In our brief stop in Munich, Germany, we visited the BMW museum and hiked our way up to see the Neuschwanstein Castle. This particular castle is supposedly the castle that the Disney castle was modelled after. Unfortunately we weren't able to make our way up to the bridge that would have allowed us a better vantage point, but it was still a nice hike up to the castle, nevertheless.
Switzerland. What a place. Switzerland is up there as one of my favourite places I have visited yet, despite it's outrageous cost of living. We began our roadtrip through this peaceful nation, first stopping at Lake Geneva, then spending the night at a little cottage close by. The story of the trip might just be waking up the next morning to inches of snow covering a thick layer of solid ice on the ground and having to push our car up a hill. Despite additional unexpected encounters of racking up several traffic tickets and fleeing tolls, Switzerland was a good time. Driving through the mountain roads gave such a refreshing feeling and when I stood on the top of the Alps, everything felt so unreal.
We definitely couldn't afford to stay in Switzerland any longer than we did, but I'm glad to have recorded some of those moments.
With an extra day with a car after the Italy trip and before heading off to Switzerland, we spontaneously decided to take a day trip to Monaco and Nice, France. Just a few hours drive from Milan, we arrived in Monaco and it was 20 degrees. Monaco is known as the place with the highest GDP per capita, the second smallest and most densely populated country in the world.
After a few hours in Monaco, we quickly made our way to Nice to catch the sunset on the French Riviera. We didn't get much of a chance to explore the city but boy, was the beach beautiful.
Who has never wanted to visit Venice? The idea of a city on water instantly catches our attention. A few weeks ago I finally stepped foot on Venice myself and it was truly an unique experience.
We spent one full day exploring Venice and another day touring the smaller islands around Venice. We not only experienced the gondola ride but also tried one of the best pasta stores. The pasta is so popular that the store was forced to take down all their signage and have their windows frosted. I'm not sure if this is Italy is a free market after-all. Regardless, the 6 euro pasta takeout was honestly the best pasta I've had in my life and prompted us to go back a second and third time. One morning I woke up early around 6am to see the canals at sunrise and by 10am I had already walked through most of Venice. If you were ever to visit, I would recommend the Generator Hostel as the experience there was top-notch.
On the second day, we explored the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. The most memorable location was definitely Burano. Every single house on this little island was painted with a bright color, creating an almost fairytale experience as you stroll though it.
Cinque Terre? When people think of travelling Italy, the places that often come to mind are Rome, Venice, and Milan. Add Cinque Terre to that list please. Cinque Terre was definitely my favorite location throughout my Italy trip, and I think most of those that travelled with me would agree.
Cinque Terre encompasses five small towns located on the west coast of Italy, all five are similar in many ways (ie. the colorful houses), but they are also unique in other aspects so visiting all of them is a must. If you love hiking, then Cinque Terre is definitely for you. There are hiking paths connecting each of the towns, and the view is incredible. Trains are also available if that suits you.
We were so fortunate to have run into nice weather during the 2 days we were in Cinque Terre, blue skies and clear waters really did make a difference. Photos below.
