Europe Archives - Plan to Explore https://plantoexplore.com/category/destinations/europe/ Your Resource for Easy Travel Tips Sat, 18 Oct 2025 03:54:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://plantoexplore.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-P-1-32x32.png Europe Archives - Plan to Explore https://plantoexplore.com/category/destinations/europe/ 32 32 Southern Poland Travel Guide You Won’t Want to Miss https://plantoexplore.com/southern-poland-travel-guide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=southern-poland-travel-guide https://plantoexplore.com/southern-poland-travel-guide/#respond Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:33:44 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=4034 What a pleasant surprise it was to visit Southern Poland! I’ve traveled quite a bit in Europe, and really enjoyed the beauty and balance of this area. If you are looking for a Southern Poland Travel Guide or just want to learn a little more about the area, keep reading my recap and Poland tips below!  Getting to Southern Poland Airport Of course getting to Poland varies greatly depending on your country of origin. We traveled from the US, so that means we arrived at Aéroport International Jean-Paul II de Cracovie-Balice, outside of Kraków.  From the airport, we decided to take a taxi, which typically costs between 45-55 zł at the time of writing (12-15 USD), and took around 20 minutes. We prefer a door-to-door option when dealing with jet lag after an overnight flight.  Make sure to ask for the cost before getting in the taxi!  Here are some other options to consider when transiting from the airport to the city:  Train – From the airport to Kraków Główny in the city center, it takes around 15-18 minutes and costs 10 zł – 13 zł (2-3 USD). You can purchase tickets from ticket machines at the terminal or from the train conductor.  Bus – From the airport, catch bus 300 during the day, and 902 at night. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs 4 zł to 35 zł (2-10 USD). You can purchase tickets at ticket machines. Don’t forget to validate your ticket on the bus! If you are looking for a way to SAVE on flights, look no further than Going! I have personally been a customer since 2018 and even booked a flight to Madrid for $400 round trip!  They offer free memberships for domestic flight deals, and paid for international flights and mistake fares. I promise they will save you money! Click here to sign up.  Train Kraków Główny is the main train station in Krakow. After arriving at the station, here are your options to get to the main Old Town area.  Walk – The station is just 1.6 km or 1 mile from the center. Look for signs that say Stare Miasto.  Taxi/Uber/Bolt – There is a designated taxi stand you can use, or you can order an Uber or Bolt to pick you up. I like the later as you can enter in your exact address without having to attmept to translate, especially if its more obscure.  Tram/Bus – You can purchase tickets from the KMK machines for either. Make sure to look up routes that are offered and choose one that takes you closest to your preferred destination.  When to Visit Southern Poland I personally prefer warmer weather, which is why we chose to visit in late May. I really enjoyed this time our year in Poland. Flowers were blooming, the weather was warm but not too hot. I could definitely see it getting a lot hotter in July and August.  My recommendation would be to visit in either May, June, September or October, unless you enjoy colder weather.  Do keep in mind that many accommodations do not offer A/C, and ours did not. We found that it cooled off enough at night that we could have the windows open and it was not a big issue.  Areas in Southern Poland to Visit Schindler’s Passage – Krakow, Poland Poland is a fairly large country! If you compared it to a US state, it’s close in size to New Mexico, and would be 3/4 as big as Texas.  We chose to visit Krakow and a mountain town called Zakopane. Both were truly lovely, one being a city, and the other focusing on the outdoors.  Here are some great Southern Poland places to visit:  Kraków – The hub of the area, it is one of my favorite European cities. We found it to be exciting, but also laid back, plenty to do, but not completely overrun with people. If you are traversing between Stare Maisto and Kazimierz it’s very easy to walk everywhere. It is relatively affordable compared to the rest of Europe. Highlights included Kazimierz and both Jewish cemeteries, Rynek Underground Museum, Market Square, and Wawel Castle.  Zakopane – We did not realize how popular of a vacation destination Zakopane was for Polish, as well as visitors from Europe. We were the only Americans (that we saw at the time). This town has two main seasons, winter for skiing and summer for hiking/outdoor activities. There is a bustling, albeit a little touristy main area with lots of shopping a restaurants. Just a street or two away and you are back to quiet. Highlights included the Kasprowy Wierch cable car to the top of the mountain (complete with a restaurant with decent food and a beer or hot chocolate),  The Tatra Musuem, and just walking or hiking out in nature.  Wrocław – We didn’t make it to this city, but I have heard really great things about it. You can hunt for bronze dwarf statues, visit museums, wander the market square, and more. This is definitely a less traveresed city, maybe even a hidden gem when visiting Poland.  Kraków, Poland Top Areas to stay in Kraków, Poland Stare Miastro – If you want to be in the middle of it all, staying in Old Town might be for you. Everything will be just steps away and easy to get to. This area is definitely the busiest and can be a bit louder. I recommended finding accommodations down a side street for a more calm and quite experience.  Kazimierz  – This is the Jewish Quarter of Kraków, which is essential to visit when in the city. It tends to be a bit quieter and there a more up and coming restaurants. We stayed in this area and really enjoyed the slower pace and vibe, with old town just a 5-10 minute walk away.  Top Things To Do in Kraków, Poland Wawel Castle The Armory at Wawel Castle Krakow has a lot of interesting things to see and do. You’ll definitely want to save some of these ideas for your Southern Poland Travel.  Market Square (Rynek Główny) – An obvious stop in any European city, the main square. Filled with beautiful buildings, shops, an underground museum and lots of pigeons – this square offers a lot to do. The underground musuem was a highlight, and offers a glimpse into past centuries where they sold goods in this same area. Ruins of stalls past are featured buried beneath what is now today’s square.  Wawel Castle – Another European must-do, this castle is more like a large complex. We liked the option to buy entrance to only the sections that interest you most. We chose the Armory (I should say our 7 year old chose it), and it was a great place to wander and see all centuries of weapons and suits or armor. Barbikan & Park Ring – Where old fortress walls stood, there is now a park that encircles all of old town. It is such a lovely shaded area to stroll or sit on a bench for some rest after walking all day. At the north end of Old Town, there is an old Barbican that is neat to see.  Old & New Jewish Cemeteries – Poland has a long Jewish history, that includes a dark time when it comes to the Holocaust. The old Jewish cemetery dates back to as far as 500 AD, there is an entrance fee, but we were luckily enough to be able to see the whole things from our AirBnb window! The New Jewish cemetary has a very dark history, as it is where many were taken for their last moments. Extremely large, it’s a place to stroll, pay respects and reflect.  Pinball Museum – An off the beaten path suggestion, this Pinball arcade allows a one time entry fee with all you can play pinball for an hour. This was a nice stop and activity that didn’t involve history or excessive walking.  Have you checked out Viator for guided tours? I love a tour to learn more about history, eat local foods, or to catch a boat on a local river or canal. Click here to search for tours in Poland! Old Jewish Cemetery, Kazimierz (this was the view from our Airbnb! We thought it was really cool, but may not be to others) Where & What to Eat in Kraków Polish food is honestly delicious. I’ve been to several countries in what might be considered Eastern Europe and this was my favorite. Pierogies – need I say more?! What To Eat in Southern Poland Polish food is a hearty cuisine, but I found it to also be fresh and delicious. Here are some Polish foods you need to try when you visit the country:  Pierogies – these dumpling-like and are typically either filled with meat or potato, and sometimes even fruits. You can get them boiled or crispy, and they are often served with sour cream. Honestly delightful.  Bigos – A stew that consists of meat and slighty sour cabbage may not sound great at first, but I found it to be really delicious.  Placki Ziemniaczane – Potato pancakes, you’ll find these served a long side of foods, or even as a part of a main dish with stewed meat over top. I had the later and it was amazing.  Golabki – The Polish version of cabbage rolls, I enjoyed these. Cabbage leaves stuffed with meat, typically pork and stewed for hours. You’ll also find cabbage rolls in Hungary and Romania.  Zupa Grzybowa – A surprise favorite, this is a lightly creamy mushroom soup with small noodles in it. My son loved it so much I had to find a recipe to attempt it at home!  Zapiekanka – An open faced french bread street food topped with cheese and a variety of other items. A must try, especially after a beer or night out. Similar to the US french bread pizza, but with much more unique toppings!  Paczki – Amazing fresh made donuts thaty typically have a filling. We tried the apple filled version and it was a hit with that whole family. Definitely a must try, and there are grab and go store fronts all over the city selling them.  There is so much more to try, this is just a sample of our favorite items!  Where to Eat in Kraków Kuchnia u Doroty There are a lot of options for where to eat in Kraków, Poland. Below are the places we ended up trying, a whether or not we would go back!  Kuchnia u Doroty – A family favorite for us! They offer a wide variety of Polish foods and all of it was fresh and delicious. Make a reservation for this restaurant as it books up quickly!  Nowy Kraftowy – A great laid-back spot for pizza & burgers. This is actually a craft beer location as well. The food was great here.  Jewish Square (Plac Nowy) – This is the best place to try Zapiekanka, with several stalls selling it.  The Leaky Cauldron – I would call this place touristy, with Harry Potter decor and drinks that have dried ice to create smoke. Since we had a child with us, it was a fun stop for a break and a drink. I would not recommend the food here.  Zakopane, Poland Zakopane was an easy 3 hour train ride from Krakow, and is a very inviting and lovely skiing or summer hiking spot.  What You Need to Know about Zakopane in Southern Poland Zakopane is well known and visited by the Polish and by other Europeans. The main shopping street can get quite busy and I have seen some negative comments about visiting because of this.  I would not call it a hidden gem mountain town, but I still think it’s worth a visit as you can arrive by train and don’t necessarily need a car, and just a street or two off...

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What a pleasant surprise it was to visit Southern Poland! I’ve traveled quite a bit in Europe, and really enjoyed the beauty and balance of this area. If you are looking for a Southern Poland Travel Guide or just want to learn a little more about the area, keep reading my recap and Poland tips below! 

Getting to Southern Poland

Airport

Of course getting to Poland varies greatly depending on your country of origin. We traveled from the US, so that means we arrived at Aéroport International Jean-Paul II de Cracovie-Balice, outside of Kraków. 

From the airport, we decided to take a taxi, which typically costs between 45-55 zł at the time of writing (12-15 USD), and took around 20 minutes. We prefer a door-to-door option when dealing with jet lag after an overnight flight.  Make sure to ask for the cost before getting in the taxi! 

Here are some other options to consider when transiting from the airport to the city: 

Train – From the airport to Kraków Główny in the city center, it takes around 15-18 minutes and costs 10 zł – 13 zł (2-3 USD). You can purchase tickets from ticket machines at the terminal or from the train conductor. 

Bus – From the airport, catch bus 300 during the day, and 902 at night. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs 4 zł to 35 zł (2-10 USD). You can purchase tickets at ticket machines. Don’t forget to validate your ticket on the bus!

If you are looking for a way to SAVE on flights, look no further than Going! I have personally been a customer since 2018 and even booked a flight to Madrid for $400 round trip! 
They offer free memberships for domestic flight deals, and paid for international flights and mistake fares. I promise they will save you money! Click here to sign up. 
Train

Kraków Główny is the main train station in Krakow. After arriving at the station, here are your options to get to the main Old Town area. 

Walk – The station is just 1.6 km or 1 mile from the center. Look for signs that say Stare Miasto. 

Taxi/Uber/Bolt – There is a designated taxi stand you can use, or you can order an Uber or Bolt to pick you up. I like the later as you can enter in your exact address without having to attmept to translate, especially if its more obscure. 

Tram/Bus – You can purchase tickets from the KMK machines for either. Make sure to look up routes that are offered and choose one that takes you closest to your preferred destination. 

When to Visit Southern Poland

I personally prefer warmer weather, which is why we chose to visit in late May. I really enjoyed this time our year in Poland. Flowers were blooming, the weather was warm but not too hot. I could definitely see it getting a lot hotter in July and August. 

My recommendation would be to visit in either May, June, September or October, unless you enjoy colder weather. 

Do keep in mind that many accommodations do not offer A/C, and ours did not. We found that it cooled off enough at night that we could have the windows open and it was not a big issue. 

Areas in Southern Poland to Visit

Schindler's Passage - Krakow, Poland

Poland is a fairly large country! If you compared it to a US state, it’s close in size to New Mexico, and would be 3/4 as big as Texas. 

We chose to visit Krakow and a mountain town called Zakopane. Both were truly lovely, one being a city, and the other focusing on the outdoors. 

Here are some great Southern Poland places to visit: 

Kraków – The hub of the area, it is one of my favorite European cities. We found it to be exciting, but also laid back, plenty to do, but not completely overrun with people. If you are traversing between Stare Maisto and Kazimierz it’s very easy to walk everywhere. It is relatively affordable compared to the rest of Europe. Highlights included Kazimierz and both Jewish cemeteries, Rynek Underground Museum, Market Square, and Wawel Castle. 

Zakopane – We did not realize how popular of a vacation destination Zakopane was for Polish, as well as visitors from Europe. We were the only Americans (that we saw at the time). This town has two main seasons, winter for skiing and summer for hiking/outdoor activities. There is a bustling, albeit a little touristy main area with lots of shopping a restaurants. Just a street or two away and you are back to quiet. Highlights included the Kasprowy Wierch cable car to the top of the mountain (complete with a restaurant with decent food and a beer or hot chocolate),  The Tatra Musuem, and just walking or hiking out in nature. 

Wrocław – We didn’t make it to this city, but I have heard really great things about it. You can hunt for bronze dwarf statues, visit museums, wander the market square, and more. This is definitely a less traveresed city, maybe even a hidden gem when visiting Poland. 

Kraków, Poland

Market Square in Krakow Poland

Top Areas to stay in Kraków, Poland

Stare Miastro – If you want to be in the middle of it all, staying in Old Town might be for you. Everything will be just steps away and easy to get to. This area is definitely the busiest and can be a bit louder. I recommended finding accommodations down a side street for a more calm and quite experience. 

Kazimierz  – This is the Jewish Quarter of Kraków, which is essential to visit when in the city. It tends to be a bit quieter and there a more up and coming restaurants. We stayed in this area and really enjoyed the slower pace and vibe, with old town just a 5-10 minute walk away. 

Top Things To Do in Kraków, Poland

Wawel Castle
The Armory at Wawel Castle

Krakow has a lot of interesting things to see and do. You’ll definitely want to save some of these ideas for your Southern Poland Travel. 

Market Square (Rynek Główny) – An obvious stop in any European city, the main square. Filled with beautiful buildings, shops, an underground museum and lots of pigeons – this square offers a lot to do. The underground musuem was a highlight, and offers a glimpse into past centuries where they sold goods in this same area. Ruins of stalls past are featured buried beneath what is now today’s square. 

Wawel Castle – Another European must-do, this castle is more like a large complex. We liked the option to buy entrance to only the sections that interest you most. We chose the Armory (I should say our 7 year old chose it), and it was a great place to wander and see all centuries of weapons and suits or armor.

Barbikan & Park Ring – Where old fortress walls stood, there is now a park that encircles all of old town. It is such a lovely shaded area to stroll or sit on a bench for some rest after walking all day. At the north end of Old Town, there is an old Barbican that is neat to see. 

Old & New Jewish Cemeteries – Poland has a long Jewish history, that includes a dark time when it comes to the Holocaust. The old Jewish cemetery dates back to as far as 500 AD, there is an entrance fee, but we were luckily enough to be able to see the whole things from our AirBnb window! The New Jewish cemetary has a very dark history, as it is where many were taken for their last moments. Extremely large, it’s a place to stroll, pay respects and reflect. 

Pinball Museum – An off the beaten path suggestion, this Pinball arcade allows a one time entry fee with all you can play pinball for an hour. This was a nice stop and activity that didn’t involve history or excessive walking. 

Have you checked out Viator for guided tours? I love a tour to learn more about history, eat local foods, or to catch a boat on a local river or canal. Click here to search for tours in Poland!
Old Jewish Cemetery, Kazimierz (this was the view from our Airbnb! We thought it was really cool, but may not be to others)

Where & What to Eat in Kraków

Polish food is honestly delicious. I’ve been to several countries in what might be considered Eastern Europe and this was my favorite. Pierogies – need I say more?!

What To Eat in Southern Poland

Polish food is a hearty cuisine, but I found it to also be fresh and delicious. Here are some Polish foods you need to try when you visit the country: 

Pierogies – these dumpling-like and are typically either filled with meat or potato, and sometimes even fruits. You can get them boiled or crispy, and they are often served with sour cream. Honestly delightful. 

Bigos – A stew that consists of meat and slighty sour cabbage may not sound great at first, but I found it to be really delicious. 

Placki Ziemniaczane – Potato pancakes, you’ll find these served a long side of foods, or even as a part of a main dish with stewed meat over top. I had the later and it was amazing. 

Golabki – The Polish version of cabbage rolls, I enjoyed these. Cabbage leaves stuffed with meat, typically pork and stewed for hours. You’ll also find cabbage rolls in Hungary and Romania. 

Zupa Grzybowa – A surprise favorite, this is a lightly creamy mushroom soup with small noodles in it. My son loved it so much I had to find a recipe to attempt it at home! 

Zapiekanka – An open faced french bread street food topped with cheese and a variety of other items. A must try, especially after a beer or night out. Similar to the US french bread pizza, but with much more unique toppings! 

Paczki – Amazing fresh made donuts thaty typically have a filling. We tried the apple filled version and it was a hit with that whole family. Definitely a must try, and there are grab and go store fronts all over the city selling them. 

There is so much more to try, this is just a sample of our favorite items! 

Where to Eat in Kraków
Stewed meat and potaot pancakes in Krakow Poland
Kuchnia u Doroty

There are a lot of options for where to eat in Kraków, Poland. Below are the places we ended up trying, a whether or not we would go back! 

Kuchnia u Doroty – A family favorite for us! They offer a wide variety of Polish foods and all of it was fresh and delicious. Make a reservation for this restaurant as it books up quickly! 

Nowy Kraftowy – A great laid-back spot for pizza & burgers. This is actually a craft beer location as well. The food was great here. 

Jewish Square (Plac Nowy) – This is the best place to try Zapiekanka, with several stalls selling it. 

The Leaky Cauldron – I would call this place touristy, with Harry Potter decor and drinks that have dried ice to create smoke. Since we had a child with us, it was a fun stop for a break and a drink. I would not recommend the food here. 

Zakopane, Poland

Mountain Hut in Souther Poland

Zakopane was an easy 3 hour train ride from Krakow, and is a very inviting and lovely skiing or summer hiking spot. 

What You Need to Know about Zakopane in Southern Poland

Zakopane is well known and visited by the Polish and by other Europeans. The main shopping street can get quite busy and I have seen some negative comments about visiting because of this. 

I would not call it a hidden gem mountain town, but I still think it’s worth a visit as you can arrive by train and don’t necessarily need a car, and just a street or two off the main area it is quiet and full of nature. 

Another plus of if being a little more developed is that there are more things to do in the area besides just nature activities. 

It may just be me, but I love to research and plan for my upcoming travel (might be a little too obsessed). TripAdvisor has been a go-to for me to search for reviews on experiences, hotels, things to do, and more! You might even see a few reviews floating around on there that I have submitted myself. 🙂 
Click to check out all of the great information TripAdvisor has to offer! 

Where to Stay In Zakopane

There are a lot of options for accommodations in Zakopane! My top recommendation would be to pull up Google Maps and click to filter by hotels. There are so many villas to choose from in the area. I would narrow down the options by your needs in an accommodation, proximity to what you want to do there and reviews. 

We chose to stay within walking distance of the main area, but far enough away to have a peaceful and quiet stay. We also really wanted a view of the mountains and were not disappointed. 

SERCE TATR Residence Zakopane – This is where we chose to stay and it was a great choice! A small accommodation with just 12 rooms, we chose a small suite that had a bedroom, loft, small kitchenette and a balcony with a mountain view. Breakfast was included and is served buffet style every morning. My son especially loved the selection of cookies that rotated and was available all day. 

Top Things To Do in Summer in Zakopane

This are offers a lot of options for things to do. We were able to fill 3 full days, and could have stayed for longer. Here are some top Zakopane, Poland things to do: 

Gubałówka – ride a funicular up to the top of this ridge to find tons of souvenir stall shopping, an alpine coaster, cows in meadows and food options. Highly recommend bringing cash for the vendors as card is not accepted. Pro Tip – Buy your ticket for the funicular at a machine after walking under the tunnel from Krupowki street to skip the line at the ticket office. 

Kasprowy Wierch Mountain Top and Cable Car – The highlight of our trip to Zakopane. The views from both the cable car and the top are amazing. There is a cafeteria style cafe at the top and they food was pretty good. My husband and son walked up higher to the peak of the mountain as well. Pro Tips: Bring a jacket! It was very cold at the top even in late May. The walk to the ticket office to get on the gondola through a park was very long. I recommend taking a taxi from the center and having them drop you off within the park area below. 

Krupowki Street – Touristy, but still fun to walk around and grab some food. Definitely do your research before selecting a place to eat, and for dinner reservations are recommended. My son loved all the swinging chairs with fuzzy blankets as a place to rest with a snack and a drink. 

The Tatra Museum – A great place to learn about the history of this particular area, customs, and early settlers. Some of the exhibits are interactive, and there were 3 floors of history to explore. There was a special exhibit at the time showcasing Polish garments which was especially neat. 

 

View from Gubalowka, Zakopane, Poland
Gubałówka

Did I miss any important Southern Poland locations or tips? Let me know in the comments!

I know there is more to Southern Poland than just these places, and I would go back to visit again in a heartbeat! I hope you plan a trip to explore Southern Poland on your next European adventure. 

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you! 

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]]> https://plantoexplore.com/southern-poland-travel-guide/feed/ 0 Tips to Master Your Trip to Madrid Spain with Kids https://plantoexplore.com/madrid-spain-with-kids/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=madrid-spain-with-kids https://plantoexplore.com/madrid-spain-with-kids/#respond Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:10:13 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=3879 Looking for tips to help you plan your trip to Madrid, Spain with kids? My family spent a week in Madrid and we have some tops tips to share with you!  Madrid is a large city with plenty to do so it can be a little overwhelming to come up with a plan, especially when kids are in tow. Below you’ll find recommendations on where to stay in Madrid, things to do in Madrid, how to get around with kids, and more!  Getting to and from Madrid, Spain Luckily it shouldn’t be too hard to get to Madrid as it has a major international airport and multiple train stations.  Airport  There are multiple ways to get to and from the airport including train, bus, taxi, and ride share. My personal recommendation when traveling with kids is to take the easy route, especially if you are arriving after a long haul flight. Taxis are considered public transit in Madrid, so kids can ride in one without any restrictions. You can bring your own carseat or just buckle them in – whatever works for your child’s age or weight.  If you prefer to take public transit there are You Tube videos that detail out the process. Taking the train would have involved a transfer, and the bus would have included a 1km walk to our specific hotel. I recommended checking out this video from Road Trip Spain and Portugal as a good explanation of the options for you to decide.  Train  The two main stations you might arrive in when you get to Madrid are Atocha or Camartin. You’ll find convenient metro stations close to or within the train station that can get you to all corners of the city.  Need a place to store your luggage when you arrive or before you leave? Check out Luggage Hero! With locations throughout the city, you can find a place to easily leave your luggage with a local retailer. Where to Stay in Madrid, Spain Type of Accommodations I have a specific formula I like to use when I travel to a new country or big city, especially when you are there for many days. First, start your trip at a hotel. It’s easy for taxi drivers to find, they can give you recommendations, have extra amenities and sometimes breakfast. I find settling in to a city at a hotel a good way to start.  Once we have recovered from jet lag and want to stretch out a bit we typically move over to an Airbnb when traveling with our kiddo. Everyone can have their own room, there are kitchen facilities to cut down on costs of eating out, and it’s a more laid-back vibe.    Areas to Stay in Madrid There are so many areas to choose from! Below are the top central neighborhoods where you’ll find lots to do, walkability, and plenty to eat and drink.  Gran Via – The grand shopping street in Madrid! With beautiful buildings and plenty of hotel options this is an easy option. You’ll find this area to be pretty busy and touristy, but the buildings are truly grand and beautiful here. We split our trip between 2 areas, this being our first location.  Lavapies  – With a more local vibe, lots of interesting restaurants and great walkability, we really enjoyed Lavapies. This location is just south and still close to the center, but feels separated from the big tourist sites. This was the second area we stayed and liked it the most!  Sol – This is the true center of Madrid. We didn’t stay here, but if you want immediate access to everything, especially Plaza Mayor and Palacio, this could be a great option.  Chueca – Located directly north of Gran Via, this lively neighborhood is known as a welcoming area for all travelers. With a more hipster vibe you’ll find small boutiques, up and coming restaurants, and popular markets.  Gran Via, Madrid, Spain Things To Do in Madrid with Kids Now to the fun things to do in Madrid, Spain with kids around the city! There are so many options based on your kids ages, interests, and your budget. Below are a few places that we highly recommend based off of what we did with a 5 year old.  Naval Museum – one of the highlights of our trip! Located close to Retiro Park, this museum has hundreds of model ships from across centuries. It also showcases ship artifacts including glassware, weapons, tools, and giant figureheads. Entry is by donation and only costs about 3 Euros.  Retiro Park – An expansive park on the East side of town. There is a pond with boats you can rent, plenty of green space, and a beautiful glass building to explore (restrooms on the lower level of this building – free)  Retiro Park Plaza de Espana – this is a spacious square at the west end of Gran Via. There is an epic enclosed playscape in this square that our kiddo (who doesn’t love playscapes) enjoyed for at least an hour and could have stayed longer.  Rio Hotel Rooftop – adjacent to Plaza de Espana is a huge hotel with a rooftop, kid-friendly, bar/restaurant. Besides the amazing views, there is a glass floor you can wait in line to take your picture on. My boys were patient and brave enough to do it. The food and drinks are a bit more pricey, which is to be expected for a nice hotel and rooftop.  Palacio – Worth a visit for the vistas and beautiful buildings. For small kids I would skip the wait and tour of the inside. We enjoyed just wandering around and taking pictures.   Palacio – you can see the line of people waiting for entry! (and us taking pictures) Plaza Mayor – A must see in Madrid for the colorful buildings and wide open space. We were there at the start of the Christmas markets, so the square had decorations and market stalls.  Plaza Mayor What to Eat with Kids in Madrid, Spain We found Madrid to be kid-friendly at every restaurant. Kids are welcomed everywhere and treated as a normal part of society (none of the seen and not heard feeling here!) Some places had specific kids menu items, but even if they didn’t we are able to find foods our kiddo enjoyed.  Food Markets/Halls – Food Markets are plentiful in Madrid, Spain. You’ll find them in almost every neighborhood and offer a lot of variety. If the kids are not up for a sit down meal, this is a great choice for not only quick timing, but also plenty of choices.  Menu del dia – This lunch time 3 course meal is not only affordable, but typically comes with several choices. We found it ideal to take advantage of a bigger sit down lunch while our son still had the patience to do so. Traditional restaurants offer this all over the city and it typically consists of an appetizer, main course, and dessert. You’ll often find bread included as well. We asked our hotel staff for a local recommendations they would frequent!  Look for a chalkboard out front of restaurants advertising the menu del dia.  Want to protect your data while you’re traveling? I highly recommend Surfshark VPN, and have been using it now for years.  A VPN conceals your IP address so hackers cannot access any of your data. I use it in airports, at coffee shops, and even if I want to access a website I’m not sure about!  Click here to check it out!  Churros – Is there anything kids love more than a sweet treat? Churros are a must-have in Madrid. These fried dough sticks are cooked to perfetion and then dipped in a thick hot chocolate like sauce. I highly recommend getting both the churros (skinnier and crispy) and porras (thicker and softer) to try.  Just a heads up to those from the Americas – they are not covered in cinnamon and sugar here, which we really enjoyed.  Churros and Porras at Chocolat, Madrid, Spain Madrid, Spain Top Travel Tips Here are some top travel tips for Madrid, Spain with kids to wrap up my thoughts on the city.    Getting around Madrid – This is a very easy city to traverse.  Walkability – The main center is very walkable, and is mainly flat. We found it easy for our son to walk pretty decent distances.  Ride Share – You’ll find taxis, Uber, and Bolt very readily available. If you have not used Bolt, it is the European version of an Uber or Lyft and has a very easy to use app.  Public transit – As a major city in Spain, Madrid has excellent public transit. We found we didn’t need it much as we enjoyed walking even in the November temperatures. We did use it to link to the train station for a day trip to Toledo.  Using Spanish & English in Madrid – I highly recommend learning some basic phrases in Spanish before going to Madrid. I was surprised at how much I really needed to use it here. We did not encounter as many people who spoke English as we have in other major European cities.  I love to learn at least a few phrases in any local language where we travel to as I feel like its a courteous gesture to locals. In this case I needed more than just hello, please, and thank you. Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you!

The post Tips to Master Your Trip to Madrid Spain with Kids appeared first on Plan to Explore.

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Looking for tips to help you plan your trip to Madrid, Spain with kids? My family spent a week in Madrid and we have some tops tips to share with you! 

Madrid is a large city with plenty to do so it can be a little overwhelming to come up with a plan, especially when kids are in tow. Below you’ll find recommendations on where to stay in Madrid, things to do in Madrid, how to get around with kids, and more! 

Getting to and from Madrid, Spain

Luckily it shouldn’t be too hard to get to Madrid as it has a major international airport and multiple train stations. 

Airport 

There are multiple ways to get to and from the airport including train, bus, taxi, and ride share. My personal recommendation when traveling with kids is to take the easy route, especially if you are arriving after a long haul flight. Taxis are considered public transit in Madrid, so kids can ride in one without any restrictions. You can bring your own carseat or just buckle them in – whatever works for your child’s age or weight. 

If you prefer to take public transit there are You Tube videos that detail out the process. Taking the train would have involved a transfer, and the bus would have included a 1km walk to our specific hotel. I recommended checking out this video from Road Trip Spain and Portugal as a good explanation of the options for you to decide. 

Train 

The two main stations you might arrive in when you get to Madrid are Atocha or Camartin. You’ll find convenient metro stations close to or within the train station that can get you to all corners of the city. 

Need a place to store your luggage when you arrive or before you leave?

Check out Luggage Hero! With locations throughout the city, you can find a place to easily leave your luggage with a local retailer.

Where to Stay in Madrid, Spain

Type of Accommodations

I have a specific formula I like to use when I travel to a new country or big city, especially when you are there for many days. First, start your trip at a hotel. It’s easy for taxi drivers to find, they can give you recommendations, have extra amenities and sometimes breakfast. I find settling in to a city at a hotel a good way to start. 

Once we have recovered from jet lag and want to stretch out a bit we typically move over to an Airbnb when traveling with our kiddo. Everyone can have their own room, there are kitchen facilities to cut down on costs of eating out, and it’s a more laid-back vibe. 

 

Areas to Stay in Madrid

There are so many areas to choose from! Below are the top central neighborhoods where you’ll find lots to do, walkability, and plenty to eat and drink. 

  • Gran Via – The grand shopping street in Madrid! With beautiful buildings and plenty of hotel options this is an easy option. You’ll find this area to be pretty busy and touristy, but the buildings are truly grand and beautiful here. We split our trip between 2 areas, this being our first location. 
  • Lavapies  – With a more local vibe, lots of interesting restaurants and great walkability, we really enjoyed Lavapies. This location is just south and still close to the center, but feels separated from the big tourist sites. This was the second area we stayed and liked it the most! 
  • Sol – This is the true center of Madrid. We didn’t stay here, but if you want immediate access to everything, especially Plaza Mayor and Palacio, this could be a great option. 
  • Chueca – Located directly north of Gran Via, this lively neighborhood is known as a welcoming area for all travelers. With a more hipster vibe you’ll find small boutiques, up and coming restaurants, and popular markets. 
Gran Via, Madrid Spain, Plan to Explore
Gran Via, Madrid, Spain

Things To Do in Madrid with Kids

Now to the fun things to do in Madrid, Spain with kids around the city! There are so many options based on your kids ages, interests, and your budget. Below are a few places that we highly recommend based off of what we did with a 5 year old. 

  • Naval Museum – one of the highlights of our trip! Located close to Retiro Park, this museum has hundreds of model ships from across centuries. It also showcases ship artifacts including glassware, weapons, tools, and giant figureheads. Entry is by donation and only costs about 3 Euros. 
  • Retiro Park – An expansive park on the East side of town. There is a pond with boats you can rent, plenty of green space, and a beautiful glass building to explore (restrooms on the lower level of this building – free) 
Retiro Park
  • Plaza de Espana – this is a spacious square at the west end of Gran Via. There is an epic enclosed playscape in this square that our kiddo (who doesn’t love playscapes) enjoyed for at least an hour and could have stayed longer. 
  • Rio Hotel Rooftop – adjacent to Plaza de Espana is a huge hotel with a rooftop, kid-friendly, bar/restaurant. Besides the amazing views, there is a glass floor you can wait in line to take your picture on. My boys were patient and brave enough to do it. The food and drinks are a bit more pricey, which is to be expected for a nice hotel and rooftop. 
  • Palacio – Worth a visit for the vistas and beautiful buildings. For small kids I would skip the wait and tour of the inside. We enjoyed just wandering around and taking pictures.  
Palacio, Madrid Spain, Plan to Explore
Palacio - you can see the line of people waiting for entry! (and us taking pictures)
  • Plaza Mayor – A must see in Madrid for the colorful buildings and wide open space. We were there at the start of the Christmas markets, so the square had decorations and market stalls. 
Plaza Mayor, Madrid Spain, Plan to Explore
Plaza Mayor

What to Eat with Kids in Madrid, Spain

We found Madrid to be kid-friendly at every restaurant. Kids are welcomed everywhere and treated as a normal part of society (none of the seen and not heard feeling here!) Some places had specific kids menu items, but even if they didn’t we are able to find foods our kiddo enjoyed. 

Food Markets/Halls – Food Markets are plentiful in Madrid, Spain. You’ll find them in almost every neighborhood and offer a lot of variety. If the kids are not up for a sit down meal, this is a great choice for not only quick timing, but also plenty of choices. 

Menu del dia – This lunch time 3 course meal is not only affordable, but typically comes with several choices. We found it ideal to take advantage of a bigger sit down lunch while our son still had the patience to do so. Traditional restaurants offer this all over the city and it typically consists of an appetizer, main course, and dessert. You’ll often find bread included as well. We asked our hotel staff for a local recommendations they would frequent! 

Look for a chalkboard out front of restaurants advertising the menu del dia. 

Surfshark VPN

Want to protect your data while you’re traveling? I highly recommend Surfshark VPN, and have been using it now for years. 

A VPN conceals your IP address so hackers cannot access any of your data. I use it in airports, at coffee shops, and even if I want to access a website I’m not sure about! 

Click here to check it out! 

Churros – Is there anything kids love more than a sweet treat? Churros are a must-have in Madrid. These fried dough sticks are cooked to perfetion and then dipped in a thick hot chocolate like sauce. I highly recommend getting both the churros (skinnier and crispy) and porras (thicker and softer) to try.  Just a heads up to those from the Americas – they are not covered in cinnamon and sugar here, which we really enjoyed. 

Madrid, Spain Churros and Porras, Plan to Explore
Churros and Porras at Chocolat, Madrid, Spain

Madrid, Spain Top Travel Tips

Here are some top travel tips for Madrid, Spain with kids to wrap up my thoughts on the city.   

Getting around Madrid – This is a very easy city to traverse. 

Walkability – The main center is very walkable, and is mainly flat. We found it easy for our son to walk pretty decent distances. 

Ride Share – You’ll find taxis, Uber, and Bolt very readily available. If you have not used Bolt, it is the European version of an Uber or Lyft and has a very easy to use app. 

Public transit – As a major city in Spain, Madrid has excellent public transit. We found we didn’t need it much as we enjoyed walking even in the November temperatures. We did use it to link to the train station for a day trip to Toledo. 

Using Spanish & English in Madrid – I highly recommend learning some basic phrases in Spanish before going to Madrid. I was surprised at how much I really needed to use it here. We did not encounter as many people who spoke English as we have in other major European cities. 

I love to learn at least a few phrases in any local language where we travel to as I feel like its a courteous gesture to locals. In this case I needed more than just hello, please, and thank you.

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you!

The post Tips to Master Your Trip to Madrid Spain with Kids appeared first on Plan to Explore.

]]> https://plantoexplore.com/madrid-spain-with-kids/feed/ 0 Your Easy Itinerary For One Week In Portugal https://plantoexplore.com/one-week-in-portugal/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=one-week-in-portugal https://plantoexplore.com/one-week-in-portugal/#comments Thu, 06 Feb 2020 15:49:34 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=1277 I love Portugal. It’s one of those destinations that you travel to and reminisce about long after your visit. We had one week in Portugal, and I think we hit some of the best highlights.  After lots of research, we decided to visit Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto during our one week stay. We traveled between each location by train, which was super easy.  Read on to see what we did in each city, the areas we stayed in and how we made the most of just one week. I’ll just be over here dreaming of going back….. Part 1: 3 Days in Lisbon Our trip started in Lisbon as it was easy and somewhat affordable to fly to from the US. This city felt like San Francisco with laid-back vibes, seafood and food markets, and lots of history.  To save money we traveled in February, which is the off-season for Lisbon. Temperatures were in the 50 to 60º range. This can be a year-round location, with decent weather at almost any time, you may avoid November – January.  Things To Do in Lisbon With 3 days in Lisbon, you can hit most of the tops things to do and have time to relax a bit as well.  São Jorge Castle: Established in 200 bc by the Romans, and ruined a few times by earthquakes, extensive renovations in the 1940s have brought it back to glory. I really liked this castle, it’s all about the views here. There is a small museum but most of your time will be spent wandering the castle walls and taking in the views. Arrive early right at opening or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.  Alfama: The oldest surviving neighborhood of Lisbon after the earthquake of 1755. This area winds down a hillside from the castle, so it makes sense to visit it after a trip there. Allow yourself to wander and get lost, it’s worth the adventure. There are also some mom and pop restaurants you can stop at along the way.  Miradouros (Lookouts): One of the best ways to experience the sunset in Lisbon. Most have a stand to grab drinks, alcoholic or not. It’s a place that locals bring family and just hang out for a few hours. We really loved the laid back experience. We were there in February and it was still busy, so get there a little bit before sunset to snag a decent spot.  Belém: A must visit to see the monument to all of the explorers that voyaged from the shores of Portugal. Also the home to the origin of Pastéis de nata (so they say), you have to try these at Pastéis de Belém. It’s busy there but if you get them to go you can wander into a nearby park to enjoy.  Transportation: We were able to walk most places. To get to Belém we hopped on a tram (15 or 127) from Figueira Square that took about 15-20 minutes. I’ve also heard that the trams are fun to ride just to get a view of the city, but we enjoy burning some calories after all the delicious food.  For an awesome walking tour of Lisbon, Belém, or Sintra, check out Walks. They have local small group tours.  Read More: Europe Travel Tips Where to Stay in Lisbon For maximum walkability, I would stay in a centrally located neighborhood. Check out these two areas of town:  Bairro Alto: With coffee shops, restaurants, and bars spilling down the hillside all the way to the ocean, this neighborhood is a great spot to stay.  Boutique Hotel in Bairro Alto – Casa do Barão: We stayed at this amazing B&B and absolutely loved it. More like a boutique hotel, the first floor features a library to mingle with other guests and enjoy a glass of port wine. A fresh breakfast was served daily with local cheeses, cake, pastries, eggs, and juices. Rated as a top place to stay on TripAdvisor!  Alfama: A more quaint and historic area, stay here if you want a little more peace and quiet. Close to the castle with winding alleyways, and local eateries.  Book a Hotel or B&B in Lisbon Here What & Where to Eat in Lisbon Foods (and drinks) to try:  Pastéis de nata: These sweet egg custard pastries are not to be missed. Delicious and creamy, they are a great snack or treat at any time of the day.  Bacalhau: Salted and dried codfish. A Portuguese tradition and their national dish, it’s served in many different forms. We personally tried Pastéis de bacalhau, which is like a fish cake.  Octopus: Also a staple on many the Portuguese menu. Usually, you’ll find it fresh,  grilled, and served with potatoes.  Wine: Portuguese wine is a hidden gem. Affordable, delicious and with tons of variety, Portuguese wines are starting to become more recognized.  Ginjinha: A cherry-like liqueur, it’s typically sold at counter bars or shops around town. We loved visiting A Ginjinha to give it a try at the top of Rossio Square. Favorite place to eat:  Time Out Market: Literally a dream food destination. This is a food hall showcasing some of the best chef’s from around the city, each operating a stall. All seating is open, so you can order food or drinks all night and stay as long as you want. We ate here twice during our 3 day stay, and I can honestly say I’ve never eaten somewhere twice on any other travels – it’s that good.  If you want an extremely local food experience, eatwith is your go to. They offer small group food experiences in cities around the world like dinner parties at a local’s home.  Part 2: 1 Day in Sintra Sintra could be a day trip from Lisbon, but we chose to spend one night there to get the most out of it. The train ride from Lisbon to Sintra is just 40 minutes long and departs from Rossio station in Lisbon. Make sure to keep your train ticket in hand when you get off the train, as you’ll need to scan it to exit the station.  Things To Do in Sintra Sintra has a few top sites that people show up to see, I’ll outline them below. We had one full day, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t hold up for us. We were able to see two of the sites below before a downpour.  Quinta de Regaleira: Literally one of my favorite sites I’ve been to while traveling, maybe in part because it was about to rain, and we were just among a small group of people at the site that day. Built by an Italian architect in the early 1900’s, the property features ornate gardens, secret tunnels, a three-story well that you can climb down into, and so much more. A fairytale location. During high season, arrive early so you can be one of the first to enter.   Pena Palace: Part restored monastery and part German-inspired castle the current structure was constructed in the mid-1800s. VERY popular with tourists, you may be better served to purchase the “park only” ticket option, which will give you access to the terraces for the views, and the gardens surrounding the castle. Food on site, but recommended that you eat in the Sintra city center.  Castle of the Moors: Built in the 8th century during Moorish occupation, and restored at the same time as Pena Palace. If you are looking for more of a hike and outdoor setting, with plenty of views, you may choose to visit this over the busy Pena Palace (it can be seen on the next hilltop from the Moorish castle).  Don’t forget Sintra: Before you board the train, don’t forget to visit the historic center for shopping and restaurants.  Transportation: All sites can be reached by the bus that you can board at different points in town, even at the train station. Use bus number 434. If you want an even easier way to see all the sites, you can book a local tour. Check out the options below! Where to Eat & Stay in Sintra Where to eat:  Casa Piriquita: We visited this spot for delicious local pastries. Try the travesseiros, puff pastry filled with cream.  Tulhaus Bar & Restuarant: We had excellent service at this restaurant. After the majority of tourists went back to Lisbon, we almost had this place to ourselves for dinner. Food was good and included a variety of Portuguese and Mediterranean options.  Where to stay:  Sintra 1012 Boutique Guesthouse: I love a small hotel or B&B type accommodation. Our room was a small suite on the lowest level, with our own bathroom and small kitchen area. Absolutely outstanding fresh-made chef’s breakfast was included.  Book a Sintra Hotel or B&B Here Part 3: 3 Days in Porto Porto is such a fairytale-like place. Buildings covered in old tile, quaint restaurants, walkways along the river and port wine. So much port wine. When I dream of Portugal, this is the city I want to go back to the most. There’s just something special about it to me. With only one week in Portugal, this was our last stop.  The train ride from Sintra to Porto is about 4 hours long, so plan accordingly as it will take half a day travel time door to door.  Things To Do in Porto We decided to take a slower pace in Porto and enjoy our time there, and the port of course. There is much more to do and see than what’s listed below, but these are the things we enjoyed.  São Bento Train Station: It’s not typical for a train station to be a tourist attraction, but in this case, it’s worth a visit. The ornate blue tiles inside this station are something to see.  Fado: A traditional style of music in Portugal, and a great way to experience the culture.  It originated in Lisbon in the early 1800s, but we caught a performance while in Porto. You can usually find performances at local bars, we watched one while enjoying a port tasting at Cálem.  Port Wine: I’ll be honest, I didn’t have an appreciation for port until I visited here. It is a fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley. While in Porto, you’ll walk across the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, and the port tasting room options are endless. Most establishments offer a tour and tasting, so you’ll get to learn all about the history. We loved Taylor, Kopke, and Adriano Ramos Pinto.  Riverside Walk: Both sides of the river offer a walking area for pedestrians. It’s the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the views. At night tourists and locals alike flock to the riverside to grab a seat along the water and take in the views. Cais de Ribeira is on the Porto side.  And if you love Harry Potter….Livraria Lello: This library is stunning and dates back to 1881. Unfortunately, it’s overrun with tourists. We did visit but planned it as the very first thing of the day, so we made it in before the hoards.   Transportation: We walked everywhere. There is an extensive metro, tram, and bus system if you need it.  My super creative husband made a video of our trip! Check it out on YouTube! 🙂 Where to Stay in Porto I recommend staying on the Porto side, as the train stations, food, and most sites are there. It’s a pretty easy walk over to the port tasting rooms if you are staying close to the river.  Boutique Hotel in Porto – InPatio Guest House: We stayed here and the location could not have been better. The rooms were modern and comfortable, and the homemade French/Portuguese breakfast was delicious. Highly recommend this spot.  Book a Hotel or B&B in Porto Here Where to Eat in Porto Wine Quay Bar: For dinner with a view of the river check out this location. We met some other travelers there and may have had a little too much wine, but...

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I love Portugal. It’s one of those destinations that you travel to and reminisce about long after your visit. We had one week in Portugal, and I think we hit some of the best highlights. 

After lots of research, we decided to visit Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto during our one week stay. We traveled between each location by train, which was super easy. 

Read on to see what we did in each city, the areas we stayed in and how we made the most of just one week. I’ll just be over here dreaming of going back…..

Part 1: 3 Days in Lisbon

Lisbon View, One Week in Portugal, Plan to Explore

Our trip started in Lisbon as it was easy and somewhat affordable to fly to from the US. This city felt like San Francisco with laid-back vibes, seafood and food markets, and lots of history. 

To save money we traveled in February, which is the off-season for Lisbon. Temperatures were in the 50 to 60º range. This can be a year-round location, with decent weather at almost any time, you may avoid November – January. 

Things To Do in Lisbon

With 3 days in Lisbon, you can hit most of the tops things to do and have time to relax a bit as well. 

  • São Jorge Castle: Established in 200 bc by the Romans, and ruined a few times by earthquakes, extensive renovations in the 1940s have brought it back to glory. I really liked this castle, it’s all about the views here. There is a small museum but most of your time will be spent wandering the castle walls and taking in the views. Arrive early right at opening or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds. 
  • Alfama: The oldest surviving neighborhood of Lisbon after the earthquake of 1755. This area winds down a hillside from the castle, so it makes sense to visit it after a trip there. Allow yourself to wander and get lost, it’s worth the adventure. There are also some mom and pop restaurants you can stop at along the way. 
  • Miradouros (Lookouts): One of the best ways to experience the sunset in Lisbon. Most have a stand to grab drinks, alcoholic or not. It’s a place that locals bring family and just hang out for a few hours. We really loved the laid back experience. We were there in February and it was still busy, so get there a little bit before sunset to snag a decent spot. 
  • Belém: A must visit to see the monument to all of the explorers that voyaged from the shores of Portugal. Also the home to the origin of Pastéis de nata (so they say), you have to try these at Pastéis de Belém. It’s busy there but if you get them to go you can wander into a nearby park to enjoy. 

Transportation: We were able to walk most places. To get to Belém we hopped on a tram (15 or 127) from Figueira Square that took about 15-20 minutes. I’ve also heard that the trams are fun to ride just to get a view of the city, but we enjoy burning some calories after all the delicious food. 

For an awesome walking tour of Lisbon, Belém, or Sintra, check out Walks. They have local small group tours. 

Read More: Europe Travel Tips

Where to Stay in Lisbon

For maximum walkability, I would stay in a centrally located neighborhood. Check out these two areas of town: 

Bairro Alto: With coffee shops, restaurants, and bars spilling down the hillside all the way to the ocean, this neighborhood is a great spot to stay. 

  • Boutique Hotel in Bairro Alto – Casa do Barão: We stayed at this amazing B&B and absolutely loved it. More like a boutique hotel, the first floor features a library to mingle with other guests and enjoy a glass of port wine. A fresh breakfast was served daily with local cheeses, cake, pastries, eggs, and juices. Rated as a top place to stay on TripAdvisor! 

Alfama: A more quaint and historic area, stay here if you want a little more peace and quiet. Close to the castle with winding alleyways, and local eateries. 

Book a Hotel or B&B in Lisbon Here

What & Where to Eat in Lisbon

Foods (and drinks) to try: 

  • Pastéis de nata: These sweet egg custard pastries are not to be missed. Delicious and creamy, they are a great snack or treat at any time of the day. 
  • Bacalhau: Salted and dried codfish. A Portuguese tradition and their national dish, it’s served in many different forms. We personally tried Pastéis de bacalhau, which is like a fish cake. 
  • Octopus: Also a staple on many the Portuguese menu. Usually, you’ll find it fresh,  grilled, and served with potatoes. 
  • Wine: Portuguese wine is a hidden gem. Affordable, delicious and with tons of variety, Portuguese wines are starting to become more recognized. 
  • Ginjinha: A cherry-like liqueur, it’s typically sold at counter bars or shops around town. We loved visiting A Ginjinha to give it a try at the top of Rossio Square.

Favorite place to eat: 

Time Out Market: Literally a dream food destination. This is a food hall showcasing some of the best chef’s from around the city, each operating a stall. All seating is open, so you can order food or drinks all night and stay as long as you want. We ate here twice during our 3 day stay, and I can honestly say I’ve never eaten somewhere twice on any other travels – it’s that good. 

If you want an extremely local food experience, eatwith is your go to. They offer small group food experiences in cities around the world like dinner parties at a local’s home. 

Part 2: 1 Day in Sintra

Sintra could be a day trip from Lisbon, but we chose to spend one night there to get the most out of it. The train ride from Lisbon to Sintra is just 40 minutes long and departs from Rossio station in Lisbon. Make sure to keep your train ticket in hand when you get off the train, as you’ll need to scan it to exit the station. 

Things To Do in Sintra

Sintra has a few top sites that people show up to see, I’ll outline them below. We had one full day, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t hold up for us. We were able to see two of the sites below before a downpour. 

  • Quinta de Regaleira: Literally one of my favorite sites I’ve been to while traveling, maybe in part because it was about to rain, and we were just among a small group of people at the site that day. Built by an Italian architect in the early 1900’s, the property features ornate gardens, secret tunnels, a three-story well that you can climb down into, and so much more. A fairytale location. During high season, arrive early so you can be one of the first to enter.  
  • Pena Palace: Part restored monastery and part German-inspired castle the current structure was constructed in the mid-1800s. VERY popular with tourists, you may be better served to purchase the “park only” ticket option, which will give you access to the terraces for the views, and the gardens surrounding the castle. Food on site, but recommended that you eat in the Sintra city center. 
  • Castle of the Moors: Built in the 8th century during Moorish occupation, and restored at the same time as Pena Palace. If you are looking for more of a hike and outdoor setting, with plenty of views, you may choose to visit this over the busy Pena Palace (it can be seen on the next hilltop from the Moorish castle). 
  • Don’t forget Sintra: Before you board the train, don’t forget to visit the historic center for shopping and restaurants. 

Transportation: All sites can be reached by the bus that you can board at different points in town, even at the train station. Use bus number 434. If you want an even easier way to see all the sites, you can book a local tour. Check out the options below!

Where to Eat & Stay in Sintra

Where to eat: 

  • Casa Piriquita: We visited this spot for delicious local pastries. Try the travesseiros, puff pastry filled with cream. 
  • Tulhaus Bar & Restuarant: We had excellent service at this restaurant. After the majority of tourists went back to Lisbon, we almost had this place to ourselves for dinner. Food was good and included a variety of Portuguese and Mediterranean options. 

Where to stay: 

Sintra 1012 Boutique Guesthouse: I love a small hotel or B&B type accommodation. Our room was a small suite on the lowest level, with our own bathroom and small kitchen area. Absolutely outstanding fresh-made chef’s breakfast was included. 

Book a Sintra Hotel or B&B Here

Part 3: 3 Days in Porto

View of Porto, One Week in Portugal, Plan to Explore

Porto is such a fairytale-like place. Buildings covered in old tile, quaint restaurants, walkways along the river and port wine. So much port wine. When I dream of Portugal, this is the city I want to go back to the most. There’s just something special about it to me. With only one week in Portugal, this was our last stop. 

The train ride from Sintra to Porto is about 4 hours long, so plan accordingly as it will take half a day travel time door to door. 

Things To Do in Porto

Things to do in Porto, One week in Portugal, Plan to Explore

We decided to take a slower pace in Porto and enjoy our time there, and the port of course. There is much more to do and see than what’s listed below, but these are the things we enjoyed. 

  • São Bento Train Station: It’s not typical for a train station to be a tourist attraction, but in this case, it’s worth a visit. The ornate blue tiles inside this station are something to see. 
  • Fado: A traditional style of music in Portugal, and a great way to experience the culture.  It originated in Lisbon in the early 1800s, but we caught a performance while in Porto. You can usually find performances at local bars, we watched one while enjoying a port tasting at Cálem. 
  • Port Wine: I’ll be honest, I didn’t have an appreciation for port until I visited here. It is a fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley. While in Porto, you’ll walk across the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, and the port tasting room options are endless. Most establishments offer a tour and tasting, so you’ll get to learn all about the history. We loved Taylor, Kopke, and Adriano Ramos Pinto. 
  • Riverside Walk: Both sides of the river offer a walking area for pedestrians. It’s the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the views. At night tourists and locals alike flock to the riverside to grab a seat along the water and take in the views. Cais de Ribeira is on the Porto side. 
  • And if you love Harry Potter….Livraria Lello: This library is stunning and dates back to 1881. Unfortunately, it’s overrun with tourists. We did visit but planned it as the very first thing of the day, so we made it in before the hoards. 
     

Transportation: We walked everywhere. There is an extensive metro, tram, and bus system if you need it. 

My super creative husband made a video of our trip! Check it out on YouTube! 🙂

Where to Stay in Porto

I recommend staying on the Porto side, as the train stations, food, and most sites are there. It’s a pretty easy walk over to the port tasting rooms if you are staying close to the river. 

Boutique Hotel in Porto – InPatio Guest House: We stayed here and the location could not have been better. The rooms were modern and comfortable, and the homemade French/Portuguese breakfast was delicious. Highly recommend this spot. 

Book a Hotel or B&B in Porto Here

Where to Eat in Porto

Wine Quay Bar: For dinner with a view of the river check out this location. We met some other travelers there and may have had a little too much wine, but we really enjoyed the food and atmosphere. 

Traça: A delicious and upscale spot, but still on the affordable side. This was our last meal in Portugal and it was a good one. It’s a really interesting space because the building slopes down a hillside. We ate on the “lower” level and it was a cozy space. Do make a reservation. 

To get a local food experience, eatwith has so many great options in Porto! You can even learn about the traditional flavors of Porto on this tour! 

One week in Portugal felt like enough time to get a good taste, but not nearly enough time to truly experience all it has to offer. This country is definitely on my “return to” list! I hope you plan a trip to get to know this wonderful place. 

Are you inspired to spend one week in Portugal, or maybe longer? Let me know in the comments below!

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]]> https://plantoexplore.com/one-week-in-portugal/feed/ 1 How-to Guide and Top Tips for Budapest Hungary https://plantoexplore.com/budapest-hungary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=budapest-hungary https://plantoexplore.com/budapest-hungary/#comments Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:26:54 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=724 I never understood why they called Budapest Hungary the Paris of Eastern Europe. And then I traveled there.  There is something grand about Budapest, that is unlike many other European cities. It doesn’t have the “hit you in the face” fairytale feeling, it’s just welcoming and beautiful.  If you read my article 5 Reasons Why You Need to Try Hungarian Wine, then you know I’ve had this city on my bucket list for a long time. It’s super affordable, easy to navigate, and there’s So. Much. Good. Food.  Read on to get my tips and recommendations for this amazing city, and to watch our full travel video! Just for fun – you’ll also find out the meaning and pronunciation of my Hungarian maiden name.  How to Get There You might be surprised to hear that a number of people asked me “Budapest, where is that?” when I told them our destination.  Or maybe you didn’t know where it was either. If so you’re welcome for the above map.  Now, how to get there…. 1. By Plane Budapest’s Ferenc Liszt Airport is located about 22 km outside the city. The airport is modern and easy to navigate, and customs took us almost no time at all on arrival.  There are a few choices for transportation into the city.  100E bus – You can take the bus which leaves from Terminal 2 and takes you directly to Deak Ferenc Square, which is the center of the city and also a Metro stop. This is the cheapest option and will take about 40 minutes. Buy your tickets from the purple machine marked BKK. Cost should be around 3€. Taxi – Another option, the one we opted for, is to take a taxi. There is a taxi stand is directly outside baggage claim, where they ask for your destination address and then quote you a price. We were in a taxi and on our way in a matter of a few minutes. Cost should be around 22€. miniBud Airport Shuttle – Last, there is an airport shuttle called miniBud you can book. This is a shared shuttle service. The cost for two of us was almost the same as taking a taxi, which is why we opted for a taxi.  Pro Tip: If you are departing at the end of your trip from Budapest Airport, no need to arrive any earlier than 2 hours prior. There are no set counters for airlines at this airport, so check-in can be in any location and doesn’t open early. You’ll end up waiting like we did if you show up early.  Luggage Storage Looking for a place to store your luggage? Maybe your hotel room isn’t ready for check-in, or you have a long layover and want to explore a city. You need to check out a service called Luggage Hero. You can book storage for as little as 1 hour, up to a full day and at a much cheaper rate than most airport storage solutions.  Click here to see the Luggage Hero locations in Budapest, or browse around for any city you may be traveling to!  2. By Train If you live in Europe, or Budapest is just one location on your travels, then you may be arriving by train.  Budapest–Keleti pályaudvar is the main international and regional railway station.  Metro – There are Metro lines below the station, lines 2 & 4 can take you almost anywhere in the city. Walking – You can walk to the city center, but it will take you about 40 minutes.  Taxi – Just outside the station taxis should be readily available. Make sure they are clearly marked and start the meter.  Pro Tip: If you are leaving Budapest to head to another country, the international ticket office is along Platform 6. Make sure to grab a number and await your turn. You can book your ticket online ahead of time as well, and I recommend you do so in the summer months. The ticket line can take 30-40 minutes during the busy season.  IMPORTANT TIP – Download the Bolt app before you get to the city. Bolt is their version of Uber or Lyft. It’s super easy to use and inexpensive.  You enter your destination, it reads your location and sends a taxi right to you. It also shows you the car progress in real time, and you pay through the app. We used this quite a few times when we had wandered too far and wanted to get back across town quickly.  Budapest Seasons and Weather Budapest is located in central Eastern Europe, with a moderate climate. Winters are cold, with cool spring and fall seasons, and warm summer. I’ll outline the seasons with the pros and cons below.  Winter: Temperatures range from 30-40ºF (-1-4°C). This is considered the off-season unless you are there for a Christmas Market. You’ll most likely get the most affordable lodging prices during this time, but obviously, it will be cold.  Spring:  Temps range from 50-70ºF (10-21°C). Late spring is a great time to visit, with ideal temperatures to site see. This is the shoulder season, so prices should be moderate, but increase the closer you get to summer.  Summer:  Temperatures range from 70-80ºF (21-26°C). This is the busy high season. Prices will be a little elevated, but the city is alive during this time. There are more events along the river, like live music and people are out and about.  Fall:  Temps range from 40-70ºF (4-21°C), with averages in the 60’s. This time of year is also great but can start to get cool quickly. September and early October will give you the best weather to still really enjoy the outdoors.  Pro Tip: If you want to book during the busy seasons of late spring, summer or early fall, plan to book accommodations in advance to ensure your preferred location. Learn about the best times to visit and save money with my post How to Easily Plan Cheap Vacations to Europe.  Where to Stay in Budapest Budapest offers really affordable and NICE accommodations for the cost.  We visited in early October and stayed in the above pictured Airbnb for 70€ a night. That included living space, a small kitchen, loft bedroom and full bath in a historic apartment building. Yes, those front steps open up onto a quiet courtyard.  I wish I was sitting there right now drinking a glass of wine!   There are a few optimal location options in Budapest outlined below.  Jewish District VII –  If you like cafes, restaurants, and bars at your doorstep, this is the district for you. Most of the ruin bars are located here, as well as the Synagogue, and lots of interesting murals.   River Front Pest District V – The higher-end accommodations are located here, as well as the long shopping street Vaci utca. If you like chain hotels or want to stay close to the Danube, this is it. This area is the most central location in the city. You will be steps away from everything. Pest District VI – Home to the Opera House and Train Station, this is also a central option. I would recommend staying in the southern half of the area, closer to St. Stephen’s Basilica. This is adjacent to the Jewish District as well.  Castle District / Buda – The other side of the river is much quieter. If you’d like to be close to the Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Gellért or Kiraly thermal baths, stay here. It’s a 30-minute walk from this side to the Jewish District. This district has a lot more hills to traverse.    Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check sites like Trip Advisor and Airbnb for where to stay. Always read reviews! Our place in Budapest was in one of the busiest locations in the city, but we were able to read that it was in an interior courtyard and felt secluded – which was true! Top Budapest Sites This city really has something for everyone. There’s no way to cover every site in the city in this post, but below are the top 6 sites we visited to add to your list.  One of our favorite moments was hiking to the top of the Citadel, and enjoying a beer while taking in the view.  There is no shortage of views and vantage points in this city, and we enjoyed exploring a number of them! I’ll break them up by Buda & Pest.  Pest Side – Sites 1. Saint Stephen’s Basilica  A beautiful church that’s a must-see, whether you just enjoy the exterior architecture, or venture inside. We decided to take the elevator up to the dome tower for a view of the city. Pictured above!  Note: You’ll need to pay a small donation to enter the interior. To take the elevator up to the dome, the cost is 1000 ft, which is around $3.50 USD. Definitely worth it! You might need a light jacket as it was pretty windy up there, or a hair tie. (my hair was in my face for most of the pictures we took)   2. Hero’s Square & City Park If you are looking for a lovely city break to stroll through tall trees, stand in the middle of a big beautiful square, or marvel at a castle originally created as a facade, this is it. Hero’s Square was expecting some foreign visitors, so it was closed, which actually made for some great people free photos. Vajdahunyad Castle was built in the late 1800s as a part of an exhibition made out of wood and cardboard. It was so popular that they decide to build it with stone and brick between 1904-1908. It features various architectural styles and houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture.  Note: There is a playground on-site, paid restrooms, and some food offerings as well. This park could be an all-day experience, is you planned to visit all the sites available. We didn’t enter Széchenyi baths but would recommend going early on a weekday if you plan to.  In the winter, they have ice skating in front of the castle!  3. Parliament Building This is the most iconic building in Budapest, and one of the largest parliaments in the world. Located right next to the Danube on the Pest side, most visitors enjoy and photograph the exterior of the building. If you would like to see the interior, you’ll need to pay for a guided tour. You can enter the lobby area for free, to get a glimpse of the neo-gothic style.  Note: Guided tours last around 45 minutes, and cost 3200 ft ($10.50). A river cruise would be a great way to see the parliament too!  Buda Side – Sites 1. Gellert Thermal Baths Historic and well kept thermal baths on the Buda side, part of the Gellert Hotel. We visited these baths and really enjoyed the experience. They offer a regular swimming pool both indoor and outdoors, a wave pool in the summer, and 6 thermal baths (5 indoor, one outdoor). Link to the bath website and map here.  Note: You can pay to rent a private cabin to change in, but we found the lockers a better value. There are changing booths in the locker area and private showers to rinse off after the baths. Cost for bath entrance and a locker is 5900 ft on the weekdays, 6100 on the weekend. You can also rent a towel if you prefer not to bring one.  Don’t forget sandals of some type! These waterproof Birkenstocks would be perfect.  2. Citadel  Also know as the Citadella, this viewpoint is located at the top of a hill next to Gellert Thermal Baths. We enjoyed hiking to the top, but it’s also easily accessible by car/bus from the Northside.  Note: This is a great place to hang out for a bit and enjoy the view. Located at the top is a bar with wine and beer and some cafe tables. There are also some market stands with gifts and snacks, as well as paid restrooms. 3. Castle...

The post How-to Guide and Top Tips for Budapest Hungary appeared first on Plan to Explore.

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I never understood why they called Budapest Hungary the Paris of Eastern Europe. And then I traveled there. 

There is something grand about Budapest, that is unlike many other European cities. It doesn’t have the “hit you in the face” fairytale feeling, it’s just welcoming and beautiful. 

If you read my article 5 Reasons Why You Need to Try Hungarian Wine, then you know I’ve had this city on my bucket list for a long time. It’s super affordable, easy to navigate, and there’s So. Much. Good. Food. 

Read on to get my tips and recommendations for this amazing city, and to watch our full travel video! Just for fun – you’ll also find out the meaning and pronunciation of my Hungarian maiden name. 

How to Get There

Budapest Hungary Map

You might be surprised to hear that a number of people asked me “Budapest, where is that?” when I told them our destination. 

Or maybe you didn’t know where it was either. If so you’re welcome for the above map. 

Now, how to get there….

1. By Plane

Budapest’s Ferenc Liszt Airport is located about 22 km outside the city. The airport is modern and easy to navigate, and customs took us almost no time at all on arrival. 

There are a few choices for transportation into the city. 

  1. 100E bus – You can take the bus which leaves from Terminal 2 and takes you directly to Deak Ferenc Square, which is the center of the city and also a Metro stop. This is the cheapest option and will take about 40 minutes. Buy your tickets from the purple machine marked BKK. Cost should be around 3€.
  2. Taxi – Another option, the one we opted for, is to take a taxi. There is a taxi stand is directly outside baggage claim, where they ask for your destination address and then quote you a price. We were in a taxi and on our way in a matter of a few minutes. Cost should be around 22€.
  3. miniBud Airport Shuttle – Last, there is an airport shuttle called miniBud you can book. This is a shared shuttle service. The cost for two of us was almost the same as taking a taxi, which is why we opted for a taxi. 

Pro Tip: If you are departing at the end of your trip from Budapest Airport, no need to arrive any earlier than 2 hours prior. There are no set counters for airlines at this airport, so check-in can be in any location and doesn’t open early. You’ll end up waiting like we did if you show up early. 

Luggage Storage

Looking for a place to store your luggage? Maybe your hotel room isn’t ready for check-in, or you have a long layover and want to explore a city. You need to check out a service called Luggage Hero. You can book storage for as little as 1 hour, up to a full day and at a much cheaper rate than most airport storage solutions. 

Click here to see the Luggage Hero locations in Budapest, or browse around for any city you may be traveling to! 

2. By Train

If you live in Europe, or Budapest is just one location on your travels, then you may be arriving by train. 

Budapest–Keleti pályaudvar is the main international and regional railway station. 

  1. Metro – There are Metro lines below the station, lines 2 & 4 can take you almost anywhere in the city.
  2. Walking – You can walk to the city center, but it will take you about 40 minutes. 
  3. Taxi – Just outside the station taxis should be readily available. Make sure they are clearly marked and start the meter. 
Pro Tip: If you are leaving Budapest to head to another country, the international ticket office is along Platform 6. Make sure to grab a number and await your turn. You can book your ticket online ahead of time as well, and I recommend you do so in the summer months. The ticket line can take 30-40 minutes during the busy season. 

IMPORTANT TIP – Download the Bolt app before you get to the city. Bolt is their version of Uber or Lyft. It’s super easy to use and inexpensive. 

You enter your destination, it reads your location and sends a taxi right to you. It also shows you the car progress in real time, and you pay through the app. We used this quite a few times when we had wandered too far and wanted to get back across town quickly. 

Budapest Seasons and Weather

Budapest Hungary Fall Weather

Budapest is located in central Eastern Europe, with a moderate climate. Winters are cold, with cool spring and fall seasons, and warm summer.

I’ll outline the seasons with the pros and cons below. 

Winter: Temperatures range from 30-40ºF (-1-4°C). This is considered the off-season unless you are there for a Christmas Market. You’ll most likely get the most affordable lodging prices during this time, but obviously, it will be cold. 

Spring:  Temps range from 50-70ºF (10-21°C). Late spring is a great time to visit, with ideal temperatures to site see. This is the shoulder season, so prices should be moderate, but increase the closer you get to summer. 

Summer:  Temperatures range from 70-80ºF (21-26°C). This is the busy high season. Prices will be a little elevated, but the city is alive during this time. There are more events along the river, like live music and people are out and about. 

Fall:  Temps range from 40-70ºF (4-21°C), with averages in the 60’s. This time of year is also great but can start to get cool quickly. September and early October will give you the best weather to still really enjoy the outdoors. 

Pro Tip: If you want to book during the busy seasons of late spring, summer or early fall, plan to book accommodations in advance to ensure your preferred location. Learn about the best times to visit and save money with my post How to Easily Plan Cheap Vacations to Europe. 

Where to Stay in Budapest

Budapest Hungary Airbnb

Budapest offers really affordable and NICE accommodations for the cost. 

We visited in early October and stayed in the above pictured Airbnb for 70€ a night. That included living space, a small kitchen, loft bedroom and full bath in a historic apartment building. Yes, those front steps open up onto a quiet courtyard. 

I wish I was sitting there right now drinking a glass of wine!  

There are a few optimal location options in Budapest outlined below. 

Jewish District VII –  If you like cafes, restaurants, and bars at your doorstep, this is the district for you. Most of the ruin bars are located here, as well as the Synagogue, and lots of interesting murals.  

River Front Pest District V – The higher-end accommodations are located here, as well as the long shopping street Vaci utca. If you like chain hotels or want to stay close to the Danube, this is it. This area is the most central location in the city. You will be steps away from everything.

Pest District VI – Home to the Opera House and Train Station, this is also a central option. I would recommend staying in the southern half of the area, closer to St. Stephen’s Basilica. This is adjacent to the Jewish District as well. 

Castle District / Buda – The other side of the river is much quieter. If you’d like to be close to the Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Gellért or Kiraly thermal baths, stay here. It’s a 30-minute walk from this side to the Jewish District. This district has a lot more hills to traverse. 

TripAdvisor

 

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check sites like Trip Advisor and Airbnb for where to stay. Always read reviews! Our place in Budapest was in one of the busiest locations in the city, but we were able to read that it was in an interior courtyard and felt secluded – which was true!

Top Budapest Sites

Vajdahunyad Castle Budapest Hungary

This city really has something for everyone. There’s no way to cover every site in the city in this post, but below are the top 6 sites we visited to add to your list. 

One of our favorite moments was hiking to the top of the Citadel, and enjoying a beer while taking in the view. 

There is no shortage of views and vantage points in this city, and we enjoyed exploring a number of them! I’ll break them up by Buda & Pest. 

Pest Side - Sites

Saint Stephens Basilica
1. Saint Stephen's Basilica 

A beautiful church that’s a must-see, whether you just enjoy the exterior architecture, or venture inside. We decided to take the elevator up to the dome tower for a view of the city. Pictured above! 

Note: You’ll need to pay a small donation to enter the interior. To take the elevator up to the dome, the cost is 1000 ft, which is around $3.50 USD. Definitely worth it! You might need a light jacket as it was pretty windy up there, or a hair tie. (my hair was in my face for most of the pictures we took)  

2. Hero's Square & City Park

If you are looking for a lovely city break to stroll through tall trees, stand in the middle of a big beautiful square, or marvel at a castle originally created as a facade, this is it. Hero’s Square was expecting some foreign visitors, so it was closed, which actually made for some great people free photos.

Vajdahunyad Castle was built in the late 1800s as a part of an exhibition made out of wood and cardboard. It was so popular that they decide to build it with stone and brick between 1904-1908. It features various architectural styles and houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture. 
 
Note: There is a playground on-site, paid restrooms, and some food offerings as well. This park could be an all-day experience, is you planned to visit all the sites available. We didn’t enter Széchenyi baths but would recommend going early on a weekday if you plan to.  In the winter, they have ice skating in front of the castle! 
3. Parliament Building

This is the most iconic building in Budapest, and one of the largest parliaments in the world. Located right next to the Danube on the Pest side, most visitors enjoy and photograph the exterior of the building. If you would like to see the interior, you’ll need to pay for a guided tour. You can enter the lobby area for free, to get a glimpse of the neo-gothic style. 

Note: Guided tours last around 45 minutes, and cost 3200 ft ($10.50). A river cruise would be a great way to see the parliament too! 

Buda Side - Sites

Fisherman's Bastion Budapest Hungary
1. Gellert Thermal Baths

Historic and well kept thermal baths on the Buda side, part of the Gellert Hotel. We visited these baths and really enjoyed the experience. They offer a regular swimming pool both indoor and outdoors, a wave pool in the summer, and 6 thermal baths (5 indoor, one outdoor). Link to the bath website and map here. 

Note: You can pay to rent a private cabin to change in, but we found the lockers a better value. There are changing booths in the locker area and private showers to rinse off after the baths. Cost for bath entrance and a locker is 5900 ft on the weekdays, 6100 on the weekend. You can also rent a towel if you prefer not to bring one. 

Don’t forget sandals of some type! These waterproof Birkenstocks would be perfect. 

2. Citadel 

Also know as the Citadella, this viewpoint is located at the top of a hill next to Gellert Thermal Baths. We enjoyed hiking to the top, but it’s also easily accessible by car/bus from the Northside. 

Note: This is a great place to hang out for a bit and enjoy the view. Located at the top is a bar with wine and beer and some cafe tables. There are also some market stands with gifts and snacks, as well as paid restrooms.

3. Castle and Fisherman's Bastion

Just across the Chain Bridge from the Pest side, you’ll find the funicular, or a steep path, that leads you up to the castle, also known as the Royal Palace. The complex houses the Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery as well (basically artifacts and art, haha). 

Fisherman’s Bastion (above) is a beautiful viewpoint and you’ll see it in a lot of traveler’s photos. It was built in the late 1800s to commemorate the fisherman’s guild who built a defensive post for the city there in the middle ages. 

Note: The History Museum & Gallery are not open on Mondays. Also, this area gets really busy, so if you can visit on a weekday and early in the morning you’ll beat some of the crowds. You’ll have to pay if you want to go to the top level of Fisherman’s Bastion. We wandered the streets around this district and enjoyed brightly colored buildings and a few hidden alleyways.

Hungarian Beer, Wine & Ruin Bars

I keep saying Budapest has it all, but it’s true. 

There’s no shortage of places to grab a drink, and they have so much selection. Their craft beer is on point, their wine surprised us, and the ruin bars are so much fun to explore! 

I’m going to break my recommendations up into beer, wine and ruin bars below so you can scroll to the section that appeals the most to you! 

1. Beer

If you like beer don’t miss out on the craft beer scene in Budapest. Visit the taprooms below, or wander into any location that looks interesting! 

  • FIRST craft beer – There are two locations in the heart of the city, one at Dob u. 3, and one at Madách Imre tér 3, both are in the Jewish Quarter. We did not try any of their food, but the beers were all great quality. 
  • KEG sörművház – Located on the Buda side, walking distance from Gellert Baths, at Orlay u. 1. This place is a hidden gem! We stopped in for lunch and had two courses for around $5 USD per person, the cabbage stew is in the pictures above. They offered an amazing selection of European craft beers from all different locations, as well as Hungarian brews. MUST try place in my opinion.
2. Wine

First things first, you need to read my post 5 Reasons Why You Need to Try Hungarian Wine if you love wine. It’s a detailed guide on all things Hungarian wine. 

If you just want a few wine bar suggestions, read on! 

  • Doblo Wine Bar – A fantastic place to taste wine. Their recommendations were on point, and we really enjoyed their red selection. They offer a combined tasting menu and meat and cheese plate if you want to go that route. 
  • Kadarka Wine Bar – This is a wonderful wine and dinner spot, recommended to us by our Hungarian wine tour guide. Both of us enjoyed our meals there and the wine. This place is a little pricey, comparatively and it’s really busy. I recommend making a reservation, as it was lively and full on a Friday night. Other weeknights may be a bit quieter.
3. Ruin Bars

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about the ruin bars going in. They seemed a little outrageous or over the top. BUT I can say that I have been converted. 

We visited a few on our trip, and all were interesting in their own way. 

  • Szimpla Kert – If you have done any research on Budapest, surely you’ve heard this name already. It’s basically a huge space that looks like it’s decorated with stuff from a thousand garage sales. What I loved – good selection of beer, and the food upstairs was actually amazing and affordable (in the pic above – doesn’t that look sooo good!). Definitely worth checking out even if you just stroll through to gawk at the decorations. 
  • Élesztő – This is a little off the beaten path, but well worth going. They have beer, and a wine and tapas bar. We were here for a wine tasting hosted by a tour company, but all the wines were great. This place is also connected to a hot chocolate cafe filled with TEDDY BEARS. Yes, you heard that right. He also gave me a free mini hot chocolate and I was way too excited about it. 

Pro Tip: You can order your beverage in two different ml sizes at almost every establishment. This is great as many of the breweries or taprooms don’t offer an official tasting flight. You can essentially order a half beer, or a half glass of wine and then move on to try the next. 

Quick List - Hungarian Foods to try

For the fist time on a trip abroad, we decided to make a “must try” food list.

We spent most of my Birthday in two of the market halls trying the food, and shopping for souvenirs in between. Great place to be on your Birthday – am I right?

Below is our list of some must-try yummy Hungarian foods, and where to get them! 

  1. Goulash (Gulyásleves)– The food I’m sure you think of when someone mentions Hungary. You can honestly find this almost anywhere. We found one for a great value at the Hold ut. (street) food market close to Liberty Square.
  2. Pigs in a blanket (Töltött Káposzta)– As a midwesterner from a German and Hungarian background, I’ve been eating this food all of my life. We tried pigs in a blanket at the Great Food Market Hall on my Birthday tour. They make it with pork, sour cream on top, and stewed cabbage on the side. SO GOOD. 
  3. Langos – Pronounced Lan-go-sh, this fried dough with sour cream and cheese on top is amazing. It’s quite the “snack” – I recommend sharing it with your travel companion. A popular spot to grab this on the go is at Retró Lángos Büfé close to Hold ut. food market. 
  4. Strudel (Rétes)– We tried sour cherry and cottage cheese with strawberry jam. Both were so delicious and we bought them from a stall downstairs at the Great Food Market Hall. 

Note: We also had AMAZING middle eastern food at a restaurant called Dobrumba. You have to make reservations in advance (reservations can be made by email). Oh, AND the coffee was great too. I’m going to go back just to eat and drink things. For real. 

Budapest Travel Video!

Want to get a preview of Budapest and see some of the places I talked about above? Click below to watch our Budapest Travel Video. If you like it, subscribe to Brandon James’ Channel on Youtube! 

Bonus - My Hungarian Maiden Name Story!

My maiden name, Takacs, is Hungarian. We pronounce it “Tackis” in the US. I had to ask a Hungarian while we were there the correct way to say it, and what it means. 

Pronounced: Ta-kach (with a ch sound at the end like the beginning of cheese)

Meaning: Weaver or craftsman

Pretty cool right?! 

Do you have the info you need to visit Budapest, Hungary now? I sure hope so - this post was a detailed one!

If you have any questions about Budapest - comment below!

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links (we so appreciate your support), at no additional cost to you.

The post How-to Guide and Top Tips for Budapest Hungary appeared first on Plan to Explore.

]]> https://plantoexplore.com/budapest-hungary/feed/ 9 5 Reasons Why You Need to Try Hungarian Wine https://plantoexplore.com/hungarian-wine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hungarian-wine https://plantoexplore.com/hungarian-wine/#comments Fri, 25 Oct 2019 21:11:49 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=601 Did you know that Hungary produces some pretty great wine? I didn’t until I started planning a trip to Budapest.  I had Budapest on my bucket list because my maiden name, Takacs, is Hungarian, and I don’t know much about my history on that side. Once I learned Hungary produces quality wine, I was 100% convinced it was the next location we should visit!   Eastern European affordability + beautiful city + quality wine = Ideal travel spot.  Read on to learn a little bit more about Hungarian wine, the history, wine regions, and why you should visit to try it!  (Click to read my full travel guide on Budapest where my story of learning more about my Maiden name continues!)  1. The (Quick) Hungarian Wine History Hungarian wine during the communist occupation was barely drinkable.  Wine production during this time was based on quantity, not quality, as wineries were controlled by the state. If you tried wine in Hungary before 1989, chances are it was not good.  Our winery tour guide told us he used to mix coca-cola with Hungarian wine, so it would taste decent. Yes, you heard that right.  Once communism fell in 1989 the winemakers started to really focus on quality again. They wanted to enhance their wine to a higher standard and hoped it would increase the popularity, especially with Hungarians.  Today, Hungarians love their wine, so much so that 97% of it is consumed within their own country. On our way out at the airport, the gentleman who checked our passports made sure we had tried their wine. He also told us white wine is typically for men, and red for women – Interesting!  Pro Tip: Hungarians are crazy about their Rosé and consumption has had a major bump in the last few years. They also drink something called fröccs which is soda water mixed with wine, typically rosé. They claim this drink will keep you hydrated as you drink, the perfect summer drink. Bottoms up! 2. Hungary has Multiple Regions & Types of Wine for Everyone Beautiful Takler Winery in Szekszárd. With 22 wine regions in one country, it’s hard to not find a varietal that you like.  Below are the most prominent regions, including their location and travel time from Budapest.  North of Budapest Tokaj Region Location: Northeast of Budapest, with the town of Tokaj as the center of the wine region.  Drive Time: Approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Budapest.  Varietals & Info: Tokaj is well known for its sweet dessert wine of the same name. If you’ve heard of or tried Hungarian wine before, it was most likely this one.  Eger Region Location: Also Northeast of Budapest.  Drive Time: Approximately a 1 hour and 40 minute drive from Budapest.  Varietals & Info: Known for its Cuvée varietals, they also produce Egri Csillag, and Egri Bikavér.    South of Budapest Lake Balaton Region Location: Southwest of Budapest.  Drive Time: Approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Budapest.  Varietals & Info: This region produces full bodied whites with a hint of spice. There are a number of regions just within the lake area. Varietals to try include  Olaszrizling, Kéknyelű and Bakator.  Szekszárd Region Location: South of Budapest Drive Time: Approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Budapest.  Varietals & Info: One of the top red wine areas in the country. Wines you need to try include Kadarka, Kékfrankos, and Bikavér (and Rosé).   Villány Region Location: South of Budapest, close to the Croatian border.  Drive Time: Approximately a 2 hour drive from Budapest.  Varietals & Info: Almost a mediterranean climate, and very close to the Croatian border. Featuring full bodied spicy reds. French varietals do well here including Merlot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet. Also try Portugieser, or Schiller.  Pro Tip: Unless you have a car, visiting wineries in these regions may prove difficult. I recommend scheduling a tour, but do your research.  A good guide should have knowledge of the areas, speak the language, and may take you to wineries that you would have never had access to. We booked our tour through Airbnb experiences – direct link here!  3. Hungarian Red Wine is Fabulous Check out this wine cellar tasting room! It was designed to look like a chapel, not bad huh? I had the fortunate experience of visiting the Szekszárd wine region in Southern Hungary. Just an hour and a half South of Budapest, we had a private tour of two wineries in the area. Szekszárd is one of only two regions allowed to make and label Hungary’s infamous “Bull’s Blood” varietal, Bikavér (Eger is the other region). They also produce and we sampled, Rosé, Cab Franc, Kadarka, and Kékfrankos.  They produce even more than this, so if you prefer whites there are options.  Their varietals are dry and lend more towards a medium or full body with a good fruitiness and spice, which I personally love.  Pro Tip: If you don’t get to leave Budapest as we did, the wines suggested at local wine bars or paired with dinner were also great quality and value. Check out Doblo or Kadarka wine bars to taste all kinds of varietals.  4. Hungarian Wine is Affordable A nice glass of wine with dinner will set you back about $3.00 -$4.00 USD. And I’m not talking cheap happy hour red table wine.  The cost of a good bottle of wine at a major winery was between $10.00 – $25.00 USD. I can’t even remember the last time I spent less than $30 a bottle at a US winery, to be honest.  The value and quality were so good we managed to fit 2 bottles in our small carry on suitcases to bring back. Worth it! Pro Tip: If you plan to pack wine in a suitcase, pick up a few travel carry cases. I like these (Click to see them on Amazon) for their portability and ease of use. Also, bring extra plastic bags to wrap around them, juuuust in case. I’ve never picked my suitcase up from baggage claim stained red, and hopefully, you’ll never have to either.  5. It’s Rare Outside of Hungary If you live in the US or anywhere outside of Europe, your chances are slim for trying Hungarian wine.  I inquired at two major wine and liquor stores in Texas, both of which did not carry any. In Europe, you may be lucky as the 3% not consumed within the country is exported to neighboring countries.  If you love visiting and discovering wine regions that are still affordable and offer quality wine, Budapest and any of the regions above in Hungary are worth the visit.  Pro Tip: There is a group in Budapest that runs a wine tasting called “Tasting Table.” I didn’t get to visit them as they run a bi-weekly event on Thursday, and we were there on an off week. But, the cool thing is, they now have a program to ship Hungarian wines direct to US consumers. Check out their program here! (So you’re saying there’s a chance?!)  Are you ready to plan a trip to Hungary to try the wine? I want to visit again. Comment below if you have tried Hungarian wine, or if you plan to! Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links (we so appreciate your support), at no additional cost to you.

The post 5 Reasons Why You Need to Try Hungarian Wine appeared first on Plan to Explore.

]]>

Did you know that Hungary produces some pretty great wine? I didn’t until I started planning a trip to Budapest. 

I had Budapest on my bucket list because my maiden name, Takacs, is Hungarian, and I don’t know much about my history on that side. Once I learned Hungary produces quality wine, I was 100% convinced it was the next location we should visit!  

Eastern European affordability + beautiful city + quality wine = Ideal travel spot. 

Read on to learn a little bit more about Hungarian wine, the history, wine regions, and why you should visit to try it! 

(Click to read my full travel guide on Budapest where my story of learning more about my Maiden name continues!) 

1. The (Quick) Hungarian Wine History

Hungarian wine during the communist occupation was barely drinkable. 

Wine production during this time was based on quantity, not quality, as wineries were controlled by the state. If you tried wine in Hungary before 1989, chances are it was not good. 

Our winery tour guide told us he used to mix coca-cola with Hungarian wine, so it would taste decent. Yes, you heard that right. 

Once communism fell in 1989 the winemakers started to really focus on quality again. They wanted to enhance their wine to a higher standard and hoped it would increase the popularity, especially with Hungarians. 

Today, Hungarians love their wine, so much so that 97% of it is consumed within their own country. On our way out at the airport, the gentleman who checked our passports made sure we had tried their wine. He also told us white wine is typically for men, and red for women – Interesting! 

Pro Tip: Hungarians are crazy about their Rosé and consumption has had a major bump in the last few years. They also drink something called fröccs which is soda water mixed with wine, typically rosé. They claim this drink will keep you hydrated as you drink, the perfect summer drink. Bottoms up!

2. Hungary has Multiple Regions & Types of Wine for Everyone

Hungarian Winery
Beautiful Takler Winery in Szekszárd.

With 22 wine regions in one country, it’s hard to not find a varietal that you like. 

Below are the most prominent regions, including their location and travel time from Budapest. 

North of Budapest

Tokaj Region

  • Location: Northeast of Budapest, with the town of Tokaj as the center of the wine region. 
  • Drive Time: Approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Budapest. 
  • Varietals & Info: Tokaj is well known for its sweet dessert wine of the same name. If you’ve heard of or tried Hungarian wine before, it was most likely this one. 

Eger Region

  • Location: Also Northeast of Budapest. 
  • Drive Time: Approximately a 1 hour and 40 minute drive from Budapest. 
  • Varietals & Info: Known for its Cuvée varietals, they also produce Egri Csillag, and Egri Bikavér. 
 

South of Budapest

Lake Balaton Region

  • Location: Southwest of Budapest. 
  • Drive Time: Approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Budapest. 
  • Varietals & Info: This region produces full bodied whites with a hint of spice. There are a number of regions just within the lake area. Varietals to try include  Olaszrizling, Kéknyelű and Bakator. 

Szekszárd Region

  • Location: South of Budapest
  • Drive Time: Approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Budapest. 
  • Varietals & Info: One of the top red wine areas in the country. Wines you need to try include Kadarka, Kékfrankos, and Bikavér (and Rosé).  

Villány Region

  • Location: South of Budapest, close to the Croatian border. 
  • Drive Time: Approximately a 2 hour drive from Budapest. 
  • Varietals & Info: Almost a mediterranean climate, and very close to the Croatian border. Featuring full bodied spicy reds. French varietals do well here including Merlot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet. Also try Portugieser, or Schiller. 

Pro Tip: Unless you have a car, visiting wineries in these regions may prove difficult. I recommend scheduling a tour, but do your research.  A good guide should have knowledge of the areas, speak the language, and may take you to wineries that you would have never had access to. We booked our tour through Airbnb experiences – direct link here! 

3. Hungarian Red Wine is Fabulous

Hungarian Wine Tasting
Check out this wine cellar tasting room! It was designed to look like a chapel, not bad huh?

I had the fortunate experience of visiting the Szekszárd wine region in Southern Hungary. Just an hour and a half South of Budapest, we had a private tour of two wineries in the area.

Szekszárd is one of only two regions allowed to make and label Hungary’s infamous “Bull’s Blood” varietal, Bikavér (Eger is the other region). They also produce and we sampled, Rosé, Cab Franc, Kadarka, and Kékfrankos.  They produce even more than this, so if you prefer whites there are options. 

Their varietals are dry and lend more towards a medium or full body with a good fruitiness and spice, which I personally love. 

Pro Tip: If you don’t get to leave Budapest as we did, the wines suggested at local wine bars or paired with dinner were also great quality and value. Check out Doblo or Kadarka wine bars to taste all kinds of varietals. 

4. Hungarian Wine is Affordable

Hungarian Wine

A nice glass of wine with dinner will set you back about $3.00 -$4.00 USD. And I’m not talking cheap happy hour red table wine. 

The cost of a good bottle of wine at a major winery was between $10.00 – $25.00 USD. I can’t even remember the last time I spent less than $30 a bottle at a US winery, to be honest. 

The value and quality were so good we managed to fit 2 bottles in our small carry on suitcases to bring back. Worth it!

Pro Tip: If you plan to pack wine in a suitcase, pick up a few travel carry cases. I like these (Click to see them on Amazon) for their portability and ease of use. Also, bring extra plastic bags to wrap around them, juuuust in case. I’ve never picked my suitcase up from baggage claim stained red, and hopefully, you’ll never have to either. 

5. It's Rare Outside of Hungary

If you live in the US or anywhere outside of Europe, your chances are slim for trying Hungarian wine. 

I inquired at two major wine and liquor stores in Texas, both of which did not carry any. In Europe, you may be lucky as the 3% not consumed within the country is exported to neighboring countries. 

If you love visiting and discovering wine regions that are still affordable and offer quality wine, Budapest and any of the regions above in Hungary are worth the visit. 

Pro Tip: There is a group in Budapest that runs a wine tasting called “Tasting Table.” I didn’t get to visit them as they run a bi-weekly event on Thursday, and we were there on an off week. But, the cool thing is, they now have a program to ship Hungarian wines direct to US consumers. Check out their program here! (So you’re saying there’s a chance?!) 

Are you ready to plan a trip to Hungary to try the wine? I want to visit again. Comment below if you have tried Hungarian wine, or if you plan to!

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links (we so appreciate your support), at no additional cost to you.

The post 5 Reasons Why You Need to Try Hungarian Wine appeared first on Plan to Explore.

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