The Happy Jetlagger

Tag: City breaks in Europe

Looking for ideas for a weekend getaway? Or do you just want to explore another city? City breaks are super convenient within Europe. Many destinations can be reached quickly and cheaply by train, plane, bus or car.

Here on the blog you will find lots of tips and unusual locations for an eventful city trip.

Palma de Mallorca | Berlin | Dresden | Nuremberg | Graz | Salzburg | Rome | Venice | Naples | Barcelona | Porto | Lisbon | Aberdeen | Zagreb | Tirana | Gdansk | Wroclaw

  • Ljubljana in One Day: The Best Things to Do

    Ljubljana in One Day: The Best Things to Do

    Maybe you are on a road trip in the Balkans or just want to get to know a new city? The Slovenian capital is perfect for a short trip. I’ll show you which sights you can discover in Ljubljana in one day and give you my tips for a fairytale destination that has taken my heart by storm!

    History of Ljubljana

    Ljubljana has a turbulent past, and it’s hard to believe just how much history is packed into this relatively small capital city with a population of just under 300,000. The first pile dwellings were built here as early as 3600 B.C. Ljubljana gained fame in Greek mythology because the Greek hero Jason is said to have defeated a dragon at the source of the Ljubljanica River after stealing the Golden Fleece. That is why the dragon remains Ljubljana’s heraldic animal to this day and appears time and again throughout the cityscape.

    Art banners between buildings in Ljubljana under a blue sky
    Baroque obelisk with sculptures in front of a white municipal building

    The Romans later founded the settlement of Emona here in 14 AD, but it disappeared from the scene again after the Slavic invasion around 600. Today, for example, the street name Emonska cesta in the middle of the old town reminds us of this.

    In the course of history, Ljubljana has been Austrian (the German name of the city, “Laibach”, comes from this period), Italian, French and, in a very inglorious part of its history, German, as a result of political wrangling, world wars and the occupations associated with them. In 1945, Slovenia became part of the People’s Republic of Yugoslavia; in 1991, it became the first of the Yugoslav republics to gain independence and, apart from a ten-day war, was largely spared the hardships of the Yugoslav war.

    Ljubljana Castle

    Sights in Ljubljana

    Ljubljana Castle

    The Ljubljana Castle towers above the city. You should not miss a visit here! You can easily make the climb on foot: there’s a pretty nice path to the top, which also offers a great view of the entire city and the mountains in the background along the way.

    In places it’s a little steep and I personally thought: better up before eating! On the other hand, you’re also providing a bit of a daily workout. If you are lazy or prevented from walking for other reasons, you can also take the funicular that leads to the top of the mountain.

    Buy the combined ticket for the castle and observation tower, the exhibitions & the funicular railway* here

    Ljubljana Castle
    View Ljubljana castle
    Sunny café terrace at a historic castle with a panoramic view of the city

    Once at the top, you can see the castle itself from the inside as well as the spectacular view. There is, for example, a museum on Slovenian history, a puppet theater museum and various temporary exhibitions. In summer, open-air events are often held in the castle courtyard.

    Panoramic view of Ljubljana with red roofs and mountains

    You can also take a break up here: There are several cafes and restaurants on the castle grounds. If you like it very elegant, you will even find a star restaurant here with the Strelec.

    Panoramic view of a city with hills and trees
    Woman wearing sunglasses against a city skyline and green trees

    Dragon Bridge

    The Dragon Bridge is another landmark of Ljubljana and reminds with the dragons of the founding story from Greek mythology. The dragon sculptures were created in the period of the Viennese Secession and with their Art Nouveau character fit perfectly into the charming old town of Ljubljana.

    Waterfront Promenade

    You should also plan an extensive walk along the waterfront promenade on the Ljubljanica. Here you will find many cafés and restaurants where you can really enjoy the picturesque atmosphere of Ljubljana.

    The Ljubljanica River and the historic Old Town of Ljubljana, Slovenia

    The Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, who also designed many other buildings in Ljubljana and played a major role in shaping the city’s overall appearance, is responsible for the successful design of the waterfront promenade. His urban planning concept is still evident in Ljubljana today, and in 2021, his work there was even added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition to the riverside promenades and the bridges over the Ljubljanica River, the World Heritage Site also includes, for example, the Slovenian National and University Library.

    The Ljubljanica River with the Old Town and trees in Ljubljana
    Boat ride on the Ljubljanica River with a historic Old Town riverside promenade
    A bustling old-town street lined with cafés and historic buildings
    Ljubljana's Old Town with the castle on the hill overlooking the river

    Boat trip through Ljubljana

    A boat trip on the Ljubljanica is also particularly worthwhile. The boat trip takes about 45 minutes and you just sail up and down the river – which I imagine is really romantic with the view of the enchanting old town and the castle. Definitely a must-do for my next visit.

    Tip: With the Ljubljana Card*, you not only get free entry to the most important museums and galleries in Ljubljana, a guided city tour, a rental bike for 4 hours and a ticket for the cable car to Ljubljana Castle, but also a free boat trip!

    Advertising / *affiliate link

    The Ljubljanica River by boat and Ljubljana's historic Old Town

    Other sights in Ljubljana

    I had to postpone many sights until a next visit. To explore the whole of Ljubljana in just one day is not easy after all. (I would recommend at least two days in the city for a short trip). I haven’t seen some of the locations, but I’ll list them here anyway; maybe you’ll make it!

    Tivoli Park is one of the many green spots in and around Llubljana. The large green park also houses several museums. To get there from the Old Town, you just have to follow the Jakopič promenade to Tivoli Castle, which, by the way, was also designed by Jože Plečnik. You can be there in 15 minutes on foot.

    Central Market The Central Market is another work by Jože Plečnik and consists of a marketplace as well as several market halls. Here you can find everything from fresh local produce and traditional food to handmade souvenirs. The market complex is open every day except Sundays and is definitely on my list for my next visit to Ljubljana!

    I really want to explore Metelkova Mesto, the alternative cultural center, again in the evening. Many cultural events take place here, there are concerts and clubs. Nearby is also the Metelkova Museum of Contemporary Art, the Slovenian National Museum of Contemporary Art.

    A bustling town square in Ljubljana featuring City Hall and an obelisk

    Where to eat in Ljubljana

    I was very surprised by the range of exciting locations in Ljubljana! Going out for a good meal or finding nice cafes is really no problem here. Nevertheless, I have brought a few tips for you, so that you already have a first clue for your trip to Ljubljana.

    Vigò Judging by the queue outside the door, this place must have the best ice cream in Ljubljana. In any case, it is really delicious. Tip: If you don’t fancy a long wait at the branch in Mačkova ulica, there is another branch, Vigò Sorbetto , which is somewhat hidden but still centrally located between Congress Square and the waterfront promenade.

    A hand holding a Vigò ice cream cone with two scoops in the city
    Vigò Ice Cream, an ice cream shop with a black sign and a canopy

    Ljubljanski dvor Here you can get solid pizza, pasta and salads. The real attraction, however, is the terrace directly on the waterfront: the view from this vantage point is unbeatable. Perfect location to soak up the atmosphere of Ljubljana on a sunny day.

    Pizza with vegetables and two Aperol Spritzes on a wooden table
    A bustling outdoor restaurant café in front of a historic red building

    Fancy more city breaks in Europe?
    Then get inspired by my ideas for a short trip here!

    Glass display case featuring a variety of artfully crafted pastries

    Day trips from Ljubljana

    Not only is Ljubljana beautiful, but the rest of Slovenia also offers a variety of great places that are well worth exploring. Outdoor and nature lovers in particular get their money’s worth here. High mountains, enchanted caves, crystal clear lakes and a lot of untouched nature make Slovenia a popular destination.

    Ljubljana sights mountains at sunrise

    The good thing is that the distances are short. With only 2 million inhabitants and an area of just over 20,000 square kilometers, Slovenia is one of the smallest states in Europe.

    A trip to Bled from Ljubljana is especially worthwhile. St. Mary’s Church, located on an island in the eponymous Lake Bled (Blejsko jezero in Slovenian), has become Instagram-famous and attracts visitors from all over the world. You can also take a small wooden boat to the island and take a closer look at the pilgrimage church. Especially popular there is the ringing of the so-called “wish bell“.

    Book the excursion to Bled here*

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    Arrival to Ljubljana

    Ljubljana has a small, but still very modern airport. Direct flights are available, for example, with Lufthansa* from Frankfurt or Munich.

    Check here the flight connections to Ljubljana*.

    Ljubljana is just a stone’s throw away by car from Munich or many cities in Austria. The travel time from Munich is about four and a half hours. (Attention: Tolls will be charged on the way!)

    But Ljubljana is also easy to reach by train: From Munich’s main station, for example, there is a direct connection via Salzburg, which, by the way, is also very worth seeing. (Maybe you want to make a stop there, too? Here you can find my tips for Salzburg).

    Accommodation in Ljubljana

    I didn’t have to worry about the overnight stay in Ljubljana, because I was there on business. However, I’ve researched a few beautiful locations for every budget that you might enjoy as well.

    Budget

    Ibis Styles The Fuzzy Log* The Fuzzy Log is uncharacteristically a hostel for an Ibis Styles hotel, but the concept sounds very interesting; especially if you don’t want to spend a lot. Although there are only shared bathrooms, there are still some private accommodation options in the form of so-called “huts”. In good weather, the tent constructions on the roof are also an option.

    Boutique

    Bloom Hotel* The Bloom Hotel has recently opened and is located in the middle of the old town. It doesn’t get more central than this!

    Upscale

    Hotel Heritage* If you want to treat yourself, I would recommend Hotel Heritage. Not only the location in the middle of the old town is unbeatable, but also the ambience of the renovated old building, which perfectly matches the fairytale atmosphere of the city.

    Find more accommodations in Ljubljana here*

    A modern hotel restaurant with a bar, wooden walls, and an elegant interior
  • Hotel Review: The Westin Hamburg

    Hotel Review: The Westin Hamburg

    To be honest, I’m still debating whether I should really recommend The Westin Hamburg as a hotel for a trip to Hamburg. It’s just too tempting that you make yourself really comfortable in one of the great rooms with panoramic view and forget all about sightseeing in one of the most exciting cities in Germany! 🙂

    Modern hotel room with a panoramic window and a view of the harbor

    More tips for Hamburg:
    Hamburg Food Guide: restaurants, bars and cafés
    Must-do: harbor cruise in Hamburg

    The Westin Hamburg: Location & Arrival

    Located at the tip of the Speicherstadt, The Westin Hamburg is the perfect starting point for a city trip to Hamburg. From here you are quickly in the city center, but also in St. Pauli, the Landungsbrücken and the Schanzenviertel. There is a subway and bus stop within walking distance, and with a Hamburg Card* you can use public transport in Hamburg free of charge. If you arrive by car, you can conveniently park it in the hotel’s underground parking garage for an additional fee.

    This is what a stay at The Westin Hamburg costs*

    Hamburg's Speicherstadt with its canal and historic brick warehouses

    Tip: The Elbphilharmonie

    Getting lost on the way to The Westin Hamburg is nearly impossible: the hotel is located in Hamburg’s newest landmark, the Elbphilharmonie building, which you can spot from afar.

    The Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, with its glass facade, against a blue sky

    The Elbphilharmonie is the new concert hall in Hamburg, opened in 2017 and is one of the most modern of its kind. The acoustics here are said to be unparalleled. Unfortunately, I haven’t gotten around to attending a concert here yet, but it’s definitely still on my wish list. If you’re not so keen on classical music, that’s no problem either: there’s often more modern music for your ears!

    Elbphilharmonie Hamburg Plaza with curved glass walls and visitors
    Visitors in a modern tunnel with oval cutouts in the white ceiling
    View of the Port of Hamburg from the Elbphilharmonie

    The rooms at The Westin Hamburg

    The Westin Hamburg* is a five-star hotel that can easily be described as luxurious. So it is not surprising that the rooms are really perfectly equipped. Here you’ll find everything you need: mineral water for free, a small Nespresso machine for coffee in between, a good steam iron to freshen up your crumpled clothes (the flight attendant in me comes through again) and many other nice little things. But above all, well, an absolutely perfect bed that you could snuggle up in for hours.

    Modern hotel room with a white double bed and a panoramic window

    The highlight is the panoramic view from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Elbe and the gigantic Hamburg harbor, if you have a room facing outward (the extra charge is worth it!). My room also had a large bathroom with a shower and bathtub – also with a view. And that was really spectacular.

    Woman Relaxing in a Luxury Hotel Bathtub with a Panoramic View of the City
    A woman in a bathrobe prepares the bathtub in a bright hotel bathroom
    A woman in a bathrobe looks out from a hotel bathroom with a panoramic view of the city
    A woman in a bathrobe is sitting on the edge of a bathtub with a view of the city

    The Westin Hamburg offers various room categories; I stayed in the“Studio”category. But you should also have a similar view from the Premium rooms labeled“Water View.”I recommend paying the extra charge for a higher room category, because the view is truly breathtaking—and the higher up you stay, the better it gets.

    Paddle steamer on the Elbe River in the Port of Hamburg

    In the larger rooms, you also have the chance to enjoy a not insignificant gimmick! In modern hotel buildings, it often happens that you can’t open the windows and everything is air-conditioned. At The Westin Hamburg, however, some rooms have a small porthole that is cleverly built into the mirrored window frames. Very unusual, but so you can still sniff fresh air even on the 18th floor!

    Check rates & availability at The Westin Hamburg*

    View through a window of the Elbphilharmonie of the Port of Hamburg in the rain
    Photographer Captures the Port of Hamburg Through a Curved Glass Facade

    Food Drinks

    There are certainly one or two options close to the hotel, but I only saw uninspired tourist traps as far as cafés and restaurants were concerned. The Speicherstadt is rather touristy and not very lively in terms of everyday life. But you are well taken care of at The Westin Hamburg itself!

    A set breakfast table with juice, food, and a vase of flowers

    The breakfast buffet is plentiful and really good, and there’s even a completely separate section with vegan options. The breakfast area is located on the lower level of the building, and I think it’s due to the building’s architectural history as a former warehouse that, unfortunately, you won’t find a panoramic view with huge floor-to-ceiling windows here. However, there is a small outdoor terrace with a view, so it’s best to come during the least popular breakfast times so you can snag a spot there.

    Fresh baked goods and muffins in a wooden basket at the bakery

    By the way: Breakfast is available here until 11 am, on weekends even until 12 noon. If you still can’t make it out of your comfy bed, you can order your personal breakfast selection to your room via room service; it’s sinfully expensive, but you can enjoy your great room view even longer and avoid the hustle and bustle in the breakfast area when the hotel is busier.

    Toasted bread with smoked salmon and dill at a restaurant

    For a drink or coffee, check out the Blick Bar in the hotel lobby. Here, you’ll be on the same level as the Elbphilharmonie’s observation deck, which you can visit even if you’re not a hotel guest (though you may have to wait in line). I highly recommend the house cocktail, the Elphi Spritz, as well as the Signature Duo —a glass of champagne paired with a fish brioche.

    For the big appetite in the elegant ambience there is still the restaurant Fang und Feld.

    A pink cocktail with ice cubes in a wine glass with a straw

    Spa & Wellness

    As you’d expect from a Westin, there’s a fairly large wellness area here in Hamburg, located on the lower level of the building. Equipped with a pool, sauna area, and a small gym, you can relax to your heart’s content. I haven’t tried the spa area myself, but I did take a quick peek inside and found it very inviting.

    A woman in a bathrobe cleans her face with cleansing foam
    A woman in a bathrobe blows soap bubbles at the camera

    Service

    Because of my line of work, I’m always on the lookout for the little things that make for great service. And of course, given the scale of a hotel like this, there’s nothing to complain about—the service runs like clockwork in every area. Still, there are a few small details that leave a positive impression, such as the customary turndown service in the evening with chocolate hearts on the bed or the attentive staff at the Blick Bar.

    White Westin hotel slippers on a white bath mat

    All in all, The Westin Hamburg is a perfect choice if you are looking for comfortable accommodation with high standards and want to impress someone else (or yourself) with a spectacular view of Hamburg!

    Book The Westin Hamburg here*

    A woman in a bathrobe looks out from the balcony at the nighttime skyline
    A woman in a bathrobe takes photos of the city lights at night from her balcony

    Transparency: The Westin Hamburg invited me to this stay.

  • Hamburg Food Guide: The Best Restaurants, Bars & Cafés

    Hamburg Food Guide: The Best Restaurants, Bars & Cafés

    As a vibrant metropolis, Hamburg has a lot to offer in terms of gastronomy. You’ll find a brilliant mix of exotic cuisines, new concepts and endless creativity. The only problem: It can be hard to choose a location, because the choice is huge! To make it easier for you to choose for your next trip to Hamburg, I present my current favorite restaurants, bars and cafés in Hamburg in this food guide.

    Pasta Autentica by Jill

    Pasta Autentica by Jill is located just around the corner from Hamburg City Hall, yet tucked away in a small side street – the perfect spot for a city lunch between shopping and sightseeing. The store itself is not particularly large (reservations are a good idea!), the kitchen probably not either: The eponymous fresh pasta is namely made in the shop window on what feels like half a square meter in a corner of the guest room!

    Production of fresh pasta in restaurant in Hamburg
    Pasta production at Pasta Autentica by Jill in Hamburg
    Pasta doesn’t get any fresher than this: The small pasta corner at Pasta Autentica by Jill

    At your leisure, you can watch the cheerful pasta fairies as one ravioli after another is lovingly filled and only a short time later lands on the plates of the guests. This fact alone (and how incredibly neat they are in such a small space) would have earned Pasta Autentica by Jill a spot in my food guide – but it came to pass: my salmon ravioli in pistachio butter was so delicious that I was completely blown away. Absolute recommendation!

    Pasta Autentica by Jill, Börsenbrücke 5/7, 20457 Hamburg (city center)

    Fresh pasta in restaurant in Hamburg
    Among my favorite restaurants in Hamburg far ahead: Pasta Autentica by Jill

    Frau Dr Schneider’s Grilled Cheese Wonderland

    Bread, cheese and a grill: the most delicious things can be so simple! The pink Frau Dr. Schneider’s Grilled Cheese Wonderland gives grilled cheese sandwiches that little bit extra! My favorite was the Bacon Jam Grilled Cheese – the bacon jam made with their own recipe was so delicious! By the way, bring an appetite, such a sandwich is really a whole meal!

    Dr. Schneider’s Grilled Cheese Wonderland, Seilerstraße 40, 20359 Hamburg (St.Pauli)

    Grilled Cheese Sandwiches in St.Pauli
    Grilled Cheese Sandwiches in Perfection on St.Pauli

    Helpful information for your trip to Hamburg

    To read:
    All blog articles about Hamburg
    Where to stay in Hamburg:
    Find the best hotel deals*
    Must-do:
    Harbour tour in Hamburg
    Free bus and train travel & discounts for sightseeing:
    Hamburg Card*

    Marshall Street Coffee

    Admittedly, I’m not a very big fan of French toast: too buttery, too monotonous. I don’t know what possessed me to order a French toast at Marshall Street Coffee that day. Possibly, however, it was also the premonition that it would be really difficult to find something here that didn’t excite me.

    French toast with fruit and detox juice in café in Hamburg
    Not only delicious, but also perfectly served: French toast at Marshall Street Coffee in Hamburg

    In summary: French toast was great, the fresh juice too & great store anyway! Tip: Don’t be put off by queues at the door. It’s worth it!

    Marshall Street Coffee, Schopenstehl 30, 20095 Hamburg (city center)

    A wooden shelf with colorful magazines next to a staircase
    A colorful flower arrangement in a glass vase hangs from the ceiling

    Elbgold

    As a port city, Hamburg was the first port of call for exotic goods from overseas centuries ago. So it’s no surprise that good coffee is easy to find: At the roastery in the Schanzenviertel, you can not only taste the in-house coffee, but also take it home with you.

    Elbgold, Lagerstraße 34c, 20357 Hamburg (Schanzenviertel)

    Coffee roastery in Schanzenviertel in Hamburg
    The Elbgold roastery in the Schanzenviertel district

    Mutterland

    I only stumbled into the motherland by chance, because I had to kill a few hours at Hamburg’s main train station – and it’s not really inviting. Quite the opposite of the Mutterland, a real Hamburg institution.

    Sign with opening hours in the restaurant in the Mutterland Stammhaus in Hamburg
    Bar at the Mutterland Stammhaus in Hamburg

    Actually a delicatessen: in addition to delicacies from local manufacturers, there is also a great restaurant here. On the one hand, there is a take-away area with seating (a good opportunity to work), and on the other, a really good restaurant that is quite busy – be sure to try it out! There are also four other locations, including one in Eppendorf.

    Mutterland Stammhaus, Kirchenallee 19, 20099 Hamburg (St.Georg)

    Bowl with muesli and fresh berries at Mutterland
    Delicatessen at the Mutterland
    Delicatessen shopping at Mutterland

    Mimosas Brunch Club

    Either way, Wexstraße is a good place to go if you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere in Hamburg’s city centre. Here you’ll find cute stores, small restaurants and great locations such as the recently opened Mimosas Brunch Club.

    Mimosas Brunch Club in Hamburg
    Mimosa at Mimosas Brunch Club in Hamburg
    Mimosa’s Brunch Club in Wexstraße

    Mimosas Brunch Club is, as the name suggests, a great idea for an extensive brunch for two or with friends, but also for a small coffee break with delicious waffles. And if you can’t get enough of the fruity mimosas, there’s even a mimosas flat rate!

    Tip: Despite new opening very popular, on weekends you should reserve!

    Mimosas Brunch Club, Wexstraße 27, 20355 Hamburg (city center)

    Waffles with fruit at Mimosas Brunch Club in Hamburg
    Mimosas Brunch Club in Wexstrasse

    La Casita

    With tacos it is such a thing, I think. Eating tacos completely drip and spill free just won’t work for me. Especially not with the tacos from La Casita, because they are so well filled!

    Tip: The tacos are the perfect snack when the flea market takes place around the small snack bar on Saturdays, a really good flea market with lots of vintage treasures.

    La Casita, Neuer Kamp 30, 20357 Hamburg (Schanzenviertel)

    Mexican taco with pulled pork, jalapeños, lettuce, cilantro and lime at La Casita in Hamburg

    Blick Bar

    If the typical fish sandwiches are too mundane for you, or if you are curious about a completely different variant, then I recommend a visit to the Blick Bar. Not only can you enjoy a beautiful view of the city of Hamburg here, but you can also get to the Elbphilharmonie’s viewing platform without having to wait – because the Blick Bar is actually the house bar of The Westin Hamburg, whose rooms are located above the concert hall.

    Fish brioche as a fish roll in Blick Bar in Hamburg

    Be sure to try the signature duo of a glass of champagne and a fish brioche and just take a break from sightseeing. And don’t worry, the Blick Bar is wonderfully unpretentious and relaxed despite all the luxury!

    Blick Bar, Platz d. Deutsche Einheit 2, 20457 Hamburg (city center)

    If you’re in the mood for some pretty extraordinary accommodation: Book your stay at The Westin Hamburg here*

    Elphi Spritz at Blick Bar in Hamburg
    Also recommended: The signature drink Elphi Spritz
    The Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, with its glass facade, against a blue sky

    Many thanks to Hamburg Tourismus and The Westin Hamburg for their support during the research for this article!

  • The Best Markets in Palma

    The Best Markets in Palma

    Planning a quick trip to Palma and interested in exploring Mallorca’s popular markets? The biggest markets are outside the city, requiring extra time to visit. Instead, here are some excellent alternatives right in the capital: the best markets in Palma!

    Weekly Markets & Market Halls in Palma

    A quick visit to Palma is a great opportunity to gather some delicious Mallorcan specialties like ensaimadas, sobrasadas, or Flor de Sal from Es Trenc. Or perhaps you’re craving fresh fruits and vegetables right from the farm. Luckily, Palma offers many spots to pick up fresh produce from local farmers. Besides the lively outdoor weekly markets, you’ll also find several indoor markets full of variety.

    Baskets on market in Palma
    At Palma’s markets, you’ll find traditional Mallorcan goods such as popular wicker baskets in various sizes.

    Mercat de l’Olivar

    The Mercat de l’Olivar is located right in the heart of the city, between the lively Plaça d’Espanya and the pedestrianized Carrer Sant Miquel. The large market hall was opened in 1951 and is one of the most traditional in the city. In addition to the usual market stalls with fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, fish and meat, you will also find small snack bars where you can eat cheaply, especially at lunchtime. Some fishmongers even offer to prepare and serve the freshly purchased fish right on the spot. In addition, you will find culinary souvenirs to take the mediterranean vibe home with you.

    Mon-Fri 7am-2.30pm
    Fri 2.30pm-8pm partly open
    Sat 7am-3pm
    Gastronomy: Mon-Fri until 4pm

    Market stall with sobrasada and ham in the Mercat d'Olivar, a market in Palma de Mallorca

    Here’s a handy tip: If you’re traveling by rental car or your own vehicle, there’s a parking garage located under the Mercat d’Olivar. It can get quite busy sometimes, but it’s really convenient, especially if you’re planning to buy in larger quantities.

    MALLORCA

    Interested in more insider tips and top spots? Click through the pages below for a quick overview!

    Top attractions to see in Mallorca
    An overview of all Mallorca tips
    Top spots to visit in Palma

    Mercat de Pere Garau

    The Mercat Pere Garau is situated in downtown Palma but is tucked away in a typical residential neighborhood east of the Avenidas, which locals refer to as Palma’s ring road. The Pere Garau district has a rich history as an immigrant area, offering an exciting blend of international cuisines and a diverse range of shops nearby the market hall—perfect even for those on a budget. If you want to experience authentic local life, this is the place to visit!

    Fruit stand with oranges from Mallorca in Mercat Pere Garau in Palma

    Tip: right in front of the market hall, you’ll find a lively open-air market that offers different items depending on the day. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, you can discover a great selection of clothes and shoes. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, it’s the perfect place to pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, beautiful flowers, and green plants.

    Saturday is the busiest day at the Mercat de Pere Garau, with more stalls and a lively atmosphere!

    Mon + Wed 6am-2.30pm
    Tue, Thu + Fri 6am-3pm
    Sat 6am-4pm

    Market in Palma: Mercat Pere Garau

    Foodie Hotspot: Boira in Pere Garau (& Great Boutique Hotel!)

    Hungry? Market-fresh cuisine is available very close to the Mercat de Pere Garau. At Boira, you can enjoy modern cuisine in an urban-Mediterranean ambience.
    By the way: the location belongs to the boutique hotel Nou Baleares* & is the perfect address if you’re looking for stylish accommodation away from the usual tourist areas among locals!

    Book Now*
    Restaurant Boira at Boutique Hotel Nou Baleares in Palma de Mallorca

    Plaça del Patins

    The Mercat ecològic de Palma in Plaça del Patins (also: Plaça Bisbe Berenguer de Palou) is one of the smaller weekly markets in the city. But at this market in Palma you will find only organic products! A great opportunity to stock up on fresh organic fruits and vegetables straight from the island.

    Tue + Sat 8pm to 2pm

    Cheese on market in Palma

    Tip: Nearby you’ll find a branch of one of Palma’s most popular coffee roasters! La Molienda on Carrer del Bisbe Campins serves the best specialty coffee and delicious brunch dishes.

    Just around the corner, you’ll find Carrer de Bonaire, a charming street in Palma lined with small boutiques and excellent restaurants, still largely undiscovered by most tourists. Perfect for a little walk!

    Discover the best hotels in the center of Palma

    Advertising / *affiliate link

    Mercat de Santa Catalina

    The Mercat de Santa Catalina is worth visiting not just for its market, but also for the vibrant neighborhood around it. Santa Catalina, centered around the lively market hall, is truly one of the trendiest areas in Palma!

    The area features a succession of popular restaurants, with renovated house facades that give the former fishing village a distinctive charm. Additionally, there’s a historic old mill and breathtaking views of Palma’s port.

    Read my complete guide for Santa Catalina

    Houses in Santa Catalina, neighborhood in Palma
    Café in Santa Catalina, Palma

    Let’s head back to Mercat Santa Catalina! You’ll discover a delightful array of Mallorcan delicacies and a variety of exquisite delicatessen specialties. The quality of the ingredients is so outstanding that even top chefs in town love to shop here. While the market is open six days a week, Saturday is unquestionably the most vibrant and bustling day, full of energy and lively atmosphere.

    Mon-Sat 7am to 5pm

    Mercat Santa Catalina in Palma de Mallorca

    Markets Near Palma

    Did you enjoy those locations? The island features many more fantastic weekly markets!

    Here you will find a list of the most beautiful weekly markets in Mallorca and the exact weekdays of all markets

    Market in Sineu, Mallorca
    The picturesque farmer’s market in Sineu takes place every Wednesday.

    Tip: Just outside Palma, the large Sunday market of Santa Maria is easily accessible by public transport from the city center. At Plaza España’s Estació Intermodal, simply take one of the trains (lines T1, T2, or T3), and you’ll reach Santa Maria station in about 20 minutes, which is conveniently close to the town center.

    Or you can continue to Sineu (line T3) and on Wednesdays visit the oldest farmer’s market in Mallorca, which is one of the biggest attractions on the island. (Travel time from Palma approx. 50 minutes)

    Train timetables from Palma

  • Hamburg: How to Find the Best Harbor Tour

    Hamburg: How to Find the Best Harbor Tour

    When you’re in Hamburg, don’t miss out on a harbor tour! The Port of Hamburg is the third-largest seaport in Europe and has shaped the cityscape for many centuries. The harbor is truly impressive, and a tour is the perfect opportunity to get to know Hamburg from the water. In this article I’ll give you tips for the best harbor tour!

    The Port of Hamburg: The Gateway to the World

    I’ve been to Hamburg countless times, but a harbor tour was still on my to-do list. In a city like Hamburg, whose history has been significantly shaped by the port, a harbor tour is naturally one of the most popular tourist attractions. Various shipping companies offer such tours, sometimes with different focuses. The trips usually start at the Landungsbrücken.

    Hamburg Harbor Tour with a View of the Elbphilharmonie
    A harbor cruise opens up completely different perspectives on the city, like here at the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg’s extraordinary new concert hall.

    Harbour tour in Hamburg: My tip!

    By chance I stumbled towards a small launch, in front of which the captain himself is still checking the tickets. Before I can waste a single thought on the question of whether a harbor tour is really such a good idea with the bad weather on that day, I’m already sitting on the boat.

    Hotels in Hamburg
    Are you looking for accommodation for your trip? That can quickly become expensive in Hamburg! Therefore, book well in advance!
    The best hotel deals for Hamburg*

    Harbour cranes during a harbour tour in Hamburg
    Impressive even in rainy weather: the port of Hamburg with its huge facilities.

    We cast off and just at that moment it rains, storms and snows at the same time. If you are traveling in Hamburg, you have to be prepared for any weather. I’m not very fond of rainy weather but from the boat, you have a good view through the large panoramic roof even in sleet. And in general, I am preoccupied with the view of the many containers, the huge port cranes and the sheer size of the port. The low height of the launch means you sit almost at eye level with the waterline, which makes the view all the more impressive.

    Port facilities during a harbor tour in Hamburg

    Our captain isn’t just a ticket inspector—he’s also a tour guide—and he entertains us with humorous anecdotes in the Hamburg dialect. “Have you always wondered where this mysterious ‘Gateway to the World’ is supposed to be here in Hamburg?” The boat turns, and right in front of me, the Elbe stretches out in all its breadth. There’s no end in sight on the horizon, and for a moment it really feels as if the world is opening up before me.

    The Port of Hamburg with cranes on the Elbe River during stormy weather
    On the wide river Elbe, you almost feel a bit like you’re on the high seas, and the rough weather made it extra dramatic.

    By the way, I recommend you to look for a round trip that also goes to the Speicherstadt (depending on the water level). Gliding between the massive brick buildings by boat is simply an impressive experience.

    Harbor Tour in Hamburg's Speicherstadt with a Historic Bridge
    The rainy weather sometimes flies away as quickly as it comes: In sunshine we sail through the Speicherstadt.
    A sightseeing boat on the river, with a harbor and cranes in the background

    The tour is organized by Reederei Abicht, but this special one-and-a-half-hour harbor tour with a detour to Speicherstadt can only be booked online:

    Book the 1 1/2 hour harbor tour including the Speicherstadt here*

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    What are the harbor tours?

    In general, the harbor tours can be divided into 4 categories:

    1. 1-hour harbor tour On these harbor tours you will see the basics that you should have seen in the port of Hamburg. However, an hour passes by really fast!
    2. Grand Harbour Tour (approx. 1 1/2 to 2 hours) On the longer tours, there is more time for a grand tour: you have many more opportunities to survey the size of the Port of Hamburg and usually learn even more about the history and significance of the port.
    3. Light cruises In the evening, the so-called light cruises* take place. After dark you can experience the port of Hamburg and especially the Speicherstadt at night. Attention: Possibly the lighting is not quite as spectacular as usual due to the current energy saving concept of the city of Hamburg.
    4. Theme and special cruises For special occasions or if you just want something special, there are also harbor cruises with special themes. For example, there are Saturday night cruises with DJs on board* or harbor cruises with Olivia Jones and her crew*(note: always sold out months in advance!!).

    Tip: Make sure that the boat is a launch, because they are low enough to be able to enter the Speicherstadt when the water level is right.

    The Hansa III barge in the Port of Hamburg with cranes

    What sights can you see on a harbor tour in Hamburg?

    A harbor tour is also a great way to see many Hamburg sights at once. Especially if you have little time, a harbor tour is therefore particularly practical! You can see the following sights from the water and combine them with a harbor tour:

    Speicherstadt: The 19th century red brick warehouses are the largest historic warehouse complex in the world! The entire Speicherstadt is a listed building and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the houses are still used as warehouses by traders (e.g. carpets), but you will also find many interesting museums here, such as the Speicherstadtmuseum, the Hamburg Spice Museum*, the Dialoghaus Hamburg*(where people with impaired vision are guided through a very special sensory experience – exciting!) or the Miniatur Wunderland.

    The Historic Brick Building of Halssen & Lyon in Hamburg's Speicherstadt
    The Speicherstadt Canal in Hamburg with historic brick warehouses


    Elbphilharmonie: The concert hall was built on an old quayside warehouse and quickly became one of Hamburg’s most impressive sights with its spectacular facades. The Elbphilharmonie can be admired particularly well from the water.

    By the way: you can enjoy the sensational view of the Elbe from the rooms of The Westin Hamburg.

    Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg from the water


    St. Pauli Landungsbrücken: The Landungsbrücken are not only the departure point for most harbor tours, but also one of the most popular sights on the Elbe. The historic jetty is over 100 years old and a popular meeting place. You will also find the entrance to the Old Elbe Tunnel here – just as worth seeing!

    People are walking through Hamburg's historic Elbe Tunnel


    Container terminals in the port: Hamburg is one of the largest container ports in the world, and you can experience first-hand how containers are loaded and unloaded during your harbor tour – and marvel at the incredible size of the container ships!

    Container in the port of Hamburg

    Tips for planning a harbor tour in Hamburg

    There’s so much to see in Hamburg anyway – organization is key! To make planning your harbor tour easier, I have a few valuable tips for you here:

    • Book in advance: Especially in high season, in good weather and on weekends it can get crowded on the harbor tours. Especially the small boats, which were also through the Speicherstadt, have limited space. Therefore, it is best to book in advance so that your planning is not thrown off.
    • Make sure you have the right clothing: Hamburg’s weather is very changeable and it can get chilly on the water. Many boats are air-conditioned, but it is advisable to bring an extra sweater or similar. On my boat, for example, it was possible to go on deck and there was already a stiff breeze.
    • Route: If you want to see specific parts of the port or have a special area of interest, you can take that into account when choosing your tour. For example, I really wanted to go through the Speicherstadt and therefore chose this tour.
    • Proper timing: You can save a lot of time if you schedule your harbor tour properly. If you also want to visit the fish market on Sundays, for example, I would recommend going to the fish market first thing in the morning and then strolling towards the Landungsbrücken. There you can then, for example, visit the Old Elbe Tunnel and then take the harbor tour at noon. Some tours also offer other exit points, e.g. at the Elbphilharmonie. So you can then directly continue your sightseeing day there.
    • Duration: There are harbor tours of different lengths, from one hour to several hours. Think in advance how much time you have and what sights you want to see to choose the right harbor tour.

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    Launch with roof during a harbor cruise in Hamburg

    How much does a harbor tour cost?

    A harbor tour in Hamburg costs between 15 and 40€, depending on the duration and provider. Special boat tours, e.g. with an evening program like this one*, can sometimes cost more.

    Compare prices of different harbor cruises here*

    The Port of Hamburg with ships and St. Michael's Church in the background

    Budget tip: If you want to save money and don’t mind working out a route yourself, you can simply buy an HVV day ticket and use the regular HADAG ferry lines. There is just no specific info there then and you have to figure out for yourself where you want to go.

    Extra tip for those looking to save: The regular day ticket for the Hamburg AB fare zone (is pretty much all of Hamburg) costs €8.40. However, there is still a cheaper 9 am day pass that excludes rush hour from midnight to 9am Monday through Friday. If you then buy them online (either on the website or in the HVV app), you’ll get an extra discount and pay just €6.60!

    But if you also want to visit lots of sights, it’s worth buying the Hamburg Card: this not only gives you free travel on all public transport around the clock for a period of one to five days, but also lots of discounts at over 150 Hamburg sights!

    Buy your Hamburg Card here in advance*

    The historic sailing ship Peking in the Port of Hamburg
  • Vilnius Food Guide: 7 Locations You’ll Love!

    Vilnius Food Guide: 7 Locations You’ll Love!

    Vilnius is not only an interesting city with an extraordinary history, but also an absolute insider tip for foodies. In this article I’ll show you a few of my favorites among the numerous cafes, restaurants and bars in the Lithuanian capital, but a trigger warning in advance: your mouth will water!

    Vegan food in Vilnius: Rosehip Vegan

    Located diagonally across from the MO Museum, Rosehip Vegan is already in a pretty cool neighborhood. For me, it’s the perfect spot for an “after-art” lunch—especially if you can’t get enough of the amazing exhibitions! As the name suggests, Rosehip Vegan serves delicious vegan cuisine that’s also quite photogenic. The only downside is the huge portions, which make it hard to resist trying everything on the menu right away.

    Tip: For coffee, I recommend you move to the Raštinė located on the opposite street corner.

    Rosehip Vegan in Vilnius
    Colorful Bowl with Couscous, Vegetables, Tahini Dressing, and Sesame Seeds
    Creamy pumpkin soup with cream and sesame seeds in a pink bowl
    Fresh and delicious: The vegan restaurant in Vilnius.

    Vilnius is an exciting destination:
    Find out what else you can do in Vilnius in my big Vilnius guide!

    The cute tea house: Pinavija

    The icy wind whipped through the streets, I was cold, my feet hurt from all the sightseeing (because who would have thought that there really is so much to see in Vilnius!) and actually I just wanted to take a quick break when I stumbled into Pinavija.

    Pinavija Tea House in Vilnius
    Baked pastries with berries on a plate next to orange juice

    But I could have guessed right away that there was another highlight waiting for me, because honestly: In Vilnius, one great location follows the next. Pinavija is a tea house, girl’s dream and cupcake heaven at the same time. In any case, I can highly recommend the mini quiche, but afterwards I was annoyed that I didn’t go for the sweet tartlets with the artfully swirled meringue topping – maybe you can make up for it for me?

    Greek Yogurt Cupcakes with Whipped Cream and Blueberries at the Café
    Three meringue tartlets on a glass stand in a bakery
    Cupcakes at the tea house Pinavija.

    Breakfast in Vilnius: My Favorite

    I would love to show off a very special breakfast location at this point, but the truth is: I didn’t even make it out of my hotel. But that’s no wonder, because breakfast at Hotel Pacai* really is the kind of hotel breakfast that impresses.

    Hotel Pacai in Vilnius
    Hotel Pacai in Vilnius
    Cozy & elegant: Hotel Pacai in Vilnius.

    On the one hand, there is the really attentive and cordial service and the casual atmosphere despite the five stars that promise luxury emblazoned at the entrance, and on the other hand, the offer of a small, fine buffet and various à la carte dishes.

    When it comes to buffets, I’m now part of the “less is more” team: rather a few, but good products, and I’m in breakfast heaven. In general, I didn’t want to leave Hotel Pacai again, and I can highly recommend it to you if you want to treat yourself.

    You can check prices & availability at Hotel Pacai here*

    Breakfast at Hotel Pacai in Vilnius

    Coffee time at Italala Caffè

    Something sweet for in between, good coffee or just a place where you can answer some mails on your laptop in a nice atmosphere? In the cozy Italala Caffè you will find everything at once.

    Italala Caffé in Vilnius

    Sugamour: Sweets for night owls

    Perhaps you should save your sweet tooth for a little longer, because just a few doors down you’ll find one of six Sugamour branches. Is already the facade pompously decorated – inside it continues with the finest petit fours and tartlets!

    The interior design with thousands and thousands of teddy bears takes some getting used to, but somehow it’s also pretty cute. And perfect for night birds: the branch at Vokiečių gatvės is open daily until 11 pm, and even until midnight on Friday and Saturday!

    Sugamour in Vilnius
    Sweet delicacies late into the evening: Sugamour in Vilnius.

    Alchemikas: Booze & Co.

    At Alchemikas, I ended up hanging out with a few nice people—even though it almost didn’t happen. The extensive menu at this classic cocktail bar, perfect for cozy evenings, literally fills an entire book, and I had a hard time choosing between all the delicious, evocative cocktails. The good news: Somehow, everything sounded really, really good, and in the end, I was more than satisfied with my choice!

    Alchemikas cocktail bar in Vilnius

    Amandus: Fine dining in Vilnius

    In itself, it’s unusual that a Michelin-starred restaurant like Amandus is located in the middle of the alternative artists’ district of Uzurpis – but after an evening there, you won’t be able to stop marveling anyway. When chef Deivydas Praspaliauskas flambéed my already appetizing-looking duck breast to ultimate perfection right in front of me at the table, I was convinced: an evening at Amandus is my absolute Vilnius tip for anyone with a taste for good food. And yes, it really is affordable!

    Amandus Restaurant in Vilnius
    Elegant amuse-bouches served on black slate at a fine-dining restaurant
    An elegant fish dish with pickled red onions at a restaurant

    The tasting dinner costs 70 euros, which is really nothing compared to what you would pay for a meal of this quality in many other European capitals – and for a surcharge, there is an extensive wine accompaniment.

    But if you have any preconceptions about the amount of food on your plate and all the fuss, I can reassure you: Firstly, I was more than full after the umpteen courses and explosions of flavor and secondly, the atmosphere at Amandus is pleasantly unpretentious!

    When: Wednesday to Saturday, starting at 7 pm, by reservation only here

    A hand holding an Amandus Spice spice jar next to a golden wine glass
    An elegant restaurant featuring a ceiling installation of dried flowers and guests
    An elegant restaurant interior with set tables and warm lighting
  • City breaks 2025: these cities in Europe are waiting for you

    City breaks 2025: these cities in Europe are waiting for you

    I want to travel more again, get to know new places and rediscover old ones. Is that what you also set out to do? Then my list of ideas for a few great city trips in Europe is definitely something for you! Just save this post somewhere and you can always get ideas for the next spontaneous city trip throughout the year!

    A woman relaxes on a white hotel bed with decorative wall paneling
    More on the road again: we are traveling for all we’re worth.

    Pro tips:
    ➜ Book early to secure the cheapest tickets:     Here you can find cheap flights for your city trips*
    ➜ Explore Europe’s cities by train: Buy your ticket at the super saver price from Deutsche Bahn* in good time
    ➜ The best way to book overnight stays is directly via booking.com*. With just a few bookings, you can move up to a higher Genius level and get better deals

    #1 Rome

    What can I say? Before I tell you about the little insider tips in Rome, you should also have seen the classics in Rome. This city is simply so bombastic and interesting that the usual sights such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain or St. Peter’s Basilica alone are enough to keep you busy.

    Spanish Steps in Rome with view of Fontana di Trevi
    Spanish Steps in Rome

    #2 Seville

    Spaniards are generally Mediterranean, warm and open, but Andalusians really go the extra mile. “Hola reina”, “como estás reina”, “aqui tiene reina” – I really like this Andalusian habit of always being affectionately addressed as “reina”, meaning “queen”. If you’re looking for joie de vivre and positive energy, Seville is definitely the place for you!

    City trip Seville view from Las Setas with view of the Alcázar of Seville

    Tip: Watch the flamenco dancers at the Plaza de España and let yourself be carried away by the passionate atmosphere of a city that is bursting with warmth.

    If you’re looking for a place to stay in Seville, I recommend the Boutique Hotel La Parada de Marques. It’s relatively new, beautifully designed, and the staff are friendly—you’ll love it.

    Boutique hotel in old building with tile floor in Seville
    True to style in an Andalusian old building: My hotel tip for Seville

    #3 Paris

    Oh Paris! This city is just such a classic. Even though it’s super expensive and most people complain about the grumpy and overly proud French. I really can’t understand that, because I rarely find the French or Parisians rude (well, I also live in Berlin, so I have different standards) and if I were French – hey, I’d be pretty proud of this awesome city too!

    Tip: climb the Eiffel Tower during the day(be sure to buy your ticket in advance here*) and admire the glittering Parisian landmark from below in the evening.

    More tips for your perfect day in Paris

    The Louvre in Paris
    If you have time: Be sure to visit the Louvre – also a must in Paris!

    #4 Zagreb

    In Zagreb, I probably experienced the most memorable museum visit of my life: the Museum of Broken Relationships features artifacts from broken relationships. Sounds crazy, and a bit like those tourist museums that are supposed to seem fun, but in the end you’re just annoyed about the money you’ve spent. But it’s very different there, and not only once have the exhibits brought tears to my eyes, whether out of joy or sadness. Definitely worth a recommendation. And Zagreb as a city anyway.

    St. Mark's Church in Zagreb, with the city coat of arms on its roof
    The beautiful roof of St. Mark’s Church in Zagreb

    #5 Graz

    Okay, Austrians are probably rolling their eyes right now, but to me, Graz—along with Salzburg —is one of Vienna’s little sisters. Less crowded, less overwhelming, but still a mix of tradition, culture, and pretty good cuisine. And thanks to its picturesque location on the Mur River and its green surroundings, Graz is perfect for a relaxing city getaway! By the way: It’s absolutely perfect if you stay at the Grand Hôtel Wiesler, which is right on the Mur River in the city and is simply gorgeous!

    Tip: Visit the current exhibition at the Kunsthaus Graz (admire the impressive futuristic building on the side!) and then enjoy the panorama with a glass of wine on the Schlossberg.

    City trip Graz view from Schlossberg
    View of Graz from the Schlossberg

    #6 Vilnius

    Vilnius was, so to speak, my last stop of the year (you can find my article about Vilnius here). When I arrived in Vilnius, winter was already just around the corner, and for someone like me—who’s notoriously sensitive to the cold—that was a real challenge. Still, the mix of history, culture, and a young, open atmosphere was really exciting. And at Hotel Pacai, I had one of the most enjoyable hotel stays I’ve had in a long time. It was relatively quiet in the winter, but from previous visits (admittedly, a long time ago), I can still remember how lively it gets here in the summer.

    Tip: Vilnius is the only city in Europe where you can float over the city center in a hot air balloon.

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    Bar at Lukiskies Prison in Vilnius
    Crazy: The former Lukiskies prison in Vilnius now houses an event space

    #7 Venice

    Venice is always a good idea, and even if Venice is hijacked by tourists in summer – it is still an incredibly fascinating city. The location in the lagoon, the old palazzi, so much art: I’ve actually been to Venice only once, but this was certainly not the last time!

    My advice: Go up to the terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi for sunset & browse the shelves at the Libreria Acqua Alta.

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    View over the Grand Canal from the roof terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice at sunset
    Fantastic view over the Grand Canal from the roof terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi

    #8 Prague

    Last year I unexpectedly ended up in Prague again and was just super happy about the day I got to spend there. Prague is just one of those cities full of history and old glamour and has a very special vibe.

    Tip: Walk across Charles Bridge and take a boat trip across the Vltava River*.

    Tourists stroll across Charles Bridge in Prague
    It can get crowded on Charles Bridge in the summer, even though it’s so wide!

    #9 London

    I don’t know if it’s the upcoming coronation of King Charles III or the hype around Harry and Meghan at all, but London has been dominating my Instagram feed lately as far as major cities in Europe go! Well, London always works anyway – so why not consider it for this year?

    Tip: Pick up the London Harry Potter vibe at platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross station & then sip champagne at the bar right next door at St.Pancras station.

    Champagne Bar at St. Pancras Station in London
    Très chic: The Champagne Bar at St.Pancras Station

    #10 Gdansk

    I’ve been to Gdansk a few times and rediscovered some great locations there. For example, it was my first time on the site of the old Gdansk shipyard – and it was so exciting! I hope to go there again in the spring or summer. That’s when the huge crane is open, from where you have a really good view over the city.

    More tips & sights in my Gdansk Guide

    City trip to Gdansk on the Vltava River
    Especially in summer, the location on the Baltic Sea is worth its weight in gold: in Gdansk you can perfectly combine sightseeing & a beach day in one weekend.

    #11 Palma de Mallorca

    Actually, my second home, Palma, is already crowded enough in summer. Every year there are new discussions about limiting the number of cruise ships docking and thus the crowds that flood the streets of the old town during the day.

    Anyway, the cruise tourists usually flock in the same direction and I still have so many tips for great locations in Palma (like my favorite neighborhood, Molinar) that the mainstream doesn’t know about. So get ready for more insider tips for Palma here on the blog!

    Here you will find all tips for Mallorca

    City trip Palma beach in Molinar
    My absolute favorite beach in Palma, for reasons 🙂

    #12 Hamburg

    Hamburg is only an ICE train ride away from Berlin. I like to travel by train anyway, and I don’t let constant delays or a non-existent service culture like from our German train service stop me! (By the way, with the Flixtrain there is still a good alternative to the Deutsche Bahn in Berlin; also not always perfect, but sometimes a refreshing alternative).

    My tip for Hamburg: take a harbor tour & explore the food scene – read my Hamburg Food Guide for more information

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    #13 Madrid

    I’ve never been a big fan of Madrid. But after hearing my blogger bestie Sandra rave about so many tips in Madrid all last year, I should give the city another chance and go in search of the best tortillas in Madrid myself.

    Gran Vía in Madrid, featuring the Schweppes Building and a bustling city street

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    #14 Dresden

    My insider tip for Dresden: The organic café in the Japanese Palace, with its own small garden in the courtyard!

    Semper Opera House Dresden
    Semper Opera House in Dresden
    Café in the Japanese Palace in Dresden with GArten in the courtyard
    Small oasis: the café in the Japanese Palace in Dresden

    Dresden has always been a beautiful destination. Besides the usual sights like the Zwinger, the Semper Opera and the Frauenkirche, I recommend a trip to the Neustadt where Dresden gets a bit wilder and alternative.

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    #15 Timisoara

    Admittedly, Timisoara and I took off on bad terms. I’ve probably been there too many times, and at a time when Timisoara and, for that matter, the rest of Romania were anything but hip and trendy. Or maybe it was due to the rather revealing nightclub advertisement in the elevator of our crew hotel, which was meant to attract guests to the hotel bar in the basement. And I bet many (mostly male) guests on a business trip were very happy about the hint. Already a very unusual flair for one of the better hotels in town. Be that as it may, Timisoara has been really spruced up in recent years, and perhaps the last windy fortune-hunters will soon disappear.

    Victory Square in Timișoara, featuring the cathedral, the street clock, and pigeons
    Balcony with metal railing and a snow-covered city skyline in the background

    #16 Lisbon

    I realized with horror how long it has been since I’ve been to Lisbon. Yet the Portuguese capital is my absolute place of strength; especially in winter, when it’s gray and dreary in Germany, a sunny day in Lisbon is worth its weight in gold I don’t know what it is, but the light, the water around it, the wind of the Atlantic make it one of my favorite cities in Europe. And of course the Portuguese, the delicious food, the great old town and much more.

    More about Lisbon

    Lisbon City Break
    The best view of Lisbon is from the many miradouros in the city

    #17 Faro

    After my trip to the Algarve, I almost got stuck in Faro. I just didn’t want to go back to Berlin. What it is, I don’t know, but Faro is possibly just the perfect mix of Portuguese lifestyle, laid-back cafes and stunning beaches just outside the city.

    Learn more about Faro in my article on Travellers Insight

    City trip Faro with beach vacation
    Close to Faro you will find the most amazing beaches!

    #18 Manchester

    Whenever I think of Manchester and English, I always think of that hot potato that every Mancunian seems to have in their mouth when they speak. That broad accent is just so cool! And anyway, I feel a bit at home in Manchester—probably because there are quite a few parallels between Manchester, as an old industrial city, and my home region, the Ruhr area. And hey, we often talk a bit funny there, too, right?

    Expert tip for Manchester: Tib Street in the hip Northern Quarter with street art, specialty coffee cafés and craft beer pubs until you drop

    Chesters, a traditional British pub with floral decorations and a tiled facade
    Street art in the Northern Quarter in Manchester

    #19 Basel

    Okay, Basel is in Switzerland, so that makes it extra expensive, and anyway, in Swiss cities you always have to ask yourself if it’s worth having half a heart attack every time you run up a bill at the café. But Basel in summer is just cool because of its Rhine swimming: Put your clothes in the so-called “Wickelfisch” (a waterproof plastic bag), swimwear on, jump into the Rhine and let yourself drift on the Wickelfisch with the quite swift current. Always an amazing experience!

    The Rhine in Basel, featuring a cargo ship, a bridge, and the cathedral
    If you don’t want to swim: You can also chill out by the Rhine in Basel
    Rhine swimming in Basel
    Rhine swimming in Basel

    #20 Poznan

    Actually, I’ve had quite an overdose of stays in Poland in the last few years, because I’m there all the time for work reasons. But that also means that a considerable number of tips have piled up that I still absolutely have to share with you here on the blog – from the best St. Martin’s croissants to a real jungle, I still have quite a few in store for Poznan. And if you’re looking for a nice and easily accessible destination for a short trip that won’t blow a huge hole in your travel budget, Poznan is just perfect!

    Glazed cookies with chopped nuts on parchment paper
    A narrow path through a tropical jungle lined with palm fronds
    Colorful historic townhouses on the market square in Poznań
    Beautiful facades: The market square in the old town of Poznan

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    #21 Torino

    Omg, I just miss overnights in northern Italy! In the meantime, I have given up hope of ever returning to Milan, Bologna or even Torino on duty. Whether for a casual cappuccino or tango dancing under arcades, I’ll definitely have to return!

    You can find more travel tips for Bella Italia here

    Piazza San Carlo in Turin, with its equestrian statue and Baroque churches
    People dancing in an elegant historic gallery with a glass roof

    #22 Reus

    Reus was one of my new discoveries in Spain last year, along with Tarragona! Only a hundred kilometers from Barcelona, it is perfectly accessible by train for a day trip from there! Find out what you can experience there in my travel guide for Reus!

    Tip: A trip to Catalonia is well worthwhile. Here you can find my Catalonia insider tips!

    City trip Reus in Spain with Casa Navas
    Casa Navas in Reus is so beautiful – an absolute discovery!

    #23 Berlin

    Opinions differ about my current hometown, which I constantly quarrel with, but which is also simply unique in many ways. Berlin is loud, chaotic and dirty – but you shouldn’t let such trivialities stop you!

    Besides, there’s so much to see in Berlin, there’s a pretty good chance there’s still plenty to discover. When I talk to people who didn’t like the city so much, I often realize that they were just exploring the wrong corners. To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, I’ve resolved to share more tips for Berlin here on the blog this year!

    For example, like this one: Breakfast at the Reichstag

    ➜ Book your table on the roof terrace of the Reichstag here*

    Visit Reichstag in Berlin
  • Best Things to Do in Friedrichshafen at Lake Constance

    Best Things to Do in Friedrichshafen at Lake Constance

    The fact that I have a preference for places by the water and southern climates should be obvious by now. But to a certain extent, I also count Friedrichshafen among them, because when you look out over the huge Lake Constance from the waterfront promenade, you feel like you’re at the seaside. In this article. I’ll show you which tips and sights you shouldn’t miss in Friedrichshafen!

    What to do in Friedrichshafen

    With all the wonderful places like Konstanz or Lindau nearby, Friedrichshafen stands a bit in their shadow among the towns around Lake Constance. There is no picturesque old town and there aren’t that much spectacular attractions. Nevertheless, a trip is worth it – just for the really great Zeppelin Museum!

    Lake Constance

    An unmissable sight in Friedrichshafen is probably the incredible view over water as far as the eye can see. Lake Constance is enormous and you’ll probably forget that it’s just a lake, not an open sea. It is the largest inland body of water in Germany and also borders Austria and Switzerland.

    A calm lake with clear water and a misty mountain silhouette

    In the lake, the border triangle meets, so to speak, and the Rhine also flows through Lake Constance. Strictly speaking, Lake Constance consists of Obersee (together with Überlinger See) and Untersee.

    You can also swim in Lake Constance, and the lido in Friedrichshafen is particularly nice for this.

    Waterfront in Friedrichshafen

    On the waterfront you can walk for kilometres along the lake. From the mouth of the Rotach River to the castle, the promenade in Friedrichshafen stretches for a full two and a half kilometers. On days with good visibility you can even see the Alps on the horizon from here!

    An empty restaurant patio with chairs and tables by the sea

    In the city you will find some nice cafes and restaurants along the promenade: take a little break here and enjoy the view of the impressive Lake Constance panorama in good weather.

    Breakfast with a pretzel and salad at Munich's Seehafen

    Unfortunately, you will also find some tourist traps here and perhaps you will give the “wine cellar city wall” a wide berth. But I can definitely recommend these locations:

    Aika Always good for a coffee or a bite in between, open summer and winter, and perfect if you just want to chill.

    s’Wirtshaus am See Hearty cuisine with an alpine touch, cozy inside and out (outside with a perfect lake view!).

    Looking for more ideas for quick getaways and destinations nearby? Here you will find inspiration for exciting locations in Germany and Austria!

    Observation tower/Moleturm

    For the ultimate view of Lake Constance, you can also climb the observation tower at the harbor pier. It’s free of charge.

    Lake Constance waterfront promenade with a swan and blue sky

    Lake Constance boat trip from Friedrichshafen

    From the harbor in Friedrichshafen you can reach many other places around Lake Constance. I can definitely recommend a little tour across the lake!

    Ferry at the harbor with a view of the lake and a steel tower

    The ferry takes you to Romanshorn in Switzerland, and two catamarans regularly connect Friedrichshafen with Constance. And in summer there are the ships of the White Fleet, which still call at ports such as Meersburg, Lindau or Bregenz, as well as other small providers, whose timetable you can find directly at the port.

    Timetable ferry to Romanshorn

    Catamaran to Constance

    Timetable White Fleet

    Tip: If you are kinky or just want to do some people watching at the harbor, don’t miss this pretty special boat tour🙂

    Friedrichshafen sights harbor with zeppelin museum
    The Zeppelin Museum, which is well worth seeing, is also located directly at the harbor

    Do you want to spend a longer time at Lake Constance? Click here to find the best places to stay:
    Places to Stay Around Lake Constance

    Zeppelin Museum

    Friedrichshafen will forever be linked with the Zeppelin. The great airships named after their inventor, Count von Zeppelin, were built right here on Lake Constance. From 1900 to 1940, they even transported passengers across the Atlantic and were also used for military purposes, especially in wartime during World War I and World War II.

    A model of the Hindenburg zeppelin hangs from the ceiling in the museum foyer
    Model of the Hindenburg in the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen

    With the accident of the Hindenburg in Lakehurst in 1937, in which the entire airship went up in flames, the era of the zeppelins was then slowly over.

    Retro lounge on a ship with orange armchairs and a world map
    Historic black-and-white photo of children with a Zeppelin stewardess

    Today, you can see the entire history of zeppelins as well as areplica of a passenger cabin at the Zeppelin Museum. The entire exhibition is interactive and interesting for both children and adults.

    LZ 129 Hindenburg: Scale Model Exhibition

    I’ve been here twice already, because the history of zeppelins is just so fascinating and tells so many tales from a very different era of aviation. Definitely one of my favourite recommendations for Friedrichshafen!

    Buy tickets for the Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen here*

    A model of the Hindenburg zeppelin hangs from the museum ceiling
    Movie theater showing a historic black-and-white film about Count Zeppelin

    Zeppelin flight from Friedrichshafen

    After so much Zeppelin in Friedrichshafen, you might feel like experiencing a ride yourself! With the Zeppelin NT, an airship of the latest generation, you can make various sightseeing flights over Lake Constance.

    All sightseeing flights from Friedrichshafen

    The hangar is located right next to the Friedrichshafen airport and can also be visited separately if a flight is beyond your travel budget (unfortunately, the flights are relatively expensive!).

    Dates & prices shipyard tour

    Sunset on Lake Constance with a pier and a seagull in flight

    Shopping in Friedrichshafen

    Okay, calling Friedrichshafen a shopping destination is probably a bit of an exaggeration. The city center is rather quiet and doesn’t offer that many special shopping opportunities. Yet, curiously enough, Friedrichshafen has some excellent bookstores that I like so much that I stop by every time I’m here. Maybe it’s the relaxed atmosphere by the lake that makes it so tempting to read a lot?

    A white church tower with a red roof and a bustling street café
    Ravensburger Bookstore (ravensbuch.de) with a window display

    My favorite bookstores in Friedrichshafen

    Ravensbuch Great bookstore with a fantastic selection. Located in the middle of the city on the waterfront!

    Gessler 1862 mixture of café, bookstore and interiorshop. Small but very fine selection and great atmosphere: choose a book and start browsing right away in the café.

    How to get there

    Maybe you live close by, or you’re traveling around Lake Constance in your own car anyway – then you’re bound to find your way to Friedrichshafen somehow. Otherwise, I have the following tips for you:

    By plane to Friedrichshafen

    Friedrichshafen has a small airport, and it’s actually one of my favorites on duty because it’s so small and cute. Everyone knows everyone around here and the atmosphere is rather familiar unlike at larger airports.

    There are good connections within Germany from here to Frankfurt (yes, I’m there sometimes – feel free to say hello if you’re flying 🙂 ). If you are traveling from further away, just have a look at the following link; maybe there is a suitable connection via Frankfurt for you.

    Flights to and from Friedrichshafen*

    A white swan swims in clear green water next to a wall
    A white swan swims in clear, turquoise water

    By train to Friedrichshafen

    Friedrichshafen has a small long-distance train station (Friedrichshafen Stadt), which is centrally located. From here, for example, there are trains to Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Ulm, Innsbruck and Basel and an Intercity connection to Dortmund, Düsseldorf and Cologne.

    You can also get to the harbor station (Friedrichshafen Hafen), which is located in the city centre.

    Check connections & prices with Deutsche Bahn here*

    By long distance bus to Friedrichshafen

    With Flixbus, you can easily get to Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance from cities like Munich, Freiburg or Zurich. There are three bus stops in the city, one of them directly at the city train station, the other one at the airport.

    Prices & connections with Flixbus to Friedrichshafen*

    A calm lake with a metal railing and a clear sky

    Other places worth seeing near Friedrichshafen and around Lake Constance

    As a popular vacation region, Lake Constance offers a variety of great destinations, whether on the German, Austrian or Swiss side of the lake.

    A few ideas (in German):

    Constance: Sights & Tips
    Radolfzell: Tips from a local
    UNESCO World Heritage Sites on Lake Constance
    Island hopping on Lake Constance

  • Molinar: The hotspot in Palma!

    Molinar: The hotspot in Palma!

    People often ask me where to go in Palma. For a long time I kept the hottest tip in Palma to myself – but by now my list of great locations in my favorite part of Palma is so long that I finally have to share it with you! So here you can find my tips for Molinar, probably the most beautiful district in Palma!

    Molinar beach promenade secret tips for Palma in Mallorca
    Sea, beach and a fresh breeze: Even Mallorcans themselves rave about Palma’s suburb Molinar.

    Molinar in Palma: From fishing village to Mallorca’s hotspot

    Just a few decades ago, Molinar was a only an old fishing village. But after the beach promenade was extended here from downtown Palma in the late nineties, the forgotten suburb became the city’s new hotspot. Although land prices rose ad infinitum, Molinar nevertheless retained the charm of a village and to this day has little to no tourist appeal. A great secret location for all those who don’t want to stay in one of the many hotels and who like to mingle with the locals!

    Are you planning a vacation in Mallorca?
    Here you will find many more tips for the island!

    A woman with curly hair is sitting by the sea, looking out at the water

    Where is Molinar located?

    Molinar is a district of Palma and extends from the marina Portixol along the sea out of town to the next district Ciudad Jardin. Molinar is especially popular for its long beach promenade, which unlike many other sections in Palma, is not very touristy. By bike you can explore Molinar particularly well: From here you can ride both in direction to the big port of Palma and in the other direction to Playa de Palma. This section is also popular among inline skaters.

    Portixol harbour in Palma Mallorca
    The Portixol marina in Palma

    Molinar or Portixol?

    Due to its proximity to the Portixol marina, this corner of Palma is often called Portixol. Strictly speaking, however, Portixol is only the area around the marina. Molinar is the suburb of Palma that starts right there. However, many people also name the beachfront in Molinar Portixol – so don’t panic if you ask someone for directions, both names are often used for what’s actually Molinar.

    Molinar is my tip for you on Mallorca if you only have a few days but still want to relax by the sea!

    Beach in Molinar, Palma, Mallorca

    The best beaches in Molinar

    Classic beaches with the typical touristy infrastructure with umbrellas, lifeguards and postcard stores are not to be found in Molinar. But that is exactly what makes the beaches in Molinar so popular. Many locals swim here, the atmosphere is relaxed and people know each other.

    Playa de El Molinar in Palma, Mallorca
    Playa de El Molinar

    The only beach equipped with showers is Playa de El Molinar, right at the beginning of the boardwalk. Down to Ciudad Jardin, however, there is no official beach. You can just enter the beach here in the wild, so to speak, a real rarity in and around Palma! Especially popular are the spots around the Rosa del Vents, the monolith with the seagull on top right on the promenade. Here, the water is shallow and you can walk forever into the ocean. The sea is crystal clear in good weather.

    Sunny beach promenade with turquoise-blue sea and houses
    The beach promenade in Molinar

    On weekends, the promenade is very busy, but during the week you’ll find great, quiet swimming spots. There are also two small bays, especially suitable for children; the water is clear and shallow. There is little to no swell due to the enclosed bay.

    Click here for accommodations directly in Molinar

    At the end of the promenade you are already in Ciudad Jardin. It’s a bit more lively there with some bars and a chiringuito (that’s how the beach bars directly by the beach are called). Here there are showers, public toilets and access for visitors with reduced mobility. This beach is also guarded by lifeguards during the day in summer.

    Click here for more dream beaches in Mallorca

    Beach in Ciudad Jardin, Palma, Mallorca
    During the off-season, you’ll have the wide beach in Ciudad Jardin to yourself on weekdays

    Where to eat and drink in Molinar

    The Paseo of Molinar has also become the favorite gastronomic destination of Palmesans, where people like to stroll along the promenade in the evening or do sports. Outside the high season and on weekdays it is relatively quiet, but even in summer on weekends it does not get too crowded. To some extent, places come and go here, but there are some really good tips that are absolutely no tourist traps.

    These are my restaurant favorites in Molinar!

    Mala Madre A bit off the boardwalk and more with a street view than an ocean view, the menu is a bit of a wild mix, Tex-Mex, Asia, a little bit of everything but still good. Great interior with jungle vibes.

    Mala Madre Restaurant in Portixol, Palma, Mallorca
    Mala Madre at Portixol harbour

    Izizi Nunnak Great cocktails, good selection, both for small lunch or large dinner. Seats on the terrace with ocean view are especially popular on weekends, but inside the huge bar and the cozy patio are also eye-catchers. Cocktails are amazing.

    Lamb chop on plate at Izizi Nunnak in Molinar, Palma, Mallorca
    Gazpacho with avocado on plate at Izizi Nunnak in Molinar, Palma, Mallorca
    Izizi Nunnak

    Enco Longtime classic on Playa de El Molinar and always a safe bet for coffee/cake, snacks or tasty sandwiches. Also good for breakfast!

    Es Vaixell Right next door, also recommended for drinks and snacks. Popular among locals!

    Playa de El Molinar in Palma, Mallorca
    Around the Playa de El Molinar are many great restaurants

    Cocco My recommendation for drinks at sunset! From the upper floor you have an even better view of the bay and the setting sun.

    A Tarantella A little less fancy, but that shouldn’t stop you. I am very picky about Italian restaurants outside of Italy in particular; but Tarantella is one of the few restaurants where I eat lasagna without hesitation. I especially love the lasagna! Everything else, pizza, pasta, also delicious, fresh and good. Service is authentic and attentive. Very popular, best to reserve on weekends.
    A Tarantella has moved and is now a bit more hidden at Carrer de la ille de Corfù 8 in Ciudad Jardin. But cuisine is always great, the way to the neighboring Ciudad Jardin is worth it!

    Update March 2023: Now you’ll find Petit Nola, an offshoot of Nola in Santa Catalina. Good address for brunch, drinks and snacks!

    Pizzeria La Tarantella on a sunny beach promenade lined with palm trees
    At the small marina Port Petit in Molinar
    A woman with curly hair is enjoying a cheesy dish with a spoon
    Woman pulls strings of cheese while eating a meal
    Lasagna in Italian restaurant in Molinar, Palma, Mallorca

    Vent Portixol I have yet to find out if this is a good place to eat; in any case, it’s good for a drink and snacks in the afternoon or evening. Decorated in beach bar style; very comfortable to sit and people-watch here.

    Sa Roqueta A bit fancier, but still with the charm of the near harbour and absolutely recommended for fans of fresh fish and seafood. Secluded on the mini peninsula of the Hotel Portixol. Even the former King Juan Carlos of Spain with family is said to have dined here on their annual Mallorca vacation!

    Alta Marea Very good tip for a romantic dinner! Alta Marea is located in a small square, somewhat hidden from the promenade on Passeig del Born del Molinar. Sit outside & enjoy good Italian cuisine on a warm summer evening!

    Can Tito is right next door at the same square, with a nice terrace as well. Established and traditional, famous for fish and seafood and a good address if you are looking for really typical cuisine!

    Plaza del Born in Molinar, Palma de Mallorca
    The Passeig del Born del Molinar is especially beautiful in the evening & popular with insiders and locals.

    By the way: Here you can find more tips for Palma!

    Insider tips in Molinar

    On the Carrer Llucmajor, it’s less fancy than on the promenade, but you’re really only among locals here. Often the places here are not particularly prepared for tourists, so strangers usually shy away from going inside. But I can only recommend it! It’s much cheaper than on the promenade and you can also dive right into village life. Menus are often not available and English isn’t very common here, but here’s a glimpse of the authentic Mallorca!

    Small square with fountain in Molinar, Palma de Mallorca
    Village life in Molinar

    El Rincón de Laura My recommendation for a good breakfast! The entrance on the main street is inconspicuous and looks more like a garage, but behind it hides a cute place with charm! Mingle among the locals! Start the day with a Café con leche and delicious, freshly made tostadas (one portion is enough for two). Just ask for the current Pa amb Oli (bread with oil). The toppings change constantly, with everything from basics like jamón, queso and tortilla to calamares and anchoas.

    Breakfast at Rincón de Laura in Molinar, Palma de Mallorca

    El Camionero Traditional restaurant with a changing daily menu. Here you can get typical dishes and home cooking for lunch. Often well attended, the village meets here for lunch. There is loud laughter, chatting, and even a glass of wine at lunchtime – an experience!

    Forn Can Na Teresa bakery, which with the white and blue interior is more reminiscent of a fish store. Lively meeting place, also good for having coffee with a piece of cake!

    What to see in Molinar

    Even though Molinar is actually just a small village, there are still a few spots you can check out.

    Port Petit

    The small harbor in the center of Molinar is still being restored, but from the looks of it already, this place is becoming the new hotspot in Molinar. New is the small viewpoint at the top of the port, from which you can see all the way to the cathedral and the port of Palma.

    Entrance to the Port Petit in Molinar, Palma de Mallorca

    By the way, all this is only thanks to the protests of Molinar’s population: Originally, the local government wanted to sell the run-down area to a foreign investor. Thanks to a large-scale citizens’ movement and years of protests, however, this piece of village history now remains public – and makes Molinar even more beautiful.

    Port Petit in Molinar, Palma, Mallorca

    Rosa del Vents

    The monolith with the seagull on top is the landmark of Molinar. By the way, this (as well as the rest of the promenade) is a popular spot for fashion shoots. It is not uncommon to see big photo and video productions here – the light with the sea in the background is simply magnificent.

    Rosa del Vent in Molinar, Palma de Mallorca
    The landmark of Molinar: The Rosa del Vents

    Where to stay in Molinar

    Due to its perfect location, Molinar is also very suitable for staying overnight and as a home base for your stay in Mallorca! Especially if you want to spend a few days in Palma only and want to avoid to stay in the busy city centre, Molinar will be a perfect choice!

    A quick weekend in Palma?
    Molinar is only 10 minutes by car from the airport!
    Check out cheap flights to Mallorca here!

    Here you will find beach and tranquility, but still have a perfect bus connection to downtown Palma and the airport. If you’re feeling like it, you’ll also be at the infamous Playa de Palma or Arenal in no time. Cab rides to the airport or to the city are also affordable. The only problem: accommodation in Molinar is scarce.

    The iconic Hotel Portixol, located right on the marina, comes highly recommended. A bit more affordable but very nice is the Hotel Portofino in Ciudad Jardín at the other end of Molinar; plus, the beach is practically right outside the hotel’s door. Almost next door, tucked away in a townhouse-style property, is the Hotel Ciutat Jardi, which offers a nostalgic atmosphere, a pool, and a good restaurant.

    Hotel Portixol in Palma, Mallorca
    One of the first boutique hotels in Palma: Hotel Portixol

    More articles about Palma:

    My guide to Santa Catalina
    The Arab baths of Palma
    Christmas in the Pueblo Español

    Sunset at Playa de El Molinar in Palma
  • Top 10 Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

    Top 10 Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

    As an old Hanseatic city, Bremen has so many attractions to offer due to its eventful history. Did you know, for example, that Bremen’s impressive town hall is over 600 years old? But I was very surprised when I recently discovered some great spots in Bremen outside the usual tourist magnets! I’ll show you what you should see in the Hanseatic city and give you some pretty good insider tips that you’d otherwise have to search long and hard for!

    Colorful Gründerzeit facades with an antique shop and bicycles
    Rainy day in Bremen

    1. Schnoorviertel

    The oldest district of Bremen is an absolute must-see! Like a small oasis, the Schnoorviertel (or “the Schnoor”) is located in downtown Bremen. Schnoor, by the way, comes from the German word for string, “Schnur”, because the many small houses are strung together like pearls on a string.

    Historic half-timbered houses in Bremen's Schnoor district
    A historic alley in Bremen's Schnoor district with colorful half-timbered houses

    Some alleys are so narrow that you can touch the facades of the houses on the right and left at the same time with your arms outstretched! Unfortunately, the Schnoorviertel consists of only a few streets, but they are an absolute feast for the eyes with their pretty half-timbered houses.

    Bremen tourist attractions Schnoor
    Particularly cozy: the Schnoorviertel in Bremen.

    You will also find some small stores and restaurants – some of them very touristy – but it’s worth a closer look!

    ➜ Tour through the Schnoorviertel district*.

    Bremen's historic Schnoor district, with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses

    My recommendations:
    The Note – perfumery with an extraordinary assortment The perfect address if you love individual perfumes!
    808 Boba Bar – Delicious bubble teas in minimalist style No seating, but perfect as to-go during a stroll through the Schnoor district

    A hand holding a bubble tea cup from the 808 Boba Bar
    Gin bottles on a shelf under the warm glow of a light bulb
    Historic half-timbered house in a charming alley in a German old town

    2. The Bremen Town Musicians / Bremer Stadtmusikanten

    Curiously enough, the melody of the old children’s song about the Bremen Town Musicians is always the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of Bremen: Eeeh-aah, woof-woof, meow, cock-a-doodle-doo! The fairy tale of the Brothers Grimm is simply inseparable from the city.

    Bronze sculpture of the Bremen Town Musicians in front of a historic brick wall

    Since the 1950s, a bronze statue of the Town Musicians has also adorned Bremen’s Town Hall. But if you think of a huge statue here, you are mistaken – the four animals are not depicted life-size, and the statue is somewhat hidden on one side of the town hall. By the way, clasping the donkey’s legs with both hands at the same time is said to bring good luck!

    3. Bremen City Hall

    The first Bremen town hall is said to have stood here on the market square as early as the 13th century. The town hall, what you see here now, was built from 1405 to 1410 and is still used by the Bremen Senate and the mayor! The striking building can also be visited from the inside – it’s worth it! Today it is also called the Old Town Hall, after an addition, the New Town Hall, was added in 1917.

    Bremen City Hall on the Market Square, with passersby and a church tower

    You can book a guided tour of the town hall here:
    Tickets for the Old Town Hall

    Tip for foodies: In Bremen’s Ratskeller, located under the Old Town Hall, you can enjoy the rustic ambience with hearty delicacies!

    Inscription on a Building in Bremen Commemorating the Division of Germany
    Historic gabled houses on Bremen's Market Square with cafés

    More sights around the town hall and Bremen’s market square:
    St. Peter’s Cathedral     from the 11th century
    Spitting stone in the cathedral courtyard: the serial killer Gesche Gottfried was beheaded here in 1831

    Bremen Cathedral with two towers on Market Square in Bremen

    By the way, are you a True Crime fan? Then this might be an exciting tour for you to get to know Bremen better:
    ➜ Tatort Bremen: Of manslayers and cutthroats*

    4. Bremer Roland

    The Bremer Roland is one of the most important landmarks of Bremen! The large statue of Roland in front of the town hall shows a knight with a sword and symbolizes the independence of a city and the associated city rights.

    With the separation from the until then ecclesiastical rule and the change to an independent city around 1400, Bremen was the forerunner among many European cities. Therefore, the Bremen Roland as a symbol of freedom and self-determination has great significance to this day and can be found as the name sponsor for many Bremen institutions.

    The Roland Statue in Bremen's Market Square

    5. The Schlachte

    Going out in Bremen? No problem – the Schlachte is the promenade on the Weser and is located in the middle of the city. Here you can also sit on the Weser promenade during the day, drink coffee or enjoy an after-work beer and people-watch. In the evening it gets more crowded depending on the day of the week.

    You can get a real maritime feeling on the old sailing ship “Alexander von Humboldt”, which is located directly on the Schlachte and houses a restaurant and hotel.
    ➜ Prices & availability on the “Alexander von Humboldt “*

    Enchilada Beer Garden Sign Featuring the Paulaner and Carlsberg Logos
    Bremen's Weser Promenade with historic brick buildings and a dock

    6. Böttcherstrasse

    A narrow dark alley leads from the spacious market square down to a very special street in downtown Bremen – and if I hadn’t spotted a small sign saying “to Böttcherstraße,” I probably would have walked right past it. Indeed, if you walk down the narrow Schüttingstraße from the market, you walk directly towards the impressive archway that marks the beginning of Böttcherstraße.

    Böttcherstraße in Bremen, featuring a golden relief and passersby

    Here, since 1931, art, culture and crafts are concentrated on a small street that seems like a whole other world. With the support of coffee HAG (a very popular decaffeinated coffee brand in Germany until today, many German still call decaf coffee “Kaffee HAG”) inventor Ludwig Roselius, a center for creative people was created here at the beginning of the last century, which has retained its charm to this day.

    Historic Böttcherstraße in Bremen, with passersby and brick buildings

    Every single house on Böttcherstrasse is individually designed: The Paula Modersohn Becker House, which contains the associated museum about the painter’s life’s work, is particularly striking.

    Historic brick building with a sundial in Bremen

    Especially at the time of the Third Reich, the expressionist style of the house was controversial; in any case, I was very impressed by the unusual architecture.

    Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur storefront with a decorative brick wall

    Worth seeing here, in addition to the small stores and studios, are the Seven Owls Fountain (Sieben-Faulen-Brunnen) whose story is based on a Bremen folktale, and the Craftsmen’s Courtyard (Handwerkerhof).

    You can find out more about the interesting history of this unusual street on this short tour:
    ➜ Tour of Böttcherstrasse*

    7. Wallanlagen & the Mill

    You feel a bit like you’re in Holland when you look at the mill in the Wallanlagen. Located in the middle of the ramparts of the old Bremen city wall, the former coffee mill is not only a pretty photo motif, but also houses a restaurant today. (But you can also stop here just for a coffee.) However, sometimes there are some shady around from the nearby main train station, the Hauptbahnhof. So better just walk along here during the day and be a bit more careful.

    A historic windmill is reflected in a tranquil park pond

    8. The Viertel

    This neighborhood was my very big surprise in Bremen. Or maybe I just didn’t notice it before simply because of the name. The Viertel in German means actually just “the neighborhood”.

    Street art graffiti featuring Ernie and Bert on a building wall

    The Bremer Viertel stretches from Sielwall to Sankt-Jürgen-Strasse and is something like THE hipster district of Bremen. Actually just a small part of town, but here you can spend the whole day strolling and eating. Or at least that’s how I felt! I have discovered so many great little stores and fantastic food locations, that the next time I’m in Bremen I’ll definitely go straight to the Viertel and check out my favorites first!

    Werder Bremen Graffiti Mural on a White Gründerzeit Building in Bremen
    An old Mercedes on a cobblestone street in the historic old town

    My secret tips for the Viertel:

    Juli liebt Kaffee good coffee, but also great interior design Delicious breakfast/brunch in a relaxed atmosphere. Worth coming out of downtown for.

    Fritzfrank Concept Store right next door Owner Anastasia chooses everything herself with a good hand and taste If you like supporting small businesses, you’ve come to the right place. At fritzfrank you will find decoration and accessories from many small labels, which you will definitely not find everywhere in Germany.

    A cozy gift and home decor shop with colorful shelves

    Nora’s I’ve only had a Turmeric Latte and a Carrot Cake here, and that alone is a reason to come back; because I would have loved to taste more! The ambience is refined yet casual, the service attentive, and really everything on the menu is homemade according to clean-eating principles. Eating healthy has rarely been better. Still affordable. Also available to go.

    Modern café interior with wooden furniture and tropical wall decor
    Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Fresh Berries

    9. Parks & other great outdoor experiences in Bremen

    In Bremen there are a few more tips and sights that you can also still see during a longer stay:

    Maritime Meile Vegesack – outside the city center you can learn more about Bremen’s maritime history around the old Vegesack harbor, for example, in the Museumshaven.
    Bürgerpark – located behind Bremen’s main train station, you’ll find a huge green space with plenty of opportunities to relax, unwind or play sports.
    Rhodendron Park – May is the perfect month for a trip to Rhodendron Park: that’s when the more than 10,000 plants are at their best in full bloom! Admission is free, by the way.

    10. Museums in Bremen

    It’s not just when the weather is bad that you might want to treat yourself to a visit to a museum. Anyway, still on my list are these two museums that make Bremen an exciting destination.

    Kunsthalle Bremen – In addition to its own collection, which includes works from over 700 years of art history, you will also find interesting temporary exhibitions here. A look at the website with the current events is worthwhile!
    Weserburg The Weserburg is the museum for international contemporary art, housed in a historic building directly on the Weser. The collection includes works from various disciplines, from paintings and sculptures to installations. Changing exhibitions.

    Stay overnight in Bremen

    If you’re not traveling from the surrounding area, you may need a place to stay. Not a problem in Bremen! You should take a closer look at the following locations:

    Klabauterbett* Sleep on a two-mast clipper! Cozy ship very close to the old town and Schlachte.
    Vienna House Bremen City* stay comfortable, modern & at a good price. A bit outside the city center, but due to the short distances and good public transport in Bremen you are still close by. Advantage if arriving by train: it’s within walking distance of the main train station.
    Designhotel Überfluss* a bit more expensive, but with a wellness area and absolutely centrally located by the Weser river. For a nice weekend for two but quite affordable if you want to treat yourself!

    Bremen's Weser Promenade with a historic sailing ship and a view of the city
  • Top 10 Things to do in Gdansk

    Top 10 Things to do in Gdansk

    An old town center peppered with sights and medieval vibes, plus the vibrant life of a modern Polish city and the proximity to the Baltic Sea: every time I’m in Gdansk, I’m seeing the city from a different angle. Because Gdansk is just so diverse! In this article, I’ll show you the most important sights in Gdansk , so you can start sightseeing right away!

    ➜ See Gdańsk and the Baltic Sea resorts of Sopot and Gdynia in just one day*
    ➜ Affordable places to stay in Gdańsk
    ➜ Day trip tip: Take a pirate ship to Westerplatte

    1. Historical center of Gdansk: The Main City

    You will find most of the sights in the Main City. That’s where the historical center of Gdansk is. The Main City is home to the most popular tourist destination in the city: the Long Lane (Ulica Długa) is the main street where everything is taking place!

    2. Long Lane/Ulica Długa

    The Long Lane runs from the Golden Gate to the Long Market and is truly a feast for the eyes. The facades of the houses along the Long Lane clearly show the economic and cultural importance of the former Hanseatic city of Gdansk . Already in the Middle Ages, Gdansk was an important trading port due to its location on the Baltic Sea, and many merchants and nobles settled here.

    Gdansk Long Lane

    Not obvious at first glance, because it’s just too beautiful and well done: The beautiful medieval-looking facades are not quite original. In fact, during the Second World War, over ninety percent of the houses on the Long Lane were destroyed. After the war, all facades were rebuilt, but the backyards and blocks behind them were constructed according to modern urban planning principles.

    Gdansk sights colorful houses long lane
    Rebuilt after the Second World War: The house facades on the Long Lane
    Neptune Fountain Gdansk
    Neptune Fountain in front of the City Hall

    3. Long Market

    The Long Market at the end of Langgasse is always busy, especially during the high season from spring to fall and on weekends. You can sit here in the surrounding cafes and watch all the hustle and bustle, but Gdansk has so much more great cafes and restaurants to offer that you should also take a look into the small side streets. Good coffee can be found, for example, at the Café Oficyna.

    Long Market and Green Gate in Gdansk

    Polish cities are definitely worth a trip! Find more inspiration for a short trip to Poland here:
    ➜ All articles about Poland

    Cafe Oficyna Gdansk
    Café Oficyna in Gdansk

    4. Green Gate

    The end of the Long Market is unmistakably formed by the Green Gate. For me one of the most beautiful photo motifs of Gdansk! There is also an offshoot of the National Museum here, where changing exhibitions are held at irregular intervals. It’s worth taking a look!

    Gdansk Sights Green Gate
    The Green Gate at the end of the Long Lane

    5. Waterfront promenade

    Through the Green Gate you’ll get straight to the waterfront promenade on the Motlawa, where you can enjoy the maritime feeling! You can already feel the fresh Baltic Sea breeze a bit here, and a few older ships provide the right flair. Among others, you can even see a real pirate ship!

    Pirate ship on the Motlawa River in Gdansk
    The pirate ship on the Motlawa
    St Mary's gate on the waterfront Gdansk
    St Mary’s gate on the waterfront

    6. Crane Gate

    By the way, among the many eateries on the waterfront, the huge Crane Gate stands out. Ships were once loaded and unloaded here since the 15th century. In the Second World War, like so many buildings in Gdansk, it was destroyed, but then completely rebuilt.

    Today, the Crane Gate is one of the most famous postcard motifs and landmarks in Gdansk. The single, large wheels of the crane can also be seen through the construction from the waterfront. But in the Crane Gate itself there is also a museum (currently closed for renovation), where you can see the mechanism up close and learn more about life in medieval Gdansk.

    Current info Museum in the Crane Gate

    Crane gate Gdansk sights
    One of the most striking sights of Gdansk: The Crane Gate

    7. Mariacka Street

    Even before the Crane Gate, you can pass through the St Mary’s Gate ontoMariacka Street, which to me, is the most beautiful street in the center of Gdansk! Mariacka Street is lined with stylish town houses and is also the center of the amber trade. Gdansk is famous for its amber! Personally, I don’t like it that much, but the street itself is so pretty – an absolutely perfect photo op!

    Amber Street in Gdansk
    Center of the amber trade: Mariacka Street
    Mariacka Street Gdansk

    What is amber?
    Amber is not a precious stone, but fossil resin. It is also called “Baltic gold” because it has the largest deposits in the Baltic Sea region around Gdansk and in the Baltic States. Attention when buying: Meanwhile there are also synthetically produced fakes!

    ➜ Learn to recognize fake amber & process amber yourself! (material included) *

    8. St. Mary’s Church

    The Mariacka Street leads to the unmissable St. Mary’s Church, which is interesting even you are a big fan of churches in general. From the church tower you have a perfect view over Gdansk!

    (Alternatively, you can enjoy the view over the city from the ferris wheel “Amber Sky” on Granary Island).

    Sights in Gdansk St. Mary's Church
    Best view: From the tower of St. Mary’s Church
    Royal Chapel Gdansk with fountain

    9. Granary Island

    The Granary Island opposite the old town has only really been developed in recent years. There is still a lot of construction going on here, new things are being built and the atmosphere here is younger and fresher than in the historic Main City. I’m excited to see what else is created here!

    The pedestrian swing bridge that connects the Speicherinsel with the opposite waterfront promenade of the Main City is also new!

    Pedestrian bridge over the Motlawa
    Pedestrian bridge over the Motlawa
    Ferris wheel in Gdansk

    10. Street Art in Zaspa

    A bit away from the tourist hustle and bustle, you can marvel at exciting murals and street art in the usually less picturesque Zaspa district. You can find an overview of all murals here:

    Murale Gdansk Zaspa

    Food & Drinks in Gdansk

    You’ll encounterGoldwasser on every corner, a spiced liqueur with a whopping 40% alcohol is the signature liquor of Gdansk. By the way, the name actually comes from the gold leaf that is added to the liqueur! It’s too hard for me, but fortunately Gdansk has much more to offer than just Goldwasser! As in most Polish cities, the choice of good, modern restaurants and cafés is great!

    Steak on hot stone in restaurant Whiskey in a Jar Gdansk
    Tip: Whiskey in the Jar on Granary Island

    Beer is popular in Poland anyway and in Gdansk even more so! So if you like beer and want to experience craft beer from small, local breweries that you might never find like this, then this might be for you:

    ➜ Private beer tasting with local craft beer*.

    Day trips from Gdansk

    If you’ve had enough of the city and crave even more Baltic flair, there are some great trips you can take from Gdansk.

    Westerplatte

    History nerds in search of the historical hotspots will be drawn here anyway: This is where World War II began in 1939 with Germany’s invasion of Poland. A large monument to honours the soldiers defending Poland commemorates these first battles today.

    But also the location on the Baltic Sea and the wide beach make the peninsula a great place to visit! By the way, you can take a trip here with the pirate ship, which is located on the waterfront – and yes, it is quite touristy with music and animation; but it is also just beautifully done.

    Gdansk riverside promenade on the Motlawa river

    There are also water trams by Gdansk’s public transport company in summer. Line F5 also departs from the Green Gate and stops at Westerplatte. The stay on the Westerplatte with a fresh breeze are a nice contrast to the lively Old Town.

    In general, you should take a boat tour in Gdansk – it’s really cheap, and a nice opportunity to get to know the history of the city from the water!

    ➜ City tour on a historic wooden boat*
    ➜ Boat tour of the Imperial Shipyard at sunset*
    ➜ On a small motorboat across the Mottlau*

    A boat trip to Westerplatte also takes you past the huge cranes of the Danziger Werft: This is where the Solidarnosc movement around Lech Welesa, later Nobel Peace Prize winner and Polish president, was born in the 1980s. The Gdansk shipyard, today rather insignificant, built huge freighters and passenger ships here at that time. One of the first ships build here is now moored as a museum ship on the Motlawa River, opposite the crane gate.

    Museum ship Soldek

    Ship Soldek in Gdansk
    Museum ship Soldek

    Sopot

    Very close to Gdansk is Sopot, an old Baltic seaside resort, which is still a popular nightlife destination for many Gdansk residents. There you can walk along the busy main street Monte Cassino to the Sopot pier, a wooden jetty that juts hundreds of meters into the Baltic Sea.

    You can get there in less than half an hour by regional train from Gdansk Central Station (Gdańsk Główny), which is just outside the Old Town. You can also take an Uber!

    Advertising / *affiliate link

    Or you can book a full day with a guide who will show you not only Sopot, but also Gdansk on the fly and Gdynia. It’s a really a good investment to experience more of the area and at the same time, you don’t have to worry about transportation, etc:

    ➜ Gdansk, Sopot & Gdynia in one day*.

    Travel planning tips

    Where to stay in Gdansk

    Gdansk is one of the most popular travel destinations in Poland. There is therefore a huge range of accommodation on offer here. Accommodation is relatively cheap, especially in the low season, so you are sure to find a nice place to stay.

    I have some great tips for you here:

    Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites —Newly renovated on Speicherinsel and furnished in a clean, Scandinavian mid-century style. The perfect location for exploring all the sights on foot!

    ➜ More places to stay in Gdańsk

    On the road

    You can explore the center of Gdansk perfectly on foot. Everything is close together and you will find less public transportation there anyway. To get to Westerplatte, Sopot or nearby Gdynia, for example, you can take the bus, train or, in summer, the water streetcar.
    Timetables and times (Polish only): [https://ztm .gda.pl /]

    Less adventurous, but also not very expensive, is Uber; it works in Gdansk without any problems.

    Best time to visit Gdansk

    I think I’ve been to Gdansk at pretty much every time of year. In summer Gdansk is very busy and touristy, especially on weekends, this may be too much for some. However, the temperatures are then also perfect for a swimming trip to the Baltic Sea coast.

    In spring and autumn, Gdansk is quieter, and perfect for a short city trip. In winter I find the morbid charm very exciting, especially the Main City is completely empty, but to me personally the Baltic Sea climate in winter is just too cold – but I’m a fan of warmer temperatures anyway 😉 Depending on your preferences, you can visit Gdansk all year round.

    Alley in Gdansk Old Town

    How to get to Gdansk

    You can easily get to Gdansk from Germany by train, plane or car. There are also bus connections, but at least from Berlin this is quite a long journey (approx. 9 hours).

    The airport is easy to reach by public transport. It is also only 10 kilometers from the city centre – so cabs and Uber are also a good alternative.

    Money & Currency

    The currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). The conversion rate is more or less 1:4, i.e. 4 Zloty are converted to 1 Euro.

    Card payment is widespread, sometimes you can even pay in euros and get change in zloty. (Usually a bad deal). When paying by credit card, be sure to choose payment in zloty instead of euro or your currency.

    But it never works quite like that without local cash. That’s why I still withdraw some cash in Poland with my DKB credit card*, which allows me to withdraw cash free of charge from almost any ATM and I’m prepared for all eventualities.

    Get more info about DKB here*

    In the city you can also find some independent exchange offices, but the exchange rate there is worse.

    Houses in the Old Town of Gdansk

    Language & Communication

    In many places, information is available only in Polish, and even though I’ve been to Poland so many times—the language just gets the better of me. There are just too many consonants 🙂 At some point, I gave up trying to get beyond “Hello” and “Thank you” and resigned myself to my fate. Fortunately, many younger Poles speak English these days, so you can get by just fine with English, especially in tourist hotspots like Gdańsk.

    You can also find more about Poland here:

  • How to See Paris in Just One Day: Full Itinerary + Map

    How to See Paris in Just One Day: Full Itinerary + Map

    The imposing Eiffel Tower, the intricately decorated facades of historic buildings, sipping café au lait at a sidewalk bistro table, and the charm of a cosmopolitan city steeped in history: Paris never ceases to fascinate me. But the city is huge, the most beautiful sights are right next to one another, and somehow you just don’t know where to start with your sightseeing itinerary. Experiencing Paris in a single day (and mostly on foot, at that) seems impossible, but I’ll show you how to make the most of your short trip or weekend in Paris, even if you’re short on time!

    Quick Tips:
    ➜ Affordable Accommodations in Paris
    ➜ For Those Who Don’t Feel Like Walking: Get Around by Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus*

    View through an archway into the courtyard of the Louvre in Paris

    How to see Paris in one day

    I had an overnight stay in Paris in early summer for the first time in years and the day couldn’t have been better: I wanted to see a lot of Paris on this one day, enjoy the city, soak up the flair, gather a little inspiration. My sightseeing plan was ambitious, I was highly motivated and willing to check off a long list of places I wanted to see again or get to know anew. But in the end, everything turned out differently.

    The magnificent facade of the Louvre Museum in Paris, viewed from below

    The Eiffel Tower: The most important sight in Paris

    I didn’t leave the hotel until early noon, so I even had a little less than a day in Paris. But if you have a full day in Paris, I advise you to start the morning at the Eiffel Tower. Especially if it’s your first time in Paris!

    The Eiffel Tower is still the most important and impressive sight in the city! Even though I’ve been to Paris many times, the sight of it never ceases to amaze me.

    You should definitely go up, and right to the top, of course to enjoy the full view over Paris!

    Tip: The Eiffel Tower is very popular, and wait times can be extremely long! Especially if you’re short on time.
    ➜ Book your ticket for the Eiffel Tower here*

    Seine in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background
    The Eiffel Tower can be seen from far away!

    A day in Paris: Around the Arc de Triomphe

    From the Eiffel Tower, you can then walk across the Pont d’Iéna to the other side of the Seine. At the Trocadero, you’d better take the metro for a few stops to Place Charles de Gaulle; you’ll definitely walk enough, as I did.

    The metro stations can be real mazes, but the Paris Métro is so fascinating! For that reason alone I always enjoy riding a few stations in Paris. (For tips on riding the metro in Paris, see below!)

    Take line 6 to the Charles de Gaulle Étoile station.

    The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, with tourists and a cloudy sky
    The Arc de Triomphe on the Place Charles de Gaulle

    By the way, you can’t go wrong trying to find the right exit here, because the station is huge and you can exit at pretty much any of the entrances leading to the star-shaped Place de Charles de Gaulle. I can’t remember which exit I took, but it’s best to head toward Avenue des Champs-Élysées/Georges V; it’s actually quite well signposted. Once you’re above ground, you’ll immediately see another of Paris’s landmarks: the Arc de Triomphe.

    If you like, you can also go up to the roof of the Arc de Triomphe*! The Arc de Triomphe may not be quite as high and spectacular as the Eiffel Tower, but the view of the huge traffic circle below and the magnificent Champs-Élysées is very impressive.

    But here, too, the same rule applies (especially if you only have one day): Be sure to book your ticket in advance*

    Strolling on the Champs-Élysées

    This is where the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées begins, and even if you’re not into excessive shopping, the huge flagship stores here are in a class of their own, and long-established brands like Guerlain, for example, turn their window displays into veritable works of art on the building facades.

    Guerlain Boutique Paris with festive floral decorations and passersby
    Beautifully decorated: The shop windows on the Champs-Élysées

    At the end of the Avenue de Champs-Élysées is Avenue Montaigne, the street in Paris with the most famous luxury brands (incidentally, Marlene Dietrich spent her last years here). If you want to feel a little more glamorous, take a detour here. The many great storefronts alone are worth it!

    Place de la Concorde

    You’ll naturally find yourself walking along the Champs-Élysées toward the Place de la Concorde and the Luxor Obelisk—but be warned, it’s a long walk! I took the metro for the last bit, but there are also several buses that run that route.

    The Luxor Obelisk on the Place de la Concorde in Paris

    Jardin des Tuileries

    I had initially intended to head directly to the Louvre, but on a whim, I got off at Place de la Concorde and wandered through the Tuileries. It’s a fairly long walk, yet quite captivating: amidst the busy streets of Paris, the Tuileries stand out as a vast green oasis.

    People are relaxing in the Jardin des Tuileries with the Louvre in the background

    Louvre, the pyramid & Mona Lisa

    By now, at the very latest, you’re already overwhelmed by the splendor and history; and then suddenly you find yourself standing right in front of the famous Louvre. Bam. If you have a little more time (and are even slightly interested in art), you should definitely visit the Musée du Louvre; seeing Da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa in person is worth the trip alone. But the collection is incomparable in every other way, too.

    ➜ Buy your Louvre ticket in advance*

    The Louvre Museum in Paris, featuring its glass pyramid and visitors
    The Turgot Pavilion at the Louvre Museum in Paris

    Unfortunately, a visit like that takes a lot of time, so if you only have one day in Paris, it’s hard to fit in museums. Which is especially a shame in Paris. If you have more time, be sure to check out the Centre Pompidou and the Musée d’Orsay in addition to the Louvre. I think these two museums are also well worth a visit.

    Smiling woman with wind-tossed hair in front of the Louvre in Paris
    Très contente in Paris

    Seine & Quartier Latin

    Behind the Louvre, the route crosses the Pont des Arts. And here, with a view of the Seine, you’ll get that pure Parisian vibe all over again. The route continues along the riverbank toward the Latin Quarter. By the way, the next bridge is the famous Pont Neuf, the city’s oldest stone bridge.

    Pedestrians on the Pont des Arts in Paris along the Seine
    The Ponts des Arts above the Seine

    At some point, the first bouquinistes start to appear—the booksellers with their charming little stalls along the Seine. Here you’ll find used books, coffee-table books, and prints.

    A Parisian bookseller's stall featuring historical prints and books
    Stalls selling antiquarian books and art prints along the Seine promenade in Paris

    The Latin Quarter is Paris’s traditional student and nightlife district. Numerous restaurants, cafés, and bistros line the streets here. But the Latin Quarter is also quite the tourist trap. If you’ve stuck with the whole itinerary so far just like I did, by now your stomach is probably growling, and you probably don’t care which lousy tourist spot you end up in—I know that feeling all too well 🙂 So avoid Rue de la Huchette and try your luck in the side streets.

    A bustling Parisian alley lined with restaurants and bistros

    I can recommend Shiso Burger —fresh burgers with an Asian twist. The little place is located right on Quai Saint-Michel, a bit off the beaten path from the usual tourist traps.

    Notre-Dame & Île de la Cité

    Cross the Pont Saint-Michel to reach the Île de la Cité, the large island in the middle of the Seine—and, as a bonus, you’ll have a fantastic view of Notre-Dame Cathedral from here.

    Notre-Dame de Paris on the Seine with a renovation crane
    Notre Dame Cathedral

    I enjoyed a lovely break at Brasserie Les deux Palais, mostly because I wanted to sit by the street at a charming bistro table and savor a café au lait, just like in Paris. I’d say I definitely achieved that goal! Oh, and I also stumbled upon a wonderful tip for experiencing a classic old-school Parisian brasserie.

    Crêpe with sugar and cappuccino on a marble table
    Blurred streetlight in front of an old city building, in sepia

    Tour Saint-Jacques

    On the other side of the Seine, I discovered a true treasure (and, to be honest, felt a little disappointed that I hadn’t thought to bring a picnic, like many others relaxing here on their Saturday afternoon). The charming Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques, with its lush, shady trees, surrounds the Tour Saint-Jacques. It’s a lovely spot for a quick and peaceful break!

    Tour Saint-Jacques, a Gothic tower in Paris surrounded by trees
    Oasis in the middle of Paris: The Tour Saint-Jacques

    Marais Quarter

    I could have spent the whole day in the Marais: Strolling, drinking coffee and looking at gorgeous people. The Marais is the Jewish center of Paris, and here there are lots of exciting stores, the streets are bubbling over with neighborhood life, and Paris is exactly how I always imagine it to be.

    A bustling Parisian street lined with pedestrians and historic buildings
    A bustling Parisian street with a bakery and passersby
    Street art mural featuring a tiger, butterflies, and a Hebrew sign
    Mosaic street art featuring three variations of the Mona Lisa on a Parisian building wall
    Classic Parisian townhouse with balconies and white shutters

    I’ve put together a few tips for the Marais district here:

    Chanel Beauté Marais: a small Chanel boutique dedicated exclusively to beauty products

    Chanel Boutique with Rouge Coco Bloom Window Display

    Laize Bubble Tea Shop for minimalists

    Two people in front of the Laïzé tea shop in Paris

    Mariage Frères a Parisian tea house classic!

    Mariage Frères tea shop in Paris with a bicycle in front of it

    End the day in Paris: Tips for a successful evening

    Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

    If I hadn’t gotten so completely lost in the Marais, I actually would have made my way up to Montmartre. If you’ve already been to the Eiffel Tower, you’ve already seen Paris from above—which I consider an absolute must. But the atmosphere at sunset at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica on Montmartre is something truly special!

    So if you have some more time and your feet are still up for it, you should head toward Montmartre from here. It’s best to take one of the metro lines heading north and then transfer to Line 2 to the Anvers station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the Montmartre Funicular, which will take you up to the gleaming white basilica with its pretty towers and the most beautiful sunset.

    Evenings on the Seine

    Or you can take a romantic boat trip on the Seine! These cruises are quite touristy and anything but an insider tip – but also really beautiful. Seeing the sparkling Eiffel Tower in the evening while sailing through one of the most beautiful cities of all time is a unique experience.

    As with most attractions, the same rule applies here: It’s best to buy your ticket in advance—that way, you’ll avoid long wait times.

    The most popular Seine cruises

    Budget: Seine cruise starting at the Eiffel Tower*
    Mid-Range: Evening river cruise with music*
    Fancy: 4-course dinner cruise on the Seine with live music*

    Advertising / *affiliate link

    Tips for a short trip to Paris

    How to get there

    With a huge international airport like Paris Charles de Gaulle nearby and one like Paris Orly a little further away (this is where mainly budget airlines arrive), you’ll find a great selection of direct flights even from overseas.

    But there are also great connections from Germany with the French TGV high-speed train. From Cologne, Frankfurt or Stuttgart, for example, you can arrive in the middle of Paris at the Gare de l’Est in less than four hours!

    Getting from Germany to Paris by train

    Public transport in Paris

    Getting around Paris by bus and metro —it works like a charm! The metro stations may sometimes feel like an entire city underground, but you can get anywhere pretty quickly.

    For my day in Paris, I bought a day pass for all forms of public transportation, which actually wasn’t necessary at all. The only advantage of a day pass is that you don’t have to wait in line at a ticket machine every time. But since I walked so much, individual tickets probably would have been a better deal.

    Paris Metro sign in front of the Grand Palais
    The metro will take you halfway across Paris in no time.
    Many cyclists on a busy city street in Paris
    In the past years, Paris has become a super bike-friendly city and rental bikes can be found everywhere! Just download an app of one the local providers and off you go!

    Tip: At the ticket machines, the tourist day pass will be displayed first. Aside from a few discounts that nobody needs, it’s nothing more than a regular day pass, but it costs a few euros more. Just scroll down one page, and you’ll find the regular day pass for 10 euros.

    Info & timetables for Métro, RER, buses etc.

    Note: The Paris Métro can really get on your nerves, though, if you’re not familiar with the individual stations. Getting lost can sometimes be quite time-consuming, and the walk to the actual line is often long.

    It’s definitely more comfortable to get around above ground, and if you’re not quite that adventurous, just take a hop-on-hop-off bus. Yeah, I know—they’re embarrassingly touristy and expensive to boot—but in cities like these, it’s just worth it, especially since they stop right at the main attractions and you don’t have to worry about changing buses or anything like that. And you’ll save yourself some precious time.

    Buy a ticket for the hop-on, hop-off bus here*

    Food Drinks

    Paris is an expensive city, and going out isn’t cheap. It’s best to steer clear of tourist traps—they only offer mediocre food and grumpy waiters who’ll just ruin your trip to Paris. But otherwise, Paris, like any big city, is full of great spots just waiting to be discovered.

    A bustling square in Paris with cafés and people sitting under the trees
    In the Marais, you’ll find lots of great cafes and restaurants.

    Where to stay in Paris

    This time I was in Paris on business, so luckily I didn’t have to worry about finding a place to stay. That can sometimes be quite an adventure there, especially when you’re on a tight budget.

    Here you’ll find affordable accommodations in Paris

    Map for your short trip to Paris

    This map shows all the locations at a glance; you can also download it to your phone—it’s handy for checking while you’re out and about!

    The Louvre Museum in Paris, featuring the French flag and sculptures
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