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Best Way To See Munich On The Cheap

Taking a city tour through Munich on the cheap. A cheap way to see the sights with bus 54. Discover Munich's top sights by bus route 54 Forget those overpriced Hop-on, Hop-off Tourist Buses in Munich. Instead, you can use cheap public transportation and do the same thing and then some. The standard Tourist Double Decker Hop On-Hop Off buses cost about 20 euros per person. A single Munich public transportation day ticket costs 7.90 and a group ticket for up to 5 adults costs 15 per day. A much better bargain for sure.  Tickets can be bought at kiosks or online at https://ticketshop.mvv-muenchen.de/index.php/tickets. Additionally, Munich has a number of other tourist ticket options that may be worthwhile if you plan on visiting different museums. They are: City Tour Card: The City Tour Card costs a bit more than the Day Ticket. It allows free use of all MVV traffic means (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram, bus) but offers additional discounts on some museums and tourist attractions. A big advantage compared to the day tickets is: This card is also available for 24 hours, 48 hours, 3 days, 4 days, or 5 days. The Day Ticket is only available for 1 day. One can get the ticket at all ticket vending machines. City Tour Card Information Click Here.   München Card (Munich Card): The Munich Card is very similar to the City Tour Card. It cost a bit more than the Day Ticket. It also allows the free use of all MVV trafic means (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram, bus) and additionally discounted entry to some museums and other attractions (e.g. elevator Olympic Tower). Advantage: One can get the ticket with the duration of 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days or 5 days. The Day Ticket is only available for 1 day. The ticket can be purchased at all MVV ticket vending machines with displays. For more information on the München Card click here.    Munich City Pass: It is the most advantageous but also the most expensive variant of tourist cards. The City Pass allows the free use of all MVV traffic means (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram, bus) and free admission to almost all Munich museums and palaces as well as free admission or discounts on many attractions and tours. One can get the ticket with the duration of 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days or 5 days. A big difference between the City Pass and the München Card or the City Tour Card, however, is that the City Pass is only available for a single person not as a group ticket, The ticket can be purchased only at the MVG customer centers in the central station and Marienplatz basement and at the Tourist Information on Marienplatz. A purchase online on the Internet is possible: www.turbopass.de See Munich By Public Bus With the Munich city bus line 54, you can get around the city cheaply - in any weather. The 54 bus (direction Harras) has 33 stops departing from Münchner Freiheit and ending in Harras. Find out which sites you can explore while on the bus.   Münchner Freiheit is the starting point for everything. The Münchner Freiheit stop.,  We recommend Café Münchner Freiheit for a delicious breakfast or lunch before a long day of sightseeing. They have a great breakfast as well as incredible cakes and ice cream. During the summer, kids can jump around on a huge playground right next door. The scent of roasted almonds and punch fills the air at the annual Schwabing Christmas market in winter. There is also a weekly market on Thursdays with all sorts of great food.  Before you leave: Take a closer look at the Münchner Freiheit station, which has won several awards. The lighting concept was developed by the world-renowned light artist Ingo Maurer, and the roof of the bus and tram stop is another architectural trademark of the district.   Along Leopoldstrasse to the Siegestor Now you can relax and enjoy the activity on Leopoldstrasse from the bus window. There's always something going on here at the shops, bars, and clubs at any time of the day or night.   When the bus passes Giselastraße, it is worthwhile to make the first stop at the Siegestor (picture). The Munich triumphal arch may not be as large as the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but its quadriga with Bavaria and four lions make it a great photo opportunity.   Experience nature in the English Garden   Next stop: English garden! You heard right: The 54 bus takes you directly to the Englischer Garten, where you can go for a stroll in Munich's largest park and if the weather is nice spend some time in one of the park's beer gardens. Get off at the Chinesischer Turm stop to enjoy one of the best beer gardens in Munich or go check out the local surfers.   The bus offers a perfect view of the park landscape of the English Garden if you do not wish to get off.   Villas and magnificent buildings along Prinzregentenstrasse Continue in the direction of Prinzregentenplatz through beautiful Bogenhausen, taking in the majestic houses decorated with stucco, arches, columns, and small figures. As one of the city's most important boulevards, Prinzregentenstrasse will amaze you. There is even some surviving Nazi architecture that wasn't torn down.   However, you will find more than just renowned houses like the Bavaria National Museum here. From the Friedensengel the view opens over the lower Prinzregentenstrasse to the Prinz-Carl-Palais - especially in summer it is worth watching the sunset here.   Isar River on Brudermühlstrasse The number 54 bus passes through beautiful Giesing via the Brudermühlbrücke, directly over the Isar. From here you can see the vastness of the Munich city river as you drive past. It is worth getting off: because there is always something going on on the Isar! Around the Flaucher, where bathers splash around in the summer, there are countless dogs and their owners, cyclists, and walkers around in every season. Another possible stop is for a good craft beer, it is about a 15-minute walk to a craft beer lover's hidden gem, Geisinger Brau Bräustüberl. If you have a day pass you could also hop on the U-Bahn there and go one stop to Silbornstrasse and save about 7 minutes of walk time.  *Note-the main brewery is just north of the Olympic Park and can be toured also. Tickets are available on their website. The newly designed Luise-Kiesselbach-Platz , Keep on riding (or stay seated)! Further down the road, the newly redesigned Luise-Kiesselbach-Platz awaits you in Sendling. Here you can leisurely stroll around the green spaces and visit the landmark Sendling, the stately home of St. Josef with its two bell towers. More sights and highlights There are also other highlights waiting for you along the route of bus 54 if you still have time. From the terminus at Lorettoplatz you can, for example, stroll through the forest cemetery. Do not hesitate to give it a try-It may sound creepy but it is pretty nice. The forest cemetery is home to lots of religions and beliefs. The first Islamic burial ground in Germany was created here in 1955. This was followed by another burial ground, the “New Jewish Cemetery of Munich”. A military cemetery is located on Tischlerstrasse, where over 3,500 victims of both world wars are buried. The Italian flag flutters in the wind at the “Cimitero Militare Italiano” in the new section. Around 3,200 fallen Italian soldiers are buried here. A memorial has also been erected in memory of the numerous victims of the “euthanasia” campaign, whose brains were studied by scientists at the Kaiser Wilhelm Institutes in Berlin and Munich. The brain specimens are also buried here...okay, that may be a little creepy.   Here you can find the timetable for line 54 And: Line 54 is not the only public transport that is ideal for sightseeing in Munich. Bus 100 (the museum line), tram line 16 and tram line 19 also pass numerous hotspots - just hop on. You may also be interested in https://europeantravel.blog/10-great-places-to-visit-in-germany/   Read the full article

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Germany-Austria Alpine Roadtrip

Germany-Austria Alpine Roadtrip: A One Week Road Trip Through Bavaria and Austria   I previously wrote a similar blog post that was a 10-day trip but I heard some feedback from some people who wanted a shorter trip.  Hopefully, this itinerary will help you plan your next Bavaria road trip, and don't forget to add a detour into Austria like this one does! This part of Germany and Austria is truly magnificent, so much so that I live right in the heart of it in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. In this part of the country, you can see people wearing lederhosen and dirndl year-round, not just at Oktoberfest. It is a part of the culture of the area. The southernmost region in Germany and northernmost in Austria is famous for their breathtaking environment. The Alpine foothills offer fantastic hiking routes to mountain lakes and summits. During the winter season, you can enjoy yourself going skiing, sledding, or ice skating. Whether you are looking for action or quieter moments - South Bavaria and Upper Tyrol hold plenty of great locations to create lasting memories.     German Alpine Road Trip with Austrian Detour in One Week Starting in Munich and ending in Munich – If you're short on time, the easiest way to do this German Alpine road trip is to fly into and out of Munich International Airport. Munich is one of Germany's most magical major cities, so don't miss out on an extra day or two there. Do you have more than one week? The Romantic Road in Germany can easily be added to a trip! THE FIRST DAY: FÜSSEN GERMANY  To help him withdraw from public life, King Ludwig II had a medieval German castle built on a rugged cliff overlooking a scenic mountain backdrop in 1868. Even though the building is constructed in the style of the 13th century Romanesque, some of the mural images are patterned after Wagnerian operas, including "Tannhäuser" and "Lohengrin.". The castle was opened to the public after King Ludwig died in 1886, and it has become one of Europe's most popular castles. In the city center, enjoy the cafe culture Visit Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castle Visit the Stadt Museum and see the Hollywood in Füssen exhibit which features exhibits from the movie The Great Escape. Take a hike to Marien Brucke for some outstanding views Driving Distance to Next Stop: 1 Hour – 59 Km   THE SECOND DAY: GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, GERMANY You can take a cable car to the top of Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain A short hike away from the city center is the Partnach Gorge Visit Lake Eibsee Visit the Linderhof Palace, the only completed palace of the King Ludwig II palaces in nearby Ettal. Take a stroll through the streets of the city and try one of the traditional Bavarian Alps restaurants During the winter months, go skiing or sledding Read a full story on Garmisch-Partenkirchen here: https://europeantravel.blog/garmisch-partenkirchen-bavarian-wonderland/ Driving Distance to Next Stop: 22 min – 17 Km   THE THIRD DAY: MITTENWALD GERMANY If you need to scratch a day off of this itinerary I would make it this one although if you have the time it is a nice little stop. One of the reasons to leave it is that it is so close to Garmisch-Partenkirchen is that you could stay in the same hotel for 2 nights if you wanted to.   Discover one of the most beautiful small Alpine towns in Germany Take a hike in the Karwendel Alps or take the cable car up and visit the highest distillery in Germany At the Mittenwald Brewery, which opened in 1860, you can enjoy a beer A tour of the Mittenwald Brewery can also be arranged on a Tuesday In the winter, ski the Alps and visit the Bavarian Alps of Germany   Driving Distance to Next Stop: 45min – 41Km   THE FOURTH DAY: INNSBRUCK AUSTRIA  Explore the beautiful streets of the old town Innsbruck's Seegrube cable car offers panoramic views of the city Take a stroll through the immaculate gardens of Ambras Castle Enjoy lunch or dinner atop the Bergisel Ski Jump The world-famous ski slopes are a must if you go in winter Driving Distance to Next Stop: 2 hours 17 min – 155 Km   THE FIFTH DAY: BERCHTESGADEN AND LAKE KÖNIGSSEE GERMANY  Ride an electric boat around the lake View the Bavarian Alps from the lake's base as you walk around Lake Königssee Take a dip in the clear, crystal-clear water and cool off (It is an Alpine lake so it is pretty cold). Explore Berchtesgaden's old town Visit the Eagle’s Nest Driving Distance to Next Stop: 1 Hour 17 Min – 72 Km   SIXTH DAY: HALLSTATT AUSTRIA The picturesque setting created by an Alpine lake, a beautiful town, and majestic views is what makes this site so attractive. Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also known for its ancient salt mine with the oldest wooden staircase in Europe. For those that follow Rick Steeves, this is one of his top places to visit in Austria. You can explore the downtown area on foot Visit the famous Hallstatt Viewpoint for a photo View Hallstatt from a boat on the lake  Enjoy amazing waterfalls and views from above the city on a hike You can explore the oldest salt mine in the world, said to be 7,000 years old   Driving Distance to Next Stop: 1 Hour 11 Min – 71 Km   SEVENTH DAY: SALZBURG AUSTRIA Visit the 11th-century fortress of Hohensalzburg Take a Sound of Music tour Enjoy the gardens and palace of Mirabell Visit the marble-domed Salzburg Cathedral Visit the Stiegl Brewery Visit the Red Bull Museum Visit the busy Getreidegasse for some shopping Visit Mozart's birthplace   Read the full article

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10 Beautiful Places To Visit In Europe

VISIT EUROPE'S MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES     Some of the most beautiful places in Europe Even though it is not the biggest of continents, Europe has a lot to offer visitors from around the world. Besides luxurious beaches, limestone cliffs, sleepy little towns, and lavender fields, it is also home to some of the best mountain views on earth. This list of Europe's most beautiful places is far from complete but hopefully, it will give you some ideas on places to visit. Take a look at some of Europe's most beautiful spots.  1. Provence, France   In addition to lavender fields stretching over the horizon, Michelin-starred cuisine, scenic roads, art studios, mountain passes, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, Provence stands out in France. 2. Hallstatt, Austria The picturesque setting created by an Alpine lake, a beautiful town, and majestic views is what makes this site so attractive. Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also known for its ancient salt mine with the oldest wooden staircase in Europe. These stairs date back over 3000 years. For those that follow Rick Steeves, this is one of his top places to visit in Austria. 3. Trolltunga, Norway Each corner of this place undoes the next. Located around 700 m above the Ringedalsvatnet Lake, Trolltunga is one of Norway's most spectacular and scenic cliffs. Located on the western edge of the Hardangervidda plateau, Trolltunga was carved by the icecap that once covered most of Scandinavia. 4. Meteora, Greece It is the largest archaeological site in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just four of Meteora's original 24 monasteries, built on almost inaccessible sandstone towers, survive today. It is impossible to find this type of surreal landscape anywhere else in the world! 5. Lapland, Finland The largest reindeer population in the world, unique landscapes, and frequent displays of Northern Lights make Lapland the perfect place for a perfect vacation. I celebrated my 60th birthday here staying in an ice hotel and eating reindeer burgers. Here, each season is unique. In the winter, it turns into a wonderland. Lapland's northernmost region is a fantastic place to rejuvenate in nature. Technically the Lapland isn't limited to just Finland and includes Sweeden but Finland is a very tourist-friendly spot to visit. 6. Sintra, Portugal This awesome spot seems right out of a fantasy novel, where lush greenery, exotic villas, and charming palaces peek through pine-covered hills. If you're here, don't forget to stroll around its cobbled streets and the Gothic national palace. 7. The Dolomites, Italy The Dolomites stretch across the northeastern part of Italy, and the scenery you get to see here is breathtaking. Those looking for adventure and those wanting to sample the rich cultural heritage of this region will find this region to be a perfect playground. Make your time here count while you are here. 8. Kirkjufell, Iceland It is one of Iceland's best places to see the Northern Lights, and also one of its most photographed sites. The Church Mountain is a distinctively shaped mountain that looks like a scoop of ice cream, or like the hat of a witch! 9. Las Medulas, Spain Located about four hours outside Madrid, you'll be surprised by the scenery. The ancient Romans used this spot to mine gold and created this beautiful yet unusual landscape using their unique mining technique at that time. 10. Micheldever Wood, England A beautiful forest surrounding Winchester in Hampshire, it is home to wandering deer, woodland birds, and beech trees. The forest floor is covered with bluebells in the spring, making the experience even more beautiful!   So I purposely left all the great places in Germany off od this list but you can see my top places to visit in Germany here: https://europeantravel.blog/10-great-places-to-visit-in-germany/   Read the full article

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Poland Travel Guide

Poland Travel Guide: Best 2-week itinerary for Poland   With its beautiful buildings, preserved traditions, and friendly locals, Poland is a creative, artsy, and colorful nation. Often overlooked for travel, Poland is stereotyped as boring, grey, and industrial, but that's simply not true! Rent a car and explore Poland's majestic national parks, stunning beaches, and picturesque villages. I hope you enjoy this Poland travel route.   Poland Travel Itinerary Poland is way underrated! Its location makes it less crowded than places like Italy or France. The beer is good and the food is hearty. There may be crowds in popular cities like Krakow and Gdansk, but once you hit the open road, Poland is peaceful and quiet. Warsaw and Krakow are Poland's two main airports, so depending on which airport you fly into you may want to alter this 2-week Poland itinerary. The itinerary starts and ends in Warsaw, but if you are starting from Krakow, you can follow this route: Krakow > Wroclaw > Gdansk > Warsaw > Zalipie > Krakow Day 1-2: Warsaw Warsaw will surprise you! Get ready to be amazed! In spite of World War II bombings, the city has a colorful old town as well as younger, more cosmopolitan areas with street art and a neon museum. Discover the old town squares, the city markets, and the surprising hipster neighborhood of Warsaw! Zalipie painted village Visit the hidden gem of Poland on your way from Warsaw to Krakow: Zalipie painted village! The village is a bit off the direct route, but it is definitely worth the trip. Every house in the village has been decorated with floral patterns, including walls, doors, sheds, and fences, for years. You should visit the village to get some great photos and to learn more about the unique folk culture of Poland. Getting here: It takes 3.5 hours to drive from Warsaw to Zalipie. Day 3-5: Krakow – The best of Poland Krakow is Poland's most popular city, and for good reason! With cobblestone streets, incredible restaurants, a yearly Christmas market, and historic neighborhoods, it is famous for its charm.  The city is also known for its proximity to Auschwitz - one of the largest Nazi concentration camps where over a million Jews lost their lives. During your visit to Krakow, we strongly recommend you visit Auschwitz-Birkenau. Yes, it is depressing, but from a historical perspective, it is a must-see. Discover the huge underground chambers of the Wieliczka Salt Mines, which span over 300 km! They make similar mines in Austria and Germany pale in comparison. The drive directly from Warsaw to Krakow takes 3.5 hours, but we recommend stopping at Zalipie painted village en route. The drive from Zalipie to Krakow takes 1.5 hours. Public transport: Rail service from Warsaw to Krakow departs daily every 2.5 hours; buses are available every 4 hours.  Day 6-7: Wroclaw Wroclaw, pronounced ‘vrots-wahf’, has a lot of quirky sights, traditions, and stories to tell. Whether it is hunting for the gnomes hidden all around the city or watching the famous lamplighter, there is always something different and exciting on offer here. There is also a beautiful old town in true Polish style, with its colored grand townhouses, cobbled squares, and amazing cathedrals. In addition, it is close to Książ Castle in Poland and the incredible Adrspach-Teplice park in the Czech Republic! Krakow to Wroclaw: 3 hours driving. There is also a direct train that takes four hours. Day 8-10: Poznan or Lodz Take a break along the way to Gdansk by stopping at either Poznan or Lodz. Both cities can be reached by car in 2.5 hours from Wroclaw. Poznan Poznan has one of Poland's most picturesque town squares as well as a beautiful town hall. At noon, watch two mechanical goats headbutt each other twelve times on the town hall's clock. It is similar to Munich’s famous Marienplatz with its jousting knights. Polish history and modernity are reflected perfectly in this city. Lodz By Zorro2212 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25785075 Alternatively, visit Lodz, a city that is still largely unknown to tourists. Restaurants and hipster bars now occupy former factories in the city. The industrial look blends well with the beautiful street art scattered across the city. Day 11-13: Gdansk By Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28149480 Poland's northernmost city, Gdansk, is the perfect place to end your Poland travel itinerary. There are endless rows of mansions with rainbow colors and ornate carvings in Warsaw, which is probably the most vibrant of all the Polish cities so far. Furthermore, you should allow yourself a full day to explore the countryside around Gdansk. Sopot beach, Kepa Redlowska national park, as well as the circular fortress at the Vistula river's mouth are just some of the highlights. Getting to Gdansk: It takes about four hours to drive from Poznan or Lodz to Gdansk. If you don't have a car, you can take trains from both cities to Gdansk. Day 14: Ending your Poland Road Trip Beforehand, check if you have the option to fly back home from Gdansk. There are a limited number of international flights from Gdansk. If you cannot do that, head back to Warsaw for your flight, which takes 4 hours by car or 3.5 hours by train. Costs of Traveling in Poland It is very cheap to travel in Poland! The cost of direct trains can range from 15-30 USD, and the cost of buses is a fraction of that. There is particularly cheap food and drink in Poland, with a traditional Polish meal of Pierogi costing as little as 4 USD and beer as low as 50 cents! Budget Hotel: 30 - 80 USD per night The cost of a night at a hostel ranges from 15 to 30 USD About 15 to 25 dollars per day for food Transportation: 10 - 40 USD per day The price of gas is 1.15 USD per liter (3.7 liters per gallon) A Guide to Getting Around Poland Getting around Poland is easy, with good public transportation connections that are reasonably priced. Although the distances between cities are long, you can still explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Poland if you rent a car. When is the best time to visit Poland A great time to visit Poland is between March and June. The weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom, so you can enjoy yourself while you drive through the beautiful green countryside full of wildflowers. If you would also like to see the famous Zalipie painted cottage competition, June is a wonderful time to visit! Christmas Markets in Poland Poland is also known for its cold winters and amazing Christmas markets. Visiting during December allows you to see the variety of Christmas traditions from town to town, stunning twinkling lights, and frozen lakes. Be sure to visit: https://europeantravel.blog/ for more interesting places to visit in Europe Read the full article

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Top Places To Celebrate Oktoberfest In 2021 in Munich

The Top Places To Celebrate Oktoberfest In 2021 in Munich During Covid Unfortunately, because of Covid Oktoberfest in Munich is once again canceled. They just announced that barring any national regulations they intend to have the festival again in 2022 probably only for those that are vaccinated and also who have a negative test.  So what about 2021? Well, the following list of bars, breweries, and restaurants have banded together to offer special Oktoberfest treats during the traditional Oktoberfest period.  In a city whose name is practically synonymous with beer, there will be plenty of choices of great places to go to. You'll never run out of options in Munich no matter what your taste may be. This guide will hopefully show you some places that you may not have been aware of and that can be enjoyed during Oktoberfest or at any time of year.  Andechser am Dom Over the past 20 years, the Krätz family has offered Bavarian coziness in Andechser with a view of the Frauenkirche's sundial. As part of the charm of Andechs Monastery, you can view ceiling paintings painted by Rainer Maria Latzke and Gothic wall paneling. It is one of the few places that you can find Doppelbock, a strong-malty brew year round plus the food is excellent. I have been a frequent visitor to this place (and in its previous location-as well as Kloster Andechs for over 20 years. It is at the top of the list because it is one of my favorites. Address & Info:  Frauenplatz 7, 80331 Munich www.andechser-am-dom.de Tel. 089 24 29 29 20 info@andechser-am-dom.de    Augustiner am Dom At the Augustiner am Dom, you can drink fresh beer from a wooden barrel. In the kitchen, Peter Schmutzer is extremely committed to sourcing products from the area: the brown trout come from the Isartaler Aumühle and the Lugeder farmers' harvest from Pleiskirchen. One of the best features is its convenient location next to Andechser am Dom Address & Info:  Frauenplatz 8, 80331 Munich www.augustineramdom.de Tel. 089 23 23 84 80 info@augustineramdom.de  Photo: Anette Göttlicher Augustiner am Platzl Barbara and Oliver Wendel pamper their guests with Augustiner beer, Oktoberfest delicacies, and Bavarian music. The hosts look forward to their visitors. If you were unaware, Augustiner is the local brew most preferred by locals. Located down the street from the famous Hofbrauhaus. Address & Info:  Orlandostraße 5, 80331 Munich www.augustiner-am-platzl.de Tel. 089 370 17 170 Willkommen@augustiner-am-platzl.de Augustiner Klosterwirt Augustiner beer was brewed here 700 years ago. The bell still rings when a new keg is tapped. Located near the front part of the Frauenkirch. Be sure and ask if you can get a seat in the Tonnensaal Room for a unique dining experience.   Address & Info:  Augustinerstraße 1, 80331 Munich www.augustiner-klosterwirt.de Tel. 089 55 05 44 66 Willkommen@augustiner-klosterwirt.de Augustiner Stammhaus In the lively pedestrian zone between Marienplatz and Stachus is the last original Munich brewery restaurant. All sausage specialties come from the in-house butcher's shop. Landlord Thomas Vollmer, who runs the Augustiner tent at the Oktoberfest, suggests the Bierkutscher goulash, braised in Edelstoff beer and I concur. Address & Info:  Neuhauser Strasse 27, 80331 Munich www.augustiner-restaurant.com Tel. 089 23 18 32 57 mail@augustiner-restaurant.com Photo: Anette Göttlicher Ayinger am Platzl Across the street from the Hofbrauhaus. From the Aying family brewery, the inn serves tasty beer on the historic Platzl. Seven different types are drawn fresh from the barrel every day at Peter Inselkammer, the host of the Armbrustschützenzelt. This was once one of my favorite spots but has dropped off not because of the food or beer but because they removed the horseradish soup from the menu. It is still very good and I prefer the food over what is across the street at the Hofbrauhaus. They also tap a fresh wooden cask every day around 4:30 or 5:00. Address & Info:  Platzl 1a, 80331 Munich www.ayinger-am-platzl.de Tel. 089 23 70 36 66 servus@ayinger-am-platzl.de Ayinger in der Au In the Ayinger in,  der Au, owned by the Inselkammer family from the Armbrustschützenzelt, hops are a real way of life. During your visit you sit in a brewery cellar and listen to the beer flowing from chilled wooden barrels, you'll see typical brewery materials such as copper, wood, and loden, which are tastefully and carefully built. This pub is modern and traditional at the same time. Address & Info:  Mariahilfplatz 4, 81541 Munich www.ayinger-in-der-au.de Tel. 089 62 23 37 36 66 servus@ayinger-in-der-au.de Chinesischer Turm Beer Garden At the "SCHMANKERL Kiosk" or the beer garden, Landlady Antje Schneider always offers good food reminiscent of an Oktoberfest tent. The beer garden Chinesischer Turm is located in the English Garden (Englischer Garten), Munich's largest park area. Address & Info:  Englischer Garten 3, 80538 Munich www.chinaturm.de Tel. 089 38 38 73 27 info@chinaturm.de? Bratwurstherzl at the Viktualienmarkt Clearly, this place is all about the sausage. Legendary Nuremberg sausages are prepared over an open beechwood fire. It is sometimes possible to hear hearty folk music. If you sit at a table with a cloth cover you get table service, without the cloth it is self-service. Address & Info:  Dreifaltigkeitsplatz 1, 80331 Munich www.bratwurstherzl.de Tel. 089 29 51 13 mail@bratwurstherzl.de Brenner Restaurant In the Brenner, old courtly horse hall architecture is combined skillfully with modern features. Moreover, anyone who spends an evening under the olive trees on the terrace with Jean-Marc Ferrara and Tobias Mushövel never doubts that Munich is really the northernmost city in Italy. Address & Info:  Maximilianstrasse 15, 80539 Munich www.brennergrill.de Tel. 089 45 22 880 info@brennergrill.de Photo: Anette Göttlicher Der Pschorr Whether it's braised ox veal out of Murnau-Werdenfelser beef or ice-cold wooden draft beer, you will find it delicious: Der Pschorr am Viktualienmarkt, home is on the plate and tradition is in the glass ... all year round in a relaxed atmosphere with a view of the market bustle. Bonus: Located next to Eataly with some delicious Italian treats. Address & Info:  Viktualienmarkt 15, 80331 Munich www.der-pschorr.de Tel. 089 442 38 39 40 info@der-pschorr.de   Donisl Peter Reichert, the new host at Donisl am Marienplatz, is paying particular attention to the Bavarian attitude towards life. Munich cuisine and Hacker-Pschorr beer freshly tapped await guests - more tradition is hardly possible. Address & Info: Weinstrasse 1, 80333 Munich www.donisl.com Tel. 089 242 93 90 info@donisl.com Giesinger Garten Between Columbus and Candidplatz, delicious food and drink can be enjoyed in Fritz Kustatscher's (Fischer-Vroni's) Giesinger Garten. You can dine in style in the restaurant and in the warmer months, you can drink outside in comfort.  Address & Info:  Gerhardstrasse 4, 81543 Munich www.giesinger-garten.de Tel. 089 20 18 19 16 mail@giesinger-garten.de Goldig im Boettners In the past few years, Goldig im Boettners has gained popularity as an essential destination for those who enjoy Mediterranean dishes. Landladies Irene Scopel and Lisa Strauss rely on creativity when it comes to cooking and pays attention to seasonal ingredients. Address & information Pfisterstraße 9, 80331 Munich www.goldig-muc.de/ Tel: 089 24210372 info@goldig-muc.de Hackershaus The history of the old hacker's house goes back to the 15th century. The brewery was referred to as "Prew im Haggenviertel" until the 18th century. Since January 2020, the Alte Hackerhaus has been managed by Christine and Lorenz Stiftl. What a time to open a place…. Address & Info: Sendlinger Strasse 14, 80331 Munich www.hackerhaus.de Tel. 089 260 50 26 hackerhaus@stiftl.de Photo: Anette Göttlicher Haxnbauer in the Scholastikahaus Located in Munich's center, the old city bar is part of a historical building that dates back to the 14th century: the Scholastikahaus. The Kufflers (Oktoberfest wine tent proprietors) had the restaurant extensively restored. Today, the Haxnbauer is a meeting place for long-time Munich residents and guests from all over the world. On the pig's knuckle grill, finely seasoned pork and veal knuckles cook slowly and openly over beech charcoal to create crispy delicacies. Address & Info: Sparkassenstrasse 6, 80331 Munich www.kuffler.de Tel. 089 216 65 40 haxnbauer@kuffler.de Hirschau "Located in an idyllic, quiet location on the edge of the English Garden" - there the Hagn and Spendler families from the Löwenbräu Oktoberfest festival tent offer delicious delicacies without end: fish on the stick like at the Oktoberfest, snacks, tasty beer, and more. Address & Info: Gyßlingstrasse 15, 80805 Munich www.hirschau-muenchen.de Tel. 089 360 90 490 info@hirschau-muenchen.de Hochreiter's Steirer am Markt Located directly on the Viktualienmarkt, Hochreiter's Steirer embodies coziness and a passion for high-quality food and drink: Fried chicken and boiled beef, Styrian minced meat, pumpkin seed cream or apricot dumplings can be enjoyed every day by the Hochreiter family. Address & Info: Dreifaltigkeitsplatz 4, 80331 Munich www.steirer-am-markt.de Tel. 089 255 49 15 10 info@steirer-am-markt.de Hofbräuhaus It is probably the world's most famous pub. The 420-year-old Hofbräuhaus has a legendary history. In the Schwemme, in the Bräustüberl or in the historic ballroom, musicians play real Bavarian pub music every day. I often call this place a tourist trap because every tourist to Munich comes here. It is traditional for sure but I prefer to eat and drink elsewhere except when visitors are in town. Address & Info:  Platzl 9, 80331 Munich www.hofbraeuhaus.de Tel. 089 290 13 61 00 hbteam@hofbraeuhaus.de Hofbräukeller on Wiener Platz Here, the culinary aspect is very traditional: The host siblings Silja Schrank Steinberg and Friedrich Steinberg spoil you on Wiener Platz with the original delicacies from the Hofbräu festival tent.  Address & Info: Innere Wiener Straße 19, 81667 Munich www.hofbraeukeller.de Tel. 089 45 99 25-0 info@hofbraeukeller.de Gasthaus Jagdschlössl A variety of typical Bavarian and Austrian delicacies are served in the original Munich restaurant directly on Rotkreuzplatz. The hunting lodge run by the Oktoberfest landlords Stadtmüller and Kustatscher (Fischer-Vroni) is one of the few long-established, traditional inns in Neuhausen. Address & Info: Nymphenburger Strasse 162, 80634 Munich www.jagdschloessl-muenchen.de Tel. 089 168 92 41 Käfer-Schänke Restaurant Choosing the Käfer-Schänke restaurant is choosing enjoyment, well-being, culture, and cuisine in perfect harmony. Here you can enjoy delicious dishes courtesy of the Käfer festival kitchen, along with beer, wine, or a special aperitif. Address & Info: Prinzregentenstrasse 73, 81675 Munich www.feinkost-kaefer.de Tel. 089 416 82 47 wiesn@feinkost-kaefer.de Kilian's Irish Pub Every major city in Europe has Irish Pubs. Kilians Irish Pub is situated in the heart of Munich, beside the Frauenkirche. Kilians has live music every night, Address & Info: Frauenplatz 11, 80331 Munich www.kiliansirishpub.com Tel. 089 24 21 98 99 kilians@pdpf.de Kugler Alm A delicious ox roast is served in the beer garden in Deisenhofen, near Munich, as part of the Oktoberfest festivities. Bellissimo: Look forward to “Dolce Vita” dishes and new creations with the finest ox meat prepared by the Italian chef Andrea de Carlo. Address & Info:  Linienstraße 93, 82041 Oberhaching www.kugleralm.de Tel. 089 61 39 01-20 info@kugleralm.de Landersdorfer & Innerhofer The two owners Johann Landersdorfer and Robert Innerhofer have been present with their restaurant in downtown Munich since 2000 and have long since become an institution for friends of fine dining. While Johann “Hans” offers market-fresh products for a unique menu, Robert is at the guests' side with advice, action, and a well-stocked wine cellar. Address & Info: Hackenstrasse 6-8, 80331 Munich www.landersdorferundinnerhofer.de Tel. 089 26 01 86 37 info@landersdorferundinnerhofer.de Photo: Anette Göttlicher Leger am Dom Verena Able, the experienced daughter of the Able family, brings all the highlights from the Marstall tent of the Oktoberfest directly to her restaurant at the Frauenkirche. It's just a nice, easy, and casual place. Address & Info: Kaufingerstraße 24, 80331 Munich www.legeramdom.de Tel. 089 21 02 05 30 info@legeramdom.de Lindwurmstüberl In Munich, it has a distinctive facade color and a sunny roof terrace, which are still almost a locals-only secret. You will love the fish on a stick that you know from the Fischer-Vroni Oktoberfest tent. Address & Info: Lindwurmstrasse 32, 80337 Munich www.lindwurmstueberl-muenchen.de Tel. 089 53 88 65 31 post@lindwurmstueberl-muenchen.de Little London - Bar & Grill 140 different types of gins and 140 different kinds of whiskey - Little London has many things going for it, as well as having an excellent selection of steaks.  Address & Info: Tal 31, 80331 Munich www.little-london.de Tel. 089 122 23 94 70 info@little-london.de Löwenbräukeller Am Stiglmaierplatz The Reinbold family owns the Löwenbräukeller which is a landmark at the Stiglmaierplatz in Munich. Its steeple is known by everyone. During the Oktoberfest, they manage the Schützenfestzelt tent. Most Munich residents have already visited the beer garden. Try the Löwenburger. Once Starkbierfest resumes it is also one of the better places to go to celebrate. Address & Info: Nymphenburger Strasse 2, 80335 Munich www.loewenbraeukeller.com Tel. 089 52 60 21 info@loewenbraeukeller.com Cafe Luitpold In addition to a café, a pastry shop, and a restaurant, Cafe Luitpold is an urban coffee house. In particular, it delights gourmets and has been awarded by the Michelin Guide for seven years. Address & Info: Brienner Strasse 11, 80333 Munich www.cafe-luitpold.de Tel. 089 24 28 750 info@cafe-luitpold.de Münchner Stubn Tradition and zeitgeist meet at the Münchner Stubn of the Wickenhäuser & Egger family across from Munich Central Train Station. Guests of the rustic inn can savor Bavarian specialties and Munich specialties while sipping beer from the original Munich wooden barrel. Address & Info: Bayerstraße 35-37, 80335 Munich www.muenchner-stubn.de Tel. 089 551 11 33 30 servus@muenchner-stubn.de Photo: Anette Göttlicher Oktoberfest Museum The Beer & Oktoberfest Museum's museum parlor is located in Munich's oldest still-preserved town house. The Beer & Oktoberfest Museum opened here in September 2005, sponsored by the Edith Haberland Wagner Foundation. Address & Info: Sterneckerstraße 2, 80331 Munich www.museumsstueberl.de Tel. 089 24 24 39 41 info@museumsstueberl.de Nuremberg Bratwurst Glöckl am Dom The best sellers here are, of course, the delicious grilled sausages. Using an in-house recipe, they are prepared daily and grilled over an open beechwood fire. These sausages aren't the only reason for the restaurant's fame. The atmosphere and the beer make it a great place to visit. Since 2006, Jürgen Morawek has run the Nuremberg Bratwurst Glöckl am Dom. Address & Info: Frauenplatz 9, 80331 Munich www.bratwurst-gloeckl.de Tel. 089 291 94 50 info@bratwurst-gloeckl.de Palais Keller in the Bayerischer Hof Hotel A visitor entering the Palais Keller for the first time is instantly awestruck. The stairs lead down into a vault that is over 550 years old and - it seems - into its own world.  Address & Info: Promenadeplatz 2-6, 80333 Munich www.bayerischerhof.de Tel. 089 212 09 90 portiers@bayerischerhof.de Paulaner am Nockherberg In addition to its large beer garden and restaurant, the Paulaner am Nockherberg has its own brewery that has two huge brewing kettles on the premises. It doesn't get any fresher than that when it comes to beer. The same is true about freshness when it comes to food: Here, even the food is prepared à la minute in the beer garden. Insider tip: The spinach spaetzle, which is sizzled until crispy in the fryer from the Schottenhamelfesthalle in less than a minute. The Nockherberg is the go to place for Starkbierfest so they can certainly handle a mini Oktoberfest celebration. Address & Info: Hochstrasse 77, 81541 Munich www.paulaner-nockherberg.com Tel. 089 459 91 30  info@nockherberg.com Palatinate Residenz Weinstube With its majestic vaults and high four-pillar hall, the Palatinate Residenz Weinstube of the Landesverband der Pfälzer in Bayern eV eV welcomes its guests with a royal ambience. This restaurant has been around for more than 60 years and is well known for its affordable and excellent wines. Address & Info: Residenzstrasse 1, 80333 Munich www.pfaelzerweinstube.de Tel. 089 22 56 28 info@pfaelzerweinstube.de Photo: Anette Göttlicher Ratskeller and Franconian-Badische Weinstube A single visit is not enough to discover all the aspects of the Ratskeller on Marienplatz. The terrace in the grand courtyard is particularly pleasant when the weather is nice. Löwenbräu can be drunk from the wooden barrel here while you listen to live music. Address & Info: Marienplatz 8, 80331 Munich www.ratskeller.com Tel. 089 219 98 90 info@ratskeller.com Café Rischart on Marienplatz Both here and at Café Kaiserschmarrn on Viktualienmarkt, sweet sins are the center of attention. Anyone who likes sweets is definitely in the land of milk and honey here. A local institution in Munich. Address & Info: Marienplatz 18, 80331 Munich www.rischart.de Tel. 089 231 70 03 20 info@rischart.de Sappralott Located in the heart of Neuhausen, on the corner of Donnersberger Strasse and Hirschbergstrasse, Sappralott has become a landmark for local residents: friendly hospitality, delicious food, and cool drinks.  Address & Info: Donnersbergerstrasse 37, 80634 Munich www.sappralott.de Tel. 089 16 47 25 mail@sappralott.de Schneider Bräuhaus Every day, friends, business people, tourists, students, and Munich residents of long-standing meet at the Schneider Bräuhaus - the cradle of the legendary Schneider Weisse. The landlord, Otmar Mutzenbach, makes delicious Bavarian delicacies. Address & Info: Tal 7, 80331 Munich www.schneider-brauhaus.de Tel. 089 290 13 80 info@weisses-brauhaus.de Schnitzelwirt im Spatenhof The name says it all. Schnitzelwirt Christian Winklhofer offers the most popular local cuisine in his restaurant in the Spatenhof. There are many different types of schnitzel: turkey schnitzel in sesame breading, corn flakes breading, and hunter schnitzel with mushroom cream sauce. The culinary range is enormous. Address & Info: Neuhauser Strasse 39, 80331 Munich www.schnitzelwirt.de Tel. 089 26 40 10 mail@schnitzelwirt.de Schuhbecks Orlando At the Orlandohaus am Platzl, people have been eating and drinking and gossiping for more than a hundred years. Since 2007, Alfons Schuhbeck, one of the most famous chefs in Bavaria, has continued the tradition of the Orlando at his dining establishment. In Schuhbeck's Orlando, you can still appreciate the luxurious ceiling arches, opulent chandeliers, marble floors, and amusing terrace of the restaurant and coffee house culture of yesteryear. Address & Info: Platzl 4, 80331 Munich www.schuhbeck.de Tel. 089 216 69 03 30 info@schuhbeck.de Schweizer Hof In the Munich district of Pasing, in the immediate vicinity of Pasing Marienplatz, there is a casual restaurant for the whole family. You will find a wide selection of Munich specialties and delicious drinks. Address & Info: Planegger Strasse 14, 81241 Munich www.schweizer-hof.net Tel. 089 88 18 40 info@schweizer-hof.net Sechzgeralm On Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

Visiting Vienna

Austria's capital, Vienna, is located in Central Europe. This ancient fortress city is located on the Danube River on the eastern edge of the Alps. An artistic revolution and cultural revolution were born in this glittering city 100 years ago. Vienna's place as one of the world's great cities was forever cemented by this revolution. Free thinking flourished in its cafes and new ideas in music and philosophy became part of its cobblestones. Vienna welcomes visitors with a dynamic art scene, set among historic streets where Strauss' waltzes reverberate. There they drink coffee and enjoy some of the world's most magnificent artworks where some of the world's greatest thinkers, like Einstein and Freud, spent time. Vienna has an efficient public transport system, but the best way to really enjoy it is to walk slowly among the city streets. You can explore the city by following the Ringstraße, a wide boulevard that winds its way through the downtown area, surrounded by palaces, galleries, and museums. Vienna's most famous attractions are within "the ring", and Stephansplatz is right in the middle of it. In one of the nearby coffee houses, order a strong coffee with cream. It has been said that coffee shops are the very essence of Viennese culture; they are for consumption where time, space, and nothing else is sought after. " Famous works were written and important issues debated over these marble tables for generations. Visit the Demel Bakery, the original confectioners of the Austrian Royal Family. Get a sachertorte - a traditional chocolate cake - and relax while you surf the internet. There is more to Vienna's attention to detail than its master cake makers. St Stephen's Cathedral is a visual feast of intricate interiors and mosaic roof tiles. From the steeple, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Known as the City of Music, Vienna was home to many of the world's greatest composers, including Beethoven and Strauss. Experience the world's greatest opera house, the Vienna State Opera. Explore the backstage area of the building and discover how it has held the attention of opera and ballet lovers since the 19th century. Further along, the ring is the Hofburg Imperial Palace. It was home to the Hapsburg dynasty who ruled the region for centuries. Currently, it is the official residence of the Austrian President. The palace is also home to the Austrian National Library, where you can view ancient manuscripts and early editions of some great works. Experience the fragrance of hundreds of roses in the Volksgarten, or people's garden, outside the Palace. In the early 1900s, Vienna attracted some of the world's greatest painters. Their work initially shocked Vienna's society, but they soon gained an enthusiastic following and wealthy patrons. See Gustav Klimt's most famous work, The Kiss, at the Belvedere. The Museum of Art History offers good views of European masterworks such as those of Raphael, Rubens, and Bruegel. Vienna also attracted a young Adolf Hitler who tried to join the painting ranks here but failed. How the world could have been different if he had succeeded as an artist... Explore the Albertina for works by Matisse, Picasso, and Monet. Explore mother nature's masterpieces at the nearby Museum of Natural History, which houses more than 30 million specimens and artifacts. The museum quarter was once the Imperial stables.  In this cultural precinct where modern art installations are regularly displayed, you can relax with a drink or just watch the people go by. Discover the Schönbrunn Palace that is just southwest of Vienna's city center if you venture further afield. Almost as if the Emperor is about to step out onto the grounds of this 1,400-room palace that used to be the summer residence of the Hapsburg family. Many vineyards lie within the city boundaries where you can enjoy traditional Vienna dishes like Wiener Schnitzel matched with local wines. Vienna and Austria in general has a very strong beer culture, with your average Austrian consuming just over 100 litres (176 pints) of the stuff each year. While not as well known as Germany, Czech or Belgium for their beer culture Austria isn’t that far behind. In terms of a local beer, Ottakringer is the biggest, oldest, and most popular brewery in Vienna. Ottakringer has been in the 16th district, Vienna's working-class district, since 1837 and makes an excellent Helles.  For me though, the place I head to is Ammutsøn Craft Beer Dive. Located between Mariahilferstrasse and the Apollo Kino, the local craft beer bar is probably the most independent in town. Through twelve taps, you can find unusual, often rare and hard-to-find creative beers from all over Central Europe, much of which is self-imported. The owner himself drives to Belgium and other places to bring in beers like Cantillon that are not available anywhere else in the city. It is therefore very justified to use the motto "Proud To Be Independent"! Visit the final resting place of some of Vienna's most famous residents before leaving the city's outskirts. Vienna would not be complete without a trip to the historic Wiener Prater. Ride a wooden gondola on the 19th-century Riesenrad and marvel at the timeless views over the city. Explore St Charles Church, one of the city's most beautiful buildings, as the sun sets. Vienna at night is nothing short of stunning. Then, enjoy a show at the Burgtheater or an open-air performance in one of the squares after dining in one of the traditional restaurants. Vienna is a truly inspiring city. You can walk in the footsteps of some of history's greatest minds, explore monumental palaces and cathedrals, and look at priceless artworks in this city. Pull up a chair, order a coffee and sachertorte, and let Vienna's most lyrical of cities serenade you. .   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

10 Great Places To Visit in Germany 

10 Great Places To Visit in Germany      While Germany is a beautiful, diverse country with an impressive culture and plenty of travel opportunities, it rarely tops travelers' lists unless they are planning a trip to Oktoberfest or a Rhine River cruise. I don't know why and how this is happening, but I do know that deep forests, fairy-tale castles, and picturesque towns are not to be missed. Aside from all the excellent beer, the most beautiful Christmas Markets, and plenty of activities in Germany, you'll soon wonder why you've never visited the country sooner. Although the list could have two or three times larger. There is no doubt that these destinations are some of the most beautiful in Germany, thanks to their splendid architecture and undeniable charm. 1. Berlin Berlin has certainly changed the most in the last 20 years and is certainly one of the most interesting cities in Europe. In the past few decades, it has emerged as Europe's capital of cool with an eclectic mix of fashion, music, and design. With its pulsating nightlife, more than 170 world-class museums, galleries, and philharmonics, and stately relics that still tell the story of its turbulent past, Berlin is a cultural city always on the move. The craft beer scene is surprisingly strong for Germany. Brewdog took over the American-owned Stone Brewery and is worth a trek to. In the city be sure and try a Berline Weiss mixed with either Raspberry or Woodruff syrup. Make the most of your time in Berlin with a visit to Museum Island on the Spree River and to the fantastic East Side Gallery in which paintings by artists from around the world are displayed on the Berlin Wall. Besides that, you can go shopping at Kurfürstendamm, the city's most famous avenue; get a taste of the Berlinese coffee culture in the Mitte (the historical heart of Berlin), and experience the city's incredible nightlife in Friedrichshain. You won't want to miss the city's many Christmas markets if you plan to vacation in winter. The selection is impressive, and they all sell high-quality products. No matter what your style is, whatever your interests are, you'll find it in the city! From traditional to alternative, from British-inspired to Scandinavian-inspired, to environmentally-friendly and designer-focused, there's something for everyone in the city! 2. Cologne A world-renowned cathedral, a vibrant arts scene, and some of the funkiest locals make Cologne a wonderful European city break, whether you're seeking art, culture, or thermal spas. Germany's fourth-largest city is one of its most libertine destinations, along with Berlin. Cologne's most beautiful sights include its UNESCO-listed cathedral (Kölner Dom); the Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its love locks; the Altstadt (Old Town) with its lovely landmarks and historic buildings; and the fashionable Agnesviertel and the Belgian Quarter. While visiting Cologne be sure and drink some wonderful Kölsch beer. My favorite beer-drinking spots are Fruh (across from the Dom) and Peters Kolsch. Kölsch is part of the very fabric of Cologn, just as Alt beer is to Dusseldorf or Rauch Beer is to Bamberg. It is an element of the city’s cultural heritage as important as the annual Carnival. Don't miss the Cologne Carnival if you're in Cologne in November. The festival is widely regarded as one of the best in Europe, if not the world. The city along like Berlin was extensively bombed out in World War II but they have done an outstanding job with the rebuild. 3. The Romantic Road There is no better way to experience german culture, picturesque scenery, and a medieval atmosphere than along the Romantic Road. Travelers get to see some of Bavaria's most picturesque attractions along this route between Würzburg and Füssen including the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, the baroque city of Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Germany's best-preserved medieval town, and the picturesque Pfaffenwinkel region, with its quaint villages and pilgrimage churches. Even though the route is quite touristy and can get busy during the summer months, it offers a truly authentic experience of Germany, one that is full of local hospitality and rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. 4. Hamburg The city of Hamburg has it all - historical architecture, striking futuristic buildings, and some of Europe's best nightlife. The country's second-largest city boasts an abundance of parks and green spaces, a historic center filled with treasures, and more bridges than any other. Along the riverbank are fine dining restaurants, museums filled with world-class art, and the Town Hall, a masterpiece of neo-renaissance architecture. For those with more contemporary tastes, the HafenCity district is one of Europe's most ambitious inner-city developments. Along the Hamburg waterfront, the area is home to towering skyscrapers, elegant glass facades, and airy promenades, as well as a shimmering concert hall (Elbphilharmonie) designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. On the other hand, the UNESCO-awarded Speicherstadt is the largest warehouse district on earth, with a unique ensemble of Neo-Gothic brick buildings with oak pilings and waterways. If sex is your thing, Hamburg has a Red Light area that rivels the more famous Amsterdam one. 5. Dresden The capital of Saxony, Dresden, is a vibrant city that is one of the most celebrated cultural cities in Germany. There are a number of architectural treasures in Dresden, including the Zwinger Palace - one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture, the impressive Brühl's Terrace, and the Dresden Frauenkirche, a Lutheran church that dominates the skyline. Dresden's charm lies not only in its scenic location on the Elbe River, but also in its cozy neighborhoods and magnificent green spaces. Dresden is full of gorgeous spots waiting to be discovered, such as the charming Baroque Quarter - full of interesting shops and a breathtaking array of baroque architecture; the lively and fashionable Neustadt; and the delightful Großer Garten - Dresden's most delightful park. World War II buffs know the city for the infamous firebombing of the city. These days though history buffs can make easy day trips to two famous World War II P.O.W. camps. Colditz Castle was one of the toughest camps to escape from and has a great tour. You can get there via train. If you rent a car I highly recommend going to Poland to go to Zagan. Here you will find Luft Stalag III, known for two escape plots by Allied POWs, one in 1943 that became the basis of a fictionalized film, The Wooden Horse, based on a book by escapee Eric Williams. The second breakout—the so-called Great Escape—of March 1944. A heavily fictionalized version of the escape was depicted in the film The Great Escape, which was based on a book by former prisoner Paul Brickhill. I cannot tell you how many times I have read those books or watched the movie. 6. Munich Munich is the capital city of Bavaria and one of the most beautiful and liveable cities in Germany. It is known primarily for the world-famous Oktoberfest, but its appeal reaches far beyond the local beer culture. As you travel through the "cosmopolitan city with a big heart", you will find magnificent architecture, castles, museums, and beautiful parks, but also an exuberant atmosphere brimming with creativity. There is no shortage of sightseeing, fine dining, shopping, and entertainment in Munich. Popular Munich attractions include the Marienplatz - Munich's beating heart; the Deutsches Museum (German Museum), often regarded as the world's largest technological museum; there is also the legendary Hofbrauhaus brewery and the stunning Englischer Garten (English Garden). You can actually see surfers in the Englischer Garten which is a sight to behold. A couple of my favorite things to do when people are visiting is to take them to the BMW museum or to the nearby Olympic Park with its wonderful buildings. 7. Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany Garmisch is a ski town in Bavaria in southern Germany which borders Austria. Nearby is Germany's highest mountain, Zugspitze, at 2,962 metres (9,718 ft) above sea level. A number of Nordic and alpine Ski World Cup races are held here, often on the Kandahar Track outside of the town. As an integral part of the Four Hills Tournament (Vierschanzen-Tournee), a ski jumping contest is traditionally held in Garmisch-Partenkirchen on New Year's Day. Garmisch-Partenkirchen epitomizes Bavarian culture. Walking around town you see locals wearing lederhosen and dirndl. Nature is the main highlight here. The area is great for hiking and biking and the Partnach Gorge. Partnach Gorge's introduction to massive rock faces is a surreal experience that is hard to compare with anything else. The gorge below you is filled with water that rushes through. It is wild and boisterous. It is difficult to imagine how much water has hollowed out the mountain over the centuries. The trail offers new and breathtaking perspectives as you stroll past the impressive rock faces. Read the full Garmisch-Partenkirchen review here: https://europeantravel.blog/garmisch-partenkirchen-bavarian-wonderland/ 8. The Mosel Valley One of Germany's most breathtaking sights, the Mosel Valley is lined with terraced vineyards, half-timbered medieval villages, and hilltop fairytale castles. A 195-kilometer long tributary of the Rhine flows between Trier and Koblenz, marking one of the top winemaking regions in Germany. This is a wonderful destination for those looking to get away from their hectic lives, experience German culture, and indulge in wine tasting. Among the highlights is the wonderful Roman city of Trier; Cochem, with its majestic castle and picturesque riverfront promenade; the sleepy village of Beilstein; and the elegant Art Nouveau town of Traben-Trarbach. Late summer/early fall is a great time to visit Germany's idyllic Mosel Valley when the villages come to life with vibrant harvest and wine festivals featuring live music, street parades, and local produce. 9. Görlitz As one of Germany's most beautiful cities, Görlitz appeals to visitors with its serene cobblestone alleys, beauty-filled squares, and a variety of architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance to Baroque. It's located in Saxony, near the border with Poland, and you can walk right to its Polish twin city, Zgorzelec, if you cross the Neisse river via the pedestrian bridge. Around 4,000 listed buildings adorn the immaculate Old Town, along with an array of cafés. Görlitz's historical sites have been featured in movies like Inglourious Basterds, The Book Thief, and The Reader. 10. Bamberg, Germany The picturesque Bavarian town of Bamberg is often known as the Rome of Franconia because of its seven hills. There are winding cobblestone streets, spectacular mansions, and a variety of preserved half-timber buildings in its UNESCO-protected Altstadt, and there is an intense beer culture. Bamberg is famous for its Rauch Beer which is a smoked beer. It is hard to really choose my favorite place to drink there but  Fassla, Spezial and Mahr’s are always great spots.  The Wilde Rose Keller has everything you would expect from a classic beer garden. The atmosphere is tranquil and shady like entering the woods.  The pebbles crunch beneath your feet, old keg fillers and full casks are strewn along the edge, and potted plants and ferns mark out the more intimate spaces among the majestic trees. There is enough room on its grounds to seat 1500 people and still have room left over for a kids' playground. In case of inclement weather, an ornate wooden loggia provides shelter. If you look closely at the intricate woodwork, you'll notice the six-pointed brewers' star carved at regular intervals in the corners of the lattices. The local Weyermann Maltery has a great tour and produces some great beers and spirits in their pilot plants. It was also used as the outdoor setting as the Wonka candy factory in the original Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory movie. There are brightly painted fishermen's houses along the Regnitz river, the city hall stands on an island, and its ancient 11th-century cathedral is one of the most important in Germany.   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

Visiting Regensburg And Its Relatively Unknown Beer Scene

REGENSBURG, EASTERN BAVARIA’S OFF THE RADAR GEM   Located just 90 minutes by train from Munich, Regensburg is an eminently walkable city where you'll never be far from a brewery, beer garden, or Bierkeller. In addition, for beer lovers, it is an ideal base for visiting Kloster Weltenburg and Schneider Weisse in Kelheim as well as exploring the woodlands cradling the Zoigl tradition of the Oberpfalz.  The city of Regensburg is located in eastern Bavaria at the confluence of the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers. A river cruise is a popular activity in Regensburg. Visitors to this historic city are also attracted by its wonderful cathedral, its Roman remains, excellent shopping, and its strategic location in close proximity to other top tourist attractions in south Germany. It is the capital of the Upper Palatinate subregion of the state in the south of Germany. Regensburg is the fourth-largest city in Bavaria after Munich, Nuremberg, and Augsburg. Founded as an imperial Roman river fort, the city became the political, economic, and cultural capital of its region; it is still known in the Romance languages by a cognate of its Latin name of "Ratisbona" (the version "Ratisbon" was long current in English). It later housed the Perpetual Diet of Regensburg under the rule of the Holy Roman Empire. UNESCO has designated the medieval city center as a World Heritage Site. While it is one of the top sights and travel attractions in Germany, most Americans are unaware of it. Regensburg was bombed by the Allies during World War II on August 17, 1943, during the Schweinfurt-Regensburg mission, and on February 5, 1945, during the Oil Campaign. Although both targets were badly damaged, Regensburg itself suffered little damage from the Allied strategic bombing campaign, and the nearly intact medieval city center was barely touched. The city's most significant loss is that of the Romanesque church of Obermünster, which was destroyed during a March 1945 air raid (the belfry survived).  Regensburg is located at the intersection of the Bavarian Forest, the fertile flatlands of the Danube, and the rolling hills of the Franconian Jura. With its twin spires, the Cathedral of St. Peter dominates the skyline of this city crisscrossed by cobbled streets, and the Stone Bridge spanning the Danube is a testament to the city's once vital role as a commercial center. The Stone Bridge was a marvel of medieval engineering that opened up major international trade routes between northern Europe and Venice between 1135 and 1146. The long history of Regensburg reflects more than two thousand years of political, economic, and religious developments from Roman Antiquity through the Middle Ages. In recognition of its role as a trade center, Regensburg was named Free Imperial City in 1245. It held the title of the capital of Bavaria until the thirteenth century. Its importance declined after the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806 but it retained its regional significance as a bishopric and capital of the Oberpfalz. Regensburg is currently home to regional offices of companies like Siemens, and it has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 2006.   The Best Attractions in Regensburg Regensburg Cathedral   In Regensburg's medieval Old Town center (Alte Stadt) stands the Domplatz, the Cathedral Square, near the famous Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke). This has been the hub of the city for centuries, home to the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Peter (Dom St. Peter). Known as Regensburg Cathedral (Regensburger Dom), this impressively preserved church is notable for its two 105-meter-high spires. Combined with the historic west front built between 1395-1440, these features have led to its being labeled as the finest Gothic church in all of Bavaria. In addition to its spacious interior, its most notable features are its 13th- and 14th-century stained glass and the Annunciation figures on the two western piers of the crossing. Along with the lovely 14th-century cloister is the Romanesque All Saints Chapel with its wonderful wall paintings, and the north side houses St. Stephen's Chapel, which dates back to 800 AD. The Cathedral is renowned for its boys' choir, the Domspatzen, and for its hanging organ, the largest of its kind in the world. The opportunity to hear music from either source is a highlight of any visit. The site also offers guided tours and visitors are invited to attend mass. Also of note is the Cathedral Treasury housing textiles and gold objects from the 11th to the 20th century. The Old Stone Bridge  You can see Regensburg best from the 310-meter-long Old Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke). The impressive 12th-century bridge has spanned the Danube for 900 years and is considered one of the wonders of medieval engineering. The oldest of its kind in Europe, the bridge is now used only for pedestrian traffic and offers great views of the Danube and the many boats that pass below. A visit to the Bridge Tower Museum is highly recommended. This fascinating museum is arguably the city's smallest and is located in Brückturm, the last remaining tower of the bridge. There are artifacts and documents related to the construction of the bridge, as well as a 17th-century tower clock that has been keeping time continuously since 1652. At the top of the tower, you will be able to see the city and bridge. Explore Porta Praetoria, the oldest tower in the town, built by the Romans in AD 179 and still connected to a portion of the old town walls. Near the bridge are two other noteworthy buildings: the Sausage Kitchen (Wurstkuch), which has been selling its delectable treats since the 12th century; and the historic Salt Warehouse (Salzstadel) built in 1620, which is fully restored and used for community events.   Regensburg And Beer   Regensburg's UNESCO world heritage status isn't its only claim to fame. A beer town with a long and illustrious history, Regensburg is a solid beer town. According to some scholars, the Romans built a brewery here when they founded Regensburg as Ratisbon in the second century CE. There has been beer in Regensburg's veins at least since the Spitalbrauerei was established in thirteenth century. Regensburg is not a beer pilgrimage site like Munich or Bamberg, but it is home to nearly half a dozen breweries, a Bierkeller, and a bratwurst house adjacent to the Stone Bridge, the Wurstlkuchl. Regensburg, however, is best known for its riverside beer gardens. Both the Spitalbrauerei and the Alte Linde beer gardens offer stunning views of the cathedral, the Stone Bridge, and the medieval Altstadt - some of the best in Germany. Germany's richest and last feudal aristocratic family, Thurn und Taxis, also resides in Regensburg. Their fortune was made as monopolistic postmasters with a private postal system spanning Central Europe until 1867. Additionally, they brewed beer.   THE BEER SCENE IN REGENSBURG   SPITALBRAUEREI Picture a bustling scene on the Stone Bridge just beyond the beer garden as merchants transport their wares across in ancient times. Getting goods to the docks in Regensburg is a long haul from the Alps and the northernmost part of the Danube. Other visitors arrive by boat from farther afield, from as far downriver as Vienna. It is getting close to noon. Both merchants and dock workers make their way to the Spitalbrauerei at the northern end of the Steinerne Brücke to quench their thirst and satiate their hunger. Later in the evening, some return to the party with a view of the city across the river. In the heart of the Stadtamhof district with its colorful four-story houses, the Spitalbrauerei is located on the grounds of the St. Katharine Hospital and serves beer with a view and has done so for 800 years. It is the last remaining Central European hospital brewery founded in the Middle Ages, where beer was served to the weak, the sick, and the elderly. St. Katharine Hospital was founded by Bishop Konrad IV in 1226, and the founding documents included a provision for serving beer as a nightcap to hospital patients and benefices. Initially, the monks brewed only enough beer to meet the brewery's charter. After the Thirty Years’ War, they and the secular brewers who had joined them began selling beer to fund their charitable activities. When you eat or drink here, you're supporting the efforts of all five institutions under the Katharinenspital umbrella: the parish church, the St. Katherine pensioners' home, a forest, an archive, and, of course, the brewery with its beer garden. So feel free to make a charitable donation. Spitalbrauerei's Helles offers a hint of residual malt sweetness balanced by a smooth bitterness. Its mild spicy hop flavor and floral geraniol notes are complimented by a hint of fresh-sliced country bread and a hint of sulfur minerality - perfect for a warm day in the beer garden. With its clove, allspice, custard, and caramel flavors balanced by a subdued acidity, Weizen is a well-spiced affair. The Pils is less impressive - soft and a touch buttery, and lacking that distinctive crispness. The Spitalbrauerei's generous portions will not leave you hungry. It comes with three luscious dollops of cheese spread accompanied by a soft, chewy pretzel, in addition to the creamy Matjes (pickled herring) that the pescatarians will enjoy.   BRAUEREI BISCHOFSHOF There is nothing like the tranquility of Bischofhof's courtyard garden beneath Regensburg's cathedral. Several large chestnut trees provide shade from the sun, as do vine-covered trellises and colorful flowers surrounding the cobblestone terrace. Order a beer and gaze up at the cathedral's ornate Gothic towers while you drink. I recommend the Hefeweizen Hell, a Weissbier with a citric zing. Though the caramelized lemon zest doesn't quite mesh with the complex herbal spice ensemble of clove, mint, and cinnamon, the beer is unique and worth a try, especially if you enjoy brighter wheat beers. Zoigl by Bischofhof is a hazy amber Kellerbier that's not a "true" Zoiglbier. However, Bischofhof's interpretation offers hints of malted milk, biscuits, as well as herbal hops sprinkled with pepper. Despite its malty flavor and caramel notes, this beer contains a peppery hop bitterness as well as a faintly piquant effervescence.   KNEITINGER/ALTE LINDE Brewery Kneitinger has earned a loyal local following both through its charitable work and its beer - in particular, its Bock. As well as the goats. You're wondering about goats, aren't you? In October, Kneitinger taps its beer after parading a ceremonial cask through town on a cart drawn by goats. Goats and Bock go together. In the States you are probably familiar with Ayinger Celebrator with the little plastic goat hung around the bottle neck. Kneitinger beer can also be enjoyed at Arnulfsplatz's Mutterhaus, although the surroundings at the Alte Linde beer garden (a Kneitinger outlet) are better on a sunny day. It's as if the spires, medieval tower gates, and stone bridge were painted on a canvas backdrop, framed by tree branches arching overhead. The view from this beer garden is among the best in Central Europe. With chocolate notes of roasted cocoa, Kneitinger's Dunkel Export is a perfect drink to unwind as the Danube flows by. Although it's a bit of a wallflower, the Helles is clean and well-brewed.    WURSTKUCHL   Looking for authentic local specialties? That's right. That's exactly what "Wurst & Bier" is all about! Enjoy sausages from their own production as well as a selection of beer from the Regensburg breweries in a rustic, comfortable atmosphere near the Danube. This small building abutting the city wall served as an office during the construction of the Stone Bridge. Over time, it became an inn where masons working on the cathedral stayed, sailors traveling through Regensburg, and dock workers loading and unloading the barges that transported commerce through the Holy Roman Empire. Only 28 guests can sit in the tavern today. Beyond bratwurst, the food selection is limited, but you're here for the brats. The beer on the menu comes from the Familienbrauerei Jacob in Bodenwöhr, a village deep in the woods of the Oberpfalz which you are unlikely to visit on your own.   THURN UND TAXIS   Thurn und Taxis once owned two renowned breweries and marketed one of the last Roggenbier (rye beer) in Germany, a beer that caught the eye of the late British beer writer Michael Jackson. He wrote the following in 1998: “The oddly-named royal family Thurn und Taxis for many years owned a well-known brewery in Regensburg, Bavaria, and a smaller one not far away in Schierling. The latter, which had its origins in a thirteenth-century convent, became known in the late 1980s for a beer made with a blend of 60 percent rye and wheat. This brew intended more as a distinctive variation on a dark wheat beer with a bittersweet rye character. In the late 1990s, the Thurn und Taxis brewing interests were acquired by Paulaner of Munich.” However, the story doesn't end there. Let's take a look back at the history of this "oddly named" family. When Emperor Maximilian assigned him the task of establishing the first European postal system in the fifteenth century, Franz von Taxis (1459–1517) set his family on an illustrious path. Thurn und Taxis dynasty became extremely wealthy off of their postal monopoly after the arrangement benefited both parties. Thurn und Taxis lost their postal monopoly when Regensburg became part of the Kingdom of Bavaria. As compensation, King Max I Joseph (the same Max that gave rise to beer gardens) ceded some lands of the former Benedictine monastery of St. Emmeram in Regensburg to Prince Karl Alexander von Thurn und Taxis in 1812. As part of the castle's acquisition, the family also acquired the monastery brewery of St. Emmeram, one of many the family acquired over time. We now move into the 1990s, a decade when the Thurn und Taxis' extravagant spending caught up with them. When the highly renowned Prince Johannes Baptista de Jesus Maria Louis Miguel Friedrich Bonifaxius Lamoral, the 11th Prince von Thurn und Taxis, Prince zu Buchenau and Krotoszyn, Duke zu Wörth und Donaustauf died, his widow Princess Gloria discovered a mountain of debt. The breweries, as well as other family possessions, were sold off. Schierlinger was acquired by Kuchelbauer in 1996 and the Regensburg brewery and the Thurn und Taxis label by Paulaner in 1997. Thurn und Taxis still has its headquarters in Regensburg, but it no longer has any association with the Thurn und Taxis royal dynasty, or with Brauhaus am Schloss, the tavern on the grounds of the Thurn and Taxis family castle. What about that Roggenbier? Paulaner brewed Roggenbier under its own name for a brief period in the 2000s, ceasing production entirely in the 2010s. The fact that Roggenbier has all but disappeared at a time when craft brewers strive to revive historical styles is rather perplexing. Perhaps it's time to convince German brewers to revive the style.     Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

A Visit To Brugge And The Brugge Beer Scene

VISITING BRUGGE AKA BRUGES    Bruges (Brugge or Bruge to the Belgians) is Belgium's crown jewel. Despite its small size, the city is filled with great restaurants, fascinating attractions, a variety of fun activities, and more charm and allure than many other popular European cities. During prehistory, Bruges was a coastal settlement. Bronze Age and Iron Age settlements are unrelated to medieval city development. To protect the coastline against pirates, the first fortifications were built near Bruges in the first century BC after Julius Caesar conquered the Menapii. During the 4th century, the Franks successfully expelled the Gallo-Romans from the whole region, which was referred to as Pagus Flandrensis. Count Baldwin I of Flanders reinforced the Roman fortifications after Viking incursions of the ninth century restored trade with England and Scandinavia. Early medieval settlements were probably located on Burgh terrain in the 9th and 10th centuries, with a fortified settlement and a church. Even though the city may be small, it has plenty of sights and attractions in and around the Old Town. This city is rated among the most romantic places in Europe for a reason! Regardless of whether you travel with a partner or not, this city is a great place to visit with family, friends, or even on your own. This guide aims to highlight a variety of things to do in Bruges, including both the main attractions and some of my favorite beer places.   Things to do in Brugge   The Belfry Tower A 15th-century bell tower stands at the heart of Bruges' city center, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Why go? It is the city's unmissable attraction - an architectural equivalent to the Eiffel Tower or the Empire State Building. The bell tower's incredible ensemble of bells chimes out their particular tunes every hour. Only a limited number of people can climb the belfry tower at one time, so lines can get pretty long.  Take a boat tour down the canals. The city of Bruges is a city of canals, often referred to as 'The Venice of the North'. As Bruges is crisscrossed by so many waterways, a boat tour is one of the most popular things to do. Canal tours depart from Huidenvettersplein and take approximately 30 minutes. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood. It's a bit unusual, but the main attraction at the Basilica of the Holy Blood is, well, Holy Blood itself. The church contains a vial made of rock crystal filled with blood that was brought to the city by Thierry of Alsace after the Second Crusade in the 12th century. This vial is believed to contain the blood of Jesus Christ and it’s brought out to be worshipped by believers every day. BELGIAN BEER PLACES   The alter ego of Brussels is Bruges. Canals, quiet lanes, and Flemish architecture provide a stark contrast to the bustle of Brussels. In terms of beer, the two cities are equal. Some of Bruges' beer cafes are world-class, such as the ethereal Vlissinghe, the great beer cellar at Le Trappiste, and the elegant De Garre.  ’T BRUGS BEERTJE The most famous of these beer cafes is ’t Brugs Beertje, “The Little Bear of Bruges.” This cozy brown cafe is legendary for its hundreds of Belgian beers, and it is filled with beer travelers and locals alike. You'll go to this place for the beer, but you'll stay for the atmosphere. There will be many others like you. Throughout the afternoon and evening, patrons of all ages gather around the front windows to talk in a convivial atmosphere. In case you can't find a seat there, try the dimly lit back room with its soothing dark wood fittings and patterned walls covered with beer placards and street signs. When entering Beertje, one of the first things you'll notice is the myriad glasses hanging above the bar like stalactites, a clear sign that the place takes its beer presentation seriously. The list of beer when the "Little Bear" opened in 1983 was only a hundred strong but has now grown to include nearly three hundred beers - one of Belgium's most well-rounded lists. You'll find everything from Belgian classics to inventive brewers who've taken a page out of the craft beer playbook.  Those who are unable to travel to other parts of Belgium need not worry. The beer menu is broken into provinces and then style at the back. You can ask the knowledgeable staff for help if you're having trouble choosing the perfect beer. The original owner is no longer around and she is the one responsible for building the bar's sterling reputation. However, the new owners, two young guys have kept the spirit alive with their passion for great beer. Le Trappiste   I have to admit I am biased here. My good friend Regnier De Muynck has been a fixture on the Belgian beer scene in Brugge and in Brussels for many years now. He still leads Americans and others on beer tours around “The Belgium Beer Country.” I have hired him multiple times for brewery tours. Unlike the USA not all breweries are open for tours, especially the Trappist ones in Belgium and with Regnier I have been able to visit every Trappist brewery in Belgium. Located only 300 meters from Bruges' main market square, Le Trappiste is a specialist beer bar in an 800-year-old medieval cellar. 25 beers on tap, guest brews, 80 regular beers in bottles, and 20 or so on the guest board. There is an international beer list with beers from Belgium, the Netherlands, UK, Denmark, Germany, the USA, and Italy. If you were to define "hidden gem", this is it. This underground bar has a history dating back hundreds of years, where samplers are available for about €15.00. Each sampler includes five different beers.   De Halve Maan Bruges' Half Moon Brewery is a beer lover's dream. It is a long-established brand that is known for its quality beers. Daily tours take place between 11 am and 4 pm, and they last 45 minutes. The tour includes a tasting of a Brugse Zot Blond, because what's a brewery tour without beer?   Vliegende Located 10 km southeast of Bruges, Vliegende Paard (Flying Horse) has become a hot spot with its beers produced under the Préaris label since 2013. If you happen to find something you like, take the plunge. They change their experimental lineup all the time. I had the Smokey Li on my last trip to Beertje, an amber-orange beer brewed with Lapsong Suchong tea. A scotch-like wood smoke underlies this intriguing beer, which combines cherry-wood flavors with caramel malt, fruitiness on the palate, and an Islay accent at the end. The Cuvée Soeur'ise Oak-Aged Tripel Kriek is another good choice. This watermelon-colored beer, brewed by Brouwerij De Leite (founded 2008) in Ruddervoorde, about 15 km south of Bruges, was a revelation. Cuvée Soeur'ise is characterized by subtle Brett notes and a beguiling vanilla-oak note on the nose, with rich flavors of tart cherry and hay, with a nuttiness that stays with you on the palate.   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

How To Travel Through Europe On A Budget

Travel Through Europe On A Budget   Do you think you'd like to travel across Europe? Great! However, the biggest question on everyone's mind is "How much does it cost to travel through Europe?".” If you can, you should avoid traveling during the summer. This is when the prices for flights, hotels, activities, etc. are the highest. When possible, travel in the low season or shoulder season, and the most economical time of year to fly is the first two weeks in January after Christmas. If you can travel during that time, do so. I've found the flights to be unbelievably cheap. There is no doubt that Europe has its own cheap flights within the continent. You will need to use budget airlines if you want to fly from place to place. There are airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Tap to name a few. Traveling across the country can sometimes be done for twenty or thirty dollars, and that is wonderful. I once flew from Charleroi in Belgium to Glasgow in Scotland for $1.00 (plus about $25 in airport fees/taxes). In any case, if I'm going to be in a lot of different countries in one area, I prefer staying on the ground once I get there. In this way, you can usually save money by traveling by bus, train, or hitchhiking. The cheapest option is going to be hitchhiking. If you don't really want to hitchhike, you can also just take the trains, which are reasonably inexpensive too. Check out rail passes. In many places like Germany, you can buy a day pass that covers an entire region. These save even more money if you have travel companions.  A great money-saving option is to take a night train to save on accommodation because you will be sleeping on the train, so you don't have to pay for a hotel or hostel. This is great for long trips such as Brussels to Prague or Berlin to Venice.   Buses are a great option. I often take Flix Bus while traveling in Germany, and once I took it from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Brussels but I wouldn’t do that again, it was simply too long to be on the bus. However, I should point out that buses are often faster than trains which may seem strange but the Munich to Prague bus goes direct as does the Munich to Zurich bus so you don’t have all the stops at different cities like trains do. Buses can also be really cheap, especially in Eastern Europe. So that is a really good way to go.      Where to travel in Europe on the cheap   Let me share with you a few of the budget destinations you can visit, so you can go to Portugal, southern Spain, and Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia, if you do it right and mostly if you stay off the beaten path you go to the cities or to the small towns that aren't the major major tourist attractions you can do most things pretty cheap. Next, you should travel to the right places. The cheapest part of Europe, for the most part, is Eastern Europe. When you go to the other side of the Mediterranean Sea, the other side of Italy - and you go to Croatia, to the east, so this will be Croatia, Albania, Macedonia, and Greece. But it isn't as cheap as the rest of Eastern Europe but it is still pretty cheap. Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Poland, these are all going to be a lot cheaper than France, Italy, Spain, etc.   If you can - and you want to be more adventurous because Eastern Europe is actually quite cool - not many people are aware of it. If you want to save a few bucks, you should travel to some of the countries in Eastern Europe, but besides traveling to the east, if you don't want to do that, the cheaper places are usually southern countries. Spain is more affordable than France, which is more expensive than Switzerland and then Germany,  so going south will be cheaper. The same is true for cities. In Spain and Italy, the cheaper cities are usually in the south. Everything is cheaper in the south than in the north, on a general basis. But my recommendation, first of all, is to travel to Eastern Europe if you can, if not, that head to the south, which also has better weather in the winter.   European Cheap Travel Tips   Trying to stay away from touristy things is the next step if you want to travel on a budget. To have a more authentic experience, try something like Couchsurfing, where you can meet people and stay with people if you want. I have both hosted some great people as well as stayed in some expensive cities for free!!! In the event that you make friends or just discuss something with someone at a bar or beach, do the free things. You do not have to do the expensive tours and the best things are usually those you can do on your own just by walking around the city. Often, you can do things for free or cheap, like concerts, little shows, festivals, etc. Walking tours are available in most countries and most major cities. They usually last around one to three hours and you get a walking tour of all the key parts of the city and you get all the history and you can get. In addition, you can meet people there and it's really enjoyable. You learn a lot about the place you are in. This is something I prefer to do when I first arrive so I can get my bearings and learn a little bit before I go off on my own. Use Google and type in the city you are visiting and ‘walking tour’.   There is a company called Sandeman’s (some cities are temporarily closed due to Covid so check the website for availability). They have city tours and even free bus tours. From Edinburgh, we were able to take a free bus tour of the Scottish Highlands. Usually, these things are free, and you just give a tip at the end, and if you're on a budget, you can give a smaller tip, but try to give them a decent tip if you can, especially if they did a good job. The next thing is pub crawls, yes, free pub crawls. A lot of times if you're staying at hostels they're going to have pub crawl nights, and because the hostels want you to have fun and they want to get good ratings, and so especially for the younger crowd. These hostels will be bringing you out in groups to go on these pub crawls, and surprisingly, a lot of cities offered free pub crawls. Often you get free drinks for the first hour or so of the night, so you get free drinks and free entertainment.   Where to stay in Europe on a budget We'll move on to hostels now. While hostels are reasonably priced in Europe, they're not as cheap as a lot of other places In the world.  Hostelworld, and Hosteling International are two great sites to use and reserve your accommodations. Some Hostels in Germany do have age restrictions however the majority in Europe do not. You should book ahead for these since the best ones will sell out quickly, so try to book a week ahead, maybe at least a few days ahead, or if traveling for an event like Oktoberfest at least 6 months in advance so that the cheapest options are still available to you.  Couchsurfing is a better alternative than booking hostels. Obtaining free lodging through Couchsurfing was the number one way for me to travel Europe on a budget. Often, you can meet local friends and hang out with them, and they can take you to cheaper spots, not the tourist destinations that always raise the prices. Many times they want to show you their culture, their cuisine, and everything else. In addition to saving some money on a bed, my Couchsurfing hosts would often cook for me. Next up, if you don't do Couchsurfing, you can try Airbnb, there's surprisingly, really a lot of good deals on Airbnb, because Airbnb is becoming more popular and there's just so much out there and there's so much competition. People are really bringing their prices down a lot in order to get people to stay there because there are so many other options. Also if you go to a summer destination such as the Algarve in Portugal in the Winter you can find longer-term Airbnb’s for incredible prices. If you want to try something longer, this is another site that I know about called trustedhousesitters and you get free accommodation just for watching their house sitting. Sometimes you even get a bonus and get to watch a pet or two. It is sometimes possible to do this for a month or more, so if you plan to remain in one location for a while, you should look into it.  Read our Hotel Guide here: https://europeantravel.blog/guide-to-hostels-in-europe/   Food   There are deals for food throughout Europe, and it really depends on where you are, but, for instance, in Spain they have tapas. Typically it can be free or it can cost a little bit.    Another thing that's very similar to that is aperitivo in Italy. It is basically what an American would call a happy hour, but it is better than a happy hour because it often involves free food. Usually, it's like an all-you-can-eat buffet with just these tiny plates. You buy a beverage, then stand in line and fill up your plate as you please, and that's how you get a free meal.   Staying in touch   If you're traveling for a longer period of time, don't pay for your phone while you're there - and if you can, get a SIM card instead of paying for an international plan with your phone carrier. Buying a SIM card in any country in Europe is really cheap. Credit and Debit Cards   The next thing is to get the right credit/debit card combo, so you can get a travel credit card that doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees, most major institutions have some sort of travel card with this feature. Most critical since not everyone in Europe takes credit cards is to have a good debit card that doesn’t have any ATM fees or rebates you the fees like a Charles Schwab debit card does.  The debit card is critical if you don’t have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. You need to be careful when taking money out from ATM machines and only go to real bank ATM’s. There are numerous private ATM’s that are all over the place in tourist areas that charge an arm and a leg for withdrawals and have a lousy conversion rate.  Due to Covid, more and more places are now accepting credit cards as well as Google Pay and Apple. Hope this blog helps you out.   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

Is Europe Open For Travel?

The majority of Europe has now opened its doors to American travelers after lifting Europe's travel ban.   The United States was added to the European Union's list of approved countries for entry on June 18, ending a 15-month ban on travel from the United States to Europe due to the coronavirus pandemic. The move allowed EU countries that hadn't lifted restrictions on U.S. travelers to do so - but it doesn't mean they did so uniformly. Different countries still have different requirements (some still require COVID-19 testing, others don't) and some countries still have quarantines if you happen to come from or visit a high-risk country. I am planning on visiting Portugal again in September with a friend from the U.S. Initially we were going to go to Portugal first and then Germany, however with Germany having a 10-day quarantine in place currently for people coming from Portugal we have had to reverse the order of our planned travel, touring around Germany first and then heading to Portugal in case the current restrictions still are in place. Being on this E.U. list also opens up travel options for U.S. travelers who are not vaccinated, not just for those who are. On May 20, EU leaders had already agreed on measures to allow fully vaccinated visitors into the 27-nation bloc. As countries reach certain epidemiological benchmarks (no more than 75 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, for instance), and are placed on the approved countries list, restrictions on nonessential travel can be lifted regardless of vaccination status. The complete list of countries and territories that now have been approved for travel by the European Council is: Albania Australia Hong Kong China (subject to reciprocity) Israel Japan Lebanon Macao New Zealand North Macedonia Rwanda Serbia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Thailand United States of America Are Americans able to travel to all of Europe now? Several European countries had already opened up again to American travelers in the weeks prior to the June 18 announcement, including France, Greece, Iceland, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. There were some countries that required U.S. travelers be vaccinated; however, others, like Portugal, did not require vaccinations but these restrictions are in constant flux. The European Council, in its recommendation, has asked countries to act "coordinatedly" throughout the pandemic. The recommendations are not legally binding, as each European country is free to determine a country's requirements for travelers entering its borders. But now that the United States is on the approved travel list, other EU countries have begun unveiling their plans to welcome back U.S. tourists. Are Americans required to be vaccinated before entering Europe? After the news broke, countries including Austria, Belgium, and Germany opened their doors to U.S. travelers. Others, including France and Spain, also dropped their vaccination requirements for U.S. travelers. I know this is a hotbed subject but I am going to voice my opinion. Get vaccinated!!!  Smallpox and Polio were not cured by herd immunity, they were cured with vaccines. By not getting the vaccine you are playing Russian roulette with your life and possibly the life of other idiots like you that haven’t gotten the vaccine. It is often possible for travelers to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result if they are not vaccinated in both digital or paper form. If you only have paper copies get them scanned and placed on your phone in case you need to pull them up. While the European Union facilitates travel within Europe with the EU Digital COVID Certificate, a digital pass for those who have been vaccinated for COVID-19, tested negative for the virus, or have recovered from it, the document is not yet available to U. S. travelers or Americans such as myself who have their App store set to the U.S. and not a E.U. country. The CDC-issued paper certificate has so far been accepted by all European countries that have asked U.S. travelers for proof of vaccination status. Previously, travelers from the U.S. and other countries that weren't on the list could only enter Europe if they were EU citizens or residents, or if they were traveling for essential reasons such as work, study, or a family emergency-with very few other exceptions. As mentioned above, the European Council's recommendations are non-binding, so European countries can implement entry requirements as they see fit. The rules and restrictions of each individual European country should be checked in advance by travelers from the United States since they vary widely from one country to another and are subject to change. A great resource is the U.S. State Department’s detailed COVID-19 travel information and country-specific advisories, which are updated regularly. You can cross-check these references with each individual country’s foreign affairs office, which normally publishes entry requirements. U.S. travelers should be aware that all international passengers age two and older (including returning citizens and residents) must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days of traveling to the U.S.  Having just flown to and from Portugal and Germany I found it easy to find testing sites. In Bavaria, these tests are free and only take 15 minutes. You only need your i.d. In Portugal, I saw testing sites at the airports. The one in Faro was free but the one at the Lisbon airport charged 30 euros.  Additionally, the CDC has detailed recommendations for travel, both for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.  Travelers should also check all openings and closures across Europe as well as public health measures. All European countries are on different stages of re-opening and edging their way out of lockdowns. The hours of some businesses and services may be restricted, curfews could be in effect, and there could be additional regulations on the ground, including the wearing of masks. I would assume that if you are out in public that you will be required to wear an FFP2 medical mask.  Staying on top of these changes is important, as they can change often. I noticed a lot of people really following the mask guidelines in Portugal when outdoors, while here in Germany people are laxer about it while outside.    Detailed information about American travel restrictions in Europe, organized by country The following is a summary of how some European countries will approach travel for Americans beginning July 1, 2021. This is not an exhaustive list, but it illustrates how we still have different rules and regulations across the continent. Travelers heading to Europe and crossing borders within Europe must remain up to date on the latest laws, regulations, and policies latest COVID-19 related travel restrictions because they are constantly changing. Austria Travel to Austria is now allowed as long as travelers present a CDC-issued vaccination certificate indicating they received their first vaccine dose at least 21 days prior to travel; have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 180 days; or present a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test result procured within 72 or 48 hours of travel, respectively, according to the Austrian government. Belgium Nonessential travel from the U.S. to Belgium has been permitted since June 21, according to the U.S. Embassy in Belgium. If the U.S. is deemed to be a "green" or "orange" country, no additional health documentation is required; if it is a "red" country, a negative PCR test is required. Belgium does not require any tests or vaccine certificates for entry from the United States at the time of publication. In order to enter Belgium, travelers must fill out the Passenger Locator Form 48 hours before arrival. Bulgaria Effective May 19, citizens and residents of the European Union and Schengen nations as well as those from a long list of additional countries, including the United States, can enter Bulgaria if they present a vaccination certificate showing they have received full vaccination (so two doses if two doses are required) at least 2 weeks prior to arrival, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria. In addition, they may enter if they have recovered from COVID-19 within the previous six months or if they have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result obtained within 72 hours of entering Bulgaria or a negative COVID-19 antigen test performed within 48 hours of entry. Croatia Since April 1, anyone can travel to Croatia with a COVID-19 vaccination certificate (the final dose must be administered at least 14 days before arrival); can present a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test no more than 48 hours before arrival (if it’s a rapid test, a second test must be taken 10 days after the initial test if a traveler’s stay in Croatia is longer than 10 days); or were diagnosed with and recovered from COVID-19 no more than 180 days prior to arrival. Children under seven years of age are exempt. The U.S. Embassy in Croatia reminds travelers that travelers who meet the above requirements can only enter Croatia if they provide evidence that they have paid for their Croatia accommodations in advance and in full prior to arrival at the border. Cyprus Effective July 1, Cyprus implemented a color-coded system for COVID-9 travel requirements. At the time of publishing, the United States was classified as orange, which means travelers from the U.S. to Cyprus must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test obtained within 72 hours of departure and complete the online Cyprus Flight Pass form. Czech Republic (Czechia) In the Czech Republic, the United States is considered a low-risk country, so there are no health-related entry requirements for travelers from the United States, according to the Czech government. Denmark Travelers vaccinated against COVID-19 and those who have recovered from COVID-19 are welcome in Denmark without being tested or quarantined. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers must have negative results of COVID-19 PCR tests within 72 hours of boarding and then be retested upon arrival.   Estonia As of June 21, Estonia welcomes all U.S. travelers regardless of vaccination status. Anyone who has been vaccinated or who has recovered from COVID-19 do not need to provide any additional information or submit to any additional testing or quarantine requirements. Unvaccinated travelers must fill out an online health declaration, according to the U.S. Embassy in Estonia. France As of June 18, France included the United States on its “green list” of countries, allowing travelers without vaccinations to enter as long as they submit a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of boarding.  Vaccinated U.S. leisure travelers may enter France without additional public health requirements (such as COVID testing) or quarantine by virtue of being on the green list.  Minors who are unvaccinated but traveling from the U.S. will be able to enter France, but those older than 11 will need a negative test. Germany Germany has now opened its borders to U.S. residents without restriction, regardless of vaccination status, a policy implemented on June 20. U.S. travelers heading to Germany must provide a negative COVID-19 test result, proof of recovery from COVID-19, or proof of vaccination. A PCR test and a rapid antigen test are both acceptable; however, the PCR test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to entering Germany and the rapid antigen test no more than 48 hours. For proof of vaccination, it must have been at least 14 days since the last dose was administered, and travelers must have a physical copy of their vaccination certificate. A 10-day quarantine will no longer be required for U.S. travelers arriving in Germany unless you happen to travel first to a higher risk country i.e. Portugal.  Greece Travelers from the European Union, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Rwanda, Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, Serbia, and the United Arab Emirates are allowed to enter Greece without having to be quarantined if they meet certain conditions, according to the Greek government. If you are traveling from one of the above countries and have been vaccinated for COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to arrival, you are not required to quarantine and also not required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test. If you are not vaccinated, you must provide a COVID-19 PCR test that was conducted no more than 72 hours before you arrive in Greece. Children under five are exempt. Each traveler must complete a passenger locator form at least 24 hours before arriving in Greece. International arrivals in Greece will be subject to random and mandatory health checks, which may include rapid COVID-19 antigen testing. Test-positive COVID patients will be transported to a quarantine hotel by the Greek government, where they will take a COVID-19 PCR test to confirm the results. If they test positive again, travelers will be quarantined for at least 10 days, after which they will undergo a new round of testing to determine if they are COVID-free. Hungary At time of publication, Hungary did not allow U.S. travelers to enter, with very limited exceptions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Hungary. Iceland Iceland announced that vaccinated travelers and those who have recovered from COVID-19 can enter the country. In addition to the COVID-19 test, they will also have to undergo quarantine until the results are available (typically within six to twenty-four hours). Those who are not vaccinated may also travel to Iceland, but they will have to undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival, quarantine for five days, and then undergo a second COVID-19 test after the five days of quarantine. Before entering the country, everyone must preregister. It is the responsibility of travelers to provide proof that they have been fully vaccinated (so both doses if two doses are required) with a vaccine that has been approved for use by the European Medicines Agency, which includes the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. Ireland Ireland began welcoming travelers from within Europe who have the EU Digital COVID Certificate on July 19th—a digital health pass issued to EU residents who have been vaccinated for COVID-19, tested negative for the virus, or who have recovered from COVID-19. Travelers with the EU Digital COVID Certificate will not need to quarantine. Travelers from all countries outside of Europe, including the U.K. and the U.S., as long as the country is not on the European Union's "emergency brake" list -- countries with new or renewed entry restrictions due to an escalating covid threat.  In order to bypass otherwise mandatory COVID-19 testing and quarantine, travelers arriving from the U.S. will have to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination. To prove vaccination, you must present a COVID-19 PCR result obtained within 72 hours before your arrival. After their arrival, they must undergo quarantine and another post-arrival test. Italy Once one of the world's hardest-hit Covid spots, In order to enter Italy, Americans need to be vaccinated for COVID-19, recovered from COVID, or present a negative COVID test result. The Italian government’s new plan for U.S. travelers went into effect on June 21. In order to meet the new requirements for entering Italy, Americans must provide proof of vaccination completed at least 14 days before arrival in Italy (so your second dose, if two are needed, must have been received at least two weeks before your trip). Vaccination certificates issued by the USA's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will be accepted by Italian officials. As an alternative, U.S. travelers can also present a lab-generated negative COVID-test result within 48 hours of departure for Italy—either a rapid antigen or PCR test. (Travelers must provide certification of the laboratory that performed the test.) According to the Italian government, the third option is to provide proof of recovery from COVID-19 "with a medical certificate outlining any necessary information." The Netherlands As of June 24, Americans can freely enter the Netherlands—no vaccine, negative test, or quarantine required. They will need to complete a health declaration (more information is available on the government's website). Poland A fully vaccinated traveler (meaning it has been at least 14 days since the second dose if two doses were required) entering Poland, including those from the U.S., are exempt from an otherwise mandatory 10-day quarantine. Portugal ****To illustrate how things change. Just as I was getting ready to post this I read that the State Department had changed the travel advisory to Portugal to level 4 due to the spread of the Delta variant in Portugal so I would expect tighter travel controls to follow*** Updated 7/27/2021 Portugal reopened for United States travelers who had passed the COVID test on June 15. Read about my recent travel at these links: https://europeantravel.blog/visiting-lisbon/ https://europeantravel.blog/2-days-in-albufeira/ https://europeantravel.blog/hit-the-beach-lagos-portugal/ “Starting on June 15, nonessential (i.e., tourist travel) from the United States to mainland Portugal is permitted for travelers with proof of a negative COVID-19 test,” the U.S. Embassy in Portugal stated. At this time, travelers from the United States are not required to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine in order to travel to Portugal. All passengers entering Portugal, except for children under 24 months of age, must simply provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. A nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), such as PCR, must be performed within 72 hours of boarding, or a rapid antigen test must be performed within 24 hours of boarding. No additional testing or quarantine will be required for mainland Portugal. It is important to fill out a Passenger Locator Card within 48 hours of traveling to Portugal. U.S. travelers who wish to visit the Azores or Madeira should be aware that both islands have different entry requirements. Romania Americans can skip a 14-day quarantine requirement if they provide proof of vaccination (completed at least 10 days before arrival) or proof of recovery from COVID-19, according to the Romanian Embassy. Children 3 and younger are exempt. A negative COVID PCR test must be provided within 72 hours of travel for children aged 3 to 16. Spain To travel to Spain from the U.S., follow these steps: Fill out an online Health Control Form, then show the QR code when you arrive. No vaccination certificate, COVID test, or quarantine is required. Sweden From June 30, the U.S. will be exempt from the travel ban, as well as Albania, Hong Kong, Lebanon, Macao, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Taiwan. Now, travelers must present a certificate confirming a negative result for ongoing COVID-19 infection within 48 hours of arrival. Those under 18, those with long-term residency status, and visitors who meet a handful of other requirements can forgo the test. Vaccination doesn't eliminate the need for the test, but it does mean you don’t need to undergo the recommended quarantine. Switzerland From June 28, travelers from the U.S. with proof of the COVID-19 test will no longer need to be quarantined or provide proof of vaccination. They will only need to show proof that they are fully vaccinated. The unvaccinated must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 72 hours of travel, or a negative COVID rapid antigen test result within 48 hours of travel.  Regardless of vaccination status, travelers must fill out an online form before entering Switzerland. United Kingdom As of May 17, Britain replaced its blanket ban on overseas travel with a traffic-light system that categorizes countries as low, medium, or high risk. Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

Hit The Beach-Lagos, Portugal

2 days in Lagos, Portugal. Greetings to all. I'm in Portugal. My first trip since the Coronavirus lockdowns.  Lagos is at the western end of the Algarve region on the southern coast of Portugal. I’ll be in Portugal for just over a week and will be staying in Lagos, Albufeira, and Lisbon.  Lagos is an ancient maritime town with more than 2000 years of history. Located in southern Portugal's Algarve region, Lagos attracts vacationers from throughout Europe, especially during the summer months (July & August). The summer season really begins here on July 15th so I am just beating the major crowds. This historical town boasts rugged coastlines, beautiful sandy beaches, a beautiful marina, and crystal-clear waters. Lagos is often a starting point for those who plan to explore more of the Algarve and provides a convenient base for day trips. While researching my trip to Portugal, I saw Lagos, and I knew I had to go! How to get there  To get to Lagos from Lisbon, it’s under a three-hour drive, or alternatively, you can take a bus or train quite easily. However, I choose a different route flying into Faro from Munich and taking a train to Lagos. The Lisbon train however requires a transfer in Tunes while the Faro to Lagos train is direct. From the train station to the center f town is about a fifteen-minute walk. The bus station is only about 5 minutes from the town center. Where to stay  In terms of where to stay, there are a ton of different accommodation options in Lagos including AirBnb’s, hotels, and hostels. However, if you’re planning on traveling during the high season (summer) be aware that you will pay more for accommodations, and also, they’ll book up quickly so make sure you book in advance. Since I booked just before the onslaught of tourists I didn’t have any problems. When looking for the perfect spot for you, also ensure you look at the area the accommodation is located in. It’s ideal to be central as you’ll be within walking distance to almost everything and anything you need. I stayed at the Suites Inn Lagos because of its location close to the Marina, the town, and about a 10-minute walk to the beach. They serve breakfast in a basket to your room which you can eat out on a little balcony. What to do Lagos is a beautiful vacation location and has so much to offer, but its beaches are definitely its biggest draw. Maybe stick to Lisbon or Porto instead if you're not a beach person, but the beaches here will make anyone a beach person. The length of your stay is really determined by how much time you have in Portugal and what interests you. For me, three nights and two days was plenty of time, but I'm very active and cannot lie on beaches for that long. However, if you're able to stay longer, you can go on hikes and take day trips. This is what I suggest for a two-day visit to this beautiful city in Portugal. Day One: On your first day in Lagos, Portugal, head out on a kayak to see the grottos and caves along the rocky coast. There are different departure times throughout the day, and a number of companies offer this tour. The best time to do it is in the morning, but there are several departure times throughout the day. EZride was recommended to me. A unique aspect of this company was that you kayaked for about 1.5 hours and then get towed back.  Unfortunately, the ocean was a little too rough for kayaks so I had to opt for a boat tour of the grottos. The tour cost me around €25 which included a €5 tip. At lunchtime, I went to Goji Lounge Cafe. This is a vegan and vegetarian restaurant, but they also serve other foods. I was in the mood for some fresh salad and a smoothie as I knew I was going to eat many other not-so-healthy things on the trip. However, if that’s not your thing there are several other places in and around the main town center.  After lunch, you could visit Sagres, a nearby town. You can drive there in about 35 minutes, or take the inexpensive bus that runs by Eva (around €3 one way). There are a number of things that make Sagres famous, but its sunsets are its main draw. So take the afternoon to explore the area and stay for the sunset. In the afternoon, you might want to visit Cabo Sao Vicente (a stunning coastal point), Sagres fort, and the working fishing harbor. For dinner, I loved La Estrella. La Estrella is run by a couple from Belgium and serves an eclectic mix of different cuisines. Normally all the food is made from scratch but Inga-one of the owners apologized that the toast that the hummus came with was not made from scratch (it was perfectly fine but showed the level of attention and love she puts into her dishes.  They also have quite a good selection of Belgian beers to choose from. Lagos Beaches   - Meia Praia (Half Beach) —the most popular tourist beach, consisting of soft, white sand, Meia Praia is one of the largest open bays in Europe, resulting in calm seas, permitting conditions for many nautical sports like kayaking and sailboarding, while cliffs provide sheltered coves from strong windy conditions of the Atlantic. - Praia Solaria (Sunny Beach); - Praia da Batata (Potato Beach) — a small beach tucked between two small cliffs (where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean), it is known for the small music festivals that take place there during summer; - Praia dos Estudantes (Students' Beach); - Praia da Dona Ana (Dona Ana Beach) -its areal is slightly thicker than the beaches in the surrounding area and it is surrounded by striking rock formations. - Praia do Canavial (Canavial Beach); - Praia de Camilo (Camilo Beach); - Praia da Luz (Beach of Light) - located in the parish of Luz, the beach is bounded in the east by Rocha Negra (English: Black Rock), providing summer vacationers with a popular escape during the summer. - Praia da Balança- located after Praia da Boneca and Praia dos Pinheiros, it is a sandy cove enclosed by towering cliffs.   Day Two: Enjoy a beautiful coastal hike on your last full day in Lagos before the heat sets in. As you follow the coast, you should be fine, but the signage for trails isn't the best. If you intend to reach another viewpoint or beach, you may need to go off the trail and back to the main road. For me, the hike started at Praia dos Estudantes, but for others, it may vary depending on where they're staying. From Estudantes, I made my way to Praia do Pinhao and Praia Dona Ana. Next, I stopped at Camilo Beach, Ponta de Piedade, and Praia do  Canavial and Porto de Mos. I could have kept walking, but I had hiked for around four hours and was in need of some R&R on the beach on my hike back.  For lunch, I ate at Pie. A small pub-style place with rooftop dining. I opted for a chicken pot pie that was quite delicious. If you want some British-style food I can recommend it. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach of your choice - there are tons of options, and you've earned it! If you want to cool off, stop by Crema di Gelato in the main town center. You must try their Porto-flavored ice cream! There is almost always a line for this place. If the line is too long get a gelato at the place across the alley. It is good as well but doesn't have the marketing. You can choose from a variety of different dinner options. At this point in my Portugal trip, I was really enjoying dining out and finding food I haven't seen in over a year. The main center of Lagos is packed with food options within walking distance and the city comes alive at night. You can browse each menu out front to pick and choose what you like. No matter if it's traditional Portuguese cuisine at Casa do Prego or a famous burger at Nah Nah Bah. Their Toucan Burger was a winner of the Top 50 Burgers in the World Award! A seared beef patty with crispy bacon, juicy pineapple, melted cheese, tomato, onion, lettuce & their secret family sauce. I passed on it for one of my favorite burger styles and got the blue ball buster, a blue cheese burger which was quite good. There are so many things to do in Lagos and it's a wonderful place to vacation. There are endless beaches to relax on, beautiful views, and many hiking trails in the area, as well as easy daytrips to explore more of the Algarve. What to Do at Night in Lagos For such a small town you can definitely tell that it is a tourist town based on a large number of bars and nightclubs in the city. Go bar-hopping along Rua de Abril. Book a Lagos sunset cruise. Duna Beach Club. InsideOut Bar. (For the younger crowd)   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

5 Scottish Distilleries Worth Visiting

Dreaming of a wee dram of Scotch in Scotland? It is a great experience to tour one of the world's great drinks in a beautiful Scottish country setting, too, as these distilleries offer insight into a favorite drink of many. Some Of Our Favorite Scottish Distilleries Worth Visiting   Nc’nean, Morvern The journey to Nc'nean on Scotland's west coast, a remote and free-spirited whisky startup located 12 (slow) miles down a single-track road, is an adventure in and of itself. When you do make it, you'll get more from a tour (with coffee and organic cake) than stats about this exciting, sustainable company. Currently, the team here is experimenting with yeast strains, stills of varying shapes, and longer mashes. It is like Craft Brewing for distilleries. Observe wildlife as you walk in any direction along the coast, such as otters, pine martens, and sea eagles. Tour prices are £15 per person and under 18’s are welcome. Stay Achnacriche, doubles from £95 B&B  Tours from £15pp, Lochaline, ncnean.com Kingsbarns, Fife Despite their relative ease of drinking, Lowland whiskies have a hard time competing with the potent demons of Islay or the ethereal Highland whiskies, and there were only a few distilleries left ten years ago. However, there are many new producers in Fife. Kingbarns' new visitor center and restaurant are housed in meticulously restored farmsteads and a 200-year-old dovecot. It is surrounded by golden fields of barley: the same stuff that your mash tun froths up with. The distillery's first release, Dream to Dram, is a perfect distillation of Fife's farming heritage, one that's even enticed golfers away from St Andrews' Old Course, just eight miles away. They have 3 types of whisky distillery tours suitable for all levels of whisky interest. Stay The Old Station, doubles from £90 B&B  Tours from £10pp, Kingsbarns, kingsbarnsdistillery.com Springbank, Argyll and Bute More than 30 distilleries pumped waste back into Campbeltown Loch in Campbeltown (a distinct whisky region unique to the Kintyre peninsula) in its prime - hence the Andy Stewart song, "Campbeltown Loch/ I wish you were whisky". As the oldest distillery remaining in the city, Springbank produces its maritime dram at the same site in the center of town since 1828. It might not be the most scenic distillery on our list but it is old school and original. There is more to see at Springbank than most tours, since the entire production line is here, from the malting floor to the bottling plant. Stay Grammar Lodge, doubles from £90 B&B  Tours from £10pp, Campbeltown, springbank.scot Ardbeg, Argyll and Bute Infused with seaweed and sea salt, the peat of Islay is used as fuel to dry barley to make the island's signature whisky. In addition to a trek over Islay's peat-cloaked hills (perhaps by way of Kildalton Cross, one of the landmark early Christian crosses in Scotland), Ardbeg tours include an outdoor tasting and a picnic lunch prepared by the distillery's restaurant staff. Visit the distillery and stay at Seaview Cottage, the former home of the distillery manager. Could Islay whisky's ultimate experience be sitting in the background of Atlantic breakers, sipping Ardbeg Supernova while a peat fire roars in the stove? Ardberg is also a very popular Scotch Whisky in Germany. Stay Seaview Cottage, sleeps six, from £200 a night (minimum two-night stay)  Tours from £8pp, Ardbeg, Port Ellen, Islay, ardbeg.com Strathisla, Moray Do you think you have what it takes to be a master blender? Strathisla, the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Highlands, offers the Chivas Blending Experience (£60). Now owned by Pernod Ricard, which also owns Chivas Regal, the distillery's cobbled courtyard seems to lead to a mad professor-style blending lab, replete with bulbous burettes filled with fine malt whisky. It is described as the heart and soul of Chivas. By taking a tour, you can create (and keep) your very own blend. The distillery features stones plucked from Milton Castle, which is adjacent to the distillery. Stay Isla Bank House, doubles from £130 B&B  Tours from £15pp, Keith, maltwhiskydistilleries.com HOW TO SERVE YOUR WHISKY You should sip your whisky out of a bowl-shaped glass that has a narrow rim, such as a tulip glass or a Glencairn glass if you have one. These allow you to swirl the whisky around to release the smells, and channel the aroma to your nose so you can sniff and sip the whisky instead of slurping it down. Whisky should be served at room temperature. You won't get the full flavor if it's too cold. (The same applies to beer by the way). In order to release volatile oils and other aromas, you can even warm the glass in your hands. Enjoy your whisky neat, or add a splash of water like I prefer to do to bring out additional flavors. Swirl your whisky around your glass and hold it up to the light. Color can give you some clues about its origin, such as how old it is or what type of cask it's been aged in (more below).  Now, sniff and drink! Let the whisky linger on your tongue after exploring the nose. FLAVOR PROFILES TO LOOK FOR As everyone's sense of smell is different, their reactions to whisky aromas will be different as well. To provide accessible tasting notes, many whisky tasting wheels have been created. The first six aromas to look out for will occur during the fermentation and distillation processes, and the last two during maturation.  The eight flavors are: Cereal:  These are aromas derived from malted barley, which are modified by fermentation and distillation. Fruity:  Also known as esters, these are the sweet, fragrant, fruity, solvent-like odors formed by yeast as it converts glucose into ethanol. Floral:  Aromatic flavors, or aldehydic ones, are leafy, grassy, or hay-like, like the Parma Violet. Peaty:  Generally associated with Islay malts, peaty or phenolic flavors develop during the kilning process. The smells range from wood smoke to tar. Feinty:  Feints usually come in midway through the spirit run, beginning as biscuity or toasted scents, and developing into tobacco and honeyed scents. Cask maturation can transform and mellow them. Sulphury:  Sulphur compounds are produced during distillation and maturation.  Since these aromas can be considered unpleasant, copper is an important component of whisky stills in order to remove them. Woody:  Scotch whisky must be matured in oak barrels, the most common types of which are American oak and European oak. The age of the whisky can influence the taste, and oak can add complexity, flavor, and color, as well as developing the roundness of the spirit. Winey:  It is common to find casks that were previously filled with wine - such as sherry, red wine, Madeira or Marsala. As such, the wood would have absorbed wine residues, which the spirit extracts and adds to the flavor of the spirit.  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society While not a distillery the Scotch Malt Whisky Society works with numerous distilleries. You can even visit one of their locations in Edinburgh as a non-member for dinner but I would join to get the full benefit. If you want to learn more about Scotch Whisky and pick up some incredible bottles I suggest you take a look at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Even if you are not in Scotland they have partner bars all over the world. The bottles they have of Whisky, Gin, Rum, Cognac, Bourbon, and Armagnac from numerous distilleries where the cask did not match the distiller's flavor profile. I’m a member and have enjoyed numerous bottles from there. Here are some of their latest releases which they call outturns.   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

7 Bavarian Lakes Worth Visiting

Munich or München isn't far from nature, so when you're there, you won't need to travel far. You can find some pretty spectacular lakes just outside of Munich - and it takes you no more than two hours to get there! Bavarian lakes are some incredibly beautiful examples of nature, so you'd be foolish if you didn't visit them. Bavaria boasts some of the best lakes in Germany, many of which are within easy reach of Munich, so the next time you've got a free afternoon, pack a picnic cooler and head out to one of these wonders. Many of the lakes are leftover from the Ice Age. The 7 most beautiful lakes around Munich PRO TIP: Munich's lakes can all be accessed with a Bayern ticket, so take advantage of this discount to avoid paying full price. Here’s a little-known tip, you can actually buy them online in advance or on your phone if you download the Bahn.de app. 1. Starnberger See Of all the "Munich lakes", Lake Starnberg is probably the most well-known, mainly because it is the closest and easiest to access. It is 30 kilometres (19 mi) southwest of Munich. It is generally viewed as a rich persons lake as many of Munich's celebrities and pro-athletes have houses there. The main sites beside the lake are Starnberger Schloss (castle) with the castle garden and St. Joseph's Church. Taking the S6 to Starnberg (instead of Starnberg Nord) will allow you to reach Starnberger See from Munich. You can then take a bus to the next lake on the list or stop along the way at one of my favorite spots, Kloster Andechs. The buses are included in the Bayern ticket. Protip: Consider staying in Starnberg if you are going to go to Oktoberfest. It is cheaper, quieter and easier to get a reservation. 2. Ammersee It is a great place to watch sunsets or have an ice cream cone in the town of Herrsching and is a perfect day trip to combine with a visit to the famous Andechs Monastery (which is known very well around Munich for its tasty beer). Hike up to earn your treat, or simply take the bus! You can also enjoy cruising across the lake on an old-fashioned paddle wheeler between the towns of Herrsching and Dießen am Ammersee. How to get from Munich to Ammersee: Take the S8 to Herrsching or the 950 or 951 bus from Starnberg. 3. Chiemsee You can take a scenic boat ride to Herrenchiemsee New Palace, which is located on an island at Chiemsee. The German Versailles is a must-see opulent experience. There are three main islands on the lake: Herreninsel ("gentlemen's island"), the largest, with an area of 590 acres; Frauenchiemsee, 38 acres, also called Fraueninsel ("ladies' island"); and uninhabited Krautinsel ("cabbage island"), 8.6 acres, called this name because in the Middle Ages it was cultivated with cabbages and other vegetables. Herreninsel has a palace built by King Ludwig II in 1878 called Herrenchiemsee, which was never completed but was meant to be a replica of the Palace of Versailles. Many of its rooms are open to tourists; tours of the palace and its extensive grounds are conducted throughout the summer. Frauenchiemsee, the smaller of the two main islands, houses a Benedictine nunnery, built in 782, as well as a small village. The nuns make a liquor called Klosterlikör ("cloister liquor") and marzipan both of which should be purchased. You can read more about it here: https://europeantravel.blog/touring-across-southern-germany/ How to get from Munich to Chiemsee: Take the train to Prien am Chiemsee, which takes about an hour. 4. Walchensee The water in this alpine lake is so brilliant and blue that you would think you were in Lake Tahoe. It is strongly recommended that you go hiking in the area... the views are unbelievable. In World War II In April 1945 the Wehrmacht and officials of the Reichsbank created a plan to store part of the reserves of the German Reichsbank at Einsiedl, a small hamlet on the southwest shore of the lake. Subsequently, the assets were buried in an undisclosed location in the crags above the Obernach power plant. The assets consisted of 365 sacks, each with two gold bars, nine envelopes with gold documents, four crates of gold, two bags of gold coins, six boxes of Danish coins, and 94 sacks of foreign currency. The foreign currency was mainly U.S. dollars and Swiss francs. On 6 June 1945, the treasure was handed over to the Allies. One hundred gold bars and all the U.S. dollars and Swiss francs were missing. Speculation is that there are also other hoards, where valuables such as other currencies or gemstones were hidden so if you have the time to explore the area you may become rich and famous. How to get from Munich to Walchensee: Take the regional train to Kochel (about an hour). Hop on a Regionalverkehr Oberbayern bus to Walchensee (options include 9608, 9611, and 9612) from Kochel. 5. Königssee In Berchtesgaden National Park, this stunning natural lake is near the Austrian border. Often, it is touted as Germany's most serene and cleanest lake. It was also a top pick in an Americans in Germany Facebook group I am in. To keep the lake pristine only electric-powered passenger ships, rowing, and pedal boats have been permitted on the lake since 1909. St. Bartholomä, a famous pilgrimage church with an inn nearby, is located on a peninsula about halfway down the western lakeshore. Christlieger island is located near its northern end. South of the Königssee, separated by the Salet moraine, is the smaller Obersee lake with the 1,540 ft high Röthbach waterfall. Because there is no lakeside path on the steep shore of the Königssee, St. Bartholomä and the southern edge can only be reached by boat, or via hiking trails up the surrounding mountains.. How to get from Munich to Königssee: Take the train to Berchtesgaden (the best way depends on the time of day. There are no direct trains, so you'll need to change, usually in Freilassing). You can plan the best route by using DB's website or app. To reach Königssee and Schönau, take the RVO buses from Berchtesgaden (lines 841 and 842) and Berchtesgaden train station (lines 842, 843, 846). 6. Eibsee The Zugspitze looms in the background and the Eibsee has bright blue water that glows turquoise in the sun, making it one of the most photogenic lakes near Munich. You can go for a nice (relatively flat) hike around the lake for a bit of chill space or watersports. Due to its location below the Zugspitze and the clear, green-tinted water, the lake is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Bavarian Alps. You can also get there on e-bikes that you can rent in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It takes me about 45 minutes on a regular bike so on an e-bike you can cut that down in half and enjoy the pastoral countryside. Read more about Garmisch-Partenkirchen here: https://europeantravel.blog/garmisch-partenkirchen-bavarian-wonderland/ How to get from Munich to Eibsee: By train to Garmish-Partenkirchen and from there, take a blue bus hourly to Eibsee. 7. Tegernsee Known for its delicious beer, Tegernsee is a must-see if just to grab a cold one at the brewery (conveniently located by the lake). In Munich, Augustiner is the local favorite beer but in Southern Bavaria, Tegernsee is the most popular beer around. On a hot summer day, the water here is beyond gorgeous, and the vibe here is a lot more chill and peaceful than other lakes near Munich. The former Benedictine Abbey of Tegernsee is open to visitors. The complex is composed of the parish church of Saint Quirinus, the former abbey church, and the adjacent north and south wings surrounding the two courtyards. The north wing hosts the Herzoglich Bayerisches Brauhaus Tegernsee (Ducal Bavarian Brewery of Tegernsee), one of Germany's oldest and better breweries. How to get from Munich to Tegernsee: Take the BOB train directly to Tegernsee (it takes about an hour).   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

7 Bavarian Lakes Worth Visiting

Munich or München isn't far from nature, so when you're there, you won't need to travel far. You can find some pretty spectacular lakes just outside of Munich - and it takes you no more than two hours to get there! Bavarian lakes are some incredibly beautiful examples of nature, so you'd be foolish if you didn't visit them. Bavaria boasts some of the best lakes in Germany, many of which are within easy reach of Munich, so the next time you've got a free afternoon, pack a picnic cooler and head out to one of these wonders. Many of the lakes are leftover from the Ice Age. The 7 most beautiful lakes around Munich PRO TIP: Munich's lakes can all be accessed with a Bayern ticket, so take advantage of this discount to avoid paying full price. Here’s a little-known tip, you can actually buy them online in advance or on your phone if you download the Bahn.de app. 1. Starnberger See Of all the "Munich lakes", Lake Starnberg is probably the most well-known, mainly because it is the closest and easiest to access. It is 30 kilometres (19 mi) southwest of Munich. It is generally viewed as a rich persons lake as many of Munich's celebrities and pro-athletes have houses there. The main sites beside the lake are Starnberger Schloss (castle) with the castle garden and St. Joseph's Church. Taking the S6 to Starnberg (instead of Starnberg Nord) will allow you to reach Starnberger See from Munich. You can then take a bus to the next lake on the list or stop along the way at one of my favorite spots, Kloster Andechs. The buses are included in the Bayern ticket. Protip: Consider staying in Starnberg if you are going to go to Oktoberfest. It is cheaper, quieter and easier to get a reservation. 2. Ammersee It is a great place to watch sunsets or have an ice cream cone in the town of Herrsching and is a perfect day trip to combine with a visit to the famous Andechs Monastery (which is known very well around Munich for its tasty beer). Hike up to earn your treat, or simply take the bus! You can also enjoy cruising across the lake on an old-fashioned paddle wheeler between the towns of Herrsching and Dießen am Ammersee. How to get from Munich to Ammersee: Take the S8 to Herrsching or the 950 or 951 bus from Starnberg. 3. Chiemsee You can take a scenic boat ride to Herrenchiemsee New Palace, which is located on an island at Chiemsee. The German Versailles is a must-see opulent experience. There are three main islands on the lake: Herreninsel ("gentlemen's island"), the largest, with an area of 590 acres; Frauenchiemsee, 38 acres, also called Fraueninsel ("ladies' island"); and uninhabited Krautinsel ("cabbage island"), 8.6 acres, called this name because in the Middle Ages it was cultivated with cabbages and other vegetables. Herreninsel has a palace built by King Ludwig II in 1878 called Herrenchiemsee, which was never completed but was meant to be a replica of the Palace of Versailles. Many of its rooms are open to tourists; tours of the palace and its extensive grounds are conducted throughout the summer. Frauenchiemsee, the smaller of the two main islands, houses a Benedictine nunnery, built in 782, as well as a small village. The nuns make a liquor called Klosterlikör ("cloister liquor") and marzipan both of which should be purchased. You can read more about it here: https://europeantravel.blog/touring-across-southern-germany/ How to get from Munich to Chiemsee: Take the train to Prien am Chiemsee, which takes about an hour. 4. Walchensee The water in this alpine lake is so brilliant and blue that you would think you were in Lake Tahoe. It is strongly recommended that you go hiking in the area... the views are unbelievable. In World War II In April 1945 the Wehrmacht and officials of the Reichsbank created a plan to store part of the reserves of the German Reichsbank at Einsiedl, a small hamlet on the southwest shore of the lake. Subsequently, the assets were buried in an undisclosed location in the crags above the Obernach power plant. The assets consisted of 365 sacks, each with two gold bars, nine envelopes with gold documents, four crates of gold, two bags of gold coins, six boxes of Danish coins, and 94 sacks of foreign currency. The foreign currency was mainly U.S. dollars and Swiss francs. On 6 June 1945, the treasure was handed over to the Allies. One hundred gold bars and all the U.S. dollars and Swiss francs were missing. Speculation is that there are also other hoards, where valuables such as other currencies or gemstones were hidden so if you have the time to explore the area you may become rich and famous. How to get from Munich to Walchensee: Take the regional train to Kochel (about an hour). Hop on a Regionalverkehr Oberbayern bus to Walchensee (options include 9608, 9611, and 9612) from Kochel. 5. Königssee In Berchtesgaden National Park, this stunning natural lake is near the Austrian border. Often, it is touted as Germany's most serene and cleanest lake. It was also a top pick in an Americans in Germany Facebook group I am in. To keep the lake pristine only electric-powered passenger ships, rowing, and pedal boats have been permitted on the lake since 1909. St. Bartholomä, a famous pilgrimage church with an inn nearby, is located on a peninsula about halfway down the western lakeshore. Christlieger island is located near its northern end. South of the Königssee, separated by the Salet moraine, is the smaller Obersee lake with the 1,540 ft high Röthbach waterfall. Because there is no lakeside path on the steep shore of the Königssee, St. Bartholomä and the southern edge can only be reached by boat, or via hiking trails up the surrounding mountains.. How to get from Munich to Königssee: Take the train to Berchtesgaden (the best way depends on the time of day. There are no direct trains, so you'll need to change, usually in Freilassing). You can plan the best route by using DB's website or app. To reach Königssee and Schönau, take the RVO buses from Berchtesgaden (lines 841 and 842) and Berchtesgaden train station (lines 842, 843, 846). 6. Eibsee The Zugspitze looms in the background and the Eibsee has bright blue water that glows turquoise in the sun, making it one of the most photogenic lakes near Munich. You can go for a nice (relatively flat) hike around the lake for a bit of chill space or watersports. Due to its location below the Zugspitze and the clear, green-tinted water, the lake is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Bavarian Alps. You can also get there on e-bikes that you can rent in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It takes me about 45 minutes on a regular bike so on an e-bike you can cut down in half and enjoy the pastoral countryside. Read more about Garmisch-Partenkirchen here: https://europeantravel.blog/garmisch-partenkirchen-bavarian-wonderland/ How to get from Munich to Eibsee: By train to Garmish-Partenkirchen and from there, take a blue bus hourly to Eibsee. 7. Tegernsee Known for its delicious beer, Tegernsee is a must-see if just to grab a cold one at the brewery (conveniently located by the lake). In Munich, Augustiner is the local favorite beer but in Southern Bavaria, Tegernsee is the most popular beer around. On a hot summer day, the water here is beyond gorgeous, and the vibe here is a lot more chill and peaceful than other lakes near Munich. The former Benedictine Abbey of Tegernsee is open to visitors. The complex is composed of the parish church of Saint Quirinus, the former abbey church, and the adjacent north and south wings surrounding the two courtyards. The north wing hosts the Herzoglich Bayerisches Brauhaus Tegernsee (Ducal Bavarian Brewery of Tegernsee), one of Germany's oldest and better breweries. How to get from Munich to Tegernsee: Take the BOB train directly to Tegernsee (it takes about an hour).   Read the full article

[europeantravel1]

Touring Across Southern Germany

Traveling In Germany Europe Using BlaBlaCar If you want to travel across Germany in a car you can go the traditional route and rent a car, or you can try something different, Bla Bla Car. With the rise of the ride-sharing economy, people can hop a ride with locals going where they need to go, and BlaBlaCar is the reigning king of this service. This service is wildly popular and widely available in Europe, and I have used it a number of times. You can rideshare with people who have extra space in their car. It's easy. You find a ride, they agree to take you, and you're off. It is possible to find rides for as little as five euros. Getting around Europe on a budget is easy with this service. You can meet locals, speak with them, and save a ton of money over bus and train travel. You can also find websites that allow you to request rides, as long as you pay for the gas. Gumtree is a favorite of backpackers. I personally haven't tried the Southern Germany itinerary below using this method but for those on a budget, it can be an option to seeing the country and the great sites. Otherwise, just rent a car and travel worry-free at your own pace. Touring Southern Germany The journey I am going to talk about begins in Lindau on Lake Constance. You can fly into either Frankfurt or Zurich to get there pretty easily. As we continue west along this route, you'll pass a number of impressive castles, before arriving in Baden Baden, a spa town. From there, you head east to Ulm and then south to Fussen, then into the Bavarian Alps and a series of fantasy castles. At Oberammergau, you'll head toward Lake Chiemsee, then further east to the Alps and to Berchtesgaden, where you can see the Eagle’s Nest at the top of a mountain.  Lindau-Lake Constance The border between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria runs roughly along the middle of Lake Constance. The lake in Germany is known as the Bodensee, and its main island is home to the ancient Bavarian town of Lindau. The island was only connected to the mainland by a causeway built in 1853, which allowed trains and carriages to reach the island. Then a new harbor and Bavaria's only lighthouse were built. Throughout its history, the town has been owned by both Austria and France, and it was only in 1955 that the French returned it to Germany. Under the leadership of Otto Von Bismark, the modern-day Germany that we recognize today was only founded in the middle of the 19th century. A series of independent federal states were unified under him. It was also a period in which German Romanticism became a major movement, symbolized by the many castles reconstructed in a romantic medieval style. Once home to the Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen princes, Sigmaringen Castle is pictured here. The oldest parts of it date from the 11th century, though what we see today is from the 19th. As a testament to the nobility's wealth and power, it became a meeting place for the nobility of Europe. For castle builders, deep, sided valleys with rocky crags provided an excellent location where to build a fortress, which they later rebuilt in a style reminiscent of earlier times. Werenwag Castle sits upon a crag in this area. In the early 12th century, there was an old castle here, but the castle we see today dates from the 1830's when the Princes of Furstenberg inherited Wernwag and began transforming it into what we see today. You can only imagine the difficulty of building it on this high crag above the valley. The castle has been damaged by fire in the 1890s and even an earthquake in 1911 when the staircase tower and some of the battlements cracked and crumbled.  Wildenstein Castle is located on the other side of the valley. We still see some parts of the original work from the 12th century. The stables and related buildings are connected by a narrow bridge to the main castle located on a rocky crag. Many of the castles in this part of Germany are perched on rocky outcrops and offer wonderful views. This small castle, however, can't compare to another castle 20 miles to the north, which is one of the finest in Europe, and one that can be seen for miles around. Hohenzollern castle is perched on top of the mountain, which is near 3,000 ft high. Construction began in 1850 under Frederick William IV, king of Prussia, and it took seventeen years to complete. This fantastic castle, built on an enormous scale, is another excellent example of the romance movement. While it is doubtful that medieval knight's castles really looked like this fairy-tale version, the style contains the idealized vision of what they should look like. It was also intended to impress and enhance the reputation of the Prussian Royal Family, whose ancestors first built a castle on the same site in the 11th century. During the year 1423, Hohenzollern was completely destroyed by a year-long siege. Its existence is known only by written records. During the next three centuries, it was occupied by a number of different countries, including the Austrians and the French. At the end of the 18th century, the castle was a ruin. All that remained was the chapel of St. Michael, which was incorporated into the third incarnation we see today. Rebuilt after the castle was destroyed, it was no longer regularly occupied but rather used as a showplace. Two lines of the Hohenzollern family still own it. With over 300,000 visitors a year, the castle is one of the most popular in Germany.  Honau-Lichtenstein Castle A smaller and equally impressive castle is Lichtenstein Castle located above Honau. The romantic neo-gothic castle was constructed in the 1840s for Duke Wilhelm of Urach, Count of Wurttemberg. Lichtenstein was a popular historical novel published in 1826 that inspired the design. As at Hohenzollern, the castle operates on the ruins of two earlier castles that were torn down in comparatively short order during the 14th century. After that, it fell into disrepair until it was taken over by Duke Wilhelm. The lower rooms of the building are carved out of the rock that supports it. In the late 19th century, the tall tower was added. The fairy-tale castle still belongs to the Dukes of Urach and is a popular tourist attraction. Tubingen A twelve-mile drive away is Tubingen, one of the five classical university towns in Germany, along with Marburg, Gottingen, Freiburg, and Heidelberg. The old castle is now a part of the University, which consists of almost 25,000 students, a third of the town's population.  Johannes Kepler, the famed astronomer at the end of the 16th century, and Joseph Ratzinger, AKA Pope Benedict XVI, were among the eminent students who walked these ancient streets. Baden-Baden   The spa town of Baden-Baden is located in the Black Forest to the west. If you fly into Frankfurt you could actually hit it first. It is one of my favorite German towns. Honestly, I'm not much of a spa person but I love going here to relax and unwind. To bath or bathe in, is the meaning of the German word Baden. Early on, the town was simply known as Baden, and the double name was officially adopted in 1931 and shortened from Baden in Baden, as it is in the state of Baden Wurttemberg. Romans were the first to recognize the healing properties of the town's water. There is a theory that Hadrian founded the town, and Emperor Caracalla certainly came here to alleviate his arthritis symptoms. One of the town's spas is named after him. After the Roman Empire fell, the town became partially ruined and declined for several centuries. Baden was only rediscovered as a spa town at the end of the 18th century. There were also several famous composers and writers who frequented the resort in the 19th century, including Berlioz and Brahms, as well as Dostoyevsky, who wrote 'The Gambler' while gambling in the casino. A number of European and Russian royalty stayed in the hotels, including Queen Victoria, Napoleon III, and Wilhelm I of Germany. In fact, there is a collection of Faberge eggs that you can see. Pro-Tip Spend 2 nights there and make a day trip to nearby Strasbourg. Bad Urach Atop a hill overlooking Bad Urach is Hohenurach, which served as a prison during the middle ages. In the 18th century, when the prison shut down, locals climbed the hill and demolished it because it was feared and hated by the local people over the centuries. Bad Urach has many half-timbered houses in its old center. Ulm The same cannot be said about Ulm, thirty miles east. After a devastating air raid in 1944, much of the city was destroyed, but the magnificent church was barely damaged. Even the houses around the square in front of the church, where there is a market, were destroyed. Ulm has a cathedral-sized church, but since its bishop is not based there it is referred to as a minster. At just under 170 meters, it is the tallest church in the world. It is possible to see the Alps more than 70 miles to the south when it's clear. The building of the cathedral began in the middle of the 14th century, but work was repeatedly delayed, and in the 16th century it was entirely halted. In 1813, construction resumed again, and the church was finally finished in 1890. Kloster Roggenberg About ten miles to the east is Roggenberg Abbey, which was founded in the 10th century, but its current appearance dates from the mid-18th century. A period of secularisation resulted in the closure of the monastery in 1802 and the abbot's removal from office. As a move that brings the abbey full circle, in 1986 the building's and church's ownership was transferred to a group of monks who are working to restore the abbey to its former thriving status. Fussen-Neuschwanstein Continuing south on your journey, you now reach the foothills of the Alps, the great mountain range that separates Germany from Austria and Switzerland. Near the border lies the old town of Fussen, which is situated on the north bank of the River Lech. The Romans built this town as it was on the main road through the mountains to Italy, and to protect the route, they needed a base for soldiers. Among the best-preserved, late Gothic buildings in the region are the castle, which overlooks the town. Medieval houses can be found throughout the town and its center is still relatively untouched. A beautiful mountain landscape, along with two impressive castles, has made Fussen a popular place to stay. Hohenschwangau, which was built in 1833 by Maximilian II of Bavaria and his wife Marie of Prussia, is the oldest of the two. It was her favorite activity to walk in the mountains, and she often did so with her two sons, Otto and Ludwig. Within a mile of his childhood home, Ludwig built one of the greatest fantasy castles in history just a short distance from his throne. This is of course Neuschwanstein Castle which was designed as a personal refuge for King Ludwig, who gradually became more and more reclusive. As a result of his obsession with Richard Wagner, the castle was to stand as a representation of his most famous operas - Tannhauser and Lohengrin. Wagner's music left a lasting impression on the young king, and this is part of a letter he sent him in 1868 about his stunning new castle. 'It is my intention to rebuild the old castle ruin of Hohenschwangau near the Pollat Gorge in the authentic style of the old German knight's castle, and I must confess to you that I am looking forward very much to living there one day. You know the revered guest I would like to accommodate there; the location is one of the most beautiful to be found, holy and unapproachable, a worthy temple for the divine friend who has brought salvation and true blessings to the world.'  Today, the castle would cost over 100 million dollars. Over 300 workers were employed at various times and often worked by candlelight at night. This was all funded by the king and the money he borrowed. Inevitably, the cost of the castle doubled by the end. Read about Neuschwanstein here. A possible reason for locating the castle here was the view he got from the bridge his mother had built to span the gorge. Ludwig must have been profoundly impacted by this landscape while walking with his mother. His fantasy castle was only occupied for 172 days. Ludwig was finally declared mentally unstable and died aged 41 in 1886. Ludwig became known, perhaps unkindly, as Mad King Ludwig. Yet he left a remarkable fairy-tale castle that would inspire Sleeping Beauty's castle in Disneyland. Fussen is a nice quiet town to spend the night in. If you are a World War II buff you should visit the museum and see The Great Escape exhibits. The Great Escape itself didn't take place anywhere near here but many parts of the famous movie were filmed in Fussen and the surrounding area. Fussen is also home to the German Curling Federation and has hosted many Championship events in the beautiful arena they have. Linderhof Palace-Ettal Ludwig enjoyed hunting trips with his father as a child, and in a valley not far from his home he inherited his father's hunting lodge. The Linderhof Palace he eventually built reflects his love of grandiose constructs and his admiration for Louis XIV, the Sun King of France. Linderhof, named after the linden trees that surround it, was intended to complement the Royal Palace of Versailles, but it was never completed, as Ludwig later obtained an island on a large lake on which he could accomplish his grand plan. Ludwig's Linderhof may be the smallest of his palaces, but it is still an impressive sight. There is no doubt that the gardens surrounding the house reflect the French style of the time. As a result of the sloping ground to the north, it was possible to build a cascade, where water could run over thirty marble steps before dropping into the Neptune fountain. The music pavilion is at the top, and on the west and east sides are colorful parterres with fountains, statues, and covered walkways. A golden fountain stands near the foot of a three-stepped terraced garden leading to a temple topped with gold on the south side. In the park, inspired by the English landscape movement, he built a Moorish Kiosk, which he purchased in 1876. It is evident that his extravagance had no bounds, ultimately leading to his downfall.  On the other side of the valley is one of the most important monasteries in the Alpine region, built along the main trade route connecting northern Italy to Augsburg in Germany -- Ettal Abbey. Originally founded in the 14th century, the Benedictine abbey that we see today dates from the mid-18th century and is built in a Baroque style. An extensive fire in 1744 had devastated many of the abbey's buildings and caused the abbey's church to burn. During this time, Ettal entered its golden age, and the 'Knights' Academy' was established, which became a highly successful school. All this came to an end in 1803 with the secularization of church property. In 1898, a wealthy Catholic supporter bought back the buildings and gave them to a group of Benedictine monks from a nearby monastery. These monks now also run a successful brewery (with an excellent Weiss beer) and distillery. There is a small cafe on the abbey grounds. Oberammergau To the north of Oberammergau is a town that is home to the world-renowned Passion Play, performed since 1634. It began because local residents made a vow that if God spared them from the plague they would stage the Passion every ten years. Since then, the play is performed in years ending in '0'. Approximately 2,000 people took part in the 2010 play, which lasted seven hours. Performances were given between May and October. The 2020 play was postponed until 2022 because of Covid. Pro-Tip Visit the Eiscafe Paradiso for some great Ice Cream and Coffee treats. Garmisch-Partenkirchen Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Zugspitze, Eibsee Lake, and the Partnach Gorge are just a few miles south and you can read my detailed Garmisch blog here. Chiemsee Chiemsee, a freshwater lake on the edge of the Bavarian Alps, is 60 miles to the east. This body of water is sometimes referred to as the Bavarian Sea. It is a very popular place for sailing and other water sports. If you prefer a more sedate means of transportation, you can take a paddle steamer trip on the lake. There are many islands in the lake and the second largest is Frauenchiemsee. The paddle steamers drop off both visitors and island residents who do not have their own boats. Around 300 people live on the island, which is car-free. Thousands of people come to visit the Benedictine Convent, which dates back to 782. Nuns at the convent make Cloister Liquor, which they sell, as well as excellent marzipan to raise funds. König Ludwig's unfinished tribute to Versailles in France is hidden in the woods of the lake's largest island, Herrenchiemsee. Unfortunately, Ludwig didn't get to spend much time here before he died. His cost today would be about 70 million dollars for what he did build. The central section was the only part built, as all construction was halted a year after Ludwig's death. With fountains and parterres, the section of the garden that was completed copies the style of Versailles, as does a central allee that runs over a mile long, crossing the island. The palace is situated on an island and can only be reached by a small ferry, so it has remained in the shadow of Ludwig's best-known castle, Neuschwanstein. If you are interested in the architecture of the German Romantic movement, this island palace is well worth the trip. Berchtesgaden-Eagles Nest You can end your journey in the Bavarian Alps and Berchtesgaden, a place forever associated with Adolf Hitler. In Berchtesgaden, his house was destroyed, but one mountain top house that was a present from him has survived -- the Eagles Nest. He was given it as a gift in 1939, but he rarely visited it, so it avoided demolition after the war even though it is closely tied to him. Martin Bormann built the Eagle’s Nest on a 6,000ft ridge that is connected to the town by a four-mile mountain road cross that passes five tunnels. Just the road alone is estimated to cost over 100 million dollars today. The road ends at a car park below the house, from where busses deliver present-day visitors. Visitors ascend to the Eagles Nest via a 407ft lift through a tunnel on the mountain. The Eagle's Nest is now a small restaurant and bar where visitors can marvel at the view. After Berchtesgaden, if you aren't toured out by then you have the options of going to Munich, Salzburg, Prague, Vienna, Innsbruck, or Venice. I hope you enjoyed this journey. If you need any help in planning your trip please reach out to me.       Read the full article

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Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Bavarian Wonderland

Top Places To Visit In Garmisch-Partenkirchen Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of the most popular year-round holiday destinations in the Bavarian Alps. The ski resort is well known as a winter sports resort, having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1936 and the International Alpine Skiing Championships in 1978 and 2011, and a giant Ski Jumping competition during New Years'. It is also where I have lived for the past three years. I had visited the area numerous times over the past 20 years or so. I knew my lack of German would not be a problem since there is a small American military base here. I also knew that I could do two of my favorite winter activities, curling, and skiing here. Plus it was close enough to Munich that I could also easily travel to anywhere I wanted to go in Europe. Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s was originally known as Partanum. Partanum's history goes back to AD 15, when it served as a major stopover on the route that connected Venice with Augsburg. The valley of the Loisach is surrounded by mighty mountains on all four sides: to the north, Kramer and the Wank; to the south, the towering Wetterstein group, with the Kreuzeck, the jagged Alpspitze, and the Dreitorspitze; and rearing up behind the Grosser Waxenstein, the famous Zugspitze, at 2,962 meters Germany's highest mountain. Garmisch-Partenkirchen was actually two separate towns up until the 1936 Olympics when the towns were joined together for the Olympics. To this day locals often refer to them as two separate towns though and really don’t cross over too much to the other one from where you live.  The active traveler to the area will always find plenty to do and see in the Alpine region, whether it's hiking, biking, skiing, or riding cable cars.  Here are some of the spot sites to see in Garmisch-Partenkirchen as well as a YouTube video I found that I really like because it shows some of my favorite restaurants and places to visit in the area. 1. Zugspitze: Germany's Highest Mountain Peak The 2,962-meter-tall Zugspitze, Germany's tallest mountain, is one of the biggest draws to this corner of Bavaria. Winter is the peak's busiest season, as skiers from across Europe converge to enjoy the mountain's challenging runs and dramatic scenery. The Zugspitze comes to life with hiking boots during the summer, as outdoor enthusiasts visit the summit and the Zugspitzplatt, a plateau known for its caves and glaciers. A cog railway ascends the mountain, and the Zugspitze-Round-Trip ticket includes rides on the  Gletscherbahn cable car and the Cable car Zugspitze for a complete mountain experience. You can board the cog railway near the Garmisch main train station in a new terminal building or at various stops along the route. Official site: https://zugspitze.de/en 2. Winter Games: Legacy of the Olympic Games In addition to earning Garmisch-Partenkirchen its place as one of Europe's premier winter sports destinations, the 1936 Winter Olympics left a lasting impression on the town. Many of the colorful chalets and buildings in the community were built for the event and remain standing to this day. A notable example is the Olympic Ski Stadium on Gudiberg, easily distinguished by the ski-jump and used for both international and local contests. Ice skating enthusiasts can showcase their skills at the same venue as the 1936 Winter Olympics. The ice rink is open today for curling, hockey, public skating, and for dance lessons as well, whether speed skating or conventional choreography. Sadly, the dedicated curling rink is no more due to not having enough members in the club, which is sad since a Garmisch team led by my friend Andrea Schöpp won an Olympic Gold Medal and two world championships.  Visitors can also take advantage of several outdoor rinks and frozen lakes during the winter as well as a variation of curling called Eisstock. A network of ski lifts and pistes extends from the valley floor to the Zugspitze and other peaks, providing downhill and Nordic skiing opportunities for all levels. The Olympiaschanze, the ski jump used in the 1936 Winter Olympics, is another historic landmark. At a small museum, you can find out more about the sport and tour the jump; you might even see an event or practice session taking place there. 3. Partnachklamm: The Partnach Gorge The wild and romantic Partnachklamm, the Partnach Gorge, is located three kilometers southeast of Garmisch-Partenkirchen near the Olympic ski jumps. Located on the River Partnach, this dramatic gorge is 702 meters long and reaches a depth of more than 80 meters. Winter brings additional beauty in the guise of massive ice formations that cling to the cliff faces. Pro-Tip: Save on admission if you arrive before 8:00 AM Höllentalklamm, just six kilometers southwest of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, is another noteworthy gorge. There are a number of excellent trails that lead to and around the summit (1,045 meters), including one that can be followed through numerous tunnels and over bridges to the end of the gorge. 4. AlpspiX AlpspiX became one of Garmisch-Partenkirchen's most popular attractions very soon after it opened.  The AlpspiX features two steel beams that cross each other in an X formation, which cantilevers from the edge of a cliff about 1,000 meters above the ground. It's a panorama of peaks all around, including the Zugspitze, Waxensteine, and the Alpspitze north face. The broad Höllental Valley and Garmisch-Partenkirchen can be seen below. The platform is free, but you have to pay to ride the Alpspitzebahn to the top station, where the AlpspiX is located. There are several walking trails here, including one that leads along the Genuss-Erlebnisweg between the top of the Alpspitzebahn lifts and the top of the Kreuzeckbahn lifts. In the summer I often go up the AlpspiX as the gondola is about 10 minutes away from my house via bike. I generally only go up the Zugspitze when I have visitors from out of town. 5. The King's House Hike From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you can hike three hours each way to the King's House in Schachen, the exquisite hunting lodge of King Ludwig II (the king opposed hunting, but that was the accepted name for country retreats like this). A relatively small wooden palace, Schachen Alp was built between 1869 and 1872 and was the favorite birthday place of the king. Among its highlights are its five lower-level living rooms with their exquisite wood paneling, and the magnificent Turkish Hall, with its stained glass windows, rich hardwood floors and antique furnishings. Embroideries and candelabras. The views, the incongruity of the opulent Turkish Hall amid such remote surroundings and the informative guided tours make it worth the long hike. Official site: www.schloesser.bayern.de/englisch/palace/objects/schachen.htm 6. Mountain Gondolas The best way to maximize your sightseeing and hiking high above Garmisch-Partenkirchen is to use of the town's fantastic network of Gondolas and summit lifts. Garmisch's Hausbergbahn Gondola ascends 1,338 meters up the Hausberghöhe, where the Kreuzwanklbahn continues to the Kreuzwankln at 1,550 meters. Another popular route is via the Kreuzeckbahn, which travels from Garmisch up the Kreuzeck at 1,650 meters and has fine views, particularly of the nearby Alpspitze. Additionally, visitors to Partenkirchen have access to an excellent ski lift network. The Wankbahn Cableway runs from Partenkirchen some 3,000 meters to an upper station on the Wank at 1,755 meters. Views of the Garmisch basin can be had from the summit, which rises to 1,780 meters. The Eckbauerbahn gondola rises from the Olympic Ski Stadium up the Eckbauerhöhe at 1,236 meters and also has fine panoramic views. It is somewhat sad that they modernized this gondola two years ago. The other one was just a 2 passenger one that was probably built in the 1950s, it was quite interesting to ride in it. The Graseckbahn leads from the entrance to the Partnachklamm, which consists of gorges and rivers, to the Alpenhotel Forsthaus Graseck at 903 meters. 7. Ludwigstrasse and Historic Partenkirchen Located between the river Partnach and the Wank mountains, Partenkirchen is the easternmost borough of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. There are traditional houses lining Ludwigstrasse with geranium-filled window boxes and beautifully painted facades. Although the house fronts are only one-dimensional, trompe l'oeil paintings give the illusion of carved scrolls around the windows and doors. While taking a stroll here, you can admire the balconies made from carved wood and the elaborate brass and gold signage on the buildings, shops, and gasthofs. The town's small flower-filled squares are punctuated with fountains, and for those dining outside, you might hear a local band playing Bavarian music. The steps leading to lovely views are at the end of the street leading to nice views. 8. Grainau and the Eibsee A rolling park-like landscape surrounds Grainau, a village southeast of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The biggest attraction in Grainau is the picturesque church and graveyard. There's also the Eibsee, from which you can see the Waxenstein and Riffelwand on the Zugspitze. In the clear waters of the Eibsee, you can watch fish swim far below the surface. Around the lake, there are benches and picturesque picnic spots to enjoy a stroll. Ice skating is popular on the lake in the winter. Any time of year, it's one of the prettiest scenes you'll ever see in Bavaria, enhanced even further by its alpine homes and lovely old church with mountain backdrops. 9. Michael-Ende Kurpark As Garmisch is located on the banks of the Loisach, a 114-kilometer river flowing from Austria, it is picturesque with its old houses, especially in the Frühlingstrasse. The stroll through this small community leads you to the Kongresshaus, the community center set in the Michael-Ende Kurpark, named for Germany's most famous storyteller of the 20th century (Ende wrote The Neverending Story). I was never much of a park person but I do enjoy grabbing a ice cream cone in a local shop and sitting in the park to enjoy it. There is one spot in the park with a small water wheel which if you are seeking some solitude and meditation time makes for a great spot. There are many places in the park for visitors to become one with nature, including soft mossy paths and smooth stone pathways. Children love climbing on the whimsical turf and stone turtle and tackling the turf maze. There are flower beds, pools, and many places to sit and enjoy the surroundings here. There is also a display of models of old buildings in the town with their ages and a description of what they were. You can then seek out these buildings as you walk around the town.   10. Franziskanerkloster St. Anton You can recognize the onion-domed pilgrimage church St. Anton from a short walk above Partenkirchen. Inside the dome is a beautiful fresco by Johann Evangelist Holzer, and the late Baroque/Rococo church also contains wall paintings and carved wooden pews. Several memorials stand outside the church for the local men killed in the two World Wars, mostly in the Russian campaigns of  World War II. A couple of other churches worth visiting are the New Parish Church, St. Martin's, built in 1733 with a rich Baroque interior, as well as the Gothic wall paintings of the Alte Pfarrkirche (Old Parish Church). 11. Richard Strauss Villa and Festival Richard Strauss also lived and worked in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for 40 years. Dedicated today to the composer and conductor who lived and died in Garmisch, his lovely 1908 villa is a museum and memorial. Due to its picturesque oriel tower and two-story structure, the two-story building is quite charming in its own right and has a pleasing stone and plaster facade. Strauss's name was also given to the town's public square. You may want to time your visit to coincide with the annual Richard Strauss Festival in early June. The five-day extravaganza includes orchestral and chamber concerts, vocal, and piano recitals, as well as lectures pertaining to the town's most famous resident. 12. Werdenfels Regional Museum A 17th-century former merchant's house houses this fascinating little museum on Ludwigstrasse in Partenkirchen opened in 1895. The museum's holdings include local archaeological finds (Garmisch-Partenkirchen lies along an ancient trade route) and artifacts, religious artifacts, carnival masks, and folk art, as well as antique furnishings. Some excellent bauernmalerei paintings can also be found there, the traditional folk art paintings on furniture. On display are many exhibits related to the region's history, such as the 700-year-long period when it was an independent state until 1802. Request an English brochure. Where to Stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for Sightseeing In the center of town, around the train station (bahnhof), you'll discover a wide variety of hotel options for all budgets from hostels to five-star hotels. It is easy to get to all popular tourist attractions, including the train station for the Zugspitze and the summit of several mountain tramways, using the local bus system. Here are some highly rated hotels in Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Luxury Hotels: The Bavarian-style Hotel Edelweiss offers free breakfasts with cooked-to-order dishes, a swimming pool, a balcony overlooking the Alps, and a central location near the center and mountain trails. Do not confuse this with the Edelweiss lodge which is where military personnel and their families can enjoy some R and R. Staudacherhof Hotel offers an outdoor pool and spa with a sauna, a few minutes' walk from Garmisch's old town and around the corner from my house. A beautiful Bavarian-style building in the center of town with flower-decked balconies, Hotel Zugspitze has a pool, sauna, spa, free breakfast, and in-room machines with fresh-ground coffee. Mid-Range Hotels: Obermuehle 4*S Boutique Resort offers a wellness center, a pool, free breakfast, battery-powered e-bikes, and a free shuttle service to and from the bus station, ski lifts, and local attractions.  With Alpine views from its balconies, Hotel Rheinischer Hof offers free bus passes and is a short walk from the center of town. A family-run hotel with a rich history and old-world charm, Reindl's Partenkirchner Hof has a pool, sauna, free breakfast, and large rooms with views. Budget Hotels: Located in Garmisch's center, the chalet-style Hotel Almenrausch und Edelweiss offers free breakfast as well as beautifully decorated rooms. In the pedestrian zone, Atlas Posthotel has rooms in the main building and apartments in an annex.  With sweeping views of Zugspitze and other mountains, Mercure Hotel Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a five-minute walk from the village center although it is a little uphill. Dining and Drinking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen One thing Garmisch-Partenkirchen is not short of is great places to eat and drink. The list below barely touches the surface of the places. Breakfast: Hobi`s Backstube is a great place if you want a really light breakfast so that you can partake in a larger lunch later in the day. Hobi's has an amazing selection of bread, tasty coffee and is famous for its fresh coconuts. Located on Zugspitzstrasse. Pano: Pano is one of my favorite places for a healthy breakfast or brunch made with fresh ingredients. They also have some incredible coffee. Personally, I love the Acai bowls and the bread with different flavored cream cheeses. It is also one of the only places in town to get a traditional American-style iced coffee. In Germany, if you order iced coffee you normally get coffee with ice cream in it. Located at the Mohrenplatz in the pedestrian area.  Lunch:  If going up the mountain on any of the lifts or the Zugspitze dining at any of the mountain top lodges is highly recommended. I really don’t have a favorite one.  But for other choices in town:   Berggasthof Almhuette: Simply known as the Almhette.The Almhutte as a nice beer garden with great views and great desserts. The Windbeutel (Giant Cream Puff) is picture-postcard perfect. Maria’s Grillstube: In Partenkirchen. If you want fancy and nice this isn’t it. This is just downright good chicken and fries at an affordable price. Bungalow 7: Pub-style food with a nice patio. Bungalow 7 is also one of my favorite places to hit up for drinks in the evening. English is no problem here and the food and friendly staff make it a hidden gem. Dinner:   Ristorante da Enzo: Why am I recommending Enzo's, an Italian restaurant in Germany? Well, Garmisch has some outstanding Italian restaurants. While Pizzeria Peperoncino is more affordable (and good), and La Baita is many of the locals' favorites I really love Enzo’s. It is an intimate restaurant that still isn’t too expensive but great for a romantic dinner. Zum Wildschuetz: No restaurant list in Garmisch-Partenkirchen could be complete without listing Zum Wildschuetz. It is a quintessential Bavarian restaurant that features wild game on the menu. Reservations are highly recommended.   Schützenhaus: Schützenhaus is also a traditional Bavarian restaurant located in Partenkirchen. It is a little larger than Zum Wildschutz so may be easier to get into. There is a slight uphill walk to get there or you can take the bus or a taxi if uphill walks aren’t in the cards for you. Nightlife:   While Garmisch-Partenkirchen may be a small town we also have some nice little bars to go to at night.    Bei Vera: Formerly Vera und Josef’s but was sold after Josef passed away. Nothing fancy, just a good small old-fashioned locals bar. Pub 33: Pub 33 is a local pub with an old-school vibe offering cocktails, German beers, sandwiches & darts. Many young Americans who work at the American base Edelweiss Lodge hang out here. We don't have Taco Bell's or Jack in the Box here so if you want a late bar type snack this is THE place to go. The Irish Pub: Another good Expat bar located in Partenkirchen. The Irish Pub actually show American football games here. No food, just-drinks. I generally hit it later at night as it is opened later than many other bars. The Local Cure: Another Irish bar but this one in Garmisch. The Local Cure has decent burgers and one of the only places you can get an IPA at. Peaches: Everyone who visits Garmisch and is out at night seems to go to Peaches. Not my favorite place to drink at (just personal preference) but they do have a good burger deal on Wednesdays, and an outdoor party-building set up for when the Skiing World Cup races are in town for a festive Apres-Ski party vibe. Peaches made the news last year during the early stages of the Corona Virus when an American girl working in Garmisch became a super spreader when she went to Peaches (and other Garmisch bars) and spread the virus around to over 30 people.   You may also be interested in  https://europeantravel.blog/neuschwanstein-castles-secrets/   Read the full article