Having spent years in the shadow of its big sister, Prague, the Slovak capital, Bratislava, is finally attracting growing interest as a destination – a position it has held since the break-up of Czechoslovakia in 1993. Despite its proximity, we know very little about Slovakia. So why not broaden our horizons to a little-known culture…
Tag: Europe
The 10 best things to do in Oslo on a backpacker’s budget
Scandinavia is hot right now – well okay, not literally. But backpackers are loving this stylishly quirky corner of the world and all the unique cities and natural beauty it has to offer. Take the Norwegian capital for example. There’s a nonchalant coolness about Oslo, it’s chic and modern but minimalist and traditional at the…
Clubs, castles and Cumil: the top ten things to do in Bratislava
While big brother Prague has been on the travel radar for decades, backpackers are only starting to warm up to Bratislava — the Slovak capital since Czechoslovakia broke up in 1993. That might have something to do with an unflattering portrayal in EuroTrip (“It’s good you came in summer — in winter, it can get…
The 12 must-do things to do in Florence
More than 5 years have passed since my Erasmus experience in Florence, the capital of Tuscany, in Italy, and I still feel nostalgic when someone mentions it or I come across a photo of the place. Firenze (its name in Italian) leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all those of us who have…
The best things to do in Helsinki – from steamy saunas to silent chapels!
Think of Finland and the stereotypical image of frozen Rudolph noses and a never-ending miserable winter probably pops into your head. But quirky capital Helsinki has a lot to offer to anyone who is willing to embrace the charm of this small but beautiful city. It’s only in recent years that Helsinki has become popular…
Books, boats and backpacker bargains – our favourite things to do in Oxford
What if we told you that you don’t need to be an academic genius to enjoy Oxford? This charming English city might be known around the world for its prestigious university, but there’s another side to Oxford that’s waiting for you to explore. Think picturesque, historic streets, a thriving arts scene and backpacker-approved nightlife. And…
The best things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania: 9 reasons you must visit right now!
I could spend hours talking about amazing Lithuania, a small country of just under three million people. Its imposing architecture still bears the marks of the past and its beautiful churches and castles have an enchanting atmosphere. This Baltic country, close to Belarus, Poland, Estonia and Latvia, has a sweetness and charm I never expected,…
Top 10 things to do in Antalya
The Turkish city of Antalya and its surrounding province are often passed off as a package-holiday destination – but that’s a mistake. Sure, you’ll find your fair share of ritzy resorts and family-focused attractions along Antalya’s coastline, but there’s plenty to occupy the independent traveller too. From a tangle of ancient sites in the city’s…
Things to do in Malta
Malta may not be on your backpacking radar yet, but it definitely should be. There are countless exciting things to do in Malta and it’s one of those places where there’s something for everyone. For starters, Malta is in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, so the climate is near perfect all year round. Most…
Things to do in Northern Ireland
To many people, Northern Ireland is just somewhere they hear about on the news. But, behind this façade lies a welcoming and friendly place with spectacular landscapes and bustling, youthful cities. There are many things to see in Northern Ireland, with Belfast and the Causeway Coast being named 2018 Region of the Year by Lonely…