Nestled in the stunning landscape of Saxon Switzerland, Bastei Bridge is one of Germany’s most breathtaking viewpoints. The iconic stone bridge, built in the 19th century, connects towering sandstone formations, offering panoramic views of the Elbe River and the surrounding national park. The short hike to the bridge is accessible and rewards visitors with dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and stunning photographic opportunities. For those who want to explore further, nearby ruins of Neurathen Castle provide a glimpse into medieval history amid the rugged terrain.

Just a short drive from Bastei, Pirna is a charming town on the Elbe, known for its beautifully preserved medieval old town. Colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings line cobblestone streets, with highlights like the Church of St. Mary and the Canalettohaus, where the famous painter Canaletto once captured Pirna’s beauty in his works. Sonnenstein Castle, perched above the town, offers sweeping views and a complex history, having served both as a fortress and a site of wartime tragedy.