Excellence in oncology requires specialized centers covering a broad spectrum of oncological competence and technology. Such Comprehensive Cancer Centers, which in most cases are affiliated with a university, are well established in many countries, particularly North America. But despite their advantages, only few of these interdisciplinary cancer centers have so far been set up in Germany. The establishment of a Comprehensive Cancer Center covering patient care, cancer research as well as education and training in Germany will be discussed using the example of the Dresden University Cancer Center. Consideration will be given to the interests of the different groups involved and to critical success factors such as its mission, interdisciplinary leadership structures, interfaces, responsibilities and quality management.