the statue of King Friedrich August I. Here, you’ll receive an introduction to Dresden, capital of Saxony, and its rich history. Enjoy the view from the Augustus Bridge or the Brühl's Terrace. 

We continue through the Altstadt to the Theaterplatz with the magnificent Semper Opera House. Learn the fascinating story of this architectural gem, its destruction, and its spectacular reconstruction. At Christmastime, the opera hosts beloved seasonal performances such as The Snow Queen and The Nutcracker.
Next, discover the Zwinger, once Augustus the Strong’s grand orangerie. Hear how it evolved into one of Dresden’s most impressive Baroque complexes and houses priceless masterpieces, including Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and Liotard’s Chocolate Girl.
At Taschenbergpalais, you’ll hear the dramatic love story of Countess Cosel before stepping into the Residenzschloss courtyard to admire its impressive sgraffito decorations.
Our walk continues to the famous Procession of Princes, the world’s largest porcelain mural, depicting 800 years of Saxon rulers. Behind it, the Stallhof hosts a wonderfully atmospheric medieval Christmas market with jugglers, musicians, and traditional fare.
Then we arrive at Neumarkt, dominated by the breathtaking Frauenkirche. Destroyed in World War II and rebuilt through donations, it now stands as a symbol of peace. The surrounding market recreates Dresden around 1900, with artisan stalls, mulled wine, and festive lights.
Finally, we reach the highlight of the season: the legendary Striezelmarkt on Altmarkt Square. Celebrating its 591st edition, it is one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. Learn the story behind the famous Dresden Christstollen—made buttery thanks to the historic “Butter Letter” from the Pope—and try it freshly baked. Explore traditional crafts from the Ore Mountains, including nutcrackers, pyramids, incense smokers, wooden miners, gingerbread from Pulsnitz, and Moravian stars from Herrnhut.
A True Saxon Christmas Experience: Stay on after the tour to Immerse yourself in the sounds, scents, and flavors of Advent in Dresden. Enjoy mulled wine, grilled sausages, roasted almonds, Kräppelchen, and sweets that have been cherished for generations. This walking tour is the perfect way to experience the heart and soul of German Christmas traditions.

Contributed by Marion.