Děčín is a city in the Elbe Mountains, not far from the German border. It is a gateway to the Saxon Switzerland region, famous for its interesting rock formations and deep gorges hollowed out in rocks by streams.
The city is located where the Ploucznica River flows into the Elbe. Established in 1942 by merging the centers on two banks of the river - Děčín and Podmokly. The Old Town with a nice market square is located on the right bank of the Elbe.
Above the buildings is the Děčín Castle standing on a rock. The history of this building dates back to the 10th century, and the present appearance of the building dates back to the 18th century, when it was rebuilt in the Baroque-Renaissance style. The interiors of the castle can be visited with a guide, and within the building there is also a picturesque rose garden.
On the left bank of the Elbe, in the former town of Podmokly, is the Zoo Děčín, which specializes in breeding animals from Europe, Asia and America. Another natural attraction is the Paradise Islands Exhibition, which presents plants and animals from the islands of Reunion, Haiti, Fiji and Celebes. There is also a Regional Museum in Podmokly with exhibitions devoted to the history and culture of the surroundings of Děčín.
Děčín is also a great base for exploring Saxon Switzerland. Not far from here is the beautiful Elbe gorge, as well as one of the most famous rock formations of the Pravicka Gate. Picturesque walking routes with boat crossings can be found in the Dziki Gorge and the Edmund Gorge. In turn, enthusiasts of strong sensations can take advantage of several via ferrata trails located on the left bank of the Elbe.
