Logo Reisemagazin
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Home Blog Page 11

Amsterdam: A city that has more to offer than just canals

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is known worldwide for its historic canals, vibrant cultural life and impressive architecture. But behind the well-known sights there is much more to discover.

Experience the art and culture of Amsterdam

From Rembrandt’s masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum to modern art at the Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam offers a wide range of cultural experiences. A visit to one of the city’s many museums is a must for those interested in culture. It is worth planning in advance which exhibitions and collections you don’t want to miss. Amsterdam is known for its diverse art scene and features both classical and contemporary works.

Art lovers can look forward to an impressive journey through different eras and styles. A walk through the streets of the city leads to numerous galleries and art exhibitions that offer a glimpse into Amsterdam’s eclectic art world. The Dutch capital attracts millions of tourists from all over the world year after year with its rich cultural history.

In addition to the famous museums, there are also many small galleries, studios and art houses that reflect the creative flair of the city. The variety of paintings, sculptures, photography, and other forms of fine art makes Amsterdam a true paradise for art-loving visitors. A highlight for many visitors is certainly the Van Gogh Museum, which offers a comprehensive overview of the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh.

The Anne Frank House is also a haunting reminder of dark chapters of history and the courage of a young girl during the Second World War. Amsterdam doesn’t just score with its well-known sights, but also with its well-known sights – there are also countless places full of artistic inspiration: from street art to designer markets to alternative venues such as the Westergasfabriek complex.

Insider tip Amsterdam Cards

For visitors who want to get the most out of their stay, the Amsterdam Cards can be a valuable resource. It offers free admission or discounts to many museums and attractions, as well as the use of public transport. An Amsterdam Card comparison of the different city cards is recommended to find the right option.

Navigating the historic canals

A canal cruise through the canals of Amsterdam is an unforgettable experience for any visitor to the city. The ride not only offers a relaxing atmosphere, but also a fascinating view of the architecture and life along the waterways. While gliding comfortably over the water, you can experience the history and culture of the city in a very special way.

Amsterdam, Houses
A trip across the canals is fun for locals and tourists, Image: Yasonya / shutterstock

The canal cruise is a popular activity not only for tourists but also for locals. Many Amsterdammers use the canals as a means of transport to get from one district to another quickly and comfortably. There is always the opportunity to look at the city from a new perspective and admire the beauty of the historic buildings and bridges.

Whether by day or by night, a canal cruise through Amsterdam is a special experience at any time of the day. The lights of the city are reflected in the water, giving the ride a romantic atmosphere. Whether alone, as a couple, with friends or family – a canal cruise is a must for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and charm of Amsterdam all around.

Hidden gems off the beaten track

Away from the busy streets and tourist attractions, you can experience the unique atmosphere of the city in Amsterdam. The hidden treasures invite you to let yourself drift and discover the real Amsterdam far away from mass tourism. In the small alleys and hidden corners, you can often find local shops, cozy restaurants and charming squares that give a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

A special highlight are also the numerous markets that take place away from the main roads. Here you can taste regional products, admire handmade works of art and watch the hustle and bustle of the locals. The variety and authenticity of the hidden gems make Amsterdam a city worth exploring off the beaten track.

Explore Amsterdam sustainably

Amsterdam, Bike
It’s really safe to ride a bike in Amsterdam, Image: Yasonya / shutterstock

The Dutch capital has become a pioneer in sustainability and is increasingly focusing on environmentally friendly measures. For example, there are many green initiatives that help reduce CO₂ emissions and protect the environment. The locals also support this development and are increasingly paying attention to a sustainable lifestyle.

With so many ways to explore Amsterdam in an environmentally friendly way, travelers can not only enjoy the beauty of the city, but also actively contribute to environmental protection. This makes your stay not only an unforgettable experience, but also a contribution to a greener future. Amsterdam shows that sustainability and tourism are compatible and can have a positive impact together.

Result

Amsterdam is a city full of contrasts, from world-famous museums to hidden cafes. Every visitor can find something to their taste here, whether they are interested in art, history or simply strolling through the picturesque streets. With the right planning and the right information, every visit to Amsterdam can be an unforgettable experience.

Holidays with the family: why is it important and how are harmonious holidays guaranteed?

Our everyday lives are usually characterized by stress and time pressure. Reconciling work with the family is a great challenge. Only rarely do parents enjoy hours together with their children, which – especially with offspring in adolescence – often leave a bad aftertaste due to disputes. Many mothers and fathers fear that family holidays could turn into a disaster. However, if you do it right, you can only benefit from it, because it is important for young and old.

Welding the family together

Experience has shown that shared experiences weld young and old together. A time-out leads to relaxation on both sides, suddenly all family members show a completely different behavior than at home. You get to know each other in a practically new way in changed life situations. To make this possible, parents and their children should do as much as possible together on holiday. This includes enjoying daily meals, relaxing hours on the beach and varied leisure activities.

Gain time together

Saving time is an important aspect during the holiday trip. Our everyday life is shaped by professional and school life, plus household, shopping and much more. After school, children often have to do a lot of homework. If there are hobbies on the agenda, the day is over without parents and offspring being able to talk in peace. A trip takes us out of the daily grind and finally allows us to spend a pleasant time together.

Charging batteries

At the latest when the travel preparations such as packing our suitcases are finally behind us, our energy reserves are usually used up. Holidays are the perfect opportunity to recharge our batteries and recharge our batteries. While parents and offspring relax together, all family members recharge their energy reserves. You benefit from this not only during the holidays, but also long afterwards – a harmonious coexistence at home is therefore on the agenda.

Take souvenir photos

Haflinger herds
In summer, you can discover huge herds of Haflinger on the South Tyrolean alpine meadows, Image: ON-Photography Germany / shutterstock

Today, the majority of the population has a smartphone with a good camera function. So it’s easy to capture funny and extraordinary moments forever on a picture. Whether you print them out at home or save them in your computer, watching them regularly is always fun for the whole family. In this way, the most beautiful moments in life are remembered and remain awake in us for a long time.

Learning for life on holiday

We hear again and again that travel broadens horizons. On every holiday we meet different cultures, customs and customs. Children often take great pleasure in learning foreign languages and showing off their newly acquired knowledge on site. The exotic tastes of foreign dishes can be tasted as well as unknown sports. For young and old, cosmopolitanism becomes a matter of course. The shared experiences and also the knowledge learned provide a first-class basis for a harmonious family life.

Choose a holiday destination together

It is impossible to make a generally valid statement as to when children should or can have a say in the choice of destination. It depends above all on their level of development, which varies greatly. Furthermore, it plays a role to what extent the offspring is also involved in family decisions in everyday life. Experts say that a child from the age of about 14 should be involved in decisions in all areas of life. To protect our youngest, exceptions confirm the rules.

Find the perfect destination

If opinions about the holiday destination are completely different, compromises should be found. The holidays are doomed to failure if one or the other family member “puts a good face on the bad game”.

Diversity in South Tyrol

Fortunately, there are a variety of offers today, which offer a wide variety of activities on the one hand, and a variety of relaxation facilities on the other. For example, the sports hotels in South Tyrol offer a fantastic selection of leisure activities:

  • Guided hikes
  • Accompanied e-bike and mountain bike tours
  • Golfing at the Pustertal Golf Club including shuttle transfer
  • Personal tour advice, shuttle service and equipment for snow hikes
  • Numerous services for skiing at Plan de Corones
  • Premium SPA with fitness, wellness and body treatments, also for kids and teens

South Tyrol has long been one of the most popular holiday destinations for families with children. The Italian region owes it both to its unique landscapes, including the fascinating Dolomites, and to beautiful cities worth seeing such as Bolzano, Trento and Bressanone.

Sun, beach and sea

Family
Enjoy your holiday together as a family, Image: Song_about_summer / shutterstock

If parents only long for relaxation, but children are bubbling over with energy, a satisfying holiday for everyone seems hardly possible at first glance. But this is not the case at all, at least if you consider the numerous travel destinations by the sea. Beaches alone offer an incredible number of opportunities to spend your holidays according to your own taste and needs.

Adults can make themselves comfortable on sun loungers and enjoy relaxing sun baths and refreshing sea baths. Stand-up paddling is possible at numerous holiday resorts – a popular and leisurely sport that also inspires many children. Depending on their age, mood and mood, the offspring – with and without parents – can take a surfing or diving course as well as take part in action-packed beach ball and other organized games.

For parents with small children as well as teenagers, a holiday in a well-equipped family resort is recommended. Young and old alike benefit from countless advantageous services and facilities, including:

  • Babysitters and toddler-friendly room facilities with high chairs, cots and more
  • Kids’ clubs, where the younger offspring are professionally supervised and entertained
  • Leisure programme for teenagers, including special entertainment, joint excursions, workshops, disco, etc.
  • Extra swimming pools for adults and children
  • Family sauna and wellness offers for young and old
  • Hotel’s own gastronomy, ideally with a varied buffet or children’s plates
  • Guarded private beach

Let your mind wander – these are the most picturesque holiday destinations in Austria

0

Whether culture, nature or culinary specialties – Austria has much more to offer than some might think. Get to know the most picturesque holiday destinations in Austria and plan your next trip.

The Tannheim Valley inspires connoisseurs and athletes

One valley – countless possibilities. Anyone who has ever been to the Austrian valley near the German border returns again and again. Whether you want to be pampered in one of the wellness hotels or are looking forward to your next hiking adventure, you will get your money’s worth 100 percent in the Tannheimer Tal. Hardly any other place manages to combine different factors so skilfully that all tourists feel completely comfortable.

In summer, you can take long walks through the valley and marvel at small lakes and streams. Hiking trails lead over the mountains and offer hikers breathtaking viewpoints over mountain tops and valleys.

In the winter months, the region is particularly known for its excellent ski slopes. A nature holiday can be wonderfully combined with a stay in a wellness hotel. A holiday at the wellness hotel in the Tannheimer Tal, where tradition and modernity meet, is recommended. It is a hotel that fits perfectly into the style of the region. When you enter the Sonnenhof, you immediately realize how unforgettable your stay in a wellness hotel can be. In the cold winter months, fires crackle in the fireplaces and the glow of countless candles bathes the rooms in a romantic, warm light. The rooms are cosy and modernly furnished. The high-quality panelling made of light wood stands out against the pretty flowers that stand out on small tables. The Sonnenhof’s offer is extensive and makes the connoisseur’s heart beat faster. If you are looking forward to good food, you are in good hands in the hotel’s own restaurant. Massages, pools and sauna invite you to relax and guarantee relaxation.

The town of Admont in the heart of Austria

If you want to get a feel for the culture of Austria on your trip, you should definitely visit the city of Admont. It is home to the largest monastery library in the world, with more than 70,000 books in its huge hall. The hall, with its white walls, golden decorations and beautiful ceiling paintings , is a testament to a bygone era. When you walk through the room and look up at the sky, you feel like you’re in a fairy tale.

In addition to the library, the Benedictine monastery of Admont also includes an art museum and a natural history museum. Anyone who buys a ticket for the monastery library will receive a free guided tour. The guides are excellent and take visitors on the tour back to bygone eras. They tell of secret passages and the history of the monastery.

In Admont, culture and nature can be excellently combined. After visiting the monastery and taking a walk through the city, you can explore the surroundings. The Gesäuse National Park is located in the immediate vicinity of the city. The Enns, a beautiful tributary of the Danube, flows through it. The national park is known for its breathtaking natural scenery. If you dare to take on a challenging hike, you should definitely visit the mountain hut, which stands at over 1,700 meters above sea level. It is the highest viewpoint in the national park, which offers impressive views.

Swim and dive in the Fernsteinsee near Tyrol

Not far from the border with Germany lies the crystal-clear Fernsteinsee. It is located in the middle of an extensive nature area and belongs to Tyrol. In winter, the region invites you to take long walks through the snow-covered forest, and in summer you can even dive in the deep blue lake.

In summer, the wooden boathouse attracts numerous visitors who rent a small rowing boat and look forward to a romantic day in the middle of the forest. In the winter months, when a layer of ice stretches over the surface of the lake, the boathouse is closed, but nature lovers still come to the small town. The snow stretches like powdered sugar over the roofs of houses and paths. The white of the snow contrasts sharply with the dark green of the fir trees that surround the lake and overgrow the mountain slopes. Austria, as you otherwise only know it from photos.

Bad Ischl still exudes the charm of the imperial era

Imperial Villa Bad Ischl
Imperial villa in Bad Ischl, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

Although it has been a very long time since the last Emperor of Austria gave up his share of state affairs, in Bad Ischl you can still feel the unmistakable charm of this era in every alley, no matter how small. If you are a fan of Empress Sisi , you will most likely already know the beautiful imperial villa and its surroundings from the film adaptations of the Empress’s life. Part of the villa, which was once the summer residence of the imperial couple, is still inhabited today by descendants of the Austrian imperial family. Most of the castle, which is located in the middle of a spacious park, can be visited by visitors.

The Kurhaus, which was almost completely destroyed in a fire in 1965, has been renovated and rebuilt true to the original in recent years with the help of special techniques. A special highlight in Bad Ischl is without a doubt the court confectioner Zauner, who once supplied the royal family with sweet pastries. In the historic rooms of the confectionery, you can still buy the pastries that were the emperor’s favorite.

Selected tours through Austria and other countries, where you can really unwind, can be found here.

Family holidays: tips for a successful trip with the kids

Vacation is primarily for recreation. Finally we have time to forget the stress of everyday life and let our minds wander. However, families with children often forget this principle, even when they arrive. In order for the family holiday to be a wonderful experience for everyone, it is important to prepare it well.

Planning the family holiday is the be-all and end-all

Family fun on the beach
Fun on the beach with the kids, Image: Sunny studio / shutterstock

There is so much to discover in the world – for us adults, but even more so for our children. A family holiday is therefore the highlight of the year for many families.

For a harmonious holiday with the kids, it is first important to find out what each individual family member wants and hopes for from the holiday together. Both adults and children are allowed to wish for something that should be implemented later. So everyone is particularly looking forward to the upcoming holiday.

The best way to discuss holiday wishes is in a relaxed atmosphere, for example while playing together. Here you can also talk wonderfully about the holiday destination. Once the family has agreed on a destination, the actual preparation begins for the parents. The aim is to make the holiday as beautiful and stress-free as possible for everyone.

The following questions, among others, need to be answered when preparing for a family holiday:

  1. Are the accommodation and the immediate surroundings child-friendly and equipped with playgrounds for the little ones, for example?
  2. What sights and excursion destinations are nearby?
  3. Are there bad weather alternatives?
  4. What are the catering options in the accommodation and in the surrounding area?
  5. Is there childcare on site?
  6. Which journey is the shortest?

For a successful holiday with the family, general planning is very important. But there should also be room for spontaneous ideas. In addition, it should be noted that all journeys with children take longer, especially with toddlers and babies. Challenging hikes or sightseeing tours are better done without children or later. Older children are very enthusiastic about hiking and cycling tours in the mountains, for example. An active holiday with teenagers, for example in South Tyrol, is just the thing here.

For the little ones, there should be small, exciting highlights everywhere if possible. This can be a playground, a climbing tower or a fun pool. Basically, if the kids are busy, the parents have a more relaxing holiday.

 

Receive a deposit in an online gambling store – Paysafecard alternative in case of phishing attacks

In the recent past, phishing emails from fraudsters have become more and more frequent. Only recently, the target of the attacks was once again the payment service provider PayPal. In an email to the addressees, it was claimed that access to PayPal was restricted because a deposit was made via the account in an “online gambling store”. Of course, this is a brazen lie by the fraudsters, who want to lure out the user data of the addressees. The crucial question is: What are the options for depositing your money safely at an online casino?

What is phishing and what can be done about it?

In order to take action against phishing, it is important to know which opponent you are dealing with and what can be done about it.

The term “phishing” means that the data of Internet users is intercepted. This can be done in a wide variety of communication channels. By far the most common attempt is made in the form of fake e-mails. This is followed by fake websites and short messages via WhatsApp or SMS. Often, however, these detours are no longer necessary. Namely, if the phishers succeed in intervening in the communication between users and systems with the help of so-called malware.

The goal of phishing is to get the login data, i.e. the username and password, to a specific system such as online banking. The transfer of large amounts of money to other people’s accounts results in high financial losses. In addition, one’s own online reputation can be severely damaged. For example, if stolen goods are suddenly auctioned off via one’s own account on an auction platform on the Internet.

The first advice of the experts in these cases is usually to be careful and use common sense before following the instructions of an e-mail. But the methods of the fraudsters are becoming more and more perfidious and professional and often the tricks are no longer so easy to see through, even for experienced users. However, there are still a few clear signs that indicate that a message is a phishing attack:

  • Impersonal or incorrect salutation
  • Incorrect response
  • An unreasonable period of time with the threat of a consequence (e.g. blocking of the credit card)
  • The request to fill out a form
  • The request to enter a TAN

This at least offers basic protection against general phishing attacks. However, the gamblers in the online casinos are additionally unsettled by the numerous attacks. You are wondering: how can I continue to play at an online casino without fear of my data being stolen?

How can players protect themselves in online casinos?

If you want to play in the online casino for real money, you first have to deposit money into your customer account. Ideally, the amount should be transferred from a computer that is as secure as possible.

For example, if you don’t want to do without your beloved slot machines on holiday in Poros in Greece or on Marsa Matrouh in Egypt , you should top up your account accordingly at home. Because in a foreign Wi-Fi network and possibly also with an unknown PC or laptop, the risk of one’s own data being intercepted by fraudsters is much greater.

However, the most important factor to consider is the available payment methods of the respective provider. Among other things, the various online casinos offer the following options for depositing money:

  • Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, American Express etc.
  • EC cards: Maestro, Visa Electron, Delta etc.
  • Prepaid cards: Paysafecard
  • E-wallets: PayPal, Neteller, Skrill
  • Direct bank transfer: Giropay, instant bank transfer

When comparing the individual payment methods, Paysafecard is the safest way to protect yourself from possible phishing attacks when depositing money in your customer account, according to the besteonlinecasinos.com . The reasons for this are manifold.

What are the advantages of making a deposit at the online casino with Paysafecard?

Paysafecard
Transactions with Paysafecard are almost as easy and secure as paying with cash., Image: Sulastri Sulastri / shutterstock

The Paysafecard is a payment based on a credit balance. The big difference to most other payment methods is that no account details or credit card numbers have to be entered on the Internet. Thus, they cannot be stolen by potential fraudsters.

The Paysafecard can now be bought in over 500,000 brick-and-mortar stores and in many online shops. The credit on it can be used to pay in many online stores or to top up credit on the customer account in an online gambling store.

The function is roughly comparable to a prepaid credit card. Payments can only be made with the available credit. Over-indebtedness is impossible. The greatest possible damage is therefore the theft of the current credit. And even that will be very difficult. For payment, it is necessary to enter a 16-digit PIN, which is located directly on the card.

The Paysafecard not only offers increased security against tricksters, but also protects privacy. That’s why it is often used for payments that should not appear on the account statement of the current account.

The card can be topped up with amounts ranging from 10 to 100 euros. However, if you want to make higher investments, you can also do so with Paysafecard. This is because several cards can also be combined with each other for payment. Almost as easy as placing several banknotes on the cash counter when making a cash payment.

Which online casinos in Germany accept a deposit with Paysafecard?

In the meantime, many operators of online casinos have recognized how popular the Paysafecard is with their customers and therefore offer it as one of several possible payment methods.

Some of the best and most reputable online gambling stores that accept Paysafecard in Germany include:

  • Vegadream
  • Locowin
  • Slothunter
  • Sugar Casino
  • G-Slot
  • Woopwin Casino
  • N1
  • EU Slot
  • North Slot
  • Rant

Particular attention should be paid to the welcome bonus that providers grant their customers when making a first deposit with Paysafecard.

At Vegadream, for example, the bonus is up to 1,650 euros, depending on the amount of the deposit. In addition, the provider also grants 300 free spins. Locowin is even more generous. Here, depending on the deposit, the bonus is up to 1,850 euros and 500 free spins.

 

Tuscany – the underrated destination for beach lovers

0

When you think of Tuscany, you often think of green landscapes, spectacular art collections or medieval towns and villages. But the Italian region has much more to offer and so the attractive holiday region also enchants with fantastic beaches. Whether lido, natural beach or lonely bathing bay, along the charming coastline of the region, everyone will find their personal paradise for a relaxing beach holiday.

In addition to the picturesque coastline of Tuscany, which can be divided into the north coast, the Etruscan coast and the south coast, the 7 islands of the Tuscan archipelago also attract visitors with magnificent beaches. The Tyrrhenian Sea and thus also the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago, Europe’s largest marine park, is part of the Mediterranean Sea and inspires with its high water quality. But it is also the charming seaside resorts, picturesque coastal towns, the dreamlike landscapes, family hotels in Tuscany, as well as the cultural offerings and the excellent regional cuisine that make a beach holiday in Tuscany an unforgettable experience.

North coast – fine sandy beaches at the foot of the Aquanic Alps

The north coast of Tuscany inspires with its miles of sandy beaches. On the gently sloping and mostly fine sandy beaches, families with children feel just as comfortable as water sports enthusiasts and sun worshippers seeking relaxation. From Forte dei Marmi and the nature reserve of Migliarino lies the Riviera della Versillia, which is considered particularly charming, because here not only the fine sandy beaches but also the charming natural landscapes with their Mediterranean flora and fauna inspire. Among the most beautiful places on the north coast are Marina di Masa, Cinquale and Forte dei Marmi with its beautiful sandy beach, beautiful gardens and picturesque townscape. It is also worth visiting Carrara, one of the oldest towns in Italy and known for its marble quarries. Another highlight are the thermal baths of Versilia.

Etruscan Coast – the varied coastal landscape

Well-kept sandy beaches and rugged cliffs alternate along the Costa degli Etruschi. This makes for a varied and, above all, charming landscape. In addition, there is the hilly hinterland, characterized by pine forests and picturesque medieval towns. Seaside resorts such as San Vincenzo, Marina di Castagneto Cecina, Donoratico, Piombino, Vada and Quercianella inspire with their fantastic stretches of beach.

South coast – pristine natural landscapes meet beautiful bays and beaches

With a length of 130 km, the south coast of Tuscany has a lot to offer. Nature reserves such as Parco regionale della Maremma are just as enchanting as the picturesque fishing and seaside resorts along the coast. One of the most beautiful places is the former fishing village of Castiglione della Pescaia, which is known for its beautiful sandy beach and small bays. The town is also an attraction for sailors, as is the picturesque harbour town of Punta Ala.

The Tuscan Islands

It is not only along the coast of Tuscany that there are fantastic beaches that invite you to swim, splash around, sunbathe and enjoy sporting activities. The beaches and coves of the seven islands of the Tuscan Archipelago are also particularly magical. Located in Europe’s largest marine park, these are a delightful alternative to a beach holiday on the mainland.

Elba is not only the most famous, but also the most historic island in the archipelago. But Montecristo, Giglio, Capraia, Pianosa, Giannutri and Grogan are also worth a holiday. With its fantastic natural beaches, Montecristo, the “wildest” island in the archipelago, invites you to a particularly charming beach holiday. The volcanic island of Capraia, on the other hand, enchants with many beautiful bays. Ultimately, each of the islands offers good conditions for a carefree beach holiday and yet each of the islands has its own charm.

Picture-perfect beaches – the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany

Castiglioncello / Livorno

Crystal clear water and dreamlike bays provide pure bathing pleasure around the medieval town of Rosignano Marittimo. Framed by cliffs, the bays also attract surfers, as the surfing hotspot Rocky Point is not far away.

Viareggio / Lucca

Viareggio
Viareggio, Image: StevanZZ / shutterstock

One of the most beautiful and longest beaches can be found near Viareggio, the smallest coastal town in the country. Several kilometres of sandy beach and clear water invite you to an unforgettable and relaxing beach holiday. Especially those who love it comfortable and value a varied culinary offer near the beach will love this beach.

Punta Ala / Grosseto

At the small, almost sleepy coastal town of Punta Ala, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the island of Elba from the fine sandy and natural sandy beaches. The turquoise blue sea and eight kilometres of beach ensure that every beach lover really feels at home here.

Cala Violina / Grosseto

Small but nice, that’s how Cala Violina can be described. The beautiful bay is framed by two rocky outcrops and promises carefree bathing pleasure. Located in a nature reserve, the bay is natural and has a fabulously beautiful and diverse underwater world, so that snorkelers and divers also get their money’s worth here.

Result

Tuscany is a particularly charming destination, especially for a beach holiday. In combination with the cultural richness, the culinary delights and the picturesque towns and historic towns, a beach holiday in Tuscany is a special experience and opens up a whole new view of the region

5 particularly beautiful destinations in South Tyrol

0

“We should spend our holidays in South Tyrol.” This, or something similar, is probably how quite a few holiday conversations begin at the table at home. And it quickly becomes clear: South Tyrol is not South Tyrol and the possibilities to spend your holidays there are incredibly diverse. So many areas and towns attract travellers that the decision is anything but easy. Especially since there is hardly an “eyesore” in the region. To make the decision a little easier, this article suggests five destinations that are always a good idea.

1. Lake Caldaro: Bathing fun for the whole family

Especially in summer, Lake Caldaro can already be described as a paradise for water lovers. Lake Caldaro is one of the largest lakes in South Tyrol and is also one of the warmest lakes in the entire Alpine region. The water reaches up to 28 degrees in the summer months and the bathing season runs from May to late September. What else speaks for this goal?

  • Lidos – five large lidos extend along the lakeshore. From there, they also go into the water. The pools offer all kinds of other attractions, such as surfing and sailing schools, pedal boat rentals and children’s playgrounds.
  • Villages – Caldaro and Termeno are particularly well-known. The villages are located directly on the lake or nestle on its shore. The accommodations and other attractions are also located there.
  • Accommodation – from hotels to guesthouses to campsites, everything is there. Even luxury resorts are located on the lakeshore. The best example: this hotel right on Lake Caldaro with a pool and everything you need for a pampering holiday.

One of the great advantages of this holiday destination is the location itself. The lake is located just under 15 kilometres from Bolzano and offers the ideal starting point for hikes. In addition, it attracts holidaymakers all year round.

2. Merano and environs: Many excursion destinations and special flair

Trauttmannsdorf Castle
Trauttmannsdorf Castle, Image: Simone Crespiatico / shutterstock

The Merano region is frightened from Merano north to South Tyrol. Many smaller villages invite you to linger or to stay longer. Merano itself offers almost the ideal mixture of a romantic-historic old town and modern flair. Furthermore:

  • Spa town – Merano is a spa town known for its thermal baths. One of the most famous baths is located directly at Merano Castle, right next to the botanical gardens.
  • Excursions – from Merano you can explore the entire Merano region. Like the whole of South Tyrol, this region also lures you out into the open air and appeals particularly to active holidaymakers. Hiking, walking, cycling, climbing or even a trip with the Flying Fox are possible.
  • A year-round highlight – Merano and the Merano region are holiday destinations for the whole year. In winter, winter sports are of course the top priority.

Culturally, Merano and Environs offers further advantages. Many hikes take up cultural references and are therefore declared as themed hikes. Art and culture can be admired at virtually every step.

3. Bolzano: Food culture and many sights

Bolzano Vineyards
Vineyards in the Bolzano region, Image: StevanZZ / shutterstock

The capital of South Tyrol boasts Mediterranean flair and climate. In fact, the alleys are partly lined with palm trees. Bolzano is particularly suitable for a city trip, but the destination is also ideal as a starting point for excursions in southern South Tyrol:

  • Location – Bolzano is located about 15 kilometres from Lake Caldaro and 25 kilometres from Merano. The location explains why Bolzano is a suitable starting point for excursions.
  • Attractions – Museums, palaces, castles and churches – Bolzano has a lot to offer. Despite the relatively small size of the city, the number of churches is high. The Franciscan church and the monastery are always worth a visit.

4. Val Venosta: Famous reservoir and historical sites

The Vinschgau Valley connects to the Merano region and reaches up to the Reschen Pass. The church tower, which stands in the middle of a lake, is particularly well-known. The region is characterized by gentle valleys and rugged mountains. Some highlights:

  • Glorenza – it is the smallest town in the Southern Alps. It is considered a surprising and medieval jewel, because the ring wall with city towers and Diagon Alleys has been preserved to this day.
  • Martell – if you stop for the strawberry festival, you can taste the famous mountain strawberries directly. The municipality consists of summit parts and low villages.

Near Martell is the Plima Gorge, which today offers a family-friendly trail.

5. Val Passiria: Nature in its most beautiful way

The Passeier Valley also stands out for its nature. Nature reserves line it, as well as the many hiking trails for inexperienced and experienced hikers. The Passeier Valley is a holiday destination for the whole year. While hikes and excursions up to the peaks dominate in summer, the ski resorts await in winter.

  • Slopes – The slopes open at the beginning of December and remain open until Easter.
  • Ski resorts – two ski resorts are available to holidaymakers. Pfelders is particularly appreciated for its snow reliability and offers fun for beginners and professionals. 18 kilometres of slopes are available. In Racines-Giovo there are 25 kilometres of slopes and a fun park.

Of course, the cross-country ski slopes and toboggan runs are not missing. When the snow has melted, the slopes are transformed into hiking routes on which hikers and climbers can climb to the peaks.

Decide with peace of mind: South Tyrol is worth more than just a trip

It is not easy to decide on a destination in South Tyrol. Therefore, holidaymakers should think about what is particularly important to them and how they would like to spend their holiday as much as possible. Do you want to go out into nature or are longer stays in thermal baths desired? Are children also travelling with you? South Tyrol is extremely family-friendly, but it is advisable to rely on family hotels when looking for accommodation. They not only offer playgrounds, but often childcare so that parents can spend a day alone.

Conclusion – From traveler to South Tyrol fan

Sometimes a large selection makes the choice difficult. This wisdom certainly applies to South Tyrol, because there is no place that is not suitable for a holiday. The Caldaro region is ideal for water lovers, the Passeier Valley for hikers and skiers, the Merano region combines all this with culture, cities and proximity to larger towns. Good accommodation, on the other hand, is provided everywhere.

Which islands are part of the Balearic Islands?

The Balearic Islands are made up of several island groups, a total of about 150 individual islands. These are classified in different archipelagos.

Formentera and Ibiza belong to the Pitiusas. While the Cabrera Archipelago, Menorca and Germany’s favourite holiday resort Mallorca belong to the Gymnese Islands.

The language spoken in Spain’s Mediterranean islands is divided between Spanish as spoken in Madrid and Catalan from Barcelona. By the way, the name of the Balearic Islands also has Catalan origin.

A long time ago, the Balearic Islands were defended from attackers with a slingshot, which had the name “Els Foners Balears”.

Meanwhile, the islands are among the hottest travel destinations in the western Mediterranean, which is not surprising. Wonderful sunsets, beautiful bays and nature as far as the eye can see can be expected here as a holidaymaker.

The activities on the Mediterranean islands are varied and range from strolling through the shops to discovering numerous landscapes. Water lovers are also catered for with plenty of opportunities for water sports.

Menorca and Formentera are among the smaller islands, while Ibiza and Mallorca are among the two largest.

Ibiza has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its culture. But Mallorca also knows how to convince, because the capital Palma has, among other things, a beautiful cathedral and much more.

How to get to the Balearic Islands?

Palma de Mallorca, La Seu
La Seu, the impressive cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

To get to the Balearic Islands, they have two options.

On the one hand, these are easily accessible by plane from almost every airport in the world.

Because on the islands, the airports in Menorca, Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca are among the most important. Note that Formentera and La Cabrera do not have an airport and can only be reached by sea.

On the other hand, you have the option of getting to the Balearic Islands by ferry . Domestic tours between the Mediterranean islands are also offered.

If you decide to travel by sea from France to the Balearic Islands, you can take the ferry from Toulon.

Spain offers another departure option. There is a ferry from the following ports:

  • Barcelona
  • Denia
  • Valencia

Discover many countries on holiday with the comfort of a hotel – cruises make it possible

If you want the all-round service of an all-inclusive hotel on holiday, but want to visit several places or even countries at the same time, you should think about cruises. On the luxuriously equipped ships, no culinary wishes remain unfulfilled, while at the same time shows, cinema, sports and pools are available.

Travel to many places in the same hotel room

Cruises have become increasingly popular in recent years and the industry has experienced a real boom. The decades before that, there were also cruise ships for a long time, with trips on these floating luxury hotels quickly costing up to 10,000 euros.

In the meantime, cruises are also an affordable pleasure for package tourists. Especially for cruises through the Baltic Sea, in the Mediterranean or around the Canary Islands, costs are comparable to a “normal” trip.

The biggest special feature of a cruise is of course the stay on a gigantic ship, which in most cases is not only larger than a hotel on land, but also offers a wide range of activities. The unbeatable advantage of a cruise: You experience days at sea on the sea, but always head for other beaches, islands or countries. In order to travel to several places or even countries and regions on vacation, you have to take a round trip without a cruise ship.

Such a round trip can either be booked as a package tour with guides, flights and means of transport or you can organize it yourself. The disadvantage of this type of travel: You are constantly under time pressure, spend many hours in cars, buses, trains or planes. For adventurous people who don’t let anything stress them out and also like to enjoy a bit of action on vacation, such a round trip through Vietnam or other countries is a lasting experience.

If, on the other hand, you want to see different countries, beaches and islands on vacation, but want to make the transfer times much more pleasant , a cruise ship is the right place for you. The ships sail, for example, in the evening and at night, where on a classic round trip by land you tend to spend the night in a new hotel completely exhausted every day.

Cruises – thematically or regionally an experience

If you are interested in cruises, you can either determine the best trip based on the destination or make the right choice under a certain theme of the trip. Regionally, there are trips to the following regions:

  • Asia
  • Canary Islands
  • Mediterranean Sea (East, West, whole Mediterranean)
  • Caribbean
  • North cape
  • Baltic Sea
  • World trip
Cruise ship in the evening
A relaxed sun deck with pool during the day, a promenade in the evening, a disco or an outdoor cinema in the evening – on cruise ships you can unwind or experience something around the clock, Image: Anutr Yossundara / shutterstock

For beginners, short cruises within usually 7 days through the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean or the Canary Islands are a practical idea. For Asia, the North Cape or the Caribbean, travelers should better plan 14 days of vacation. Usually, the cruisers first fly to the country where the cruise ship is anchored. There, all passengers board the ship and check in as if they were in a hotel. This is followed by get-to-know-you events and members of the crew provide information about orientation and what is on offer on the ship. At the same time, passengers can decide on the ship or when booking whether they want to take part in guided excursions or prefer to explore the day’s destination on their own.

But cruises can also focus on very different topics . For example, you can find the following cruises on a cruise ship with these focuses:

  • Family cruise
  • Senior Cruise
  • Singles tours
  • All-Inclusive
  • Last-Minute

In a multifaceted variety, there are also special trips, where, for example, a rock festival is moved to a cruise ship . Other cruises are dedicated specifically to golf fans and head for ports during the trip where impressive golf courses can be played for a day trip. At the end of the journey, the cruise ship will dock in a port as planned, from where it will take a shuttle bus to the airport and back home. All this can be conveniently booked like a package tour and as a holidaymaker you hardly have to worry about anything after the start of the trip.

The cruise ship itself is worth a vacation

Without exception, every cruise ship is designed so that guests can feel completely comfortable on it . Although the cabins are much smaller compared to a normal hotel room – but you only stay in them to sleep anyway.

Cruise ships always offer a variety of different culinary offerings. There are usually several restaurants where Italian, French or other national cuisine spoils the guest with menus. Here reservations and fine wardrobe are requested. At the same time, buffet restaurants are usually open 24 hours a day, leaving nothing to be desired. Open show kitchens fry and fry different dishes every day, while every palate is satisfied, from colourful salads and seafood to ice cream and desserts. In addition, there are ice cream and snack bars on deck, various small restaurants with snack bar character and bars with drinks everywhere.

On cruise ships, however, there is not only good food and there is always a colorful cocktail to be had: The sports offer ranges from table tennis to ball sports in the ship’s own gym to the gym with all known equipment. If you like jogging, you will find marked lanes all over the ship.

Culinary delights and sports are then joined by a varied entertainment programme. A reading or a film in the cinema hall, a revue or show in the atrium, all-day painting courses and other creative offers – you almost have to be careful not to take on too much on holiday on the ship. Boutiques, hairdressers and duty-free shops, sometimes even a casino – cruise ships are small towns on the high seas.

 

To the perfect holiday with the right travel planning

If you want to see as much as possible on your holiday, you have to choose a route that includes many destinations. Most travelers then resort to one of many offered boat trips, as it allows you to travel comfortably from one place to the next without changing the means of travel. But such a ship is not always affordable or a ship can reach destinations that you have chosen yourself. You are bound to fixed routes. If you want to be free on your travels, it’s best to plan your trip yourself from scratch. This is how the most beautiful and adventurous breaks from everyday life succeed!

Tips for stress-free travel planning

How to plan a trip also needs to be learned or well organized. Because spontaneous bookings or ideas don’t always help to design the perfect trip. We have collected tips here that are guaranteed to help you plan your trip stress-free.

Tip 1: What are the expectations of the trip?

To find out where you want to go, you should first decide for yourself what you expect from the trip. Do you want to spend a beach holiday by the sea, lie in the sun for many hours and just make yourself comfortable with a cocktail or a good book or do you expect many sights, maybe even adventure, definitely action and wanderlust? Depending on the personal expectations attached to a trip, the destination must also be chosen. Let’s continue with the journey itself: if you travel alone, by what means do you want to travel, how many hours do you want to be on the road (at the most), etc. All these questions can help to narrow down potential travel destinations.

Tip 2: Is there a specific date for the trip?

If it is clear from the beginning in which period (and at what time of year) you want to travel, a destination is also quite easy to identify. Going to a winter destination in winter that offers special ski resorts or going to a country in the summer months where it is not exactly over 40 degrees makes the destinations narrow down here as well.

If there is no specific date for the trip, you should consider a few things:

When is the best time to travel?

There is always a high season and a low season. The high season or high season for travel is usually during the holiday months and is therefore easy to determine. The low season is outside of this. Depending on how high the budget is, you can also switch from the high season to the low season (this is especially advisable if you don’t have school-age children or you don’t want to travel to crowded resorts).

Which season suits best?

Depending on which country you want to travel to, you also have to consider the different seasons, because it is not always summer there when it is summer in Germany .

Tip 3: What do I want to experience and what can I book in advance?

Of course, you can see what you want to do on site, but you can also save yourself this (precious) vacation time and do the necessary research from home with the help of tourist information offices of the respective country, travel guides or even travel blogs. Tickets for attractions are booked quickly and usually land digitally on the mobile phone. Not only sights, but also tickets for transport options at the destination can be booked from home. For example, if you travel to Barcelona, you can save money there with the Barcelona Card (an online comparison of which card is best suited to your own needs is worthwhile!).

It is also helpful to obtain information from the Foreign Office, because there are not only travel warnings, but also whether entry is subject to certain regulations.

Tip 4: Is your decision the right one for you?

This step is one of the most important and therefore also essential for travel planning: Information has been obtained, sights have been researched and the right dates have been found, but is this destination really what I want to visit now? Here it is important to think about it again carefully. If not, you start again at 0. If the decision fits, it’s time for the next step!

Tip 5: Book the trip and fix everything!

The trip is complete with the booking, so you choose carefully whether you determine the itinerary yourself and thus remain spontaneous or whether you hand over the planning to a travel agency. If you decide on the first option, you should always consult comparison portals when booking accommodation (or ask the accommodation itself) – there are usually price differences that you can take advantage of. Sights and maps for public transport can also be booked in advance and printed out or carried in digital form (please pay attention to what is recognised in the respective country).

Tip 6: You can’t do without a travel checklist!

When everything is booked and the trip is ready, the rest is actually just a formality: tackle the checklists and tick everything off one after the other.

There are many packing lists for the respective destinations or types, here you can carefully choose what you need yourself and what you don’t. Especially when traveling abroad , some regulations, such as the right travel document (visa or passport) and also the correct health care should be observed.

Safe travels!

If all our tips and tricks are followed, the planned trip can only become a good trip. We wish you a relaxing and stress-free holiday!