Tag: travel guide

Erkunde Würzburg – Die Perle am Main

Mainbrücke, Würzburg

Wie ihr wahrscheinlich in meinem letzten Artikel schon gelesen habt, war ich für einen Tag in Sommerhausen und bin jetzt zum ersten Mal für 2 Tage in Würzburg. So oft bin ich schon an Würzburg vorbeigefahren und jetzt werde ich hier auch mit Sicherheit wieder anhalten! Würzburg ist eine unterfränkische Stadt, die vor allem als Weinanbaugebiet und als Studentenstadt bekannt ist. Viele Weinsorten werden hier angebaut und in alle möglichen Länder verkauft. Die Studenten verleihen der Stadt die perfekte Atmosphäre für ein Glas Wein am Abend am Main oder auf der alten Mainbrücke.

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

As you may have read in my last article, I was in Sommerhausen for one day, and now I am in Würzburg for the first time for 2 days. I have passed Würzburg often already and now I will definitely stop here! Würzburg is a sub-Franconian town, mainly known as a wine-growing area and a student center. Many wine varieties are cultivated here and sold in all possible countries. The students give the city the perfect atmosphere for a glass of wine in the evening on the Main or on the old Main Bridge.

Mainbrücke, Würzburg

Ein Muss ist also der Besuch der alten Mainbrücke. Gerade bei Sonnenschein sammelt sich hier Jung und Alt, um zusammen zu quatschen, trinken oder auch nur die gemütliche Atmosphäre zu genießen. Als ich gerade auf dem Weg bin mir ein Eis zu kaufen, merke ich, dass die Menge nicht für ein Eis ansteht, sondern für Wein „to go“. Mir gefällt es, dass der Wein bis obenhin ins Glas gefüllt wird, die Kellner nicht schon bei 0,2 l aufhören und dann auch nur ca. 4,50€ für das Glas berechnen. Ich empfehle euch den Brückenkaktus, da er mal etwas anderes ist, als ein Aperol Spritz oder ein Hugo. Er schmeckt wahnsinnig erfrischend und sieht auch sehr cool aus!

A must is the visit of the old Main Bridge. Especially during sunshine, young and old meet here to chat, drink or just enjoy the cozy atmosphere. On the way to buy an ice cream, I notice that the queue is not for an ice, but for a wine “to go”. I love that the wine is filled up into the glass, the waiters do not stop at 0.2, and they only charge about 4.50 € for the glass. I recommend you the bridge cactus, since it is something else, as an Aperol Spritz or a Hugo. It tastes incredibly refreshing and also looks very cool!

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Neben leckeren Drinks erhält man von der alten Mainbrücke auch einen super Ausblick auf die Festung Marienberg und natürlich den Main. Diesen Ausblick solltet ihr auf alle Fälle nicht verpassen! Von der Brücke aus erreicht ihr direkt die Innenstadt. Vorsicht, wenn ihr an der Straße entlang geht, denn ab und zu fährt die Straßenbahn durch die Innenstadt. Wer also lieber gefahren wird, als 10 Minuten durch die Stadt zu gehen, kann auch gerne die Bahn nehmen. Aber ihr verpasst etwas!

In addition to delicious drinks, one gets from the old Main Bridge a super view of the fortress Marienberg and, of course, the Main. Do not miss this outlook! From the bridge, you easily reach the city center. Be careful when you walk along the street because sometimes the train goes through the city center. If you prefer to go more than 10 minutes through the city, you can also take the train. But you miss something!

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Die Innenstadt selbst ist nicht zu groß, aber auch nicht zu klein. Von Bekleidung, über Bücher, Schokolade und Wein – es befindet sich hier eine große Auswahl an Geschäften, um richtig Shoppen zu gehen. Auf dem Marktplatz ist dieses Wochenende „Weinfest“. Ich bin begeistert davon wie gesellig und freundlich die Franken sind. Wir setzen uns einfach dazu und geraten direkt ins Gespräch mit unseren Sitznachbarn. An jeder Bude gibt es köstliche Hausmannskost. Wer gerne Fleisch isst, sollte die Würzburger Bratwurst probieren oder die Fränkischen Dätscher, das Backwerk, dass besonders gut zu Bier und Wein schmeckt.

The inner city itself is not too big, but not too small. From clothing, books, chocolate, and wine – there is a wide range of shops to go shopping. On the market square, this weekend is “wine festival”. I am enthusiastic about how friendly the Franks are. We simply sit down and talk directly to our seat neighbors. If you like to eat meat, the Würzburg Bratwurst should taste the Fränkische Dätscher, the baking that is particularly good for beer and wine.

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Nur 10 Gehminuten vom Marktplatz befindet sich die Würzburger Residenz. Die ehemalige Residenz der Würzburger Fürstbischöfe gehört heute zu den bedeutungsvollsten Schlossanlagen des Barock in Europa. Ich frage mich immer wie es sich anfühlt in so einer Schlossanlage zu leben. Das Schloss kann  immer von innen besichtigt werden. Außen könnt ihr durch den großzügigen Garten schlendern und die umwerfende Gartenanlage genießen.

The Würzburg Residenz is a 10-minute walk from the market square. The former residence of the Würzburg prince-bishops is today one of the most important baroque palace facilities in Europe. I always wonder how it feels to live in such a castle. The castle can always be viewed from inside. Outside, you can stroll through the spacious garden and enjoy the stunning garden.

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Wer wie ich schon wieder hunger hat oder lieber am Main bleibt, sollte diese stylischen Locations besuchen. Wir sind durch Zufall bei zwei nebeneinander liegenden Restaurants am Wochenende gelandet. Warum? Die Lage direkt am Wasser bietet so eine schöne Kulisse, wenn man draußen sitzen kann. Aber auch von innen haben beide Restaurants ihren eigenen Charme!

If you like to go out for lunch or dinner, you should visit these stylish locations. We ended up by chance at two adjoining restaurants at the weekend. Why? The location right on the water offers such a beautiful scenery if you can sit outside. Also, in the inside, both restaurants have their own charm!

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Bei Locanda – Pizza & Pasta findet man eine riesige Auswahl an Pizza- und Nudelgerichten. Ich habe mich für Nudeln mit Scampis entschieden, außerdem gab es eine riesige Pizza. Locanda – Pizza und Pasta bietet zu den Hauptzeiten Happy Hour Preise an und ist im Allgemeinen auch sehr preiswert! Man sollte auf jeden Fall einen Tisch reservieren, da es immer sehr gefragt ist!

At Locanda – Pizza & Pasta, you will find a huge selection of pizza and pasta dishes. I chose noodles with scampis, and a huge pizza. Locanda – pizza and pasta offers happy hour prices at the main times and is generally also very cheap! You should definitely book a table as it is always very much in demand!

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Im Alten Kranen nebenan werden vor allem eher deftige Speisen serviert. Ich habe mich für einen Burger mit Pommes entschieden sowie Kaiserschmarrn mit Eis als Nachtisch. Das geschmackvolle Essen verwöhnt jeden Gaumen. Ich habe hier auch ein wahres Highlight entdeckt: frischen Himbeersaft! Ich habe noch nie solch einen leckeren, frisch zubereiteten Himbeersaft getrunken. Er ist ein wahrer Augenschmaus und dazu noch lecker und gesund! Unbedingt probieren!

In the old crane next door, hearty food is mostly served. I chose a burger with fries as well as Kaiserschmarrn with ice cream as a dessert. The tasteful food spoils every palate. I also discovered a real highlight here: fresh raspberry juice! I have never drunk such a delicious, freshly prepared raspberry juice. He is a real eye-candy and also delicious and healthy! You should try it!

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Bei schönem Wetter lohnt sich ein Besuch am Stadtstrand, der direkt am Main liegt. Hier kann man gemütlich mit einem leckeren Cocktail oder einem Glas Wein in der Sonne liegen und die Seele baumeln lassen. Hier kommt definitiv Urlaubsfeeling auf. Wer will, kann sogar Shisha rauchen.

When the weather is nice, you can visit the city beach, which is located directly on the river Main. Here you can relax in the sun with a delicious cocktail or a glass of wine. This is definitely a holiday feeling. Whoever wants to can even smoke shisha.

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Am Abend empfängt uns die Familie Hennig-Rink im Hotel Dortmunder Hof. Das familiengeführte Hotel nimmt jeden sehr herzlich auf, so dass man sich direkt wie Zuhause fühlt. Der Marktplatz ist nur 3 Gehminuten entfernt aber von Lärm ist nie eine Spur. Das Auto lassen wir bei der Lage natürlich auch stehen. Die Entfernungen in Würzburg sind wie für mich gemacht! Ich erkunde jede Stadt lieber zu Fuß, als mit dem Auto. So bekommt man viel mehr von dem Stadtleben mit.

In the evening, the Hennig-Rink family welcomes us. The family-run hotel welcomes everyone so that you feel directly at home. The market square is only a 3 minute walk away but noise is never a trace. Of course, we leave the car at the location. The distances in Würzburg are just the same for me! I’d rather explore every city by foot than by car. So you get much more of the city life.

Einen Abend bleiben wir natürlich auch in dem Hotelrestaurant, der Vinothek Tiepolo, die sogar auf Platz 4 von zahlreichen Restaurants in Würzburg ist, laut Tripadvisor. Vor allem das tolle Essen und die Gastfreundlichkeit werden hier super bewertet.

One evening, we also stay in the restaurant of the hotel, the wine store Tiepolo, which is even on place 4 of numerous restaurants in Würzburg, according to Tripadvisor. Above all, the great food and the hospitality are highly rated.

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

Davon haben wir uns selbst überzeugt und wir sind begeistert: Im urigen Restaurant wird die Karte vorgelesen und die Beratung ist individuell und überaus freundlich. Auch hier haben wir eine lokale  Weinempfehlung passend zu unseren Gerichten erhalten. Ich habe zuerst einen Antipasti Teller gegessen, anschließend Fisch (Seibling) mit Gemüse. Die Speisen sind wirklich super schmackhaft und die Küche verdient wohlverdient einen der vordersten Plätze der Würzburger Restaurants.

We have convinced ourselves of this and we are thrilled: in the rustic restaurant, the menu is read by the waiter and the advice is individual and very friendly. Also, here we received a local wine-tasting appropriate to our dishes. I first ate an antipasti plate, then fish (char) with vegetables. The food is really super tasty and the kitchen deserves one of the front seats of the Würzburger restaurants.

Würzburg, Städtetrip, Frankenmadl

 

 

Low budget breakfast & stay in Munich

Motel One, München, Städtetrip, Motel One Deutsches Museum, Munich

Munich is known as a costly holiday stay, but it doesn’t have to be. You can get the most out of your vacation with a low, holiday budget. I always say that nothing is impossible! How? You need to know the right place to stay at and what to do!

Where to stay?

Motel One at the German museum in Munich, offers the greatest service, quality, and location for a trip to Munich. The rooms are fresh, modern, and comfortable. You will not miss anything in your room. The prices start from 79€ per night.

Actually, it was the first hotel in which employees worked with a tablet to order a taxi or to register you for breakfast. I liked the innovative attitude. Before I arrived at Motel One, I was told that the breakfast is not the best, so I did not  have high expectations. When I arrived at the stylish breakfast hall, I was more than impressed! Motel One’s bio breakfast buffet tastes heavenly.

Motel One, München, Städtetrip, Motel One Deutsches Museum, MunichThe healthy morning meal costs only 9,50€ and externals can have the breakfast, too. You won’t find such a tasty breakfast with unlimited coffee, water and juices. It doesn’t matter at which Motel One hotel you are; you always get the same fantastic breakfast for the same price. So try it yourself in your city or if you have booked a hotel without breakfast!

What to do during Christmas time?

Since I went to Munich during December, I had to visit Christmas Markets. If you are in Munich for the first time, you have to visit the Christmas Market at Marienplatz, which is the centre and main shopping area of Munich. Admire the big Christmas tree and the wonderful town hall.

Marienplatz München, Munich

Another delightful Christmas market is the “Schwabinger Weihnachtsmarkt”. It is smaller than the one at Marienplatz but very cosy. The prices are also fair and the food is tasty! Try a Glühwein and an apple strudel with vanilla sauce. Hot cocktails are also yummy! You can either visit the Christmas markets during the day or around 4 pm. It won’t be dark around that time but if you stay until 5pm, you will see the Christmas markets during day and night-time. Have a look here for all Christmas Markets in Munich.

Where to eat?

All brew houses offer food at an affordable price but don’t visit the expensive ones around Marienplatz. They are only for tourists. Personally, I like all Augustiner breweries. Especially, the one in Arnulfstraße. In the morning, you have to try a Bavarian veal sausage and in the evening try a hock. My absolute favorite restaurant in Munich is “Neuhauser”. It just got refurbished and enlarged. You will find the best and biggest pizza, at restaurant Neuhauser. If you order a pizza ask for the garlic oil!

A unique weekend trip to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, 22 Hill Hotel, Room with a view, Hotel, Iceland

During the winter time, you either ask yourself if you should go skiing or fly into the sun. That’s not the only opportunity you have during autumn and winter. Don’t you want to do something different? Then you should definitely try Reykjavik! A short trip with unforgettable experiences of nature. As almost every trip to the sights start from Reykjavik; it is the best place to be!

How to get to Reykjavik?

I flew from Dusseldorf to Reykjavik by AirBerlin. The return ticket costs 250€, which includes one suitcase. I know that Eurowings, Wow Air and Icelandair also fly to Reykjavik and are cheaper most of the time. It is important to know that all international flights fly to Keflavik, which is 40 minutes away from the Reykjavik. Only domestic flights fly to Reykjavik airport. The bus from Keflavik to your hotel, in Reykjavik, costs around 20-25€ (one-way). You can either choose between Gray Line or Flybus. The public transport is not much cheaper and takes way longer!

Where to stay?

 Luckily, I could test one hotel and one apartment in Reykjavik. 22 Hill Hotel is in a great location, just off the main road to the city centre.

It took me around 10 minutes and I was already on the shopping street. The staff is extremely friendly, informative and helpful. Coffee is always free on each floor. Unfortunately, the WIFI was a bit slow, which is not too bad, because you surf less and talk more! My room was spacious and clean! I loved the big TV! If you have to leave early to catch a flight, you will get a “take away breakfast”.

I’m afraid that I was not really impressed by the breakfast hall and the breakfast itself but that’s only my personal opinion. The breakfast buffet had everything you need but it was not beautifully presented. Furthermore, the kitchen staff tried the marmalade with his knife just next to me. I really enjoyed the delicious bread!

Price range: 119€ – 269€

My absolute favourite was “Room with a view”.

I am still amazed when I think about the stunning apartment! The name says it all! The gigantic view over Reykjavik’s main shopping street beautified my stay. It was hard to leave the apartment for any sightseeing as it is so adorable!

At my last night I enjoyed a soothing bubble bath.

Reykjavik, 22 Hill Hotel, Room with a view, Hotel, Iceland

Price range: 130€ – 450€

 

Culinary delight

I ate the grill fish feast menu. The best of the menu was the starter, the Hallgrims Shellfish soup with scallop, blue mussel, shrimp and fennel. I also liked the grill fish combo and of course, the dessert. The atmosphere is really nice and comfortable. The friendly staff of the modern restaurant is more than helpful.

  • Glo, vegan and vegetarian restaurant

You almost always have a line when you go to the canteen style restaurant, but it is worth the wait and the line goes by quickly. All the salads are tasty and the portions are really gorgeous. My favourite is the chocolate cake with cream.

Find out more about what you have to do in Reykjavik in my article HERE.

The ultimate place for the Golden Circle tour in Iceland

Riding Tours South Iceland, Riding, Horse Riding, Icelandic Horse

The first question I asked myself when I heard about the Golden Circle: “what is the Golden Circle?” Well, just about some of the most amazing sights in Iceland! You can either book a Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik (there are loads of operators), or rent a car and drive the route by yourself, which is much more convenient, because you are able to stop at the countless stopping points along the route.

Car Rental, Route 1, Route 1 Car Rental, Iceland, Car

Here are the most important stops:

  • Strokkur Geyser

The fountain is located in the southwest part of the country. The entrance is for free, similar to all the natural attractions in Iceland. In front of the geyser, it took only about 4 minutes and I saw the first eruption. Then I had to wait another 7 minutes for the next eruption, which was directly followed by a small one. Its height was about 15 – 20 m but it can also be higher. You don’t have to worry that you will not see the eruption. It is one of the most reliable geysers I have ever seen. Be careful, the water is really hot.

  • Gullfoss Waterfall

One of the most impressive waterfalls I have ever seen and it is just a 10-minute drive from Geysir. The waterfall is so big! Even though some sections were covered in ice, it was an amazing sight. The stairs are quite slippery at the moment. The view is great from both platforms. Sometimes the lower part is closed due to weather conditions. On your way back you can buy some accessorises in the gift shop.

  • Thingvellir National Park

Personally, I could not make it to the UNESCO World Heritage but I have heard that it is wonderful and that you can see lakes, waterfalls and pure nature. Furthermore, it belongs to the Golden Circle tour.

 

Ultimate Place for the Golden Circle tour

Guesthouse Fludir is just 25 minutes away from the attractions mentioned above and 1 hour drive away from Reykjavik. The peaceful and beautiful environment will let you relax from your everyday life. I loved the river, which I could see from my balcony every day. My room was spacious and very clean. Especially the bathroom was excellent.

The freshly made breakfast was exceptional. During my seven-day stay in Iceland, it was the first time that I got a self-made smoothie and fruits. In addition, the breakfast included a variety of cheese, ham and hearing. Dinner can be taken, too, at the restaurant. The running people are very nice and helpful.

What to do in Fludir?

Riding Tours South Iceland, Riding, Horse Riding, Icelandic Horse

The secret lagoon is just 10minutes away. I have been horse riding at Riding Tours South Iceland. It has been the best experience during my whole trip. The staff was more than kind, so warm and friendly. The horses seemed so happy and healthy. I had the feeling that they all gave me a warm welcome. Marcus, who was my tour guide, was super friendly and always looked after to me, to make sure I was ok. The scenery during the riding tour was unbelievable. I always wanted to ride through the snow. I felt really safe on the horse and even it was cold outside, I was not freezing due to the ski suit. If you want to have an amazing experience, have a tour at Riding Tours South Iceland.

Have you ever heard of Hveragerði in Iceland?

Guesthouse Iceland, Guesthouse Reykjavik, Reykjavik, Iceland, Guesthouse Frumskogar, Hvergardi, Hotel, Accomodation

Avoid the expensive Reykjavik and visit Hveragerði with loads of thermal baths and greenhouses. Stay in a peaceful town to nature. Hveragerði is only a 35-minute drive from Reykjavik and it is a great starting point to visit main attractions in Iceland! To get to Hveragerði, you should rent a car. In general, it is cheaper to rent a car and explore the country this way if you are traveling with more than one. Furthermore, you are more flexible and able to make new plans if the weather condition changes. You can even spend several days in Hveragerði for hiking, playing golf, riding horses, visiting an art museum or culinary delight.

Guesthouse Iceland, Guesthouse Reykjavik, Reykjavik, Iceland, Guesthouse Frumskogar, Hvergardi, Hotel, Accomodation

Place to stay

I spent three days at an apartment, at the lovely Guesthouse Frumskógar. I really liked that a supermarket, a bakery, tourist information, gift shops, petrol station and restaurants were just 2 minutes away by car. It is a good base to visit the famous Golden Circle, which is an hour and a half drive away and to visit Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss Waterfalls and Reynisdrangar, which is about the same distance as the Golden Circle and also a beautiful route.

I lived in a spacious apartment with my own bathroom. The apartment was really clean, the Wi-Fi worked great as well as the heating. I liked the choice of books in the apartment. Every morning, I could listen to the stylish radio and in the evening,watch the television with candlelight and sip on delicious tea. The kitchen has everything you need for cooking a meal.

Outside you have the possibility to use the hot tub or steam sauna. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the time to use it. I loved that I could just park in front of the apartment.

An apartment for two people costs around 115€/night and a double room with a shared bathroom costs around 80€/night.

Where to eat?

Restaurant Hver at Hotel Ork, offers a very delicious à la carte menu or Christmas buffet during the holidays. I ate a slowly cooked lamb fillet, potato terrine, root vegetable and herb stock. As for dessert, I had chocolate mousse with homemade raspberry sauce. The tasteful and modern decorated restaurant has a really comfortable atmosphere and you will just feel good. The service is excellent! Very friendly and courteous.

Entertainment

Guesthouse Iceland, Guesthouse Reykjavik, Reykjavik, Iceland, Guesthouse Frumskogar, Hvergardi, Hotel, Accomodation

 One evening, I went to an exciting horse show at Fakasel Horse Park. The show is perfect if you want to know more about the history of Icelandic horses. A cat joined me on the tribune to watch the show, which made me feel good and comfortable. The show was about 40 minutes and the rider have made a great effort to entertain the audience. After the show, we could meet the horses and pet the horses backstage. If you are hungry before or after the show, you can have dinner or drinks at the restaurant.

Guesthouse Iceland, Guesthouse Reykjavik, Reykjavik, Iceland, Guesthouse Frumskogar, Hvergardi, Hotel, Accomodation

Price for the evening show:

Adults: Kr. 5.200.-

Children aged 0-12 years old: Kr. 2.600.-

 

How to crash your car in Iceland? Be aware of these 5 signs!

Car Rental, Route 1, Route 1 Car Rental, Iceland, Car

Actually, Iceland has only one main route… Route 1! The ring road goes around the whole island and is about 1330 km long. It is hard to get lost because this road connects all the villages on the island. Additionally, major attractions are by the route 1 such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Even though it is difficult to get lost, you have to be carefully if you drive in Iceland for your first time. Luckily, Íris from Route 1 Car Rental informed me about the roads in Iceland. Of course, you cannot remember everything what you are told not to do (at least I can’t) and you have to experience the roads by yourself.

Car Rental, Route 1, Route 1 Car Rental, Iceland, Car

If it is your first time in Iceland, I would recommend to rent a car like my Suzuki Jimny, which I got from Route 1 Car Rental. Why I recommend you a 4×4 for your first time? Well, if you are not used to the “off roads” and the signs, a small SUV will save your life! So it is worth it to pay around 86€ for a day! The pick up in Reykjavik is for free and it costs 18€ at the airport, which is still much cheaper than the fee of their compeitiors.

Be aware of the following signs:

  • Single lane bridge – Only one car can cross the bridge.
  • Gravel road – Honestly, if you are not used to it, drive especially slowly. Your tires can lose grip if you are too fast.
  • Pavement changes to gravel – A gravel road is coming up. Same rules as mentioned above.
  • Danger of sudden icy conditions – As it can be really cold in Iceland, icy really means icy!
  • Blind crest – I did not like this sign. It means that you cannot see what is coming! Keep on the right side of your road.

Don’t forget that all off-road driving is illegal! During the wintertime, roads can be very icy. Reduce speed if you are not used to this. Don’t just stop on the road for a picture. There are almost every place  for taking a picture. Check conditions before you start your trip because I did not and ended up in front of a road, which is closed during wintertime. It took me 40 minutes more to get to my destination. Call 112 for an emergency. And always remember to Fasten Ur Seatbelts!

Car Rental, Route 1, Route 1 Car Rental, Iceland, Car