I am a travel newbie and Fodorites have never let me down. I will be in Prague in December and am thinking of going to Dresden. Forgive my ignorance, but are there any issues with crossing the border from the Czech Republic into Germany? Has anyone done this lately. Please share your experiences. Thanks!!

The trains cross the border between Decin and Bad Schandau, but that doesn't give enough time for passport checks, so the police stay on the train from Decin to Dresden, walking through the train checking passports, and customs officers may check luggage. Apart from showing your passport, you'll hardly be aware you're crossing a border - that's assuming your documents are valid.

Geoff is absolutely correct.

Sit on the right side (facing forward) for the best river views northbound.

The Czech Republic is now part of the Schengen Treaty, so no permanent border controls between Cz. Rep. and Germany anymore. Occasionally there are still officers on the trains and you need to show your passport. It's no problem, really.

I did that trip last year or so. Nice train, nice trip.

As others said, there are no particular "issues" with the trip. I suppose someone checked my passport, I don't even remember, as I don't particularly care. If you have a valid passport, what are your concerns, anyway? You shouldn't travel if you don't have a valid passport.