Not Joey’s Western Europe Backpacking Trip

Europe is an inescapable and unavoidable destination that is distinctly featured on every wanderer’s bucket list. Whether to try the appetising Pierogi in Poland, gratifying Belgian waffles, cheese fondue of  Switzerland, Moussaka in Greece or click pictures next to the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa or at the Colosseum. Europe has so much to offer that no tourist or traveller can ever miss out on the impeccable and breathtaking range of food, culture and history it offers.

The dream destination of every age group, Europe is an exceptional place, especially for backpackers. But, to search for a place that will give your perfect holiday spot is also the biggest task to find, because nobody wants to miss on to anything. Don’t worry, here is a list of perfect destinations that will help you decide your next vacation and the things that you should surely not miss out.

BUDAPEST

Capital, a city, a country, Budapest spreads its wings into various channels exceeding in every field. the city is worldly acclaimed for its gothic and renaissance architecture that is evidently visible through Budapest’s landmark structures making it every architecture dream come true. earlier Budapest was divided into two cities, Buda and Pest that were located on opposite sides of the Danube River. Around the 16th century, Hungary was governed by the ottoman or the roman empire. Under the span of their rulership, they built numerous Turkish bathhouses in Buda among whom several are intact even today. In the late 17th century under the rulership of the Habsburg dynasty, both the cities (Buda and Pest) were amalgamated to become a single city. 

Where to wander in Budapest?

• Built-in 1849, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge or the renowned chain bridge was the first bridge to connect Buda and Pest across the Danube. A former world wonder, the Chain Bridge is a large scale version of the Marlow Bridge on the River Thames in England. Visit the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to get a panoramic view of Budapest.
• The Hungarian Parliament Building or the Parliament of Budapest is a prestigious and noble landmark of Budapest. The parliament is the largest building in Hungary. 1,00,000 people, 40 million bricks, millions of precious stones, gold and 100 years later the Hungarian Parliament Building was formed.
• Andrássy Avenue is a recognised heritage site of Budapest. It was one of the most well conceded and fashionable streets in a world where you can discover anything and everything under the sun. A must-visit for shopaholics, foodies, art and architecture lovers with countless options of cafes, theatres, embassies and boutiques. the street is famous for State Opera House, Zoltán Kodály Memorial Museum, the Hungarian University of Fine Arts and the Ferenc Hopp Museum of East Asian Arts.
• The Budapest Castle District is where the history of Budapest shrieks through its museums and other significant attractions dating back to seven centuries. A city in its own world, the castle district has ancient monuments, galleries, hill, palaces and churches. a mesmerizing bird-eye’s view of Europe’s second-longest river, Danube. Bestowed by the Chain Bridge’s shadow and the Pest side of the city makes for the most ideal tourist location in the world.
• The banks of the Danube river is also known for being a mausoleum to the Jews that were killed by the Arrow cross-party during World War II. They were forced to take off their shoes at the banks of the river where they were shot resulting their bodies to fall inside the river and float away.
• The old yellow tram is one of the cheapest transports to board and witness the unordinary phenomenality of the ancient structures present in the city like the National Theatre, the Gresham Palace, Chain Bridge, parliament, the Buda hills, the castle district and the Gellért Bath. 
• Budapest is popularly called the city of spas for hosting the utmost number of thermal and medicinal water springs in the world. The Gellert Baths are famous for its rejuvenating and healing water for your body and soul.

WHERE TO FEED YOUR HUNGRY STOMACH IN BUDAPEST?

• The popular Alexandra Bookcafe was recently renamed to Café Párisi is the perfect eatery for coffee and cake aficionados. A majestic and royal meal ranging from Hungarian desserts, fresh salads to sandwiches can be devoured at the cafe.
• The New York Café is one of the oldest cafes in the city that ages decades back. It is one of the most beautiful and the beloved coffee houses of Budapest. A famous spot that has witnessed recognised writers and editors over the years, the cafe serves sinful desserts such as Dobos, Sacher and Eszterházy cake. 
• The Café Astoria in Budapest has been serving mouth savouring dishes for gourmet for over ten decades. A fulfilling breakfast, classic Hungarian dishes and world-renowned coffees and teas.

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MONACO

Despite being the second most teeny-tiny country, Monaco is one of the wealthiest and most expensive countries in the world. The country is known for the world’s most stunning casino called the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Monaco is flooded with most millionaires per capita in the world and sleek million dollars cars on the road, villas and yachts as the citizens enjoy a no tax benefit. Every May the Monaco Grand Prix, a Formula One motor race that is held on the Circuit de Monaco attracts millions of tourists to experience this once a year event. Indulge in a brunch at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel or wake up to the sunrise view or dive deep into the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, Monaco is just the perfect holiday destination that you have always been yearning.

A LITTLE GUIDE TO THE COUNTRIES BEST

• Monte Karlo is famously visited by tourists all over the world for the Monte Carlo Casino. The casino makes Monte Karlo a world know gambling centre. The casino is also home to the popular opera house Opéra de Monte-Carlo and the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. Alluring seasides, casinos, luxurious and swanky cars makes Monte Carlo every person’s dreamland.
• The Palais Du Prince or Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. The palace has been seen and been fought for by many foreign powers. The Grimaldi family to the french, the palace was demanded by the rulers to be fortified making it the first in the world. In the 18th century, the Grimaldis were forced into exile by the French men. The gold-embellished Blue Room, Mazarin Room and Throne Room inside the palace are surely not to be missed.
• Jardin Exotique de Monaco is a 1933 exotic garden of Monaco. The garden is known for its huge variety of succulents, cacti, agaves and many exotic plants of various American continents. It is also one of the most ideal locations that offer astonishing views of the city. It was started in the 19th century by  Augustin Gastaud, the Chief Gardener of the State Gardens of Monaco who grew the succulents in the Jardin St Martin.
• Inaugurated by Prince Albert I in 1910, the Oceanographic Museum or Musée océanographique is a museum of marine sciences in Monaco. The museum is noted for its aquarium where fierce sharks, tropical fishes and coral reefs can be seen granting an eye-pleasing view to marine life enthusiasts. The museum also serves as a Mediterranean Science Commission that is part of the Oceanographic Institute.
• The Jardin Japonais is an eminent traditional garden that spreads over 7000 square meters near the eastern hill in Monaco. A small paradise in the city that highlight unusual landscapes inspired by Japanese aesthetics. Spurred by the Japanese garden designers, the garden is wielded with plants that give a rustic and an ancient outlook to the garden.
• The Nouveau Musée National de Monaco or the New National Museum of Monaco showcases the rich art and culture of Monaco through the exhibition sit lays out in it two corners, Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber. The Villa Sauber provides a platform for theatre arts whereas  Villa Paloma showcases artworks of various creators.
• Built-in the 18th century, the Fort Antoine was a fortress that today stands as a celebrated open-air theatre. The fort hosts eccentric plays in the summer months.

THE OLD WORLD EATERIES OF MONACO

• A little Paris in the narrow lanes of the Monte Carlo lies the Café de Paris. The cafe offers a marvellous view of the fabled Place du Casino. The architecture resembles the old-style charm of the cafes in Paris. 
•  Emilie’s Cookies is a cafe that was started by two neighbours in 2007. The cafe serves one of the best mouth-watering cookies that will be served to you if you offer a coffee. The Persian architecture creates one of the best ambiences that makes every time spent to travel to this cafe worthful. Apart from cookies, do try the flavoursome bagels and smoothies.
• Bringing in the finger-licking food of Italy to Monte Carlo is a charming cafe known as the Valentin café. A unique range of coffees, pastries and an ideal place to interact with people of different cultures and countries, makes it one of the must-visits.

BERLIN

Berlin is the capital and the largest city of Germany. The city has a large number of inhabitants, making it the second-most populous city in the European Union after London. Lush green forests, lakes, rivers, canals and parks can be found in profusion. After the horror of World War II, the city was divided into West and East Berlin. West Berlin became a de facto West German exclave that was surrounded by the Berlin Wall and East German territory. East Berlin was declared the capital of East Germany, while Bonn became the West German capital. It was only until 1990, Berlin was declared the sole capital of Germany. The struggles, blood, sweat stories of the brutal dictatorship period are deep-rooted in the nook and corner of the city that can be witnessed. The history can be felt from the astonishing places like the Berlin wall, Jewish museum, the Holocaust museum and the Topography of Terror. The calm waters of Havel and Spree add serenity to Germany.  

TRAVEL BACK TO THE OLDEN TIMES

• Berlin’s most distinguished landmark is the Brandenburg Gate. A symbol of the Berlin and German division during the end of the Cold War. It holds a great symbolic value of peace and unity. It was earlier created as a division for the city where visitors used to climb to get a glimpse of the world behind the Iron Curtain. But, on the 12th June 1987, the iron curtain was abolished on the orders of Ronald Reagen.
• The Berlin Cathedral is a mystical church in Berlin, Germany. The church was augmented in the 15th century and finally ended in the 20th century. It is one of the most historical Berlin man-made creations. The church is made out of more than ninety coffer and tombs. The mosaic of the tombs displays glorious political and religious significance. The Dome’s organ contains an excess of 7000 pipes making it one of the largest in Germany.
• The Holocaust Memorial is a recognised memorial dedicated to the Jews that were murdered during the second world war genocide also called the Holocaust. The memorial is located near the Brandenburg Gate that covers an area of 800 square metres. It has also been designed by Eisenman that shares detailed information regarding the innocent lives that were lost.
• Situated next to the Prussian Court of Justice, the Jewish Museum in Berlin is the largest Jewish museum in Europe. The Museum showcases a form of documentation of the German and Jewish history that can be seen in the guarded collections and library. It also exhibits the famous social, political and cultural aspects of the Jews in Germany. The museum receives a footfall of over a million tourists every year. 
• Built-in the 17th century, the Charlottenburg Palace Gardens is a stunning piece of creation by Sophia Charlotte, the former Queen of Great Britain. The palace involves the sweat and hard work of three hundred years that include a Belvedere, the mausoleum of Queen Luise, the New Pavilion and a garden palace. During the second world war, the palace underwent vandalism but was soon reconstructed. It is one of the major tourist attractions of the city and the country.
• Amidst the tall structures that symbolize the struggles, wars, history of Berlin exists the Mauer park. Spend a relaxing day at the park to stroll through the wide lanes of the flea market while sipping your drink and listening to the foot-tapping music. The park is a fun spot to indulge in some spontaneous karaoke with tourists and natives of Berlin.

LOUNGE AT THE FINEST AND THE GREATEST OF BERLIN

• A stunning twenty-decade cafe named Zur Letzen Instanz in Kreuzberg, spend a delightful evening here enjoying your thick, flavorful and hand-roasted coffee with an overwhelming range of cakes, muffins and bagels to accompany.
• The Kaffee A.horn is a family-run restaurant that is famous for using locally produced ingredients to make delicious meals for its customers. Stop by here at any time of the day either breakfast, lunch, tea or dinner and enjoy the deliciousness created.
• The Prinzessinnengärten Café is known for producing over five hundred types of vegetables. The cafe was earlier a sixty-year-old abandoned wasteland but, today stands as one of the topmost organic cafes of Berlin. The cafe also offers courses ranging from composting to beekeeping to passers-by.

PRAGUE

Prague is the capital and the largest city of the Czech Republic and is one of the cheapest western European cities to travel in the world. Prague was the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia and the residence of numerous Holy Roman Emperors. Prague sits in the heart of Europe where it spreads its rich art, culture and history. The fourth-largest and diverse capital city of Denmark will surely leave you in awe with its astonishing architecture masterpieces. The enormous Prague monuments share the ancient history that has been included in the UNESCO world heritage sites.  The city is bestowed with recurring music festivals, parades and special markets. The vibrant nightlife buzzes of jazz music clubs and pubs are loved by one and all. Sail into the night while sipping the famous light and foamy Czech beer and get to know firsthand why the city is known to be one of the Beer capitals of the world.

THE PRESTIGIOUS LANES OF PRAGUE

• The Prague Castle was built in the ninth century as the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic. The Guinness book of records holder of the largest castle in the world, the Prague Castle has seen its throne occupied by notable rulers such as the kings of Bohemia, Roman emperors, and numerous presidents of Czechoslovakia. The Bohemian Crown Jewels or the Czech Crown Jewels that include the prestigious Crown of Saint Wenceslas, the coronation cincture of the Kings, the gold reliquary cross, the orb, sceptre, and the St. Wenceslas sword.  The castle is visited by 1.8 million visitors annually.
• Charles Bridge is one of the oldest bridges of Prague on top the longest river known as the Vltava. It was built as a replacement of the old Judith Bridge that had been subjected to damage due to a heavy flood. It was initially known as the stone bridge but was later renamed to the Charles Bridge in 1870. The Charles was of great importance to the citizens of Prague as it was the only means through which the river Vltava could be crossed, and people could travel from the Prague castle to the old town. It also led to the boom in trade practices between Eastern and Western Europe.
• Found in the Old Town quarter of Prague is an ancient monument known as the  Old Town Square Prague. It stars various ancient monuments like the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn and St. Nicholas Church that have been part of the town since the 14th century. It also features a 15th-century clock making it third-oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still in operation. The memorials of Jan Jesenius and Maxmilián Hošťálek that were beheaded after the Battle of White Mountain can also be seen. Other pre-eminent landmarks include the Golden Angel House, Blue Goose House, Red Fox House and the Storks House to witness an exceptional piece of artwork.
• The St. Vitus Church is a Roman Cathedral dedicated to Saint Adalbert, Saint Wenceslaus, and Saint Vitus. Earlier, it was only dedicated to St. Vitus, thus the reason behind its name. The church is one of the prominent pieces of architecture that holds an esteemed place among the hearts of its citizens. It contains the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors. Currently, it falls under the ownership of the Czech government as part of the Prague Castle complex. Standing tall at the height of 109 feet, the church is the largest of the country and is truly one of its kind.
• The most stunning, and unusual architectural creation, the Dancing House is adjoined by two towers that form a unique curve. The curve forms an image of two people that seem to be in a dancing position. One of the towers pictures the shape of a woman wearing a skirt. Hence, it is famously called Fred, and Ginger after the popular American dancers Fred Astaire, and Ginger Rogers. The Dancing House consists of corporate offices and hotels. But, the top floor restaurant serves an impeccable view of the city that should surely not be missed.
• The fifth best zoos in the world, the Prague zoo was initially opened as an aid to protect the wildlife, educate people around and to study zoology. Home to five thousand animals, the zoo is accoladed for being the seventh best zoo in the world by Forbes Travel Guide.

READ. EAT. PONDER

• Cafe Slavia or Kavarna Slavia is the most renowned cafe in Prague. It is one of the hotspots for artists and writers looking for the perfect place to let their creative channels to function while savouring on some delicious dishes. The most acclaimed person to visit Cafe Slavia is Vaclav Havel, the former president of the Czech Republic. 
• Café Louvre is popular being the favourite spot for esteem personalities like Albert Einstein, Franz Kafka, and T.G. Masaryk. The cafe boasts as being the perfect hub for great impactful world-renowned inventors. A wide range of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Visit here to especially taste the Viennese coffee and pastries.
• If you’re looking for a cheap but pleasant place to eat, then don’t look further. The Friends Coffee House offers a great ambience with cheap dishes to gorge on. The place offers all kinds of customers a perfect place to wander or gobble their pastries or paninis. People looking for meeting rooms or a shared workspace should definitely visit the Friends Coffee.

COPENHAGEN

Copenhagen is formally known as the capital of Denmark but is a roof to one of the merriest people in the world. A fishing village in the past, the city is the social, commercial and political centre of Denmark. It is also one of the leading financial centres of  Northern Europe with the Copenhagen Stock Exchange.

The Michelin star restaurant Noma here is rated as the best restaurant in the world that serves the most delectable cuisines. Surrounded on all corners by the sea, the buzzing energy of Copenhagen can be experienced through its amazing nightlife and cheerful souls. Sip their not to be missed coffees on a lazy day or go biking touring the colourful and vibrant city more closely.

WANDER THE SOLEMN STREETS OF COPENHAGEN

• The Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen opened its gates to the public on 15th August 1843 as an amusement park. It is the second oldest operating and second-most popular amusement park in the world after  Dyrehavsbakken in Denmark. Amusement park enthusiasts should definitely ride the Rutschebanen which is the oldest roller coaster in the park. 
• The little mermaid is a splendid bronze statue of a mermaid that is altering into a woman while being seated on a gigantic rock with an engrossing expression on her face. The mermaid statue is a gift to the city by the Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen who fell in love with the mermaid character when it was performed at the Royal Danish Theatre in Copenhagen. The statue is inspired by a famous fairytale written by H.C Anderson. 
• Grundtvig’s Church is dedicated to the Danish Philosopher N. F. S. Grundtvig. Laid after the birthday of Grundtvig on the 8th of September 1921, the church is an impeccable example of the expressionist architecture, making it a remarkable sight to behold.
• The Copenhagen Zoo is a zoological garden that was founded in 1859, making it an integral and oldest part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria in the Netherlands. Located in Frederiksberg, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in the world. The zoo is visited by over ten lac visitors annually. The zoo is home to 2500  animal species belonging to the South American origin.
• The Amager Strandpark s one of the most pleasant and unperturbed parks of Copenhagen. Initially introduced as a public park only, in the year 2005 a 2 km artificial island was added to it. An ideal location to spend your holiday running alongside the beach on the white sad, swimming inside the serene waters or kayaking through the waves visit this place to experience it yourself.
• The Copenhagen Opera House is a world-famous national opera house of Denmark. The construction of the opera house cost approximately US$500 million, making it one of the most expensive opera houses to be ever built. The opera house stands on the water facing the royal palace of Amalienborg. The mesmerizing interiors of the opera house feature Sicilian Perlantini marble flooring, and the ceiling consists of 1,05,000 sheets of pure gold.

SINFUL SNACK GUIDE 

• The Atelier of September is a pretty cosy cafe set up in the lanes of Copenhagen. The menu has a strong Japanese influence. There is an impeccable range of Japanese teas offered to customers., The hot and fresh variety of coffee and avocado toasts are must-haves.
• Grab your favourite book and head to the Democratic coffee that is a top favourite among the locals. The strong aroma of coffee and croissants being baked in the open kitchen cannot be skipped.
• The Kalaset is a rustic basement cafe that is perfect for a scrumptious and delightful brunch. Favourite among youngsters, the cafe is known for its scrambled eggs, Moroccan Lentil-Ratatouille and juicy burgers.

HOW TO TRAVEL IN EUROPE

There are various cheap ways through which you can travel through Europe without shedding out too many Euros. Megabuses, Eurail pass or by a flixBus. One of the cheapest ways to travel to different cities can be done through budget airlines like Vueling, Easy Jet, Flybe or Wizz Air. You can also hire a BlaBlaCar that lets you hop into a car with fellow travellers or locals. If none of these options suits you, you can also hitchhike your way to places nearby.