European Capitals You Must Visit at Least Once

Push pins on a world map.

There is a reason why most people place European capitals on their wish lists! Each and every capital city in Europe presents an intriguing combination of rich history, mesmerizing architecture, friendly people, tasty food, incredible nightlife, exquisite artwork, and many more. No matter which city you decide to visit, be sure that you will fall in love as soon as you arrive. You will fall in love not with another person but with small pathways, quirky stores, flowery balconies, and roads leading to the beach. Or, who knows – maybe you do fall in love with a local too! So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bag, buy that ticket and start exploring! But, if you don’t know where to go first, we got you! We prepared a list of European capitals you must visit at least once! Thus, keep on reading.

London, England

Without a doubt, one of the European capitals you must visit at least once is London – the capital of England! This capital is host to several million tourists every year. Some tourists see the fantastic London architecture, some learn about the United Kingdom’s rich history, and some just want to have fun in a city full of posh shops and restaurants.

The best way to experience all of the things mentioned above is to hop on a New Routemaster – a double-decker bus that will take you to all of London’s hotspots and allow you to take some Insta-worthy photos. For instance, it will take you to the Tower of London, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, and many more.

Moreover, when it comes to London, we have to give you some essential tips for essential travel – get yourself an umbrella as soon as you arrive. Rain is a common sight here, so if you don’t want to be disturbed by it, have a small umbrella by your side at all times.

A picture of Big Ben and London Bridge.
London will forever be one of the European capitals you must visit at least once.

Paris, France

Welcome to the City of Light. Or, let us say, welcome to the City of Love and one of the best European destinations for singles! Just like London, Paris is also one of the European Capitals you must visit at least once in your life! Or, if you are really lucky, visit it a couple of times as one trip is not enough to see everything this beautiful city has to offer.

Some of the sights you simply can’t miss out on while in Paris are Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triumph, Place de la Concorde, etc. But, don’t just look at these sights – learn about them! Find a tour guide who will explain these sights’ role in history. Moreover, while here, don’t forget to sit in one of those famous Parisian cafes and order an espresso and a chocolate croissant. And, check out the street vendors and buy a beret too!

Also, don’t hesitate to visit Paris in winter! The city lights will leave you breathless! And, when you get tired of all the walking and exploring the city, why not go to some of the famous ski resorts in and around Paris, such as Montmartre or Les Trois Vallées. Trust us, there are many reasons for a ski trip to Europe, that is, to Paris and France, but we will leave it up to you to find out. 

A view of Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Going to Paris must be on your bucket list!

Rome, Italy 

Ahh, Italy! There is not a person in this world who wouldn’t like to visit this sunny county where everything smells like pasta and wine and where everybody wants to be your friend. But, to understand the true spirit of Italy, one must go to its capital – Rome. Rome is, above all, a city telling Roman Empire’s history. You can see that when through the Roman Colosseum, Vatican City, Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, etc. And you can see that when just walking through the streets of Rome.

We assure you – once you start exploring the city, you will get an instant wish to move here. And why wouldn’t you? Just hire movers and let them relocate you. If you want to avoid stress when packing, the key is starting early. But, we wouldn’t worry about stress here – Rome is just naturally peaceful. 

Moreover, movers are not the only ones who can help you relocate – Trevi Fountain also can. Namely, it is believed that if you toss one coin into this fountain, you are destined to return to the Eternal City (Rome). And, if you want to return and also find the love of your life here, you must toss two coins. So, be careful what you wish for!

Trevi Fountain in Rome.
One thing is for sure – you will want to come back to Rome!

Athens, Greece 

We simply cannot talk about the European capitals you must visit at least once without mentioning Athens – the capital of Greece. Athens is, without any doubt, the oldest capital of the world. Historical landmarks stretched throughout the city for as long as the eye can see. Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka, Herod Atticus Odeon, Panathenaic Stadium, Agora, etc., are just some of the must-see places in Athens. 

Moreover, while here, don’t forget to go to one of the many museums and galleries. This is where you will be able to learn the most about Greek history and culture. And, when you get tired of all the sightseeing (which will doubt will happen), sit in some local greek restaurant and try some authentic food and drinks. The Greeks will welcome you with amazing hospitality and, if you are lucky enough, they may play some music or let you break some plates to celebrate your trip. 

There are many European capitals you must visit at least once. We mentioned just four of them, but you already know that there are many more with visiting. So, do your own research. Maybe you will find a capital that suits your preferences more. But don’t hesitate to visit the ones we mentioned either – they are on top of all traveler’s lists for a reason. 

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8 Affordable Places to Visit in Your 20s

Life in your twenties is all about having fun. Your career is on the rise, so you may not have much money, yet you have more energy and time to enjoy life. Very often, young people in their twenties have started their careers but haven’t started a family yet – a great time to travel the world. Well, if you’re one of them, this is a guide for you. Here are eight affordable places to visit in your 20s. The best locations to see something new, have fun, and don’t break the bank!

Reasons to travel more in your 20s

Still not confident about their job or future family, many young people are unsure of the best way to spend their free time in their 20s. But, we wanted to list a couple of reasons why traveling in your 20s is the best way to spend your money and time. Here’s why you should start planning your next trip as soon as possible:

  • You have more energy and time to travel at this age – the enthusiasm is pretty high in our twenties, once we’re independent and have more free time.
  • Urge to meet new people and have some fresh experiences – making friends is probably easier when you’re younger. That’s why traveling in your twenties and meeting new people and cultures makes sense.
  • Fewer responsibilities – as you’re independent now and still don’t have a spouse or children, you also have fewer responsibilities. This makes it easier to leave home and stay on the road for a while.
  • New experiences and connections – an excellent foundation for the social and business situations that are expecting you in the future.

Finally, traveling when you’re younger will ensure you’ve got a ton of stories to tell when you’re older. This will surely make the relationships with your future spouse, kids, coworkers, and friends much more exciting and prepare you for the new life chapter.

Where should you go next? Some of the best affordable places to travel when you’re younger

Thailand

If you’re into exotic travels and enjoy pristine beaches bathed in sunshine, then Thailand is a destination for you. Locals are friendly and welcome travelers with the biggest smile. Thailand is a country of beautiful natural landscapes – you see it in movies. Clear waters, greenery, and picturesque cliffs truly offer unique experiences to those who visit them. Combined with rich history, temples, and fantastic food, there’s not much you can go wrong with in Thailand. Finally, visiting this country will certainly not break your bank. Accommodation, food and drinks, and day excursions are much cheaper than in similar locations, so start browsing your next destination now.

Thailand scenery and nature
Thailand will astonish you with its powerful and breathtaking nature.

Cuba

If you’re into unique cultural experiences, then Cuba is the way to go. This colorful country has a lot to offer to its visitors – at very low prices. If you’re into sightseeing, active vacation, or just enjoying a resort – Cuba’s got it all. You can see some fantastic architecture, meet extraordinary people, try out Cuban cigars, and have a ride in their one-of-a-kind cars. One thing is for sure – Cuba is one of the affordable places to visit in your 20s.

Eastern Europe

One of the places you can be pleasantly surprised with is Easter Europe. The beauty of this area is that you can enjoy so many different things but still not travel a lot. Start with experiencing one of the best cities with exciting nightlife, Belgrade. Serbia and Croatia can also offer some first-class skiing resorts in winter. And if you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the beautiful coastline of Montenegro and Croatia. You can plan the route to have it all, enjoy it to the maximum and spend a minimum amount of money. And if you decide to make this travel a bit longer, take care of your items at home while you’re on the road. Place your valuables in storage so you can travel without worrying, knowing your belongings are kept safe.

Aerial view of Croatia
Easter Europe is undoubtedly one of the affordable places to visit in your 20s – you can do and see so much here!

South Africa

If you’re ready for a one-of-a-lifetime adventure, you have to visit South Africa when in your 20s. The country can offer so much, as it is home to amazing wild animals, plants, and the most beautiful natural sights. Night camps, safaris, and other experiences are available at different price ranges – depending on how much luxury you want. Its breathtaking coastline offers many ways to have fun and enjoy your best time.

Bali

The place that is also quite affordable and exciting is Bali. Its astonishing scenery perfectly blends with history and culture. At the same time, young people can enjoy lively nightlife at low prices. It’s probably one of the best locations in Indonesia, so it’s undoubtedly worth visiting. But, while you’re visiting Bali, Transparent International recommends storing your most precious items in sturdy boxes. You will want to make your trip longer and see other Indonesian gems. That’s why your 20s are the perfect time to do this tour – pack your bags, store your other valuables safely, grab your passport and go!

a historic building in Bali
Bali is for those enjoying exotic destinations filled with a rich history.

Turkey

The country is known for amazing shopping deals, unique souvenirs, the tastiest food, and rich culture. Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Izmir – there’s so much to see. It’s well connected by local and international flights so you can reach this country easily (and affordably) from all around the world. You will be able to enjoy cheap accommodation and be in one of the best places to visit while you’re in your 20s.

Cappadocia aerial view
Hot air balloon ride early in the morning? Visit Turkey for this one-of-a-kind experience.

Kos, Greece

Yes, Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are popular and therefore more expensive, but there are far more affordable places to visit in Greece. The country includes over 200 beautiful islands, and Kos is surely one of the locations to go to if you want to experience the vibrant nightlife and the most incredible beach times.

Nepal

Last but not least, Kathmandu in Nepal is one of the affordable places to visit in your 20s that we couldn’t skip. It offers a unique experience to its visitors that mixes breathtaking views, rich culture, and history. It’s a place for those into adventures and active vacations – probably most people in their twenties.

The Most Popular Islands to Travel to This Summer

An island in the middle of the ocean

Summer has finally arrived, and what better time to plan your trip than now? You might have found it difficult to choose where exactly you should spend your precious free time, or maybe you need a change of scenery without using your vacation days, so you might give traveling and working abroad a try. There are so many wonderful islands you can travel to this summer, but with our help, you will find it quite easy to pick your dream destination. In this article, you will find five of the most popular islands to travel to this summer, located on all corners of the globe.

1. Santorini, Greece

A view of Santorini, Greece, which is one of the most popular islands to travel to this summer.
A perfect island destination you can visit this summer season: Santorini, Greece.

Whitewashed buildings, blue roofs, and cliffside views; only one place comes to mind to most people when they hear such descriptions: Santorini, Greece. This wonderful island has been made thanks to a previous volcanic eruption that helped it become such a unique place to visit. Unfortunately though, over the past year, COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the travel industry, and Greece has also felt these effects. Currently, it has become easier to visit this breathtaking island, but only while following the safety precautions the country requires.

Renting a place has never been easier with the help of various websites where you can find proper accommodation for you this summer. Renting one of these hillside buildings may be exactly what you need to enjoy this summer season to the fullest. But if you are more interested in walking and exploring the area, then you can enjoy its wonderful art galleries, microbreweries, and various restaurants. Or, if you prefer, you may let your eyes feast on all the views this island has to offer.

2. Hawaii, US

Hawaii is a group of different wonderful volcanic islands surrounded by the Pacific ocean. They have been known as the perfect locations to spend your summer days, and they are called Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island of Hawaii. All of these islands have diverse landscapes and activities you can partake in. You cannot go wrong choosing one this summer.

It is important to note that Hawaii is known for its scorching summers, but luckily, there are many different beaches you can visit throughout the day. You may also want to explore the island, give surfing a try, swim with friendly dolphins, or if you are a foodie, you should try traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Hawaii is often regarded as a place filled with very friendly and eager-to-help people. So if you ever need help choosing a perfect restaurant to visit this summer – be sure to ask the locals.

3. The Maldives

The Maldives consist of even more islands – around 1200, to be exact. This means that there are almost 1200 perfect islands for you to visit this season. Sometimes it seems impossible to believe these islands are real and that such paradise on Earth does indeed exist. The Maldives is quite a remote place to visit, and traveling there might burn a hole in your wallet, but you can rest assured the cost is very just for one of the most popular islands to travel to this summer.

These islands have many things to offer, whether you are traveling on a tight budget or not. If you want to avoid spending a lot of your hard-earned money, you can contact local guest houses. If you wish to splurge a little, you can reserve a spot in various resorts. These resorts more often than not come with privately-owned islands. There are many activities people of all ages can do in the Maldives, so do not fret. The Maldives can be a great location to bring your children so that they can enjoy their summer vacation as well. One thing is sure – you cannot find a better place to look at marine life while diving and snorkeling.

Clear water and blue skies with a coast of one of the Maldives islands.
The Maldives have some of the most transparent waters you can find in the world.

4. Hokkaido, Japan

When it comes to Japan, many people have found it to be quite an attractive place to visit, and these days, it has even become one of the most popular places for expats. So, be wary of the charm of Japan because it might make you want to pack up your life and move across the world. Japan, in itself, consists of quite a lot of islands that might scratch your particular itch this summer.

Summer is the perfect time to visit Japan if you are a big nature enthusiast. You do not have to only visit beaches – you can go and explore their untouched hills, views, and forests. You can also take a dip in their various natural and unique hot springs. Hiking, cycling, and any other types of outdoor adventures await you here. But make sure to also take in their unique and ancient culture while also appreciating their forward-thinking technological advances.

A blue van driving on a road
Let the adventurer in you take the wheel by renting a van and exploring Japan’s unique sights this summer.

5. Capri, Italy

Year after year, Capri is the location people choose to visit in Italy, and for good reasons. This island has everything anyone can need – it has lovely caves, grottos, and old ruins that you can freely explore. But it also has different options if you wish to enjoy it in a more laid-back way. You might visit its beaches or update your wardrobe by stopping by various designer boutiques. If you are the type of person that likes original souvenirs that you can bring home, then this island might be the spot for you.

It is a very well-known fact that Italy has some of the best food you can enjoy. That means it might be a lovely time for you to take your taste buds on an adventure. You just might find your next favorite food. We are confident Italy belongs on this list of perfect islands to travel to this summer, and it might be the ideal island for you.