Travel diaries can be an excellent way to document your trip and share it with those back home. But you must select the journal best suited to your individual needs and preferences.
If you're looking for a digital version of your travel diary, Tripcast is an app that lets you quickly share photos and videos while on the go. Plus, it automatically records all your data.
This Europe trip diary offers lined and blank pages to capture all your adventures, along with useful information tailored specifically for travelers! Plus, you can upload all of your photos onto a map for an even more visual account of your journey!
Maintaining a travel journal can be daunting with all the digital apps available. But nothing beats an old-fashioned pen-and-paper trip diary for recording thoughts and feelings while away.
No matter if you're traveling for business or pleasure, be sure to document your experiences so you can look back fondly upon them when you return home.
Experience a glimpse of royalty at Munich, admire the cut-glass Alps in Switzerland, or hear Mozart in Austria's capital on this Central Europe trip! Enjoy beautiful mountains, cold beers, and plenty of history during this two-week journey through Central Europe!
Here are some of the best Europe trip diary cities to keep track of during your vacation!
London
London is one of the world's most iconic cities, boasting iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace.
Discover the city's vibrant history through its many museums, which are free to enter. Start at the Natural History Museum where you can view fossils from ancient times and pose for a photo alongside a Diplodocus skeleton. After that, head over to the Science Museum to gain insight into scientific progress throughout time.
If you're into art, visit the National Gallery. It boasts an impressive collection of masterpieces by renowned artists such as da Vinci, Turner, and Van Gogh.
London is renowned for its abundance of culture, offering visitors an impressive selection of museums - many free to enter. The Victoria and Albert Museum stands out in particular, hosting high-profile exhibitions that often sell out quickly.
Another must-visit is St Paul's Cathedral, where you can explore its Nave and Quire. Climb the 300+ steps up to the Stone Gallery for breathtaking views of London below.
London is a buzzing and energetic city that boasts an array of cultural attractions, from world-class museums to top-notch entertainment. To make the most of your trip, plan it carefully by researching tourist traps and savoring its true spirit. With some research, you're sure to make the most of every moment in this vibrant city!
Paris
Paris is often described as Europe's most romantic capital, known for its world-class art museums, historic landmarks, elegant restaurants, and grand boulevards. But there's much more to explore in this expansive city!
Paris is an ideal starting point for your European trip, offering so many captivating sights to discover. Here you'll find everything from art museums to charming street-side cafes in this city known for its romantic atmosphere and intricate architecture.
If you're an art enthusiast, then visiting the world-renowned Louvre Museum is a must-do. Here, you can immerse yourself in the history of art through one of its greatest collections. There's no better way to get your culture fix than by experiencing such a place!
In addition to the Louvre, Paris also boasts several excellent art museums. Some, like Musee d'Orsay, offer an insight into Impressionist artists while others showcase more modern artwork from across Europe.
Make the most of your time in Paris by visiting one of the many museums dedicated to a particular region or language, like Musee du Quai Branly with artwork from Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Not only will this give you an insight into other cultures but it will help maximize your enjoyment as well!
Another great way to see some of Paris' iconic sights is by taking a cruise down the Seine. These tours are available all day and make for an ideal way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
Alternatively, you could venture outside the city to discover some of France's more culturally diverse sights. Popular options include La Grande Pagode de Vincennes - home to Europe's biggest Buddha - and Pagode Khanh-Anh, an awe-inspiring Vietnamese temple.
For a more leisurely way to experience the city, there are numerous public parks throughout it. These are perfect spots to stroll around, take in the scenery, and have a picnic lunch.
Take a leisurely walk along Avenue des Champs-Elysees, an unmissable shopping mecca. Here, you'll find stores ranging from high street staples to prestige brands in an eclectic mix of colorful awnings, inventive window displays, and a legendary sense of style that makes this street one of the finest shopping streets in Europe.
One of the best activities to do in Paris is visiting the iconic Palais Garnier opera house, home to countless operas and ballets. After exploring its interior, take a leisurely walk through its breathtaking gardens that are hidden away within its expansive estate.
Another must-visit is Musee d'Orsay, home to the largest collection of Impressionist art in the world. Here you can admire works by artists like Monet, Manet, Degas, Cezanne, and Renoir up close.
Paris offers plenty of activities for travelers to enjoy, but if you want something truly memorable, we suggest booking a tour. There are various tours available so that you can pick which one best suits your needs.
Prague
Prague is an enchanting European city that's worth exploring. With its stunning architecture, captivating history, and laid-back atmosphere, it is one of Central Europe's top tourist destinations to discover.
When visiting Prague, the ideal time to visit is in spring or fall when temperatures are optimal and the city isn't overrun with tourists like in the wintertime.
Start your exploration of Prague's main attractions by visiting Old Town Square (also known as Stare Mesto). Here you'll find the Astronomical Clock and many major landmarks such as Prague Castle.
One iconic landmark in Prague is the Charles Bridge, connecting Old Town to Nove Mesto or New Town. This popular walking route should not be missed when visiting Prague.
Charles Bridge was built in 1357 and serves as the main connection between Old Town and Lesser Town across the Vltava River. Measuring 516 meters long, its majestic statues stand guard for an unforgettable sight.
For some of Prague's quirkier sights, explore Lucerna Passage with its Upside Down Horse hanging from the dome ceiling - said to mock King Wenceslas' statue in Wenceslas Square.
Visitors to Prague can explore the Museum of Communism for an insider's look at life under communist rule. Its rooms are filled with artifacts and propaganda posters that illustrate daily life during this era.
The Czech Republic is often underrated and misunderstood in travel writing, yet Prague boasts plenty to offer. If you have some extra time during your European vacation, make sure to stop by this charming city if only for a few days.
Prague, situated in the heart of the Czech Republic, is one of Europe's most captivating capitals. It's renowned for its Gothic cathedrals and vibrant arts scene.
Traveling to Prague is an unforgettable experience, and it's worth taking the time to visit all its iconic sights. Popular highlights include Charles Bridge and Spanish Synagogue in Jewish Quarter.
Experience the beauty of Prague from a different perspective with a cruise along the Vltava River. Not only will you get to take in all of its iconic landmarks from this unique viewpoint, but you'll also have some delicious meals waiting for you at the same time!
Experience the best view of Charles Bridge and other landmarks by taking a nighttime boat tour. This will allow you to see monuments illuminated in the evening, providing an enchanting way to spend your time in Prague.
Make a stop at the Prague Zoo, which has been ranked among the world's top five. There are plenty of animals to view and you could easily spend an entire day there exploring all that this magnificent facility has to offer.
While in Prague, it's essential to incorporate yourself into the local culture as much as possible. The Czech people are incredibly warm and friendly, so making friends with them while here can be beneficial for both of you.
If you want to learn more about Prague's fascinating history, head over to one of its many museums. Not only will these give your insight into the city's vibrant culture but also that of the entire country as a whole.
Reminder: it's best to visit the museum early in the morning to beat the crowds and maximize your time viewing exhibits. Furthermore, they offer various tours and activities like boat cruises where you can take in the sights from below.
The city is alive with artists, so you'll find galleries, paintings for sale, and plenty of street performers. Additionally, you can enjoy dark-light theatre, marionette operas, and puppet shows.
One of the city's most unique buildings, The Dancing House was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and inspired by iconic dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. You can enjoy stunning views of the city from its top floor.
Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and a must-visit on any European trip. With its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and some of the best thermal baths in the world, Budapest will leave you with lasting memories.
Start your first day in Budapest by exploring Budapest's highlights, such as its iconic Parliament building. If you're feeling energetic, climb the dome for an incredible 360-degree view of the city.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk-through Pest and admire sites such as Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion. Don't forget to cross Szechenyi Bridge and visit Cave Church located within Gellert Hill for some photo ops!
On this tour, you'll get to experience some of Budapest's most iconic sights and learn about its rich history. The cost is 24,000 HUF and the experience lasts around 3 hours.
Another option is visiting the Harry Houdini Museum, situated in a former bank and featuring several of his props and memorabilia as well as a live magic show.
Booking a tour with an expert or making the most of your own time by planning it yourself can be done. When doing it yourself, remember to bring swimsuits so that you can take a dip in one of the many thermal baths located nearby.
Day trips from Budapest offer a vast array of activities, from charming villages to historic sights to lakes and more. These excursions will give you an authentic taste of Hungary's culture and heritage.
Budapest, Hungary's bustling capital, offers plenty to discover and experience. During my time here, I enjoyed exploring its highlights and taking in its history through museums, walking tours, and more.
Budapest is a compact city despite its vastness, boasting excellent walking conditions. You can get around on foot, by public transport, or even by the local tourist bus with ease.
Discover Budapest from a new perspective by taking a cruise along the Danube River. You'll get to take in iconic sights like Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church, and Buda Castle as you sail by.
If you want to explore Budapest's history further, be sure to visit the House of Terror Museum. This fascinating museum transports visitors back in time during World War II and provides a vivid depiction of life for Budapest residents during Communist rule.
After your shopping spree at the Budapest Market, explore everything from fresh produce to meats and cheeses at this outdoor marketplace. Plus, sample some local cuisine at restaurants within the market!
Vienna
Vienna is the European cultural capital, home to world-renowned opera, Viennese coffee houses, and art museums. Additionally, Vienna serves as host to several international organizations like the United Nations and OPEC.
Austria's capital offers plenty of activities, but if you don't plan ahead, it can seem overwhelming. To avoid feeling rushed, focus on one or two key highlights and add in extra days for exploring Central Europe beyond Vienna.
Museums Quartier district is an ideal starting point, featuring everything from the world-renowned Egon Schiele collection to a mini golf course and sculpture park. Here you'll also find some of the city's best bars and restaurants as well as MUMOK (Museum of Modern Art).
Graben Street, a pedestrian promenade lined with shops and statues in Vienna's center, is another must-see. Here you can people-watch while admiring Stock Im Eisen (the "nail tree") which dates back to the Middle Ages.
In the evenings, dine at a heuriger, an authentic wine garden that serves small meals of traditional Viennese food. It's an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the
I highly recommend visiting the Kunsthistorisches Museum, home to an impressive collection of classic, Renaissance, and old master's artwork. Plus, it houses the Imperial Treasury with an impressive array of royal artifacts as well as the largest cut emerald in existence.
With your Vienna Pass you can access free entry to the Leopold Museum as well as plenty of other exciting activities in this area! Don't forget about visiting one of Vienna's numerous Christmas markets at Rathausplatz, Maria-Theresien-Platz, Am Hof, or Freyung for some festive fun!
Berlin
Berlin is an exciting, modern city that also holds a rich historical legacy. From its iconic Berlin Wall to an array of cultural attractions, there's something for everyone in this city of contrasts.
Visit the Topography of Terror, which vividly recounts the story of what occurred in Berlin during WWII. Housed within what used to be the SS Reich Security Main Office, this documentation center provides a sobering yet informative glimpse into Nazi atrocities committed against humanity.
Another poignant site is the Holocaust Memorial, featuring 2,711 concrete blocks of various sizes. This memorial - free to visit - serves as a poignant reminder of Germany's mass genocide against Jews during WWII and of the millions who perished during that period.
Experience Berlin's 800-year-old history through interactive exhibits at Museum Island! Alternatively, purchase a Berlin Welcome Pass which grants three days of free public transportation plus entry to Museum Island museums.
The city's public transport network is fast and dependable, so you shouldn't need to rent a car for short trips. However, if you do want to explore on your own, bicycles make for easier navigation than buses or trains and provide a more personalized experience than either can offer. Just be mindful of any cobblestones or tram lines that could pose serious hazards for cyclists.
Berlin is an iconic city adorned with landmarks, an ever-evolving cultural scene, and a laidback lifestyle. It also houses an international economy of high-tech firms and the service sector that draws diverse creative industries, research facilities, media corporations, and convention venues alike.
One of the must-see attractions in Berlin is visiting the Reichstag building, home to Germany's parliament (Bundestag). This Neo-Renaissance palace has undergone a 10-year reconstruction and recently added a stunning glass dome that provides stunning views of the cityscape.
Visitors to the Reichstag can enjoy breathtaking views of Berlin at any time of day, but twilight is our favorite. Plus, you'll get to listen to an informative audio guide as you explore this historic building.
One must-visit attraction in Berlin is Museum Island. Here you can learn about Berlin's rich cultural heritage through art, archaeology, culture, religion, music, and politics.
For anyone with an interest in military history, the Berlin War Museum should not be missed. Here you can learn about the Allied forces, the Soviet Union, and how the world changed during the Second World War. All exhibits are presented in English so even if you're not a native speaker you'll still enjoy yourself here.
While in the area, don't miss Charlottenburg Palace - a former summer residence of Frederick the Great that must-see. Additionally, some nearby museums are worth exploring as well.
If you're in Berlin and looking for a wild night, the clubs don't fear getting rowdy. In fact, many remain open until the wee hours. Start your evening at one club and move on to others as the mood takes you, or simply dance all night long!
Berlin may not have the same cultural attractions as Munich, Nuremberg, or Hamburg, but that doesn't make it any less beautiful. There are historic sites to discover, historic neighborhoods to discover, and delicious restaurants to try. There's something for everyone in Berlin!
If you're into art, the German National Gallery is worth visiting. It boasts an impressive collection of both modern and traditional European paintings.
For something a bit more somber, visit the DDR Museum to gain insight into life in East Germany during communist rule. It features plenty of videos and pictures.
Checkpoint Charlie, the famous gateway between former East and West Berlin, can be seen. Here, people attempted to smuggle out of the East.
Berlin is known as one of Europe's trendiest cities, boasting an exciting music and art scene. You'll find all kinds of shops here, from famous shopping districts like Kurfurstendamm and Friedrichstrasse to independent boutiques.
Lake Ohrid
Ohrid, Macedonia's cultural capital, offers travelers an idyllic European getaway. Situated along Lake Ohrid's shores, Ohrid boasts numerous monuments and sites that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
With its serene, pristine beauty, Banff is a top destination for those seeking to unwind. October is an ideal time to visit when the town remains relatively quiet but offers plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
One of the best activities to do on Lake Ohrid is taking a leisurely walk along its shoreline. This is an ideal way to get acquainted with both the city and its stunning natural environment.
Another must-see attraction in Lake Ohrid is visiting St Naum Monastery, perched atop a small cliff overlooking the water. This monastery should not be missed and can easily be reached from Ohrid's main dock.
Boat tours to St Naum Monastery in Ohrid offer breathtaking views of this picturesque church perched atop a cliff above the lake. Just a short walk away from Ohrid's main dock, this serene spot should not be missed while visiting this picturesque town.
The church is open to the public with plenty of seating areas and shade. Don't forget your camera either - there are lots of peacocks roaming around! The monks at Lake Ohrid Monastery are friendly and knowledgeable about Lake Ohrid's history. Although you need to pay a small entrance fee to enter, it's well worth it!
Lake Ohrid is a must-see for any visitor to the Balkans, especially North Macedonia. Situated along Albania's border, this ancient lake boasts a depth of 300m and offers plenty of opportunity for peaceful reflection. It truly feels like being immersed in nature!
For a more cultural visit to Lake Ohrid, explore the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town. You'll pass Robevi Family House and Sveta Sofija Cathedral, both boasting stunning frescoes.
Once you've finished exploring all that the city has to offer, stop for lunch at Chun Restaurant for stunning views of the lake and some Plasnica fish - a local delicacy.
Explore the remnants of Elshani's city walls or venture to Galichitsa National Park for some exciting excursions and traditional food. If you're looking for accommodation, Risto's Guest House in Elshani is 900m above sea level with panoramic views, various excursions, and delicious traditional food - making it a great destination!
Munich
Munich, the third-largest city in Germany, is a popular tourist destination with plenty of cultural and architectural attractions. It retains the charm of an old-world village while still providing modern-day conveniences and attractions.
The city's top attractions include numerous museums and the world's largest science and technology museum. Furthermore, there are plenty of other cultural institutions to explore.
In addition to art museums, the city also provides numerous free cultural activities and events that are open to everyone. These range from cinema, theatre, cultural events, and much more - all available for attendees to enjoy.
Munich is renowned for its Oktoberfest, the world's biggest beer festival that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Here you can sample delicious Bavarian brews while appreciating live music and traditional foods.
Another must-see attraction is the Englischer Garten, also known as the English Garden. This urban park is one of the largest in the world and provides a tranquil haven to enjoy some relaxation and fun all year round.
Rent a paddle boat, take a leisurely walk along its wooded paths, or even visit one of its many traditional beer gardens. Plus, this is an ideal spot to shop for souvenirs and sample some traditional cuisine.
If you're a beer connoisseur, make sure to visit Hofbrauhaus - the world's largest brewery. It features an informative brewing museum as well as its legendary grilled sausages and pretzels.
The astronomical clock at New Town Hall is a popular landmark. It tells stories twice daily, providing entertainment to both tourists and residents alike.
Another iconic landmarks in the city are Marienplatz, an expansive open square featuring many historic buildings and monuments. It serves as a popular meeting point and hub of shopping activity in the area, alongside other major attractions like Old Town Hall or Council Square.
Experience an unforgettable view of Munich by climbing the tower bells at Asam Church. Inside, you'll find Gothic paintings, frescoes, and an altar that dates back over 300 years! You can take the stairs to the top of a lookout tower for an incredible 360-degree panorama of the city.
When visiting Munich, the best time to go is during spring when temperatures are at their most pleasant. Additionally, you'll find fewer tourists and better rates for accommodation during this period.
