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  • Rome: The Best Places to Watch the Sunset

    Rome: The Best Places to Watch the Sunset

    Rome, the Eternal City, is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets that cast a golden glow over its ancient architecture and vibrant streets. Whether you’re a romantic at heart, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful moment, Rome offers numerous vantage points to witness the sun setting in all its glory. Here are some of the best places to watch the sunset in Rome:

    1. Castel Sant’Angelo

    Originally commissioned by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum, Castel Sant’Angelo offers some of the most beautiful sunset views in Rome. The terrace provides expansive views of the Tiber River, the Vatican, and the city skyline. Watching the sunset from here is a magical experience, combining history and natural beauty. We recommend taking a drink and snack in the restaurant, but be careful, seagulls will not hesitate to steal your food. 🙂

    How to Get There: The castle is located near the Vatican, and it’s easily accessible by foot or public transport.

    Cost: Entry fee required for the castle, but the view is priceless.

    2. Villa Medici

    Perched atop the Pincian Hill, Villa Medici offers one of the most enchanting sunset views in Rome. This stunning Mannerist villa, home to the French Academy in Rome, provides a serene and less crowded alternative to the nearby Terrazza del Pincio. The villa’s beautiful gardens, adorned with ancient statues and fountains, create a perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening. As the sun sets, the panoramic view of Rome, accompanied by the occasional sound of classical music from the villa’s events or local guitarist, which gives unforgettable experience.

    How to Get There: The terrace is easily accessible from the Spanish Steps or Piazza del Popolo, it is on the way to the Terrazza del Pincio.

    Cost: Free

    3. Terrazza del Pincio

    Located in Villa Borghese, the Terrazza del Pincio offers one of the most iconic sunset views in Rome. Overlooking the Piazza del Popolo, this terrace provides a panoramic view of the city, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Tiber River. The nearby Villa Borghese gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll before heading to the terrace to catch the sunset.

    How to Get There: The terrace is easily accessible from the Spanish Steps or Piazza del Popolo.

    Cost: Free

    4. Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)

    Janiculum Hill, often considered the eighth hill of Rome, offers a spectacular view of the city, especially at sunset. From the terrace, you can see the Vatican, the historic center, and the Tiber River. The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, a magnificent baroque fountain, is also located here, adding to the charm of the location.

    How to Get There: From Trastevere, take the 710 bus towards Carini and get off at Gianicolense/Massi. From there, it’s a short walk to the terrace.

    Cost: Free

    5. Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden)

    Perched atop the Aventine Hill, the Giardino degli Aranci, or Orange Garden, is a serene spot offering stunning views of Rome. The garden is filled with bitter orange trees, statues, ancient ruins, and a beautiful fountain. As the sun sets, the garden provides a picturesque view of St. Peter’s Dome and the Tiber River, making it a popular spot for couples and photographers alike.

    How to Get There: Take Line B to Circo Massimo, and from there, it’s an 11-minute walk to the garden.

    Cost: Free

    5. Ponte Umberto I

    For a spectacular vista of the Vatican City across the Tiber River at sunset, head to Ponte Umberto I. This bridge offers a stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the iconic, statue-lined Ponte Sant’Angelo. The reflection of the sunset on the river adds to the beauty of this spot.

    How to Get There: The bridge is located near Piazza Navona, and it’s a short walk from there.

    Cost: Free

    Rome’s sunsets are a sight to behold, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical grandeur. Whether you choose a popular spot like the Terrazza del Pincio or a hidden gem like the Castel Sant’Angelo, you’re sure to be captivated by the city’s twilight charm. So grab a bottle of wine, find your perfect spot, and enjoy the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the Eternal City.

    P.S. Our favourite was Castel Sant’Angelo, where we enjoyed amazing sunset, drinks, food and seagulls.

  • 24 hours Speed Trip through Graz

    24 hours Speed Trip through Graz

    Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is a hidden gem that offers a delightful mix of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Whether you’re arriving by train, car, or bus, this itinerary will help you make the most of your 24 hours in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Arriving in Graz

    By Train: If you arrive by train, consider purchasing a 24-hour ticket via the GrazMobil app or from vending machines inside the tram. For a budget-friendly option, walk along Annenstraße, a revitalized shopping street known for its international grocery shops and vibrant LGBT+ community. Once you reach the Kunsthaus, you can explore the inner city for free (Old Town Bim Info) .

    By Car: The best parking option is around Stadtpark. For weekday visits, use a Park and Ride service, which typically costs around €11 and includes 24-hour parking and a public transport ticket.

    By Bus: Frequent buses run from Vienna Airport, Salzburg, and Linz to Graz. Check the Flixbus website for schedules and tickets.

    Morning: Schlossberg and Graz Burg

    Schlossberg: Start your day with a visit to Schlossberg, a hill in the center of Graz offering stunning panoramic views. You can reach the top via the Schlossbergbahn funicular, the Schlossberglift, or by walking up the stairs. Key attractions include the Uhrturm (Clock Tower) and the Glockenturm (Bell Tower). Before heading up, stop by Frankowitsch to grab some delicious open-faced sandwiches and pastries, along with a bottle of chilled Prosecco (€40 for two people).Graz Burg: After enjoying the views from Schlossberg, head to the Graz Burg, located near the Graz Cathedral. This historical site features a unique double spiral staircase and offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.

    Midday: Traditional Styrian Lunch

    Lunch: Take a break and enjoy a traditional Austrian lunch at a typical Styrian Würstelbude (sausage stand). This will give you a taste of local flavors in a casual setting.

    Afternoon: Kunsthaus Graz and Augartenpark

    Kunsthaus Graz: Visit the Kunsthaus Graz, an architectural marvel known as the “Friendly Alien.” This contemporary art museum features exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The building itself is a sight to behold with its unique blob architecture and BIX media façade.Augartenpark: Take a leisurely stroll through Augartenpark, a beautiful green space along the River Mur. It’s a perfect place to unwind, enjoy nature, and perhaps have a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.

    Evening: Old Town Graz and Dinner

    Old Town Graz: Explore the Old Town of Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the Hauptplatz (Main Square), admire the historical buildings, and visit the Graz Museum to learn more about the city’s history.Dinner: For dinner, choose from one of the many charming restaurants in the Old Town. Enjoy local Styrian cuisine and perhaps a glass of regional wine. For a more romantic setting, reserve a front-view table at the Schlossberg Restaurant.

    Night: Schlossberg at Night

    Schlossberg at Night: Return to the Schlossberg for a nighttime view of the city. The illuminated Uhrturm and the city lights create a magical atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance at the Kasemattenbühne, an open-air concert venue on the Schlossberg.

    End of Day: Nightcap and Stroll

    Nightcap: Conclude your day with a nightcap at one of the bars in the Old Town or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the historic streets.This itinerary ensures you experience the best of Graz, from its historical landmarks to its modern attractions, all while savoring the local cuisine and culture. Enjoy your visit to this charming Austrian city!

  • Exploring Ljubljana and Bled: A Two-Day Adventure

    Exploring Ljubljana and Bled: A Two-Day Adventure

    Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a heaven for hedonist. With its medieval castle, art nouveau architecture, and friendly locals, Ljubljana feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

    Day 1: A Day Trip to Lake Bled

    Morning: Journey to Bled

    Start your day early with a scenic trip to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most iconic destinations. You have several options for getting there:

    • By Train: The train from Ljubljana to Lesce Bled takes about 55 minutes and costs around €6.60. The train ride offers beautiful views of the Slovenian countryside, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
    • By Car: If you prefer driving, the trip takes approximately 30 minutes. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
    • By Bus: Buses run frequently from Ljubljana to Bled, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Tickets cost between €6.30 on weekdays and €2.10 on weekends.

    Mid-Morning: Exploring Lake Bled

    Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk around the lake, which takes about an hour and a half. The path is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Alps. Don’t miss the chance to visit Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake. The castle offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Slovenia’s history.

    Coffee and Cream Cake

    No visit to Bled is complete without trying the famous Bled cream cake (kremšnita). Head to one of the lakeside cafes, such as the Park Café, to enjoy this delicious treat with a cup of coffee (or wine) while soaking in the serene views of the lake.

    Afternoon: Return to Ljubljana

    After spending at least three hours in Bled, head back to Ljubljana. If you took the train or bus, you can relax and enjoy the scenic ride back. If you drove, you might want to take a slightly different route to explore more of the Slovenian countryside.

    Late Afternoon: Strolling Through Ljubljana

    Back in Ljubljana, take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River. The pedestrian-only streets along the river are lined with charming cafes and shops. Stop by one of the riverside cafes for a refreshing Aperol Spritz and watch the world go by.

    Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

    For dinner, taste local Slovenian cuisine and after dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center. The area around Prešeren Square is particularly lively, with plenty of bars and cafes to choose from.

    Day 2: Discovering Ljubljana

    Morning: Exploring the Old Town

    Start your day with a visit to Ljubljana Castle. You can take the funicular from the city center, which is included in the Ljubljana Card if you have one. The castle offers stunning views of the city and has several interesting exhibits about the history of Ljubljana.

    Mid-Morning: Museums and Markets

    After the castle, head to the Central Market near the Dragon Bridge. The market is a great place to sample local produce and buy souvenirs. If you’re interested in museums, the National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art are both excellent choices and are located nearby.

    Lunch time

    For lunch, you can grab delicious food at the Central Market, by Ljubljana river or you can stay in the castle area and visit Restavracija Strelec.

    Afternoon: Metelkova and Coffee at Vigo

    Spend the afternoon exploring Metelkova, an autonomous social and cultural center in Ljubljana. This vibrant area, once a military barracks, is now a hub for alternative culture, street art, and nightlife. Wander through the eclectic mix of graffiti-covered buildings, quirky sculptures, and art installations. Metelkova truly comes alive at night, but even during the day, it’s a fascinating place to explore.

    After soaking in the artistic vibes of Metelkova, head to Vigo Ice Cream for a sweet treat. Located in the heart of Ljubljana, Vigo is renowned for its delicious ice cream and coffee. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some people-watching before continuing your exploration of the city.

    Evening: Dinner and Drinks

    For your final evening in Ljubljana, consider dining in the city centre, where you can enjoy street music and local food. After dinner, head to the rooftop bar at Nebotičnik (the Skyscraper) for a cocktail and a stunning view of the city at night.

    Best Time to Visit

    The best time to visit Ljubljana is in the spring, from April to May, when the city is lush and green, and the weather is pleasant. This period also sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for a more relaxed and authentic travel experience.

    In Ljubljana, every moment is an opportunity for indulgence, every experience a feast for the senses. So come, fellow hedonists, and let’s lose ourselves in the enchanting world of Slovenia’s capital city. Until next time, živijo (goodbye) and srečno pot (safe travels)!