The calendar is telling us that autumn has arrived, although, I don't know about yourselves, but in Romania we are still happily baking at over 35 degrees. Still, we must prepare for the colder part of the year... with the autumn-winter collection of the finest travelers. Or at least, European travelers. ;) These are my personal favourites: cities I have visited in autumn or winter, and which I found particularly appealing in these seasons. They may not be warm, in order for us to escape the cold, but everything is about colours, atmosphere, architecture, history and even cuisine. And hey... in the end, wrapping up in warm clothes is not such a big deal! I arranged these cities alphabetically, because I really could not decide on a favourites' order. The descriptions are quite brief, and do not contain too many details of places to visit, but just a few words
Brugges, Belgium
Perhaps less imposing than cosmopolitan Brussels, or perhaps not a mainstream destination, Brugges is like a small, fairytale side of Belgium, in the Flemish part of the country. Medieval houses, Gothic churches, and water canals crossing the town, Brugges is all about atmosphere. Moreover, the city center is also recognized as UNESCO World Heritage. The atmosphere of times past is completed by shops full of wooden toys, porcelain dolls and traditional handicrafts. Not to mention chocolate - the finest Belgian chocolate, meant to make our stay even sweeter.
Budapest, Hungary
Moving towards central Europe, Budapest looks amazing in autumn colours, especially if the weather is still good. Situated on the Danube river, with its spectacular and diverse bridges, which automatically embellish the city, Budapest is a mix of monumental architecture and artistic lifestyle. Its markets are pitoresque and vibrant, with colourful embrodieries, traditional costumes, and flower motifs painted on wood. Not to mention that Hungarian cuisine is very tasty. My visit there was brief, but it's surely a city I would like to explore further.
Madrid, Spain
Although many of us would prefer Spain for summer holidays, I would suggest to go for seaside places in summer, and focus on the Spanish capital in autumn. Large boulevards animated by numerous people - locals and tourists, extremely friendly Madrilenos, specific Spanish architecture with some Arabic influences, the lively Gran Via and Plaza Mayor, Plaza Cibeles with the City Council, the Museo Nacional del Prado - all these must not be missed. Not to mention that you will be on a continuous diet of tapas and jamon. Ole! :)
We will be back in Part 2 with 4 more cities. What will they be? :)
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