TheCity

Tag: budapest

  • Top 3 Post-Covid getaways to banish the lockdown blues

    Top 3 Post-Covid getaways to banish the lockdown blues

    A clear sky and inviting blue water in Favignana, Coast of Sicily. Photo by James Molloy

    With the doom and gloom of the current Covid-19 pandemic, holidays have effectively been cancelled for the foreseeable future. However, when it eventually comes to an end, here are three superb places that should be on your travel bucket list.

    1 ACHILL ISLAND, IRELAND

    Keel Beach, Achill Island. Photo by James Molloy

    To start things off, Achill Island is a close to home destination and is Ireland’s largest island, situated off the west coast of Mayo. It’s a hub for tourists the world over. Famous for its unspoiled scenery, pristine beaches and rich culture, Achill has something for everyone.

    Achill is home to five blue flag beaches, the most well known of which being Keem Bay, which can be found nestled away at the western tip of the island. The clear blue waters of the bay are home to a vast array of fish, basking sharks and dolphins making it the perfect place to go snorkelling in the summer months.

    Keem Bay, Achill Island. Photo by James Molloy

    If hiking is more your speed, then you’re in luck. Towering over the Keem Bay are the Croaghaun cliffs, the third highest sea cliffs in Europe. The imposing mountain of Slievemore can be found to the north east of the Island, and is another favourite spot amongst hikers and history buffs alike due to its deserted village situated on its slopes with a megalithic tomb from the Neolithic period alongside of it .

    Surfing is another immensely popular pastime for locals and tourists, and the best place to do it is Keel beach in the village of Keel. There are many surf schools which offer both surf lessons and surfboard rentals. This beach stretches three kilometres, so it is perfect for a leisurely stroll if surfing isn’t for you.

    The island is also dotted with many cafes, pubs and restaurants serving up hearty dinners, local fresh seafood and perfect pints beside rustic turf-burning open fires. Achill Island contains the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

    Standout memory: Spending the day on Keem Beach relaxing, then spending the night in the Valley House sipping creamy pints of Guinness beside the fire while listening to live music.

    2 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

    Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest. Photo by James Molloy

    Budapest is a city of two halves. Separated by the river Danube are the districts of Buda and Pest. There’s a saying in the city: “If you’re looking up, you’re in Pest and if you’re looking down, you’re in Buda.” Budapest is the perfect city escape on a budget.

    Buda is recognised as the historical old town, full of palaces, castles, and quaint streets. It’s the perfect place to get lost strolling through the streets as you take everything in. The Fisherman’s Bastion is the perfect viewpoint, giving you the perfect view of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge and Pest. This view is exceptional in the dark of night as the parliament building across the water is lit-up.

    The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Budapest. Photo by James Molloy

    For those who want to experience the wilder half of the city, Pest is the place for you. You will be exposed to one of the most vibrant and full-on nightlifes Europe has to offer. It is full to the brim with a wide variety of watering holes from the high-end to the eccentric rune bars which the city is famed for, all serving some locally brewed beer and strong cocktails. There are a multitude of companies offering pub crawls, which can be a fun way to see the city and its bars while also possibly making new friends along the way.

    Budapest is also home to many thermal baths, the best known of which is the Szechenyi Baths. These baths are the perfect place to go and chill and recuperate after a hectic night on the town, with saunas, massage parlours and outdoor pools. The baths often host parties which are a must when in this wonderful city. Budapest is a brilliant city break because of its rich history and fantastic options for nightlife.

    Standout memory: Experiencing the unique ruin bar Szimpla Kert, a disused hospital turned local market by day and eccentric bar by night really embodies the Budapest vibe with a mixture of new and old.

    3 FAVIGNANA, COAST OF SICILY

    Monte Santa Caterina, Favignana. Photo by James Molloy

    Last but not least is a place the majority of people outside Italy may never have heard of — the island of Favignana, found off the west coast of Sicily. This undiscovered gem is the perfect place for someone to escape reality, be it for a few days or a few weeks.

    Favignana’s immaculate beaches and lagoons are the perfect place to unwind and de-stress whilst sunbathing or swimming in the clear unspoiled waters. There are a few to choose from, with Cala Rossa and Bue Marino being the most popular.

    The east of the island is mainly flat, whilst the west of the island is home to a chain of hills, of which Monte Santa Caterina is the highest. There are two main ways of getting around the island, for those who want to take their time and embrace the sights the island has to offer, bicycles are readily available. But, for those who want a faster mode of transport, scooters are the way to go, costing around €20 per day.

    Favignana has a rich history as it has seen the likes of the Phoenicians, Arabs and even the Normans passing through at some stage. The marks they left behind can be seen in the small town of Favignana and around the island. Another historic site on the island is the old tuna factory which can be toured for around €6 per person.

    Favignana is easily accessible from Trapani by ferry with multiple daily departures costing around €20 return.

    Standout memory: Zipping around on a scooter, exploring the island and taking in the breathtaking scenery Favignana has to offer.

  • The best European city breaks

    The best European city breaks

    This slideshow requires JavaScript.

     

    Whether it be a romantic getaway or some fun and frolics with friends, Christmas is the perfect time to book a weekend break in one of Europe’s cities. Stuck for ideas of where to go? Check out The City’s pick of the best European destinations, with plenty of tips and things to do.

    Munich

    “Ein bier, bitte!” First things first, when that plane hits Bavarian soil, you must grab one of Munich’s famous beers. The touristy thing to do is head to the Hofbräuhaus, where you can enjoy some Hofbräu beer together with some traditional Bavarian music and dance. The “Haus” also serves food, however, you can save your euros and grab much nicer bratwurst, or german sausage, on the street. Some other famous beers to try include Augustiner, Paulaner and Löwenbräu. If you’re not a big beer fan, then order a radler, a combination of beer and lemonade that’s very popular in Munich.

    The Englischer Garten, German for “English Garden”, is a large public park in the centre of Munich, and is well worth the stroll. Kleinhesseloher Lake in the centre offers a nice seating area where you can grab a beer and some food, or bring your own picnic. Release your inner child and take a peddle boat out on the lake.

    For the boys and their toys, a trip to the BMW museum is a must. The museum is basically a gigantic showroom, displaying hundreds of models of cars, jeeps, and bikes for you to climb into, or on. Grab a selfie in that red convertible you’ll never afford! If it’s any consolation, the museum is free. Good of them, eh?

    Munich lies at the foot of the Alps, so if you have the time then hop on a train and head to the mountains. Neuschwanstein Castle, “the fairytale castle”, is one of Bavaria’s finest castles to visit, with breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside. With a nice hike up, you’ll even get some exercise in to work off that beer belly.

    Prague

    If you’re looking for a laid back getaway and some “good vibes”, then the Czech Republic’s capital Praha is for you. Old Town Square is a charming place to start, located in the heart of the city. The architecture by itself is pretty eye-catching, but the combination of buskers, street traders and al fresco dining in this cobbled square provides a great atmosphere.

    Known for its great partying scene and never-ending supply of absinthe, nights out in Prague can get quite interesting. For those of you still yolo-ing out there, it is a must that you attempt one of Prague’s infamous pub crawls. The night starts off with a t-shirt and an unlimited supply of some lethal alcoholic mixture that’s impossible to drink. After a quick pep talk with your friends you’ll put your head down and drink it anyway, because hey, it’s free. Nobody really knows what happens after this, and then if you’re lucky you might even wake up in your own hostel the next day. Happy days!

    If you can manage it, a visit to the John Lennon Wall is sure to reach into your soul and soothe your hangover blues. Bring a marker and spread your words of love on the wall, every inch of which is covered in colourful graffiti from the thousands who have come to visit before. Some guy is sure to be killing it on his guitar singing “Let It Be” or “Hey Jude”, so chill out and enjoy!

    Overlooking the entire city is Prazsky Hrad, or Prague Castle, which is well worth the visit for the views alone. If you’re a history head, then the castle is the best place to learn about the city’s past. Some parts are free to the public, if you just want to have a stroll around the castle grounds, while others require a ticket for entry.

    If you’re wondering what that sweet, sugary scent is in the air as you wander around the streets of Prague, then that would be Staroceske Trdlo – a chewy, cinnamon, sugar-dusted pastry. Just try it. That is all.

    Krakow

    Referred to by locals as “The Real Capital of Poland”, Krakow is definitely underestimated when it comes to European cities. Post-communism, it has developed into a cultural hub of excellence – from its exciting galleries and museums to its quality cafés, pubs and nightlife. The Main Market Square, an impressive 10 acre square in the centre of Krakow, is one of its main attractions. Here you will find Kosciol Mariacki, otherwise known as The Church of the Virgin Mary, where a trumpet player sticks his head out of the tower on the hour, every hour, and gives you a tune. Legend has it that during the 2012 UEFA Euros the English team, who stayed in a hotel just around the corner, blamed the trumpet player for their poor performance on the field as he “kept them up all night”.

    If you like walking tours, then Krakow is top of the list when it comes to witty guides and really interesting tours. A general tour of the city will bring you to all the main attractions, such as the hilltop castle. The tour of the Jewish Quarters is particularly interesting. Like most central European cities, Krakow is steeped in WWII history, and this tour gives a great insight into the life of the Jewish community in Krakow during Hitler’s reign. Famous sites include the old ghetto walls and Schindler’s Factory. The infamous Auschwitz Concentration Camp is just an hour outside the city, and buses travel to and from the site daily.

    Budapest

    Hungary is famous for its thermal springs with healing qualities, and you cannot visit Budapest without a few hours of relaxation in the baths. Also known as ‘The City of Baths’, Budapest has many different medicinal baths to try. Széchenyi is one of the best public baths, with both indoor and outdoor baths of varying temperatures and medicinal qualities. If you’re visiting during the summer months then hit it’s famous bath parties for a night you’re guaranteed (not) to remember.

    If you fancy some sightseeing, Gellért Hill offers the best view of Budapest and the river Danube, which separates Buda on the west bank from Pest on the east. Dohány Street Synagogue is Europe’s largest synagogue, and marking the border of Budapest’s Jewish Ghetto, is steeped in the history of World War II. If you take a stroll along the banks of the Danube on the east, you will come across ‘The Shoes on the Danube Bank’, a Jewish memorial for the jews who were ordered to take their shoes off and line up to be shot into the river. You will also find Hungary’s impressive Parliament Buildings along this bank.

    The hop-on hop-off City Bus Tour is probably the best way to get around to all of the attractions in Budapest, working out about €20, the buses come around every 15 minutes and will save you time and walking on a short city break. As for the local cuisine, you cannot leave without trying some traditional goulash, a perfect dish for a cold winters day.