Regarded by many as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Budapest (the “Paris of the East” and the “Queen of the Danube”) is fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe, attracting approximately 20 million visitors per year.
Comprised of two very different cities, Buda on the west bank of the Danube River and Pest on the east bank, Budapest offers travelers a Viennese aura at roughly half the price. Still, it is unique in its own right. Hungarians are proud of what this ancient capital has to offer and its contributions to European culture, especially in the field of music—a language one doesn't need to speak to appreciate.
Today’s Budapest is by far the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan city in Hungary. In 1987, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for the cultural and architectural significance of the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue. Most of Budapest’s famous sights are concentrated on Castle Hill on the Buda side, in downtown Pest and along the riverside walkways.
It is hard not to think of music when Salzburg comes to mind. Birthplace of Mozart and backdrop of “The Sound of Music,” Austria’s fourth-largest city is also the capital of the federal state of Salzburg. Salzburg rests at the northern boundary of the Alps and lies on the banks of the Salzach River, where you can take a river cruise to glimpse unparalleled views of the city and its mountain ranges. For those interested in hitting the slopes, Salzburg is in close proximity to great skiing areas.
Salzburg is filled with tourist-friendly destinations and hosts over 4,000 festivals every year, so there will never be a dull moment. Spend at least one day exploring Old Town—the whole town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many of the cities best attractions. The Salzburg Cathedral, a 17th century baroque-style cathedral, is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture. It was the site of Mozart’s baptism. Fans of musicals should definitely take a tour based on “The Sound of Music,” which explores its filming locales throughout Salzburg. Getreidegasse is a great place to go shopping and one of the oldest streets in Salzburg. Be sure to look out for the Marionettenfrau or “puppet woman,” who carries a big brown basket and has been selling puppets since 1987.
Munich is the capital city of Bavaria, Germany's largest federal state (by area). Munich is notable for its architecture and culture, and its annual Oktoberfest beer celebration is world-famous.
However, Munich citizens don't want their city to be known only for its beer, and point out that the Bavarian kings helped Munich become a major center of arts and science in the 19th century. Munich still remains one of Germany's best destinations for art, and has been home to many famous writers, artists, architects and musicians.
Munich is one of Germany's top tourist destinations, owing much to its location. It is within easy driving distance of the Alps, the Czech Republic, Italy and the Mediterranean, Austria and some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. Add to its benefits beautiful architecture, (especially Baroque and Rococo), green countryside, the second-largest university in Germany, top-notch museums and the greatest beer culture on the planet, and Munich becomes a city not to be missed.
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, full of impressive architecture, lovely canals that criss-cross the city, great shopping and friendly people (who nearly all speak English). There is something for every traveler’s taste here, whether you prefer culture and history, serious partying or just the relaxing charm of an old European city.
The city is known for its historic port, the sprawling Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, the beautiful concentric canals, and the red-light district (De Wallen) and its liberal coffee shops (which sell cannabis). Other attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, the old Heineken Brewery and NEMO, the largest science center in the Netherlands.
During the Dutch Golden Age, Amsterdam was one of the most important ports in the world, and it became the leading center for finance and diamonds.
The city was founded in the late 12th century as a small fishing village, and has grown to become the largest city in the Netherlands with a population comprised of 177 different nationalities, which makes Amsterdam the most multicultural city in the world.
It is hard to hear the name Casablanca and not instantaneously think of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, but it is easy to remember the colorful and exotic portrayal of this Moroccan city. Why not see it for yourself?
Located in western Morocco, Casablanca is considered the country’s economic capital, as well as its largest city. The city is easily characterized by its extremes: rich and poor, trendy and seedy, culturally rich and plagued by vice. But with a little common sense and solid travel advice, you can explore the wonders Casablanca has to offer. Visit the Hassan II Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world (and the largest in Morocco). Cruise the Corniche, a neighborhood on the ocean that used to be a thriving resort area. The architecture alone is enough to draw tourists from near and far—buildings in the French period New Town were created in a style derived from Hispano-Mauresque and Art Deco styles. For a unique experience, stop by Musée du Jadaïsme Marocain (the Jewish Museum), the only Jewish museum in the world to be found in a Muslim country.
Madrid is the capital of Spain and is located on the Manzanares River. The city is considered by many as the world center of bullfighting.
Aside from its famed bullfighting hosted at the largest Plaza de Toros (bullring) in Spain, Madrid is known for its array of art museums such as Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Musem), which includes exhibits that display the city’s cultural and artistic heritage. Madrid is also famous for its architectural art, like the Palacio Real de Aranjuez, which houses a collection of medieval weapons and armor.
Other major tourist attractions include Puerta del Sol, the Plaza Mayor and Plaza de Colón. To purchase some traditional crafts or artwork, walk along the upscale shops on Gran Vía, which is one of the main shopping streets in Madrid. Or ride a Segway (personal transport device) past the chic restaurants and historical buildings along the streets of Madrid on a Madseg tour.
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, as well as its largest city. Known for its thrilling nightlife, the city has recently been recognized as an important European gambling center, due to its two huge casinos. However, Lisbon has much to offer visitors of all ages in terms of culture, natural features and man-made buildings and monuments.
The heart of the city is the Baixa (Downtown) or city center; this area is being considered for UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The Castle of São Jorge and the Lisbon Cathedral are located on one of the seven hills of Lisbon, to the east of the Baixa.
Other popular sights include Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square), the richly-decorated Church of São Roque, the Belém neighborhood and the Elevador de Santa Justa, an elevator in Gothic revival style that offers great views of the city. Lisbon is also home to the largest oceanarium in Europe and several world-class museums.
Overlooking the entire city is Cristo Rei, a huge white statue of Christ with open arms. It is a replica of the Corcovado monument in Rio de Janeiro, and offers breathtaking views of the city (at a cost of 3 euros to ride the elevator up).
