Europe - Destination Someplace

Back to the UK via Italy, Switzerland and France – Part 15

SSomewhere — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:50:28 +0000

Grand European Tour – We Head Back to Blighty!

This is the last in a series of blog posts detailing our 10-county trip around Europe on trains, buses, cars and ferries. All the posts highlight what we got up to (without the boring bits) along with some tips and helpful overviews should you wish to visit the destinations. You can see all the posts from this trip here.

The next day, Rome was, as usual busy. So after struggling to get a taxi for a while, we finally made it to Termini (the main Rome railway station), in time for our daughter to catch a train to the airport, and for us to catch the high-speed express train to Milan. The Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed Rome/Milan train is a relatively new route, and takes about 3 hours, reaching speeds of 300 kph. It was a very tranquil journey, you don’t notice the speed at all unless you are running parallel to an autostrada for a while and realize how quickly you are passing the nearby cars.

This post may contain affiliate links to things like hotels, tours or products. These help us earn a small commission at no additional charge to you and help keep the lights on at Destination Someplace.

USEFUL RESOURCES – EUROPE

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

Milan – Highs and Lows

On arriving in Milan, the first thing that hits you is how awesome the railway station is. On this trip, we had visited a lot of railway stations – the good, the bad and the ugly. Milan railway station, is, without any exaggeration, a beautiful building. It blew us away.

On leaving the station, we realised we were hungry, and made a schoolboy error – the one where you end up going to the first place you came across! On this occasion, it turned out to be touristy, expensive (even for Milan!), a bit pushy, and had mediocre food. By the time we ordered, we had realised our mistake – but obviously, it was too late by then.

To compound our mild irritation, we watched as the waiters tried to drag in every passing tourist, whilst at the same time informing the people who wished to pay that it was cash only, as their credit card machine was on the blink – this was irritating a lot of the tourists, who understandably (especially in a post-pandemic world) would want to pay with credit card. Maybe we’re a bit picky – but good customer service would have informed prospective diners of the credit card issues before they ordered.

We were in a similar position, with very little cash on us, so after checking the credit card machine really was on the blink we decided to pay with the only note we had on us, a 50 euro note (to pay for our 2 sandwiches and 2 small beers). Unfortunately, it turned out to be a forgery. So Barbara had to trot off to find an ATM, while I was held hostage at the restaurant (only kidding). Anyway, it wasn’t the most auspicious start to our overnight in Milan.

Our accommodation for the night – Vietnamonamour, however, was friendly and a little quirky and so makes our Top 5 Places we stayed on our trip list.

Google Leads The Way

Even our evening meal in Milan, went a little awry. We found a small little restaurant with great reviews on TripAdvisor not too far from our accommodation, so we let Google maps lead the way, and were soon settled down having a nice meal. It wasn’t until about halfway through the starter that we realised we were actually at the wrong restaurant, the one we’d actually been heading for was about a hundred yards further down the street! Oh well, maybe we’ll try that one on our next visit.

Strasbourg – Small and Perfectly Formed

We were up bright and early the next morning to catch our first connection, that would deliver us to Strasbourg later in the day. After boarding the very comfortable 9.10am at Milano Centrale railway station, we were swiftly on our way through the Alps, changing at Ath-Goldau and again at Basel before our final train of the day delivered us to Strasbourg on time at 15.39.

This was our first visit to Strasbourg, but it won’t be our last. It is a beautiful town, and small enough to easily explore by foot, which of course, we did, at the same time sampling the occasional local beer for which this part of the world is well renowned. Unusually for this trip, we had opted for a hotel and here we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express which is within walking distance from the old town, therefore very convenient for a quick overnighter.

Paris – But No Time to See The Sights

The next day, we said goodbye to Strasbourg and set off on the final leg of our trip, detailing on our Interrail pass that today we would be using our inbound journeys from France to England, which was a similar procedure we had to do at the start of our journey. I must admit we felt a little sad that this trip was coming to a close.

Getting back to England proved to be very straightforward on this day, but obviously it was going to be another long day. We’d toyed with the idea of putting in another overnight in Paris to break it up, but it hardly seemed worth the cost for a night, as we wouldn’t get much opportunity to actually see Paris. So off we went.

The high-speed train to Paris was a little late, but we’d given ourselves a little time in Paris for just such an eventuality, so it wasn’t a problem.
On reaching Paris Est railway station, the signs are pretty straightforward to get to Paris Nord – there are a couple of walking routes, we took the shorter one which includes some steps immediately after you leave the station. We could have taken the Metro but it’s only one stop and didn’t really seem worth it.

Eurostar – Back to Where We Started

The check-in at Paris Nord for the Eurostar was a civilised affair, and the departure lounge was comfortable and relaxed, unlike when we’d caught the Eurostar from London at the beginning of our journey. There was just time for a coffee and we were on our way back to Britain via a great bit of engineering and 50-kilometre tunnel running under the English Channel. Sometimes, technology is a wonderful thing.

Disembarking at St. Pancras International, just left us with a short walk across to Kings Cross where we hopped a train back to Yorkshire via a change in Doncaster (where coincidently Jarvis Cocker of the group Pulp got on the same train!). An hour or so later we were truly back up North, and oddly enough the statue of Philip Larkin was still at our home station to meet us, he still looked like he was going somewhere but had moved. We, on the other hand, were not going anywhere for a while, but we’d certainly moved.

Top Tips – Europe

Use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

For Hotels including self-catering apartments we use Booking.com, where you can filter by review score and many properties have a pay later/late cancellation policy should your plans suddenly change.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

The post Back to the UK via Italy, Switzerland and France – Part 15 appeared first on Destination Someplace.

The Top 10 Best Places in Europe for Over 50s Holidays

SSomewhere — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:33:57 +0000

As we all grow older, our priorities and preferences change (ours certainly have!). We often begin to seek out experiences that offer relaxation, comfort, and a chance to indulge in the finer things in life. Europe has always been a popular destination for the more mature tourist, and plenty of destinations within the continent cater specifically to the over 50s. This article will explore the top 10 best over 50s holidays in Europe.

With its rich history, diverse cultures, and beautiful landscapes, Europe offers a unique experience that can be enjoyed at any age. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, visiting world-renowned museums, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Europe has something for everyone. Additionally, many European countries offer excellent healthcare and safety standards, making it a comfortable and secure destination for older travellers. So, if you’re looking for a new adventure, consider Europe as your next destination.

OTHER USEFUL RESOURCES – EUROPE

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

Our Top 10 Best Places in Europe for Over 50s Holidays

Tuscany, Italy

Starting with one of the best European holiday destinations for the over 50s to holiday – Tuscany in Italy. This region in central Italy is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine. It is an ideal destination for those looking to relax and soak in the beauty of the Italian countryside. The region is home to stunning vineyards (and equally stunning wine!), picturesque villages, and historic cities such as Florence and Siena. The food and wine in Tuscany are exceptional, making it an excellent destination for foodies.

Where to stay in Tuscany

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Tuscany.

A couple of hotels worth considering are the conveniently located, Hotel La Gemma in the centre of Florence, or with its peaceful courtyard garden the Hotel Ariele is another excellent option.

Tuscany: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: Italian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: (Pisa) and also known as Peretola) in Florence.

Population: Approximately 3.8 million.

Crete, Greece

Crete is a Greek island in the Mediterranean – Another fantastic place for the over 50s to holiday. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands (3,260 square miles) and as such offers a diverse landscape, with stunning sunsets, picturesque villages, charming towns such as Chania and Rethymno (also known as Rethymnon), and beautiful beaches. It is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a chance to soak up the sun. The island is also home to world-famous archaeological sites such as Knossos and Phaistos, perfect for culture lovers. The island is more accessible than some smaller Greek islands, with regular flights and is easy to explore.

Where to stay in Crete

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Crete.

A couple of hotels worth considering are Domes Noruz Chania which is adults-only with easy access to the beach, or the serene bougainvillea-adorned Elounda Mare Relais & Châteaux Hotel with its fantastic views over the bay of Mirabello Bay.

Crete: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: Greek (English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: Heraklion

Population: Approximately 670,000

Provence, France

The Provence is a region in southeastern France that is well known for its beautiful lavender fields, picturesque villages, and world-renowned cuisine. A wonderful destination for anyone looking to relax and soak in the beauty of the beautiful French countryside. The region has stunning vineyards, historic cities such as Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, and beautiful beaches. An ideal European destination for all the Francophiles out there.

Where to stay in Provence

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Provence.

Located in the heart of the Provence region, Villa Gallici Hôtel & Spa is a popular option, or just outside the beautiful town of Avignon, the serene and peaceful Maison du Lac.

Provence: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: French (English is often spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: Marseille, Nimes, Nice, and Montpellier.

Population: Approximately 5 million.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s capital city and is located on the country’s western coast, on the banks of the River Tagus. The town is famous for its stunning architecture, pastel-coloured houses and world-renowned cuisine. Lisbon has many museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks like the Belem Tower (or the Torre de Belem, a 16th-century fortified edifice) and the superb Jeronimos Monastery. Bear in mind that many parts of Lisbon are very hilly, which may be challenging if you have limited mobility or reduced fitness, and in that case take a Hop-on, Hop-off tour of the city, or use the public trams which traverse the city – they don’t call it the ‘City of Seven Hills’ for nothing.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Lisbon.

A couple of hotels worth considering are the Pousada Alfama in the heart of the old city and within walking distance to many historical landmarks, or the chilled and friendly LUSTER Hotel is another excellent choice.

Lisbon: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: (English is widely spoken in tourist areas).

Main Airports: Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport).

Population: Approximately 2.87 million.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city located on the northeastern coast of Spain. The town is famous for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and world-renowned cuisine. One of the reasons why Barcelona is a top destination for the over 50s is because of its very laid-back feel. It is a superb destination for those looking to soak up the culture and history of Spain. The city has many museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. Barcelona is also enriched with Spanish culture and is proud of its Catalan traditions.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Barcelona.

A couple of hotels worth considering are the excellent, H10 Casa Mimosa 4* Sup in the centre of the city, or the elegant and historic Casa Mathilda is another great option.

Barcelona: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: Catalan and Spanish (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: Barcelona Airport El Prat de Llobregat.

Population: Approximately 1.6 million.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is the beautiful capital city of Austria and is in the eastern part of the country. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, world-renowned music scene, and world-class museums. The city has many historic landmarks, such as the Schonbrunn Palace and the Vienna State Opera. You will find more information about this great city here.

Where to stay in Vienna

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Vienna.

A couple of accommodations worth considering are the centrally located, but tranquil Nikolai Homes apartment complex. Another great option would be the impressive Hotel MOTTO for a real touch of Viennese class.

Vienna: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: German (English is also widely spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: Vienna International Airport.

Population: Approximately 1.9 million.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline located in the Campania region of Italy. The coast is famous for its stunning views, picturesque villages, and world-renowned cuisine. It is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a chance to soak up the Italian sun. Accessible from Naples or Rome, the coast is also home to many historic landmarks, such as the town of Amalfi which is set in a dramatic natural setting below steep cliffs and, also, the ruins of Pompeii near the Bay of Naples. It’s worth noting that many of the tourist hubs in this area are less crowded in autumn, winter and spring, especially the ever-popular Sorrento.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

Here are some accommodation options for a stay on the Amalfi Coast.

A couple of hotels worth considering are Maison Bon Bon with great views and a relaxed atmosphere, located in easily accessible Sorrento, or the amazing Hotel Luna Convento in the town of Amalfi itself is another excellent possibility.

Amalfi Coast: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: Italian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: Naples International Airport and Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark and is located on the country’s eastern coast. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, world-renowned food scene, and world-class museums (seniors – defined as people who have turned 65) can often gain access to most of the Copenhagen museums and other attractions for a discounted price. The city has many historic landmarks, such as the Rosenborg Castle and the Nyhavn Harbour.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Copenhagen.

A couple of hotels worth considering are the conveniently located, 25hours Hotel Indre By a gorgeous, quirky and cool boutique hotel in the heart of old town, or the award-winning Copenhagen Admiral Hotel is another excellent option.

Copenhagen: Quick Facts

Currency: Danish Krone (but Euros can sometimes be used for high ticket items).

Languages: Danish (English is also widely spoken in Denmark)

Main Airports: Copenhagen Airport.

Population: Approximately 1.3 million.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a city on the southern coast of Croatia. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, picturesque Old Town, beautiful beaches and, more recently, a filming location for ‘Game of Thrones’. It is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a chance to soak up the Mediterranean sun. The city has many historic landmarks, such as the Dubrovnik City Walls and the Rector’s Palace.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Dubrovnik.

A couple of options worth considering are the conveniently located, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, which is on the doorstep of the Old Town and boasts an indoor pool and a wellness centre with saunas, a hammam, plus fitness and massage facilities.

The great beachside location of the Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is another fantastic choice.

Dubrovnik: Quick Facts

Currency: Euro

Languages: Croatian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

Main Airports: Dubrovnik Airport.

Population: Approximately 41,562.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and is on the eastern side of the country. The city is famous for its stunning architecture and world-renowned festivals (such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest performance arts festival). The city simply overflows with historic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Yacht Britannia (moored at nearby Leith) and the Royal Mile. Edinburgh is also perfect for those who love to shop as it is renowned for being one of the best places in the United Kingdom for shopaholics. A diverse city, fast-paced and lively, coupled with areas that are much more subtle and relaxed including the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Edinburgh.

A couple of options worth considering are the Stockbridge (nice area of Edinburgh) located, The Raeburn, about a mile away from the centre.

The fantastic Cheval The Edinburgh Grand in the centre is another great choice.

Edinburgh: Quick Facts

Currency: British Pound Stirling

Languages: English

Main Airports: Edinburgh Airport.

Population: Approximately 554,000

Things for more mature travellers to consider when visiting Europe

Look for destinations with lots of accessible tours and things to do without too much effort.
Ensure there are easily accessible taxis or public transport near your accommodation that can take you wherever you need to go.
Look for easily accessible shops, pharmacies, hospitals or doctors in case of an emergency.
If mobility/fitness is an issue, then consider areas/accommodation that has flat surfaces, without lots of steps to make accessibility as easy as possible
Look for direct flights to minimise trip durations and travel fatigue.
Consider relatively quiet towns without hoards of tourist crowds.

Europe has many destinations catering to the over 50s. From Tuscany’s stunning landscapes to Barcelona’s vibrant culture, there is something for everyone. So if, like us, you are over 50 and looking for a holiday destination that offers relaxation, comfort, and a chance to indulge in the finer things in life, then Europe is the perfect place to go.

Top Tips – Europe

Use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

For travel insurance, we use and recommend using Staysure – specialists in over 50’s travel insurance, as we have always found them fair and easy to deal with.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

The post The Top 10 Best Places in Europe for Over 50s Holidays appeared first on Destination Someplace.