World Travel Guide To Budapest, Hungary

When planning a trip to Europe, most tourists would think about visiting Paris, London, or Madrid, among other famous destinations in the continent. However, there is one particular city in Central/Eastern Europe that is slowly but surely capturing tourists' attention and that is Hungarian capital city, Budapest. The major appeal of this world travel guide to Budapest is that it suits travelers across various budget range. From your daytime stroll and until the evening unfolds, this city seems to kick things into another gear, which is exactly why you must pay it a visit.

Budapest is home to many architectural landmarks, historic sites, shopping centers, nightlife, and lots of other entertainment. The best thing about visiting this city is that it has been noted by expert travel writers to be the biggest bargain among other European vacations. Thus, you can keep yourself occupied without even having to spend a penny.

You can start your journey in this world travel guide to Budapest by heading to the Castle District. The Castle Hill is always on the list of top places to visit in the city, wherein you can also find the Royal Palace and the Matthias Church. Both are noteworthy tourist destinations on their own, particularly for the historically inclined. The Castle District and the Danube Bridge in Budapest are both considered as world heritage sites because of the important role they had played in the history of the city, as well as its development. There are two public transportation methods that you can use when going to the Castle District: bus or funicular.

There are numerous events and festivals held in the Buda Castle Hill all throughout the year. Hence, it is best to plan your vacation so you can catch any of these events. But if you want to enjoy the solemnity of the place and avoid the rush of the crowd, make sure to drop by here mid-autumn or mid-spring.

The Chain Bridge is another iconic tourist attraction in Budapest, which spans the entire length of Danube River up until the foot of Castle Hill. It also served an important role in Budapest's history during the 19th century as it connected Buda with Pest. If you are looking for more historic explorations, visit the Pest side of Danube wherein you can find St. Stephen's Basilica and St. Stephen's Square. There is a massive plaza in front of the church that is sprawling with restaurants and cafes you can check out to sample local cuisines or simply watch the day go by.

For those who'd like to be in touch with nature, you can head on to the City Park of Budapest. This green field is located behind Heroes' Square, which is a perfect stop after some sightseeing. Within the park are many other attractions such as the City Lake, Budapest Zoo, Amusement Park, to name a few. Another green attraction in Budapest is the Margaret Island. This one is perfect choice of destination for family excursions as the flowery park offers a good view of the Danube River. But if you are into some nature hiking while experiencing a panoramic view of the city, check out Gellert Hill. This is cited by expert travel writers as the best spot for weekend outings, or a rendezvous spot for romantic picnics.

Finally, for a truly unique world travel guide to Budapest, try out one of their thermal baths for a healing and relaxing effect. What better way to end your day of strolling and frolicking than to dip your body in a thermal spring? There are many of these thermal baths and spas found all over Hungary, not just in Budapest, since they are known for their healing qualities.

World Travel Guide To Zurich, Switzerland

Switzerland is recognized as one of the most livable and progressive countries in the world. Hence, a visit to Zurich for a vacation is the best way to experience how it is like to live Swiss style. Indeed, travelers are fond of this city because it has an old glamour and modern city vibe rolled into one so you can experience the best of both worlds. Read more of this world travel guide to learn more about the best things that you can do while in the city.

Experience a trip down memory lane with some of Zurich's oldest historical sites. There are over 40 museums in the city that lets you get a first-hand look at famous historical or cultural artifacts. If you are interested to know a little bit about the history of Zurich, don't miss a trip to the Museum of Art or the Swiss National Museum. But if you are looking for a contemporary gallery, make sure to visit Zurich West. Meanwhile, delight in the stained glass windows and other art masterpieces of Chagall at the Church of Our Lady (Fraumunster) and The Great Church. Also, you should not miss Kunsthaus, which is a pre-eminent cultural landmark of Zurich wherein breathtaking artworks are on display in this gallery.

If you're in for some leisure, Zurich world travel guide suggests you visit the Zoological Garden. This modern zoo features exotic animals from various parts of the world. There are also different programs scheduled on the zoo daily, so you will have something new to look forward to with each visit. And if you like to marvel at nature's beauty and wonder, another must-see tourist attraction is Rhine Fallss. This is very accessible from Zurich and offers free admission. Thus, you have no reason to not check out Rhine Fallss, which is quite possibly one of the most awe-inspiring sights you could lay your eyes on.

And speaking of natural beauty, you don't want to miss a visit to the Swiss Alps when you have vacation in Zurich. It is ideal for tourists with active pursuits as you can do plenty of things here such as ski, hire, walk, or swim. Or, if you are a passive tourist, then you might want to savor the view of Uetilberg or Lindenhof.

If you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, check out some of Zurich's city beach resorts for a relaxing way to end your day. Strandbad Mythenquai is one of many resorts that are situated along the Lake Zurich wherein you can bathe in the sandy beach or head on out for swim. Another relaxing way to spend your day in Zurich is to head to Belvoir Park to have a picnic, or explore astronomical attractions via the huge telescope at the Urania Observatory.

Surprisingly, Zurich also offers a promising shopping adventure. Bahnhofstrasse is the most famous center in the city for world-class shopping and important banks. In fact, pedestrian would often clog the side street as they scour the shops looking for the best shopping deals. But if Bahnhofstrasse is out of your budget range, try the Burkliplatz flea market wherein you can find random goods to pick up.

As soon as you are done shopping, head to Zurich West where the party is at. There are a seemingly endless array of clubs in the area or drop by Niederdorf, which is also a well known neighborhood bustling with clubs and bars to hang out on. But here is one tip to keep in mind before you're tempted to go bar-hopping in Zurich: stick to one nightclub. The admission fee to these clubs can be quite steep and that is still exclusive of drinks.

Zurich is a charming, quaint city that fulfills its promise and offers more. Use this world travel guide to help plan your vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Experiencing Majestic Prague

Prague in Czech Republic has, for a long time, been shrouded in gothic mystique. But in a span of two decades or so, it has finally established itself as one of the must-visit cities in Europe, as well as the world over. It has slowly but surely built its name from a backpacker's secret to the ultimate tourist getaway in Central or Eastern Europe. There is a never-ending array of surprises that await you with a visit to Prague, so make sure to read more of this world travel guide to start planning your trip.

Here is the top ten things you can spend your time on for the ultimate Prague getaway:
  1. Go sightseeing. Prague is one of Europe's most picturesque cities with numerous architectural landmarks. Indeed, it seems as though the city is a fairy tale landscape that came to life. Make sure to bring your camera so you can capture and look back on these beautiful and astonishing views of the city. You have the option to explore the city yourself or participate in guided walking tours.
  2. Watch the sunrise/sunset at Charles Bridge. In 1357, King Charles IV commissioned for this bridge to be put up. This stunning bridge remains a huge part of Prague's history today and is often frequented by historically-inclined tourists wherein you can witness 30 Baroque statues. There is also a horde of vendors here flocked by tourists who want to sample local treats while enjoying the view of the Vltava River. To make the most of this experience, visit at dawn or dusk to watch the sunrise or sunset.
  3. Chug down some beer. Prague is best known for its beer, which is the best yet most affordable in Europe. Make sure to check out one of its many pubs to get a local sampling. This is the best way to get a taste of the local culture, literally.
  4. Experience the rough-and-rumble Prague nightlife. Fancy nightlife isn't the thing in Prague; rather, you will get a rough-and-rumble experience that is all about the drinks and beers served in plastic cups.
  5. Witness Cerny's controversial sculptures. David Cerny is Prague's most popular sculptures who has created a few controversial artworks. If you are interested to witness them first-hand, make sure to explore the city as you can find them sprawled throughout.
  6. Revel at the Old Town Square. Prague's Old Town Square managed to stay untouched despite several invasion attempts way back in the 10th century. Today, the site is filled with al fresco dining places and tourists admiring architectural landscapes and sights in the area. When you visit here, be treated to local musicians and dance troupes rounding the streets.
  7. Tour Petrin Hill. If you are looking to catch some fresh air, head on over to Petrin Hill. This is recognized as one of Prague's greenest sights wherein you can also experience its landscaped gardens, mirror maze, and a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower.
  8. Check out local music talent or shows. There is a wide array of opera houses, musical venues, and concert halls in Prague. Hence, this world travel guide would suggest you drop by one on your visit and experience its rich culture through music and performances.
  9. Dine Czech-style. The menus in Prague has caught up with the Europe's dining scene that it is slowly but surely being recognized in the gourmet world. To experience true-blue Czech cuisine, make sure to dine at Allegro (the first in Prague to earn a Michelin star), Alcron (for seafood fares), and Kampa Park (also known for its gourmet seafoods, and within close proximity to Charles Bridge).
  10. Revisit time at the Prague Castle. The Prague Castle is Europe's largest ancient castle, which is equal to 7 football fields in size. It has been around for 13 centuries and would take several days to finish exploring with its royal residences, churches, gardens, and other features within the castle grounds. Aside from the historical attractions within the castle, the architectural design is a beauty in itself.
This world travel guide of Prague in Czech Republic is only a summation of the best and recommended tourist spots in the city that you shouldn't miss. Try to explore the off-beaten track and more surprises would await you!