Grand Tour of Europe

I did it! I booked a month long trip throughout Europe and experienced the time of my life (thought this was a cheesy saying until now). Honestly, there were moments that I cried genuine, salty, tears of both awe and pride that I took the leap. I would pay for everyone to experience this pursuit, if I could, as I truly believe that it has evolved me in immeasurable ways. Had someone told me years ago that I'd be jetting off to another continent to spend 30 days with 40 strangers, I would've crawled back into my cocoon of social anxiety rolled my eyes back into my skull- who knew!

If you're considering taking this trip, book it now (& thank me later). I went knowing no one and left with both friends and memories that will last my lifetime. Most of the group was arriving solo, yet no one was ever left behind. The inclusive and kind hearts of these travelers impacted me in ways that I can't put into words. Okay, I'll stop with the love story, but here are some tips and recs for the best month ever!

Stop 1: London, United Kingdom

Stay: SafeStay Hostel @ Elephant & Castle

Our hostel was nice and in a decent location, walking distance to a cute pub and grub complex as well as not too far from the "Tube" aka, the underground transportation. I never felt unsafe, even when walking home late-night. 

To Do: Fish and Chips is a MUST. We started off Day 1 with a bus tour seeing Big Ben, House of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and more. Some of us pre-booked the London Eye, and while others traveled to the famous Abbey Road, I opted out. Covent Garden and Tate Modern are great for this day, as well.

For Day 2, dome of us bought the London Pass which had many sites to offer, including a "Hop on, Hop Off" bus to take you to and fro. One of the stops included was Tower of London, this legendary tower is home to a bloody history, as well as the crown jewels, with views of the majestic Tower Bridge. They had a great dining facility and we even caught the Changing of the Guard. Kensington Palace was included as well (along with much more). Others took an excursion to Oxford for the day, which I heard was quite a drive and somewhat disappointing. I honestly wish I would've taken the Stonehenge excursion but, maybe next time. West End Theatre district and Soho were suggested, for the evening. That night, some headed out to the Ministry of Sound nightclub but I was exhausted. 

Day 3, we explored the city, including London Eye (champagne experience, duh), Shakespeare's globe, and a famous gummy bridge. We also enjoyed high tea at Mad Hatters, you will definitely need a reservation for the full experience here, but well worth it. Some visited Tate Modern but I opted for the more historical British Museum (home of the Rosetta Stone!), highly suggest. The National Gallery was more my style for art, which we also squeezed in. Be SURE to make an appointment for tea at The Mad Hatter's. We dropped the ball on this but were able to enjoy tea at the bar and view the experience second hand. Ended the night with the Jack the Ripper tour, it was okay but I would've rather enjoyed more of London on my own time.

The Tube, so clean & easy to navigate. Definitely recommend getting a pass but Uber works here, too.

Shakespeare's Globe

Buckingham Palace

Best phone booth photo-op with Big Ben in the background

The London Eye- definitely allot some time to explore this fun part of town

Kensington Palace- Honestly, I wouldn't suggest this unless you're a huge British Royals fan or, trying to get as much out of your London Pass as possible. It was pretty bare inside, but did feature the collection of Princess Diana's dresses (this may be a travelling exhibit).

The Tower of London was well worth it, would've loved to explore more here (I missed the torture chamber).

Tower Bridge, seen from the Tower of London

The Queen's guards protecting the Crown Jewels at The Tower of London.

Rosetta Stone, found at The British Museum. This museum is free of charge, I wish I had more time here, there was so much to see.

Harry Potter fans, be sure to schedule this in at the King's Cross Station. This was super convenient for us as we took the EuroStar to Paris, and this was right across the street. You can get your photo taken here for a charge but I opted out of the line.

Stop 2: Paris, France

Stay: Ibis Paris @ Berthier Porte

This hotel was very inconvenient to get to and from the city, but, the price was right. The neighborhood was okay (not much to do) and there was a little walk to the underground plus a longer ride. Still, it's worth the savings if you're prepped enough to have all you need for full days in the city as to-and-fro will waste you large gaps of time.

The EuroStar to Paris under the English Channel was a nice, quick ride. I highly suggest traveling by train throughout Europe, so much quicker than by bus (just pack light for boarding ease).

To Do:

Tears fell when I rounded the corner to see this beauty (so cliche, I know). This was a great photo spot! 

Don't forget to bring a picnic of Rose, baguettes, and cheese (cutlery and cups included) for the greens, even a swimsuit for a dip, if the weather's right! We took a "lift" (see, I talk British now) to the top level for an extra charge, def worth it.

Be sure to hang around until late night when the tower lights up (crepes in hand from a local vendor) for a truly magical moment. We also took a sunset cruise to pass the time before this and saw some great sights along the Seine on the way, highly recommend.

Remember, folks, water is quite the commodity in Europe so tote a large reusable (disposable, in case you need to toss it) bottle for use at the public fountains. Also, I don't recommend large bags, there were warning signs for pick pockets everywhere. I had a small cross-body swung around my front for protection. Guys should definitely were a money belt for wallets under the clothes, no back pocket use.

Notre Dame- we didn't go in due to a large line but beautiful detail on the outside.

Hall of Mirrors- Versailles

Honestly, I regret spending a whole day to, from, and at the Palace of Versailles. It was a trek to get there (albeit, a scenic one by train) and our private guide told us none of the revolutionary history that I was expecting. If you're into fancy houses, you may enjoy, I would recommend spending the day in the city though if on a tight time frame.

Arc de Triumphe- Really regretting not going up to the top of this! I've heard that the sunset (complete with champs and macaroons) is beautiful.

Paris Catacombs! See the movie "As Above, So Below" beforehand, if this is on your to-do list.

To avoid the (seemingly never-ending) line and have a private guide with extra access, I splurged on this tour. I would recommend if it's your thing! 

The Louvre- I heard that teachers get in free but since we went with a group, I paid the group rate to avoid lines. Wish I could've spent all day here, so much to see.

Mona- smaller than you'd think but still neat to see

Read Dan Brown's "The DaVinci Code" then thank me later.
*PSA- all of Brown's books are amaze, for you history lovers*

The Pantheon- didn't have a chance to go inside but I would add to the list!

Montmarte Sacre Coeur Cathedral- this was a picturesque area with a sublime view of the sunset

If the Moulin Rouge is a fave of yours, be sure to check out a show. Other stops we made were the Paris Opera, Fragonard Fragrance Experience, Pierre Herme macaroons, Saint-Étienne-du-Mont (amazing stained glass and home of St. Genevieve), and Au Bistrot de la Montagne please, schedule this in for a group Bistro dinner- so fun and right around the corner from the church and the Pantheon. I honestly felt like I was in a novel as we always found something magical in Paris whenever we explored. It was truly my favorite city with the perfect summer weather and so much to offer.
Au Revoir!

Stop 3: Ghent, Belgium

Ghent was a quick stop en route from Paris to Amsterdam via bus. It was a charming city complete with Belgium waffles and fries.

Stop 4: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Stay: StayOkay @ Zeeburg

This was a great location and the transportation in Amsterdam (above ground) was so convenient. Definitely recommend getting a public transport card.

Amsterdam was one of my favorite cities, everything was clean and everyone was kind. 

Check out the Red Light District (maturely and respectfully, no photos/pointing) to see one of the oldest professions in history. 

Canal booze cruise is a must. Our guide even brought us out cheese boards!

DO NOT leave Amsterdam without visiting the Anne Frank house. It is worth the line. This was a heartbreaking experience, yet so important. The museum did a beautiful job, bring the tissues.

Check out the "I amsterdam" sign for an eye spy photo op.

We traveled by (ultra vintage) bus to a clog and cheese farm! They showed us how clogs are made using the authentic tradition from long ago.

For our "Christmas Around the World" rotations, we rotate through countries in our classrooms and I've always chose the Netherlands. So I HAD to purchase some bulky clogs to leave out (in lieu of stockings) for Sinter Klaas to fill.

We also learned how the farms makes cheese and tried some delicious samples. 

This was such a fun trip, it was like stepping back into wholesome times.

Next, we went to the fishing village of Volendam. It was magical, I highly, highly, recommend. Such fresh seafood, so save room for lunch!

I know... speechless. BUT I think this will pair well with my Dutch Christmas unit. Taken in Volendam!

The Amsterdam Ice Bar was FREEZING (literally) but a {cool} check off the bucket list. Bundle up!

We took a scenic bikeride through the Dutch countryside and stopped for homemade pancakes at the most adorable village restaurant.

Amsterdam has so much to offer with the best of both worlds in city & countryside life. I also suggest visiting the Van Gogh museum, I didn't get the chance to but heard it was amazing.Club Escape is said to be a good time for late-nighters.

Stop 5: Frankfurt, Germany
Ibis Frankfurt @ Centrum
This hotel was very nice, convenient location, and offered the best breakfast. We didn't use public transport but once as much was in walking distance for our single evening there.

We visited the European Union sign in the heart of Frankfurt

& ascended to the top of the tower "Frankfurt Main" for 360 views

Then we headed to this older part of town, complete with picturesque homes and shops

Along with traditional schnitzel dinner and ale (cider for me)

Before stopping at a Beergarden

And ending with dessert, apple strudel and warm cider!

We didn't have much time in Germany and I would've loved to explore other cities, such as Berlin & Munich, but will have to add those to the list for next time.

PIT STOP: Eguisheim- beautiful French Provincial town, would love to spend more time here and explore winery. Queue Beauty & the Beast intro music.

Well

Fountain

Stop 6: Lucerne, Switzerland

Ski Lodge Engelberg was our stay in the valley of a nearly abandoned (for the summer) ski town. It was uber cute and had a decent restaurant/ bar for convenience, as well. The view was spectacular but the AC was nonexistent, leaving the windows open cooled just fine.

Views from Engelberg, would love to go back during ski season

Our quaint hotel in Engelberg

Lucerne, mourning Lion from loss of the Swiss Army fighters (Switzerland no longer partakes in warfare and remains neutral in these times)

Kapellbrücke bridge, constructed 1333 (oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe)

We took the ferry across Lake Luzern then came to Mount Pilatus (cool dragon lore), we ascended via the world's most vertical train and came down on cable car

Highly suggest hiking to the summit, the mountain has interesting lore of the medieval dragon tales (fun to research beforehand!)

Wear safe shoes and sun protection

Switzerland was expensive, but the authentic Swiss Army Knives (personalized on spot, making great souvenirs) along with the Swiss Chocolate (obv.) made it worth the while.

Stop 7: Verona, Italy
We stopped breifly in the city of Verona (sound familiar, Shakespeare fans?) which had it's fair share of history.

Messages to Juliet

Rub her breast for luck in love

Juliet's Balcony

Call it a tourist trap, but I found it charming. The city had much more to offer, but unfortunately, we only had an hour here.

Stop 8: Venice, Italy
Hotel Delfino @ Mestro
We stayed outside of Venice in the town of Mestro that was only a quick bus and boat ride away. There were some good spots for dinner near our hotel and the rooms were spacious.
Venice can be done in a day (easy) in my opinion. I'm glad I went, and wish I would've spent more time with the history, such as the Doge's Palace and the Rialto Bridge, instead of wandering in circles and a disappointing gondola ride; still, it was an experience.

St. Mark's Basilica- beautiful inside, but be sure to come with shoulders and knees covered (church attire)

I found this to be a telling clock, noting the sun revolving around the Earth, as that was the church's message at the time, that the Earth, in fact, was the center of our universe. Any who questioned (what we now know to be true) considered a heretic and punishable by death

Venice has it's own leaning tower, as well. Remember, it is the sinking city

Canals a plenty

I was super disappointed in our gondola ride. At $30 per person with 6 people ($180 per "cruise") we received a cup of champagne and a silent 15 minute ride. Definitely not worth the time nor money, in my opinion.

One of the best nights of the trip was the Italian Family Vineyard the family was hospitable, the wine, the best ever, and the home cooked dinner, superb. Please consider visiting, I even bought wine to bring home (no, it didn't make it- lol).

Stop 9: Orvieto, Italy
We made a quick stop to this hilltop town and there's a lot more than meets the eye to attest to it's history. If given the chance to return I will definitely explore the underground caves and tunnels leading through it's rich roots.

Orvieto Cathedral- 1290
This is a beautifully, impeccably preserved church that you must see in person

The city, complete with medieval castles, was last conquered by Julius Ceasar. 

Stop 10: Rome, Italy
Hotel Club House was a nice stay not too far from the city center. Buses and metro were available for fairly quick transit, and a delicious pizza restaurant (super reasonable, too!) was just around the corner.

Vatican City- Smallest country in the world. Very neat to visit if you're into Dan Brown books (no, I won't stop referencing him)  

Gallery of Maps- Vatican

Real live Swiss Guards!

St. Peter's Basilica- We did see the Sistine Chapel but no photos allowed.
You'll also notice that most of the male genitalia has been defaced or covered, an insult to such historial and impressive works of art. I suggest further research before visiting.

Bruno was burnt alive to death at the stake in this very square for heresy due to his ideals and contributions of profound scientific understanding that was not accepted by the church, at the time. In the days of "free speech" use your voice for channeling progressive beliefs on behalf of those who could not.

Fountain of Four Rivers- Angels & Demons, read and watch

Always filling up on water when given the chance, these ancient aqueducts were quite refreshing

Roman Colosseum 70 A.D.

Roman Forum, there seemed to be a lot of history here. Very exciting to wander the town and imagine stepping back in time. Amazing that these structures still stand

Trevi Fountain- throw in a coin and you'll return to Rome, they say

Must. Try. That is all.

The Pantheon of Rome has a circular open center aligned with a single floor drain for rainfall.

I actually got lost in Rome, with no cellular reception, ALONE, en route to the Da Vinci machines exhibit (which I found, by the grace of God) but honestly- it was somewhat exhilarating hopping aboard the wrong bus, getting off at the wrong stop, and winding my way back all whilst maintaining my sanity pretending that it was a Mary Kate & Ashley movie. I skipped the pasta making class that many of my roomies attended (pasta's not my thing) but thoroughly enjoyed being present for the opera dinner.

Stop 11: Florence, Italy
Wow Florence Hostel- this hostel was probably the worst. The restrooms were moldy, the breakfast- severely lacking, but the location was prime. I first became acquainted with Florence from my beloved Dan Brown novels (are you getting annoyed yet?) and was excited to visit even though the the famed Renaissance Art is not so much my thing (I prefer artifacts and historical knowledge).

Dante's Home- Dante's Inferno 

Rub the snout for good luck!

Statue of David at the Academia Galleria- must see, massive

Giotto's Bell Tower, we climbed over 400 steps! I consider myself in pretty decent shape, but about 50 steps in through the extremely narrow spiral staircase I exclaimed, "this was a mistake..." so glad I sucked it up- lol!

Views of the Duomo from atop the bell tower- wish we could've climbed this but it was sold out. I suggest booking in advance

For the best hor d'oeuvres, drinks, and sunset view, visit the rooftop bar of the Westin Excelsior.

Stop 12: The Italian Riviera & Cinque Terre
We took a bus from Florence, then a train along the scenic Cinque Terre (Italian for 5 villages, pronounced "cheenkwe terre"). This was the most scenic part of the Euro-trip, and you mustn't leave Italy without exploring it!

I believe we only visited these three of the five: Riomaggiore, Vernazza (colorful cliffside homes, I want to say), and Moterosso. Each had much to offer with the beaches and fresh seafood, I would love to go back again and fully explore all 5. Time was limited but, if time allows, research the hiking trails in Cinque Terre!

Stop 13: Pisa, Italy
We stopped for a quick photo op, can you guess why? Duh.
It was neat to see and fun to play with pictures (there are a lot more creative ideas out there than these two generics) and one day, they say the tower will fall, so I'm happy to have seen it.

NOTE: Have the photog adjust their camera angle rather than trying to adjust your position on a small beam

We didn't get a chance to go inside (is that a thing?) as we were only there about 30 minutes but there were lots of stalls with super cheap souvenirs along the way.

 Stop 14:  Monte Carlo, Monaco
Next, we stopped for a couple hours in the (second smallest) country of Monaco. Home of the beloved Grace Kelly, Grand Prix, and 007 featured casino, the Monte Carlo. As a lover of Roulette, I opted to head out with a small group to try our hand at the latter. The dress code is strictly enforced. The majority of our group was turned away (they abided by the posted afternoon dress; however, evening dress was enforced) and only 5 of us were permitted entrance. I was shook when I approached the roulette table with 5 suited, seated, gentlmen observers (workers), the board in French, and quite different from the American play. Additionally, minium bids were quite high. So, a $30 entrance fee, $19 bellini, and $50 (sub $ for Euros) investment in, I left empty handed but full of memories.

Also, I know I look horrendous in these photos but keep in mind... We woke up in Florence, traveled to Pisa, then traveled here (LONG day of traveling) and still, more to go.

Stop 15: French Riviera
Hotel Le Collier- Excellent hotel with beautiful views and walking distance to the picturesque village with much to offer shop and dinner wise
We stayed in Antibes and visited Nice, these coastal towns were the (okay, they're rivaling Cinque Terre) most gorgeous spots. Cannes was a short train ride away but I was having too much fun in Nice to venture there. I loved, loved, loved, the town of Antibes. The small town vibe and best seafood was difficult to rival, but Nice's beaches were superb (albeit cold and pebbly).

Stop 16: Montmeyan, France
We made a pit stopped here and kayaked along the cliff-side lake valley of Montmeyan . Wear your swimsuit! The water was nice and warm.

Stop 17: Provence, France

Adagio Access @ Nimes- this was a nice hotel, very ideal location

Nimes was beautiful had surprisingly ancient Roman roots, as well.

Muscles in the French Riviera are a MUST

Stop 18: Carcassone, France
We stopped here on the way to Spain, would've LOVED to spend more time exploring here, especially the medieval castle! There were great restaurants and shopping tucked away in the little village, you even had to cross a drawbridge to enter {swoon}

Game of Thrones, much?

Stop 19: Barcelona, Spain
Generator Hostel @ BCN CB
The hostel was decent and location, not bad.
I honestly wasn't too thrilled about spending the last leg of my trip in Spain, but boy, did Spain prove me wrong. I absolutely loved it, the Sangria, Paella, people, siestas, and all. We also had a fun night with Mojitos at "The Mint" followed by dancing at "City Hall", as we opted out of popular "Opium".

Gaudi

Park Guell

Sagrada Familia

Beach

Paella Making Class

Stop 20: Madrid, Spain
The Hat Hostel- best hostel of all! This was super cool, rooftop bar, awesome room with loft (room 1), and walking distance to a bustling square.

Reina Sofia Muesum

Photo Op

Man Muesum was a must see, surely you've heard of "Lucy"?! 

Museo Arqueológico Nacional- Madrid, Spain

Well, that's all, folks! For a $100 off discount code of your own (you can add this to additional discounts/ sales that may be offered throughout the year!) email me! I promise, you won't regret it. This has been the best investment on my mind, soul, and palette.