Historic Green Vault in Dresden--who has been there?! tips pls

I'd start in the Historic Green Vault. It isn't particularly large, but the objects are stunning. That's my opinion; some might find them over the top. If you fall in the group that's disturbed by such excess, you'll have more time for other parts of the complex. I believe there's a porcelain collection (Meissen?). That held little interest for me, but it might be your thing.

To make this clear: You bought timed entry tickets for the Historic Green Vault plus a ticket for the remaining Royal Palace, right? The latter includes New Green Vault, Armoury, Turkish Chamber, Collection of Coins, State Apartments (what's already restored of it), the long gallery (historic guns) and a mix of pieces from the Renaissance. The collection of prints and drawings (Kupferstichkabinett in German) is also stunning, but makes only sense if they have an exhibit (temporary) - unlike you want to see a couple of specific pieces (a Rembrandt drawing maybe?) which they would show you upon request in the showroom. It also includes the visit of Hausmann tower.

I'd say see the Historic Green Vault first, then make sure to walk up the English staircase to the New Green Vault. See the highlights there or what piques your interest. You cannot admire each single piece. Overload.

Then have a look at the Turkish chamber (the historic tents are amazing!), walk through the portrait gallery and the armoury (hall of giants - Riesensaal in German) and have a look at the State Apartments (I like the small Ballroom best.) Just a quick peek into the long gallery for the architecture and decoration. Maybe the clothes from the Renaissance are of interest for you, too.

The small courtyard and the large courtyard are well worth seeing (no entrance fee for them - info desk/ticket office in the former), especially the sgrafitto works and coloured paintings at the balcony in the large courtyard. Also in the large courtyard is the entrance to Hausmann tower - many steps to the viewing platform, but the view is excellent.

Long ago I remember lockers/cubbies for forbidden items, maybe cameras? Read current rules, esp. for Historic Vault, which were stricter. Superb opportunity, make as much time as you can.

Hi Ibrenn, my new friend! Yes, I got timed tickets for both places. Glad I booked in advance because there were only 18 tickets left for my time preference. We found a rental car place out of Munich that opens at 6 am and now will get us to Steiffen earlier so we will have most of the day in Seiffen to enjoy. This will enable us to get to Dresden earlier the next day by noon or 1 pm, to Tour the both Green Vaults and not be rushed. Before I read my RS guidebook, I had no idea about how much history is in Dresden. What is interesting is how this region was the former East German GDR as well as the impact of WW II.

It’s so amazing that when we were looking at 3 days of “what should we do and where to go?” In between events. I totally Bumbled my way North and discovered this amazing area. Thx again for your insight.

Acraven, glad to hear it’s over the top. To see creations like this will be amazing. Can hardly wait.

Hi Mo R, my friend :-) Again, glad to be of some help. Sounds like a very good plan to arrive early in Seiffen. Once you left the motorway it is quite a scenic drive - no matter which route you take. (I guess you'll scratch the southern outskirts of Chemnitz, then via Zschopau and Marienberg.) There is also a lot of see between Seiffen and Dresden - but unfortunately you won't have time for that. If you want a scenic drive take the route via Neuhausen - southern side of the reservoir Rauschenbach - Frauenstein - Dippoldiswalde - Dresden. You must come back ;-)

Thank you again Ibrenn. We have a highway map from the automobile association. A real paper one because if GPS is wrong, or there is no cell coverage in the mountains, I don't want to waste precious time lost in the Ore Mountains. hahahaha. We will look at the map and highlight the routes you suggest.

From what I am learning about this totally accidental tourist moment is that this region definitely warrants another visit. We are really excited to see this mountain area-- we consider ourselves mountain people since we spend alot of time in Lake Tahoe skiing, paddleboarding, mountain biking, as well as supporting local mom and pop businesses-- this area seems like the place to be!