Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Mallorca is the largest and most enchanting of the Balearic islands.

The best and most budget-friendly time to visit is between March and April and September and November. Avoid peak season from June to August. Not only because prices skyrocket but also due to heavy tourism and intense heat.

Especially if you rely on public transport like us, getting stuck in traffic inside packed buses is no fun. Nor is wandering the old town of Palma in overrun streets or trying to find a free spot on the beach.

In this article I want to recount 10 days of adventure, absolutely stunning nature, local culture, history, and regional dishes – as always, all on a budget.

Budget Guide to Mallorca

How to get there?

Flying to Mallorca can be relatively cheap, with prices up to € 40, depending where you’re flying from. From our city, Prague, it’s generally more expensive but taking a bus to a nearby airport can be significantly cheaper: flights from Vienna go for under € 20.

Affordable European airlines offer deals starting at € 30-40. It’s worth tracking these fares in advance.

To reach Palma from the airport, take the direct bus route A1, which departs just outside the baggage claim area. The 30-minute ride costs € 5.

Where to stay?

We stayed in Palma Nova, which was pretty quiet in March. Our choice was based on budget options available at that time – a fully equipped studio with a kitchen and balcony for around € 50 per night, including a shuttle transfer.

However, if we would do it all over again, we’d prefer to stay in Palma or closer to it. Palma Nova is a typical resort town only becoming alive during high season. While it has nice beaches, it couldn’t outweigh the cons like longer travel times to reach destinations nearby Palma.

Budget accommodation:
Dorm beds:
€ 15–25 per night → low season / weekdays
€ 25–35 per night → weekends, summer, events
Private room in a hostel
€ 30–50 per night (sometimes cheaper midweek)
Studio apartment
€ 25-€ 60 per night → low season / weekdays
€ 40-€ 80 per night → weekends, summer, events

Still the biggest downside was the lack of nightlife and events to meet people and socialize. Something we pay normally attention to when traveling. For solo travelers or those seeking social connections, a hostel or guesthouse in Palma might be a better choice.

Food

As usual we prefer accommodations with a kitchen so we can prepare our own meals. Occasionally we would eat out with the exception of coffee places. A freshly brewed cafe con leche is worth the splurge – guaranteed.

Prices, especially in touristic places like Palma or Sóller, are on the higher side, even local pastries and sandwiches (boccadillos) from bakeries are quite pricey.

A tip is to buy them at local supermarkets selling them at a lower price.

Daily food expenses:
Budget lunch or street food meal: ~ € 5 – € 10
Bakeries (sandwiches/pastries): ~ € 3 – € 7
Mid-range Restaurant meal: ~ € 15 – € 25
Coffee (basic): ~ € 1.50 – € 3
Draft beer (per glass): ~ € 3 – € 5
Bottled beer: ~ € 2.50 – € 4.50
Local wine or beer (per glass): ~ € 3 – € 5
Total daily: ~€ 15 – € 30

How to get around?

Public transportation is affordable and efficient. The buses in Palma are the EMT buses, and the TIB buses are the inter-city buses covering the rest of the island.

They can be distinguished by color and payment methods: EMT buses come in blue/white and tickets can only be bought in cash, whereas TIB buses are yellow/red. The preferred way of payment is via tapping your contactless bank card when you get on and tapping it again when you get off. The fare is capped at a maximum limit at around € 5.

Transportation:
Airport transfer (bus): € 5
Single ride: € 2-4
Bicycle rental: € 10 – € 20 per day

Best Things to do

Let’s start in Palma, capital and oldest town of Mallorca. With a rich history dating back over 1,000 years, Palma boasts a unique blend of medieval and modern architecture and cultural landmarks.

Palma cathedral

The cathedral, also known as La Seu, has a vibrant history witnessing the rise and fall of different religions and rulers. Founded in the 13th century by the Moorish rulers, it was transformed into a Gothic cathedral after the Christian conquest led by King James I of Aragon.

Castell de Bellver

The 14th century Gothic fortress is the second most iconic landmark after the cathedral. Perched on a hilltop, it can be spotted from the western part of Palma.

What stands out is the unique circular shape being ahead of its time. It offers one of the most beautiful views of Palma and the Tramuntana mountains, earning its name Bellver (beautiful view).

You can either take the bus or walk there in about an hour. After visiting the castle, we took a loop walk through the castle gardens.

Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Located next to La Seu cathedral, the Almudaina Palace has an equally fascinating history. Originally a Moorish alcázar (fortress) built on a Roman base, it was later transformed into a summer residence for the Spanish Royal Family.

We enjoyed strolling around the Palace gardens, adorned with orange trees, fountains and roses.

Mercat de L’Olivar

Mallorca’s largest indoor food market is a perfect place for sampling local, organic produce, fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, meats, wines but also for buying flowers and spices.

There are plenty of food stalls serving tapas, oysters, and other local delicacies, ideal to sit down and have a lunch break. The name Olivar is derived from the Spanish word for „olive“.

Museum

Free museums are excellent ways to learn about local arts and culture. The Museu Fundación Juan March, located right in the historic center of Palma focuses on contemporary Spanish art from recent decades.

If you have more time, head out to the Joan Miro museum/ former residence of the famous Spanish artist.

Old town

The old town of Palma features a blend of early 20th century Art Noveau (Modernisme in Catalan) and Art Deco architecture alongside Gothic and Baroque buildings.

Although the movement originated in Barcelona, it made it all the way to the Balearic islands. Two notable examples include Can Forteza Rey and Casa de las Medias designed by the same architect Josep Forteza Rey, located on opposite sides of a narrow alley.

First thought that comes to mind marveling at the facade, the balconies and the windows is Gaudi’s playful style: pastel colors, broken mosaic tiles, wrought iron for the balcony railings and unusual geometric shapes.

Es Jonquet fisher village

Es Jonquet is a historic fisherman’s village located on the edge of Palma by the bay in the Santa Catalina neighborhood. Its highlights include three historic windmills, offering a glimpse into Mallorca’s maritime past.

Also don’t miss out on the street art that depicts what looks like typical everyday life in the community.

Street Art

Since I visited Berlin and fell in love with its street art, I make it a habit to check out street art wherever I go. Sometimes it’s easy to sport cool pieces, other times it takes more effort because they’re well hidden or even missing at all.

This eye-catching mural was painted by Mallorcan artist, José Luis Mesas, on the facade of Hotel Artmadans.

Another memorable piece was an upside-down church.

West coast

The Serra de Tramuntana, designated a UNESCO world heritage site, is a top destination for  outdoor enthusiasts. It’s characterized by rugged terrain, scenic valleys, and picturesque villages. The famous long-distance GR221 dry stone route winds right through, making it perfect for hiking and cycling.

Sóller

Sóller is famous for its ancient train line connecting the mountain region with the city of Palma since 1912. The wooden carriages tell of a time when Mallorca was a lot more rural.

We were equally enchanted by the historic town square, Plaça Constitució, with the Church of Sant Bartomeu.

If you venture a little out of Sóller, you’ll find several trails passing through mountain villages lined by orange and citrus plantations, a remnant of the time when Sóller was a trading center for citrus fruits in the 19th century.

Sóller is a place where you can easily forget time and let your mind wander. The views of the Tramuntana mountains are out of this world, and I caught myself dreaming of buying a plot of land to grow my own lemons.

Even months later, I keep thinking of this little paradise among lemon trees, cypresses and pines.

Fornalutx

From Sóller it’s just a short scenic walk to Fornalutx, a charming mountain village nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, offering stunning views.

Be prepared to climb. Countless stone steps will lead you higher and higher with even greater views.

Deiá

Deià captivates visitors with its charming views of orange orchards, colorful landscapes and there’s even a high chance that cats will cross your paths.

If you follow the main road and continue all the way up, you’ll pass a church with a cemetery. Here we discovered a hidden gem.

On the front side you’ll find the notably best panoramic view of the village where mountains and the Mediterranean Sea meet.

Port Andratx to Sant Elm

Just a half-hour drive from Palma, Port d’Andratx is a marina full of yachts and boats. But our highlight was a serene landscape just when you get off the bus.

We spent some time marveling at  the lush scenery of a river meandering through grassland framed by mountains.

We spent the day hiking on the trail to Sant Elm. The trail starts at the port, continues uphill through residential areas and forests to reach scenic cliffs and the beach of Sant Elm.

We didn´t make it all the way to Sant Elm. However, we were able to catch beautiful panoramic views of Mallorca’s west coast.

Esporles: Hiking to Cor de Jesús

Planning to hike to Cor de Jesús above Esporles, we underestimated the terrain’s difficulty and weather conditions on that day.

The pilgrim’s path becomes quickly pretty steep and muddy after rain. Luckily we brought our ponchos and the dense trees provided enough shelter.

The summit offers a panoramic view of the Tramuntana valley, though in our case obscured by fog and rain.

We enjoyed this hike very much as it led through some villages which looked even more enchanting with the veil of fog.

East Coast: Santanyi

Our main reason to visit Santanyi was its renowned street market, held every Wednesday and Saturday. We read that it’s one of the best markets on the island and it didn’t disappoint.

As we strolled through the orange sand stone alleys we kept discovering stalls selling local produce, clothing and handicrafts.

Afterwards, we headed out into the hinterlands to explore some of Mallorca’s rockier coasts.

Our first stop was Cala Santanyi, a white sand beach with turquoise water, surrounded by resorts. We continued our hike along the coast exploring the rocks of Cala Llombards.

The cliffs were spectacular and the views from above even more so.

This trip was one of our favorites, combining stunning ocean views with some unexpected rock climbing.

Tapas and sweets

While we stay mindful of our budget and avoid splurging on eating out, we still want to experience the flavors of the local cuisine. So, we make it a point to try some traditional dishes wherever we go.

Just like anywhere in Spain, tapas are a must in Mallorca. There are plenty of vegetarian options too, like this delicious mushroom tapas.

If you’re craving something sweet, also perfect for breakfast, you should try an Ensaïmada.

It’s shaped like a cinnamon roll and made from wheat flour, sugar, eggs, and the special ingredient that gives it its name: lard, or „saïm“ in Catalan.

Conclusion

From exploring historic towns and vibrant markets to hiking in the Tramuntana mountains and discovering hidden coastal gems, there’s something for every budget traveler.

For a well-rounded experience of Mallorca, I recommend spending at least 4 to 7 days during off-peak times.

When I visited Leipzig for the first time, little did I know how fond I would grow of this Eastern Germany city, making me crave to come back.

What stands out for me is how green it is, with countless parks and even lakes. I like the bike culture and the vibrant art scene hosting many events throughout the year – one of the main reasons I keep returning. Add to that a rich history and an alternative vibe, and you get a city that has inspired some of the greatest minds: Goethe, Wagner, Bach, just to name a few.

But that is far from all. On a personal note, Leipzig is this special place I was unconsciously longing for – a place that makes me feel like I could start again, become a new version of myself, ditch my old life, and immerse myself into a new adventure. I’m not sure if this will ever materialize, but for now, I enjoy returning and imagining how I would ride my bike along the canal, attend one of the festivals, or hop on a train for a hike in the surrounding forests.

In this article I want to recall my memories and offer a list of places and things that I appreciate about this city. And as usual – all on a budget.

Budget Guide to Leipzig

How to get there?

Traveling from Prague, you can get to Leipzig by train or bus, with the latter being the most affordable option. The journey takes around 4 hours.

Transportation from Prague:
Flixbus: from 15 EUR
Train: from 20 EUR

Where to stay?

Hostel Multitude and Wombat’s Hostel have both been great places to stay. The first one is a little out of the way and requires taking a tram, while the latter is within walking distance of the city center.

Budget accommodation:
Dorm beds:
€18–25 per night → low season / weekdays
€25–35 per night → weekends, summer, events
Private room in a hostel
€45–65 per night (sometimes cheaper midweek)

Food

Eating out in Leipzig very much depends on your spending habits. If you want to stay within a tight budget, a hostel with a kitchen is the way to go. Otherwise, there is plenty of good and affordable street food.

Daily food expenses:
Budget lunch or street food meal: under €15
Bakeries (sandwiches/pastries): ~ €3 – €7
Lunch menu (‘Mittagsmenü’): ~ €10 – €12
Coffee (basic): around €2.50 – €4
Beer in bar (0.5 L): ~ €4
Total daily: ~€20 – €30

How to get around?

You should opt for a 24-hour ticket if you don’t have much time to walk or rent a bike.

Transportation in Leipzig:
Single ride: € 3.60 (1h)
Day ticket: €10.20
Sachsen ticket: €35 for single (increasing by €8 for each additional person, max. 5 people)

If you want to explore the surroundings of Leipzig, there’s a ticket called the Sachsen Ticket, which is valid throughout Saxony. There are group tickets available for up to five people, increasing by a fixed rate for each additional person. I used it to visit some lesser-known cities like Meissen (famous for its porcelain) and Halle (Saale).

Best Things to do

Breathe in the spirit of the revolution

Most people in Germany and abroad remember the dramatic TV scenes capturing the fall of the Berlin wall: people climbing the Berlin wall, hugging one another, and celebrating freedom. Meanwhile, the protests that led to this historical breakthrough are often lesser known.

St. Nicholas church was the starting point of the so-called Peaceful Revolution. People who hoped for an end to communism would meet at the church under the guise of prayer to share their resentment and mobilize citizens to take matters into their own hands.

On October, 9th, 1989, the peace protests left the church and moved into the streets. Despite heavily armed police forces, tens of thousands of people joined, chanting „We are the people!“.

The march ended at the local Stasi administration office, which is a museum today. Just one month later, the Berlin Wall fell, marking a stepping stone toward the reunification of Germany on October, 3rd, 1990.

Take a bike ride

Biking culture is a big part of everyday life here. The bicycle lane network is very well developed and used noticeably. There is even a growing popularity of cargo bikes, used for moving heavy loads like furniture, shopping, equipment and even children

No wonder Leipzig made it into the ranking of the 20 most bike-friendly cities in the world.

Check out some Free museums

For me, traveling and visiting local museums and galleries go hand in hand. Whenever I arrive at a new destination, I check out all the free museums, galleries, or free visiting days.

Museums become my introduction to the culture and history of a place. It doesn’t have to be a history museum. Any museum will do.

Luckily, Leipzig proved to be one of those places with an abundance of free museums and venues. The Museum of Contemporary History (Zeitgeschichtliches Forum) is my favorite free museum, followed by the Museum in der Runden Ecke, former headquarters of the Stasi (East German secret police).

Walking through the Naturkunde Museum, Museum of Natural Sciences, reminded me of elementary school field trips, with their classic glass vitrines and neatly labeled displays of local flora and fauna.

Visit Karl-Liebknecht-Straße

If you want to experience what makes people compare Leipzig to Berlin, visit the area around Karl-Liebknecht-Straße. Locals affectionately refer to it as Karli.

It’s more than just a street – it’s an entire district filled with culture, arts, restaurants, cafes, and bars. There’s something for everyone. Just keep in mind to carry some cash or ask beforehand if card payment is accepted. Each time I travel to Germany, I’m surprised that cash is still the preferred way of paying.

Hang out at the Creative hub Feinkost

Located right on Karl-Liebknecht-Straße, look out for a courtyard filled with creativity, good vibes, and a diverse cultural program.

It has such a cool history that you will not believe it at first. Founded as a brewery, the so-called „Feinkost“ became a canned food production site in the 1920s. During the GDR era, it was known as the „VEB Feinkost Leipzig“.

After the German reunification, it stood abandoned for a long time until members of the creative scene revived it in 2004 and preserved it as a cultural site.

Today, labeled as „Kunst- und Gewerbegenossenschaft Feinkost eG„, the site has been transformed into a creative hub. There’s a flea market every first Saturday of the month, an open-air cinema in summer, and many other events throughout the year.

One highlight is a particular neon sign on a nearby building. Keep reading to learn more.

Check out the Neon sign Löffelfamilie

Exploring the area around „Feinkost“, you can’t miss to notice an awkward neon sign covering the facade of a building. It depicts a family sitting at a table, devouring a soup. Hence the name: Löffelfamilie, meaning spoon family.

As strange as it sounds, it’s a historical relic from the GDR and is now declared a cultural monument. According to a popular theory, former Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito once visited Leipzig and remarked to GDR leader Erich Honecker how colorless the city looked. This allegedly triggered the commission of the neon sign for the food company „VEB Feinkost Leipzig“ in 1973.

After reunification, the sign was abandoned until it was protected as a cultural monument. The cool thing is that anyone can help keep it alive by sending an SMS to a designated number. The donation goes directly to the organization maintaining the sign, and you’re rewarded with a three-minute light show.

Wander around Clara Zetkin and Johanna Park

This is probably the most popular city park and that for a good reason. It’s a bicycle ride away from anywhere really, and having a bike is highly recommended if you plan to meet friends for a picnic, as the park is huge. But it’s absolutely worth it.

In fact, I spent here most of my time wandering the trails, sitting by the canal or resting in the shade of a tree. Out of all the parks I’ve visited in German cities, Clara Zetkin and adjacent Johanna Park are dearest to me.

Sometimes you can hear live music. Especially on the Sachsenbrücke, a popular sport for street musicians. If you want to explore more of Leipzig’s greenery, the trails continue into the Auwald Floodplain Forest.

Discover Kulturwerkstatt KAOS

This place is a real hidden gem, I guarantee you. I didn’t expect to find such a magical place while staying in Lindenau. I followed a trail into what felt like a forest and was completely mesmerized.

Surrounded by nature stood a villa right out of a fairy tale which upon further research happens to be the former residence of Leipzig’s oldest brewery entrepreneur „Friedrich August Ulrich“.

Built in 1870, this historical gem has seen many transformations. During the GDR era, it was used by pioneers, and today it serves as a vibrant youth and education center.

KAOS stands for „Kunst, Aktion, Objekte, and Spiel“ – art, action, objects, and games. The center encourages children and young adults to come together, learn, and express themselves creatively while promoting environmental awareness.

Furthermore, the center hosts a variety of cultural events, especially in summer. One highlight is the „Seeklang Festival,“ an outdoor music festival that takes place right by the Ulrichsteich pond.

I spent many blissful hours here, enjoying the lush scenery and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. This moment was undoubtedly the highlight of my stay, and I would return in a heartbeat.

Visit the Monument to the Battle of the Nations

One of the largest battles in world history took place in Leipzig in 1813, between Napolean’s troops and the allied forces from Russia, Prussia, Austria, and Sweden. This battle marked a turning point, ending Napoleon’s long period of dominance.

Standing in front of the monument you will be impressed by its colossal dimensions, reflected in the so-called „Lake of Tears“. You can truly feel the weight of history here.

The monument consists of a crypt commemorating fallen soldiers, a hall of fame, and an observation deck.

The hall of fame was the most alluring section with its four massive statues symbolizing the virtues of the German people in the time of the Liberation wars: bravery, faith, national strength, and willingness to make sacrifices. You can easily lose time here wandering around and reflecting on the events that took place on these grounds.

To top it off, you can climb to the viewing platform for panoramic views over Leipzig and the surrounding countryside – just be prepared for a steep and narrow staircase.

Sit by the Karl Heine Canal or rent a kayak

I already covered how to explore Leipzig on foot or bike, but how about a third option? Discovering the city from the water.

The Karl Heine Canal runs from Lindenau harbor to the Weiße Elster river. It got its name from industrial pioneer „Carl Heine“ who established a shipping route from Weiße Elster river to Saale river.

A popular activity, especially during the warmer months, is to rent a kayak from the city harbor.

The best view of the canal is from the König-Albert-Brücke. Walking along the canal often leads you into Plagwitz, a former industrial district that later attracted artists and alternative communities. Today, it’s a mix of hip and cozy, filled with cafés, galleries, and thrift stores.

Visit the Coffee Baum Museum

Did you know that Germany’s oldest and Europe’s second-oldest coffee house is in Leipzig? Opened in 1711, it’s called „Zum Arabischen Coffee Baum“ (“The Arabian Coffee Tree”).

The trade logo depicts an Arab man sitting by a coffee tree, handing a cup of coffee to an angel like boy. A gift from the Orient to the Western world.

The building houses a café on the ground floor and a free museum upstairs that explores the history, production, and cultural significance of coffee. Many famous figures frequented this place – including Johann Sebastian Bach, who was inspired here to compose his Coffee Cantata.

Get enchanted by Goethe’s Faust

Goethe came to Leipzig as a student, and it was here that he wrote parts of „Faust“. One famous scene is set in a wine cellar, „Auerbach’s Keller“, turning Leipzig into a pilgrimage site for literature lovers.

As soon as you enter, you will be pulled right into a scene of the book:

Dr Faustus visits the wine cellar with some of his students. Meanwhile he had made a pact with the devil Mephistopheles. All of the named characters are on display as statues re-enacting the famous wine barrel-ride.

Goethe was inspired by a folk-tale of a scholar who sold his soul to the devil in exchange for youth and power.

Explore Leipzig’s lakes

Leipzig has surprisingly many lakes, making it worth returning during bathing season. So far, I’ve explored Cospudener lake and the Kulkwitzer lake.

Lake Cospuden’s nickname is: Cossi. It’s a former open-cast mining now a lake. It has a sandy beach with a beach volleyball field. It just takes half an hour by bike to get there.

Kulki is derived from Kulkwitzer See, the other lake I visited. It’s a 45-minutes bike ride and much bigger than Cossi, with diving and water sports activities.

Pay tribute to Bach

If Goethe was Leipzig’s most famous resident writer, Johann Sebastian Bach was its most renowned composer and organ master. Unlike Goethe he was born in Leipzig and spent almost his entire life as a choirmaster at the St Thomas church.

He was particularly successful at writing cantatas, delivering one almost weekly. But many people don’t know that he was also technically skilled in inspecting organs.

The picture of the bust was taken in Coethen where his son was working as an organ master.

There is a funny link between Bach and the Coffee Baum. As mentioned earlier many famous personalities frequented Leipzig’s oldest coffee house, so did Bach. While sipping coffee, he came up with a composition dedicated to the beloved hot brew: the Coffee Cantata.

Explore the Botanical garden

Did you know that Leipzig has the oldest botanical garden in Germany? Founded in 1542 by the Leipzig university, Germany’s second oldest university right after the university of Heidelberg.

Initially a medicinal garden for medical students, it evolved into a vast collection of plants from around the world. If you haven’t noticed yet: I’m a huge fan of botanical gardens and try to include them in my travel itineraries.

The admission to the outdoor spaces is completely free, you just pay a small fee for the green houses and exhibitions.

This place is especially perfect in summer to escape the heat and enjoy some tranquillity.

Conclusion

Leipzig blends history with creativity, nature with urban life, and feels like a city I could move to right away. I will remember the bike rides, walks by the canals, hidden courtyards, and peaceful moments in the botanical garden and parks.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget, interested in culture, or simply looking for a place that feels alive and authentic, Leipzig has a way of staying with you long after you leave.

And maybe, like me, you’ll keep coming back – if only to imagine what life could look like here.

Malta is an island nestled between Sicily and the North African coast. A guarantee for great weather, all year round. Even in December and January, the time we visited, we were happy we brought our sunglasses and packed light.

We stayed for 10 days and could have easily stayed longer as there is plenty to do and see.

Malta is not your typical island – there is a plethora of activities and experiences beyond sun-soaked beaches. Ancient temples, medieval forts and fascinating landscapes will keep you on your toes.

While Malta may not be the most budget-friendly, we managed to keep our expenses in check. In this Budget Guide we’ll break down our costs but also share some of the highlights the island has to offer.

Budget Guide to Malta

We took a direct and quite affordable flight from Prague to Malta which cost us €139.33 per person.

Groceries are surprisingly reasonably priced and the supermarkets have a decent selection considering Malta is an island. Much like in the rest of Europe, prices in Malta have gone up a lot in 2023. Many restaurant menus you’ll find online are outdated and you should expect to add a few euros to every menu item you see.

Eating and drinking out is very expensive here and luckily our accommodation always came with a well-equipped kitchen. We did visit some restaurants and even when eating on a budget, you can’t expect to eat for under €10.

We stayed in Malta for 11 days (10 nights). With €41.88 per person per day, Malta was one of the more expensive destinations we visited. However, we were not on a strict budget and we could have spent less. Here is a breakdown of our spending:

11 days in Malta:
Accommodation (10 nights):
€272.32 total
= €24.76 per night
= €12.38 per person per night
Bars:
€57.80 total
= €5.78 per day
= €2.89 per person per day
Transportation:
€44.3 total
€4.43 per day
€2.22 per person per day
Eating out:
€149.55 total
€14.96 per day
€7.48 per person per day
Entrance fee (Ġgantija):
€20 (total)
Shopping:
€193.22 total
€19.32 per day
€9.66 per person per day
Total:
€921.36 (excluding flights)
€83.76 per person
€41.88 per person per day

Here are prices of some everyday 2024 items:

Apples: €2.89 per kilo
Beer (pub): €4
Beer (shop): €1.16
Coffee (americano): €1.80
Ftira: €5
Instant noodles: €0.64
Pastizzi: €0.55
Pasta (restaurant): €12.50 for the cheapest dish
Water (1l): €0.37 + €0.10 deposit

Where to stay?

We split our stay between: St Julian’s, Sliema and 2 nights on the island of Gozo (Victoria). If you plan to visit Malta for the first time, we can recommend to stay somewhere between Sliema and Valletta (though on the higher side). From there you can reach other destinations fairly easy via the public transport.

This is why it’s not necessary to change accommodation if you just intend to stay in Malta.

Accommodation:
Private room (Hostel Malti): €307.90 (total 7 nights) = €22 per person per night
Private room (Roma Hotel): €59.60 (total 2 nights) = €14.90 per person per night

How to get around the island?

Public transportation is severely lacking on Malta. There was no bus connection from the airport when we arrived in the evening. The only way to get from the airport is to take a taxi. Specifically, using the Bolt app is recommended by the locals. Our ride to St. Julian’s cost €12.90 according to the Bolt app, but only €5 was taken from our account – maybe there was some sort of discount?

Buses in Malta are completely unreliable. Once, we waited for an hour for the bus to come. If you don’t get on the bus on one of the first few stops, you will probably wait in vain. The buses were always packed full of people so the driver no longer stopped unless it was to let people get off – and this was in the low season. We walked to the Ross square in St. Julian’s to buy a 12-journey bus ticket (€15). This was one of very few places where you can find a ticket machine. You can buy a ticket from the driver otherwise.

Transportation:
Bolt (taxi) from airport to St. Julian’s: €5
12-journey bus ticket: €15 (per person)

Best Things to do

Our Malta trip was a mix of culture and outdoor adventure. Here is our list of Best things to do in Malta.

Visit the capital Valletta

The skyline of Valletta is probably one of the most photographed motifs of the island. Located on a peninsula, surrounded by medieval fortified walls, Valletta resembles a fortress rising high above the sky.

Inside the fortress you can explore different historical buildings and sites like the Saint John’s Co-Cathedral or the Barakka gardens. There are two parts: the upper and the lower gardens.

To reach the upper gardens you need to climb up the stairs leading up to the walls. You can also take an elevator for 1 euro. The viewing platform overlooks the grand harbor with the famous Three Cities. This is where the knights of St. John lived while they built Valletta. Don’t miss the information board mapping several Games of Thrones filming locations. Some are in direct vicinity, others spread around Malta.

Once you’re done marveling, head to the lower gardens to relax on one of the benches alongside the fortified walls. The views are equally stunning. This is also the ideal place on sunny days to seek some shade under a tree.

Floriana gardens

Surprisingly, we found the most nature in and around Valletta. One of the reasons why we kept coming back during our stay.

Especially one garden had a lasting impression on us – the Argotti Botanical Garden in Floriana. We were not prepared to find this piece of heaven in Valletta’s neighboring town – Floriana. It’s a mix of park and botanical garden with a collection of indigenous and exotic plants, among them many succulents and even a banyan tree. There is an enchanting fountain and some interesting sculptures.

Right below the gardens you can continue your tour to St Philip’s gardens standing on a viewing platform.

Manoel Island

One of the best viewpoints of the Valletta skyline is from Manoel island. The island is a walking distance from Sliema and Gżira. You can reach it by crossing a bridge.

The island is famous for Fort Manoel, which was built during the time of the Order of St. John.

St Julian’s

This is the place where most visitors stay alongside Valletta and Sliema. It’s filled with plenty cafes, restaurants and bars. We spent many evenings at Spinola bay, sitting on a bench by the water or walking by the promenade lit by soft lantern light.

If you want to include some exercise into your trip, you can follow the promenade along the coast all the way to Gżira (7 km). Or at least to Sliema.

Mosta

The Mosta dome (Rotunda of Mosta) was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and is famous for being the third largest unsupported dome in Europe. It’s really impressive imagining the colossal dome spanning from one side to the other without being stabilized by pillars.

While doing your research or visiting the interior you’ll learn about the miracle of Mosta. During WWII, a bomb was dropped on the church while a large crowd took shelter. Luckily the bomb didn’t detonate and from that day on, the miracle was celebrated.

As we had more time to spare we decided to walk around, even leaving the town and entering the countyside. We came across a valley where parts of the Victoria trails passed through.

Mdina and Rabat

Mdina became known as the silent city after it stopped being the capital of Malta and many people left. But there is more to it. Noise in general is not well received by the residents. That’s why cars are prohibited in the old town and even visitors respect the silent treat.

Game of Thrones fans can keep an eye out to spot Kings Landing (just the first season was shot here, the rest in Dubrovnik).

Already when we arrived at the bus stop in Mdina, we were enchanted by the calm atmosphere and naturally adopted it. Walking quietly between the high sandstone walls, marveling at picturesque doorways and staircases, or taking a rest on a bench or at a café will give you a nice break if you come from Valletta, Sliema or St. Julian.

Rabat is just a short walk from Mdina, and appears to be more lively. There were souvenir shops and cafes. Our highlight was this little courtyard close to the St. Paul’s catacombs. It belongs to a monastery and gave us some really meditative vibes.

Megalithic temples

The megalithic temples of Malta (Ġgantija, Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba, Ta‘ Ħaġrat, and Tarxien) belong the UNESCO world heritage and are older than the Pyramids. To visit at least one of these sites is a must-do in Malta.

We did our research and chose to visit Ġgantija as we anyways planned to include Gozo on our trip. On top of that, it’s the second oldest man-made structure on earth.

We stayed in Victoria from where we could walk all the way to the site. It consists of a visitor center where you can buy the tickets and learn about the Neolithic period. How the people lived. What they harvested. How they dressed. The most interesting are the crafts and small sculptures that could be preserved. Among them is a collection of limestone figures depicting human faces and bodies.

Once you made it to the last exhibition post, you can leave the visitor center and head to the Temple complex which consists of two temples, each built in another time period, 700 years apart (3600 BC, 2900 BC).

The term „megalithic“ derives from the giant slab stones found in different sections of the construction, believed built by Giants. Especially those at the entrance are impressive, as well as those in the back, presumed to have served as altars to sacrifice animals and potions to the deities. You’ll also encounter perfect shaped holes.

When you walk towards the temples, you will see what looks like one complex. Only from the front side you can see that there are two separate entrances. Take your time to explore the interior as there are many interesting details and facts to read on the information posts.

Worthy to note is also the scenic panorama surrounding the whole site. On our way to the temples we passed some laid-back villages and enjoyed stunning views of the countryside.

Gozo

To get to Gozo island, you need to take the bus to Ċirkewwa from where the ferry departs. The ferry tickets (return included) cost €4.65 and can be purchased at the ticket office there.

The ferry ride lasts 20 minutes and can be either enjoyed sitting inside the cabin or on deck. Keep in mind to bring a scarf or hat to protect from the wind.

Once you arrive in Mġarr at the harbor, you can take a bus to Victoria. We booked a room in Victoria for 2 nights from where we explored the island on our feet.

The main attraction is the 16th century medieval fortress Ċittadella, proclaimed UNESCO world heritage.

We were not prepared for the mesmerizing views from the walls of the fortress. This was one of the best sunset views we ever experienced. The sun illuminated the honey-colored walls and towers in such a spectacular way that we couldn’t take our eyes away from it.

We kept climbing up the winding stairs and exploring the maze of alleys and squares.

While spending time in Victoria we explored the countryside without any transportation. If you follow the road out of town, you’ll see a road leading up a hill. This was the way to Ġgantija. The only challenging part was climbing up the hill. However, you can take little breaks and enjoy the stunning views of the island panorama. In fact, this was the most memorable part of our Gozo trip.

Gozo:
Gozo-Malta ferry (return): €4.56
Private accommodation: €55.46 (total 2 nights) = €13.87 per person per night
Entrance to Ġgantija & Ta Kola: €10 (per person)

Pastizzi and sweets

The traditional savory pastry is filled with either ricotta or mushy peas. They’re not only cheap but won over our hearts.

Especially, if you’re in Valletta, check out the food stalls on the main square by the Tritoni fountain.

If you want to try out sweet pastry, Imqaret, a traditional date biscuit, will be easy to find. It goes well with a coffee or tea.

Conclusion

Traveling Malta during the European winter will throw you back into late summer days. That alone is a good reason to visit the island. Although it can rain occasionally and the wind can be stronger, the overall climate is very pleasant. Plus, it’s less crowded and you can find more affordable flights and accommodation.

There are some caveats to look out for: pay attention to the traffic and if possible avoid busy streets. Protect yourself from the sun by using sun screen and staying in the shade. Additionally, if you’re relying on public transportation, ensure you allow ample time for potential delays.

Despite these few considerations, Malta has some memorable moments in store that won’t strain your wallet too much.

Prague ranks high on the list of top travel destinations in Europe. Most travel guides and online resources focus on the main attractions like the Charles bridge, the old town and other central sights.

We want to take you on a ride to some of the lesser featured corners of the city.

We hope there is at least one place in this article that you haven’t explored yet. Let us know in the comments your hidden and unusual places in Prague.

Umělecká zahrada – Art garden

The art garden in Nusle is one of Prague’s hidden gems. And that for a reason. It’s not officially open to the public and you can only enter the premises during one of the Open days events, like the Open House Praha event. That’s how we discovered this magical place. However it seems that there’s a possibility to arrange a visit through their website.

The garden is full of sculptures of which some are rather of a bizarre sight. Especially one caught our attention – the statue of a mythical creature, half human half water god.

If you know the beer brand Radegast or get the chance to get a look at it while you’re in Prague, you will see the very same mythical creature on the beer cans and bottles. Only after doing some research, we found out that the aforementioned beer is named after the pagan Slavic god Radegast. And several statues of this iconic god were created in the art studio located at this site.

Karel Novák founded the studio in the 1920s. He was joined by a group of talented sculptors who contributed to some of Prague’s famous large-scale statues.

Some examples are the memorial to Jan Hus on the Old Town Square, the Woodrow Wilson monument at Prague’s main train station or the statue of Jan Žižka at the National Memorial at Vítkov Hill.

All these masterpieces contributed to the studio’s rise to fame, which lasted for 30 years until Communism cast a shadow over the nation leading to the destruction of the studio and the surrounding garden.

Even today, you can still see some statues with chopped off heads. After the Velvet Revolution, the studio and the garden returned to the family of Karel Novák and they sold it to someone else who has since been working on restoring the place to its former glory.

Apart from creating large figurative sculptures, his studio also produced a range of other products, including tiles, garden pavilions, fountains, staircases and flower pots, which were showcased in the garden surrounding the studio.

Cross Club

Even if you keep a low profile on nightlife activities, you should pay a visit to Cross Club, located in Holešovice.

The very sight of the unique industrial and steampunk inspired design of the building and outdoor area is worth your time. The multicultural venue harbors bars, indoor stages, a theater, a restaurant and a café.

Our personal highlight is the multi-layered terrace stretching over all 3 floors. Especially when the lights are turned on, the terrace blinks in a myriad of colors. It’s truly a place out of this world – maybe a glimpse of what the future will look like.

Troja palace and garden

The district of Troja is situated along the Vltava river and offers 3 major attractions: the Troja Chateau with outdoor garden, the Prague Zoo and the Botanical Garden. In this article we’ll cover all of them. So stay tuned.

The Troja park compound stretches over many acres harboring a flower garden with fountains, an apple orchard with a labyrinth inside, a theater and a pergola.

The centerpiece is a 17th century baroque castle which was named after the ancient city of Troja. The infamous battle between the Olympic gods and the Titans is told by statues which are displayed on the double-flight staircase leading to the gardens beneath.

Worth mentioning are the stunning terracotta vases dotted on the walls of the terrace. If you want to know the symbolical meaning of all the statues and busts, you should probably read up on it before or during your visit. In a nutshell, the artifacts symbolize the order and structure restored by the Olympians after their victory over the Giants. There are four busts of the continents, four busts of the elements, and four busts referring to space, matter and time.

The best way to get there is by bus no. 112 from the metro station Nadraží Holešovice on line C. The entry to the garden is free, unlike the chateau itself. The park is open between April and October until 7pm except on Mondays. Check out their website for most updated prices and opening hours.

Cibulka park

Cibulka is a park situated in the Košíře district in a wooded area. The easiest to reach by public transport is taking the tram 9, 10 or 16 to Poštovka station. The park is one of our most favorite in Prague and probably one of the greenest. There are several hiking trails branching off in different directions of the park in midst beautiful scenery.

The centerpiece of the park is an artificial castle ruin with a look-out tower standing on a hill. You can climb up the stairs and take in the view of the surrounding nature. Besides, there is a Chinese Pavilion which was recently reconstructed.

The name of the park is derived from the original owner Blažej Cibulka from Veleslavín at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. However, it had its peak time when it was taken over by Count and Bishop Leopold Thun–Hohenštejn of Passau. He established his summer residence here and enriched the park with promenades, sculptures and ponds. He also built the castle ruin and look-out tower.

Thanks to all these contributions the park rose to fame and was even visited by some international noblemen. After the bishop’s death his homestead fell abandoned. Only recently it was announced that that it will be transformed into a center for palliative care for children. If you want to see how it originally looks from the inside, you can check out our article of Abandoned places in Prague.

The park can be visited throughout the year, however we thought that it looked the prettiest in winter time with snow covering the ruins and foot paths.

Prague zoo

The Prague zoo is the second of the three highlights of the Troja district. Besides, it ranks fourth of all zoos in the world. To get there you can take the bus no. 112 from train station Nádraží Holešovice.

If you want to pay a visit to each section of the zoo, you should set aside at least 4 hours. This is not taking into account time to relax or grab some food. When we visited, we spent 6 hours to cover around 10 km of walking trails and explore the pavilions and outdoor grounds.

Depending on your preferences, you should make sure to allow yourself enough time to explore the park.

You’ll not only learn interesting facts about the animals living there, but also the zoo’s role in animal conservation and protection of endangered species.

We were particularly impressed of the abundance of bird species and amphibians. Also to see giraffes, a hippo and a gorilla with no more than a thick glass wall between us was a unique moment.

You can visit the zoo all year round. In winter most animals are kept inside, which is also not a bad way for the visitors to warm up.

Slovansky dům

A hidden oasis in the middle of the city. This is how I would call the garden around Slovanský dům, a rather noble address for shopping, entertainment and dining. The main entrance to the complex is located on one of Prague’s main shopping boulevards (Na příkopě street).

Just walk through the palace like building and you will find yourself in a lush green setting. Whenever we go to the city center we try to stop by for a quick rest. Especially on warm days it’s the best place to find shade under the old plane trees reaching far into the sky.

If you’re on a budget you can get a drink or snack from a nearby store and enjoy it on one of the benches. After you’ve been there, you will always want to come back. That’s guaranteed.

Botanical garden

We already mentioned Troja palace and the Prague zoo. The Botanical garden is the last missing piece that makes the list of the 3 major sights of the Troja district complete. Same as for the two aforementioned sights, you should plan equally enough time to visit the Botanical garden.

We spent a relaxing summer day there, exploring the diverse collection of plants from different continents and climate zones. The botanical garden is divided into the Fata Morgana Greenhouse and outdoor gardens.

The premises are next to each other but are not connected. They each have their own entry gate where you need to scan your visitor pass, so make sure to keep it at hand. To read more about our experience at the Botanical garden feel free to continue to this article.

Letenská water tower

Another discovery we made during the Open House Prague event is the Letenská water tower – Vodárenská věž Letná.

The water tower operated in the second half of the 19th century supplying the districts of Holešovice and Bubenec with water. This lasted until 1913. Since then the building has been preserved and transformed into a cultural venue.

On the highest floor there is an exhibition space where art galleries and theater plays take place. You can check the program on their website. When we were there we had the opportunity to get a look of the library which is mostly visited by people from the neighborhood.

In fact, the original idea of the library was to bring people from the neighborhood together to chat about books or exchange them.

Our highlight was the terrace that stretches all around the tower, offering great views of the surroundings. There is even an observation deck with a periscope.

The opening times alternate between Tuesday and Saturday skipping every other day (2-6pm). You can also arrange a private tour through their website.

Vyšehrad

Vyšehrad castle looks a lot like the iconic Prague Castle and sits on a hill, downstream the Vltava river. To get there you can take the metro to Vyšehrad Underground Station, the tram no. 17 from Výtoň station or walk from Karlovo náměstí, following the signs that lead up to the fortress. If you take a look of the castle from below you will see fortified walls stretching all around, offering scenic views from the surroundings.

Aside from the main landmark, the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, the fortress covers a cemetery and a large park with sculptures. The most prestigious monument is the Slavín Tomb, residing atop of a staircase, decorated with a giant statue of an angel. The mausoleum contains the remains of several prominent Czech personalities.

While Vyšehrad has already been discovered by tourists, it still has its quiet moments, ideal to take a break from the bustling city.

Rohan island

Rohanský ostrov or Rohan island is located in the district of Karlín together with another island, Libeň island. Both islands are currently undergoing a massive transformation in terms of redesigning the riverside landscapes and neighborhood areas.

For this purpose an international competition was launched in 2022 which led to four teams (studios from Belgium and the Netherlands) being selected who will shape this part of Prague within the next decade (the transformation is planned to be completed in 2035).

Since this year you can already see some progress on the grounds of Rohanský ostrov. For example, the Holka footbridge was completed which connects Holešovice with Karlín. In general, the transformation of Rohan island is divided into two parts: the extensive green spaces along the Vltava river side and the massive construction of offices and apartments on the other side.

We have to admit that we are not a fan of the newly built residential and office buildings, however we think that the transformation of the riverside is a positive change. We enjoy going there for a walk or grab a drink from the outdoor bar Přístav. We also featured this part of Rohanský ostrov in our article.

Mostar is our most favorite city in Bosnia and Herzegovina because it combines all the characteristics of an exciting destination: a diverse culture, significant history, plenty of nature and tasty local food.

Traveling Bosnia and Herzegovina feels like immersing yourself in different cultures all the time. And that for a reason. The country is home to three main ethnic groups: Muslim Bosniaks, Orthodox Serbs and Catholic Croats alongside smaller communities of Jews and Roma people. This vibrant mix of cultures, traditions and languages is what captivates visitors from all over the world.

In the past, the atmosphere was often described as a peaceful coexistence with mixed marriages and friendships across ethnics. This came to an end when the war broke out in the 1990s. Suddenly ethnicity became the dividing line between territory and people, resulting in ethnic segregation and population displacement.

Mostar itself became a divided city – the west bank of the Neretva river is mainly inhabited by Croats, the east by Bosniaks. This contrast between the two different cultures is best experienced when crossing the old bridge from one side to the other. Today both sides foster a peaceful relationship, yet reconciliation is an ongoing process.

In general, the city is safe and especially the old town and center became quite touristic in recent years. This is what attracts most visitors. However, Mostar has a lot more to offer. The splendid surrounding nature makes it suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities.

In this article we want to show you the perfect balance between sightseeing, historical context, nature and recommended trips to nearby places.

Visit the old town and bridge

The bridge is what gave the city its name in the first place. It translates to „bridge keeper“ and from early history on has been a symbol of union between the different ethnics. The bridge is the linchpin of all attractions. In fact, almost all other landmarks are centered around the iconic bridge.

Crossing the bridge from one side to the other is often referred to as where East meets West. In fact the Neretva river used to be the dividing line between the two ethnic groups: Croats and Bosniaks. Which side is which can be easily answered by looking out for religious symbols. The east side is where the mosques are whereas on the west side if you gaze in the distance you will spot a cross on a mountain.

Cool down at the Neretva banks

There are many angles from which you can take in the view of the bridge. Like from the banks of the Neretva river below the bridge. Especially on hot days this is a great place to cool down. If you don’t mind ice-cold water you can dip your feet. No matter the season, the water is always freezing.

Learn about the recent history

Mostar offers many ways to educate yourself about the breakup of former Yugoslavia which led to the different conflicts on the Balkans. If you want to absorb more information about this topic read this comprehensive article. It contains an outline of the historical events and shares some personal thoughts.

Enjoy traditional cuisine

Bosnian cuisine reflects the multicultural heritage of the country at its finest. The dishes are mostly meaty and hearty. The most popular snack is a pie which comes with different fillings. Depending on the filling it is labeled as pita (vegetarian like cheese, spinach, potatos) or burek (meat).

Explore the street art scene

The street art scene in Mostar has come a long way since recent years. Whenever we visited there were new murals popping up. We have dedicated an entire article to Mostar’s street art that we try to keep up to date.

Visit the Partisan memorial

Not many people know about the partisan memorial in Mostar. It commemorates the partisan soldiers which have fallen during the liberation of Bosnia in Herzegovina in the events of World war II.
The memorial symbolizes the collective efforts of people from the Yugoslav army which fought side by side against the fascist oppression.

At the time we visited the monument appeared neglected with broken stones lying all over the place. We investigated and found out that he memorial is a frequent target of vandalism committed by citizens that have strong nationalistic beliefs.
Most of the monuments in the city are dedicated to the Bosnian war. The partisan memorial was a good opportunity to learn about another historical period.

Besides, it’s a secret viewpoint offering panoramic views of the mountains.

Climb up Mount Fortica

Mount Fortica is another name for mountain Hum. You can easily spot the mountain if you look out for a cross on a summit.

As the name Fortica suggests, a fortress can be found on the hill which dates back to the medieval period.

To reach the summit you can either walk or drive up the winding road. The curves are steep at times so be cautious while driving.

Once you reach the observation deck you will be captivated by scenic views of Mostar’s skyline and the surrounding nature. The skywalk has a glass floor which adds to the adrenaline rush.

Visit Blagaj

If you have more time to spare you should consider a day trip to the village Blagaj. It’s famous for the so-called Blagaj Tekija, a 600 year old Dervish monastery that sits at the base of a massive cliff right next to river Buna. To be precise, its source.

This is where the Sufi, a type of Muslims, gathered for spiritual rituals, prayer and to welcome other Sufi travelers. It’s easy to understand why this was the ideal place.

The emerald water of the river Buna nestled within green lush nature will soothe your body and soul immediately.

For the best view you need to go behind the restaurant area where you will find a pathway leading uphill. Follow this way until you reach the lookout platform opposite the monastery.

Visit Počitelj

The ancient village of Počitelj is a place you don’t want to miss while in Mostar. It’s only 30 km away and adored by many visitors.

During the Ottoman rule the village of Počitelj was a vibrant cultural center located on a hillside with a medieval fortress crowning the top.

A winding stairway made from rock connects the lower floors with the top ones. Be aware that the rock is slippery so consider shoes with a good grip.

On the way you will pass some interesting buildings all made from the same white rock: a bell tower, a mosque and traditional residential houses.
Once you reach the top you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Neretva river embedded in lush green hills.

Take a trip to some waterfalls

The country side in Bosnia and Herzegovina is full of natural wonders like incredible waterfalls.

The most famous ones are Kravica waterfalls, around 40 km away from Mostar.

It can become pretty crowded there, especially during summer peak. If you’re looking for a more secret alternative check out Koćuša Waterfall.

We visited both as they’re not far away from each other. We preferred the smaller Koćuša waterfall as it’s more local and thus calmer. They can be described as a miniature version of Kravica waterfall.

Before you go, inform yourself about entrance and parking fees.

Soak up the city at sunset

Mostar’s magic at sunset is a unique experience. The old town is less busy and the air more refreshing, especially at the end of a hot summer day.

We like to stroll around the alleys and enjoy the panoramic view while the sun paints the sky in all colors. You can also sit on the terrace of a nearby cafe.

Say hi to Bruce Lee

The statue of Bruce Lee has become a popular sight over the years. It’s not a coincidence that the city decided to put up a statue of the martial arts legend and philosopher Bruce Lee.

In 2005 an organized group of young people came up with the idea to install a bronze statue of Bruce Lee in the city park. Despite the differences of the three ethnic groups they all share the same respect for Bruce Lee. This is why the statue can be seen as an unofficial symbol of reconciliation.

Learn about traditional life

To get a closer look of the diverse culture in Bosnia and Herzegovina we visited the Bosnaseum. It’s a small museum in the old town that showcases designs of traditional households, folklore costumes and handcrafts from all three ethnic groups.

Further, you can get a good overview of the historical events from the Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian rule to the break-up of the Yugoslav republic and the aftermath.

Admire local handicraft

The bazaar in the old town makes for some great treasure hunt. You will see plenty of traditional handicrafts like pottery, ceramics, mosaic lanterns, embroidered tablecloths and ancient coffee pots and cups.

Go on a roadtrip

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a big country with long distances between the major towns. Renting a car will allow you to be independent and explore some interesting places in your own pace.

The country side has a unique vibe due to the change of scenery. At times you will drive past deep river canyons or in between massive mountain ranges.

Embrace the emerald green rivers

The rivers in Bosnia and Herzegovina are characterized by pristine emerald green water. There is an explanation for this mesmerizing phenomenon: the rivers meander through mountainous landscapes and carry some of the sediment and minerals on their way.

Depending on the sunlight, the depth of the river and the mineral content, the water appears sometimes less sometimes more emerald green.

Conclusion

Adapting to new environments, cultures and set of rules is an essential part of traveling. Speaking of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country that was heavily destructed by war, it will leave another impression on you than a country which never had any major conflicts.

Bearing this in mind, there is no denial that Mostar is still coping with many challenges on a social, ethnic, economical and political level. Nevertheless, Mostar is an exciting travel destination with a unique multicultural heritage, wild nature and warm friendly people. Best time to visit is all year long, just try to avoid summer peak season.

Spending one week in Lanzarote, mainly in Costa Teguise, we were able to explore some of the Canary island’s unique places, landscapes and cultural heritage.
In this article we want to share with you some rather unusual activities and hidden places we discovered.

Cycling the world’s longest seafront promenade

With a measure of 26 kilometers, the coastal promenade in Lanzarote is considered the longest promenade in the world. It connects the two popular holiday resorts Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise, with the capital of Arrecife lying in the middle. Pedestrians and cyclists can enjoy the view of the ocean from many different angles and visit some of the nicest beaches along the way.

There are plenty bike rentals on the island, offering regular bikes as well as e bikes. Bear in mind that the island is quite windy, so it can be strenuous to cycle against the wind.
We accepted the challenge and cycled the coastal boardwalk. It’s a full day trip, so you should leave in time.

The magical garden of Don Pillimpo

This place caught us off-guard on our stroll around the old town of Teguise. Walking from the direction of San Bartholome, suddenly a vast collection of white statues and sculptures emerged in front of our eyes, seemingly out of nowhere. The peculiar shaped artworks filled us with awe and left quite some impression on us.

The owner of the magical garden who is also the artist at the same time is called Jose Garcia Martin (also known as Don Pillimpo). The place is also referred to as Museo Mara Mao.
First, I thought the display resembles a cemetery, with the eerie sculptures being tombstones. There is even a statue of a cross.

The more I kept looking, the more details I discovered scattered all around the place like retro computer monitors, mannequins and old toys.

The garden continues behind the house and resembles an outdoor gallery. There is no need to enter the premises as you can also get a good view from a distance.
We were surprised by how much arts there is to find on this small island.

César Manríque hunting

The famous local artist and environmental activist César Manríque was deeply inspired by the uniqueness and beauty of his native island. He was on a constant mission to integrate nature, architecture and arts – the things he loved the most.

His creations can be found all over the island – like this swimming pool, part of the arts center, Jameos del Agua.

Fairy house

If you plan to visit Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua on your own and don’t mind walking, you can take the local bus to Punta Mujeres and walk from there.

While waiting for the bus, we had some time to stroll around this little beach town. We couldn’t believe our eyes when we saw a house right out of a fairy tale, decorated with hundreds of colorful plants and flowers. We are not sure if this is the owner captured on the photo.

Cat show

There is a huge colony of feral cats inhabiting the island. We were surprised to see so many cats wandering around or sunbathing on the beach.

While tourists may find it adorable, many of the cats are not neutered, which leads to an uncontrolled increase of the feral cat population and the spread of disease.
There are volunteering programs and charities who provide food, medical care and spay/neuter campaigns for the cats.

Cueva de los Verdes

If you don’t mind spending some time under the ground, climbing through some narrow and dark passageways, you should plan a trip to the Green caves or Cueva de los Verdes. These caves are part of the largest lava tube of the world and were designed by the artist, Jesus Soto.

The cave system stretches for over 2 kilometers, but the tour just covers one kilometer, lasting around 50 minutes. Jameos del Agua lies on the other side of the same lava tube, which ultimately leads into the sea.
The highlight of the tour awaits at the end and should be kept a secret according to the tour guide. If you want to know what it is, you can keep digging through the internet, however if you plan to visit Lanzarote, you should come and see for yourself. You will not regret the wait.

Hiking trails

What makes Lanzarote so special is the ever-changing scenery. Many visitors book a trip to the Timanfaya National Park in order to see the island’s most spectacular volcanoes, but you will already be surrounded by volcanoes as soon as you leave the beach towns and head a little bit inland.

We walked from Costa Teguise to Teguise old town and passed some volcanoes not far in the distance. You should check for marked trails and avoid venturing out too far. Always bring enough water and sun screen. If you walk alone, let someone know where you are heading to. Make sure to select a hiking trail suitable for your fitness and do your research well in advance.

An abundance of cacti and succulents

The biggest collection of cacti and succulents from all over the world can be admired in the park, Jardin de cactus, César Manríquez last creation before he died.

The park itself hosts over 4500 specimens of cactus and succulents.
Even if you are not able to visit the park, you will make acquaintance with an abundance of prickly plants wherever you go.

Abandoned buildings

As an urbex enthusiast I am always happy to discover some abandoned sights in the places I travel. Like this abandoned ruins in Arrecife. It’s just walls but with a fully preserved balcony.

There was also a ship wreck (Telamon) on the shore between Arrecife and Costa Teguise which was left abandoned since 1981 after a leak. According to the news, the wreck will be dismantled this year.

Aloe vera and salt museum

On our self organized trip to Cueva de los Verdes, we took a bus to Punta Mujeres. While we were walking the last kilometers to our destination, we discovered a museum dedicated to the healing powers of Aloe vera.

It’s one of five visitor centres titled Aloe Plus Lanzarote and located in different places on the island. There is no admission fee, so we had a look inside. You can learn about the history, cultivation and medical benefits of the Aloe vera plant. There is also a store where you can purchase aloe vera induced products.

Further, there is a section about other natural resources characteristic to the island: salt and cochineal, a parasite bug from which the natural dye carmine is extracted.
On their website you can even request free guided tours.

Volcanic vineyards

Who would have guessed that wine can be produced in a volcanic desert? It is a quite bizarre sight to spot lush green vineyards dotted across black volcanic rocks. The most popular vineyards are located in La Geria. However, you can find them growing all over the island.

Summers in Prague are known to bring swarms of tourists, venturing out to the city, exploring sights and enjoying some fun and relaxation time. No matter if you’re a tourist or a local, pack enough water, put some sun screen on, and explore our 14 unique places to enjoy a wonderful summer in Prague.

1 Rohanský ostrov – Rohan island

Rohanský ostrov is a recreational park located at the river bank of the Karlín/Libeň district in Prague 8. Twenty years ago this area in particular was hit hard by the city’s most devastating flood, when part of the river bank drowned into the water, forming two islands: Rohansk and Libeň Island.

Today, these places are still referred to as islands even though the water has gone back. Since then, the former industrial district of Karlín has been transformed into a modern residential and business landscape.

Within a stone’s throw lie the green spaces of Rohanský ostrov. You can either follow the trail along the Vltava right before the Štefánikův Bridge or take the ferry (covered by the DPH ticket) from Pražská tržnice.

The park is suitable for all kinds of leisure activities. There is an outdoor bar (Přístav 18600) where you can grab a drink and sit on wooden benches. There is one interesting wooden artwork that caught our attention. If you sit inside this repurposed concrete pipe you get a great view of Holešovice’s riverside, Bubenské nábřeží.

There is an ongoing initiative to revitalize Rohanský ostrov and the surrounding riverside.

2 Petřín

The green spaces, gardens and viewpoints of Petřín park can be a pleasant refuge from daily life. Spread out over a hill, you should take into account that the hike can be strenuous, especially on hot days. Luckily, the walking trails are lined with trees so there is shade with benches to rest. Alternatively, you can reach the top by taking a funicular if you don’t mind the long waiting times.

There are several hiking trails meandering through the hill. You can access it from Malá Strana or from Smíchov via Kinsky Gardens.

One of the most visible landmarks of Prague is the Hunger Wall cutting right through Petřín hill. The wall was constructed under the reign of King Charles IV as a defense of the Lesser Town and the castle. The works were carried out by the poorest people, thus the name hunger wall.

3 Botanical garden of Prague

The official botanical garden of the city Prague is located in Prague 7, near Troja castle and Prague zoo. You would need to take a bus from Nádraží Holešovice and exit either at Zoologická zahrada or Botanická zahrada Troja. There are two separate units which can be accessed with the same ticket: The Fata Morgana green house and the actual botanical gardens atop Troja hill, overlooking some vineyards and the baroque Troja chateau.

It is up to you to decide in which order to visit. Bear in mind that the gardens measure 30 ha in total so plan enough time for your stay. Every garden has its own theme with characteristic plants from different parts of the world.

If you don’t have sufficient time to take a trip to the botanical garden, check out the small Botanical garden of Charles University of Prague instead.

4 Botanical garden of Charles University of Prague

The Botanical garden of Charles University of Prague could be described as a miniature version of the actual Prague botanical gardens.

It can be visited between 10 AM and 6 PM every day (or until 7.30 PM between April and August). There is no admission for the outside gardens, but the green house does charge a small fee. You can expect a small but fine selection of native and exotic plants and rocks.
Especially in summer this is one of the best places to find some rest and quiet from the tourist hassle.

5 Radlická Žije – Radlicka lives

We couldn’t believe our eyes when we discovered this outdoor location for the first time last summer. The venue covers a large piece of ground, harboring an outdoor bar, a sandy beach, a community garden and cozy seats to sit and relax.

There are lots of events to choose from, like open air concerts or open air cinema. This makes the place truly alive. There is free entrance when there are no events. Drop by for a drink and see for yourself why this place deserves every bit of our praise.

6 Prokopské údolí

Summer is the ideal time for hiking and exploring the local nature. One of our favorite hiking trails are located within the Prokopské valley. It stretches out along the districts of Jinonice, Hlubočepy, Butovice, Řeporyje and Barrandov.

You can explore the nature reserve on foot or by bike. There are trails on the ground and above the hills. Make sure to wear good shoes and bring enough water.

You can look forward to see some nice plants and karst stone rocks. There is even a viaduct, a cave and a hidden lake (Hlubočepy’s Jezírko).

7 Kasárna Karlín

Former military barracks from the outside, a playground for kids and adults on the inside. Opened to the public in 2017, this place only caught our attention last year.
The cultural venue is managed by a NGO and according to the official website, they are struggling maintaining operations due to rising rents and competition from investors.

This is a well known problem in Prague, so don’t wait too long to visit. Nobody knows what will happen in 2 years when the contract with the city expires. Make sure to check out their website for events or just pop in anytime for a drink or even a little volleyball or badminton match.

8 Sacré Coeur Park

Next time you visit the Nový Smíchov mall in Anděl, head to the first floor and exit the mall via a pedestrian bridge over a motorway. It leads directly to a nice little park on a hill with benches and nice views of Prague. We would grab some food and drinks from the mall and enjoy them in the park. Especially recommended for sunset time. There is going to be a pavilion built soon.

9 Letenské sady (Letná park)

As one of the most beautiful and iconic places in Prague, Letná cannot be left unmentioned in this article. At the end of 2019, a new lookout point was added, where you can sit with a drink and enjoy one of the best views of the city. It’s not only a popular place to catch the sunset, but it has a lot more to offer in terms of recreation. People come here to inline skate, picnic or even barbecue. It’s one of the most popular meeting spots for locals and tourists.

10 Santoška park

Located in Smíchov, this park was recently reconstructed and seems to be a secret tip. There are some beautiful benches carved out of trunks and nice walking lanes. You can come here to read a book or enjoy the view over Smíchov.

11 Waltrovka

While the residential buildings and offices of the Jinonice district rather evoke a business atmosphere than a leisurely atmosphere, the Waltrovka park balances this out. Located on a hill with trees, shrubs and wild flowers you will forget for a moment where you are and just enjoy the surrounding nature.

In summer this park feels like a private little garden as there are not many people making their way up here.

12 Náplavka

When the days get warmer, the promenades along the river Vltava fill up with crowds of people. What is probably the liveliest promenade stretches from Palackého most down to the railway bridge at Výtoň. The waterside, widely known as Náplavka, this is the go-to place to hang out and enjoy the stunning view of the castle and bustling riverside.

You can bring your own drinks or snacks and take a seat by the water or check out the vaults and floating restaurants and bars. There is also a weekly farmers market. If you are looking for a little more privacy and quiet, you can cross the bridge to the opposite riverbank, Smíchovská náplavka at Hořejší nábřeží (Hořejší riverfront). The vaults with cafés and bars inside only opened up recently. No matter which side of the river you choose, make sure to drop by for a drink preferably at sunset.

13 Žižkov

There are many reasons to visit the neighborhood of Žižkov. For tourists, it might be to get a close-up of the iconic Černý babies on the TV tower, just to realize there is so much more to explore. Originating as a working class district, Žižkov today is popular among locals, students and foreigners offering affordable living and a vibrant nightlife.

For example, there is a Jewish cemetery, the park Riegrovy Sady or Vítkov hill where a statue of a warrior on a horse towers over the city. The warrior’s name is Jan Žižka, who the district was named after. He was a famous general who fought on the side of the Hussites (1400) founded by the reformer Jan Hus, against the Catholic opponents.

14 Riegrovy Sady

There is no better way to end a lazy summer day than find a cozy place to watch the sunset. Riegrovy Sady is such a place. Grab a beer from the nearby beer garden and find a spot on the hillside overlooking the Prague skyline with the castle.

Are you in Prague or Vienna and looking for an idyllic getaway? Then Český Krumlov is the perfect place. This little laid-back town in South Bohemia will give you just the right amount of relaxation while not falling short to surprise you.

And best of all, it won’t stretch your budget.

The town is located just between Prague and Vienna, making it a perfect stopover.

During the pandemic, the streets have fallen silent and became almost unrecognizable. As the situation keeps improving, the visitor numbers are increasing again. So, if you want to experience the city in a quiet state, you should visit sooner rather than later.

Many visitors take a bus tour from Prague, Vienna or Linz, which we don’t recommend. The best time to explore the city is actually when the tour buses leave and you can breathe again. In fact, we thought that the city is even more fascinating in the evening or at night, when the city lights illuminate the medieval buildings and the river.

Budget Information

Prices in Český Krumlov are very similar to prices in Prague, and in some cases a little cheaper. Since we visited during the pandemic, it’s possible some prices were lower than usual.

Accommodation
One night in Hostel Merlin (private room): €28
Transportation
Bus Prague–Český Krumlov: 195 CZK (€7.89) per person, one way
Food and drinks
Regular beer: 35 CZK
Local beer: 40 CZK
Food from restaurant: around 120–160 CZK (€4.86–€6.48)

Best Things To Do

Castle & Viewpoints

Impossible to miss from a distance and centerpiece of the city: The castle tower, part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.

Did you know that this is the second largest castle in Czechia with Prague castle occupying the first place?

Navigate through the castle compounds and observe how the architecture changes between Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The castle was initially built in 1250 and has been under constant transformation since then.

There are numerous viewpoints with enchanting views, like the Seminární zahrada.

To get a good view over the historical town and its surroundings, walk East towards the main bus station from where there are good viewpoints.

Have you also discovered this secret photography and lookout spot?

One of the most controversial highlights of the castle is the bear moat inhabiting a real life brown bear.

Despite its adorable presence, we disagree of keeping a bear prisoner for the sake of visitors staring and taking photos.

Castle garden

There is no entrance fee for the castle gardens, but be mindful that the garden is only open from April to October. We especially enjoyed the view of this pond full of water plants.

Latrán District

It’s easy to see what makes Český Krumlov so charming. The medieval vibe can be felt in every corner of the old town, like in the old Latrán neighborhood. Today the restaurants, hotels and souvenir shops cater to the tourists but in the past this is where the people lived.

Cloak bridge

No matter if you stand below or on it, the three story cloak bridge is a spectacular sight. From a distance, the arched windows resemble a Roman aqueduct but if you come closer you can see people up there enjoying the view.

Street art

One of the quirkiest sights we discovered roaming the old town were giant bronze sculptures of fingers. If you keep your eyes open, you will spot them in several places.

The artist behind is called Miroslav Páral. If you want to explore more of the artist’s work, you should check out the Miroslav Páral Gallery, situated in the castle undergrounds.

Or get a free tour by heading to this hidden alley, decorated with red shelves on a green house wall, displaying interesting artifacts, like those mysterious figurines.

At the end of the alley, you will pass a gate leading to the riverside. There is a bench with feet sculptures on the left and right.

Rose garden

Do you want to soak up more of the beautiful landscape of South Bohemia, then take a little hike to this magical rose garden.

This is a secret tip as not many people seem to come here.

Městský Park with St. Martin’s Chapel and pavilion

If you are looking for a unique lookout point, you should check out the pavilion located in the municipal park outside the center.

Especially in summer this is the perfect angle to capture the iconic St. Vitus Church. Or take shelter from the sun.

Explore also the park with some old trees and singing birds. The highlight is a blue chapel standing right in the park, with some busts scattered around.

Attend a festival

Český Krumlov is not only great for sight-seeing but hosts several cultural events all year round. Like the Saint Wenceslas Celebration taking place on the last September weekend.

We had the pleasure to experience a traditional folklore performance right on the streets.

Conclusion

If you are on your Prague itinerary and have some time, hop on a bus or train and visit Český Krumlov. The town is small and walk-able which makes it perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.

Best travel time is spring or early/ late summer as it is less busy and nature in full bloom. You will also stay well within your budget.

Berlin is everything except boring. In fact, if you’d want, you can find plenty of events each day of the week. Not to mention, the amazing local and international street food you can try. Plus, the city is so huge and diverse that sightseeing alone is enough to keep you busy during your time here.

Is Berlin an expensive city? We believe Berlin can be done on a moderate budget. In this article, we show how much we spent during our stay here.

Accommodation

We spent our first night in St Christopher’s Inn, within walking distance from the bus stop Alexanderplatz where we arrived in Berlin. Their cheapest bed is €9.90, but we booked beds in the 6-bed dorm instead for €11.90. This hostel can be booked directly on their website so there are no additional booking fees. There is a sports bar on the ground floor so it’s not the best place to meet other travelers, but as a guest you’ll get discounts on beer: €4 for 2 bottles. A tap beer costs €3.50. We booked a private room in easyHotel for our second night for €45.

Accommodation:
Dorm bed: €9.90 (per person)
Private room: €45 (total)

Transportation

If you want to explore Berlin beyond comfortable walking distances, you would need to purchase a ticket or rent a bike like us. Public transportation in Germany is very expensive so you should check what suits your wallet the best.

Transportation costs:
Single 2-hour ticket: €3
Single 24-hour ticket: €8.80
Bicycle rental (24 hours): €12

You can buy fares through the ticket machines inside the metro stations or in kiosks.

Bike rental

Berlin offers several bike rentals as well as guided bike tours.

We decided to rent from Fat Tire because they had multiple rental locations around the city. The bikes are secured with an integrated lock and come with 3 gears. The price for 24 hours is €12 in most rental places in Berlin.

Considering the great distances and the high price of public transport, renting bicycles is worth the cost and should suit your needs. However, the bicycles are very small and sitting becomes uncomfortable after some time. One day was more than enough for our posteriors and inner thighs.

If you are planning to rent for several days, consider bikes with a softer cushioned seat. You might even opt for a e-bike.

Berlin is a bike-friendly city with a wide network of bicycle lanes. Exploring the city on a bike is fun and will save you money and time spent on public transportation. There are also enough bicycle racks for parking everywhere.

Food & Drinks

We mostly relied on street food and supermarkets for food. Restaurants were, in our opinion, too expensive.

There is a wide choice of German and foreign cuisine. If you want to try out some special type of food, there is a high chance that you’ll find it in Berlin.

Prices for drinks are moderate in kiosks or Spätis (late night kiosks). One annoyance is the deposits on cans and bottles so you end up walking around with a backpack full of empty containers until you find a place to return them. The deposit fee is not included in the price tag, which can be surprising to foreigners who may not expect an additional 25 cents per drink.

Food and drinks (restaurants, street food):
Beer from späti: €1.50
Vegetarian kebab: €3.50
Kebab: €4.50
Currywurst: €4.50
Chicken burger: €4.80
Vegetarian burger: €4.80

Food and drinks (from supermarket):
Beer: €0.50 – €0.89 (+8 cents deposit)
Börek: €0.65
Water (1l): €0.19 (+25 cents deposit)
Fritz lemonade: €0.99 (+8 cents deposit)
Brezel (pretzel): €0.69

Budget things to do

Check out our Alternative Things to Do in Berlin as an addition to our list below.

Rent a bike and cycle the city

Berlin is the first city where we rented bikes. There are several rentals which made it easy to find one that suits our wallet.

In order to save time, I researched some places beforehand that we wanted to visit and entered them in a navigation app (Maps.me). On the way, we stopped occasionally if something caught our attention.

Explore Mitte

Mitte (middle) is the central district in Berlin. It will most probably be the starting point of your Berlin tour. You will see all touristy landmarks and sights.

There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars. Be aware that prices in the center are higher.

Discover the Berlin bear family

They come in vibrant colors, patterns and themes: the buddy bears of Berlin. Each one of them is hand painted with a unique artwork.

The life-size bear statues keep welcoming visitors since 2002. Not only in Berlin. As part of the United Buddy Bears world tour, they are displayed all over the world.

They are not only cheerful to look at, they are a symbol of tolerance as well.

Go street art hunting

Berlin has a world-class street art scene. The nice thing is that new artworks keep popping up which changes the face of the city all the time.

There are plenty of free street art tours (or on donation basis).

Visit the RAW area

Berlin is characterized by different districts that all have a unique vibe.

Crossing the Oberbaumbrücke to Friedrichshain, you cannot pass without noticing the RAW temple. The former railway maintenance yard hosts all kinds of cultural and artistic venues.

Take a walk through the Mauerpark

Once a border strip of the Berlin wall, today one of the most popular sites to visit. The legendary Sunday’s flea market and karaoke are top activities not to miss on your Berlin trip.

Visit the East Side Gallery

Do you want to experience what a wall separating two parts of the city feels like? Then head to the East Side Gallery, the longest continuous section of the Berlin wall.

After the opening of the East-West borders, artists from all over the world united to turn the wall into an open art gallery and memorial.

Learn about the dark side of history

The topography of terror sheds light on the brutal prosecution of opponents under the regime of the Nazis. The site of the exhibition was used a house prison for political prisoners.

Enjoy street food at Markthalle Neun

Street food Thursday is a popular event for locals and visitors alike. You will find different stalls serving all types of local and international street food. Whereas some stalls are only operating on Thursdays, others are permanently installed and can be visited all week long.

Visit the Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was the most famous border crossing during the time of the division.
According to the phonetic alphabet, Checkpoint Charlie was the third checkpoint established by the Allies (C stands for Charlie).

It gained its fame after Soviet and American tanks lined up one day, each on their side, to demonstrate their powers.

Travel back in time

You don’t have to visit the GDR musuem for some 70s or 80s nostalgia. A tour trough Berlin itself can bear many nostalgic moments.

Check out the flea markets selling vintage pieces or browse some vintage stores.

Swap books at the Book Forest

Do you like reading as much as me? Then don’t miss out on the Book forest (Bücherwald). Near the corner at Kollwitzstraße in Prenzlauer Berg you will find a collection of trees harboring books inside their trunks.

Cherish all those Berlin moments

What would be a trip to Berlin without a unique Berlin moment? Cherish them all!

Pose with the Ampelmann

The Eastern traffic light men in green and red became a cult figure after the end of the division.

Check out the Trabi exhibition

Pose with a Trabant or rent one for a tour.

Try all those lemonades and mates

For a lemonade addict like me, I cannot get enough of this refreshing liquid each time I visit. The mate lemonade is a cult drink here that comes in various flavors and caffeine degrees. However, there is also a wide range of classical lemonades and those with a new twist.

Visit Tempelhofer Feld

If you are longing for a quick break from the city, Tempelhofer Feld is the right place to go.

The former airport and parade ground was turned into a huge recreational space including urban garden.

Arts on the go

Berlin’s street art scene has more to offer than just murals. How about wild animals built from scrap metal or a huge ball with weird objects strapped to it?

The sculptures of Adam and Eve are displayed at one of the entrances of the Kulturbrauerei.

Occupied buildings or squats add to the cultural experience. There are some with a long history of occupation, however it gets harder and harder for the occupiers to defend their homes, as police is targeting them frequently.

Have a drink by the Oberbaum Brücke

The iconic red brick bridge with the two towers is the number one landmark in Berlin featuring movies. Enjoy a drink at the river banks and watch the metro rattling over the bridge.

Take a walk through a Kiez

As mentioned earlier Berlin has a colorful landscape of districts, which the Berliners refer to as Kiez. There is something unique about each one of them, just stroll down the streets and you will see for yourself.

Conclusion

Berlin is a budget European capital with an abundance of things to do and even more to discover. We would recommend to stay at least 3 days. If you want to explore Berlin beyond the tourist hot-spots, you should plan another 2 days or return again for another visit.

Is this your first time walking the Camino de Santiago or Way of St. James? If so, you might catch yourself wondering about one thing or another.

We have some of the answers for you.

1 Rocks of sorrow

Walking the camino can feel like a fresh new start, leaving old sorrows behind.

These old sorrows are locked inside rocks brought from home and then dropped somewhere along the Camino. Over the years those rocks or pebbles of sorrow became one of the most visible traditions of the Camino. Piles of rocks can be seen nearly everywhere, mainly at way markers and crosses.

Only the owners know the sorrow locked inside which hopefully they are no longer carrying. However, not all of the rocks found on those piles carry a symbolic meaning.

Sometimes pilgrims just collect rocks along the way to add them to the pile for no clear reason. They like the idea of leaving something behind or just think it looks aesthetic. No matter the reasons, all those rocks claim a lot of space and can become a problem after some time. They need to be cleared on a regular basis.

Why not carry and leave imaginary rocks? If that is not enough and it needs to be a real item, place it at least in a place that is less affected by rock piles.

2 Yellow arrows

The camino continued to grow in popularity since its beginning, attracting people from all over the world. Yellow arrows, preferably on a blue background, were introduced to mark the routes. Following them will ensure you are on the right track.

In some places you will encounter the arrows on rock signposts together with an inscription of the mileage left before reaching Santiago de Compostela.

3 Scallop shell

Probably the most infamous symbol of the camino. In the early days, this type of shell was collected by pilgrims on the Galician shores as token of proof that they completed the journey. The pligrims back then also used it to collect drinking water from streams or use it as a plate or spoon.

Legend also has it that Saint James‘ dead body was transported on a ship to Galicia when a storm hit and wrecked the ship. The body was later found well preserved and covered in scallop shells.

Today the scallop shell decorates backpacks of the pilgrims and is the number one souvenir for the camino.

4 Saint James

The camino de Santiago rose to fame after the remains of the disciple Santiago or Saint James were discovered in Galicia. King Alfonso II, king of Asturias, ordered to build a tomb which is located in the Santiago de Compostela cathedral.

According to a legend, the dead body of Saint James was laid on a boat that landed on the coast of Spain. Another legend claims that a farmer found the body centuries later in the area.

The finding of the holy relics literally paved the way for one of the most significant pilgrimages of all times. Today it is not considered a sole Christian pilgrimage any longer but a spiritual or leisure one.

5 Different ways of the camino

Originally, pilgrims started the camino at the door of their homes. Depending in which area they were based, different routes were established.

Today, the network of caminos has expanded all over Europe. However, the classical routes are centered in France, Portugal and Spain. The most famous one starts in St. Jean Pied de Port.

6 Crosses

Unlike in the beginnings of pilgrimages, religion is not the only drive to walk the camino anymore. Nowadays people walk the camino for many different reasons. They are seeking for closure, want to free themselves of emotional baggage or need a break from their lives.

Maybe it is none of that and walking the camino is just what they planned to do in their holidays.

While religion may not play a role in their lives, they will be confronted with crosses and other religious symbols along the camino. This is due to the historical heritage.

The crosses and statues of saints shall guard the pilgrims on their way to the holy city of Santiago de Compostela.

7 Compostela

It is the certificate granted to you after completing at least the last 100 kilometers of the camino on foot. It is issued by the Pilgrim’s office in Santiago de Compostela.

8 Horreo

It took me some googling to find out the name for those raised rectangular stone buildings with crosses on the roofs which I confused as chapels. They originate in the rural parts of Galicia and date back to the 15th century.

Today I know that they were used as granaries to store crops for the winter. In order to keep the storage dry and safe from animals, the horreos stand on rock panels or stilts. You will not miss them once you pass through the Galician part of the camino.

Nowadays, they are no longer in use and some of them look unkept. This is also due to the fact that horreos are considered protected buildings and can only be renovated with a special permit.

9 The end of the world

The Camino Finisterre or Camino de Fisterra is an extension of the camino de Santiago. The Romans believed it to be the most westerly point in Europe, naming it accordingly Finis Terrae, the end of land.

If you decide to continue from Santiago to Finisterre, you need to plan an additional 3 to 5 days. The views over the Atlantic coast from the Finisterre lighthouse are incredible and might feel like an even nicer way to end your camino. You can follow the pilgrim’s tradition and take a bath in the ocean as a symbol of rebirth.

10 Environmentalism

If you intend to walk the camino you should pay extra attention to the environment and sustainability. In fact, it is a well preserved environment which makes the camino a unique experience.

Avoid plastic as much as possible, and if you can’t, dispose of it correctly. If you are in the woods, take your plastic bottle until you reach the city rather than disposing of it in a trash can along the way. Garbage in remote areas is not collected as frequently as in the city. It fills up quicker and can end up in the woods.

Along the camino you will come across many warning signs addressing pollution.
Make the protection of the environment your highest priority on the camino.