We reached Stockholm from Copenhagen. As the train approaches Stockholm, the landscape of the city seems to be dissolving into the waters of Lake Mäleran. Built across 14 islands, the city is in constant conversation with water, and I think Stockholm wears the title 'Venice of the North' more honestly than many other European cities. What First-Timers Should Know About Stockholm Stockholm, like some other European cities, like Paris, Berlin and Rome, to name a few, cannot be just seen; it needs to be experienced. We had only three days, but if possible, I would recommend at least 4 to 5 days in the city to see its many sights and absorb its vibrancy. We were in Stockholm in July, in summer, and it was warm and pleasant, but this is the peak season, there are crowds everywhere, and prices are skyrocketing at this time. Stockholm, in any case, is an expensive city, so planning your vacation is important. This also means that one needs to prioritise what one wishes to see since there are so many museums and conducted tours. 'Fika' is the word that I hear quite often in Stockholm. It refers to hanging out with friends and having coffee, but I think there's more to it than just coffee. They pause their work without rush and guilt over a cup of coffee. That's Fika for you! From what I could gather, Swedes flaunt their rich cultural heritage in many ways with understated pride. The Swedes are a bit reserved, I noticed, in the sense that they will not wave out to strangers like the Brits and Americans, but they are helpful and tourist-friendly. Buses in Stockholm do not accept cash, only cards. It's best to buy tickets at the vending machine beforehand. Top Attractions in My 3-Day Stockholm Itinerary We covered 8 major attractions in our 3 days in Stockholm. But apart from seeing the museums and the attractions in particular, we wanted to spend some time simply strolling along its lively and charming Old Town. Day One in Stockholm Ericsson Globe Arena or Globen As I've mentioned earlier, we reached Stockholm by train from Copenhagen. It was noon by the time we checked into our hotel. By late afternoon, we headed out to see the Globe Arena, people in Stockholm call it the 'Globen'. It's about an hour's walk through the city, or one can catch a metro line that will drop you right next to the mammoth structure. This is the largest spherical building in the world and can accommodate up to 16,000 people when events are hosted here. There are gondolas fixed to the outer facade of the sphere that take you to the top and offer beautiful views of the city. This entire outing will take about 2 hours. My Tip for You Most tourists might not agree with me, but honestly, I did not find the place very exciting. I am quite sure it must be bustling with activity when there is an event, but on the day of our visit, the entire area wore a deserted look. If you have done many gondola rides over mountains and valleys, then skip this one. Go visit the Globen only if you have extra time on hand or if there is some event going on. Drottninggatan, the Main Street in Stockholm After a slow start at Globen, we decided to spend the rest of the day at Drottninggatan. We were staying in the Best Western Hotel, which was situated right in the centre of the street. This is an important pedestrian street in Stockholm, almost 1 and 1/2 km long and also one of the busiest. The entire area is flooded with tourists, eateries, restaurants, fashion brand stores and souvenir shops. My Tip for You You will get a first-hand experience of the culture and the people of Stockholm on the street. The place is very lively in the evening, so spending some time there can be fun. I learnt about the concept of Fika in a small street-side bakery from a friendly, talkative vendor. Day Two in Stockholm Stadshuset - Stockholm City Hall City Hall is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. It is the seat of the Stockholm municipality and is open to tourists only in the summer. Its claim to fame is also the fact that it's the official venue for hosting the Nobel Banquets. It has the famous Blue Hall and the Golden Ballroom. The best way to see the City Hall is by taking the 45-minute guided tour. My Tip for You It is a must-see attraction, I believe. But the most important thing to remember is that the City Hall can be visited only on a guided tour. However, the timings of the guided tour keep changing because there is a lot of state activity in the place since it's an operational office. So, your best bet is to cross-check the timings for the day you plan to visit. No bookings are allowed in advance; only same-day tickets are issued. Sadly for us, all tours of the day were sold out. I had to settle for a picture from the outside only. Take a guided tour and check their website for any changes in timings on the day of your tour on the official website of the City Hall at https://stadshuset.stockholm/en/ Plan in advance and try to arrive early, well before the tour time. There was a lot of confusion when we reached the venue since some tours for the day had been moved around, and a lot of complaining tourists could be seen loitering around. But I still got a nice shot of the iconic Three Golden Crowns on the top of the City Hall! Change of Guard at the Royal Palace After having missed out on our tour of the City Hall, crestfallen, we headed to the Royal Palace to watch the Change of Guard. This is one attraction that brought back the smile to our faces. The Royal Palace is about 2 km from the City Hall, with a walkable distance of 10 to 15 minutes. It's a not-to-miss attraction and worth all the walk to the palace and the wait. This change of guard is ceremonial and elaborate. If you have seen the change of guard at Buckingham Palace, then this is comparable to that in terms of pageantry and fanfare. My Tip for You It's better to reach the palace a bit early and take a nice spot under the shade since the entire ceremony lasts 40 minutes, sharp at 12:15 p.m. on all weekdays and 1:15 p.m. on Sundays. The Royal Palace The Royal Palace of Stockholm, one of the largest in Europe with 600 rooms and long corridors, lies on the waterfront close to Gamla Stan, the old town. It is the official residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden. There are 3 museums inside the palace - The Treasury Tre Kronor Museum depicting medieval history through interesting artefacts Gustav III Museum of Antiquities There is a curious vibe about the palace since the palace serves a three-fold purpose: it is the residence of the king, an active workplace for the state and also a monument that has a lot of cultural and historical significance. There is a lot of grandeur around the palace, and visiting it is surely worth your time and money. Keep about 2 to 3 hours aside to see the entire palace, which is replete with beautiful reception rooms, royal costumes, armoury, the royal treasury, the royal change of guard, of course, and the royal stables with the ornate royal carriages. My Tip for You Even a very conservative estimate would mean spending at least 3 hours on the tour of the palace. Like most palaces, there is a lot of walking involved here, too. So, wear comfortable shoes. One can buy tickets both at the entrance to the Royal Apartments and the Treasury. It wasn't clear which entrance to use to buy tickets. This caused some confusion for us, although eventually, we figured it out. The confusion also ensued because massive crowds hit the entrance as soon as the Change of guard was over. In retrospect, I think we should have seen the palace before the change of guard. I am normally not a big fan of conducted tours with guides who dish out a lot of information that one quickly forgets as one leaves the place, but in this case, I strongly recommend a guided tour to fully appreciate the beautiful artefacts all around because the palace is massive and there is lots to see. Gamla Stan, the Old Town The visit to the palace was rather tiring, so we decided to spend a lazy evening at Gamla Stan, the old town centre. It's a short walk from the palace, and one can see some amazing architecture along the walk. Gamla Stan in Stockholm is the oldest and best-preserved medieval centre in Europe. Buildings with colourful facades, churches and squares lined with shops are a treat to watch. We just sat in Stortorget Square and watched the crowds go by. Look for Storkyrkan, the cathedral with its tall clock tower that you would have to crane your neck to see! It's right next to the Royal Palace, you can't miss it. Just about 5 to 7 minutes away is the islet of Riddarholmen, also called Knight's Island, which is also home to the Church of Riddarholmskyrkan. The church, with its impressive spires and red facade, stands out imposingly on the island. It was earlier used as the resting place of Swedish monarchs. The entire area around the church has stunning views of the city and is separated from the old town of Gamla Stan by a narrow water channel. There is a small stone statue of the 'Swedish Ear' on the embankment called Evert Taube Terass after the famous Swedish poet. Day Three in Stockholm Island of Djurgarden The Island of Djurgården is 3.5 km from Gamla Stan. You can reach there in about 20 minutes by bus or tram from Gamla Stan. The island is very serene and beautiful with excellent infrastructure, and one can easily spend a good part of the day here. There are many historical buildings, monuments, museums and galleries on the island. My Tip for You If you're travelling with kids, then there is a small amusement park Groena Lund, Skansen, an open-air museum, the famous ABBA museum, and of course, the Vasa Museum, touted as the most visited museum in all of Scandinavia. We decided to first visit the Vasa Museum and then spend the rest of the day at the Royal Djurgarden Park. Vasa Museum The Island of Djurgården has many museums. You will have to take your pick of the museum depending on your area of interest. In my opinion, the absolutely not-to-miss out of the whole lot is the Vasa Museum. You can easily spend about 2 to 3 hours inside the museum. Inside Vasa Coming back to Vasa, this refreshingly engaging museum will take you on a flight of fancy through 17th-century life in Sweden. Vasa is the name of a warship that sank on its maiden voyage, and the entire ship was salvaged 333 years later in 1961 and is now on display at the museum. How this massive warship was built and how it sank on its maiden voyage form the crux of this exhibition. The museum displays the lives of sailors, how they lived, what they wore, what they ate, life on the ship and many other facets of their lives in the 17th century. A short film is played throughout the day in the small amphitheatre and is included in your ticket. Kindly check the language of your choice and pick the show. My Tip for You Very close to Vasa is Nordiska, another museum, just a 3 to 4-minute walk from Vasa, that offers interesting insights into Swedish culture and history. Once a week, the entry in the evening is free. If one has extra time, then one must find out the day of free entry. We were left with a last evening in Stockholm. To make the most of it, we spent some time in the beautiful Royal Djurgarden Park. Entry to the park is free. The royal hunting grounds make for some nice walking trails. There are benches to sit along the waterfront. After spending a good two hours, we headed back to Gamla Stan. On the previous day, we were exhausted, but today we walked along its narrow streets and saw the 'Alley of Marten Trotzig', the narrowest alley in Sweden, which is only 35 inches wide. One can never tire of sitting in the town centre of a vibrant city and watching its people go by. Gamla Stan is one such town centre. We spent the entire evening gawking around, savouring locally made cinnamon rolls or Fika, which Sweden is so famous for and soaking in the exuberance of a thriving metropolis that still has its roots in the 13th century.

We reached Copenhagen via an overnight cruise from Oslo. The first view one gets of the city is the windmills on the harbour. The sight is beguiling and sets the tone for tourists waiting impatiently to disembark the ship. First view of Copenhagen Harbour from inside our cabin Copenhagen is a beautiful city with its vast open vistas, canals and roads running alongside, its beautiful palaces, bicycle lanes and gardens. As you walk around the city, you can't help but notice some very old buildings with tall spires on their rooftops. Don't miss the impressive spire on top...Copenhagen is called the City of Spires! Things to Do in Copenhagen in 3 Days Day One in Copenhagen Nyhavn, the harbourfront and Ferry Point We start our trip with a visit to Nyhavn, the harbour front lined with houses with colourful outer facades. This place is every bit touristy and bustling with people from across the globe. This is the place where all the water ferries start, they run very frequently so waiting time is negligible. This is the best way to see all of Copenhagen in about an hour, the Christiansborg Palace, Amalienborg Palace, Black Diamond Library, Opera House and the Little Mermaid. It's a good way to start your vacation in Copenhagen. Christiansborg Palace Just about a 10-12 minute walk away from Nyhavn harbour is the Christiansborg Palace. But before setting out for the palace, we decided to gorge on some Danish ice cream. The street next to the canal where the ferry drops you off is lined with eateries and ice cream parlours, and you will find people sitting on the roadside licking ice creams as they watch ferries come and go. We take an easy stroll to the palace. Tickets are easily available at the reception counter. The palace has many wings, the most popular being the Royal Reception rooms and the chapel. The palace houses the Danish Parliament, the PM's office and the Supreme Court of Denmark. We were happy to discover that a lot of information was written in English on placards next to most attractions inside the palace. The palace reception rooms are a historical heritage of Denmark and are a treat to watch. The term 'green room' originated in this palace. The kings' performers in the palace used a room with all green tapestries as a changing room, so the name stuck. My Tip for You One can easily spend about two to three hours wandering in the palace and absorbing the interesting bits of information about the royal household. You can spend the rest of the evening loitering around Nyhavn or walking along Strøget, the longest pedestrian street in Europe. The street has everything, premium brand outlets like Gucci and Louis Vuitton and everyday shopping brands like Zara and H&M. There are also some old buildings and attractions that you can see as you shop. I had read a lot about the expression 'Hygge' in Danish, in English it would roughly translate to an overall feeling of well-being. I think what we experienced in that street on that day was hygge! Day Two in Copenhagen Amalienborg Palace We start this day with a visit to Amalienborg Palace. We had seen the stunning palace from our canal boat trip and a closer look sounds like a good idea. En route to the palace, we came across this bakery. Sadly, the name eludes me, but one billion flies were certainly not wrong! We ate a sandwich made of local rye bread, that was to die for and a Danish pastry. Interestingly, the Danes don't call their pastry Danish. My Tip for You Amalienborg is the official residence of the Danish royal family. The Amalienborg Palace Square has four palaces. All of them are not open to the public. Christian VIII Palace houses the Amalienborg Museum where you can take a guided tour through the journey of monarchy in the past 150 years. The private chambers of the king and queen can also be seen on this tour. The tour takes about an hour but has to be booked well in advance. Please check the tour dates and timings beforehand. The official website of the palace is https://www.kongernessamling.dk/en/amalienborg/. There are four quarters in the castle square and in its centre is a great photo opportunity in front of the impressive statue of King Fredrik the Fifth, who had this part of the city built and named after him. Also, there is a change of Danish Royal Lifeguards every day at noon. Exactly opposite to Amalineborg is the impressive modern structure of the Royal Danish Opera. There is a nice walking path alongside the water body as you step out of the Amanlienborg palace. The entire area is adorned with stunning artwork including the iconic Little Mermaid. En route to the mermaid is the magnificent sculpture of 'Gefionspringvandet', a fountain that depicts the story of the Norse Goddess Gefion and her oxen pulling a plough. The sculpture suddenly appears on the path leaving the pedestrians awe-struck by its sheer size and intricately carved stonework. We clicked many pictures around the fountain but none of them does justice to this beautiful piece of craftsmanship. And finally, we reach the Little Mermaid.... for the uninitiated, this little mermaid is the central character of a fairytale written by Danish Author Hans Christian Andersen. The petite statue has been made by Edward Eriksen. My Tip for You We spent a whole hour around the area trying to figure out why this small statue was so famous. But then that holds for so many tourist attractions.... as a tourist, we wouldn't leave Copenhagen without seeing the Little Mermaid, so there you go! We took a picture for keepsake and bid goodbye to the little nymph! We had done our fair share of walking for the day, so in the evening we decided to dine at a local bistro to try out some local delicacies. Some rye bread again and a Danish! Day Three in Copenhagen We head to the Round Tower. The tower is open all days of the week and can be a fun outing. It dates back to the 17th century and is still a functional observatory. There are so many steps inside the tower, just a wide spiral ramp to walk on. One can see the entire city of Copenhagen from the top. The climb sounded quite tough in the beginning but the slope is gradual and an easy climb. There were massive crowds at the entrance. Although, once inside, one should set aside at least an hour to look around. Day three also happened to be our last evening in Copenhagen. A trip to this beautiful had to end on a high. And what better high than a trip to the iconic Tivoli Gardens? Tivoli Gardens, I learnt, is the second oldest amusement park in the world, preceded by the oldest, Bakken, which also happens to be in Denmark. We have been to many amusement parks, Disneyland in Hong Kong, La Aventura in Barcelona, and Canada's Wonderland to name a few. But Tivoli has an unmistakable old-world charm. We stayed for a better part of the evening in the park to see it all light up as night fell.

I’d need a whole lot of adjectives to describe the beauty of Norway in plain words; it’s breathtaking, stunning, awe-inspiring, and more. If you're planning to visit this beautiful country, then this Norway Travel Guide will give you lots of practical insights and firsthand tips about things to do. Bird's eye view of Oslo... Things to Know Before Visiting Norway Norway is not crazily touristy, which is a blessing Norway is largely untouched by the spoils of excessive tourism. There are tourists, of course, who flock to this land to soak in its many natural wonders. However, their numbers are still low compared to other popular European destinations like Paris, London and Venice. This also means that no touts throng you as you approach any iconic sightseeing spot. Scenic spots are less commercialised and therefore still retain the sanctity of nature. And that, my friend, is really refreshing! Norway is one of the most expensive countries in Europe If you're planning to visit Norway, add about 15-20% to your regular European vacation to holiday in Norway. Accommodation, dining and transportation can be costly. Planning your trip and budget in advance and booking early can help reduce expenses. But let me assure you that it’s worth every extra penny of your hard-earned money! The weather can change quickly Although summer months are long, even in summer, you may experience sunshine, rain and cool temperatures in a single day. The key is to dress in layers and always carry an umbrella or a waterproof jacket. Distances between cities are longer than they appear If you look at the map of Norway, you will see that it’s spread vertically along the Norwegian Sea and the northern territories reach as far as the Arctic Ocean. Travelling length-wise across the country can be a daunting, expensive task; travel between cities and fjords can take longer than expected due to mountains, winding roads, and ferry crossings. This was our first trip to Norway, so we restricted ourselves to the country's southern parts only on our 15-day trip across the country. If you have more time, then visiting Trondheim, one of Norway's oldest cities, the Lofoten Islands, Norway's most famous northern destination, and Tromso, called Gateway to the Arctic, are obvious destinations for travellers who wish to explore farther north. If you want to see a mountain top, you gear up and climb! There is also no overtly done touristy stuff like funiculars or ropeways connecting you to any of the high mountain peaks. No wonder one of the top tourist attractions in Norway, Pulpit Rock or Prekestolen, has no such shortcuts, not yet. One has to hike for around 4 to 5 hours to reach the top. However, as the number of tourists grows, touristy attractions also grow. So, there is one funicular in Bergen, the Fløbanen (pronounced as Flo-banen) that connects the city centre with the mountain Fløyen since the city of Bergen is a major tourist attraction. And how can one forget to mention the lavish salmon spreads in breakfast buffets all over Norway? Summer offers the longest days If you're visiting between May and August, you'll enjoy extended daylight hours, allowing you to pack more sightseeing into each day. Respect nature and outdoor etiquette Norway has one of the most spectacular mountain peaks in the world. Norwegians revere them, to say the least! They take pride in preserving their natural environment. So, follow marked trails, avoid littering, and respect local regulations when exploring fjords and mountain areas. Book popular fjord cruises and scenic railways beforehand Experiences such as the Flåm Railway and popular fjord cruises can sell out very quickly during the peak summer months, so book them before you travel. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere Norway is largely cashless. Most hotels, restaurants, attractions, and even public toilets accept cards, or rather only cards. We were visiting Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo. Although the park entry is free, the toilets are chargeable Kr. 15/- for use and accept only cards, no cash. I was lucky that a young local woman readily paid for me on her card. Norway Travel Guide: Exploring Oslo, Bergen, Flåm, Ålesund, and Åndalsnes We started our 15-day trip across Norway with the following itinerary, excluding travel time between cities. 4 days in Oslo, 4 days in Bergen (including a day trip to the fairytale village of Flåm), 3 days in Ålesund (including a day trip to the scenic Trollstigen route) 2 days in Åndalsnes Rather than dividing this itinerary day by day, I have organised it by destination. Scenic countries like Norway are best experienced at a relaxed pace, allowing time to soak in the natural beauty, fjords, and charming towns along the way. 4 Days in Oslo: Norway's Vibrant Capital Oslo, like most capitals, is the seat of the government. The entire city can be covered on foot; there are cobbled streets flooded with people, restaurants and roadside kiosks. Karl Johann Gate is the main city hub. The one thing that immediately caught my attention was that the entire street and the area around it are lined with planter troughs filled with seasonal flowers. One can find these planters everywhere in the country, in varying sizes, but identical! These planters were huge and were placed along the main boulevard at Karl Johann Street. On asking around, we learned that this was done deliberately in the year 2017 to prevent any rash rundowns on the street since it was an all-pedestrian area. These troughs also served as ‘terror hindrances’ to provide extra security cover to the area around the parliament to avoid any drive-ins by the terrorists. Imagine using flowers to stop terrorists!! This impressive piece of information set the scene for our journey into this beautiful country. Oslo is quietly vibrant, and the harbour front on the Norwegian Sea is lined with sailboats and fjord cruises. These are cruises that head out into the Oslo fjord and offer drinks and shrimp on board. Along the waterfront is Aker Brygge, an area popular for eateries, shopping, and entertainment. The Nobel Peace Centre and the Peace Bench The famous Nobel Peace Prize Centre is also located here. If you’re interested in history, then spending a couple of paid hours in the museum can be a very enriching experience. The museum offers great free photo opportunities on the famous ‘Peace Bench’ located just outside its premises, named after Nelson Mandela's famous quote "The best weapon is to just sit down and talk". The entire area around the harbour offers cosy sitting spaces with parks and benches, and some beautiful sculptures in bronze and cast iron. So, keeping aside an extra hour to roam around the harbour is a good idea, especially along the harbour promenade along Karl Johann Street. Large, conspicuous orange information towers have been set up along the way to keep you on your path. And how can one forget the Vikings while in Norway? Oslo has lots of museums, I mean lots! Some of them are free, but most of them are not. Ticket prices are steep. If you have an eye for art, then visiting the ‘Munch Museum’, which displays the artworks of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, can be rewarding. One open-air museum that is sure to catch your fancy is the Vigeland Sculpture Park. Entry to the park is free, and there are frequent trams from the Oslo Train Station to the park (Tram line 12). It is the largest park in the world to exhibit bronze and cast-iron statues of the same artist, Gustav Vigeland. One can easily spend a few hours in the park, looking at the statues and marvelling at the detail that has gone into crafting them. Another free attraction in the city of Oslo is the Change of Guard at the Royal Palace at 1:30 p.m. each day. The ceremony is quite sombre compared to the ceremony at Buckingham Palace or the Royal Palace of Stockholm, for example, and lasts for about 40 minutes. But it can be a good pastime on a sunny day. 4 Days in Bergen: Gateway to the Fjords The train ride from Oslo to Bergen lasts 6.5 hours and is absolutely scenic. My word is that you don’t miss the opportunity to opt for any other mode of transport. There is not a dull moment on this train as it flies past quaint little towns, snow-covered peaks, lakes, and ponds. I have never seen so many stunning snow-covered peaks from the cosy confines of a train! The train journey from Oslo to Bergen...don't miss this one! The one thing that comes to mind the moment I think of Bergen is the incessant rain. It rains for almost 200 days a year. If you’re planning any outdoor activity, looking up the day’s weather forecast is a good idea. Bergen has a funicular, as I mentioned earlier, that takes you to the top of the mountain and offers beautiful views of the scenery all around. The highlight of your trip to Bergen is, of course, the row of coloured houses at The Hanseatic wharf. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must on your visit. The wharf has antique shops, picture galleries and museums hidden in small lanes and alleyways offering trinkets. The famous backdrop that Bergen is known for, the Hanseatic Wharf! My advice is that if you want to buy any souvenirs, this is the most reasonable place to do so. We discovered that the prices of such trinkets in other cities in Norway were higher than here. We had to pay more for similar stuff that we did not buy in Bergen. Bergen has an aquarium; if you’re travelling with kids, then it’s worth visiting. I had read somewhere that Bergen has been named the UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Being in Bergen and eating the local cuisine with fresh produce from the sea, I know why. If you’re looking for something exotic, then a trip to ‘Cornelius’ Seafood restaurant, off the coast of Bergen, is a must. The restaurant is located on a small island that offers beautiful views of the fjord. The seating is interesting; one sits right next to the water body in a closed, comfortable space. There is a steward allocated to each group of guests who makes you feel like a royal. There are options for 5-course meals excluding drinks. It includes, though, a 30-minute boat ride from the Wharf to the island with paid drinks on board. The dinner package can dig a hole in your pocket, but the food was every bit sumptuous, and the entire experience was delightful. We were in Bergen for our wedding anniversary, so we decided to splurge. A Day Trip to Flåm: Norway's Fairytale Village Your visit to Bergen is incomplete without a day trip to the fairy tale village of Flåm (pronounced Flum). Apart from the village itself, it’s the train ride with Flåmbana, Flåm railway, that is the show stealer. Whether you're coming from Oslo or Bergen, you need to get down at Myrdal to board the train going to Flåm. We had read a lot about this beautiful train ride from Bergen to Flåm, which side to sit on, what to expect, and so on. After having visited Flam, there are a few points I’d like to make of my own. One, the train runs on a normal gauge, so it’s spacious. This means that whatever side you sit on, you will still be able to see the scenery all around. There are no reservations on this train, so one can sit anywhere. Two, the train maintains a comfortable pace, so one has enough time to look around and take in the sights. So, just relax! The Fairy tale village of Flam.....view from the train! A few minutes into the journey, there is a halt at the famous Kjosfossen Waterfall. Don’t forget to get off the train. The halt is only two minutes, but what a memorable two minutes! Suddenly, there is music, and a water nymph appears out of nowhere around the waterfall. I later learned she’s called Huldra, the enchantress, a forest spirit who lures away men. The spectacle lasts barely two minutes but I am sure you'll remember those two minutes always whenever you talk about Flåm. The mesmerizing song-and-dance by Huldra, the enchantress! The rest of the journey is all oohs and aahs from fellow passengers who are gaping at the scenic sights. Flåm is touristy, and overnight stays can be expensive. It’s a small place, and one can see the entire village easily within a few hours unless you want to spend time biking and hiking around the stunning scenery. There are a few eateries, a souvenir shop and even a small museum at the train station itself. The main village of Flåm is about a 25-minute walk from the train station. Instead of returning to Bergen by the same train, we opted to take a cruise from Flåm to Bergen, because, however scenic, return journeys are never as much fun. Cruising the Sognefjord: The King of Fjords This cruise is on the Sognefjord, the King of Fjords. Sognefjord is the deepest and longest fjord in Norway. The cruise station is right next to the railway station in Flåm. The Cruise on Sognefjord, King of Fjords! Sognefjord is majestic! It serpentines its way through the North Sea and is surrounded by massive, verdant mountains on all sides, with beautiful waterfalls dotting the landscape. The trip takes about 5 and ½ hours. 3 Days in Ålesund: Norway's Art Nouveau Gem Our next stop is Ålesund by air from Bergen. Ålesund is considered to be the most beautiful city in Norway, with a stunning harbourfront and its location right at the entrance to the Geiranger Fjord. One can get stunning views of the city from the Aksla Viewpoint. Ålesund in the background from Aksla viewpoint It takes 418 steps from the town park to get to the top of the viewpoint. On a clear day, one can see the city on one side and the sea on the other. Also, I noticed a lot of trolls in Ålesund, in front of shops, and even grocery stores, which gives a very touristy vibe to the city. Art Nouveau along the shore The city is known for its Art Nouveau; there is a long story behind it. To cut it short, the city was drastically burnt in 1904 and was rebuilt according to the art style of that time. You can take a walk along the harbour and see a lot of houses with colourful facades and curvy outlines along the harbour, lending an old-world charm to an otherwise modern city. There is an Art Nouveau museum if you wish to learn more about the history of the city. In Ålesund, one can get the best Fish and Chips ever! There is a small eatery called ‘Jafs’ right next to the harborfront. Their tagline is ‘Probably the best Fish & chips in the world’. I think they should change it to ‘The best Fish & chips in the world’. Day Trip to Trollstigen: Norway's Most Scenic Mountain Road Ålesund is a popular destination for taking day trips to Trollstigen, the mountain road with curvy bends and a viewing platform. This is a sure not-to-miss attraction. The trip started with a short stop at Gudbrandsjuvet, a tumultuous ravine which is easily accessible from the main road. There are viewing bridges to see the ravine from the top. There is a folklore about a boy named Gudbrand who eloped with the girl he loved and jumped off the cliff, hence the name. Here, one can taste some freshly grown strawberries of the region directly from the field. There are gushing rivers and waterfalls everywhere you look. Next, we drove to the top of Trollstigen via a splendid landscape lining both sides of the road. One has to walk to the top of the mountain to reach the highest viewing platform to see the road, but it’s not as tough as it sounds. The steps are broad and evenly spaced out. Once you reach the top, you’ll know the effort was worth it. One gets a bird’s eye view of the curvy road with hairpin bends, with stunning mountain scenery as the backdrop, and the lusty Stigfossen Waterfall in all its glory from here. There are many local trips available in the city of Ålesund. In fact, the agency we opted for is called LocalTrips. The owner, Trond, was exceptionally helpful and friendly. This blog would be incomplete without mentioning his name. We had to get some changes made in our bus bookings onward from Ålesund. Every time we called, we were put in a long queue and ultimately greeted with an automated message in Norwegian. Trond volunteered to speak to the people at the booking counter on our behalf and got our ticket dates changed. The trip was personally conducted by him and was very interesting and informative. Stunning mountain scenery outside of Ålesund Stigfossen on the left and Trollstigen far below When you’re driving down Trollstigen, remember to keep your camera ready to catch a very up-close view of the cascading waters of this waterfall that you won't want to miss! Our next stop on the trip was the Troll Wall. The wall is an awe-inspiring vertical piece of rock, the tallest cliff in Europe. You can get some great photos here to bring back home and boast about. There are some huge troll figures also waiting to be photographed with you. Don't miss the massive cliffs in the background...The Troll Wall Lastly, there is the trip to Fjellstua, the 418 steps that can take you to the top of a viewing platform for mesmerising views of the entire city of Ålesund, its colourful houses and the surrounding sea. From Ålesund, we embarked on the last leg of our journey in Norway to Andalsnes by bus, which takes about 2 and ½ hours to reach. The route, again, is breathtaking. But by now, I am done making videos, so I just sit back and gaze at the beautiful bridges and lakes passing by. Åndalsnes: Norway's Adventure Capital Åndalsnes is a mountaineer’s paradise. It has the Norwegian Mountaineering Centre at the hub of the town. There is a gondola ride of 4 and ½ minutes to the top of Mount Nesaksla to look down on Åndalsnes and Romsdalsfjord. Apart from these mountaineering and hiking activities, Åndalsnes is quite laid-back and relaxing. We spent a whole day strolling along the shoreline. We stayed at the Grand Hotel, which boasts panoramic views of the Romsdalstindene Peaks. We were lucky to get a room facing the peaks. The view at night was astounding! View at 1 a.m. from our room There is a small cafe around the corner as you walk down from the hotel, called Sødahlhuset. The food was excellent, and it was accompanied by a live singer on her piano. The young girl’s melodious voice breaking through the quiet all around was magical. With this, our trip was coming to a close; there was one attraction remaining, though. The Scenic Train Journey Back to Oslo from Åndalsnes via Dombås Our Norwegian adventure ended with one of the country's most memorable experiences, the train journey from Åndalsnes to Oslo via Dombås. The train runs on the famous Rauma Line, and the views outside could make you catch your breath. The first leg on the Rauma Railway winds through dramatic mountain scenery, deep valleys, and waterfalls, making it Norway's most spectacular train journey. After changing trains at Dombås, the route continues south towards Oslo through stunning landscapes. This train ride has been rated as the most scenic train journey by Lonely Planet, and rightly so. I took out my camera and could never put it back. It chugs its way through the beautiful valley of Romsdalen, and the high cliffs, rivers, green mountains, and waterfalls all seem to be following the train. These picturesque last 5 and ½ hours by train will always be my lasting memory of this beautiful country.

You cannot miss Italy on the World map with its distinct boot-shaped landmass jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea in the southern part of Europe. Just the way you simply cannot miss the iconic monuments seeped in history scattered all over Italy that are the remains of the formidable Roman civilisation. These historical artefacts attract over 65 million visitors every year, making Italy the fifth most visited country in the world. Planning a trip to Italy can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. From historic cities and scenic coastlines to local culture, Italy offers experiences that are very different from one destination to another. Before you finalise your itinerary, there are a few things to know before planning a trip to Italy. In this guide, I'll share 10 essential tips to remember before you plan your Italy vacation. Things to Know Before Planning a Trip to Italy Number of Travel Days If you're travelling to Italy for the first time, then keep at least 10 to 12 days for your visit, even a bit more won't hurt. Starting in Rome, the city is laden with all the touristy goodies and choosing one over another will be a tough task. Followed by Florence, Pisa, Venice, the Amalfi coast, Pompeii, Milan and of course, the Vatican. Each of these charming destinations has so much to offer that you will be spoilt for choice, so don't cram too much in too little time, because most of these attractions are time-consuming to visit. 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy Italy has 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the largest ever in one country. Out of these 58 heritage sites, 53 are cultural sites, and 5 are natural. No one can compress 58 worth-seeing sights into a short itinerary, so plan your vacation by carefully picking the sites you actually wish to see. Whether you visit the Colosseum, or the canals of Venice, or the historic centre of Florence, you'll constantly experience places of cultural and historical importance. Planning your itinerary around these iconic landmarks can make your trip memorable. Choose the Right Time to Travel Summer is the peak tourist season, which translates into more crowds everywhere. Commodity prices skyrocket during the summer months. Spring and autumn are usually considered the best times to visit because of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is also a great option with lower prices and festive markets. So, plan your vacation judiciously so as to make optimum utilisation of your time and money. Carry Cash for Small Purchases but Beware of Pickpockets While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Italy, carrying some cash in small denominations of euros is always a wise thing to do. Local cafes, small souvenir shops, public washrooms, and family-run restaurants accept only cash at times. At the same time, avoid carrying too much cash while exploring crowded tourist areas like Rome, Venice or Florence. These cities are infamous for their pickpockets and petty thieves who steal wallets, bags and phones. Thankfully, we didn't run into one, but have heard stories of people's belongings getting stolen. Travelling by trains Trains are the cheapest mode of transport throughout Italy. High-speed trains connect all major cities and tourist attractions. Train travel with such massive crowds is faster and less stressful than driving, especially in historic city centres where parking can be a nightmare. For instance, you can do a day trip to Pisa from Rome via train. There are a lot of trains, but the Frecciabianca or FB is especially good as it takes you along the scenic coastal route. The best part is that the Leaning Tower is within walking distance of the railway station. Cutting across massive crowds Italy is bustling with tourists at all times. There are massive queues anywhere you go. I have not seen so many tourists walking around with maps and cameras anywhere else in the world. So, plan your itinerary to beat the crowds. To see the famous landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican, it's best to arrive early in the morning. As I've mentioned earlier, there are many attractions in Rome to see. If you have limited time, then pick the ones you really wish to see first. For instance, on our trip to the Vatican, there were massive crowds and multiple queues lined up for different areas of the Basilica. We ended up getting into the wrong queue, which led to the tombstones. There is no coming out if you've entered the wrong queue. We ended up spending two extra hours trying to get out and get into the right one for the chapel. Finalise Prices before availing any service In many places in Italy, if you're availing a service, be sure what you have to pay for it. In Rome, around the Colosseum, there are men dressed as knights and gladiators, wearing centurion costumes. First, they'll coax you to take pictures with them and then harass you for money. Sometimes, they'll ask you to pay an exorbitant amount of money, like 100 euros for a picture. I'll have to mention here, though, that we've heard such accounts from fellow travellers. Luckily, we never encountered such harassment; these guys quoted 2 euros for this picture. Many others don't. Such incidents are common in Italy, so establish clearly what you have to pay in advance. And don't get spooked out by the loud and a-bit-too-garrulous Italians, who swing their hands and make a lot of facial expressions as they talk. Travelling by buses Buses are a convenient and budget-friendly mode of transport for travelling within Italy, in smaller towns and areas that may not be directly connected by trains. They are especially useful for reaching hill towns, coastal villages in regions like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. Before boarding, always check the timetable and bus schedules, since they can vary on weekends and holidays. In some cities, tickets need to be purchased from the kiosks or ticket machines rather than from the driver. Don't forget to validate your tickets, since random inspections are common and fines are hefty. Shopping in Italy Italy is known for its leather goods. You will find markets flooded with leather goods everywhere in Italy, both in high-end stores and flea markets. You will get the most variety of leather bags in Florence in the marketplace around the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. I bought 3 leather bags from an Italian brand, Guidi, in Venice. They turned out to be quite good. I also bought a bag from a roadside shop in Rome for a seemingly good price, but the leather came off really fast. Don't ever buy a fake brand in Italy; one, it's illegal, and two, the leather will peel off in no time. In my opinion, it's best to buy from a regular shop that is a known Italian brand. Venice, known for the world-famous Carnival of Venice, is also the best place to buy Venetian masks. They are available in many sizes, shapes, colours and types in Venice, in various price ranges. There are some mask shops in the small islands of Murano and Burano, also close to Venice. Murano is also known for its intricate glass pieces. You will see a lot of glassware, glass jewellery, and even glass watches in the narrow streets of Venice, which are lined with small kiosks and shops. At times, they sell fake Murano glass. It's best to buy glassware from a factory in Murano or from an established glass gallery only. Savouring Italian cuisine Italians take their pizzas and pasta very seriously. While in Italy, you should try different kinds of pasta. There are over 100 kinds of pasta, each of them with a specific purpose. You should try as many as you can. Pizzas are everywhere in Italy. In Ristorante, as they call their restaurants in Italian, and in roadside Pizzerias. What I found really interesting was the way they cut out huge slices of pizza with a pair of scissors for you. It is always served fresh, but with no extra condiments except olive oil. I found the classic Italian simplest pizza, Margarita, the yummiest of all. And yes, Italians do love to decorate their windows and balconies with flowers. This is a common sight in Italy... If fresh flowers are not available, then fake ones are okay. All I can say is that Italy is everything that one can ask for in a dream destination. It has the romance of history, the warmth of a very vibrant culture and the indulgence of great shopping. Benvenuto in Italia!! Want to learn more about an Italian vacation? 3 days in romantic Rome https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-3-days-in-romantic-rome Day trip from Rome to the Vatican https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-day-trip-to-the-vatican-from-rome Day trip to Pisa from Rome https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-10-things-you-should-know-about-pisa-before-you-go-visiting 2 Days in Florence https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-2-days-in-florence-the-city-of-architectural-marvels 3 Days in Venice https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-3-days-in-venice-the-queen-of-the-adriatic-sea

Even if you have just 3 days in Rome, spending one whole day at the Vatican will be worth your time. In this blog, you will find all the relevant information for planning a day trip to the Vatican from Rome. The Vatican is not just the most revered institution for Christians throughout the world, but it's also an architectural marvel. You will not find a better example of such a perfect amalgamation of Roman, Baroque and Gothic architecture in one monument. The stunning colonnade at St. Peter's Square, the iconic Dome that is visible from the River Tiber and the crowds that make this place come alive are sights that should not be missed. Things to Know Before Planning a Day Trip to the Vatican from Rome Book Vatican Tickets in Advance Close to 25,000 people visit the Vatican daily, making the Vatican one of the most visited places in the world! Queues for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel can become extremely long, so booking your tickets online can save you a lot of hassle. Entry and Visa to the Vatican is free, although you must buy tickets for the museums and entry into St.Peter's Basilica. Do not depend on buying tickets at the last moment. The queues are really long, and mostly the tickets will be sold out for the day. You must buy them in advance. I am not a big fan of conducted tours, but in the case of the Vatican, I'd say not just tickets, you must also book a conducted tour in advance. We did not have a pre-booked tour and had to face a lot of commotion in the morning when we arrived. How to Reach the Vatican from Rome Although the Vatican City lies in Rome, it is treated as a separate country with its own flag and occupies an area of only 0.49 square kilometres. If you're living around the city centre in Rome, then the best way to get to Vatican City is by Metro Line A. Get off at the Ottaviano-S Metro Station just outside the Vatican and walk right in. In fact, you can walk to the Vatican from anywhere in Rome. Maybe that's how the popular saying 'All roads lead to Rome' was born. But remember, there is a lot of walking involved during the day within the Vatican itself, so save up your energy for that. Dress Modestly for the Churches in the Vatican Vatican City is the seat of the Pope, the head of the Catholic Church worldwide. Since it is a deeply revered religious institution, it is advisable to wear covered, modest clothing. I have heard that visitors who are not appropriately dressed can be refused entry into the chapel. There are restrictions on certain types of footwear, too. Please check their website https://www.vatican.va/ for more details and updates. Keep Enough Time for the Museums and Basilica Many visitors underestimate how much time is needed to properly explore Vatican City. The Vatican Museums are massive, with countless galleries, historic rooms, famous artworks, and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Visiting St. Peter's Basilica and climbing the dome itself can take many hours. If you're keen on seeing it all, then keep aside at least 4 to 6 hours for your Vatican trip. There are massive crowds and queues everywhere. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and don't rush through the sights to make this trip memorable. Plan What to See at the Vatican There are lots of attractions at the Vatican. So, knowing what you wish to see beforehand and planning your trip here is important. We wanted to see St. Peter's Basilica and the museums, but because of a massive surge of crowds that day, we ended up in the wrong queue, leading to the tombs. Getting out of the queue and entering the relevant one took over 2 hours. Things to Do in the Vatican City St. Peter's Square This is the entry point to the Vatican right outside St. Peter's Basilica. Access to the square is free with no restrictions on clothing, etc. If you have less time, then you can see the Vatican from the outside here. Its most distinguishing feature is the dome and the massive colonnade on the outer facade of the church. St. Peter's Basilica This is the seat of the Pope and Christianity. Since it's an active church, there are days for ceremonies and processions when it might be closed to the general public. Please check the official website https://www.vatican.va/ for updates before you plan your visit. Many artefacts and attractions inside the Basilica are very intriguing, with years of history behind them. In my opinion, the best way to see this is with a conducted tour or an audio guide to fully appreciate the beauty of this place. My Tip for You As soon as you enter the Basilica, close to the entrance, is the sculpture of the Pieta. This beautiful sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary holding the dead body of her son, Jesus Christ. This is the only sculpture to have been signed by Michelangelo. There are a lot of people struggling to see this artwork, so wait for your turn patiently. This is like watching the famous Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum in Paris. You just have to wait for your turn. Entry to the ground floor of the Basilica is free, but please mind the dress code. St. Peter's Dome The Dome, designed by Michelangelo, is truly magnificent. One just can't stop looking at the intricacy of its design from the square below. If you wish to go to the top, then entry is paid, and it takes 300 steps to climb to the top. We gave this one a miss since we were short of time, but if you can, then I am sure it's worth its while. Vatican Obelisk The 25.5 m high obelisk is in the centre of St. Peter's Square, and you can't miss it. It was brought from Alexandria, Egypt. What makes it special is that it is the only remaining standing obelisk in Rome since Roman times. The Vatican Museums You must have read a lot about the Vatican Museums. There are a total of 54 galleries that are collectively called museums. The museums are massive, filled with jaw-dropping artworks full of colour and creativity. We spent almost 3 hours, gaping at the stunning art pieces and collectables the museums have to offer. There are artworks from across civilisations. The Raphael Rooms are also quite interesting. There are depictions of many important historical events here. The star of this trip is, of course, the Sistine Chapel. The chapel is stunning to say the very least. The fresco by Michelangelo of the Last Judgement on the chapel's altar wall is truly awe-inspiring. Most of us are just tourists and not connoisseurs of art, but the drama and colour of this fresco exude grandeur and richness that is sure to catch your fancy. The famous painting on the ceiling in the chapel is the depiction of God extending his hand towards Adam. We have all seen this artwork in the famous Hollywood movie '2012' when an apocalypse hits the world, and St. Peter's Basilica is shown crumbling down. You have to crane your neck to see this artwork. Anyone seeing this artwork will be amazed at its intricacy and delicacy. You will need at least 3 hours to go through the museums, including the Sistine Chapel. My Tip for You Must book all your Vatican tickets in advance. Must take a pre-booked guided tour of the museums. Otherwise, though you can see the stunning artwork, you won't be able to comprehend its historical significance. Before I visited the Vatican, I thought guided tours were for history buffs only, but in the Vatican, you will not mind becoming a student of history for this one time. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel, so try to imprint as much as you can on your memory. We did see some tourists trying to take pictures and getting yelled at by the guards. The pictures pasted above are from an authorised portal. Vatican Gardens If you have any time left after you visit St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, then you must visit the Vatican Gardens. They are massive and cover over half of the total area of the Vatican. They have stunning fountains, the Belvedere Courtyard and the perfectly manicured Italian Garden. Interestingly, a part of the Berlin Wall is also put on display here. This was a gift to the Vatican. Access to the gardens is paid. We had spent a greater part of the morning trying to figure out our plan at St.Peter's Basilica, so there was no time and energy left to see the gardens, but with better planning, this should be included in your Vatican itinerary. Our entire day trip to the Vatican lasted over 8 hours. Overall, it was a great trip. My only regret is that we should have gotten our history lessons from pre-booked conducted tours of the Vatican instead of spending over an hour planning our visit after reaching there! I hope this blog will help all those who are planning to visit the Vatican. Nonetheless, we came face to face with so much history, art and architecture that have all been kept alive in this smallest country in the world.

After spending 3 heady days full of excitement in the Italian capital, we headed to Pisa. Rome to Pisa is approximately 300 kilometres. The best and most scenic way to visit Pisa on a day trip from Rome is by train, which takes about 4 hours from the Rome Train Station to Pisa Central. The train goes past beautiful coastal scenery as the entire track lies close to the sea. However, the cheapest way to travel to Pisa is by bus, which takes about 6 hours. Many people do day trips from Rome, too. But since our trip to Rome had come to an end, we left for Pisa with our bags packed. Things to Know Before Visiting Pisa on a Day Trip from Rome If you're not planning to stay overnight in Pisa and have plans for a forward journey, you can put your luggage in a locker at the station itself. This is what most tourists do, this is what we did, and it worked out to be quite convenient. The Piazza del Duomo, also called the Square of Miracles, with its Leaning Tower of Pisa, is very close to the train station, just a 20-minute walk. If you're interested in half-day or full-day guided tours of Pisa, then they are available from both Rome and Florence. Although reaching Pisa on your own is also fairly straightforward, and in my opinion, one doesn't really need a guided tour. The Leaning Tower is a part of the Piazza del Duomo, also called the Square of Miracles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the four important structures, the Cathedral, the Leaning Tower, the Baptistry and the Cemetery. Again, like everywhere else in Italy, the Square of Miracles is very crowded. If you want to go to the top of the Leaning Tower, then book your tickets in advance. A strict schedule is followed, with a limited number of visitors allowed to enter the tower, so advance bookings are a must. Before booking tickets for the Leaning Tower, remember there are about 300 steps to the top on a spiral staircase. Once you reach the top with a tour group, you can spend about 30 minutes at the top to get beautiful views of the city and the cathedral. The Square of Miracles has beautifully manicured gardens around the stunning white marble buildings. Everything about this place is serene and peaceful. One can easily spend at least 3 to 4 hours at the site, even if one decides not to climb the tower. The Cathedral is also a not-to-miss attraction. The intricate stonework on the exterior facade of the structure is breathtakingly beautiful. It's so delicate that it almost looks like lacework on the bodice of the church. Like everyone else around, we just sat on the grass and kept looking at this mesmerising piece of architecture. The inside of the cathedral is equally beautiful. The famous marble pulpit is a delight to watch. I don't understand much of art, but the pulpit, the ceiling and the columns, everything is so stunning to look at. If you're a history buff, then read about this architecture beforehand to not just see but also comprehend the beauty of this monument and the way it was developed and maintained over the years. Entry to the cathedral is free, but you have to present the ticket and register for a timeslot beforehand, because, as I've mentioned multiple times in all my Italy blogs, there are huge crowds everywhere. If you have extra time on hand, then you must go to Borgo Stretto. This is a very happening street in Pisa. It's about a 10 to 12-minute walk from the Piazza del Duomo. The street is very busy since all the people who come to see the Leaning Tower come here too. The vibe on the street is amazing. There are shops and eateries. You won't even have to look up your Google map. Just ask for Borgo, and someone will guide you there. If you want to explore the Tuscany region of Italy, onward from Pisa, with its rolling landscapes and olive trees, then Pisa can serve as a gateway to the Northern Tuscany region. There are trains at one-hour intervals to Florence, the capital of Tuscany, which makes travel very easy. And this is exactly what we did. We boarded a train to Florence! See you in Florence https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-2-days-in-florence-the-city-of-architectural-marvels

After seeing the ruins of ancient Roman civilisation in Rome and the stunning architecture of the Piazza del Duomo in Pisa, Florence will beckon you with its Renaissance architecture and its many art galleries! You should plan to spend at least 2 days in Florence, to take in the sights and do some shopping, if you wish. After spending a better part of the day in Pisa, we walked back to Pisa Centrale to catch a train to Florence. There is a train every hour, and it takes anywhere from 1 hour to 1.5 hours to reach Florence. Florence is a city bursting with stunning architecture. We reached Florence in the evening from Pisa, so we decided to just walk around to soak in the vibrance of the city, in every square and every corner. Things to Do in Florence in Two Days Day One in Florence Piazza del Duomo We started our day with a visit to the famous Piazza del Duomo. It is one of the most visited sites in Europe and the most frequented place in Florence. Entrance to the area around the Piazza is free. If you buy tickets for the Duomo Complex, then it will grant you admission to all monuments in the Piazza del Duomo. The Piazza has four very distinct monuments 1. Florence Cathedral or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore The cathedral is the fourth-largest church in the world. The exterior facade of the church is stunningly beautiful. The white, pink and green marble gives it a truly mesmerising touch. You can spend an entire morning looking at it from different angles. We had seen pictures of the cathedral, but standing in front of it, the beauty of this building looks surreal. Entry to the cathedral is free. You have to buy tickets to visit the dome, the Bell Tower and the Baptistery, though. Please check their website for more details on the type of ticket you wish to buy and the validity of the ticket. Guided tours of the cathedral are also available. I am not a fan of guided tours; there is too much history to swallow in a short time. But if you're interested, you will have to make bookings with tour operators. The interior of the cathedral is also nice, though not as stunning as the outer facade. You can easily spend an hour or so taking in the intricacies of its artwork. 2. Giotto's Bell Tower Adjacent to the Florence Cathedral lies the Bell Tower. It is considered to be a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. The tower is stunning and has the option of climbing to the top. 3. Baptistery of St. John Right in front of the Florence Cathedral lies the Baptistery of St. John. You cannot miss its octagonal structure and the beautifully intricate coloured marblework on its outer walls. 4. Museum - Museo dell'Opera del Duomo Just about 3 to 4 minutes away from the Baptistery is the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. The museum is massive, and there are almost 20 rooms filled with beautiful sculptures and artefacts from the Medieval and Renaissance eras. Piazzale Michelangelo Piazzale Michelangelo is a vantage point about 2.4 km away from the city and offers beautiful views of Florence. You can see the tops of churches, houses, and buildings in the city. From the Fratelli Rosella Bus stop, take a bus that will take you to the top of the hill. It takes 27 minutes. You can also walk up the mildly inclined hillside, but we were tired from all the walking during the day, so we settled for the bus. There is also a replica of Michelangelo's David right in the centre of the square. The best time to visit this square is around sunset, when you get panoramic views of the city of Florence against the backdrop of the sunset. Day Two in Florence After an enriching and not to forget, exhausting, day one, we set out to see two other important landmarks of Florence. Ponte Vecchio Ponte Vecchio, the medieval stone bridge built over the Arno River, is the oldest stone bridge in Europe. This stone bridge has not only witnessed the destruction caused during World War II but also survived it. There is an unmistakable air of romance in the area around the bridge. It was customary in Italy to have shops atop bridges. So, this old bridge is also lined with goldsmith shops and luxury watch brands. It makes for a good walk and window shopping. Uffizi Gallery Just a 2-minute walk away from Ponte Vecchio is the magnificent Uffizi Gallery. This treasure trove of Renaissance art in the form of ancient sculptures and paintings should be on your must-see list for your Florence trip. The most important thing to remember is to book your tickets in advance online. Tickets to the gallery sell out weeks in advance. If you're serious about seeing the gallery, get your tickets beforehand. We did not do so, since we were not sure whether we'd have enough time to see this gallery on our 2-day trip, and sadly, we had to forego this attraction. Piazza della Signoria A visit to the Uffizi Gallery proved to be a disappointment. Since this was our last evening in Florence, we decided to spend it at the Piazza della Signoria, considered to be the most beautiful square in Florence. The Fountain of Neptune Piazza della Signoria is like an open-air museum filled with statues and museums, including the Uffizi Gallery. Entry to the Piazza is free; you need to buy tickets for the Old Palace and the Uffizi Gallery. The most prominent buildings in the Piazza are... Palazzo Vecchio This is the Old Palace and is still used for the offices of the Town Hall. There is a lot of history about the Medici Family of Florence here. At the entrance to the Old Palace is a massive replica statue of David by Michelangelo. Loggia della Signoria This is an open-arched gallery that was made to host public ceremonies. There are many beautiful sculptures here; the one to look out for is the marble statue of 'Rape of the Sabine Women'. The gallery is free and is open 24/7. Uffizi Gallery - Already discussed above. Fountain of Neptune This stunning fountain made out of white marble shows a huge statue of Neptune, the Sea God and his chariot driven by four horses. If you have limited time, then you can skip going inside the Old Palace. There is a beautiful courtyard in the front, where you can hang out for free. As I always state in all my blogs, as tourists, one must always pick and choose the museums and monuments one wishes to see. Things to Know Before Visiting Florence Tips for Visiting Piazza del Duomo Book dome climb tickets in advance. Walk up the steps (around 400) to the top of Brunelleschi's dome. The climb is quite strenuous but worth the effort. However, if you have trouble climbing steps, then don't attempt this one. You will be able to see the fresco of the Last Judgement up close and enjoy beautiful views of the city of Florence from the top. If you have climbed the Cathedral Dome, then climb Giotto's Bell Tower on the same day. It's going to be extremely tiring since there are again about 400 steps to the top. We skipped it; we had done our climbing for the day. For the Baptistery of St. John, it won't take more than 20 minutes to see it from the inside, but don't miss it! The amount of time you wish to spend at the museum will depend on your interest, but still, you should keep aside at least 2 hours to walk through the museum. By the time most tourists reach this museum, they have seen the museums in the Vatican. So, either their interest in history is piqued, or they are done with museums. In our case, I think it was the latter. Now, we wanted to explore the city and its many delights. Dress modestly for entering the cathedral. Expect very long queues during peak season. Tips for Visiting Ponte Vecchio Be prepared to find massive crowds on the bridge. Walk a bit further down, and you get the best views of the bridge, away from the thick crowds. While on the bridge, enjoy the crowds and the sights, and avoid shopping because the prices are exorbitant, as is the case with most touristy places. Tips for Visiting the Uffizi Gallery The gallery is closed on Mondays. Make advance online bookings. If you don't, then be prepared to be disappointed since it's quite unlikely to get same-day tickets. Avoid weekends as they are super crowded. The Uffizi is one of the most famous museums in Italy and a coveted tourist attraction, as we could gather from the massive crowds waiting to enter the gallery. Try to reach early if you wish to see all the exhibits at leisure. The exhibition is spread over a whopping 13,000 sq m. Keep aside 2-3 hours to see all of it. Please don't forget to carry an ID. You will need to show it to enter the gallery. With this, we came to the close of our 2-day trip to Florence. To sum up, I would say that if possible, you should keep at least 3, if not 4, days for Florence. The entire city oozes historical charm that needs ample time to be savoured. Our next and last destination in Italy was Venice... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/italian-delights-3-days-in-venice-the-queen-of-the-adriatic-sea

There is no place like Venice! I fell in love with it the moment our train reached the train station Santa Lucia, and I saw the Grand Canal flowing right outside. The beautiful city of Venice is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea on all sides. There are about 118 small islands that are connected by canals and bridges that together make up Venice. At the end of this blog, I have compiled a list of important tips for visiting the popular attractions in Venice to help you plan the perfect 3-Day itinerary. Is Venice Worth Visiting? Before I discuss the tourist attractions of Venice in detail, I'd like to address the many conflicting views that I'd read about Venice on various media platforms before our visit. You might also come across many such views. On the one hand, there are people like me who would swear by the sheer romanticism of the city....an entire city connected by canals! What could be more alluring for tourists who are always looking for picture-perfect backdrops? On the other hand, though, there are people who get too flustered by all the crowds that throng the city and the high prices that come with visiting one of the most famous cities in the world. Let me try to put this debate in perspective for you...and also share my opinion with you. Venice is highly touristy, so much so that you will hardly come across any locals except the ones working in restaurants or in other service-oriented fields. There are tourists everywhere; this comes with certain problems for everyone. The prices of all basic commodities shoot up, not to mention the massive toll such tourism takes on the fragile ecosystem of the city. More tourists obviously translates into more expensive hotels and restaurants. There are tourist traps everywhere in the form of restaurants that overcharge and shops that quote exorbitant prices. So, the only way to enjoy your stay in Venice is to have all your bookings in place with a clear-cut itinerary and keep extra time to navigate through all the crazy crowds. Best Time to Visit Venice Choosing the best time to visit Venice depends on the kind of experience you're looking for. The most popular time to visit Venice is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the city is lively. However, July and August are the most crowded and expensive months. If you want fewer crowds and want to go easy on your wallet, then going in winter, December to February, might be a good idea. Venice feels quieter and more atmospheric. But this time of the year, one important thing to keep in mind is the possibility of Venice getting flooded, locally known as Acqua Alta. Acqua Alta is a temporary phenomenon that occurs between October and March due to high tides. While the water level recedes quickly, it can affect transportation and the walking routes across the city. However, Venice is well prepared for it, and elevated walkways are often installed in affected areas, but it might dampen the overall touristy experience of the city for you. Personally, I feel that the shoulder seasons, April to June and September to October, offer the best balance between pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and overall experience. How to Spend 3 Days in Venice Day One in Venice Anyone visiting Venice for the first time is totally enamoured by the canals. There are boats parked in front of houses instead of cars, giving the city an out-of-this-world feel. We started our first day in Venice, loitering around the canals and clicking pictures around the city. There are people everywhere, walking around, shopping in the narrow winding streets for glass jewellery and watches and not to forget, masks. I also bought some trinkets from the alleys only to discover later that the best place to buy glassware is Murano. We'll come to Murano later in the post. St. Mark's Square Keep walking along with the other tourists in the narrow alleyways, and you suddenly reach a big public square, called Piazza San Marco or Saint Mark's Square. There are hundreds of people in the square....we couldn't stop wondering how so many people could walk through the narrow streets to reach here. This is one of the most iconic public squares in Italy. Surrounded by grand historic buildings and important landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica, the square captures the grandeur of Venice. St. Mark's Basilica Located right on St. Mark's Square, the basilica is one of the most magnificent churches in Venice, famous for its Byzantine architecture. Entry to St. Mark's Basilica is free. But that really doesn't help because there are so many people waiting in the queue to gain entry. If you're keen on seeing this basilica, then a guided tour is your best bet. It is best to book skip-the-line tickets in advance. Dress modestly as it is an active place of worship. Doge's Palace On the far side of the Basilica is a beautiful Gothic-style structure called the Doge's Palace. Doge, I learnt later, was the highest authority in the Republic of Venice, and this was his residence. Tickets to the palace are available at the main entrance ticket counter, but remember, you will have to show some ID to get access to the palace. We were not carrying our passports, so we could not go inside. The safest way to see the palace is to make advance bookings; you will also be able to beat the crowd. Gondola Ride on the Grand Canal The Grand Canal offers some of the most iconic views in Venice. Lined with historic palaces, charming bridges, and bustling water traffic, this main waterway of Venice cuts beautifully through the heart of the city. One of the most popular ways to see the Grand Canal is by taking the traditional gondola ride through the smaller canals connected to the Grand Canal. We hired a gondola from St. Mark's Square. The ride was a memory worth cherishing. The gondoliers are all dressed up in traditional attire, the boats are spic-and-span, and the ride is accompanied by anecdotes of history. Our gondolier, I forget his name, was not just talkative, but he also hummed his way melodiously through the entire boat ride. Day Two in Venice Visiting the Island of Burano We started our second day in Venice with a visit to the beautiful islands of Burano and Murano, starting with Burano. The easiest and most common way to get to Burano is by Vaporetto, a Water Bus, which takes about 45 minutes to reach. The island is really small; you can see the entire island in about 2 hours. The charming seaside village of Burano will entice you with its rows of colourful houses and its shops filled with lacework. The village seems to belong to a different era; you will see elderly women making intricate patterns with lace, oblivious to the tourists watching them. The island is so beautiful that words fail me to describe it. We spent the first hour just ogling at houses; it seemed as if witches from some fairytale would fly on their brooms out of the chimneys atop these houses. The locals are friendly. On enquiring about the coloured houses, I learnt from a local shop owner that these houses were painted in bright colours so that fishermen could find their way back to the village even during thick fog. And then, the village came to be recognised by its colourful houses, so the tradition stuck. You can start your Burano trip by visiting Piazza Baldassare Galuppi, the square with the statue of the famous composer Galuppi in its centre. If you look around, you will see the local church, Saint Martin Bishop, and the Leaning Tower. Yes, Burano has its very own tower that leans. It's not as dramatic as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, though. Piazza Baldassare Galuppi, Burano After loitering around Burano and seeing the beauty of this enchanting village, we headed back to the ferry point to go further to Murano. Visiting the Island of Murano The journey with the vaporetto to Murano takes about 25 minutes, and is as much fun as the ride to Burano from Venice. Murano is world-renowned for its glassware. Murano greets you with a beautiful glass sculpture! The island of Murano is a group of 7 small islands connected by bridges. Again, we spent an hour just walking around this quaint island, past shops displaying fascinating items made of glass. There are some cafes also where you can sit and bask in the romanticism of this island over a snack or a cup of coffee. There is a Glass Museum in Murano that takes you on a tour of glass-making techniques and the history of glass-making in Murano. This was our second last day in Italy, and we'd had our fill of museums in Italy. We decided to look at the shops selling very interesting glass artefacts instead. You can even buy Venetian masks made of glass! Another beautiful structure to see in Morano is the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato. The church is known for its stunning mosaic floors and rightfully so! You can spend about 30 minutes to an hour inside. One of the most famous attractions of Murano is its glass factories. If you're interested, then you can book tours of these factories that include taking you around on a tour of the factory and glass-blowing demonstrations, depending on the tour you buy. Day Three in Venice St. Mark's Campanile (Bell Tower) We started our day with Saint Mark's Square again. We wanted to wander the streets of Venice one more time on our last day here. On our first day in Venice, we had not seen Saint Mark's Campanile. The Bell Tower is situated right next to St. Mark's Basilica. You can buy a ticket and go up the elevator to get scenic views of Venice. Bridge of Sighs We also wanted to see the famous old baroque bridge, the Bridge of Sighs. Normally, tourists see this bridge on the gondola ride from the canal. I might have also seen it, but at that time, we were so enamoured with the ride itself that we missed the bridge. I'd read about this bridge and the many myths attached to it. Its name, the 'sighs', refers to the sighs of prisoners who must have passed over it since the bridge connects Doge's Palace to the New Prison. The myth is that if lovers kiss each other right under the bridge, then their love will become eternal. Don't miss the opportunity to do that on the gondola ride. The other good way to see it is from the Bridge of Paglia. This bridge is just behind St. Mark's Square, and you can see the Bridge of Sighs from here. Rialto Bridge From there, we went to see the iconic Rialto Bridge. It is only a 5 to 6-minute walk from Saint Mark's Square. You don't have to look for the bridge on a map or anywhere; the Rialto Bridge is like the central point of Venice, and you will see a lot of signage at various places in the city giving directions to the bridge. The Rialto Bridge is one of the oldest arched bridges in Venice, built over the narrowest point of the Grand Canal and the most frequented attraction in Venice. Very close to the Rialto Bridge is the Rialto Marketplace. A visit to this market will give you an interesting insight into everyday Venetian life. Here you can get all kinds of fruits and vegetables, and some amazing seasonal fruits. You can spend some time here rummaging through preparations with local herbs and spices. We got some ready-to-use Italian sauces, and they were amazing. Rialto Bridge is touristy and crowded. However, the view of the canal is stunning from here. You should plan to spend a day and an evening here. This was our last day, not just in Venice but also in Italy. We just wanted to soak in the vibe of this romantic city, stroll along its canals and eat at a canal-side restaurant. And that's what we did before wrapping up our trip to this beautiful, vibrant country! Things to Know Before Visiting Venice Tips for Visiting the Doge's Palace Book your tickets online in advance, especially during the summer months, as queues can get very long. Plan to visit early in the morning for a relatively quieter experience. Keep at least 2 hours for the visit. The palace offers extensive interiors, museums, prison cells and artwork. Don't miss the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the historic prison. It's a good idea to opt for an audio guide because of the insight it can give into the rich history of the palace. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking through large halls, staircases, and multiple exhibition rooms. Carry your ID with you. In some cases, staff may ask international travellers you for their ID for entry. Tips for Visiting the Islands of Burano and Murano Start your day early as both islands become crowded by late morning. The easiest and budget-friendly way to go is by taking the Vaporetto (water bus) from Venice. Burano is known for its brightly coloured houses and peaceful canals, making it one of the most photogenic spots around Venice. There is a lace museum on the Piazza in Burano. If you have time, you can see the museum and learn about the history of lace in Burano. Murano is famous for its glass-making workshops, so visiting a glass-blowing demonstration can be a fun thing to do. Like all touristy places, restaurants and cafes on both islands are expensive, so check for reviews before you settle on one.

Spain is the kind of country that refuses to be experienced in a hurry. From the vibrant energy of Madrid and Barcelona to the beaches of the Mediterranean coast, Spain offers a perfect mix of culture, food, architecture, and unforgettable experiences. Why Visit Spain? If you are planning your first trip to Spain, whether you are visiting for a few days or planning a longer journey across different regions, Spain has something for every kind of traveller. Here are 10 incredible reasons why this country deserves a place on your bucket list. Spain is Warm, Vibrant and Full of Life Spain has a rustic Mediterranean charm that is different from other European countries. The typical Spanish vibe is hard to miss and even harder to describe! From bustling city squares and lively cafes or Tapas bars, to colourful festivals, historic lanes filled with amazing architecture like the iconic Sagrada Familia, and the busy beaches of Barcelona, there is always something to look forward to. What adds a zing to this warm country is its culture and music. Flamenco, football, and social gatherings are deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life. Spaniards are Friendly and Relaxed people On our first day in Madrid, which was a working day, I didn't see people hustling to work. Everyone seemed to be a bit laid back and walking merrily to work or wherever they were headed. I found this very different from most cosmopolitan cities, where morning rush hour can be maddening with people practically stomping on each other to get to work on time. They are friendly towards tourists too, and most can speak basic English. If they can't, they still attempt to help you. Our landlady in Madrid could not speak English, so she went to great lengths to ensure that we understood what she was trying to convey via a Translator App on her phone. She could not use the App properly. My son helped her with the App, and she, in turn, helped us with the instructions in English. Spain is Rich in History and Heritage Spain was one of the most powerful empires till the 18th century. The entire country has interesting architecture that is an amalgamation of many historical periods, combined with modern contemporary structures. Just travelling around the country, one can see a mix of Gothic-style, Renaissance and modern structures, all co-existing together beautifully. From ancient Roman ruins and grand cathedrals to Moorish palaces and medieval towns, one almost feels like having stepped into a museum, where history blends with modern life. Spain has Stunning Architecture Spain is home to some of Europe's most breathtaking architecture. From Antoni Gaudí's unique creations like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the majestic Alhambra in Granada. Spain has a whopping 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the third country in the world with so many heritage sites! So, while planning your Spain vacation, remember to look them up. Even in cities, alongside modern structures, there are a lot of colonial homes. It can be an interesting stay if you plan to live in a rented colonial home. All such houses have windows opening into a central courtyard. One can easily peep into the house on the opposite side. Although that should not be your reason to travel to Spain! Our house in Seville, with the window opening into the courtyard Spain has an Incredible Food Culture with Seriously Finger-Licking Food Food in Spain is much more than just a meal; it is a way of life. Dining in Spain entails long lunches, lively tapas bars, outdoor cafes, and an abundance of late-night dinners, even on weekdays. There are Tapas Bars everywhere; these bars serve small portions of food as a snack with a drink. The best thing about Tapas is that you get to taste a large variety of dishes owing to the small portion size. Spaniards 'Tapear', which means they do tapas bar-hopping and try various dishes. This is so integral to the culture of Spain. And Spaniards love their eating time; they are boisterous around food. And Spanish cuisine grows on you. It's made with simple ingredients with very bold flavours. Much like my native Indian cuisine. Spain offers Beautiful Beaches and Coastlines Whether you're looking for adventure, nightlife, or just a relaxing seaside escape, Spain has it all. Spectacular beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed coastal towns make Spain a coveted destination. Spain is a paradise for Football Fans Spain is home to the World's most legendary football clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona. We visited Spain with our two boys, and seeing their excitement about visiting these football clubs was unbelievable. There is an entire tourism ecosystem around Spanish football clubs that adds another unique layer to this destination. Spain's Streets are Full of Art and Performances Spain is lively, and that one can sense throughout the country, in its streets and public squares. From talented musicians to flamenco performers to human statues doing gravity-defying stunts, entertainment feels like a natural part of everyday life. A simple walk around the city can be as entertaining as sightseeing. Spain has some of Europe's Most Beautiful Cities Spain is filled with cities that offer such varied cultures and experiences. Madrid is grand, Barcelona is artistic, Seville is romantic, and Granada is historical and charming in its own way. Madrid has the famous Paseo del Prado Boulevard and El Retiro Park, both beautiful green spaces in the heart of a very modern metropolis. The entire area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 and is called The Landscape of Light. El Rastro, one of the world's oldest flea markets, is a shopper's paradise. It has wares ranging from clothes, leather goods, and books to memorabilia and so much more. Hordes of locals and tourists throng the market that is set up every Sunday and on public holidays. Barcelona has lots to offer tourists through architecture, scenic locales, the famous football club FCB, beaches and the Sagrada Familia. Seville, with its cobbled streets and the famous Real Alcazar, which is steeped in history and preserved in sync with some awe-inspiring modern structures like the Metropol Parasol, are stunning. And not to forget the riveting Plaza de España. There is a historical anecdote at every nook and corner of this picturesque city. Remember, the beautiful Alhambra Palace in Granada is just a 3-hour drive from Seville. So, if you have time, then this palace is not to miss. Cultural Traditions like Flamenco and Bullfighting are Unique to Spain Spain is famous for its dramatic and passionate cultural traditions that are deep-rooted in their culture. A flamenco performance is mesmerising, to say the least. Flamenco shows are held in many cities across Spain. Watching a Flamenco show in Seville was the highlight of our trip to Spain. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco And watching the bullfighting in Madrid was equally unforgettable. Although it is admired for its artistry and debated for its ethics, it remains an important part of Spain's cultural identity. If you have the guts to see this gory spectacle, then Madrid is the place for it! The most popular one is in Madrid, called Las Ventas. Apart from that, it is held in Tordesillas, Ronda and Seville. In some places, it has been banned or is in the process of being toned down to make it less gory. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal 6 Helpful Things to Know Before Visiting Spain If you want to start your vacation in the capital of Madrid, then the best time to visit this landlocked city is in spring and fall. Winters and summers can be extreme for outdoor activities. Spain is warmer than the rest of Europe, but even if you're going in summer, carry some very light woollens. It can get a bit windy and cold at night, especially in Madrid. We went to Spain in May, which is considered very pleasant, but we had to buy light sweaters the day we landed in Madrid. Beware of pickpockets, especially in tourist-heavy areas in Madrid and Barcelona. More so, when travelling in metros and buses. Pickpockets normally travel in gangs on crowded trains and try to surround you from all sides, creating some confusion before flicking your wallet. We had a rough encounter in Barcelona on the train. A woman passenger, standing right next to my husband, would deliberately push herself forward toward him every time the train jolted to start or stop. We were saved by the timely intervention of a local traveller who signalled to us to watch out for this woman. When she realised that we knew, she quickly got off the train; otherwise, my husband would have lost his wallet. Despite the menace of pickpockets, you should still carry some cash, especially if you're planning to go outside of main urban touristy areas or anywhere off the beaten track to make payments at small restaurants and kiosks. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Spain. But in Barcelona, we noticed a slightly unusual taste in the water because of the city's coastal location and mineral content. It did not make us ill, but we decided to rely on bottled water for the remaining days. Barcelona is expensive compared to other Spanish cities, so plan your vacation judiciously. 3 days would be ideal for exploring the city. You might have to add an extra day if you want to explore its many water sports in the calm Mediterranean waters. Be prepared for late meal times in restaurants compared to other European countries. Lunch is often around 2 PM, and dinner around 8 PM is considered normal. Use trains for intercity travel. Spain's high-speed train network is very efficient and reliable, making it the best way to travel between cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia and so on.

The Spanish capital is an exciting city from the word go! We had all of 72 hours at our disposal in Madrid, and there was a lot of ground to cover. We shortlisted 10 attractions that we wanted to see. We divided these attractions over our 3-day itinerary, Top 10 Things To Do in Madrid Day 1 in Madrid Royal Palace of Madrid We started with the Royal Palace of Madrid, or the 'Palacio Real' as it's called, the stunning white square building in Baroque-style architecture, set around a large courtyard. Baroque architecture is synonymous with opulent, theatrical-style buildings with intricate stonework. The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest in Europe by floor area, covering about 1,450,000 square feet. The palace is open on all weekdays; summer and winter timings are different. Entry to the palace is not free; your ticket will depend on whether you do a self-guided tour or a conducted tour. My Tip for You The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the largest palaces in the world with over 3000 rooms! If you decide to explore the interior of the palace, then be prepared to walk a lot and designate at least 2 to 3 hours to see the palace. We did not have the time to explore it from the inside. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace except in some designated areas. My word of advice is that if you've seen other famous palaces around the world, like the Palace of Versailles or royal palaces in Copenhagen or Sweden, or if you're planning to see the Real Alcazar in Seville, then you can miss this one. The ornate exteriors of the palace are enough to make your jaw drop! There is a Changing of the Guard daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays unless otherwise notified. The ceremony is always fun to watch as the crowds queue up well before time to grab a good viewing spot to watch the event. El Retiro Park It's a 30-minute walk from the Royal Palace to the park through the beautiful city of Madrid. The landscaped park in the centre of the city is massive. Entry to the park is free. It has around 15000 trees, statues of Spanish royalty, a lake, a glass building called the Crystal Palace and a Rose Garden. One can easily spend 2 to 3 hours in the park, rowing on the lake and seeing the beautiful city go by from the quiet of the park. Paseo del Prado Very close to El Retiro Park, just about a 6 to 7-minute walk, is the famous historical boulevard Paseo del Prado. The boulevard is considered to be an oasis in the midst of the city with very old trees. The entire area from Paseo del Prado to El Retiro Park and some adjoining areas has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site called the Landscape of Light. This houses some of Spain's most prominent institutions, and walking along this green boulevard is a delightful experience. The three famous museums of Madrid, Museo del Prado, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museo Nacional are also located here, and the area is called the Golden Triangle of Art in Madrid. It's a good idea to take a conducted tour of the historical gardens, which will give you some very interesting insights into the history of these gardens and why they were developed. Many tour options are available, including walking tours, tuk-tuk tours, and electric bike tours, among others. Please check their website for more details. My Tip for You If you wish to explore the museums, then the conducted tours take about 7 hours to cover all three museums. We were travelling with our 2 boys, visiting a museum was last on their wish list. But this certainly is doable in a 3-day itinerary since you have the entire second half of the day available. Day 2 in Madrid Plaza Mayor In the morning, we decided to spend some time at the Plaza Mayor. Our apartment building, aptly called 'Plaza Mayor Apartment', was situated right on the famous plaza. The statue of Philip III at Plaza Mayor My Tip for You The plaza is always bustling with crowds, and this is the best place to begin your walk across the beautiful Central Square of Madrid. There are hordes of tourists everywhere and some curiously dressed human statues and street performers. There are small eateries or Tapas, as they're called, all around where you can grab a bite, all the while soaking in the magic of Madrid. At the end of the square, there is a Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre for your assistance. Just a 5-minute walk away is the Puerta del Sol. Puerta del Sol Puerta del Sol is a public square in Madrid that has the famous Kilometre Zero, a small stone slab that marks the geographical centre of Madrid and even Spain. It also has the statue of the bear and the strawberry tree representing the Madrid coat of arms. It is the most famous point in Madrid for photo ops. You will find crowds thronging in this area at any time of the day. Plaza de Toros The second half of the day was assigned to go to Plaza de Toros, the bullfight arena in Madrid. The place was swarming with people; surprisingly, most of them looked like locals. I barely saw any tourists there. One can always spot tourists by the look of inquisitiveness around them. A lot can be said about this place and the event that takes place here, the bullfight. Not everyone has the stomach to watch the Bullfight with all its blood and gore! I have written about this in a separate blog. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal Day 3 in Madrid This was our last day in Madrid, and we wanted to explore this beautiful city on foot. Mercado San Miguel We decided to start our day with a trip to the food market very close to Plaza Mayor. We wanted to sample some delicacies at this world-renowned gourmet one-stop shop for Spanish cuisine. The impressive outer structure is a major tourist attraction; inside, there are fruit and vegetable stands alongside the local Tapas. We went early in the morning to beat the crowds; the market gets extremely crowded during the day and even more in the evening. Also, we wanted to first explore the stalls because we were not sure what to eat. After much deliberation, we tried seafood Paella, some exotic ham and cheese, fresh fruits, fried anchovies and the amazing red wine Sangria! Puerta del Alcala This beautiful monument is about a 30-minute walk from Mercado San Miguel. The monument is beautiful with its intricate carvings and impressive archways. We spent about 30 minutes around the monument before heading to the next attraction. Plaza de Cibeles Photo courtesy - "Plaza de Cibeles y Oficina de Correos, Madrid" by MrT HK is licensed under CC BY 2.0. From Puerta del Alcala, we walked another 4 minutes to Plaza de Cibeles, a plaza square with the absolutely riveting structure of Cybele Palace that now serves as the city hall. The area around the plaza is very crowded at all times. The pictures I took did not do justice to the beauty of this structure. So, I took this photo from a photo gallery. Don't miss the statue of Goddess Cybele on a chariot in front of the plaza. Monumento A Los Refugiados Just 3 to 4 minutes away from Plaza de Cibeles, this monument is dedicated to refugees and attempts to depict their plight. It's a strange-looking piece of art showing some men sitting on the top of a wall trying to run away or sneak in. Honestly, I couldn't make much of it, although it's made quite artistically. Parterre del Retiro This beautiful French-style garden lies within the Retiro Park on the west side. Parterre del Retiro, with its ornamentally landscaped greens, is absolutely delightful, and the serenity of the park amid a bustling city is worth the effort of walking to it. By the end of this walking tour, we had experienced Madrid and its people and seen its many stunning architectural marvels alongside vast verdant greens right in the heart of the city. A lot of day trips can be taken from Madrid. If you have an extra day, then the medieval city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 30 minutes away. It's famous for its monuments that display a deep influence of Jewish, Christian and Arab architecture. El Escorial, the historic residence of the King of Spain, is located in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, 45 km away from Madrid. This is a famous landmark and attracts a lot of crowds. Although I think fitting in these 2 towns would be impossible in a 3-day trip. It was the last evening of our trip to Madrid. We decided to spend the evening at Plaza Mayor. One can't have enough of the vibe of this charming Spanish District. Early the next morning, we boarded the train to Barcelona for our next Spanish adventure! There are many reasons to visit Spain. Find out more about Spain and things to do in Spain. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-simple-reasons-to-visit-spain-and-some-tips-if-you-do Interested in bullfighting? https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal Take a trip to Barcelona, Spain's most visited city. Read more about Barcelona https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-barcelona-spain-s-most-visited-city I have written about our thrilling experience at Port Aventura https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-thrilling-day-trip-to-portaventura-world-parks-from-barcelona-spain The absolutely not-to-miss city of Seville, Spain https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/there-s-something-special-about-seville-3-days-in-the-lively-cultural-hub-of-spain Watching a Flamenco show in Seville https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco

A vacation to Spain can throw open a plethora of unforgettable experiences - flamenco, Mediterranean food and vibrant football culture. But among all these attractions, one experience stood apart for us: Watching a traditional bullfight in Madrid. We had designated a half-day for this activity and made an online reservation well in advance. There are very few countries in the world that permit bullfighting, and Spain is one of the frontrunners in this sport. There was no way that we would miss such an outing, especially with our two grown-up boys around who were desperate to see some real gore-and-blood sport. You know how boys are! Entrance to the Bullfight Arena, Madrid - Plaza de Toros Watching the Bullfight in Madrid: Visiting Las Ventas The venue for bullfighting is the bullring in Madrid, Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, or ‘Las Ventas’ as it is popularly known. We reached a bit early and were quite surprised to see hordes of people already flocking near the gate of the arena, waiting to enter. There were hardly any tourists to be seen; one can always make out tourists from the local people by the lost look of anticipation on the former’s faces. Visitors looked like regulars to the arena since none of them was taking any pictures or buying souvenirs. Finally, the gates opened, and we were thrilled to get seats with a front view of the entrance where all the action was going to take place. The huge arena started to fill up with thousands of people pouring in. The bullring in Madrid has a seating capacity of 25,000 people, and in no time, we were scrambling for our seats as the arena filled up quickly. While our boys were eager to see the actual bullfight, I was keenly observing the thousands of people around us. We had a young Spaniard sitting on our right who looked like some school teacher to me, calm demeanour, and casually sipping on his drink. An elderly couple, sounding more like Brits on a tour of Spain, was also waiting for the show to begin. In the front row was a group of middle-aged men who appeared to have come straight out of some cowboy movie of the ’70s, with all of them donning hats, smoking cigars and wearing tight-waisted jackets. What Happens During a Bullfight The stage is now set for the action to unfold. The performance begins with an ‘entourage’ entering the arena, comprising horsemen, a Matador conspicuously attired and holding a magenta and gold cape, who appears to be the group leader. They go around the arena in a circle as if to acknowledge the guests or inspect the arena. The colourful 'Entourage' enters the arena, amidst cheers from the crowd! I get busy clicking pictures and making videos of the act. We are so excited to be a part of this traditional ritual of Spain. There is a sound of the bugle, and there we have a bull running into the ring. The matador is perhaps trying to gauge the ferocity of the bull; he waves the cape towards him and runs around to create some drama! The bull charging at the cape is swung by the matador The colourful, elaborate costumes, the energy and agility of the matador, combined with his prowess in handling the bull and his effortless yet careful demeanour on the ground, is enthralling. There is a lot of hooting and cheering all around. No wonder these matadors are so popular in this part of the world. They are nothing short of movie stars and enjoy a huge fan following. It appears as if there is a sudden rush of adrenaline in the arena. We also cheer on and wait in anticipation for what comes next. In a split second, the matador turns away, and the man on horseback or ‘Picador’ comes up from behind the bull and stabs a barbed stick viciously in the neck of the bull. The sudden spurt of blood from the fresh wound on the neck of the bull is unnerving and my camera falls from my hands into my lap. The bull weakened by the constant stabbing looks around haplessly for help that doesn't seem to come! There are 3 banderilleros on the ground, and each one tries to stab the bull with their barbed sticks on its shoulder. They are trying to agitate the bull and also weaken it. The sight is so ghastly that I’ve lost my interest already, just 15 minutes into the show. The man on horseback stabs again with his lance and injures the bull once again. Call it sheer ignorance, but nothing could’ve prepared me for such violence. In the meantime, the matador is trying to put on a display for the cheering crowds. I can’t deny that he was incredibly graceful with his movements and manoeuvres with the cape. He goes around the bull and tries to stab it with his banderilla. The movements are fake and are done only to create a theatrical effect, but the blood and the wounds on the bull’s back are real, I tell myself. I brace myself to see what’s more to come. The bull is getting angrier by the moment, and the crowd is going into a frenzy, shouting slogans like ‘mata…lo..mata lo’, meaning kill it in Spanish, as we later learnt. The cow-boy look-alikes sitting in our front row are in their full element. They are shouting and jeering. I look at the teacher-like guy sitting next to us, who looked so quiet earlier and now looks possessed by something. He’s shouting at the top of his voice. As if in response to these demands by the crowd, the matador suddenly turns and, with a sharp twist of the sword, pierces the bull’s heart and kills it. There is an uproar of approval in the arena all around. The scene is so gory that I cringe and look away. When I look up, I’m shocked to see people standing and cheering in the stands and waving white handkerchiefs in appreciation of the matador’s feat. Later, we learnt that the white handkerchief is waved to urge the presiding chief to award the matador with an ear of the dead bull as a souvenir. We all look at each other, and my sons, who were so eager to come for this spectacle, look equally perturbed. My younger son looks at me, imploring me to leave. As we nudge each other to get up, thinking that this is the end of that day’s event, we discover that there’s more to come. Another bull enters the arena, and the drill is repeated all over again. Then yet again and again and again. This drill is repeated five times over, five bulls are killed, and the ‘revelry’ in the ring is like nothing I have ever seen before. Is Bullfighting in Spain Cultural or Cruel? Bullfighting has existed in Spain for centuries and is considered by many locals as part of Spanish heritage. For them, it is a cultural performance that represents courage and artistry. I don't deny that the matadors exhibit grace and prowess in their art when they are just inches away from a powerful and dangerous animal. The dramatic music, the riot of colour, the pageantry, and the cheering crowds do make for a powerful, theatrical event, but the cruelty involved in its execution is gut-wrenching. Watching bullfighting in Madrid was one of the most emotionally conflicting experiences of our trip to Spain. Did we like the sport? Was it a sport at all? Five armed men on foot and horseback tried to overpower a bull not just by force but by deception. The spurt of blood oozing out of the necks of those innocent animals who can feel the pain but have no words to express it. If we believe that animals, too, have souls and that they can relate to love and emotions as well, then I’m sure the poor hapless bull could very well relate to the 25,000-odd people jeering at it and rejoicing in its death. Can anything be more inhuman than this? There are many reasons to visit Spain. Find out more about Spain and things to do in Spain. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-simple-reasons-to-visit-spain-and-some-tips-if-you-do Visiting Madrid, the Spanish Capital https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/mad-about-madrid-3-days-in-the-spanish-capital Take a trip to Barcelona, Spain's most visited city. Read more about Barcelona https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-barcelona-spain-s-most-visited-city I have written about our thrilling experience at Port Aventura https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-thrilling-day-trip-to-portaventura-world-parks-from-barcelona-spain The absolutely not-to-miss city of Seville, Spain https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/there-s-something-special-about-seville-3-days-in-the-lively-cultural-hub-of-spain Watching a Flamenco show in Seville https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco

A vacation to Spain would be incomplete without a trip to Seville, the capital of the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia. The city is a surprise package with its narrow, cobbled streets and buildings that are a curious mix of Jewish, Moorish and Christian architecture that weave a web of magic for anyone who sets eyes on them. The entire city can be covered on foot since most of the touristy attractions are within walking distance of each other. Besides, you wouldn't want to miss the hidden architectural gems in every nook and corner of the city. A horse-drawn carriage is also a fun way to go on a 40-minute round trip to the historic area. View of Metrosol Parasol from afar Top 10 Things to Do in Seville We had 3 days to see this city with many attractions. Ideally, one should spend more time in Seville, savouring the sights and soaking in its wonders, but for most of us, touristy places have to be covered in tightly packed itineraries. I have divided these attractions into day-by-day itineraries as we saw them, but you can rearrange the order depending on the amount of time you spend seeing each attraction. Most of these attractions are located in the Old Town within walking distance of each other. Day One in Seville The Royal Alcazar You can start your Seville outing with a visit to the Historic Centre of Seville in the Old Town, one of the largest historic districts in Europe. Spread over 4 km, it houses the three World-famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely, the Royal Alcazar of Seville, Seville Cathedral and La Giralda, and the Archivo General de Indias. The Royal Alcazar is an absolute must-see attraction. In Spain, an Alcazar is a name given to any palace or fortress that belongs to the time of the Moorish invasions. Keep aside at least 2 to 2.5 hours to see this UNESCO-listed site and a masterpiece of Moorish architecture*. The Palace, with its beautiful rooms, especially the Hall of the Kings, with its opulent interiors, offers an interesting insight into the indulgent lifestyle of the royalty. You should opt for a guided tour even if you're not a big history buff to make the whole experience of seeing the palace enjoyable. My Tip for You To visit the Real Alcazar, buy online tickets beforehand. There are massive queues lined up for entry into the palace. Try to arrive at 9:30 when the palace opens for tourists. Please check their website to check for Opening hours before planning a visit. Also, on some days, entry to the palace is free. https://www.alcazarsevilla.org/ Please do remember to start your Alcazar tour from the past, that is, from the times of the Moors, into the new gardens and not the other way around. Otherwise, the palace can be a bit confusing, especially for tourists like us who have little knowledge of Spanish history. In case you've bought combined tickets for the Alcazar and the Seville Cathedral, then remember there is a dress code for entering the cathedral. Exposed shoulders and legs are not allowed. Seville Cathedral and La Giralda After spending the first half of Day One in The Royal Alcazar, we headed to the Seville Cathedral. The cathedral is about half a kilometre away from the palace in the historic town. Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and it is home to a very impressive collection of artworks in Spain. You will need at least an hour or a little more to walk through the cathedral. Things to see in the cathedral are the Tomb of Christopher Columbus, the Royal Chapel and the Treasure Room. La Giralda, the 104-meter-high tower, is the minaret of the cathedral visible from a long way off. You can walk up to the tower which does not have a staircase but a slope to walk on. This was done to ride up the tower on horseback. I believe one gets nice views of the city all around, but we did not venture into the tower. We were exhausted from our visit to the palace in the first half of the day. My Tip for You I would say from experience that although visiting Real Alcazar and the Cathedral on the same day sounds like the sensible thing to do since they are close by, you should plan to do it on two separate days. The idea is to beat the crowds by starting on these two outings first thing in the morning. Plus, there is so much walking involved that it's not enjoyable anymore after a while if you do them together. Archivo General de Indias This building lies very close to the Cathedral. Honestly, it was just rows and columns of books, beautiful marble staircases and some stunning halls. It's a beautiful structure, so as a tourist, just taking pictures would suffice. You go inside only if you're seriously into Spanish history. Entry is free. I mean no offence, but this place was quite boring. We stepped inside and stepped right back out to make better utilisation of our limited time in Seville. Plaza de España This awe-inspiring semi-circular plaza was built in the year 1929 as part of the Ibero-American Exposition. The plaza was showcased as a centrepiece of this large-scale international fair to display the industrial and cultural achievements of Spain. These days, the plaza has been adapted to house various government agencies. Everything about Plaza de España spells grandeur. The structure brings together the Renaissance and Moorish Revival Architecture. The entire outer facade has ceramic tiles in bright colours that lend a magnetic appeal to this structure. The plaza is a delight to watch with its colourful, vibrant facade, colonnades and a huge fountain in the centre. There are footbridges and canals, a moat surrounding the main structure, and the entire building has 48 alcoves, each of which represents a Spanish province. Tourists can hire rowing boats and sail around in the moat. Entry to the plaza is free. The plaza is situated in Maria Luisa Park, spread over a sprawling 50,000 square feet. The park is as delightful as the plaza. There are small ponds, palm trees and beautifully landscaped gardens. My Tip for You In the late afternoon, we hired a horse carriage from the Old Town for a round trip around the old city, including a stop at the spectacular Plaza de España. If you want to walk, it takes less than 20 minutes on foot from the Seville Cathedral. Entry into the plaza is free. The ride was not too expensive, it was fun and informative. Our carriage driver, who also served as a tour guide, provided us with interesting insights into the plaza's history. Day Two in Seville Metropol Parasol Winding our way through the narrow streets of Seville, we suddenly came face to face with this mammoth structure right in front of us that claims to be the largest wooden structure in the world. It is located in the Plaza de la Encarnación in the Old Quarter of Seville. While reading about parasols, I discovered that they were first made in Egypt to provide sunshades to royals and nobles. In Seville, the parasol offers some great photo opportunities. It has a lookout deck or a viewpoint on the top that can be reached via an elevator to get beautiful views of the city. My Tip for You The Parasol is unique from whichever angle you see it. The views from the plaza level are amazing, and you can see the entire structure and its formation. If you want to save time, you can avoid going to the top. Although you do get nice views from the top, nothing spectacular. Torre del Oro About a 20-minute walk away from Metropol Parasol is Torre del Oro. The tower was constructed as a watchtower along a canal close to the river Guadalquivir. Now, there is a Naval Museum on the first floor of the tower. The exhibits are nicely displayed with interesting information. You can also climb up the 200-odd wooden steps to reach the top of the tower to get beautiful vistas of the city. My Tip for You If you've seen the city views from the top of the Parasol or La Giralda, then skip this one. I always reiterate the point that while travelling, one needs to conserve one's energy, especially in a place as hot as Seville. Iglesia del Salvador, the Saviour Church This beautiful Roman Catholic church with its baroque architecture is surely worth a visit. It's painted bright pink on the outside, so you cannot miss it. Remember, your ticket to the Seville Cathedral is valid in this church as well, so just keep it secure. You can use this ticket on any day, as we used it the next day. The interiors of the church are rich with exquisite craftsmanship and design. Tall windows with stained glass and a very colourful altar endow the church with a lot of grandeur. We spent about an hour inside before heading to our next stop. My Tip for You This small church is beautiful from the inside. Also, it will give you a chance to take a refreshing break from the summer sun. Plaza Nueva and Ayuntamiento, Seville City Hall Very close to Iglesia del Salvador is Ayuntamiento, Seville City Hall, which faces the Plaza Nueva. We had seen this square the previous day while walking around it, but today we decided to spend some time around it. The impressive Town Hall building has the faces of some important historical figures engraved on its walls if you look closely. A grand statue of King Fernando III is situated right in the centre of the plaza. There are artisan shops and tapas bars everywhere. My Tip for You This area comes alive in the evening. We decided to spend the remaining part of the day here since the next evening we were planning to watch a Flamenco show. So, this was, in a way, our last evening in Seville. And we were happy we did so. There were street singers, tourists and locals everywhere, eating and making merry. Day Three in Seville Triana Neighbourhood and the Guadalquivir River After 2 days of intense sightseeing of monuments, we wanted to get a feel of the city on our last day. We wandered around from the Old Town, walked through Santa Cruz and the Jewish Quarter with its narrow lanes and headed to the Puente de San Telmo bridge across the Guadalquivir River. It's about 30 minutes of leisurely walking. One can get beautiful views of the Triana Neighbourhood from here. We walked back, seeing the beautiful sights of the Old Town again. My Tip for You Puente de San Telmo is a functional bridge; nothing very romantic about it. But the views from the bridge are nice! Besides, it's a good way to see the entire city. Watching a Flamenco Show in Seville In the evening, we went to see the stupendous Flamenco Show at the 'Casa de la Memoria', one of the most popular venues for watching this show. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco Helpful Tips for Spending Three Days in Seville Start sightseeing early in the morning, especially during summer, since Seville gets extremely hot by afternoon. Book tickets online in advance for popular attractions. Wear comfortable walking shoes because Seville's historic centre is best explored on foot. Stay close to the Santa Cruz or city centre area for easy access to major attractions. Keep an evening free for watching the traditional flamenco show. Must savour local Andalusian dishes like tapas, gazpacho and Churros. Many small restaurants close in the afternoon during siesta hours. Carry a scarf for covering your shoulders while visiting churches and religious sites. Seville deserves a relaxed sightseeing plan to enjoy its streets and cafes. While in Seville, you can catch the bullfight at Plaza de Toros, the largest bullfighting arena in Spain. We skipped it since we had already seen this gory spectacle in Madrid. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal Our last day in Seville was also our last day in Spain. We missed watching the mystifying Alhambra Palace in Granada, although Granada is just about 3 hours by road from Seville. I guess that calls for another trip to this beautiful country! And there is more than one reason to go back to Spain. Read more about our Spain vacation here https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-simple-reasons-to-visit-spain-and-some-tips-if-you-do