European cities for a short and affordable winter getaway.
Dreaming of a trip to wintertime Europe? Whether you love historic squares and impressive castles that look straight out of movie sets, want to unwind in thermal baths, or prefer strolls in winter nature, there are many beautiful citiesthat can offer you unforgettable experiences, without having to spend a fortune. Here are some ideas for low budget winter trips in Europe.
Krakow, Poland
A wonderful old town that feels like an open-air museum, the largest medieval square in Europe, and picturesque neighborhoods with a lovely atmosphere await you in Krakow, the second largest city in Poland that will charm you with its distinctive ambiance. Krakow was the countrys capital until the 16th century and, unlike Warsaw, which was leveled during World War II, it suffered minimal destruction, preserving its superb buildings that combine Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architecture.
What to see: Start with a stroll inthe Old Town (Stare Miasto) with its distinctive architecture. Here you will see Europes largest medieval square, Rynek Glowny, which looks as if it were taken from a film set.Visit the Historical Museum of Krakow in the Krzysztofory Palace or the Czartoryski Museum, which houses important works by local and foreign artists. Then walk along the famous Royal Route, admiring the historic buildings, and climb Wawel Hill to the fairytale castle.Plan a trip to the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mines,just 15 km. from Krakows center, anda visit to the Auschwitz concentration camp, located 60 km. west of the city.
Budapest, Hungary
Embracing the majestic Danube, with Budas hills to the west and Pest to the east, Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With Baroque, Neoclassical, and modern elements, picturesque bridges, museums filled with treasures, and romantic riverboats offering cruises on the scenic Danube, the capital of Hungary is a jewel by day and by night.
What to see: Cross the impressive Chain Bridge and go up on foot or by the picturesque funicularto the Castle District in Buda, which is rich in sights (protected by UNESCO). Visit the Royal Palace, which houses, among others, the Hungarian National Gallery, the Neo-Gothic Matthias Church with its exquisite stained glass and frescoes, as well as Fishermans Bastion with its seven turrets, from which you will enjoy a mesmerizing view over Pest.The Hungarian Parliament on the Pest bankis a landmark of the city and you cannot miss it. Go ice skating on the huge outdoor rink set up in Városliget Park and then warm up in one of the citys famous thermal baths, such as the Szechenyi Baths and the Gellért Baths. In the evening, head for a drink to the ruin bars, also known as bar-ruins, which are housed in abandoned buildings around the city.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Although it lies in the heart of Europe, the capital of Slovakia has only in recent years begun to rise on the tourist map as an attractive and alternative destination. Bratislava is the ideal choice for those seeking short and affordable escapes beyond the ordinary. The magic of the Danube, Baroque architecture, iconic socialist-era buildings, the castle with its panoramic views, countless museums, and the youthful atmosphere created by thousands of students make the city stand out. In fact, you can combine iteasily with Vienna, which is just an hours drive away.
What to see: A stroll through the charmingOld Town of Bratislavawill take you back in time.The most characteristic sight is the medieval Bratislavsky Hrad castle that stands above the city, gazing over the waters of the Danube. After wandering through the gardens with their statues and admiring the wonderful view, step inside, where exhibitions of the Slovak National Museum are housed.Bratislava has many distinctive museums that are worth visiting. The City Museum, the Museum of Arms in St. Michaels Tower, the Museum of Clocks, which houses antique clocks from the 17th century, as well as the baroque Pálffy Palace with its impressive mirrored corridors, are the most important.
Bucharest, Romania
Capital, cultural and commercial center of Romania, Bucharest is one of the most affordable and popular destinations for a city break in the Balkans, as it is considered budget-friendly and unexpectedly beautiful. The «Paris of the East», as it is called, stands out for its impressive sights and monuments, its beautiful historic center, and its vast parks.
What to see: The most famous sight is the Palace of the Parliament, built in the 1980s. The largest parliamentary building in the world houses the Romanian Parliament, as well as the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Take a stroll through the historic center with its cobbled medieval lanes and well-preserved buildings. Also impressive is the Triumphal Arch, built in its current form in 1935 and modeled on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Another highlight is the Romanian Athenaeum palace, erected in 1888 and today home to the citys concert hall. Do not miss the citys largest park, Herastrau, a vast area with lakes and a small island. The boulevards Calea Victoriei and Soseaua Kiseleff, as well as the medieval quarter of Lipscani, are ideal for leisurely walks.
