Paris – Mark's Travel Journal

European Capitals You Must Visit at Least Once

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.

Staying in a Hotel vs. Renting a Flat When Visiting Europe

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If you are planning a ski trip to Europe this winter or just want to visit the Old Continent at some point, you should know your lodging options. Even though a hotel might be your first choice, you should think about renting an apartment, for example. Rentals have become very popular during vacations in Europe, and tourists seem satisfied with this type of accommodation. However, both a rental and a hotel might have advantages and disadvantages. As a result, this article is here to help you decide which one is the best between staying in a hotel vs. renting a flat when visiting Europe.

Booking

If you are used to staying at a hotel during vacations, you already know how things work. You do some research, find the hotel that meets your needs, make a call, and you have a room reserved. Or, if you already know the hotel you want to stay at, you can make a reservation online. When it comes to renting a flat, though, the research might take a little longer. Many rentals are not verified, even on booking sites, and some of them might not have reviews. That can make it a bit harder for you to determine whether or not that flat is good for you. However, if you are lucky, you might be able to find a suitable rental pretty quickly. Simply look for those with the most reviews and a detailed description. Examine the photos, the location, and the amenities, and then compare them to the reviews. If they check out, you have a winner.

Payment

When renting an apartment in Europe, you should know that booking websites charge a booking fee. The fee is part of the price, and it will be handed over to the owner, but only after you check in. Even if it might seem strange, this procedure is there to protect the owner from fraud. Furthermore, some websites will need identification to make the owner and their guests feel more secure.

On the other hand, when it comes to hotels and payment, you have more options. For instance, you don’t need to pay in advance if you don’t want to. Most of the time, hotels will charge you either at check-in or check-out. Some hotels might encourage you to pay in advance, offering discounts for prepaid rooms. However, you can still choose to pay for the room at check-in or out.

Person holding money. — If you plan to rent a flat in Europe, make sure you have Euros or money in the local currency with you.

Prices

The price makes a big difference when deciding between staying in a hotel vs. renting a flat when visiting Europe. If you pay between $100 and $150 per night for a hotel room, a rental will cost around $40. But, of course, it can depend on the destination you choose. However, unlike with hotel rooms, you might be asked to pay a safety deposit for the rental. This deposit can vary based on the apartment, so make sure to check before you book it. Also, you will have to pay the deposit upon arrival in cash. Most rental owners don’t accept credit cards, so you will need to have some money with you when you check in, ideally in local currency.

Check-ins

When it comes to check-ins, hotels might have a plus. They have a reception, so someone will be there to check you in 24/7. You will receive the key to your room, and then you are free to come and go as you wish. In a rental, on the other hand, you need to set an exact time when you will be checking in. As a result, when you agree on the hour with your host, make sure that you will be able to arrive on time. Research the exact location of the flat and how to get there. It is the same as a hotel room once you have checked in. You can come and go as you please because you will have the key to the flat. However, if you share the apartment with someone else, you may have to share the key.

The advantage of hotels vs. rented flats is the reception that is open 24/7.

Safety

If you are concerned about the safety of your valuables while traveling in Europe, both a hotel and a rental can be considered safe. Most hotels have CCTV coverage, making it difficult for your items to be unsafe while in the room. Furthermore, hotel security knows who entered the hotel, when they did so, and where they went. It’s pretty hard to get past them without being noticed. In rental flats, you can also have cameras at the entrance, and you and the owner are the only ones who have the key. But, if you are skeptical and need to find a way not to worry about your possessions while traveling, you can leave them in safe hands in a rented storage space back home. Your precious belongings will be safe during your travel, and you can enjoy your vacation stress-free.

Amenities

When it comes to staying in a hotel vs. renting a flat when visiting Europe, a hotel room will win if you prefer comfort. Hotels can offer breakfasts, housekeeping, laundry services, or room service. In addition, the employees will help you with anything you need. For example, you can ask about the location of the nearest pharmacy or where to buy the most original souvenirs. At the same time, internet services may be poor, or you may be required to pay for them. Then again, in a rental, even if you have to make your breakfast and do the laundry, you might have a much better internet connection. In addition, you can look for a flat that has all the things that will make you feel at home. Air conditioning, a balcony, a separate bathroom, a TV, or a parking space are just some examples.

Final words

Choosing the best accommodation for your trip to Europe is totally up to you. If you are willing to pay more but have an easy check-in, no deposits, comfort, and more security, you should choose to stay at a hotel. But if you want to pay less, live like a local, have all the amenities you want, and all the space you need, you should go with a rental. Your preferences will dictate whether you will go with staying in a hotel vs. renting a flat when visiting Europe.

Best European Destinations for Singles

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person traveling single to a European destination.

Europe is an excellent destination for a solo traveler. You can meet friendly people, enjoy some great meals and learn a lot about art and history. Also, Europe is relatively safe for travelers and, because of the European Union, many countries have the euro as a common currency. But, if you don’t know where to start your journey, we made a list of the best European destinations for singles. Pack your bags and prepare for a great adventure. You will be booking a flight to one of these destinations in no time.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and one of the Europes’ top financial centers. This beautiful city is a great destination for a single traveler, and especially for solo female travelers. It is regarded as a safe city with a laid-back attitude that will make you feel at home. You can rent a bike and ride around the city’s famed canal networks, or you can visit one of the city’s many museums. You will discover artworks by famous painters like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Also, Amsterdam’s numerous cafes can keep you busy for hours. Rest assured that one day is not enough to discover all of Amsterdam’s beauties. Therefore, make sure you have at least a week to spend in this beautiful European capital.

Madrid, Spain

An inside of a building — If you want to see something spectacular in Madrid, visit the Cristal Palace.

Another one of the best European cities for singles is the capital of Spain, Madrid. It is also a secure city with an outstanding metro system that allows easy exploration. Best of all, you can do it on a budget. Furthermore, it is an excellent destination for singles that are looking for great nightlife. You can book a guided tour at night and explore the city alone by day. You will find amazing secret gardens, tons of museums, and exceptional restaurants. Mediterranean cuisine is at its finest in Madrid, and you can even learn how to make paella by taking cooking classes.

Munich, Germany

This amazing Bavarian city has a friendly small-town feel to it that will make you fall in love with it immediately. If you plan a trip during autumn, make sure to visit the famous Oktoberfest. You will have the chance to taste many different types of beer and eat the famous German wurst. If you don’t like beer, don’t worry, Munchen has a lot more to offer. You can choose to visit one of its 42 museums or join the locals in riding a bicycle through the beautiful parks. Also, if you decide to travel during summer, make sure to pack your swimsuit. You can go for a swim in the Isar river and have a picnic on the riverside.

Belgrade, Serbia

View of a bridge in one of the best European destinations for singles. — Belgrade offers impressive views during the night.

Belgrade is another capital that is one of the best European destinations for singles. The White City has a special charm to it that will keep drawing you back time and again. Also, this Slavic city has become notorious among tourists because of its incredible nightlife. It’s not only great to visit at night, but it also has amazing places to see during the day. For example, the Kalamegdan fortress is the jewel of the city that you can’t miss if you travel to Belgrade. Although this capital has had its undisputed rough moments, it somehow managed to rebuild itself every time. Even if it’s not your ordinary beautiful city to visit, the fantastic cuisine, the welcoming locals, and their famous rakija will make your journey there more than worth it.

Florence, Italy

Florence is one of Europe’s most beautiful towns, and it is ideal for solo visitors. In fact, it is better to visit Florence alone, so that you don’t need to compromise. While you are here, you can take the chance to see the famous Galeria Degli Ufizzi, where you can admire the artwork of Raphael, Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Also, the Duomo cathedral is one of the most iconic sights, visited by thousands of tourists each month. If you prefer to take a walk around the city, you won’t be disappointed. There are a lot of cafes and gelato shops to explore. Moreover, Florence is a great city to find original souvenirs that you can take back home.

Paris, France

Even if it is considered the capital of love, Paris is also an excellent destination for single travelers. Even more, if you don’t like to share your croissants. Besides the fact that multiculturality is the word that can describe Paris the best, here is where the word cuisine is at home. You must visit local restaurants and sample famous French cheeses as well as excellent wines. After that, you can see the Eiffel Tower and do some shopping on Champs Elise. Also, make sure to visit the Louvre museum to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa painting. You can rest assured that you won’t be bored while visiting Paris by yourself.

Budapest, Hungary

If you’re searching for a beautiful European destination for singles on a budget, look no further. Budapest is the best place to find stunning architecture, a rich history, and superb cuisine without breaking the bank. Here you can taste a great drink and learn about history while being in the same place. The ruin bars in Budapest are world-famous for being built from the ruins of buildings left after World War II. Also, you can relax in a Turkish bath from the 16th century or take a cruise on the Danube river. Wherever you turn, there is something to see or do in Budapest. No wonder it has become a must-visit city on any European itinerary.

A statue in Budapest, one of the best European destinations for singles. — In Budapest, you will see outstanding architecture all around.

Traveling alone through Europe

All of the cities we have mentioned are great destinations for a single traveler. They are safe, full of life, and inhabited by friendly people. Best of all, in all these cities, there are large communities of foreigners who can help you get around easily. Who knows, you may decide to move to one of these cities, and you will need help to become familiar with a new country. So, it’s nice to know that there are people in Europe ready to welcome you and help you settle quickly.

Prepare for a great adventure.

If you choose to visit any of our suggestions for the best European destinations for singles, rest assured that you will have a great adventure. Pack all the things you never travel without and book a flight as soon as possible. You might like it so much that you will want to visit all the cities we suggested. Bon voyage!