If making your masterplan for 2014 includes planning the new sights you’ll see this year, then we’ve got some suggestions.
However small your travel budget, we’re blessed to be on the doorstep of so many incredible European cities. And, with cheap flights, a weekend in Poland can end up costing you less than one in Cork.
This year, we’re advocating skipping the capital cities, and seeing some of our neighbouring countries through different eyes. These cities are by and large cheaper to stay in, offer something a little bit different to their visitors, and not jaded by flocking tourists. Happy travelling!
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ITALY: Skip Rome, Visit Florence
One of the most romantic cities you’re ever likely to see. This Tuscan city has a rich and fascinating history, no surprise as it’s considered the birthplace of the Renaissance. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is only a short train ride away, but that’s if you can tear yourself away from the Ufizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace, the amazing food and wine and the crowning glory – the spectacular Duomo. Head in the summer to see Tuscany in all its colorful glory.
POLAND: Skip Warsaw, Visit Krakow
This gorgeous Polish city has some of the most beautiful architecture we’ve ever seen. The people are friendly, the city is charming and the prices… well, you’ll struggle to find ways to spend your money! Everything is so cheap, which is a very welcome change. Visit the stunning castle, take an educational (and heartbreaking) trip to Auschwitz, or simply spend your time eating delicious food and enjoying the tasty local vodka. If you can hold off until December, keep in mind that Krakow has one of the loveliest Christmas markets in Europe.
FRANCE: Skip Paris, Visit Nice
With an average 300 days of sunshine per year, you shouldn’t take too much convincing to go to Nice. This gorgeous city is the capital of the Riviera, playground of the rich and famous. Over the years Nice has been a haven for artists and writers, so you may even find some divine inspiration of your own. Stay here, but visit nearby Cannes and St Tropez while you’re there.
SPAIN: Skip Madrid, Visit Tarragona
Only an hour away from Barcelona, the north-east of Spain offers Tarragona. Chances are you’ll also have heard of nearby Salou too, a hugely popular tourist destination in the summer. Tarragona places you close enough to both Barcelon and Salou, as well as the wonderful PortAventura adventure park, to make day trips no big deal, but by staying here instead you get a more authentic Spanish experience, and the local food and drink for a pittance. Time your visit to coincide with the Castell festival to see human towers forming on the streets at night and outdoor concerts that will see you partying until the sun comes up.
GERMANY: Skip Berlin, Visit Munich
The capital of Bavaria, Munich has enough to see and do to keep you there for months. Your biggest problem when visiting will be narrowing down the to do list! You can visit the location for the 1972 Olympic Games and a wealth of fantastic museums, or enjoy a show in one of the many theaters. The shopping is pretty great too. You’ll get a great beer at anytime, of course, but if you really want to see Munich partying in style, visit during Oktoberfest.
