THE German city of Dresden is ready to welcome the return of tourists, as the waters of the river Elbe recede and the city repeals its highest state of alert.
“We are greatly relieved that the high water was largely kept away from the city, thanks in no small measure to our excellent and extensive flood defences,” said Bettina Bunge, managing director, Dresden Marketing GmbH.
“These spared the old town of Dresden and the cultural treasures of the city from the worst of the flooding.”
Business continues as usual for the city’s hotels and guesthouses, and scheduled events and performances will proceed as previously planned. Museums in Pillnitz Palace have reopened, which means all the city’s cultural attractions can now be visited.
“For the Dresden hotels and guesthouses, including those in the historic centre, it is business as usual, and we look forward to welcoming visitors…To anyone who asks how they can help, we say: Come to Dresden, visit our beautiful city and attend some of the major cultural activities and events that are due to take place in the coming weeks. There is no reason to cancel any trips you may have planned,” said Marco Bensen, chairman of the board at DEHOGA Dresden and managing director, INNSIDE by Meliá Dresden.
However, it is currently not advisable to visit Meissen, Pirna and Bad Schandau on foot. A small number of hotels and bars/restaurants along the river bank remain temporarily closed. The Saxon Steamship Company fleet and the Elbe ferries will only resume service when the waters of the Elbe fall further.
