VIENNA
Overnight on the train to the imperial city of Vienna (which 'waits for you' according to Billy Joel), where you'll linger in a coffee house, watch the Lipizzaner stallions, wander the pedestrian shopping streets and see a performance at the Staatsoper.
BUDAPEST
Just three hours away, Budapest also has a lively cafe culture, plus a vibrant mix of old and new. Be sure to visit Castle Hill and take a soak in one of the city's thermal baths.
BERLIN
A full day riding the rails brings you to the sights of Berlin, Europe's most rapidly changing (and exciting) city; must-sees include all the Berlin Wall galleries, memorials and museums, plus new city sights like the Sony Centre and Filmmuseum. At night Kreuzberg is the alternative nightlife hub, while Prenzlauer Berg is more grown up.
DUBROVNIK
You'll have to board a plane in order to be dazzled by the marble streets and red roofs of Dubrovnik, Croatia. By all means, first walk the city walls; the views over the town and sea are great. Explore the rest of the old town and take a seat at a cafe or along one of the beaches.
ATHENS
The Greek capital is a treasure trove of ancient ruins with the magnificent buildings of the hill-top Acropolis heading the list. Below it stand more impressive remains, plus bustling flea markets and lively tavernas giving you a taste of more modern Athenian life.
ISTANBUL
Once you've touched down you've reached the edge of Europe, where east meets west. In Old ?stanbul explore the Blue Mosque, Topkap? Palace and Aya Sofya. Then shop and dine in modern Beyo?lu, centre of the city's nightlife. A boat ride on the Bosphorus gives you the chance to step foot in Asia, looking back at the Europe you've just explored. |
