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Hidden Gems

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Look, we'll lay it on the line here  – Vienna has a reputation for being a bit… well… uptight.

As European destinations go, it's not quite up there with the likes of Berlin, Madrid or Prague, and yet as cities go, it is easily one of the most captivating and breathtaking on the continent.

Chock-full of stunning parks, awe-inspiring architecture and some of the most decadent dining experiences you can imagine, Vienna is a cultural dream.

Austria's capital city straddles the traditional and the modern with an ease not seen in every major city, and can ultimately provide any tourist with both a glimpse into the past and a glance into the future.

And here are 5 hidden gems if the capital city is next on your to-do list.

Beach in the City

It's not often you get to experience beach life in a landlocked country, but Austria manages it.

Along the Danube Canal, tourists visiting Vienna can get their chill on in a deckchair on the sandy beaches which run along the city's canal.

Most people just happen upon the area, but those in the know are a little more savvy.

Kolar

If flatbreads float your boat, you have got to check out Kolar while exploring the city.

Famed for their delicious (and inexpensive) fladenbrote, excellent service, and chill atmosphere, this restaurant is an absolute must.

(Oh, and be sure to check out their Nutella version!)

Kleeblattgasse 5, 1010 Wien, Austria

Downstairs Cocktail Bar

Located just off Mariahilferstrasse – one of the city's main shopping thoroughfares – Downstairs is a cosy bar which sells some of the best cocktails in the city.

Unlike other cocktail bars where a smart dress code is a given, Downstairs is super chill, and the perfect place to grab a few cocktails and kick back, or get competitive over a few games of pool.

And with some cocktails coming in at just €4.70, it's definitely one to keep in mind.

Theobaldgasse 15, 1060 Vienna, Austria

Sigmund Freud Museum

Unlike other museums in the capital, a trip through the Freud's home and place of work makes for a particular intimate experience.

Considered the father of psychoanalysis, the small apartment allows the visitor more than a passing peek into the environment where the famous physician lived and worked.

From personal effects to official plaques, this museum combines the various aspects of Freud's life, and will definitely make an impact.

 

Прикоснуться к источнику #psychologyst #freud #sigmundfreudmuseum

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Berggasse 19, Vienna 1090, Austria

Vienna State Opera

OK, the opera is hardly a hidden gem of Vienna, but the uber-reasonable price at which you can get tickets for some of the world's best-known operas definitely is!

While many tourists might assume they'd have to pay an arm and a leg for a night at the Vienna State Opera in the heart of the city, you can actually get tickets for some shows for as little as… wait for it… €10.

Definitely something to look into when tapping into the cultural side of things!

 

#viennaopera vs #bolshoitheatre впечатляющая #травиата

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Opernring 2, 1010 Wien, Austria

 

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Amsterdam is famous for a few tourist essentials – visiting a coffee shop, strolling though the red light district and cycling through the city. 

However, there are few other experiences that are not to be missed in the architecturally stunning and liberating city:

5. Soak up some culture at the Moco Museum

There are plenty of immersive cultural experiences to be had in the Dam, from visiting Anne Frank's annex to swanning around the Van Gogh museum being impressed by the post-impressionism. 

The Moco Museum is another of Amsterdam's fine art houses, focusing on modern art rather than classic. 

Currently, the museum is hosting a vast range of work by Banksy, a crowd pleaser for a group visiting the city comprised of art enthusiasts and novices. 

4. Swing from the rooftops at the A'Dam Lookout 

Ideal for the thrill seekers, Amsterdam is home to Europe's highest swing. 

The swing is located on the observation deck of the A'dam Lookout tower, with an unbeatable panoramic view of the city. 

Make sure you tie your shoelaces tight and zip up your pockets, the swing really does propel you over the edge of the rooftop. 

 

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3. G's Brunch Boat for cocktails and eggs benny

Can't stop, won't stop when it comes to brunch? Never fear. 

A trip abroad doesn't have to interfere with your brunch schedule. 

G's Brunch Boat is an epic way to see the canals of Amsterdam, while enjoying a hearty brunch, a few cocktails, and some seriously eclectic decor (think Drake-emblazoned menus and Roy Lichtenstein table tops)

 

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2.  Learn some Red Light Secrets at The Museum of Prostitution  

Red Light Secrets offers a unique experience for tourists – feeling what it's like to be a prostitute in the red light district. 

Perch yourself on a stool in from of the museums red bulb-lined window and experience what it's like to be viewed by the public while discovering the history of prostitution throughout the world and in Amsterdam. 

While it is a tourist attraction, if you go early in the day you should beat the queue.

If you're into the macabre, the museum will definitely be of interest. 

As well as sharing funny, intimate stories of the district's ladies of the night, the museum also remembers the women who are murdered during their working hours. 

It also describes stories of trafficking and abuse from pimps – not for the faint of heart. 

 

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1. Get your drinks and some history in on a Damrak Gin Cruise

We had to sneak gin in somewhere on this list!

The Friendship Canal Cruise offers a one-hour tour of the Amsterdam canals, as well as an epic history lesson using local knowledge, historic facts, and urban legends. 

Damrak is a distinctive gin from Amsterdam, served with fresh zesty oranges to sip on while you cruise. 

 

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Budapest is undoubtedly one of Europe's most beautiful cities, so it's easy to see why so many of us flock there for our weekend breaks and relaxing getaways.

Spend the afternoon unwinding in one of the city's famous thermal spas before strolling across the Danube and taking in some of the most beautiful architecture the continent has to offer. 

To help make the most of your trip, we've rounded up the top six hidden gems you need to check our during your next trip to the Hungarian capital. 

1. Napfényes Restaurant and Pastry Shop

One of the best vegan restaurants in the Hungarian capital, Napfényes prides itself on on preparing its menu using only vegetable ingredients. 

The welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to grab a bite after a morning of sight-seeing. 

Just LOOK at that pizza! 

2. Flipper Muzeum

If you fancy yourself a bit of a Pinball Wizard, this one's for you. 

Located in a basement under a downtown residential building in Budapest lies a museum dedicated solely to the classic arcade game. 

As well as entrance to the museum, a ticket allows visitors to play the machines as much as they'd like for an entire day. 

3. The Zugliget Chairlift

Let's face it, exploring a city on foot can be a pretty exhausting endeavour, so why not take the weight off your feet and explore the Buda Hills by a fun alternative mode of transport? 

The Zugliget Chairlift will transport you up the side of János Hill in about 15 mins, allowing you to soak in some of the best views the city has to offer. 

 

#libegő #zugliget #zugligetchairlift #budapestchairlift #budapest #hungary

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4. Gelarto Rosa

An absolute must-visit for anyone lovers of unique flavours and Insta-worthy desserts.

Located in the heart of the city, Gelarto Rosa is famous for it's delectable ice-cream, lovingly arranged in the shape of a rose. 

Customers can choose up to three flavours from the parlours extensive menu, including some more unusual option such as lavender white chocolate, basil lemongrass and white fruit whiskey. 

5. Gellért Baths

Often dubbed the 'City of Spas', Budapest has more thermal water springs than any other capital in the world.

It's health and wellness properties are the reason thousands of tourists travel there every year, but with 15 public baths dotted across the city, it can be hard to decide upon the best place to dip your feet. 

The stunning Gellért Bath offer high quality relaxation in the surrounding of an elegant Art Nouveau building. 

Famous for its architecture, its landscape, and also for its spa treatments, and pampering massage therapies, it's the ideal location for anyone looking to de-stress without having to feel crowded by other tourists. 

6. Kuplung

Popular among locals and tourists alike, Kuplung is just of of the ruin bars that can be found across the capital. 

Decorated with funky lighting, upcycled material and artistic murals, Kuplung is the perfect spot for anyone looking for chiled vibes and cheap drinks. 

 

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Prague is undoubtedly one of Europe's most beautiful cities, so it's easy to see why so many of us flock there for our weekend breaks. 

Spend the afternoon walking through the streets of the old town before dancing the night away in some of Europe's most alternative clubs and bars.

We've rounded up the top five hidden gems that'll have you covered from day to night during your next trip to the Czech capital. 

1. Kavárna Místo cafe 

Located close to Prague castle, this minimalist cafe is the perfect spot to refuel during a day of sight seeing.

The quirky, contemporary menu offers some familiar options along with more daring dishes for the adventurous foodie in you.

With some of the best coffee the city has to offer, and a huge range of vegetarian and vegan options, Kavárna Místo is sure to be a crowd pleaser, no matter how picky your travel buddies may be. 

2. Naplavka Farmers Market

If you're more of a street food kind of gal, head down to the Naplavka Farmers Market.

Located close to the New Town, just beside the river, this fresh food market is a favourite with locals and tourists alike.

Soak up the atmosphere, feed the swans and enjoy a Czech beer and wine – if you figure out a more perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon, let us know 

3. Vzorkovna underground bar 

Widely referred to as Prague's most alternative pub, this unique underground bar provides a space for the artistically talented to showcase their abilities.

Everyone is welcome and crowds can vary from night to night but the general consensus of anyone who has visited is 'be ready for anything!'

Oh, there's a lovely Irish wolfhound that calls this place home. 

 

Dog bar

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4. Divoká Šárka Nature Reserve

Fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle?

Prague may not be famous for it's walking trails, but that be about to change.

Belive it or not, this gorgeous park is located out the outskirts of Prague – just a 30 minute walk from Wenceslas Square. 

In summer, you can even take a dip in the park's natural swimming pool called “Dzban” (The Jug).

 

#prague #nature #wood #trip #divokasarka

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5. The Meetfactory

Discover the best of Prague's alternative art scene at The Meetfactory, a refurbished slaughterhouse that has been repurposed to house studios for young creatives.

It's also home one of Europe's coolest concert venue and theatres.

The whole project was created under the leadership of the Czech artist David Cerny.

 

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