Berlin, Dresden, Meissen and Colditz for solo travellers
5days from
£1,349*per person
Overview
5 days - Escorted Tours
This tour for solo travellers takes in two of Europe’s great cultural cities, Berlin and Dresden, both having endured violent interludes in an otherwise glittering history and now returned to their former glory at the heart of the new Europe of the 21st century.
The outpouring of joy and energy that accompanied the fall of the Berlin Wall now staggeringly over twenty years ago, has rekindled Berlin’s legendary vibrancy and the city throbs with new life whilst doffing its cap respectfully to the lessons of the past. Here, iconic locations abound from the spy stories of checkpoint Charlie to the magnificent avenue of Unter den Linden with its thriving cafés and magnificent museums, the great monuments of the Brandenburg Gate and the instantly recognisable Reichstag – symbol of the new Germany.
Dresden is perhaps more sedate yet equally revelling in its renewed splendour, architecture, opera and museums - a cultural jewel reborn as a beacon for hope and peace. Before the last war it was Germany’s most beautiful city due to its amazing art treasures and imposing baroque buildings. After huge bomb damage, it has now been almost completely restored after one of the world’s most extensive such projects ever undertaken. Spanning over 60 years, the results are magnificent. But our tour is much more than two cultural cities. We experience the traditional Germany of small towns and picturesque villages too, rolling countryside plus reminders of the former East Germany - even the occasional ‘Trabant’ – and, as you would probably expect, these distinctive cars are rapidly becoming collector’s items!
Another face of Germany is medieval Meissen where the most stunningly beautiful porcelain is crafted by highly skilled artisans in the only factory in Europe where the processes are still completed entirely by hand. Finally, and in complete contrast, we visit Colditz Castle - the famous Second World War Prisoner of War camp for serial would-be escapees including the legless fighter pilot Douglas Bader. This tour contains some fascinating insights to Germany, its vibrant and remarkable cities; striking countryside; and its past, present and future.
This tour can operate in reverse staying first in Dresden for two nights followed by two nights in Berlin. You will experience the same tours and visits.
Itinerary
- Arrival in Berlin - You will be met at your departure airport by our representative before flying to Berlin. On arrival we will transfer to our excellently located hotel, the four-star superior Maritim Pro Arte, where the group can enjoy a relaxing welcome dinner and a chance to break the ice, expertly aided by your tour manager, experienced in delivering the very best tours for solo travellers.
- Berlin - This morning our tour manager will take us on a fascinating tour of Germany’s capital city, Berlin, originally two 14th century towns. Get up close to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, marvel at the majestic Reichstag building, and take in the remaining sections of the infamous Berlin Wall, which has now become a work of art in its own right. During our tour, you will get the chance to sample a traditional Berliner Pfannkuchen, a classic jam-filled doughnut that originated in Berlin (2027 onwards). This iconic local speciality offers a delicious taste of the city's culinary heritage. This afternoon is free for you to explore further with your travelling companions, or strike out on your own. As always, your tour manager will be on hand to help you make the most of your time.
- Colditz & Meissen - After breakfast in our hotel, we will head south through the rolling Saxony countryside to the mighty Colditz Castle, guarding the town atop a river cliff. There will be time to take in the magnificent views of this now-peaceful town and surroundings. Next, we visit the town of Meissen, famous for producing the first porcelain to be made outside of China. We have a remarkable tour revealing how, since 1710, highly skilled artisans have created these unique works of art. Many porcelain pieces take weeks or even months to finish, and in the museum, you can enjoy many of the splendid examples from throughout the company’s existence. After our tour we travel to Dresden for two nights, at our centrally located hotel.
- Dresden - This morning we enjoy an enlightening guided tour of Dresden, an incredibly beautiful city with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It’s hard to believe that the city was almost completely devastated by the allied bombings of 1945 as you stroll past splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings, many of which were destroyed, and then painstakingly restored. In the afternoon, you have the option to explore the city by yourself, or your tour manager can arrange a relaxing boat journey along the river Elbe in the company of like-minded travellers.
- Return home
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
- Enjoy a guided tour of Berlin, where you'll explore Norman Foster’s Reichstag, ‘Check Point Charlie’ and the DDR (former East Germany) Museum.
- Visit some of the worlds finest archeology and fine art museums while touring Berlin.
- Discover Dresden, ‘Florence of the Elbe’, home to one of the world’s greatest art collections and formerly the capital of the Kings of Saxony, through a walking tour.
- Visits to Colditz Castle and medieval Meissen and tour the world-famous porcelain studio.
Our Price Includes
- The price of this holiday is per person based on one person in a double/twin room for sole occupancy. The price includes:
- Return flights
- Four nights accommodation in four-star superior hotels
- Daily breakfast
- All touring as mentioned
- All local accommodation taxes
- Transfers to and from the hotels
- Hotel porterage
- The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
- Included excursions are a guided tour of Berlin, a walking tour of Dresden, entrance to and a guided tour of Meissen porcelain factory and a visit to Colditz Castle.
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Accommodation
Courtyard by Marriott Berlin City Centre -
Beyond the spacious welcoming lobby, enjoy light bites in the coffee shop and international cuisine in the elegant restaurant before a cocktail or two in the stylish bar. Relax at the end of the day in light and bright fully air-conditioned rooms, furnished in contemporary tones with safe, mini-fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Please note the use of air conditioning is at the discretion of the hotel.
Meliá Berlin -
Overlooking the River Spree on Berlin’s celebrated Friedrichstraße, Meliá Berlin offers a stylish and comfortable retreat in the heart of the German capital. Its central location places many of the city’s best-known landmarks within easy reach, making it an ideal base for discovering Berlin’s fascinating history, thriving cultural scene and distinctive neighbourhoods. Inside, contemporary design is complemented by touches of Mediterranean warmth. The spacious guestrooms are decorated in warm, welcoming tones and thoughtfully furnished for a relaxing stay after a day of sightseeing. Guests can begin the morning with a generous breakfast buffet before exploring the city, then return to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine and tapas or unwind with a drink in the lounge bar.
Maritim Dresden -
The four star superior Maritim Dresden hotel has a restaurant piano bar, and a wellness centre with a pool (local charges may be applicable). All rooms are air-conditioned and have satellite TV with pay TV channels, mini bar (local charges apply), telephone, safe and hairdryer. Excellent restaurant, comfortable bar with live music, wellness centre, indoor pool and sauna. Please note the use of air conditioning is at the discretion of the hotel.
Hotel Steigenberger de Saxe -
Beautifully designed, this modern and well-managed property makes extensive use of marble throughout, has a very good quality restaurant, bar and wellness centre. The extremely comfortable rooms are superbly decorated, fully air-conditioned with minibar, safe and tea and coffee making facilities. Please note, the use of air conditioning is at the discretion of the hotel.
Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz -
The 4* hotel is home to a restaurant, bar and lounge as well as a spa and fitness centre and all rooms have free Wi-Fi, free toiletries and a hairdryer.
INNSiDE Dresden -
Contemporary in style and superbly located in the heart of Dresden, INNSiDE Dresden offers an ideal base from which to explore one of Germany's most beautiful cities. Set opposite the Albertinum and within easy reach of many of Dresden's iconic sights, the hotel combines modern comfort with an excellent central location. After a day discovering the city's historic streets, impressive architecture and cultural landmarks, guests can relax with a drink in the bar. Thoughtfully designed throughout, the hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere in the centre of the city. Rooms are spacious, bright and comfortably furnished in a contemporary style, offering a relaxing place to retreat after a day of sightseeing. Modern amenities and generous living space ensure a comfortable stay while exploring Dresden's many attractions.
Other Information
Holiday code
R314Holiday provided by Riviera Travel
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.