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Awe-Inspiring Adventures: Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia, Turkey (2023)

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Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia

Awe-Inspiring Adventures: Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia, Turkey (2023) Everything one needs to know! Share now The hot air balloon ride of Cappadocia is one of the most thrilling balloon flights. It is a tourist attraction that takes visitors to the finest areas of Cappadocia. It gives the opportunity to see beautiful landscapes not visible at ground level, but only at a high altitude. With over 100 – 120 balloons taking off daily at a time, in the morning is a sight to behold. It is a mesmerizing feel and a chance to capture amazing postcard photographs.That’s why we’re going to tell you everything about the Cappadocia hot air balloon trip .. so that you can make the most of your visit here and enjoy every moment like none other! Table of Contents One Pro Tip: If you are staying for 2/3 days in Cappadocia, then kindly book the air balloon ride on the 1st day itself. Due to unpredictable weather and wind conditions flights might get canceled. Hence many companies offer flight options in exchange for canceled flights in the upcoming 2 days according to the availability or a refund. After anticipating the ride soo long, you don’t want to be disappointed. Hence, by booking the ride on the 1st day you still stand a chance to enjoy and get thrilled by this experience.  What types of rides are available? There are 3 types of rides available-Standard Flights- The most common and popular one is the ride with 16-30 passengers in one hot air balloonComfort Flights- The rides which are more comfortable with fewer people from 8-12 passengersPrivate Flights: The most expensive option is a private ride. It will be only the pilot and your group. It can be also booked for a couple for any special occasion. These are the highest-priced option.  You may also like to check out this blog on Best Shopping Markets In Istanbul  How do I choose the right tour Company for my Hot Air Balloon Ride? Choosing the right company is the most important thing. There are many popular and trusted companies like Butterfly Balloons, Cappadocia Voyager Balloons, and Royal Balloons. These companies are the most trusted ones and have highly experienced pilots. Their prices tend to be on the higher side due to skilled pilots and the experience they offer over the years. In general, pricing will differ depending on the company you choose. You will need to do some research and check out reviews if you are choosing any company.  What is the price of Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia? If you have heard that the hot air balloon Cappadocia is an expensive affair, then you are right. It will be heavy on your pocket but every minute of it will be worth your penny. A hot air balloon ride can start from around 180 Euros to 300 Euros per person depending on which type of ride you choose & which season you are flying. Usually, the hot air balloon price will be higher for less no of passengers in one balloon. For Example: If you choose to fly in a ride with 8 passengers, it will be more costly than flying in a ride with 16 passengers.  What all will be included in the price we pay? The price you pay usually includes the following- Pick Up and Drop Off from your Hotel Breakfast Champagne/ Fruit juice party after landingFlight Certificate and a Medal Insurance to cover your entire ride What is the usual itinerary of the tour? A night prior to your tour you will receive the exact pickup time from the company you chose to fly.The tour will start with an early morning pick-up from your hotel. You will pick up your fellow passengers on the way and head to the main office of your company. There you can have a buffet breakfast, tea/coffee, and the availability of washrooms. You will be given a waiver to sign named “Release of Liability waiver”. Until and unless you sign you wont be able to take the flight Once you are done with your breakfast, your pilot will then be allocated to you.  Once clearance is obtained from the Turkish Civil Aviation Authority then you can head to your car with your pilot’s name and with the people who will be in your basket. Clearance is required for the safety of passengers & if the weather is suitable for the flight. When you reach the takeoff point, you will see your hot air balloon being prepared and filled with gas for takeoff.  When you hop on the basket, the captain and his colleagues will provide safety briefing & landing instructions for the flight. You are now ready to fly. The flight will last for one hour roughly. When you land, you will have a small party with fruits, a champagne party, and non-alcoholic drinks like fruit juices. They will then hand over your certificates and medal individually. You will then be transported to your hotel back.  What are the timings of the Hot Air Balloon Ride? How long does it last? The flight timings are just before sunrise because wind conditions are best & suitable for flying during this time. In summer your pickup time would be around 4.30 – 5 am in the early morning and in winter the pick-up time will be around 5.30 am. Generally, the actual ride lasts for an hour long. So if you leave for a tour around 5.30 am you will return to the hotel around 8.15 -8.30 am depending on the transfer times and the number of people in your basket. The timings of takeoff and pickup vary according to the sunrise timings and daily clearance from Turkish Aviation Authority. How high do the flights fly? The hot air balloon Cappadocia flies up to three thousand feet high from the ground. A spectacular view of rock and mountain formations will be visible from above with a fresh & brisk wave of air.  How many people can be seated

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6 Best Shopping places in Istanbul – Beautiful Bazaars and Market in Istanbul ​

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Best Places To Shop In Istanbul

6 Best Shopping places in Istanbul – Beautiful Bazaars and Market in Istanbul Istanbul has some amazing markets/bazaars with an attractive variety of souvenirs and local goods. These colorful markets are full shops selling accessories, bags, electronics, copy of designer goods etc. All the bazaars need bargaining skills and patience to find a shop selling the same product at a good price. Lets check out the best places for shopping in Istanbul  Table of Contents Grand Bazaar – Kapali Carsi One of the best and most popular markets of Istanbul is the Kapali Carsi, known as Grand Bazaar. If you are visiting Istanbul you cannot miss this place. It is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in Turkey. It has a great variety of shops and small stalls selling pretty souvenirs, carpets, handicrafts, Turkish sweets, counterfeit branded bags and clothes, ceramics, Nazar- evil eye ornaments, accessories and silver items.  This bazaar is divided in many small lanes and it is very easy to loose track from where you entered and where you are heading.It has around 22 exits and entry and 60 lanes of shops, not less than any maze.  The main entrance is the Beyazit Gate just opposite Beyazit Tram Station. This bazaar is divided in sections like an area selling antiques which is the center of the market, area selling Gold jewelry etc.   Dont rush to buy the first thing you see as you may find it at cheaper price ahead. Make sure to bring out your bargaining skills. A map of Grand Bazaar will help you  Location: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 10am to 7 pmClosed on Sundays  Know More You may also like to check out this blog on Hot Air Balloon Rides Cappadocia Turkey Spice Bazaar- Misir Carsisi Spice Bazaar/ Misir Carsisi or popularly known as Egyptian Bazaar is similar to Grand Bazaar. As its name suggests, it has number of shops mainly selling all kind of spices and dried fruits. As you enter the market a pleasant fragrance of all fresh spices hits you tempting you to buy few.  Some popular items are rose water, saffron, cinnamon sticks, sheesha, perfumes and off-course famous Turkish tea.They vacuum seal your bags so you easily pack and carry your spices. Along with spices, a lot of shops sell Turkish Delights, cosmetics like famous products from rose water etc. You can definitely have a stroll around and click nice pictures even though you might not be interested in buying spices.  Location: Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sok. No:92, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8 am to 7 pm,  Saturday 8 am 7.30 pm, Sunday 9.30 am to 7 pm MohamutPasha Bazaar This bazaar is the one which connects the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar. If you walk straight through Spice Bazaar you will enter MohamutPasha Bazaar. Lanes full of shops and items selling varied goods. It is usually very crowded and full of tourists as well as local people. You can spot several shops selling accessories like bags, necklaces, pyjamas, bracelets, souvenirs, unique home decoration items etc. Also, there is a section which has shops mainly selling great cushion covers, Turkish towels, electronics and many phone accessories. This market has many lanes which criss-cross each other and lead to Grand Bazaar. Also, not to forget the enormous variety of counterfeit products of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton Bags, Gucci, Channel, etc. I thoroughly recommend you to visit this bazaar and not to miss it.  You can walk to Mahmut pasha bazar it starts right after the Grand bazar located near beyazit tram station, or you can take the tram T1 from beyazit tram station to Eminonu and enter Mahmutpasha bazaar through spice bazar Location: Tahtakale, Sabuncu Hanı Sk. No:52, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 8.30 am to 10 pm Arasta Bazaar – Arasta carsisi Araasta Bazaar is also a similar version but a bit pricey. Located in the district of  SultanAhmet, just 2 minutes walking from the famous mosque. Unlike other markets this one is less crowded and just one small alley of shops. Some shops definitely have some unique items so you can head here while exploring the SultanAhmet area. Location: Arasta Bazaar, Sultan Ahmet, Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cd. No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Timings:Open from 9 am to 7 pm Ortakoy Bazaar The famous Ortakoy/Mecidiye Mosque has a very picturesque background. Nearby this mosque and the famous Ortakoy Square there are several small shops selling  souvenirs, artistic items, jewelry etc. On Sundays and Thursdays there is also street bazaars with local people selling handmade items, women’s clothing and textiles. A nice bustling place to spend some time shopping and having some coffee and snacks while enjoying the view. Location: Mecidiye, Mecidiye Köprüsü Sk. No:15, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Timings: Sunday and Thursday market 9am to 12 am  Alleys/lanes of Istiklal Street Istiklal street is the most famous shopping place in Istanbul. But very few know there are small lanes/alleys and arcades perpendicular to this street. The small arcades are called Pasaji. They sell some local items and souvenirs at cheap rate. If you want to gift someone you can have a stroll around these arcades. Though not huge, you can visit them if you are passing by or shopping at Istiklal Street.  Location: Istiklal Street near Taksim Square  Share now

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Enigma Suites, Santorini, Greece

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Enigma Suites Hotel in Santorini, Greece It is one of the chic boutique hotels in Santorini over the volcano with panoramic views from each suite . This hotel is located in the heart of Fira with splendid views of Caldera and the Aegean Sea. Do you want to get lost in a cosy ambiance with fairy tale vibes ? Then you must definitely check out this blog to know more about this hotel. Share now Great rooms Designed elegantly and inspired by the island’s white theme, you wont be disappointed with the splendid suites here. They have a magical cove architecture with an earthen touch. Renovated in 2020, the rooms have a nice touch of luxury yet simplicity as seen in the pictures. The Suites are divided in upper and lower floor with a total of 8. Divided in categories of Studio, Junior Suite, Senior Suite, Premier Jacuzzi Suite, Exclusive Jacuzzi Suite and Signature Jacuzzi Suite. All of them include air conditioning and heating facilities. Hospitality and facilities The staff here are exceptional, warm and welcoming making your stay extremely comfortable. Expect a fine delicious breakfast served every morning in your balcony or in-house cafeteria with a beautiful backdrop. The staff here are friendly and assist you with your bookings for local/airport transfers, sunset cruise, sailing boat excursions etc. The service is top notch with daily maid and super clean rooms. Beach Towels are provided daily free of charge. The hotel has a rooftop bar and an open air cafeteria where you can spend hours gazing the pleasing view. Wi-fi is complementary and some other services with extra charge include laundry and pressing, massage, car/motorbike rental, etc. Not to forget but all basic facilities like iron/ironing board, hair dryer and electric kettle, Nespresso machines and Bluetooth speakers are provided for each suite. Parking is also just 2 blocks away (100m) from the hotel. Perfect Location The serene location of Enigma Suites is just perfect in the heart of Fira on the cliff side of western Santorini. Exploring other local places on island and famous Oia is very convenient from here. This hotel is nearby the cute shops and colorful lanes of Fira which are full of scenic cafes and restaurants. The location is definitely one of the best. Beach and Airports are roughly 9km and 6 km respectively. You can feel and enjoy the island’s flavor with stone paved lanes and cycladic style architecture. Spectacular views How can one forget the mesmerizing sunsets from the Suites? It is unique and doesnt fail to show stunning views from each corner may that be reception or your own suite. Nice place for tranquil night walks and perfect ambiance to enjoy the views of Caldera, volcanic mountains and the Aegean sea with many ships docked overnight. What more does one need? Best Season To VISIT The best season to visit Santorini would be from May to October with hot dry summers and Mediterranean climate. Hottest month is August with temperatures ranging from 28-30 degrees. If you want some good deals and avoid crowds but still want it to be sunny you can choose the season from March to May which is somewhat off peak season. Thinking of staying at this hotel? I had a lovely stay and experience with this hotel and staff and hence recommend you guys!! I still miss my time there and hope to return back soon!! For Bookings & Pricing

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9 Impressive Things To Do In Krakow Which You Cannot Skip!

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Best Places To Visit In Krakow Poland

Krakow is like a fairy tale city. Beautiful castles, churches, and pretty souvenir shops. Not just the common tourist spots but Krakow also has many unique places to visit like the Salt Mine, Oscar Schindler’s Museum & Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp of Nazis. It is a place with a very heartbreaking history and an old-town vibe. It has been gaining high popularity among tourists. So let us check out the top things to do visit in Krakow Poland.  Table of Contents The Cloth Hall/Market The cloth market ranks among the top things to do in Krakow. The cloth market is located in the main square and center of Krakow. It is among the oldest trading halls. It is lined now with small souvenir shops on both sides which are open from 10 am to 8 pm. This architectural marvel was destroyed in a fire and was again constructed in the 16th century. The most popular among tourists and hence among the top places to visit in Krakow Poland. St Mary’s Basilica- Another place that ranks among the top places to visit in Krakow is St Mary’s Basilica. Built at the beginning of the 14th century, this church has the most stunning Gothic pieces with a blue intricate ceiling. One gets some splendid views of the city from the tower, but you need to book it in advance from the ticket office. Also, you need to climb 239 steps to reach the top and only 10 people are permitted every 30 minutes.  Another popular aspect of the church is the trumpet call which is played every hour in memory of the trumpeter who used to sound the alarm for the Mongol attack.Opening Timings- 9:10 – 11:30 am and 1:10 – 5:30 pmTickets- Regular price is 10 PZ and tower + entrance is 15 PZ for adults, extra charge for clicking photographs inside Wawel Royal Castle And Cathedral It is a majestic castle residency on top of the hill. It has many exhibition halls and royal state rooms with valuable exhibits like tapestries, furniture and paintings. It features Wawel Cathedral, crown treasury and armory, castle museum, impressive garden, underground cave – a Wawel dragon den. The prices for each attraction are different and one can choose which ones to visit. Usually, huge lines to get tickets and advice to book online and even opt for audio guide. Opening Timings- The Wawel hill and the courtyard are open to visitors from 6am -5.30 pm, visitrs center is open daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm – Toilets and Cafe onlyTickets- Admission to Wawel hill and courtyard is free of cost.State Rooms – 25 PLN,Crown Treasury and Armoury- 25 PLN,Art of the Orient. Ottoman Turkish Tents- 20 PLNThe Lost Wawel and the Church of St. Gereon – (weekends only)20 PLN Wieliczka Salt Mine- This is the most popular site near Krakow. One can undertake a half or a full day tour from Krakow. A UNESCO world heritage, this mining heritage of 13th Century is one of the oldest salt mines. Its a short ride of 30 minutes from Krakow. there are many things to see like the 20 chambers including lake chambers, corridors, church with decorations made of salt, chandeliers etc. It is located 327 m underground and there are series of steps and walking, hence comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, it is pretty cold in these mines and wearing warm clothes or carrying a jacket is advised. There are special tours for physically challenged people or the ones who have difficulty in walking by a special lift.Tickets- Entrance ticket in English language costs 93 PLN, and for Children and youth 73 PLZ. For taking photographs inside it is 10 PLN extraOpening Timings- 8 to 5 pm, one needs to book a slot from the hourly timings Oscar Schindlers Museum This museum features a permanent exhibition of interesting facts and things of the history of Krakow from World War II. The well-known movie Schindlers list of Steven Spielberg, has aided this museum gain its current popularity. Oskar Schindler a German business person started this enamelware factory and employed Jews through which he saved hundreds of lives from the Nazi labor camps and their atrocities.The museum has many rooms like the labor camp, a hairdresser’s salon etc. Anyone who is not a fan of museums like me, I would still advise to visit this place. Tips- On Mondays, the museum sells free limited tickets, so if you are lucky enough you could grab one by booking it online on their website. If you are keen to know their history in depth you can even choose the guided tours through various agents.Opening timings- Monday 10 to 4 pm,Tue- Sunday 9 to 8 pm (In summers), Free On Mondays (Subject To availability and limited number)Tickets – 25 PLN per person Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp You can do a half-day or full-day tour to this concentration camp. Auschwitz is the main camp and Birkenau the concentration camp. One needs to know this would be an emotional experience of the tragic times and a sobering memorial for the people who died.In Auschwitz you can see areas where victims were tortured by the Nazi Regime during the world war 2. A symbol of inhumanity and torture, this camp has a gas chamber, cells, basements and even exhibits with large collection of personal objects like pieces of clothing, shoes, piles of hair, toothbrush, and suitcases from people who were detained. These people lived in inhuman conditions, with limited food, and were forced to work till they died.Tips- Advise to book tours or guides to visit this place. It takes 1 hr 15 mins drive to reach (There are many tours which provide pick up and drop off service from hotels as well). It gets extremely crowded at the ticket booths and if not taking a tour advise to pre-book. You can choose from a 2.5 hr tour to a 6 hr tourOpening Timings- 8 to 6 pm (In summer)Tickets- Entry to the premises is free

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Things To Do In Dubrovnik Croatia

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Best Places To Visit In Dubrovnik

~Detailed 3 day Itinerary~ Croatia is a beautiful country which is gaining high popularity in recent years. There are many places to see and visit in this beautiful country of Croatia like Zagreb, Plitivice, Split etc. Among the top ranking cities is the scenic town of Dubrovnik. This is an itinerary for people who want to relax yet visit all the major sights of this town. So, let’s see how to spend 3 days in this town. Day 1- Today’s itinerary requires walking throughout and comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Pile Gate—Ancient City Walls—–Fort Lovrijenac—— Cable Car Ride First let’s start our day by visiting the most popular, stunning and unique sight of the Ancient City Walls. Thanks to the Game of Thrones (a hit TV series), this sight has become popular than ever before. The old city walls are very thick and were built as a defence system against invaders encircling the city in the 13th and 14th Century. It is a 2 km walk in total and there are few exits along the route if you don’t wish to complete the walk. The main entrance of the wall is at the beginning of the Stradun Street, on the left of pile gate where you will need to buy tickets. When you climb the stairs of the wall, you will see an eye-catching view of the inner city. Brown hatched roofs are on the left and Blue Adriatic Sea on the right. Now when you take the west side it will lead to the Minceta tower and there is a small café with splendid views of the Adriatic sea. The Pile Gate has served the main entrance to the old city for centuries.  The ticket costs 150Kn/21 Euros and this ticket also includes the adjoining Lovrijenac fort. Comfortable shoes are recommended along with an umbrella and water bottle. There is not shelter on the wall and hence it can get very hot during summers. After completing and enjoying your walk on the ancient walls, take an exit from the Pile gate where there are restaurants and shops located. You will find a narrow alley leading to the Fort Lovrijenac also known as St. Lawrence Fortress. The city wall ticket is valid on the Fort Lovrijenac. This fort also has many stairs to climb as it is on a cliff rising 37 metres above the Adriatic sea. The primary role was defensive one and historic symbol of resistance to Venetian Republic. It gives picturesque views of the old town. The wall facing the sea are 12 m wide while the those facing city are 60 cm thick. Explore the triangular layout from inside with 3 terraces and enjoy the views. Head down and then towards the town through the outer road, of circling the old city walls. For the Cable Car ride, there is a ticket office which is usually packed  with huge lines during the peak seasons. A return ticket for an adult costs 150 HRK, 60 HRK for children. One way tickets are 85 and 40 for adults and children respectively. The cable car can take about 25 people at a time. As you take the cable car for a short ride and head on SRD hill, you will experience magnificent views of the old city. There are few other attractions (for an extra cost) at the top of the hill like museum of homeland war, a buggy safari, restaurant and a pearl shop. Day 2- Guided walking tour of Game of Thrones—- Franciscan Monastery—-Stradun + Onofrio’s Fountain—– Banje Beach/ Lapad beach Start your day with exciting walking guided tour of Game of Thrones. There are plenty of private and group tours organised daily, with whom you can enjoy and visit the key locations used in filming of GOT along with Kings Landing with running commentary and behind the tales information. Also, you can choose to visit the Trsteno Arboretum which is featured as royal gardens in the show. After the tour, you could visit the Franciscan Monastery (buildings occupied by a community of monks living under religious vows). A city’s well preserved and old site is the Franciscan Church and monastery. It hosts rare manuscripts in the library, an old medieval pharmacy, a church and small museum with collection of old decorated jars etc. When exploring all these places you will cross the main Street – Stradun multiple times and the large Onofrio’s Fountain. This fountain was completed in 1438, where you can drink natural drinking spring water. This ancient water supply is a master piece supplying fresh water from Rijeka Dubrovačka, 12km away. The Sradun street is filled with many souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants and many small cute alleys. Don’t miss the parallel street to Stradun with many spots for Instagram worthy pictures. You could enjoy ice cream at the 2 famous shops namely “Sladoledarna” or “Dolce Vita”. Few other sites in the Old City itself are the Dubrovnik cathedral and Dominican Monastery. Heading next to the Banje beach, take an exit from Ploce gate, and head straight for a short walk of 5 mins towards the scenic and beautiful beach of Banje. You will enjoy some stunning views of the old town and can relax or go for a swim. There is a luxury hotel nearby, and also water sport activities like sea kayaking and windsurfing. There are few other popular beaches like Lapad Beach, which lies roughly 4 km to the northwest of the old city. This is a sandy beach with blue turquoise waters equipped with showers and sun loungers. There are many restaurants, hotels and children’s playground nearby. Day 3-One Day Tour to Lokrum Island Lokrum Island is pretty near to Dubrovnik by a short ferry ride. The ride lasts 15 mins from old port on half-hourly basis, and costs roughly 40 Kuna. Few people even opt for renting sea kayaks and visit this island. Besides sunbathing and relaxing, the island features ruins of Benedictine Monastery (built in medieval times) with a museum, restaurant

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8 Unique Things To Do In Copenhagen, Denmark for an Unforgettable Trip

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Best Places To Visit In Copenhagen Denmark

The Ultimate Guide Denmark is a beautiful country with rich history and many palaces/castles to visit and is ranked usually among the world’s happiest countries. A peaceful and bike-friendly country, lying in the Nordic Region famous for its high-quality design, architecture, and Danish Culture. This Scandinavian country has a temperate climate and hence cool summers and cold winters with the best times to visit from June to august. If you are planning to visit major sights then you can opt for the Copenhagen card, to avail free entries to almost 87 major attractions and free transport in the city area. The cards are valid from 24 hrs to 120 hrs and range from 56 Euros to 134 Euros. So now lets head and check out the top things to do in Copenhagen   Table of Contents Nyhavn Nhyavn definitely ranks among the top things to do in Copenhagen. It is the most popular and Instagram worthy, waterfront sight in Copenhagen. It ranks among the top things to do in Copenhagen. Built in 17th century, it’s an old harbor with many wooden ships docked in an artificial canal. The picture perfect colorful lined townhouses are from 17th– 18th century and have been renovated. The area is lined up with a number of restaurants, cafés and bars. Definitely among the best places to visit in CopenhagenTip- From Nyhavn Amalienborg Palace is walking distance and nice place to visit.Tickets- Free City/Town Hall Square City hall square is a large public square located in front of City Hall as the name suggests. It is popular for a variety of events and activities. It’s a nice square for a quick photo stop. It is surrounded by several notable buildings, including the Copenhagen City Hall, the Palace Hotel, and the National Museum of Denmark. A notable feature of the square is the Dragon Fountain which features four dragons spitting water into a circular basin. Today, it serves as a popular gathering place for numerous festivals, concerts, and other cultural events for locals and tourists alike. Overall, Town Hall Square is a must-visit destination and among the top things to do in CopenhagenTip- Located in central Copenhagen, stroll along this square while visiting the nearby sights Stroget Street This is a popular shopping street in Copenhagen with everything from city malls, flea markets to Danish designs. It is located between Raadhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv. It starts from City Hall itself and is among the longest pedestrian Streets. It has numerous variety of shops on both sides of the street. Along with famous brands and shops like Zara, H&M, Vero Moda, Magasin Du Nord Mall, Department Store Illums Bolighus, Prada, etc, there are many souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants.  This street is very popular among tourists and hence ranks among the top things to do in CopenhagenOpening Timings- Usually open from 10 to 6 pm on Weekdays, Saturdays from 10 to 5 pm, and Sundays from 10 to 4 pm The Round Tower Another top thing to do in Copenhagen is to visit The Round Tower. It is originally designed as an astronomy observatory, the Round Tower is among the oldest observatory deck. From the top of the round tower, you will have some splendid views of the city of Copenhagen. To get to the top, there is a distinctive spiral walk of 209 meters.  Along the way to the top there is also an old library hall which is now used for exhibitions, events, and concerts.Tip- Wearing comfortable shoes is advised.Free entry with Copenhagen cardOpening Timings- 10 to 6 pm (winters), 10 to 8 pm (summers)Ticket – 40 DKK per person Christianborg Palace The palace is not to be missed & among the top things to do in Copenhagen. One of the beautiful palaces this was one of the main residences of the royal family. After several fires, the Royal family moved to Amalienborg Palace. Currently, it is home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the offices of the Prime Minister and is used by the Queen for gala dinners and formal receptions. The Christiansborg Palace has five attractions; The Royal Reception Rooms with The Great Hall and The Tapestries, The Royal Stables, The Royal Kitchen, Christiansborg Palace Chapel, and the ruins under the palace.Tip-There are lockers to keep your large backpacks, strollers, and umbrellas If you hold a ticket to the Royal Reception rooms, you are entitled to a free guided tour of the premisesfree entry with Copenhagen CardBefore vising the palace check this link to see if it is open http://kongeligeslotte.dk/en/palaces-and-gardens/christiansborg-palace/visit-christiansborg-palace/opening-hours-at-christiansborg-palace.html Opening Timings- 10 to 5 pm, Closed on MondaysTickets- Combination Ticket (The Royal Reception Room, The Royal Kitchen,The Royal Stables)- 160 DKK, The Royal Reception Rooms– 95 DKK, The Royal kitchen- 60 DKK, The Royal Stables – 60 DKK, Free Admission To The Palace ChapelChildren under age of 18 have free entrance Amalienborg Palace  Another place that ranks among the top things to do in Copenhagen is Amalienborg Palace. This palace is the official residence of the Danish Royal family. It is a beautiful palace with a central square surrounded by a group of 4 palaces/buildings.  Visitors can visit 2 buildings, one of which is the Amalienborg Museum, and the second building has rococo rooms from an elegant dining room to the lavish great hall. This place is near the famous waterfront of Copenhagen, Nhyavn.Tips- The change of guards ceremony takes place exactly at 12 and every day and recommend not missing itFree entry with a Copenhagen cardTickets- 95 DKK per person Timings- Open from 10 to 4 pm Rosenborg Castle The Rosenborg castle was built as the summer residence King Christian IV, features Danish Royal collections from jewelry to crowns. As it was a royal residence till 1710, one can find lavish maintained interiors in the castle. This castle is divided into 3 floors along with one basement which is the treasury where the crowns and jewels are located. You can explore various rooms and their intricate decorations on all floorsTips-

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Best Things To Do In Lisbon, Portugal

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Best Places To Visit In Lisbon

Lisbon is one of the most interesting and vivid cities, full of life and energy. This city has to offer some amazing views of the brown hatched rooftops and pretty narrow alleys. A city which is gaining tremendous popularity and a must visit when on a trip to the south-western Europe. Here you go with my top picks to visit Torre De Belem-A popular landmark near the Tagus River and an UNESCO World Heritage site. A 30metre four storeyed tower, and a part of the defence system built to guard the port in 1500’s. Later this tower was used as a lighthouse and customs houseTips- -Entrance ticket to tower costs 6 Euros-Usually huge lines to get inside-Visit along with Jeronimos monastery as both are quite nearbyOpening Timings- October – April: 10 am to 5:30 pm, May – September: 10 am to 6.30 pm, Closed: MondaysEasy to access with trams, and taxis from City Centre Alfama District-Alfama is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. It is full of lively narrow alleys and Fado Houses (Places with traditional Portuguese cuisine and Fado music singers).Sights not to be missed-Graca- Graca is highest among the seven hills and is popular for its beautiful views, and nearby the Sao Jorge CastleLargo Portas Do Sol /Miradouro Portas Do Sol Observation Deck- Fantastic views, with a unique maze of stairways and streetsMiradouro de Santa Luzia-  Santa Luzia Church’s TerraceLisbon CathedralNational Pantheon/ Church of Santa EngraciaTips–No entrance ticket -Beware of pick pocketing as highly common in these areas-While returning from Alfama, follow the tracks of tram 28 to the city centre. Tram passes over the Lisbon Cathedral-Can take Segway, Tuk Tuk or walking tours for informative, detailed and safe expedition Jeronimos Monastery-A UNESCO world heritage site, and a national monument, Jeronimos Monastery is extremely popular for its intricate carving and structure. This massive structure was built in the glorious ages of Portugal. A monastery and church, along with a museum it also hosts the burial site and tomb of Vasco De Gamma along with other kingsTips–Regular entrance ticket costs 10 Euros-Entry to church is free of cost-Lines are huge to get inside-Visit along with Belem tower as both are quite nearby-Must buy tickets online to avoid long queuesOpening Timings- October to April from 10 am to 5 pm. May to September, from 10 am to 6:30 pm, Closed: MondaysEasy to access with trams, and taxis from city centre Day Tour to Sintra along with Pena Palace-Take the most popular day tour from Lisbon to the town of Sintra which hosts the Sintra National palace with 2 white chimneys and also the most picturesque and majestic Pena Palace. The fairy tale Pena Palace sits up high in the mountains with colourful exteriors and impressive state rooms with copper vessel in a vintage kitchen and massive decorative entrance.Tips–It’s a short ride from central Lisbon with less than an hour required to reach Sintra-Lines are huge to get inside to view the rooms inside the Pena Palace with high waiting times-Can reach Sintra and Palace easily by buses and trains-Visit along with small organised tours to enjoy hassle free experience because of the huge crowds-Try avoiding the peak hours from 10.30 to 14.00-There are few strict policies on clicking photos of the interiors, so be carefulTickets- Entrance ticket to Pena Palace and park is 14 Euros, only to the park is 7.50 EurosOpening Timings- 10 am to 6 pm The Beautiful Town of Sintra-  Commercio square/ Praca do Commercio-This grand plaza is right at the heart of the city, filled with many restaurants and cafes. Also, boasts the popular shopping street on the Rua Augusta Arch. This beautiful waterside plaza is a popular pick up point and starting point for many tours and groups. It was destroyed by the great Lisbon earthquake which struck in 1755 and it was remolded againTips- -Free of cost entry-Beware of many people offering drugs and even pick pocketers-Spend time strolling around waterside, shopping and having coffee or eating in a restaurant Rossio Square- This is a simple yet very energetic square, flaunts baroque fountains and is located in the city centre of Lisbon. The wave patterned flooring and the atmospheric cafes with outdoor seating seem very picturesque.Tips- Sit, relax and watch people pass by and click pictures Day tour to Cabo da Roca- Head to the westernmost point of Europe to view the grand cliff side and granite boulders.  A short drive of 40 to 45 mins, enjoy the panoramic view of the blue waters at 150 m (approx.) above sea level. Historical traces of Cabo Do Roca fort are unfortunately not there, except for the light houseTips–No entrance fee–Combine with Sintra day tour along if short on time–Also, you can combine it with the pretty town of Cascais for a half day tour Hop aboard the funiculars or take tram rides-Tram rides and funiculars are a backdrop of the city, and extremely popular with tourists. The historic city would be incomplete without the rattling of the wooden cars and the crowds to catch them. There are 5 tram lines, all of them which pass through the city centre or downtown. Among them Tram 28 is the most popular scenic tour, for some beautiful city insightsTips- Free of cost entry-Beware of pick pocketing, as extremely common in these trams. Secure your backpacks and never keep your phone/valuables loose or in your back pocket-Huge lines in summers to board tram 28. It can get extremely crowded and uncomfortable due to the heat-One can also walk along the route of tram 28, but is quite exhausting due to the steep route but a different experience-Buy tickets before boarding the trams, from machines, as they don’t give change and it’s expensive to buy ticket on board Explore Chiado Area on Foot-Chiado is a nice neighbourhood to explore on foot and soak in the atmosphere. Chiado is famous for luxury shops and many theatres/museums. This area is filled with many hotels and is closest to the city centre. It is popular for

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