4 Enchanting Medieval European Cities Perfect For A Budget-Friendly Summer Posted on May 4, 2024July 12, 2024 By Travelworldwide Europe is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, making it the perfect destination for culture enthusiasts this season. With rising temperatures and the return of nonstop flights to popular spots, it’s an ideal time to visit. However, as demand increases, so do vacation costs. While cities like London, Paris, and Milan are beautiful, they can be pricey and crowded. Instead, consider these four charming medieval towns that offer a quieter and more affordable experience: **Honfleur, France** Just two-and-a-half hours from Paris, Honfleur is a historic harbor town on the Normandy coast. It’s one of France’s best-preserved medieval settlements, known for its picturesque Vieux-Bassin, 16th-century buildings, and the largest wooden church in the country, Église Sainte Catherine. Honfleur inspired artists like Claude Monet and remains relatively affordable, with local restaurant menus costing $15-17 and hotel stays starting at $76. **Granada, Spain** Located in Andalusia, Granada is a top cultural destination, especially in the warmer months. It’s only a 1h20 train ride from the busy coastal resort of Malaga. Granada’s whitewashed, hilly Old Town dates back to the Islamic rule in Spain and is famous for the Alhambra Fortress, a significant Islamic monument. Granada is budget-friendly, with meals costing around $17 and hotel rooms ranging from $50-69. **Gdansk, Poland** Situated on the Baltic Coast, Gdansk is a beautifully restored medieval port city. Its Old Town features a long pedestrianized main street, Długa, lined with colorful façades and tall towers. Key attractions include the Basilica of St. Mary, the Golden Gate, and the iconic wooden Crane. Poland’s lower cost of living makes Gdansk an affordable destination, with spa hotels starting at $64 per night and daily expenses averaging $55. **Varazdin, Croatia** Nestled in Croatia’s hinterland near the borders with Slovenia and Hungary, Varazdin is a historic city known for its Baroque architecture and whitewashed citadel. The pastel-colored Old Town is home to casual cafes, textile shops, and traditional Slavonian restaurants. Varazdin offers a different experience from the coastal cities of Dubrovnik and Split, with a distinct Central European influence. It’s just a one-hour bus ride from Zagreb, and a 3-night stay in a central hotel costs around $269, with meals being 31% cheaper than in touristy Dalmatia. Blog
Blog Experience the Elegance of Hotel Pullman Paris Montparnasse – A Scenic Parisian Retreat Posted on January 26, 2024July 12, 2024 During our pre-Christmas weekend in Paris, we stayed at the Hotel Pullman Paris Montparnasse. This large, modern hotel is located in the 15th arrondissement on the Rive Gauche. It’s a great spot for both business and sightseeing. The staff were friendly and helpful. We stayed in a Deluxe room on… Read More
Blog Must-See Attractions and Activities in Salzburg, Austria Posted on March 21, 2024July 12, 2024 In preparation for a trip to Salzburg, Austria, I sought advice from fellow bloggers on what to do there. Here are some top recommendations that I hope you’ll find useful, even if you can’t fit them all into your schedule. First up is the HohenSalzburg Fortress, a well-preserved castle from… Read More
Blog Indefinite Hold on Maya Train to Tulum: Explore These 4 Alternative Destinations from Cancun This Summer Posted on May 22, 2024July 12, 2024 — We have some unfortunate news for those planning to take the scenic Maya Train from Cancun to Tulum this summer. Despite earlier promises that it would launch after the presidential elections, the much-anticipated southbound section of the Maya Train, which also travels to Lake Bacalar, Chetumal, and other sunny… Read More