Three Hot European Destinations You Must Visit This Summer
The summer is almost here, and it’s time to explore these hot European destinations. Whether you are into sightseeing, sports or classical music – these cities have a lot to offer, so read on for some exciting trip ideas. Which city will you discover first?
Berlin
Why?
Because of the history; the shopping opportunities; the welcoming cycling culture; and the 24/7 party scene.
Where to go and what to do?
- Download the free Going Local Berlin app for iOS and Android. Connect to the Internet using an international travel SIM and use your phone’s GPS to enjoy Berlin tips and info relevant to your location.
- Take a bicycle ride and visit the must-see sights (the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, the Berlin Wall and the DDR (East Germany) Museum). Download GPS tracks or maps for bicycle routes through Berlin here, save them to your phone or tablet and use as you go.
- Shop at the largest department store in Europe (KaDeWe). Use currency conversion apps such as XE Currency to calculate the prices on the go.
- Don’t forget the Berlin Kulturforum – one of the most important cultural sites in Germany – with its museum, concert halls and libraries. Get your Museum Pass online.
Summer Specials:
- 2015 UEFA Champions League Final: Juventus F.C., Real Madrid C.F., FC Barcelona and FC Bayern Munich – two of these top European clubs will play at the Berlin Olympiastadion on 6 June 2015. Download the free official UEFA application for iOS and Android to receive alerts, up-to-date results and premium highlights even if you don’t attend the match itself.
- All Nations Festival: Regularly, between 25 and 30 embassies, consulates and foreign cultural institutions open their doors for visitors so they get an impression of the diplomatic work there but also the country represented. Activities and food delicacies complete the program. June 13 20015.
- The Lesbian and Gay City Festival: The Lesbian and Gay City Festival in Berlin is Europe's largest street party of its kind. It is held annually around Nollendorfplatz, the traditional gay stomping ground in Berlin-Schöneberg. 20 & 21 June 2015. For more information on this event visit http://www.stadtfest.berlin/en/index.html
- Find and book tickets for various cultural events at http://www.visitberlin.de/en
London
Why?
Because of the Roayl Family; the Oxford Street flagship stores; the numerous free museums; and the theatre.
Where to go and what to do?
- Download the official Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace iOS application for a timetable of events at this famous tourist attraction.
- Use Transit App (for both iOS and Android) to see all nearby transport options and departure times.
- Sail along the Thames River to The Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site and stand in two hemispheres simultaneously.
- Ride the London Eye and see the city from the bird’s-eye view or meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Madame Tussauds London (don’t worry about your manners, these are just wax sculptures). You can buy a combine ticket to these two attractions for 40 GBP (~60 USD) online or 45 GBP on spot. Visit the museum’s website for more information.
- If you are a book lover, don’t miss the Sherlock Holmes Museum located at the very real Baker Street.
- Don’t forget to buy gifts for those at home! Shop for pieces of art, food or furnishings at the Camden Lock Market or visit the famous Regent Street while receiving live suggestions from the innovative Regent Street App (currently available for iOS only).
Summer Specials:
- Trooping the Colour: This impressive display of tradition is held on the occasion of the Queen's Official Birthday. While the parade itself can only be viewed by ticket holders, everyone can watch the festive processions in The Mall, a central London promenade, while trying to get a glimpse of The Queen. 13 June 2015. Visit The Household Division website for information on this and other Ceremonial Events, including tips on where to watch from, schedules and historical overview. http://www.householddivision.org.uk
- Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships: Wimbledon is one of four Grand Slam tennis tournaments held around the world. It's the world's longest-running and most prestigious tennis tournament. Games are played on grass, and there's a strict white-only dress code for players. Wimbledon offers sport lovers the chance to buy premium tickets on the day of the game – but one will have to queue (it’s even possible to queue overnight, in a tent). 29 June – 12 July 2015.
- Hampton Court Palace Flower Show: the world’s largest annual flower show. Six days of fun with a host of horticultural displays and activities in the grounds of the royal palace. You can enjoy the rose marquee and the innovative gardens showcasing the next trends in garden design. Download the free show app (iOS and Android) to learn more about the plants on display. 30 June – 5 July 2015.
Prague
Why?
Because of the breathtaking views; the diversity of the city’s architecture; the reasonable prices; and the world-famous beer.
Where to go and what to do?
- Visit http://www.prague.eu/en for practical information, emergency contacts and downloadable travel brochures.
- Stroll through the Old Town, cross the ancient Charles Bridge and visit the Old Jewish Cemetery founded in the 15th
- Enjoy the panoramic view of Prague castle, and then have a beer at The Good Soldier Švejk’s famous pub U Kalicha (The Goblet).
- Children will love the Prague Zoo, while both curious children and adults alike should not miss the renewed National Technical Museum (reduced admission price on May 17 2015; for other dates see here).
Summer Specials:
- 2015 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship: Czech Republic hosts the 2015 Ice Hockey World Championship, with Group Stage games taking place in Prague and Ostrava and the finals at the capital's O2 Arena. Tickets can be booked online. 1 May – 17 May 2015.
- Prague Microbrewery Beer Festival 2015: The festival celebrates the country's microbreweries, 70 of which will present their finest brews - more than 140 kinds of beers will be available to taste. 12 & 13 June 2015.
- Bohemia Jazz Fest: The Bohemia Jazz Fest is an annual event drawing in musicians from the US and Europe. The show travels around the Czech Republic, with 3 days allocated to Prague. Visitors can enjoy free open-air jazz at the Old Town Square during the evening hours. 13 – 15 July 2015.
To enjoy your vacation to the fullest don’t leave home without a global data SIM card that will allow you to navigate the streets of Berlin, locate the best restaurants while in London and send you family those beautiful pictures of Prague’s Old Town.
