Europe
Showing posts with label Europe. Show all posts
What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days: Visiting Berlin, Germany
Got 3 days in Berlin? There is so much that you can do.
I flew from Barcelona to Berlin for $29. How could I resist visiting Berlin at such a bargain? I ended up visiting Berlin for one week, so I have a good idea of how you can condense what to do in Berlin in 3 days.
About me: I write about travel, food, drinks. I've worked with tourism boards such as Visit Long Beach, Visit El Paso, The French Ministry of Agriculture, Visit Reno Tahoe, & Discover Torrance. To learn more about the campaigns I've been a part of, read my Press + Media page.
 |
| The view of the Tiergarten from the Victory Column in Berlin, Germany. |
Visiting Berlin
Where is Berlin, Germany? Are there tips on what to do in Berlin in 3 days? How about the best Berlin photo spots? This post is ideal for anyone visiting Berlin. Keep reading or scroll to find what you're looking for. Traveling somewhere soon? Check visa requirements!
So, Where is Berlin, Germany?
You might be wondering where is Berlin exactly? In relation to the rest of Europe & the world, where is Berlin, Germany? That's a good question - it's good to be inquisitive. Berlin is the capital of the country of Germany. It's the biggest city in Germany in both area & population, located in the eastern part of the country.
Related reading: How To Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights
 |
| Tips for visiting Berlin: go to Brandenburg Gate. |
3 Days in Berlin Itinerary
72 hours is enough time to visit some of the best places in the city. Try to knock as much as you can on that first day. Three days pass by quickly, so go to the well-known, high-rated places mixed with some of your bucket list items.
Brandenburg Gate
If you have 3 days in Berlin, Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin's most iconic landmarks. The history dates back as far as 1788 when it was constructed. In 1961, the Berlin Wall was inaccessible to locals & visitors since it was in an exclusion zone. After the fall of the wall, people celebrated at Brandenburg Gate & it remains a symbol of a reunited Berlin to this day.
East Side Gallery (former Berlin Wall)
Searching for what to do in Berlin in 3 days? You must visit the East Side Gallery, a portion of the Berlin Wall that still exists. This 1.3-kilometer piece of the former Berlin Wall is completely covered in murals & art. Some of the art is moving & poignant. Some of the art is happy & fun. East Side Gallery is easily one of the best Berlin photo spots with the range of art that covers it. Check out the Berlin Wall Museum. *One of the top Berlin photo spots
Related reading: Learn About the Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, Germany
 | |
|
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Also known as the Holocaust Memorial, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, stands to commemorate & remember the victims of the Holocaust. Designed by architect Peter Eisenman & engineer Buro Happold, the memorial contains over 2,500 concrete pieces arranged in a grid, in a somewhat undulating pattern, rising & falling depending on where you walk. I must say I was completely moved at this memorial & took a somber minute to honor the Holocaust victims & survivors. This should go without saying but please be respectful.
Tiergarten
The Tiergarten is easily one of my favorite things to do in Berlin. The inner-city park feels like a tranquil haven within the city. Make sure to stop by if you're pondering what to do in Berlin in 3 days. A must-see for those visiting Berlin, great Berlin photo spots.Alexanderplatz
Spend a few hours exploring Alexanderplatz, a public square, one of the essential stopping points for those visiting Berlin. Alexanderplatz feels like a lively downtown area with its multitude of shops, restaurants, cinemas, within walking distance. Alexanderplatz is located close to the TV Tower, Berliner Rathaus, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, & more.
Hackescher Markt
If you want to go for a stroll, do a bit of shopping at local boutiques, then you need to tour Hackescher Markt.
Checkpoint Charlie
Located on Friedrichstrasse, Checkpoint Charlie is a historic stop for travelers who make a trip to Berlin. Checkpoint Charlie was set up as a border crossing between East & West Germany during the Cold War, named by the Western Allied forces.
Mall of Berlin
Some people sight-see, some people shop. The Mall of Berlin is a massive shopping center in Berlin with around 300 shops for your purchasing pleasure. Shop your heart out, scout out a souvenir or two, or grab dinner in the food court (that’s the option I went for). It was scrumptious! If you need some supplies (clothes, etc.), this might be the place to stock up.
Charlottenburg Palace
Plan a visit to the rococo Charlottenburg Palace, built for Sophie Charlotte, Queen consort in Prussia.
Berlin Television Tower
The Berlin Television Tower is kind of like the North Star; you can see it from anywhere & it almost becomes a navigation tool. "Ah yes, I can see the Berlin Television Tower - we're getting close." The Tower stands 368 meters tall. On a cloudy day, the Tower becomes obscured into the skyline & looks something to the effect of Jack's beanstalk once his magic beans sprouted into the clouds.
Take Me to Church
Top churches in Berlin include Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church, St. Hedwig's Cathedral, St. Mary's Church, Berlin Cathedral, St. Nicholas Church, Maria Regina Martyrum, and more.
Museums: What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days
Berlin is a city rich in history. A trip to Berlin isn't complete without a museum visit. I could drone for hours about the museums in Berlin. There's even an entire Museum Island dedicated to museums in Berlin. Here are some of the museums to check out while visiting Berlin or if you're searching for what to do in Berlin in 3 days.
Head to top museums such as Pergamon Museum, Neues Museum (New Museum), Altes Museum (Old Museum), Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery), Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum Berlin), Gropius Bau, Museum für Naturkunde (Museum of Natural History), Deutsches Technikmuseum.
You can visit the Reichstag Building, Charlottenburg Palace, Topography of Terror, Jewish Museum Berlin. Take a look at the Visit Berlin top museums page to look at the range of museums. They go into detail about the top museums in Berlin including art museums, child-friendly museums, photography, design, and film museums, natural history museums, and more.
 |
| Posing at the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin (Berlin Botanical Garden). |
Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin (Berlin Botanical Garden)
Man oh man do I love a botanical garden & the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin is no different. If you can't think of what to do in Berlin in 3 days, add this to your list. I was impressed with the sheer size of the place & it felt like not many people were there. The Tropical Greenhouse is worth a visit as one of the top Berlin photo spots.
Food
Go on a food tour. Check out restaurants on Yelp or Google and save some on your Google Maps. You can also reserve your spot at a restaurant ahead of time in case they need reservations.
 |
| Roamers Cafe in Berlin, Germany. |
How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad
There are plenty of ways to save money while you're traveling. Eating out three square meals each day in Berlin can be costly. If you're staying at a hotel, take advantage of any hotel breakfasts. If you're renting a place with a kitchen, stop by a local grocery store to grab a few groceries. Read my blog post for many more tips & tricks on How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad.
Time to visit Berlin! So did you find the answers to your questions? Where is Berlin Germany? What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days? What are the best Berlin photo spots? Comment your best tip or if I missed something!
What to See in Warsaw: 45+ Things to Do in Warsaw, Poland
Need a ridiculously long list of things to do in Warsaw or what to see in Warsaw? I got you, my friend. Seriously no need to Google what to do in Warsaw for 12 hours, just print out this post, book a couple outings directly, & call it a day so you can watch Friends on Netflix for the 4,000th time. Travelers can visit Warsaw with family, kids, with friends, alone, or however you to travel.
Warsaw, Poland
If the capital of Poland isn’t already on your travel radar, add it to your travel bucket list immediately. You don't have to ponder long on the top tourist attractions in Poland or what to do in Warsaw. There's TOO much, you won't be able to finish while you're visiting! Expect more crowds in the summer.Picture a colorful, well-preserved Old Town Warsaw rebuilt after it was completely destroyed during World War II. This entire city has a wide range of food options: gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, no matter your desires, there's an option for your dietary needs, making this one of the most foodie-friendly cities I’ve visited in Europe.
 |
| View from Warszawa Taras Widokowy in Old Town Warsaw Square. |
About Carmen
As a travel influencer, I'm always looking for my next adventure. On most days, I'm a San Diego food, travel, and lifestyle blogger, but since I work remotely, I can travel & work as long as there's Wi-Fi. I spent some time exploring Porto, Milan, & other bits of Europe! Learn more about me here. |
| Buildings & flowers from the University of Warsaw Library Rooftop Garden. |
What to See in the Polish Capital: Castles & Palaces
Get a feel of Polish history at some of these beautiful places.
Royal Castle - The Royal Castle Warsaw has both permanent & temporary exhibitions. Audio guides & guided tours available. Buy tickets to Skip The Line Royal Castle Guided Tour. Also called plac Zamkowy / Castle Square.
Krasiński Palace - The Baroque architecture & manicured gardens of Krasiński Palace's make it look like the White House in Washington D.C. Ideal Warsaw sightseeing spot for romance, date night, or a solo moment alone.
Kazimierzowski Palace - University of Warsaw is a stunner. Constructed around 1643, Kazimierzowski Palace remains the University of Warsaw's oldest building.
Ujazdowski Castle - Looks like a castle, says it's a castle, but you might also know the castle as Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art. Exhibition & cinema tickets available. Admission free on Thursday.
Presidential Palace - Feel royal at the Presidential palace of Warsaw, the seat of the president of the Republic of Poland. Add the palace to your sightseeing list.
Piłsudski Square - Imagine a big, open cement area with the occasional memorial or sculpture. That's Piłsudski Square. Including Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
 |
| The nighttime light show at the Multimedia Fountain Park. |
Gardens, Parks, Nature, Best Views
From garden views to music in the park, there's a lot to do in nature. Enjoy the atmosphere, see outdoor exhibitions, or find a community event.
Chopin in the Park - Music lovers will adore this experience. Frédéric François Chopin (born Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin) was a famous Polish composer and pianist. There is the Frederic Chopin Monument in Warsaw (Polish: Pomnik Fryderyka Chopina w Warszawie). See a Chopin concert and check the calendar out to browse when they happen!
Multimedia Fountain Park at night - Easy Warsaw sightseeing option with free shows May through September. The fountain changes colors & splish splashes artistically as music plays. One of my favorite free things to do in Warsaw. *my personal favorite.
Ogród Saski (Saxon Garden) - I was blown away by Warsawa's gardens. Head over to take a look at the fountain at Ogród Saski, also known as Saxon Garden. Perfect for Warsaw sightseeing & free things to do in Warsaw, Poland.
Ogród Saski (Saxon Garden) - I was blown away by Warsawa's gardens. Head over to take a look at the fountain at Ogród Saski, also known as Saxon Garden. Perfect for Warsaw sightseeing & free things to do in Warsaw, Poland.
Vistula River - Big river. Can't miss it. The Vistula River area even has an ecological walking & cycling path. *my personal favorite.
Landing Point - Nice beachy spot by the Vistula River. Play water sports, relax all day.
Landing Point - Nice beachy spot by the Vistula River. Play water sports, relax all day.
Łazienki Park (Lazienki Park or Royal Baths Park) - I walked by Lazienki Park a handful of times. One of the easier city of Warsaw sightseeing options. *my personal favorite.
 |
| Travel influencer? Photo lover? Take a photo at the University of Warsaw Library Rooftop Garden. Jeans: Liverpool Jeans in Peyton // Shop these exact Liverpool Jeans here. Shoes: Fila Disruptors // Shop these exact Fila Disruptor sneakers here. |
University of Warsaw Library Rooftop Garden - Do not miss this rooftop garden, easily one of the best free things to do in Warsaw. As far as what to see in Warsaw, you can savor a lovely view of Poland's capital from various points of the University of Warsaw Library Rooftop Garden. *my personal favorite.
University of Warsaw Botanic Garden (Ogród Botaniczny Uniwersytetu Warszawskiego) - I never miss a botanical garden. I love me some nature. Established in 1818 by the distinguished botanist Michał Szubert, the botanic garden stays open April through October. *my personal favorite.
Palace of Culture and Science 30th Floor Viewing Point - The best Warsaw sightseeing option to view the city from above. I talk more about the Palace of Culture and Science down below. *my personal favorite.
Warszawa Taras Widokowy - Awesome view of Old Town Warsaw Square / Old Town Market Place. Super afford Warsaw sightseeing. *my personal favorite.
Palace of Culture and Science 30th Floor Viewing Point - The best Warsaw sightseeing option to view the city from above. I talk more about the Palace of Culture and Science down below. *my personal favorite.
Warszawa Taras Widokowy - Awesome view of Old Town Warsaw Square / Old Town Market Place. Super afford Warsaw sightseeing. *my personal favorite.
 |
| The Warsaw Mermaid in Old Town Warsaw Square with colorful buildings in the background. |
What to See in Warsaw: Sightseeing & Historic Attractions
History buffs will savor the knowledge, museums, and attractions in Warsaw. There are monuments, historical buildings, cultural institutions, and more to explore as you walk around. You're surrounded by life. Discover the sculptures, churches, museums, sights, and stories.
Warsaw Uprising Monument (Polish: pomnik Powstania Warszawskiego)
Old Town Warsaw - As far as what to do in Warsaw, don't leave the bustling city without checking out the magic that is Old Town Square. It's charming, historic, photo-friendly, & beautiful. Definitely one of the tourist attractions in Poland. *my personal favorite. Warsaw Old Town is a must-see. The Historic Centre of Warsaw is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
Mermaid in Old Town Warsaw Square - Snap a photo at this Instagram hotspot. The mermaid is an iconic symbol of Warsaw. See how many mermaids you count throughout the city. *my personal favorite.
Warsaw Citadel - Built in the early 1800s as a fortress, the Warsaw Citadel houses the Katyn Museum. Take a photo at the Citadel for Warsaw sightseeing & what to see in Warsaw.
Mermaid in Old Town Warsaw Square - Snap a photo at this Instagram hotspot. The mermaid is an iconic symbol of Warsaw. See how many mermaids you count throughout the city. *my personal favorite.
Warsaw Citadel - Built in the early 1800s as a fortress, the Warsaw Citadel houses the Katyn Museum. Take a photo at the Citadel for Warsaw sightseeing & what to see in Warsaw.
Powązki Cemetery - Weird, but I love walking around cemeteries; it's humbling & reminds me of my own mortality.
St. John’s Archcathedral in Warsaw - A 14th-century Cathedral.
Basilica of the Holy Cross - A baroque church along the Royal Route.
Gdański Bridge - What to see in Warsaw? Stop by the Gdański Bridge, a steel truss bridge worthy of a look. Don't forget to take a photo. One of the easier things to do in Warsaw. *my personal favorite.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - Located within Piłsudski Square, two soldiers always stand guard at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Tourist spot for photos & what to see in Warsaw.
Gdański Bridge - What to see in Warsaw? Stop by the Gdański Bridge, a steel truss bridge worthy of a look. Don't forget to take a photo. One of the easier things to do in Warsaw. *my personal favorite.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - Located within Piłsudski Square, two soldiers always stand guard at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Tourist spot for photos & what to see in Warsaw.
 |
| Goofing around outside the Neon Museum. Great for Warsaw sightseeing! |
Interesting Things to Do Warsaw: Education & Museums
Art galleries, museums, and many places to experience in this vibrant city. A great place to find something fun and exciting in Downtown Warsaw and more.
Neon Museum - Bzzzzzz. The sound of neon signs remains etched in my brain. Small, but one of many affordable things to do in Warsaw. *my personal favorite.
Warsaw Rising Museum (Warsaw Uprising Museum) - The Warsaw Rising Museum / Warsaw Uprising Museum is a tribute to Warsaw residents who lost their lives fighting for Poland's independence.
Warsaw Rising Museum (Warsaw Uprising Museum) - The Warsaw Rising Museum / Warsaw Uprising Museum is a tribute to Warsaw residents who lost their lives fighting for Poland's independence.
Royal Łazienki Museum - The Royal Łazienki consists of The Palace on the Isle, The Old Orangery (housing the Royal Sculpture Gallery), as well as Royal Łazienki gardens: the Royal Garden, the Romantic Garden, the Modernist Garden, Chinese Garden. & the Deckchair Leisure Zone. Don't forget Łazienki Park.
National Museum in Warsaw - The National Museum in Warsaw contains over 800,000 pieces of art. Temporary exhibitions on rotation as well as permanent galleries (Faras Gallery, Gallery of Medieval Art, Gallery of Old Masters, Gallery of 19th Century Art, Gallery of 20th and 21st Century Art, Gallery of Polish Design).
POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews - The Core Exhibition at POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket covers 1,000 years of Polish-Jewish history, paintings, artifacts, & culture with interactive installations, video projections, & reconstructions. Buy your tickets to POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket.
Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów - Why not visit the Wilanów Palace Baroque royal residence as part of your Warsaw sights adventure? Points of interest include the intricate interior of The White Hall, the Statue of Jan III Sobieski, the King's Library, the Queen's Bedroom, the Wilanów Garden, Morysin Nature Reserve, & quite a lot more. Buy tickets to skip the Line Wilanów Palace and Gardens Guided Tour.
Heritage Interpretation Centre - The Heritage Interpretation Center is the starting point of the Cultural Route of Old Town Cellars.
Additional travel reading: Things to do in Oslo: Norway.
Heritage Interpretation Centre - The Heritage Interpretation Center is the starting point of the Cultural Route of Old Town Cellars.
Additional travel reading: Things to do in Oslo: Norway.
 |
| Warsaw's Palace of Culture and Science at night. |
Palace of Culture and Science - When my bus arrived in the city of Warsaw at 12 A.M., I spotted the towering Palace of Culture and Science straight away. What to do in Warsaw? The Palace houses a number of theaters, museums, restaurants, cafes, an observation deck, so you could spend all day here! One of the top tourist attractions in Poland.
Praga Museum of Warsaw (Muzeum Warszawskiej Pragi) - Located on Warsaw's right bank, the Praga Museum of Warsaw possesses both core & temporary exhibitions showcasing the story of Praga.
Pawiak Prison Museum - What to see in Warsaw if you're a history buff? The Pawiak Prison Museum used to be a prison from 1835 to 1944 when the Germans blew up nearly the entire prison complex. The museum is positioned in the surviving prison blocks VII & VIII.
Polish Army Museum (Muzeum Wojska Polskiego w Warszawie) - The permanent exhibit at the museum covers Polish military history starting from the 10th century up until the end of World War II.
Copernicus Science Centre - If you need ideas on what to do in Warsaw, spend the day browsing one of 400 exhibits at Copernicus Science Centre / Copernicus Science Center. including a play inside the Robotic Theatre or activities at the Minilabs laboratory. This science museum is one of the best things to do in Warsaw with kids & families!
 |
| Looking for what to see in Warsaw? Check out the University of Warsaw! |
Heavens of Copernicus Planetarium - Part of the Copernicus Science Centre, Heavens of Copernicus Planetarium allows tourists & residents to enjoy laser shows, live shows, & films about the planet.
PGE Narodowy Stadium - Built for the European Football Championship in 2012, PGE Narodowy Stadium hosts football (soccer) & other sporting events as well as concerts for big-names like The Rolling Stones & Madonna.
Legia Warsaw Marshal Józef Piłsudski Municipal Stadium - Football (soccer) team, Legia Poland, plays their home games at the Legia Warsaw Marshal Józef Piłsudski Municipal Stadium. Legia & PGE Narodowy Stadium are perfect things to do in Warsaw for sports fans.
Fotoplastikon Warszawski - Museum visitors can watch rotating stereoscopic images. They even host lessons about 20th-century Warsaw history.
History Meeting House - History Meeting House stands as the city of Warsaw’s municipal institution of culture, promoting history the history of the capital city through organized exhibitions, discussions, workshops, & other cool things to do in Warsaw.
History Meeting House - History Meeting House stands as the city of Warsaw’s municipal institution of culture, promoting history the history of the capital city through organized exhibitions, discussions, workshops, & other cool things to do in Warsaw.
Warsaw Zoological Garden - Add the Warsaw Zoological Garden to your list of things to do in Warsaw with children & many tourist attractions in Poland.
 |
| Lokal Vegan Bistro has delicious vegan spins on authentic Polish dishes. |
Things to Do in the City of Warsaw: Polish Food & Drinks
Hala Koszyki - A food hall with restaurant, grocery, & culinary options.To Lubie (To Lubię) - a small, sweet cafe located in Warsaw's Old Town. Don't leave without trying their Dominican mead. *my personal favorite.
Bar Prasowy (Press Bar) - A classic take on a Polish classic, the milk bar. Milk bars come from the Communist area as a way to make affordable food available to working people.
Bar Gdański (Gdańsk Bar) - Another milk bar.
Lokal Vegan Bistro - Incredible vegan alternatives to some of Poland's most popular authentic dishes. I'm drooling just thinking about the meal I had. *my personal favorite.
You can also opt for a Warsaw food tour.
Things to Do in Warsaw: Shopping
Złote TarasyArkadia Shopping Mall
Galeria Mokotów
Mokotowska shopping street
Mysia street
Szpitalna street
 |
| What to see when you visit Warsaw: Another mermaid. There are mermaids all over the city. |
Did I forget anything? Leave me a comment! But don't bust my chops - there is a ridiculous amount of things to do in Warsaw. You'll never have to wonder what to do in Warsaw. There's an endless amount!
After sharing my Warsaw Poland experience with my Instagram family, one of my followers messaged me to say, "I was talking to my boyfriend about what you shared about Warsaw & we are adding to the list of places in Europe we would like to go someday."
It's truly the biggest compliment that is something I experienced & shared from my own perspective influence someone that they wanted to add it to their own list. I feel like I should mention that this type of feedback is so important & heartwarming & seriously makes me smile. Your message or comment can really make a difference!
 |
| What to do in Warsaw: Look out on Old Town Warsaw Square from Warszawa Taras Widokowy. |
A City with Heart: Warsaw's Charm
The weather may range depending on the season, but travelers should always be able to find good accommodation. There are sightseeing options for families, couples, solo travelers, & travel influencers alike. The city's charm comes in its mix of historical landmarks, parks, walking along the modern streets, enjoying every morsel of food, sipping coffee, and its beauty.
Catch a concert or learn something at a museum. If you made it all the way to the end of this blog post then you know there's an endless amount of things to do in Warsaw, Poland. You can spend days in Warsaw sightseeing as a travel influencer, a tourist, or if traveling with your friends or family or children! Enjoy your trip to Warsaw.
Save this post on Pinterest to refer back to later.
Milan Highlights
Milan is known as a fashion mecca, but what are some of the other best known Milan highlights? Located in northern Italy, Milano City is more than a buzzing tourist metropolis. Some of Milan's most well-known points of interest include the Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, Navigli River, Milan canals, & the Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Consult this Milan highlights list during your travels for classic things to do in Milano city as well as some modern, fun options.
About Carmen
I'm a travel influencer who has worked with tourism boards such as Visit El Paso & the French Ministry of Agriculture. Take a look at my Press + Media page! I hadn't been to Italy since 2010, so my Milan travels were a well-needed reminder of the Italian way of life. The city is a gastronomic hub filled with delicious food (think salted pistachio gelato & fluffy pizza dough). Scroll down to see my Milan highlights. |
| The vertical garden forest known as Appartamento Bosco Verticale in Milano City. |
Appartamento Bosco Verticale (Vertical Gardens)
Breathe in a bit of greenery at the Appartamento Bosco Verticale. This vertical garden/vertical forest is a sustainable residential building meant to absorb CO2 & dust particles while producing oxygen. The Appartamento Bosco Verticale towers are visually pleasing with an array of plants & trees strategically placed throughout the building. *Appartamento Bosco Verticale is one of my personal favorite Milan highlights.The Last Supper
Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting, The Last Supper, depicts Jesus & his disciples the moment he announces that one of them will betray him by sunrise. The scene shows the men shocked as they begin to gossip amongst themselves. Find The Last Supper in the refectory (Cenacolo) at Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While this might be a popular choice for your Milan travels, you must secure your tickets months in advance during the open pre-sale dates.
 |
| Duomo di Milano with a photobomb from a flying pigeon. |
Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is obviously a must-see part of the Milan highlights. You can buy tickets to go inside & check out the impressive Milano city views from the rooftop. Beware: the exterior of the Duomo is crawling with tourists, pigeons, & people trying to sell you things (bracelets & pigeon feed). You'll see every Instagram travel influencer posing in front of the Duomo. Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time! |
| Sipping on Pico Brew by Navigli at sunset in Milan, Italy. For a similar floral scrunchie, click here. |
Navigli
The views of Milan canals & homes make Navigli another tourist spot but for good reason. You might hear Milano Navigli referred to as a district, neighborhood, area, zone, but it's all the same place. Take a stroll around the canal, people-watch, grab a sunset beer at PicoBrew. One downside is congestion due to tourist pedestrian foot traffic. You can even take a Navigli canal cruise. *Milano Navigli is one of my personal favorite Milan highlights.
Monumental Cemetery Milan should be considered a free art museum because it's majestic, grand, thought-provoking, serene. Oh & there are literal masterpieces & works of art. No big deal. Walk through the massive cemetery as you observe the tombs, sculptures, mosaics, & even the crematorium.
 |
| Taking a selfie in the reflection at Fondazione Prada. |
Fondazione Prada
If you're an art museum lover like me, then you must visit Fondazione Prada, a museum with temporary exhibitions, permanent projects, performing art projects, photography exhibitions, cinema virtual reality installations, & a heck of a lot more. You could spend an entire day at Fondazione Prada or at least a half-day. Of course, you can go faster if you're on a time crunch. I oohed & aahed for Wes Anderson & Juman Malouf's exhibition project “Il sarcofago di Spitzmaus e altri tesori” (Spitzmaus Mummy in a Coffin and Other Treasures), available 20 Sep 2019 through 13 Jan 2020.
Yes, I'm talking about Wes Anderson the filmmaker of Moonrise Kingdom, The Darjeeling Limited, The Grand Budapest Hotel, & many more. I felt amused walking through the exhibition knowing that Wes Anderson's vibrant perspective came into play.
 |
| The aesthetically-pleasing Wes Anderson's Bar Luce at Fondazione Prada. |
Bar Luce
Designed by Wes Anderson (yes, that Wes Anderson) in 2015 & located within Fondazione Prada, Bar Luce is a hot spot for the food bloggers & travel influencers. The pastel eatery was crowded while I was there; a consistent line to order, a mishmash of people running to hand their order to the food makers, limited seating. One person saved a seat for a "friend" who never arrived while we were there. Fred & I found a little table to stand at while we ate our sandwiches. All this can be avoided if you opt for table service. Note: Bar Luce is closed on Tuesdays. |
| A sculpture at Cimitero Monumentale di Milano (Monumental Cemetery). That lens flare though. |
Cimitero Monumentale di Milano (Monumental Cemetery)
Monumental Cemetery Milan should be considered a free art museum because it's majestic, grand, thought-provoking, serene. Oh & there are literal masterpieces & works of art. No big deal. Walk through the massive cemetery as you observe the tombs, sculptures, mosaics, & even the crematorium.Castello Sforzesco (Sforzesco Castle)
I quite enjoyed the remarkable brick facade of Castello Sforzesco but you can admire other pieces of the architecture such as the moats, the Filarete Tower, the Bona Tower, Carmine & Santo Spirito Towers, Castellana and Falconiera Towers, battlements, courtyards, & more. |
| Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center, a fancy mall in Milan. |
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (Shopping Center)
Whether you have plans to shop til you drop or not, add Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to your Milan highlights list simply for its beauty. The 150+-year-old shopping mall stirs with people, tourists taking photos spinning on the bull ball mosaic, patrons shopping for their next memento, or someone like me — a wanderer finding my way through Milano City. |
| Maurizio Cattelan's Middle finger sculpture titled, L.O.V.E. |
L.O.V.E by Maurizio Cattelan (Middle Finger Sculpture)
The famous middle finger sculpture is said to be a big eff you to the banking industry. Add this to your city sightseeing Milan list; it's free & out in the open. It's off the beaten path & you can get an edgy photo while you're at it. |
| Salted pistachio gelato & chocolate gelato in a waffle cone from Milan, Italy. |
Food Highlights: Gelato & Pizza
There are many Milan highlights. My own Milan travels showed me the city's culinary opportunity. How can I forget those decadent, fluffy pizza crusts? Each pizza felt like a carefully crafted work of art. My favorite gelato was the 1 scoop of 7 layers of pistachio & 1 scoop of 7 layers of chocolate. Absolutely divine.Where Am I Going After Milan?
After my Milan travels I'm heading to Bergamo, Italy. Of course, there's the curious few who maybe wonder what's after Bergamo? Well, you're the first to know. After Milan, Italy I fly to Warsaw, Poland! I used my own tips to save money on flights to find the cheapest airline tickets available.Hotels in Milan
If you're on the hunt for where to stay in Milan, this map will show you all the available options. Put in the length of your stay & see what accommodations are available. It's that easy.Tourist Information
Official tourism website of Milan, Italy: TurismoMilano
Official tourism website of Bergamo, Italy: Visit Bergamo
Official tourist website of the capital of Poland: Fall in Love with Warsaw
Official tourism website of Bergamo, Italy: Visit Bergamo
Official tourist website of the capital of Poland: Fall in Love with Warsaw
 |
| Fondazione Prada in Milan, Italy |
Pin an image on Pinterest!
Best Places to Stay in Porto, Portugal
Porto sounds like seagulls flying overhead. Porto sounds like water lapping as you sit by the Douro River. Porto sounds like a group of Portuguese middle-aged women chatting to each other on the bus. Porto sounds like car tires clickety clacketing as it drives across cobblestone.
Booking.com
After booking my flight from La Rochelle, France, I started to research where to stay in Porto, Portugal. I wanted to know the good, bad, & the ugly with the ultimate goal of finding the best places to stay in Porto. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, affordable hotels, or even Airbnbs, you'll enjoy exploring the seaside city. The best places to stay in Porto are within your fingertips!
 |
| The view of Porto, Portugal & the Douro Valley. Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel is the yellow building. This is one of the best places to stay in Porto as far as location! |
About Carmen
Hi, bonjour, bom dia. My name is Carmen. What do I know about travel? I’ve visited 22 countries. I’ve worked as a content producer for TripSavvy, the #4 largest site in the ad-supported Travel Information category. As a blogging coaching & social media consultant, some of my clients are travel influencers, travel companies, tourism boards, & more. Learn more about my blogging & career background. Keep reading to discover the best places to stay in Porto.
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click &/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or my social media platforms, I may make a small commission from that click &/or purchase. It's at no additional cost to you! Learn more about my disclosure.
 |
| Hanging out on the balcony of our Airbnb in Porto, Portugal. |
Booking.com
Create a list of 10 or more things to do in Porto. How far are you from those things? Ideally, I try to be within a 30-minute transportation ride away from the bulk of my to-do list/what I want to do; the occasional outlier is fine. Ultimately, you don’t want to be commuting for an hour each way every day- that’s a waste of precious time.
Planning Your Trip to Porto
If you’re considering where to stay in Porto, Portugal, first ponder about what you want to do while you’re visiting. Porto tourism continues to grow, so there may be some crowds depending on the time of year.Create a list of 10 or more things to do in Porto. How far are you from those things? Ideally, I try to be within a 30-minute transportation ride away from the bulk of my to-do list/what I want to do; the occasional outlier is fine. Ultimately, you don’t want to be commuting for an hour each way every day- that’s a waste of precious time.
What Are Some of the Best Places to Stay in Porto?
Decide if you’re more of a hotel person or an Airbnb person. Porto tourism means there are plenty of choices. I have options for both, so read them all or scroll down to find what you’re looking for. Based on actual reviews, these are some of the top-rated, best places to stay in Porto. |
| Homes with a view of the Douro River. |
Best Hotels to Stay in Porto
These are some of the top-rated hotels throughout the city of Porto, according to Google reviews, TripAdvisor reviews, and more. Take a look at each hotel & decide where to stay in Porto, Portugal.
InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas – Stare at the beautifully restored interiors. InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas overlooks Liberdade Square. You can find the famous Livraria Lello bookstore & São Bento station within a close walk of the hotel.
Pestana Palácio do Freixo, Pousada & National Monument – Pestana Palácio do Freixo has gorgeous views overlooking the Douro River. The 18th-century palace was built by Nicolau Nasoni. Pestana Palácio do Freixo is part of the "The Leading Hotels of the World." This is easily one of the best places to stay in Porto.
Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa – Reviews show that past Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa guests appreciate the hospitality, the rooms, & the amenities (sauna, fitness center, Wi-Fi) but felt as though it might be out of the way for the average tourist. It's modern decor & facilities make it a popular choice.
Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel – Eat breakfast with waterfront views of the Douro River at Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel - World Heritage Site. The Pestana hotel building & location date back to the 16th century. This is a seriously stunning area if you're wondering where to stay in Porto, Portugal!
Infante Sagres – The Hotel Infante Sagres is a historic luxury hotel. It underwent renovation & reopened in April 2018. Notable decorative features of the Infante Sagres include ironwork, carved wood detail, & stained glass panels.
Spot Apartments Porto – The hip, cool rooms at Spot Apartments Porto feel homey, unlike your a boring, sterile hotel room. Spot Apartments Porto guests seem to love the location, clean and spacious apartment, & the friendly staff.
There are so many hotels & accommodations in the area. Scroll down to search the map to find where to stay in Porto, Portugal.
InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas – Stare at the beautifully restored interiors. InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas overlooks Liberdade Square. You can find the famous Livraria Lello bookstore & São Bento station within a close walk of the hotel.
Pestana Palácio do Freixo, Pousada & National Monument – Pestana Palácio do Freixo has gorgeous views overlooking the Douro River. The 18th-century palace was built by Nicolau Nasoni. Pestana Palácio do Freixo is part of the "The Leading Hotels of the World." This is easily one of the best places to stay in Porto.
Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa – Reviews show that past Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa guests appreciate the hospitality, the rooms, & the amenities (sauna, fitness center, Wi-Fi) but felt as though it might be out of the way for the average tourist. It's modern decor & facilities make it a popular choice.
Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel – Eat breakfast with waterfront views of the Douro River at Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel - World Heritage Site. The Pestana hotel building & location date back to the 16th century. This is a seriously stunning area if you're wondering where to stay in Porto, Portugal!
Infante Sagres – The Hotel Infante Sagres is a historic luxury hotel. It underwent renovation & reopened in April 2018. Notable decorative features of the Infante Sagres include ironwork, carved wood detail, & stained glass panels.
Spot Apartments Porto – The hip, cool rooms at Spot Apartments Porto feel homey, unlike your a boring, sterile hotel room. Spot Apartments Porto guests seem to love the location, clean and spacious apartment, & the friendly staff.
There are so many hotels & accommodations in the area. Scroll down to search the map to find where to stay in Porto, Portugal.
 |
| Blue & white azulejo tiles in Porto - if you look closely, these are all individually painted tiles! |
Search for Hotels in Porto
Search for where to stay in Porto, Portugal with this handy dandy map. Type in the date of your travel & it'll give you a list of options.
Consult my guide on how to save hundreds of dollars on flight tickets. I paid $350 for roundtrip tickets to London & $420 for roundtrip tickets to Paris! Browse through these tips on how to eat on a budget while traveling abroad without depriving yourself. Scroll down & read comments from readers to learn their tips too.
Visit Porto & the North - News, events, things to do, & information on Porto & the area north of Porto.
Visit Porto - Information on Porto Card transportation, trip planning, entertainment in Porto.
 |
| Best places to stay in Porto, Portugal - Hotels, Airbnbs, & other accommodations. |
Airbnb Accommodations
Sign up for Airbnb with my link & get $40 off your booking. That could be a free night's stay somewhere! I stayed in Airbnbs in Amsterdam, Netherlands; Oslo, Norway; Tijuana, Mexico, & manyyyyy more cities/countries.Other Sources of Information on Porto
Visit Portugal - Information on Porto tourism & Portugal.Visit Porto & the North - News, events, things to do, & information on Porto & the area north of Porto.
Visit Porto - Information on Porto Card transportation, trip planning, entertainment in Porto.
Do you prefer hotels or Airbnbs? Where do you think are the best places to stay in Porto?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.png)
