Sure, we could for the umpteenth time write an article about how beautiful Barcelona, Rome and Paris are, which is certainly true, but we would like to present our own personal city highlights in Europe. While these are no insider tips, they are still magical places that spark enthusiasm again and again.
The Austrian capital is top of the list every year, when comparing the quality of life in cities around the world. Vienna does not only convince with its great traffic infrastructure, but also with its extensive leisure and cultural offers. Not only residents benefit from this, but so do tourists. The typical sights of Vienna, which every visitor must see, include: The Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Prater, as well as the Naschmarkt, the Albertina and the Hofburg. Not only is there much to see in respect of cultural and historical sights, but there are also many culinary delights. You should definitely try Sachertorte and Kaiserschmarrn, not to forget Wiener Schnitzel. After a city trip to Vienna you may return with a couple of kilos extra, but these delicious delights are definitely worth having to go on a little diet after your holiday.
Among hipsters, the Finnish capital is no longer an insider tip. For several years now, the subtle charm of this Scandinavian city has enchanted them thoroughly. Art museums and varying architectural styles make Helsinki a cultural gem. Next to magnificent Art Nouveau buildings, the Uspenski Cathedral, the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe in Byzantine-Russian style, and the Senate Square in neo-classical architecture compete for attention. In order not to be overwhelmed, it is certainly worthwhile visiting at least one of the beautiful Finnish public saunas. Their diversity ensures, that there’s something for everyone. One thing’s for sure though, you’ll leave the city wonderfully relaxed. Shopping fans, too, will not feel neglected either. Thus, it is important to have enough space in your suitcase to safely store all your new designer pieces – this way you’ll take some of Helsinki’s charm home with you.
Due to its many different influences, Tuscan cuisine in particular boasts a great variety of tastes. Each meal is accompanied by a traditional taste- and saltless bread (Pane Sciocco), which is excellent for soaking up the last of the sauce on a plate. This way you won’t miss out on the last of the Italian delicacies. Of course, Dolce Vita also includes vino, which in Florence is best enjoyed at sunset in Piazzale Michelangelo. Here, the capital of Tuscany is literally at your feet – the best view in all of Florence. But also in terms of art and culture, Florence is not stingy with its charm. You can walk in the footsteps of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei or Leonardo da Vinci, or simply let yourself be mesmerized by all the historic monuments. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is the city’s landmark. While the outside is already astonishing, the inside is even more impressive. Here, there is a total of 4,000 m2 of wall paintings. The Ponte Vecchio is a superlative of a completely different kind. The shops clinging to the side of the bridge not only give the impression of a city hanging over the Arno, but also make this one of the most beautiful and famous bridges in the world.