Follow in Andrew Harper's footsteps on his recent trip through Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest.
Major sites in Vienna and Budpest draw throngs of tourists, but with the right strategies, it's not difficult to escape the crowds.
Like the Belvedere, this more sober baroque palace stands amid delightful gardens just outside Vienna's Ring. We booked one of the once-monthly public tours of the Gartenpalais, home to a private art and decorative object collection rivaling the Frick in New York.
Videos from my trips to Europe and the Atlantic coast.
The energetic capital of Hungary has long been a favorite European destination, and every time I visit, I find new reasons to love the place. Ruled by the Ottoman Empire for a century and a half, Budapest retains an air of exoticism, only enhanced by the impenetrable Hungarian language.
A good resource to consult before a trip to Hungary is "Food Wine Budapest" by Carolyn Banfalvi, which has sections on everything from pickles to palinka. Better yet, reserve one of Banfalvi's culinary walks in Budapest.
The culinary scene in central Europe has come of age, and dining in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest is a delight. We had no trouble finding soulful, traditional fare as well as sophisticated fine dining.
Vienna and Budapest are both unusually blessed with atmospheric historic cafes, where one can enjoy anything from a glass of wine to a simple meal to a slice of torte with a melange (cappuccino).
A video from my recent trip to Budapest, Hungary as reviewed in the August 2014 issue of the Hideaway Report.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
1 (800) 375-4685
Open M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM CT
