Category: Destination Guides

If there’s one thing that tops most people’s must-do list while in Bruges, it’s climbing the Belfry of Bruges. And it made it to my list twice; once for the amazing panoramic views of Bruges and again because it’s been a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The Belfry Tower of Bruges, also known as the Belfort, is a medieval bell tower located in the heart of Bruges, Belgium. It’s easily one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city, taking pride of place in the central Grote Markt. It appears on many people’s must-see lists while in Bruges, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Bruges.

Thanks to the history of the tower that dates back to the 13th century, the Belfry Tower of Bruges was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 as part of the “Historic Centre of Bruges” listing. These days, visitors can climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry Tower to soak up the stunning views of the city.

History of the Belfry of Bruges

There’s a ton of interesting history to the Belfry of Bruges, and considering the fact it’s in the centre of a historic city you would expect nothing less. The 83-metre high building was first built in the market square, Grote Markt, around 1240. After a devastating fire just 40 years later, the tower had to be rebuilt.

Over time, the Belfry Tower has slowly grown due to the extensions and additions, which also explains the varying architectural styles. Sadly, due to its impressive height, the Belfry Tower has been the victim of several lightning strikes and fires, but has been repeatedly rebuilt.

The bells in the tower used to dictate life to the people of Bruges – it would ring to signal the start of the working day, lunch time, the end of the working day, the closing of the city gates and even things like fires and important political or social events. The number of bells has grown over the years, and there are now a total of 47 bells which play various tunes throughout the day.

Climbing the Belfry Tower

Climbing the Belfry of Bruges is a popular activity for visitors to the city, and one that offers stunning panoramic views once the final steps have been conquered.

With a total of 366 steps to the top of the Belfry Tower, it’s not for the faint hearted. But fear not, there are places to stop on the way up, with small exhibition areas giving an insight into the history of the tower and the growing number of bells and the all essential time to catch your breath.

Starting the tower climb, the stairs are very manageable and it’s easy to pass other people ascending or descending. With the different architectural styles of the tower come different styles of stairs, and the last section is the one that needs noting.

This was very likely not a building they thought would be open to the public, and the last stairway is evidence of that. Narrow, wooden, spiral stairs guide you through the last section before reaching the top, and it’s really not fun to pass someone on these stairs.

There is a rope to hold on to, and it’s not a huge amount of steps before you’re back at a comfortable descent, but for anyone scared of small spaces or falling down the stairs…probably best to skip that last section.

The views from the top are absolutely worth the climb, with panoramic stunning views of Bruges on offer for those who conquer the 366 steps. If you’re not a fan of heights or don’t feel like tackling the last spiral staircase, the views on the way up are just as good and still worth making the climb.

Overall, climbing the Belfry Tower of Bruges is a unique and memorable experience that should not be missed if you’re visiting the city!

I was told by everyone that I simply had to climb the Belfry Tower! Knowing there’d be places to stop on the way up, I wasn’t too concerned about having to tackle the 366 steps. The small exhibition/museum areas on the ascent were a great opportunity to catch my breath while learning about the tower and Bruges’ history.

I’m a sucker for a good view, and every window I passed on the way up seemed to spur me on to see just how much better it could really be the higher I went. The climb itself wasn’t too strenuous, but the last staircase was definitely my least favourite part. The thought was ever present that just one misplacement of a foot would send me and many others tumbling, and I absolutely threw away any regard for personal space and focused on having something to hold onto, whether that was the rope handle or other people!

The view from the tower

I’m not really scared of heights, but I definitely felt my legs getting a bit wobbly the higher we got, and as much as I kept trying to tell myself I wasn’t that high, my brain obviously wasn’t passing on the message to my legs! As soon as we got to the top, I was so glad I’d made the climb – the views are amazing, and you can see for miles. Although it wasn’t very windy at ground level, the wind at the top was intense and certainly…refreshing.

The room at the very top of the Belfry Tower is home to the carillon, which plays the songs every fifteen minutes to the city. The songs are changed every couple of years, but it’s fun to try and guess the tunes. As the songs are played frequently, chances are that they’ll be playing at least once as you ascend. If you time it right – or in some people’s opinion wrong… – you’ll be at the top while the bells are chiming and it’s crazy levels of loud! So interesting to see it all in motion though.

Is it worth the climb?

Climbing the Belfry Tower is one of the best ways to get those panoramic views of Bruges. For this reason alone, I’d say it’s worth the effort to climb.

Although the tower does have 366 steps to get to the top, there are places to stop along the way to take a rest and learn a bit more about the history of the tower. The views are great but it’s also so interesting to see how the Belfry Tower has played a key part in the life of the small city since the 1200s.

The only thing that would possibly put me off is how narrow it gets near the top, but a little bit of patience and an opportunity to get friendly with people as you pass will get you through the last few steps to the very top where you can soak up the stunning views of Bruges.

Musea Brugge cards can be purchased in advance, and offer free admission to multiple sights across the city – a great way to save money if you’re visiting other museums and churches on your trip.

How Accessible is the Belfry Tower in Bruges?

The area surrounding the Belfry Tower is fairly accessible, with flat, sometimes cobblestoned, pavements in the square and surrounding streets. In that regard, anyone with mobility issues can still appreciate the view of the tower from the outside, and enjoy the bells that ring out frequently across the city.

In terms of visiting inside the tower and reaching the top, this is accessed only by 366 stairs, so not ideal for anyone using a wheelchair or unable to climb a large number of stairs. Due to its age, there’s no lift available.

If you suffer from claustrophobia or a fear of heights, the full climb may not be the most fun experience for you. While the entire climb is enclosed, it does get very narrow at the top and ideally would be just one way access but is in fact two way. The staircases vary in design on the way up, and while most of it is very comfortable to climb and pass people, the last section is a narrow, spiral staircase.

Don’t be fully put off though, you could still enjoy most of the climb and the exhibition spaces on the way up. Plus, the views are spectacular even if you don’t go all the way to the top.

Top tips

• I visited in the winter and it wasn’t that busy. There is a limit to how many people can be in the tower at a time (thankfully!) so there may be a queue in peak seasons. Tickets can be prebooked to secure your slot.
• There aren’t any lockers at the bottom, so whatever you’ve got on you, be prepared to carry it up the tower. And bear in mind it gets really narrow at the top…
• Last entry time is 1 hour before closing.

There’s nothing quite like exploring a city with the sun shining on your face, the scent of sun cream in the air and the prospect of picnics in a park. Summer trips are ideal for a lot of people, but there are a few reasons why the risk of winter rain completely outweighs the glorious sunshine, and makes Europe a better place to visit in the colder months.

Here’s a slight disclaimer: I am most definitely a summer person. I love the warmth, the sunshine and being able to walk around in sandals. But even I have been convinced that there really is something special about European winter city breaks, and so these are just 9 of the reasons that convince me to travel to Europe in the winter, and why it’s the best time for European travels with minimal crowds!

Reasons to Visit Europe in Winter
Crisp Blue Winter Skies

Sure, the weather in winter is a bit more hit and miss than in the summer. But there’s just something about those crisp blue winter skies that makes me so happy. And if you’ve not got the blue skies, those insta filters work wonders on cloudy backdrops!

Lower Travel Costs

As the days get shorter and the chill starts to set in, most people want to spend the days inside tucked up by a warm fireplace, a hot chocolate in hand topped with marshmallows. So the holiday companies and airlines need to give some incentive to get people to use their flights, hotels, services etc. And thankfully for us, this usually comes in the way of cheap deals. If this doesn’t make it the best time for Europe city breaks I don’t know what does! I always try to travel when the weather is starting to turn, purely so I don’t have to pay the premium prices that summer carries.

Other Tourists…or Lack of!

Did someone say queue? I may be British, but if there’s one thing I hate more than people who don’t queue properly, it’s the actual queue itself. Who wants to spend half their time on a city break queuing up to see something? Less other tourists means less queues, way less crowding in museums and attractions, and clearer shots for me to snap a photo or two. I’ve heard people complain about queueing for ages to visit the Belfry Tower in Bruges – I only saw a few other people the whole time I was in there.

Good Light for Photos

If you are blessed with sunshine on your winter city break, the light is somehow softer than in summer and gives photos a lovely effect. Plus, you don’t have to stay out so late to catch the photographer’s dream – golden hour!

Keep Your Sanity

One holiday a year. Two glorious weeks in the summer to relax and lounge by the pool. As much as I love this, I just cannot spend the other 50 weeks of the year waiting for my next holiday. And I know I’m not alone with this! Younger generations are putting more emphasis on life in the work life balance, and a big part of that is heading out to travel more. If finances allow it, people are far more likely to take more breaks away these days.

While I wouldn’t recommend winter as the best time for Europe beach holidays, it’s so nice to still have a break away from the everyday to look forward to. And thankfully Europe has so many amazing winter destinations that you’re spoilt for choice of where to explore, both beach destinations and cosy winter city breaks.

Comfortable Flights

Granted, a plane seat in the summer is not all that different to a seat in the winter. There’s just one noticeable difference – the other passengers. Because less people travel in winter, there are less people on the planes, and therefore more available seats. While this might not make much difference to some – you do only need one seat on the plane after all – it makes a difference to me.

I have frequently had a whole row to myself when travelling in winter, which meant I could sit next to the window without worrying I’d have to clamber over some poor soul in a bid to get to the loo, and I could spread out a bit. Being able to put stuff on the spare seat is such a god send too, because I hate having to rummage in my bag to find things.

There’s also the perk that a lot of things in Europe are within a quick plane or train ride of each other so you can fit a lot in even if you have to travel between cities.

Local Food

While the local food is usually available all year round, there’s nothing quite like tucking into a hearty goulash near a roaring fireplace in the middle of winter. Some food just begs to be eaten on a cold winters day! And I wouldn’t want to eat the carbalicious grub in the summer, because I wouldn’t have my lovely winter coat to hide behind when I’ve eaten a touch too much. And let’s be honest, half of a trip abroad is trying the food, right?

Winter Accessories

Scarf, hat, gloves – the essentials! While I do hate being cold, I love being able to wear my hat and scarf and being all cosy. And how much cuter does everyone look when they’ve got their winter accessories on?

Who even needs to feel their toes anyway…

Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets were what first drew me to visit Europe in the winter, and they are the main reason I try to return each year. There’s enough festive cheer to get even the biggest grinch into the Christmas spirit. Teamed up with delicious and cheap food, drinks and ice skating, there’s not much more you could want.

And there really is something special about standing in the snow, with a warm glühwein in your hands, watching people whizz past on the ice skating rink. Or, you know, slowing shuffling as they hold on to the side.

As the Christmas markets are only on in the winter, it definitely is the best time for Europe city breaks if you want to visit a market or two. Or three, four, five…

Day trips are a traveller’s dream, the ability to get a taste of another place while visiting a city…what’s not to love? If you’re visiting Lisbon or the south of Portugal, taking the time to visit Évora on a day trip from Lisbon is a great choice!

While it may be a compact city with a population of about 55,000 people, it still attracts plenty of tourists due to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture. It’s not a huge distance from Lisbon to Évora, making a day trip to Évora perfectly accessible.

Where is Évora?

Évora is a city in southern Portugal, in the Alentejo region. It’s located about 140km (87 miles) east of Lisbon and 80 km (50 miles) west of the Spanish border and is the capital of the wider Évora District.

Top Things to Do in Évora on a Day Trip

If you’re spending a day in Évora, these are the top 5 things you should be sure to include in your sightseeing. They’re located across the city, but all within walking distance of each other and the journey between them allows you to see the charming white building-lined streets that fill the rest of the city.

Depending how long you spend at those places, you might find you have time to see more and you’re in luck, there’s plenty of things to do and see in Évora to fill your day.

Roman Temple of Évora – Templo Romano de Évora
Dating back to the 1st century AD, this is one of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. It takes pride of place in the middle of the square, and although visitors shouldn’t climb it, you can walk around the and see the temple remains for free.

The Roman Temple was dedicated to Diana, the goddess of hunting, when it was built. Just next to the temple are Jardim Diana, a small, tranquil place offering visitors a green space to relax or check out the views of the surrounding area.

Cathedral of Évora – Sé de Évora
This cathedral is one of the most important Gothic structures in Portugal. It was built between the 13th and 14th centuries and is decked out with beautiful stained glass windows.

While the cathedral is an impressive and historic structure, the rooftop is exceptionally noteworthy. To reach it, you climb a narrow single file staircase which is two way despite not being wide enough to comfortably allow people to pass each other. Stepping out on the roof is a mixture of relief at not having to navigate the stairs anymore and awe at the stunning panoramic views of Évora.

Disclaimer: I wouldn’t take children or clumsy people to the roof. There are some parts where you can literally just walk off the edge of the roof.

Chapel of Bones – Capela dos Ossos
Located just next door to the impressive Igreja de São Francisco, the Chapel of Bones dates back to the 16th Century and while it initially seems a pretty dark place to visit, the history and symbolism of the place is actually very interesting.

Capela dos Ossos gets its name from literally being a chapel of bones. The walls and pillars of the chapel are covered in human bones and skulls, all displayed in a very decorative manner. It’s an interesting sight to see, although not a place that everyone would enjoy a visit to.

The chapel came into existence in the 1500’s due to a concern over how many local cemeteries there were. The local monks decided that to be able to save land space while still honouring those who were buried there, they’d move the bones and display them in the chapel. They believed it would also serve as a reminder to the residents of Évora, which was fairly wealthy at that time, the real values in life and not to be too materialistic.

As you leave the chapel, be sure to have a look at the quote written above the door.
Nós ossos que aqui estamos, pelos vossos esperamos which translates as we bones that are here, waiting for yours.

Giraldo Square – Praça do Giraldo
Praça do Giraldo is the main square in Évora, and is named after Geraldo Geraldes. He was considered a hero in his day, saving the region from the Moorish invasion. To thank him for his great deed, King Afonso Henriques made him a governor of the region and the square was subsequently named after him when it was built in the 16th century, 400 years after Geraldo Geraldes’ success.

It’s a great central location, and all roads in Évora lead to Giraldo Square so it really is the heart of the city. There are a number of notable buildings surrounding the square, including the Bank of Portugal and the Santo Antão Church which was built just before the square itself.

There are also a number of shops and cafes in Praça do Giraldo, and the seating stretches out into the square itself, perfect for a bit of people watching! The arches by the shops are known as the Medieval Arches, and are said to have been incorporated into the building to save passing pedestrians from whatever was being thrown out of the windows above before plumbing was installed in houses. Yep, toilet worthy content. These days it’s not such a worry, but the arches provide the perfect cover when it rains, and are also interestingly decorated so worth checking out.

And of course, we can’t visit Praça do Giraldo without seeing the impressive marble fountain taking pride of place near the church. It’s topped with a crown, and has eight water spouts, symbolising each of the roads that lead to the square.

Évora Public Gardens – Jardim Público de Évora
There are a number of green spaces in Évora, but Jardim Público de Évora, or Evora Public Garden, is one of the largest and most centrally located for visiting on a day trip to Évora.

The park was designed by the Italian architect José Cinatti in the 19th century and is home to a variety of trees, flowers, and plants, including many species that were brought to Portugal from other parts of the world. As you wander through the park, you’ll find a number of fountains, ponds, and sculptures throughout.

The Évora Public Garden is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It’s a great place to take a break from the sightseeing, relax and enjoy the outdoors, and is also a popular spot for picnics, concerts, and other events. There’s a cafe to grab a drink, and if you’ve just been to the Chapel of Bones it’s just next door and perfect for a moment of reflection.

Within the park you’ll find the Palácio de Dom Manuel, a former royal palace that now houses a museum. Just behind the old palace, are the Ruínas Fingidas, a set of fake ruins that were created in the 19th century. They look very convincing, but the name literally translates as fake ruins. Fun to visit regardless!

Jardim Público de Évora is open from sunrise to sunset, and it’s free to go in and explore.

Extras to Fit in if There’s Time

If you’ve got spare time, fear not because there are plenty of other things to do in and around Évora.

Almendres Cromlech
Fans of, for want of a better phrase, really old stuff, will enjoy the rock formations that can be found near the city. You’ll likely want to hire a car to get out there as it’s a 25-30 minute drive out and public transport doesn’t cover the area, or you can join a guided tour to venture out to the sites.

The largest and most popular rock formation is Almendres Cromlech, a megalithic structure thought to be one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 6BC. It’s a short walk from the car park to the structure, where visitors can admire the varying heights of the ~95 stone blocks, some with carvings, others with some kind of decoration on them.

There’s also a lone megalith about 30 minutes walk away, Menhir dos Almendres, that stands about 4.5m tall. Viewed on its own it is just a large stone, but when seen from above with the rest of Almendres Cromlech it becomes clear that they were intentionally placed as such as they line up with sunrise on the summer solstice.

Spa Time!
If you’re not so into the rocks and prefer instead to indulge in a spa session, then the central spa in Évora to check out is In Acqua Veritas. It’s highly rated, and within walking distance of the central Praca do Giraldo.

What to Eat

If you have time to stop for lunch or dinner, be sure to scout out one of the restaurants in the side streets. They’re often small, charming and offer delicious Portuguese food.

Some dishes to keep an eye out to sample are:

• Cataplana – a fish stew, often made with clams, named for the traditional dish used to cook the stew. In a country known for great seafood, this is a popular dish.
• Arroz de pato – duck with rice, this is a dish found all over Portugal but is said to have originated from Alentejo region which Évora sits in.
• Porco a Alentejana – pork and clams in a delicious white wine sauce, commonly found in the south of Portugal and originating from the Alentejo region too.
• Pork in red wine and honey – I’ve no idea what this is called in Portugal, but I had it at a small restaurant just off Giraldo Square and it’s one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten!
• Francesinha – a meaty sandwich topped with cheese and an egg in a rich beer sauce. Hearty, very filling and popular with both locals and visitors. The francesinha is traditionally from the north of Portugal, but if you’re only visiting the south and this is your chance to try one, go for it!
• Alentejo wine – ok, not a dish to sample but when in Évora, right? Portugal is known worldwide for its amazing wine production, and the wines that come from the Alentejo region are worthy of sampling. In fact, you can even take a wine sampling tour to a nearby town!

How to Get to Évora

If you’re coming to Évora on a day trip from Lisbon, the easiest way to travel by public transport is by train. It’s about 1hr 20 minutes from Lisbon to Évora by train, and tickets can be bought online directly from the train company website (discounts available if bought a week in advance, priced from €7,50 one way). Don’t worry, it’s easy to navigate and available in English.

From Évora train station to the city centre it’s about 15 minutes to walk, or 5 minutes in a taxi.

If you’d prefer to get the bus from Lisbon to Évora, it’s a journey of about 1hr 45 minutes, and can cost from €4,00 one way.

How to Get Around Évora

Exploring by foot is the easiest way to get around Évora, it really is a compact city. However, it’s a typically Portuguese city: hilly! Add that to the cobble stones and it might not be the best way for anyone with mobility issues. While some areas are pedestrian access only, you’ll also be able to jump on one of the small city buses – from Mon – Fri and Saturday AM – or grab a taxi. It’s not worth hiring a car for the time you’ll be in Évora unless you’d like to venture out to some of the sights that aren’t covered by public transport.

Where to Stay

Évora is an easy day trip from Lisbon, but if you’d like to extend your time in the city and really indulge in the slow travel vibe, then there are a few hotels you can check in to. The standard of accommodation in Évora is high, and you’ll be spoilt for choice for somewhere nice, comfortable and centrally located.

During my time in Évora I stayed at Evora Olive Hotel. It was a very comfortable stay, located on a quiet
street but within minutes of the centre of the city, and I’d definitely recommend checking it out.

Is One Day in Évora Enough?

It’s definitely possible to get a good feel for Évora in one day, and that’s what makes it the perfect day trip from Lisbon. Of course, if you have more time to spare then Évora is a great place to spend a few days for real slow travel vibes, time to indulge in a bit of spa relaxation or to get back to nature and see a side of Portugal not many get to experience.

Is Évora Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! It’s an easy day trip to Évora from Lisbon and you’ll get to see a city awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, full of history and great food while also still retaining the small city charm that isn’t overrun with tourists. Plus, how often do you get to visit a city with a chapel decorated with bones?

La Mercè Barcelona is the city’s biggest festival taking place once a year, with a range of arts and cultural events spread across the entire city. It’s been an official city holiday for over 150 years, dating back to 1871 when the first La Mercè festival was organised by the local government to observe the Roman Catholic feast day of Our Lady of Mercy.

It’s not surprising then that the celebration of La Mercè has religious origins, honoring the Virgin of Grace (Mare de Déu de la Mercè) who is the patron saint of the archdiocese of Barcelona. If you pass through the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, you may find the basilica dedicated to the Virgin of Grace…she’s a big deal in this city!

To find the Basílica de la Mercè, head to Plaza de la Mercè in the Gothic Quarter close to the harbour.

During the Spanish Civil War, the festival was banned by the Francoist government. However, it was revived after the war, and it has continued to grow in popularity ever since.

These days, La Mercè is the biggest festival in Barcelona. Over 2 million visitors from across the globe join the celebrations each year for a wide variety of events, including traditional Catalan dances, music, theatre, street performances, and fireworks.

When is La Mercè?

The dates for La Mercè vary a little each year, but it always take place for around 5 days towards the end of September. As the festival is to honour the Virgin of Grace, whose feast day is the 24th, the festival always coincides with that date.

La Mercè dates 2024: 20th – 24th September.

Where Does La Mercè Take Place?

The festival covers the city of Barcelona, with multiple stages popping up across the city and other venues being repurposed. Many places have ‘open houses’ which means you can visit inside places that during the rest of the year you may not be able to.

The festival takes place in the streets of Barcelona, on stages that pop up across the city and the expansive Parc de la Ciutadella, in repurposed event venues, in the squares, on the beach…everywhere!

What Happens During La Mercè?

Well, what doesn’t happen might be an easier question to answer!

Highlights not to be missed are:

• Castellers: The infamous human towers! There’s a ton of history behind this tradition, but even without knowing that, it’s fascinating to watch. Head to Placa de Sant Jaume for the big, crowded display from the different neighbourhood teams, each competing to build the tallest towers of people, sometimes 6 people high, before sending a child up to the top and back down again.

Top tip: Arrive in the square at least 30 minutes before the start to be sure to get a space. If you’re able to, grab a spot in the shade near a wall or somewhere you can step up without blocking the view of others. It gets busy, and on a sunny day there’s no chance for shade or relief from the heat of the crowd in the afternoon sun.

Come prepared with drinks, snacks and a hat for shade.

• Correfoc: A fire fun! People dress up as devils and run through the streets with fireworks on sticks, spraying the sparks into the crowd. Giant mascots are paraded through the streets too, with fireworks attached. It’s an exhilarating experience, and some people choose to run through the devils and dance in the sparks.

Long sleeves and trousers are recommended if you want to be close, and sometimes you won’t have a choice as they run close to the crowd. There are family-friendly correfocs run earlier in the evening than the lively adult version.

• Fireworks: It wouldn’t be La Mercè without fireworks! Usually there’ll be a few displays during the festival itself, often at the beach, with a final breathtaking display over Montjuic magic fountain on the last evening. Placa d’Espanya and the road to the fountain fills with people, which in itself if is a sight to see. Definitely one not to be missed!
• Music: It’s a festival of culture, art and music, so it’s only right that music plays out across the city at various stages and at all times of day and night. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find something you like, whether it’s hardcore dance music to rave at or soft classical music to be enjoyed in the park.

• Giants parade: Probably one more for the families but as an adult, I also enjoy seeing the giant figures being paraded through the streets. You can catch the parades several times over the festival, or visit the stationary giants on display to see who they are and what their significance is.
• Sardana: A traditional Catalan dance performed by a group in a circle. The music changes tempo and the teams competing have to adjust their dance to maintain time with the music. It’s a slow dance but interesting to see all the teams competing in the square in front of Barcelona Cathedral.

Who Can Go to the Celebrations?

Anyone and everyone. Residents, visitors, tourists, Auntie Barbara’s neighbour’s cousin…everyone is welcome!

The joy of La Merce being in Barcelona is that the city itself is very open minded and although they might not love the amount of tourists that visit, people are very welcoming to people of all walks of life. Barcelona really is a city where you can be yourself and no-one will really bat an eyelid.

While some festivals are targeted at a certain age range or group of people, La Merce has something for everyone. There are different events happening through the day, from morning to late at night, catering for families with young children, young adults, older adults, solo travellers…everyone!

Where to Stay for La Mercè

As the festival spans across the whole city, there are plenty of areas to stay in Barcelona that would ensure you have good access to a lot of the festivities.

My go to location in Barcelona is around Plaça de Catalunya or Urquinaona. These areas are central and well connected by foot and public transport to the airport, beach and spaces across the city. There are plenty of budget friendly options, as well as places to splurge and treat yourself to a luxury stay here.

My go to hostel in the area is St Christopher’s Inn, while my favourite hotel for a more luxurious stay is Olivia Plaza. There are lots of options in this neighbourhood, but these two I have tried, tested and loved!

If you want to be in the middle of a lot of the hustle and bustle during La Mercè, opt for somewhere close to Placa de Sant Jaume. But just be aware, the crowds will be extensive, and there’s a gun salute to kick things off the first morning of the festival which is sure to wake you with a bang!

La Mercè festival finishes with an impressive fireworks display in Placa d’Espanya. It’s an easy place to walk to – personal mobility permitting – but if you are hoping to catch the firework display from the comfort of your hotel, check out Hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza. It’s right on the busy intersection giving you great transport connections to the airport and the rest of the city, as well as a prime view of the closing fireworks display from the rooftop terrace.

What to Wear to La Mercè

There isn’t a dress code for the festival and Barcelona is a very accepting city so you could probably get away with anything and no-one would give a second look. However, for certain events like the correfoc fire run, there is advice given to cover your skin a bit. This is purely from a safety perspective, as there are essentially fireworks being sprayed into the crowd.

The advised dress for a correfoc / fire run is long sleeves, trousers or legs covered and, depending how close you want to get, a hat and glasses. For the family-friendly correfoc, the crowd is kept at a safe distance from the massive sparklers that spray sparks as the devils pass by. For the adult fire run, pretty much anything goes and the sparks being sprayed into the crowd are likely to get you.

Don’t wear clothing that is easily flammable, minimise the hairspray
and be prepared that any skin on show may get burnt.

I have been caught by the fireworks at the fire run and while it stings for a bit, I had no lasting damage. If you are planning to run in the correfoc, you really should cover up.

La Mercè for Families

While most festivals probably aren’t suitable for families and young children, La Mercè really does have something to offer everyone. There is plenty going on through the day in terms of arts and music, plus family-focussed activities like character parades early in the day.

Come evening, the more raucous activities like the correfoc – fire run – have a family friendly version earlier in the evening. While it’s not an activity I would initially think about taking a child to, the kid’s version is a lot more tame and safer than the adult’s version which takes place a couple of hours after.

La Mercè for Solo Travellers

Something that I thought about before my first visit to La Mercè was whether it would be fun to visit as a solo traveller. I quickly realised that yes, it is still incredibly fun to go to alone if you’re already used to travelling solo.

The range of displays, parades, art and music shows can be easily enjoyed on your own, but if you’d prefer to go with someone you could always ask around in the hostel as I’ve often found my roommates will be going to something that is part of the festival.

Is La Mercè in Barcelona Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes! Barcelona’s biggest festival has so much going on with the cultural events, music, art, fireworks, open houses. Aside from being incredibly fun to visit, it’s also an excellent excuse to spend some time seeing the sights and city of Barcelona!

If there’s one thing England does really well, it’s old historic cities. Cobblestone streets, leaning buildings that look like they’re about to fall at any minute, the timber frames standing stark against the white painted buildings. Cathedrals are dotted in cities that just seem too small to warrant one, and they usually have some kind of old city walls or gate to enter the city.

And Canterbury is no different. It’s one of the old English cities built by the Romans, and even just the cathedral dates back to 597AD. It’s charming, compact and a day trip to Canterbury is a great choice! Read on to find out what there is to see and do in Canterbury, where to find the best coffee shops to recharge and how best to get around the city.

Where is Canterbury?

Located in the English county of Kent, Canterbury sits in the luscious greenery of the South East of England. This part of England is made up of lots of small towns and villages, with typically British seaside towns lining the coast. Canterbury is one of, if not the, largest city in the area, despite still not being overly big itself.

Top Sights to See in Canterbury

Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is definitely not a ‘hidden’ gem in this historic city and is instead an essential stop on your day trip to Canterbury.

Founded in 597 AD by St. Augustine, it has been the spiritual centre of the Church of England for centuries. The cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture, epic spires, and gorgeous stained glass windows will no doubt captivate you once you make your way in.

Inside, you’ll find intricate stone carvings, serene cloisters, and the site of Thomas Becket’s martyrdom in 1170, which has made the cathedral a pilgrimage destination.

It’s quite pricey to visit inside Canterbury Cathedral,
but if you’re on a budget then it’s still worth checking out the outside.

You can turn up and buy tickets on the day, or book in advance on the cathedral website to secure your slot and skip the queue. Or, enjoy a self-guided tour around the cathedral with the audio guide for a deeper appreciation of the rich history and explore the hidden corners. There’s more to visit than just the cathedral itself, the surrounding grounds offer calming gardens and quaint pathways, perfect for a stroll.

The Crooked House

The Crooked House in Canterbury is a charming 17th-century building famous for its slightly concerning tilt. You’ll find it on Palace Street, not far from Canterbury Cathedral, and it’s certainly a sight to be seen on your day trip to Canterbury.

From the outside, you may find yourself wondering how on earth it is still standing, but also what happened to cause it to lean so much. If you’re not from the UK then just to confirm, we don’t intentionally build our buildings in this way! The lean of the Crooked House was caused by an internal chimney slipping, but it has been reinforced with a steel frame to keep it sturdy and safe. Just check out that doorway though!

Although this is a quick and easy sight to see from the outside as you pass between other places in the city, it’s also worth popping inside. The building has changed hands a number of times over the years. Having lived a life as a gallery, music shop and clothing store, these days it’s home to Catching Lives Bookshop, a bookstore (surprise!) that sells second-hand books in support of the homeless community.

Canterbury War Memorial
The Canterbury War Memorial, sitting just outside the entrance to Canterbury Cathedral grounds, stands as a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in the first and second world wars. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1921, it’s been a constant landmark in Buttermarket Square despite the vandalism efforts over the years.

Buttermarket is a lovely square to pass through and check out, surrounded by historic architecture and bustling with life at most times of the day. When the weather is nice you’ll often find a busker in front of the memorial, and the walking tours crowding by as they stop to admire it on their way to tour the cathedral.

Shopping
You’re probably not coming to Canterbury for a day trip to do a spot of shopping, but you’ll find a mix of a shopping centre and charming independent shops across the city centre. The typical high street chain stores are all located within Whitefriars Centre, a mostly outdoor collection of shopping lanes.

Further into the city centre you’ll find the independent shops that are smaller and a bit more quirky.

Canterbury Historic River Tours
Not so much a sight to see in Canterbury, but a relaxing alternative to walking everywhere while still getting to see a different side to the city.

The traditional punts – that’s the boat – are steered along the canals by the knowledgable guides. You won’t see any of the ‘big sights’ from the canal tours, but the scenery is really pretty and you get to pass under a few picturesque bridges.

Tours are usually around 45 minutes long, and the thought of gliding along the calm rivers on a warm, sunny day sounds like the perfect way to spend the time!

Westgate Towers & City Walls
Take a stroll along Canterbury’s ancient city walls and make your way to the iconic Westgate Towers, the city’s most prominent medieval gatehouse. Dating back to around 1380, it’s the last remaining gate in the city from the seven which were originally built hundreds of years ago.

Visitors can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of Canterbury, visit the modest museum or enjoy a drink in The Pound, a nod to the towers’ history as a jail.

St. Augustine’s Abbey
Explore the ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey just outside the city walls, once a thriving Benedictine monastery and a symbol of England’s Christian heritage. It’s part of the Canterbury World Heritage site, and offers visitors a chance to wander through the tranquil grounds, marvel at the remains of the abbey church, and soak in the relaxing atmosphere of this historic site.

Walk Part of the Canterbury Camino
Canterbury sits on the path of four different camino routes, each a special pilgrimage undertaken. While not as famous as Spain’s Camino de Santiago, the Canterbury camino routes can stretch between 100km to 1000 miles. Yes, 1000 miles. Of course, you don’t need to commit to the whole 100km or 1000 miles, but if you’re interesting in trying a stretch of the route this is the perfect opportunity!

Best Canterbury Coffee Shops for a Pitstop

The charming cobblestone city is full of coffee shops and cafes to explore, but the two best centrally located coffee shops I stopped at and would 100% recommend are Lost Sheep Coffee and Baker + Barista.

Lost Sheep Coffee is owned by a couple who fell in love with coffee on their Australian travels, and brought a taste of the Aussie coffee culture back to the UK. They roast their own coffee beans in nearby Whitstable, and the coffee is just divine. So much so, I’ve ordered some to enjoy at home, many times! As well as great coffee and baked goods, they also offer a light brunch menu. It’s a small place so not one you’ll pitch up in to work from, but great for a quick bite or takeout coffee.

I loved the coffee from Lost Sheep Coffee so much, their at-home coffee is
now a regular order for me to be able to make their coffee at home!

Bakers + Baristas is actually one of a chain, though the care and dedication they display in the shop doesn’t feel like a chain coffee shop! It’s got a prime location on the main street running through Canterbury city centre, perfect for doing a spot of people watching. There’s a good spread of cakes, bakes and sandwiches on offer, and another place in Canterbury with great coffee.

There are of course plenty of coffee shops and cafes to explore in Canterbury, these are just my tried and tested recommendations.

Cat cafes are a growing trend for cat lovers and animal lovers in general. Canterbury won’t disappoint, as you’ll find a cat cafe in the city centre, close to the cathedral with the wonderfully creative name, Canterbury Tails Cat Cafe.

If you’re more of a tea drinker than a coffee fiend, be sure to check out Teastones on Sun Street. It has more tea blends than you can shake a cup at, and plenty that you can buy to try at home too. There are a few tables inside but it has a real cosy, community feel to it which is lovely.

Where to Eat in Canterbury

Canterbury is a university city, which means many students…and many places to eat. You’ll find a number of chains along the High Street running through the centre, but venture a little off the main high street and you’ll start to find the lesser known chains and independent places.

How to Get Around

Canterbury city centre is very compact and very charming with all the cobble stones, so the best (and probably only) way to get around the city centre is on foot. There are a number of walking tours you can sign up for, or self-guided walking tours are also available if you’d prefer to explore at your own pace but still get the fun and interesting facts about the city.

It’s not really a mode of travel to sightsee in Canterbury, but you can enjoy a boat ride along the river. It’s not quite a gondola ride in Venice, but on a sunny day it’s a lovely way to see Canterbury from a different perspective.

How to Get to Canterbury

Train: Canterbury has two train stations, Canterbury East and Canterbury West. Chances are if you’re coming from London or one of the surrounding seaside towns you’ll be arriving at Canterbury West. It’s a short walk from the train station into Canterbury city centre.

London to Canterbury by train: from 55 minutes to 1hr 45 minutes, depending which London station you depart from, as several have direct overground routes to Canterbury.

Car: It’s a lovely drive to Canterbury through the Kent countryside, and there are car parks located centrally that also serve the city’s shopping centre. There’s also a park and ride service if you’d prefer to park for a bit cheaper, but you can check the car park situation on the local council website.

Coach: It takes between 2 – 2.5 hours by coach from London to Canterbury.

Foot: By foot? Yep, by foot! Canterbury is on the route of 4 different pilgrimage walks similar to the famous Spanish Camino, ranging from London to Canterbury, Rochester to Ramsgate (via Canterbury) all the way to the big one, 1000 miles along the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome. Let’s just say, it’s not impossible to reach Canterbury by foot but also not for the faint hearted!

When to Visit Canterbury

A city that is great to explore in the sunshine, and still pretty in the rain, there’s not really a bad time to visit Canterbury.

Spring and autumn in the city bring mild days, better chance of nice weather and comfortable temperatures to wander the streets during the day. Winter may bring the cold and higher chance of rain, but there is also the pull of the Christmas market and lights. And of course, summer will give you the best chance of good weather, t-shirt temperatures and the opportunity to enjoy coffee in the sunshine.

Got Longer Than a Day?

If you’ve got the weekend free and want to use Canterbury as a base to explore the Kent area, there are plenty of cool towns along the coast to explore. Easily accessible by train are Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Margate, while towns such as Whitstable and Herne Bay on the north coast of the Kent area are easily reachable by bus and are also charming English seaside towns.

Could you spend 2 days in Canterbury instead? Sure, but you can easily see most of the city centre in one day and it’d probably be a lot of coffee shop stops if you have 2 days in the city.

Budapest, the vibrant heart and capital city of Hungary, is a place where history, culture, and stunning architecture come together to create an unforgettable travel destination. Add to that the world famous thermal baths, and Budapest is certainly a city that should be on everyone’s radar to visit at least once.

Whether you’re drawn to bustling markets, relaxing thermal baths, or lively café culture, Budapest promises a city break full of experiences. And here are just a selection of photos to inspire a visit to the Hungarian capital.

Why visit Budapest?

Sitting on the Danube River, Budapest offers a picturesque blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. From its iconic landmarks like the Hungarian Parliament Building and the historic Buda Castle to its charming streets lined with Art Nouveau wonders, the city is a photographer’s dream.

Throw in delicious food and really affordable prices – compared to Europe at least – and you’ve got a city break that you can fully indulge in, guilt free.

Architecture

I know, I know, every city has ‘architecture’, what makes Budapest so special? Walking along the streets of Budapest you can’t help but just admire the gorgeous, historic buildings that you pass. It’s one of the great things about exploring such old European cities, and Budapest has some absolutely stunning buildings to check out! The obvious ones are the Hungarian Parliament and the city’s cathedral, but also just standard buildings as you walk down the street are pretty to see.

Danube River

The River Danube runs through the middle of Budapest. It runs from the its source in the Black Forest area of Southern Germany, passing through 12 countries (including Hungary) before reaching the Black Sea. It’s the second longest river in Europe, and an absolute hub of life.

Due to the length and number of countries it passes through, the Danube is one of the oldest trade routes in Europe. These days it is still used for trade, but there are also a number of river cruises that use the river to transport visitors between countries and cities in luxury. These include stops in Budapest, and it’s a common sight to see the river cruise boats lined up along the shore, waiting for people to return from a day of sightseeing before moving on to the next city.

Aside from the importance in trade, a crazy length and everything it brings to Budapest, the river is also a really lovely place to wander along or enjoy a river tour. From it, you can see a number of sights that Budapest is famous for, including the Hungarian Parliament building, Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, all worth adding on to a sightseeing list.

Buda and Pest

Modern day Budapest is one city, but it got its name from the two settlements that sat either side of the river. Buda is the settlement and area on the hillier side of the river, while Pest is the flatter side where the majority of the city is these days.

While we’re on the topic of the name, if you’re not sure how to pronounce Budapest it’s like ‘Boo-da-pest’ in English, or ‘Boo-da-pesh-t’ in Hungarian.

Thermal baths

One thing Budapest is known for worldwide are the thermal baths. While there’s the big one all tourists try to visit – Széchenyi Thermal Bath – there are actually a number across the city. Due to Széchenyi’s popularity it’s often crowded, but there are plenty of other thermal baths to check out in the city.

You can expect to find a number of different pools in the complex for whichever one you visit, often with different temperatures and surroundings. Some of the thermal baths offer riverside views, slides or wave pools. Definitely a must do when in Budapest!

History

With many, many books written on Budapest’s history, I couldn’t even begin to touch on it here. However, the city dates back to pre-Roman times and has seen more than its fair share of wars and battles in its time. The age of the city and battle history can still be seen across the city, from the historic buildings that still stand to the hollowed out marks in the walls of building behind the Hungarian Parliament from gunshots there.

There are nods to the city’s history as you walk around, one notably on the riverbank of the Danube. As you walk along, you’ll see over 50 pairs of iron shoes on the edge of the walkway. These are a memorial to people murdered during WWII who were made to take off their shoes before being shot into the river. The mix of shoes from adults, men, women, children, really highlights the atrocities that took place here.

Food & drink

Hungary isn’t a country that often takes a spotlight on the world cuisine map, but Budapest is a treasure trove of great food and even better range of cuisines to tuck into. As with all great capital cities, you’ll find a vast number of places offering the typical Hungarian hits such as goulash, langos and potato dishes. But if you take a wander around the city, you’ll also find a lot of international restaurants.

For a fun crossover of food and shopping, Budapest markets have you covered. There are a handful across the city, but the biggest and best has to be Central Market Hall. It’s conveniently located in the middle of the city centre, and has a great selection of market stalls across two floors, offering souvenirs, crafts, groceries and even ready to eat food.

Don’t be fooled into thinking food is Budapest’s focus though. Nightlife in Budapest is a huge draw for many to the city, and you’ll find a mix of sophisticated bars offering drinks al fresco – gorgeous for the Budapest summers – as well as quiet bars hidden away in the side streets. If you’ve not heard of the Ruins bars yet, you’re missing out! A collection of bars in a once abandoned building, the ruins bars are a real hodge podge collection decked out in graffiti, offering a really unique, fun night out.

These are just a small collection of photos to inspire you to visit this gorgeous city. If you’re still wondering why visit Budapest, then the best way to answer that question is to take my approach – book a flight and enjoy a weekend in the gorgeous city!