When it comes to beauty and romance, Prague could give Paris a run for its money. This vibrant capital city at the centre of Europe boasts an idyllic riverside location (bisected by the Vltava River), lavish fairytale architecture, and an unforgettable skyline. Pack your itinerary with visits to the haunting Prague Castle, the spectacular Charles Bridge, and the fascinating Franz Kafka Museum. Save a bit of time to get lost in the maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards filled with baroque chapels, unexpected gardens, and quirky bars serving some of the world’s best beer. But it is not just exquisite architecture and tasty ale that make Prague one of the most popular destinations in Europe, it is the hedonistic, whimsical, and excessively quirky attitude of the locals that convinces visitors to return to the magnificent “City of a Hundred Spires” time and time again.
Set near the German border, the famous city of Salzburg is one of the best-preserved city centres in Europe. Its winding cobblestone streets offer a treasure trove of Medieval and Baroque buildings, palaces, concert halls, and monasteries - all set against a picturesque backdrop of the magnificent snow-capped Alps. Visit the house where Mozart was born, and enjoy a packed lineup of operas, concerts and ballets in breathtaking historic halls and venues. The internationally renowned Salzburg Festival, which takes place every summer, provides the ultimate way to enjoy this scene. Fans of the Sound of Music can retrace the characters’ steps backed by stunning scenes and vistas. Make sure to stroll along the beautiful Salzach River, climb up to the spectacular Hohensalzburg fortress, and try the famous, delicious beer brewed at the Augustiner Braustubl, a monastery-run brewery operating since 1621.
Situated in the north of Austria, within an hour's drive of Salzburg, Zell am See is an inviting base from which to explore the extraordinarily scenic natural surrounds. Occupying a peninsula jutting into Lake Zell, the town has an enviable location where activities such as skiing, snowboarding and alpine flights can be enjoyed during winter. Summer brings just as much fun with numerous water sport options on offer and over 200 kilometres of cross-country trails in and around the nearby mountains. A popular highlight is the cable car ride up to Schmittenhohe, the local mountain offering spectacular panoramic views and, if time allows, glacier skiing up the nearby Kaprun. More leisurely options include relaxing at open-air pools, lakeside beaches and promenades, enjoying some fine shopping opportunities and several other apres ski activities.
Resting in the foothills of the magnificent Julian Alps, the Slovenian resort town of Bled lies on the shores of the surreal emerald glacial Lake Bled. Perched high on a cliff overlooking the placid lake visitors can discover the 11th-century picture Bled Castle, the oldest castle in Slovenia home to a chapel, museum, and even a printing press. The undeniable highlight is the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria, crowned by a steep staircase and bell tower set atop a small islet. Explore the network of walking trails traversing this incredible landscape, discover the collection of hidden swimming spots, sample the delicious local Bled Cream Cake, ring the famous Wishing Bell, or enjoy active time biking, hiking, enjoying water sports, and canyoning among the breathtaking natural landscapes.
Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital and largest city, is set on the magnificent Ljubljanica River that gently meanders through the Old Town, providing a picturesque backdrop to the quaint cafes and tempting restaurants that line the banks. This tranquil setting belies a dynamic and fast-growing capital packed with compelling sights and a lively nightlife bolstered by its vibrant student population. Ljubljana is known for its many fascinating museums. These include the National Museum of Slovenia, displaying historical exhibitions, and the Museum of Modern Art, home to 20th-century Slovene paintings and sculptures. While seminal Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik shaped the city’s overall appearance, Ljubljana has also been heavily influenced by the Hungarians, Austrians and Italians. These eclectic influences permeate many aspects of city life, including its food, drink and its myriad architectural styles.
Fondly known as the “Pearl of the Danube”, the unique metropolis of Budapest straddles the banks of this mighty river, occupying perhaps the most dramatic setting of any European capital. Over a thousand years of turbulent history has resulted in an eclectic treasure trove of architectural gems. Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Bauhaus styles are blended together into an architectural goulash that is at once overwhelming and fascinating. Equally diverse are the choices of activities: take a relaxing soak in one of the many sumptuously decorated bathhouses; explore the incredible maze of caves that lie beneath the streets of this ancient city; or take a nostalgic joy ride on the number two tram which tours all the big sights. Throw in some world-class museums, a vibrant nightlife, and a sophisticated culinary tradition and it is easy to see why Budapest is one of Europe’s most underrated cities.
