We are SO thrilled that you've decided to embark on this extraordinary journey to join us in celebrating our love in Austria. Your presence means the world to us, and we are truly grateful for the effort and commitment it takes to be part of this special occasion. To enhance your experience, we've curated a selection of enchanting destinations around Europe that you may want to explore. From the romantic streets of Paris to the historic charm of Milan, this continent offers an array of captivating locales that promise to add even more magic to your travel adventure. We invite you to peruse this page - dedicated to these stunning destinations, ensuring your visit becomes a cherished chapter in our love story.
AHHHH Welcome to Austria! Georg's home country ❤️❤️. I (Ashley) have been here many times and I have to say, it feels like a new place with each trip. From the mountain beauty, rich history and delicious delicacies, Austria is a great European vacation. See the 10- day itinerary for some ideas on things to do during your stay.
Immerse in Culture and Scenic Splendor
Day 1-3: Vienna - The Imperial City
- Explore Schönbrunn Palace: Begin your journey in Vienna with a visit to the iconic Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty.
- Discover Belvedere Palace: Marvel at the stunning art collections within Belvedere Palace. The Upper Belvedere is renowned for its impressive Klimt collection, including "The Kiss."
- Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral: Explore the heart of Vienna with a trip to St. Stephen's Cathedral. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Day 4-5: Salzburg - The Sound of Music
- Scenic Train Ride to Salzburg: Take a picturesque train ride from Vienna to Salzburg, enjoying the Austrian countryside. Arrive in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart.
- Sound of Music Tour: Relive the magic of the beloved film with a Sound of Music Tour. Visit iconic locations such as Mirabell Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey, and the famous gazebo.
- Wander through the Old Town: Explore Salzburg's charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress and stroll along Getreidegasse, Mozart's birthplace.
Day 6-8: Innsbruck - Alpine Elegance
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds: Head to Innsbruck and stop at Swarovski Crystal Worlds to marvel at the dazzling art installations.
- Visit the Alpine Zoo: Experience the unique Alpine Zoo, home to a diverse range of alpine animals against the stunning backdrop of the Nordkette mountain range.
- Explore Innsbruck Old Town: Wander through the historic Old Town, admiring the Golden Roof and the Imperial Palace.
Day 9-10: Vienna - Culinary Delights
- Culinary Exploration: Return to Vienna for a culinary adventure.
- Indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine at a Heuriger (wine tavern) and savor the flavors of Sachertorte and Wiener Schnitzel.
This 10-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Austria. For restaurant recommendations during your stay in Vienna or Krems, reach out to us :)
Canary Islands is 100% our favorite vacation. It was a great mix of laying on the beach, hiking and exploring, tasting delicious foods and meeting warm locals. It's an enchanting Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, boasting a tapestry of landscapes, from the lunar-like expanses of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote to the lush greenery of Gran Canaria's interior. Each island offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. See some highlights below:
Day 1-2: Gran Canaria
Morning: Arrival in Las Palmas
- Explore Vegueta, the historic district.
- Visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana.
Afternoon: Playa de Las Canteras
- Relax on the beach.
- Stroll along the promenade.
Day 2: Central Gran Canaria
- Head to the center for a hike in Caldera de Bandama.
- Visit the picturesque town of Teror.
- Explore the botanical garden, Jardín Canario.
Day 3-4: Tenerife
Morning: Travel to Tenerife
- Take a ferry or short flight to Tenerife.
Afternoon: La Laguna
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of La Laguna.
- Visit the Cathedral of La Laguna.
Day 4: Teide National Park
- Spend the day in Teide National Park.
- Take the cable car up Mount Teide for breathtaking views.
- Explore the unique landscapes.
Day 5-6: Lanzarote
Morning: Travel to Lanzarote
- Fly or take a ferry to Lanzarote.
Afternoon: Timanfaya National Park
- Visit Timanfaya National Park and experience the volcanic landscapes.
- Take a camel ride.
Day 6: César Manrique's Creations
- Explore Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes.
- Visit the César Manrique Foundation.
Day 7: Fuerteventura
Morning: Travel to Fuerteventura
- Take a ferry or flight to Fuerteventura.
Afternoon: Corralejo
- Relax on the sandy beaches of Corralejo.
- Explore the town and its vibrant atmosphere.
Corsica was GORGEOUS!! While in Italy we took a ferry from Livorno to Bastia to explore this island. Corsica is an outdoor paradise! The waters are insanely clear, and the people are super friendly. The island is a playground for adventure junkies—think stunning cliffs, epic trails, and a vibe that's pure bliss. It's a must for anyone who loves nature and good vibes!
Day 1: Arrival in Ajaccio
- Arrive in Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica.
- Visit the historic Old Town and explore the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Relax at the local cafes and enjoy Corsican cuisine.
Day 2: Scenic Drive to Calvi
- Drive along the picturesque Route des Sanguinaires for stunning coastal views.
- Stop at the Les Calanques de Piana, famous for its dramatic red granite cliffs.
- Continue to Calvi, a charming town with a historic citadel.
Day 3: Explore Calvi
- Visit the Citadel of Calvi, offering panoramic views of the town and the sea.
- Relax on Calvi's beautiful beaches.
- Explore the marina and enjoy the local seafood.
Day 4: Head to Porto-Vecchio
- Drive to Porto-Vecchio, a charming town known for its old town and stunning beaches.
- Visit the historic Citadel and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in the town center.
Day 5: Beach Day in Porto-Vecchio
- Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches near Porto-Vecchio, such as Palombaggia or Santa Giulia.
- Water activities like snorkeling or boat trips are popular options.
Day 6: Inland Adventure to Corte
- Head inland to Corte, a mountain town known for its historic citadel and university.
- Explore the Restonica Valley with its stunning nature, including lakes and waterfalls.
Day 7: Departure from Bastia
- Drive to Bastia, the northernmost major town in Corsica.
- Explore the Old Port and Saint-Nicolas Square.
- Depart from Bastia or spend the evening exploring the town further.
Back in February 2022, I (Ashley) decided to take a solo trip to Paris, embracing the city's allure even under persistently cloudy skies (Winter in Paris). Despite the weather, every cobblestone street and every cafe along the Seine had this indescribable charm. It was like stepping into a dream. And, guess what? The people, contrary to what you often hear, were unexpectedly friendly. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the hidden gems, Paris turned out to be more welcoming than I could have imagined. Clouds or not, my solo escapade was a delightful journey filled with unforgettable moments and a newfound appreciation for the arts and history. I would certainly go back...but in the summer :)
Day 1: Iconic Parisian Landmarks
- Start your day at the Eiffel Tower. Consider going early to beat the crowds.
- Walk along the Seine River and explore the Trocadéro Gardens for the best Eiffel Tower views.
- Head to the Louvre Museum to see the world-famous Mona Lisa and other art treasures.
- Evening stroll in the charming Montmartre neighborhood. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a panoramic view of the city.
Day 2: Art and Culture
- Spend the morning at Musée d'Orsay, home to an extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces.
- Afternoon visit to Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows.
- Explore the Île de la Cité and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Evening cruise on the Seine River for a different perspective of the city's landmarks.
Day 3: Historic Paris
- Visit the Palace of Versailles for a day trip. Explore the opulent gardens and the Hall of Mirrors.
- Evening return to Paris and dine in the Latin Quarter for a taste of local cuisine.
Day 4: Neighborhood Exploration
- Morning visit to the Musée Rodin to see the famous sculpture garden.
- Afternoon stroll through the Marais district. Visit Place des Vosges and the Centre Pompidou.
- Explore Le Marais's trendy shops, cafes, and boutiques.
- Evening at Le Marais for vibrant nightlife.
Day 5: Relax and Enjoy
- Morning visit to Luxembourg Gardens for a peaceful start to the day.
- Explore the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.
- Afternoon at the Musée de l'Orangerie to see Monet's Water Lilies.
- Evening boat cruise on the Seine or enjoy a leisurely dinner at a classic Parisian bistro.
My God. Talk about a country that just has everything. WOW Italy had us on the edge of making it our top vacation pick—seriously, it's that breathtaking! Exploring Cinque Terre's colorful villages, strolling through the fashion-forward streets of Milan, and soaking in the sheer beauty of Lake Como—it's a visual feast. Lake Como, though, stole the show; the scenery is just out of this world. Trust us, if you're planning a trip, Lake Como is a must-visit. Italy, you nearly clinched the crown as our number one, and the memories we made in these places will last a lifetime.
Day 1-3: Milan
- Begin your Italian adventure in Milan, the fashion capital. Explore the iconic Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
- Visit Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
- Stroll around the trendy Navigli district for its vibrant nightlife and picturesque canals.
Day 4-6: Cinque Terre - Monterosso al Mare
-Head to Monterosso al Mare in Cinque Terre, a charming coastal village.
- Hike the breathtaking coastal trails connecting the five villages or take a scenic boat ride.
- Relax on the stunning beaches and savor fresh seafood in local restaurants.
Day 7-9: Lake Como
- Travel to the picturesque Lake Como, surrounded by the Alps.
- Explore the charming towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo around the lake.
- Take a boat tour to appreciate the stunning villas and lush gardens that adorn the lakeshore.
This itinerary primarily covers northern Italy. While we didn't explore Southern Italy this time, it offers its own unique charm and attractions. Make sure to plan a future trip to discover the treasures of Rome, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and beyond!
Ahhh Portugal holds a very special chapter in our travel story. I (Ashley) practically lived there for four enriching months, immersing myself in study and culture. The adventure took a delightful turn when Georg joined me later on, and together we explored the diverse wonders of Lisbon, the historic charm of Porto, the vineyard-laden Douro Valley, the serene beauty of Seia, and the academic allure of Coimbra. Portugal, with its warm people, rich history, and stunning landscapes, found a permanent spot in my heart. Beyond the enchanting experiences, what struck me is its affordability, making it not just a destination but a pocket-friendly escape brimming with culture, flavor, and memories.
Day 1-3: Lisbon
- Begin in Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital. Explore historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto.
- Visit iconic landmarks such as Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle.
- Wander through the colorful streets of the LX Factory and enjoy a Fado performance in the evening.
Day 4-6: Porto
- Travel to Porto, a city known for its historic architecture and the famous Port wine.
- Explore the Ribeira district along the Douro River, visit Livraria Lello, and cross the Dom Luís I Bridge.
- Take a boat cruise on the Douro River and tour one of the renowned Port wine cellars.
Day 7-8: Douro Valley
- Head to the picturesque Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a scenic drive through terraced vineyards.
- Visit local wineries, savoring the region's excellent wines, and soak in the breathtaking landscapes.
Day 9-10: Seia
- Travel to Seia, a charming town in the Serra da Estrela mountains.
- Explore the mountainous landscapes, visit the Bread Museum, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or skiing (depending on the season).
Day 11-12: Coimbra
- Journey to Coimbra, home to one of the world's oldest universities.
- Visit the University of Coimbra, the Joanina Library, and the Royal Palace of Alcáçova.
- Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center and relax by the Mondego River.
Day 13: Return to Lisbon
- Return to Lisbon for a final day, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or discovering new corners.
- Spend your last evening enjoying the vibrant nightlife or a leisurely dinner in a traditional Fado restaurant.
We don't have an itinerary for Switzerland because each time we went, we spent less than 24 hours there! It's an honorable mention because we have to tell you.... Majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and charming villages define this picturesque country. We personally explored the glitz of St. Moritz, where luxury meets nature, and soaked in the urban sophistication of Zurich. It's a great choice for mountains and lakes. We know you have seen the reels on instagram or tiktoks of the Swiss beauty. Understand though, this place is pricey. I remember when we went to St.Moritz and spent $400 EASILY. It was scary. So just know if you go, be prepared for money to just *poof* disappear.