1. Paris, France: The Diva of Europe
Ah, Paris. The city of love, croissants, and people in trench coats smoking existentially. Sure, the Eiffel Tower is a stunner, but Paris is so much more than its Instagrammable landmarks. I spent four glorious days wandering the streets, eating my weight in pastries, and pretending I knew how to pronounce “boulangerie.”
- Must-Do: Skip going up the Eiffel Tower. The view of it from Trocadéro is chef’s kiss. Instead, spend your euros on a croissant-fueled picnic by the Seine.
- Fun Fact: The Louvre is so big it would take 100 days to see every piece of art…if you spent 30 seconds on each. I opted for a guided tour to avoid looking like a lost tourist clutching a map.
- Sassy Tip: Parisians don’t hate you, they’re just busy looking fabulous. Give them a smile (and step up your shoe game).
2. Prague, Czech Republic: Gothic Meets Gossip Girl
Prague is like that friend who’s cool, mysterious, and somehow knows everything about medieval history. The city’s cobblestone streets feel like stepping onto a film set—minus the modern-day cars ruining the aesthetic.
- Must-Do: Charles Bridge at sunrise. It’s the only time it isn’t packed with influencers and their tripods.
- Fun Fact: Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world. My calves have never forgiven me for all those stairs, but the view? Worth it.
- Sassy Tip: If someone tells you to try the absinthe, just say no. You don’t want to be that person trying to climb a 14th-century clock tower after a green fairy encounter.
3. São Miguel, Azores: Mother Nature’s Show-Off
Let’s get one thing straight: São Miguel isn’t a city; it’s an experience. The Azores are like Hawaii’s European cousin—lush, dramatic, and full of hot springs that make you forget all your problems (and your bank account balance).
- Must-Do: Hike around Sete Cidades. The twin lakes look like something out of a postcard, and if you’re lucky, you might meet a friendly cow along the way (I did).
- Fun Fact: São Miguel has more cows than people. Yes, I tried counting.
- Sassy Tip: Furnas hot springs are amazing, but beware of the sulfur smell—it’s the price you pay for soaking in nature’s spa.
4. Madrid, Spain: Tapas, Temples, and a Touch of Chaos
Madrid isn’t just a city—it’s a vibe. It’s late-night dinners, fiery flamenco shows, and locals who somehow make staying out until 3 AM look effortless. I fell in love with the energy, the culture, and (let’s be real) the churros.
- Must-Do: Prado Museum. Even if you’re not into art, Velázquez’s “Las Meninas” is worth a stop. Plus, the air conditioning is heavenly after wandering Retiro Park.
- Fun Fact: Madrid’s oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín, has been serving food since 1725. I had a roast lamb there and am still dreaming about it.
- Sassy Tip: Madrileños take their siestas seriously. Don’t be the tourist banging on a closed shop door at 2 PM.
5. Vienna, Austria: Classical Music and Killer Cake (My Pick!)
When you think Vienna, you probably think Mozart, palaces, and maybe even schnitzel. Well, it’s all that and a bag of Sachertorte. This city is like stepping into a time machine, except everyone looks impeccably modern.
- Must-Do: Visit Schönbrunn Palace and pretend you’re a Habsburg royal. Then, head to a coffee house for cake—because when in Vienna, calories don’t count.
- Fun Fact: Vienna’s coffee culture is so iconic, that UNESCO put it on their Intangible Cultural Heritage list. So yes, ordering that second espresso is cultural immersion.
- Sassy Tip: Dress up for the opera. Even if you’re sitting in the nosebleeds, you’ll feel like a star.
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