🎭 Vienna State Opera – A Daily Dose of Elegance! ✨

Some buildings deserve more than one visit, and the magnificent Vienna State Opera was one I walked past every day during my stay. When your hotel is this centrally located, even your everyday walks become a sightseeing tour!

I loved the elegant colonnades you can stroll beneath, the beautiful arched windows and the grand architecture that makes you feel as though you’ve stepped back into imperial Vienna. But behind all that beauty is a little royal drama! 👑 Emperor Franz Joseph had opinions about the opera house’s design details, and the building attracted criticism when it was first constructed.

Thankfully, it has since become one of Vienna’s most celebrated landmarks.I didn’t attend a performance this time, but I certainly appreciated the exterior. Sometimes you don’t need a ticket to enjoy a little opera-house glamour!🎶

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #ViennaStateOpera #Austria #EuropeanArchitecture #SoloTravel

Hello Vienna!❤️

After my train journey from Budapest, I arrived in Vienna and emerged from the Karlsplatz U-Bahn Station — and there it was, the magnificent Vienna State Opera! The landmark I was heading for.

My hotel, Hotel Pension Suzanne, was just nearby, so I knew I was heading in the right direction. 😊 Once I’d checked in, there was no time for resting — I was far too excited to start exploring! And what a location my hotel has. It’s right in the heart of Vienna, with so many of the city’s famous sights within easy walking distance.

On my first little wander I passed the Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Albertina Museum, Vienna’s beautiful shopping streets and Hofburg Palace. And this was just my first afternoon! I could already tell that I was going to love exploring Vienna, and I had 10 whole days ahead of me to discover these places properly — along with many, many more.

After Budapest, my Central European adventure was continuing… and Vienna was looking very promising!

✨If you`re planning your own Vienna adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #ViennaAustria #ViennaStateOpera #SoloTravel #CentralEurope

👑 Behind the Palace Doors – Sisi’s Private Rooms! ✨

Continuing my visit to the Sisi Museum at Hofburg Palace, I got a glimpse into the more private side of Empress Elisabeth’s life. Her private sitting room and bedroom were decorated in elegant cream and gold, creating a rather beautiful imperial feel.

Her dressing room, however, was another story! That gorgeous deep crimson I’d admired elsewhere in the palace appeared again, complemented by cream and gold furniture. I think I could definitely get used to having a dressing room like that!

But then came the bathroom… and what a surprise! Sisi had a thoroughly modern bathroom for her time, complete with an enormous metal bathtub and the latest and greatest in bathroom technology — a ceramic toilet with a wooden seat!

Well, even an Empress has to answer nature’s call! 😂

Who knew a royal bathroom visit could be such an interesting part of a palace tour?

It was fascinating to see these private rooms and imagine the daily life that went on behind the grand public spaces of the Hofburg. A little more personal, a little less formal, but still with plenty of imperial style.

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#SisiMuseum #HofburgPalace #EmpressElisabeth #ViennaHistory #SoloFemaleTravel

Aimlessly wandering around Vienna....magnificent 🥂

It was so easy to fall into the habit of eating delicious chocolate cake in a beautiful cafe, I never needed my arm twisted for that one 😋

Walking through the impressive gardens of Belvedere Palace, I was greeted by one of those views that makes you stop and take it all in. ❤️Beautiful flower beds filled with tulips, an enormous reflecting pond and, stretching out beyond it all, the magnificent palace itself.

The Belvedere was originally built as the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, one of the most successful military commanders of his time, during the great expansion of the Habsburg Empire.And what a summer residence it was!

The palace, gardens, sculptures and formal flower beds create such an impressive setting — and I could see why this was designed to make an entrance.Walking towards the palace with the tulips in bloom, I couldn’t help thinking that Vienna really does know how to make an arrival feel special. 🌷

And this was just the beginning of discovering the Belvedere…

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #BelvederePalace #UpperBelvedere #ViennaAustria #SoloTravel

Budapest... you certainly know how to make a first impression!

After checking into Hotel President in the heart of this beautiful city, I couldn`t wait to start exploring my local area before darkness fell.

My afternoon took me past the magnificent St. Stephen`s Basilica, the lively Budapest Eye Ferris Wheel, the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building, past to the iconic Chain Bridge, and to the moving Shoes on the Danube Memorial, a powerful tribute to the thousands of Jews murdered on the riverbank during World War II.

Of course, no walk around Budapest would be complete without rubbing the shiny belly of the jovial bronze "Fat Policeman" statue for a little good luck. Whether it works or not remains to be seen... but I wasn`t taking any chances! 😉

As evening fell, and the jet lag started kicking in, there was only one way to finish my first afternoon in Hungary – with a steaming bowl of traditional Hungarian Goulash. Rich, hearty and full of flavour, it was the perfect welcome to this incredible city.

If Budapest can pack this much into just a few hours, I was looking forward to what this adventure has in store for the rest of the week.

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #SoloTravel #SoloFemaleTraveller #exploringbudapest #Hungary

🍰 A Little Slice of Viennese Indulgence! ☕

I seem to have developed a rather enjoyable new passion while exploring Vienna… eating chocolate cake in elegant surroundings!
And really, who could blame me?

This time, I treated myself to a delicious slice of the famous Original Sacher-Torte at Café Sacher, inside the beautiful Hotel Sacher.

Rich chocolate cake, a layer of apricot jam and that wonderfully smooth chocolate icing. Served with a coffee, it was the perfect little indulgence.

And what better way for a solo traveller to spend some time? Sitting in elegant surroundings, enjoying a little something delicious, watching the world go by and thinking through the plans for the day ahead.

No need to negotiate where to eat, no one waiting impatiently for the bill, and absolutely no need to share my cake! 😂 I think I could get quite used to this Viennese lifestyle. Although my waistline may have a different opinion!

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#CafeSacher #SacherTorte #Vienna #SoloFemaleTravel #viennacafeseries

🌼 Schönbrunn’s Gloriette – So Close, Yet So Far! 👑

After my uphill walk to the Gloriette, I was greeted by a beautiful pathway lined with bright yellow flowering plants. A lovely welcome after all that walking!

Then it was up the steps, through the elegant colonnade and beneath the soaring ceiling. What a magnificent structure! ✨

And just when I thought I’d explored everything, I spotted the entrance to the rooftop, where I could enjoy even more spectacular views across Vienna. There was just one little problem… 😏

It turned out that tickets for the rooftop were only available from the ticket office back down at the Palace! Oh dear!! A return journey down the hill and back up again? My feet and I had a quick discussion, and we decided that perhaps the rooftop could wait until next time! 😂👟

That’s another little adventure of travelling solo. You make your own decisions, change your plans when you need to, and sometimes leave a good excuse to return to a place you’ve loved. So, Schönbrunn, I haven’t finished with you yet!💖

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#SchonbrunnPalace #Gloriette #Vienna #SoloFemaleTravel #AustriaTravel

I was finally inside Schloss Belvedere… and I couldn’t even make it through the foyer without taking hundreds of photos! 😂📸

The gleaming white walls, elegant statues and beautiful balustrades on the staircase, all contrasted with black details and striking light fittings, were simply stunning. I’m pretty sure I could arrange to move in immediately!! 😍 I hadn’t even started the actual visit yet!

Before heading upstairs, you pass through the magnificent Carlone Hall, with its spectacular Baroque frescoed ceiling. Then, right in the middle of the floor, there was a contemporary art installation — a circle of lavender creating a lovely aroma and beautiful contrast with all that Baroque grandeur. And this was just on the way to the cloakroom!

Of course, the first important job was to dump all my excess gear before heading properly inside. So, coat deposited, camera ready…I was ready to explore! 😂

And judging by the foyer alone, I had a feeling there were going to be a LOT more photos coming… ❤️

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #LowerBelvedere #BelvederePalace #ViennaAustria #SoloTravel

After exploring the Upper Belvedere, I continued around to discover the Lower Belvedere and its gardens — and they seemed to go on and on! 🌿

The gardens were filled with sparkling white sculptures, beautifully positioned amongst the flower beds and dotted in and around the many ponds. Every turn seemed to reveal another sculpture, another view or another beautiful part of the gardens.

And here’s a useful little tip if you’re visiting: the Belvedere gardens are free to enter, so you can wander around and enjoy the magnificent setting without needing a ticket for the palace interiors. I could also keep an eye on the queue of people waiting to go inside the palace… 👀

My plan was simple — enjoy the gardens, admire the views, and wait patiently for a little afternoon lull in the crowds! After all, there was no point standing in a queue if I could be wandering around beautiful gardens instead! 😂 Now I just had to hope that my timing was right…

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #BelvederePalace #LowerBelvedere #ViennaAustria #SoloTravel

✨ Inside the Royal Palace of Buda Castle…

After wandering through the cobblestone courtyards and passing the watchful lion statues, it was time to step inside the magnificent Royal Palace.

The palace has had quite a history. The original medieval royal residence dates back to the 13th century, although what we see today is the result of centuries of rebuilding, destruction and restoration.

Inside, the grand halls, sweeping staircases, ornate details and beautiful architecture give you a glimpse of the palace`s royal past. It’s hard not to imagine kings, queens and courtiers moving through these very spaces.

Sadly, much of the palace was destroyed during the Siege of Budapest in 1944–45, and the building was later reconstructed. Today, the palace is home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

I love places like this where the architecture tells as much of the story as the exhibits do. And after all the walking around Buda Castle, I was more than happy to wander indoors for a while! 😂

Another piece of Budapest history explored. ❤️

Have you visited the Royal Palace at Buda Castle?

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #BudaCastle #RoyalPalace #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

🏰 Budapest has another castle… and of course I had to go and find it!

Even though the weather was looking a little gloomy during my time in Budapest, it certainly wasn`t going to keep me indoors. So I headed up to City Park (Városliget) to discover the city`s other castle — the enchanting Vajdahunyad Castle.

And what a beautiful surprise!

Built between 1896 and 1908 as part of Hungary`s Millennium celebrations, Vajdahunyad Castle is a wonderfully eclectic mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. Rather than being an ancient castle, it was originally created as a temporary exhibition — but Budapest obviously decided it liked it too much to let it go!

Today, its fairytale towers, turrets and lakeside setting make it one of the most photographed spots in City Park.

The gloomy skies actually added a little atmosphere to the castle… although I wouldn`t have complained if Budapest had turned the sunshine on for me! ☁️😂

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #VajdahunyadCastle #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel #VisitBudapest

After an absolutely HUGE final day in Budapest, I finally made it back to my hotel — exhausted, feet complaining, and ready to collapse! 😂

But there was just one thing left to do…I’d been up to the Castle District, wandered around Margaret Island, crossed over to City Park and explored Vajdahunyad Castle again in the sunshine.

Surely that was enough for one day? Apparently not! 😂 Darkness fell, and I headed back out and caught the Metro across the river to see the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building lit up at night. And WOW!✨

After seeing Parliament from so many different angles during my Budapest adventure, seeing it glowing against the dark Danube was the perfect way to finish my final day. I stood there for a while, taking it all in — and probably taking just a few more photos! 📸😂Budapest was now complete!! ❤️

What an incredible city, and what an incredible solo adventure.

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #HungarianParliament #BudapestByNight #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

My last full day in Budapest was turning into a serious sightseeing marathon! 🚶‍♀️☀️

After catching the tram to Margaret Bridge, I crossed over to Margaret Island and started exploring. Just a few minutes into the park, down the hill from the bridge, I discovered the beautiful Water Tower, built in 1911 and now one of the island’s most recognisable landmarks.

Apparently, there are 152 steps to climb to the top for wonderful views over Budapest.I say apparently because, thankfully… it was closed! 😂 After all the stairs I’d already climbed around Budapest, I decided this was one viewpoint I could happily admire from ground level!

So I continued my walk and soon came across another little treasure — St Michael’s Chapel, a charming medieval chapel dating back to the 12th century.

From grand Parliament views to a historic little chapel hidden among the greenery, Margaret Island was proving that there was still plenty more of Budapest to discover. And thankfully, not every discovery required climbing 152 steps! 😄

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #MargaretIsland #StMichaelsChapel #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

Sometimes the best Budapest discoveries happen when you`re on your way somewhere else!✨

I was walking past the magnificent St. Stephen`s Basilica when I noticed a service was about to begin. I spotted an opportunity for a quick look inside… and, well, who was I to just walk past? 😉I quietly slipped inside, took a few photos of the incredible interior and had a quick look around before leaving them to prepare for the service.

And what an interior! The soaring dome, magnificent marble, gilded details, paintings and mosaics make this one of Budapest`s most impressive churches. Named after St. Stephen, Hungary`s first king, the basilica was completed in 1905, after more than half a century of construction and several rather unfortunate setbacks along the way.

I didn`t stay long on this occasion, but sometimes a quick glimpse is enough! When there is no service happening you can pay to visit and stay longer!

Another little Budapest bonus — and this one didn`t cost me a cent! 😂

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #StStephensBasilica #HungaryTravel #BudapestArchitecture #SoloTravel

Leaving the Castle District behind, I was off to continue exploring Budapest in the sunshine. ☀️

I caught the bus back down towards the Danube and hopped off before it crossed the Liberty Bridge — and, of course, I couldn’t resist looking back before continuing on.

There was the entrance to the Buda Castle Tunnel, built beneath Castle Hill and opened in 1857. Above the archway, the Hungarian coat of arms and a lion’s head make a rather impressive entrance.

Nearby, I spotted another Hungarian coat of arms incorporated into the brickwork near the lower station of the Castle Funicular, dated 1880, and then noticed a little building that looked remarkably like a miniature Fisherman’s Bastion! It turns out this is part of the Pauline monastery beside the Cave Church on Gellért Hill. The Cave Church itself was created in the 1920s inside the hillside, with the present church completed in 1931.

More little Budapest discoveries… and I hadn’t even reached the river yet! 😊

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #BudaCastle #GellertHill #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

Walking through the impressive gates into the gardens of Upper Belvedere Palace, I was greeted by one of those views that makes you stop and take it all in. ❤️

Beautiful flower beds filled with tulips, an enormous reflecting pond and, stretching out beyond it all, the magnificent palace itself.

The Belvedere was originally built as the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, one of the most successful military commanders of his time, during the great expansion of the Habsburg Empire. And what a summer residence it was! The palace, gardens, sculptures and formal flower beds create such an impressive setting — and I could see why this was designed to make an entrance.

Walking towards the palace with the tulips in bloom, I couldn’t help thinking that Vienna really does know how to make an arrival feel special. 🌷And this was just the beginning of discovering the Belvedere…

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #BelvederePalace #UpperBelvedere #ViennaAustria #SoloTravel

Strolling around Sydney`s Royal Botanic Gardens and Government House✨️ looking out across Sydney Harbour on a sunny mid winters day☀️

#rbg #sydneylocal #sydneyharbour #seetheworldthroughmyeyes #sydneyharbourwalks

A beautiful building with a heartbreaking history. 🕊️

While exploring Budapest, I came across the magnificent Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue. I decided to go inside and joined a tour so I could learn more about the history of this remarkable place.

The interior is truly beautiful — with its soaring arches, ornate decoration, colourful stained glass and intricate details. But behind all that beauty is a history that is incredibly difficult to comprehend. Built between 1854 and 1859, the Great Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe.

During the Second World War, it became part of the Budapest Ghetto, where Jewish people were imprisoned in horrific conditions. Thousands died from starvation, disease and the brutal treatment they endured. The synagogue grounds also became a cemetery, where thousands of victims were buried. Standing inside such a beautiful building while learning about the horrors that took place here was a sobering experience.

It is a place that reminds us that history isn`t always comfortable — but remembering it is important. I left feeling incredibly moved, and grateful that I had taken the time to stop, go inside and listen to its story.

Some places you visit for their beauty. Others stay with you because of their history. This was both. 🕊️

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #GreatSynagogue #JewishHistory #BudapestHistory #HungaryTravel

🎨 The Albertina – Walking Among the Masters! ✨

After admiring the magnificent interiors of the Albertina Museum, it was time to climb those grand, red-carpeted stairs and head upstairs to the galleries. Walking beneath the sparkling chandeliers felt rather special — although I was soon distracted by what was waiting in the exhibition rooms!

Here, I found myself face-to-face with works by some of the biggest names in the art world, including Monet, Picasso, Cézanne and Matisse, along with many other celebrated artists. 🖼️

It’s quite something to stand in front of paintings you’ve seen reproduced countless times and appreciate them in person.

And this is one of the things I love about travelling solo: I can linger in front of a painting for as long as I like, wander into the next room when I’m ready, or simply stop and soak it all in — no compromises and no one asking, “Are you ready to go yet?” 😂

Vienna certainly knows how to combine beautiful buildings with world-class art. For a solo traveller, it’s a wonderful feeling to explore such places entirely at your own pace and make every visit your own.

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#AlbertinaMuseum #Vienna #ArtLovers #SoloFemaleTravel #TravelAtYourOwnPace

Turns out, I wasn`t the only one enjoying Budapest under blue skies! ☀️😂 (Solo traveller meets everyone else who had the same bright idea! 😂)

By the time I reached Fisherman’s Bastion, the quiet morning atmosphere had well and truly disappeared.

Suddenly there were `other people` everywhere — wandering through the fairytale turrets, stopping for photos, admiring the views and generally enjoying the sunshine just as much as I was. And who could blame them?

After several gloomy, rainy days in Budapest, it seemed the minute the sun came out, everyone had exactly the same idea…...Get to Fisherman’s Bastion! 😄📸

So much for having Budapest all to myself — but I certainly wasn’t complaining. The sunshine made those beautiful white stone turrets look even more magical.

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #FishermansBastion #HungaryTravel #BudapestViews #SoloTravel

My sunny morning in Budapest was getting better by the minute! ☀️

Walking through the Castle District, I discovered one of Budapest’s wonderfully quirky little treasures — a tiny Kolodko sculpture peering through his telescope towards the Chain Bridge. 🔭And clearly, he knew exactly where to look!

Just beyond him, the real Chain Bridge was glowing in the morning sunshine, looking every bit as magnificent as it should.

Then came the view along the Danube towards the Hungarian Parliament Building, with its grand Gothic Revival architecture reflected in the sparkling water. ❤️

After days of grey skies and rain, seeing Budapest bathed in sunshine felt pretty special. Sometimes you need a tiny statue with a telescope to point out exactly where the best views are! 😄

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #ChainBridge #HungarianParliament #Danube #SoloTravel

🌧️ Well, the rain had clearly decided where I was going next!

I was wandering around the Castle District when the rain started falling again. Luckily, I happened to be very close to Matthias Church, so naturally I took this as a very clear sign that it was time to head inside. 😉

And what a decision! The interior of Matthias Church is absolutely spectacular, with its beautifully patterned walls, colourful decoration, intricate details and magnificent stained-glass windows. It feels completely different from the grand Gothic churches you might expect to find in Europe.

The church has a fascinating history dating back to the 13th century, although much of what you see today was restored in the 19th century under architect Frigyes Schulek. Named after King Matthias Corvinus, who was married here in the 15th century, the church has witnessed coronations, royal weddings, Ottoman occupation and centuries of change.

So, thank you, Budapest rain! ☔️ What started as an attempt to stay dry turned into one of the highlights of my time exploring Buda Castle. Sometimes the weather really does know best! ❤️

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #MatthiasChurch #BudaCastle #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

👑 Hofburg Palace – A Visit to the Imperial City Residence! ✨

My exploration of Vienna’s imperial palaces continued, this time at the Hofburg Palace, the Emperor and Empress’s grand city residence. Clearly, I hadn’t quite had my fill of royal palaces just yet!

I began my visit at the Sisi Museum, making my way up a very grand marble staircase before entering the reception room - there was a beautifully restored tall ceramic heater, sparkling chandeliers, gold-framed mirrors and deep crimson wallpaper and curtains. Absolutely dripping in imperial elegance!

Now, red has never really been one of my favourite colours, but this rich, deep crimson? I think I could get used to that! ❤️

As I wandered through these magnificent rooms, I couldn`t help imagining what life must have been like behind these grand palace walls. I think I could get used to that too! ❤️

And the lovely thing about exploring somewhere like this on my own? I could take my time, admire every little detail and indulge my fascination with imperial history without anyone wondering how many more rooms I intended to visit!

Apparently, quite a few! 😂

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#HofburgPalace #SisiMuseum #Vienna #ImperialHistory #SoloFemaleTravel

🍽️ Hofburg Palace – Dinner Fit for an Emperor, (or Empress!) 👑

Oh, to have been invited to dinner at the Hofburg Palace with Sisi and Franz! What an experience that must have been.

From the grand entrance, through rooms dressed in deep crimson carpets and curtains, with mirrors and gold trimmings everywhere, you certainly knew you were somewhere rather special.

And then there was the dining table! Beautifully laid with sparkling glassware, an impressive array of cutlery, exquisite gold-trimmed crockery and magnificent silverware. Every detail was designed to impress, and impress it certainly did!🥂

I could only imagine the grand dinners, important guests and royal occasions that once took place here. What conversations must have been held around these tables, and what a privilege it would have been to experience one of those evenings.

Wandering through as a solo traveller, I had plenty of time to take it all in and imagine what life behind these imperial doors must have been like.

I think I could quite happily have accepted a dinner invitation… and I would have dressed for the occasion! 😉✨

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#HofburgPalace #Vienna #ImperialVienna #PalaceInteriors #SoloFemaleTravel

At this time every year Sydney Harbour is filled with light for Vivid Sydney.

#vividsydney #sydneyoperahouse #sydneyharbour #seetheworldthroughmyeyes

🏰 Kings, hunters and a prince on horseback… Budapest Castle certainly has some impressive company!

While exploring Buda Castle, I came across two very different but equally spectacular bronze statues.

First, the King Matthias and His Hunting Party fountain, created by Hungarian sculptor Alajos Stróbl and unveiled in 1904. King Matthias Corvinus, one of Hungary`s most celebrated rulers, sits proudly among his hunting party, with the figures, horses and hounds capturing the excitement of a royal hunt. The detail is incredible — even the dogs look as though they`re ready to take off after their next target!

Then there`s the rather dramatic Prince Eugene of Savoy, proudly sitting high on his horse outside the castle. Created by sculptor József Róna and unveiled in 1900, the monument commemorates Prince Eugene, the military commander who played an important role in the defeat of the Ottoman forces and the liberation of Buda in 1686.

Two statues, two very different stories, and plenty of magnificent bronze to admire.

I do love a city where you can simply wander around and unexpectedly find yourself standing beside centuries of history — although I think I`d have preferred to arrive at Buda Castle on horseback rather than climbing all those stairs! 😂🐎

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #BudaCastle #BudapestSculptures #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

Gold, Gold and MORE Gold at the Belvedere! ✨👑

If I thought the foyer and staircase at the Lower Belvedere were impressive, the rooms upstairs certainly weren’t going to disappoint!

The first rooms I wandered into had gleaming white walls, magnificent gold chandeliers, gold-framed mirrors, gold ceiling decorations and gold embellishments covering the walls. Did I mention the gold? 😂 It was everywhere!

The contrast between the crisp white walls and all that golden detail was simply stunning. Everywhere I looked, there was another beautiful feature to admire — and, of course, another photo to take! 📸

I was beginning to think the designers at the palace, didn`t have subtlety mentioned in the brief! After all, why have one gold chandelier when you can have magnificent gold chandeliers, gold mirrors and gold decorations everywhere you turn? 😂 ❤️

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #LowerBelvedere #BelvederePalace #ViennaAustria #SoloTravel

And just like that… it was time to say goodbye to Budapest and continue my solo adventure through Central Europe! 🚆

After an amazing week exploring Budapest, I caught a taxi from my hotel to Keleti Station to catch the train to Vienna. Keleti Station itself is quite impressive, both inside and out, but my attention soon turned to the rather important business of getting myself — and my luggage — onto the train!

I can usually manage this myself, but the train was very high and the platform, very low!

One of the station staff kindly helped lift my luggage onto the train. I noticed that some passengers had simply left their luggage beside their seats, which is what I would normally do if there is space, (and there was!). But before I could say anything… he had lifted my suitcase right up onto the luggage rack above my seat! 😳

Now, I’m not particularly tall, and even standing on the seat I could barely reach it! So there it was… safely stored above my head while I settled in for the journey to Vienna. I decided not to worry about it just yet. I had a couple of hours on the train to come up with a plan for getting it down! 😂

Fortunately, by the time we arrived in Vienna, there was a very tall gentleman in my carriage. He very kindly rescued my suitcase from its lofty position🙏😂

Sometimes travelling solo means being independent……and sometimes it means quietly hoping a very tall person gets on your train! 🥂!! Next stop… Vienna! 🇦🇹❤️

#BudapestToVienna #KeletiStation #Vienna #SoloTravel #CentralEurope

👑 Schönbrunn Palace – One Last Look… Then Schnitzel!

🍽️Before leaving Schönbrunn Palace gardens, I took one last look back up towards the magnificent Gloriette from the palace balcony. What a wonderful way to finish exploring this grand imperial estate!

After all that walking, climbing hills and admiring the sights, I’d certainly worked up an appetite. It was time to reward myself with a late lunch or, perhaps, an early dinner at Gerstner Restaurant at the Palace.

And what did I choose? A good old-fashioned Vienna Schnitzel — an absolutely enormous one! 😂 Somehow, I managed to finish it. All that walking around Schönbrunn’s enormous grounds certainly helped!

With a very happy stomach and tired feet, it was time to hop back on the U-Bahn and head into Vienna.

Another wonderful day of solo exploring, a magnificent palace, beautiful gardens and a meal fit for an empress. Well… perhaps not quite an imperial banquet, but that schnitzel certainly felt like one! 😋

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#SchonbrunnPalace #Vienna #WienerSchnitzel #SoloFemaleTravel #AustriaTravel

✨ The Albertina – More Viennese Elegance! 👑

Just when I thought Vienna couldn’t possibly have another beautiful building to impress me, along came the Albertina Museum!

Stepping inside, I was greeted by chandeliers, mirrors, gold trimmings and gleaming white marble statues. There’s certainly no shortage of grandeur in this city! Vienna really does have a knack for making you feel quite royal 👑

✨Another magnificent old building in the very heart of Vienna, the Albertina has a fascinating history as a former Habsburg palace before becoming one of the city’s best-known art museums. Even if you’re not an art expert, the interiors alone are worth taking time to admire.

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #AlbertinaMuseum #ViennaArchitecture #AustriaTravel #SoloFemaleTravel

A crowd gathers every hour to watch the Astronomical Clock in Prague put on a show 😂 Then some people clap and cheer, and some people laugh in an `is that it` kind of way.

#prague #astronomicalclockprague🏰 #solotravel #traveltheworldwithme #seetheworldthroughmyeyes

After noticing the clip-clop of horses’ hooves everywhere I went in Vienna, I soon discovered something else…Vienna is absolutely full of horses! 🐴

Once you start looking, you see them everywhere. There’s King John III Sobieski of Poland proudly mounted on the top of Husaren-Haus on Graben, while magnificent equestrian statues of Archduke Karl and Prince Eugene of Savoy stand near the Hofburg.

And then there’s the rather impressive Horse Tamer and his Horse outside the Parliament building. But the horses don’t stop outside!They’re outside museums, inside museums, decorating buildings and appearing in sculptures all over the city.

By this stage, I was beginning to think Vienna had a very serious horse obsession! 😂

But really, it all adds to the grandeur and character of this beautiful city — where even the statues seem to be ready to take you somewhere.

🐴 Clip-clop on the streets…
🐴 Horses on the buildings…
🐴 Horses in the museums…You simply can’t escape them — and I wasn’t complaining! ❤️

✨If you`re planning your own solo adventure to Vienna, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Vienna #horsestatues #ViennaArchitecture #ViennaHistory #SoloTravel

A castle, a mysterious writer… and a politician! 🏰📚

Exploring the grounds of Vajdahunyad Castle, I discovered a couple of bronze characters that definitely caught my attention.

First up is the wonderfully mysterious Anonymous — a hooded figure sitting quietly with a pen in hand. The sculpture was created by Miklós Ligeti in 1903 and represents the unknown author of the medieval Hungarian chronicle Gesta Hungarorum. No one knows exactly who Anonymous was, which makes this rather spooky-looking fellow even more intriguing!

The polished pen is said to bring good luck to writers and students, so naturally it seemed only polite to give it a little rub. 😉

Nearby is a statue of Ignác Darányi, a Hungarian politician who served as Minister of Agriculture. Created by sculptor József Róna, the bronze statue was unveiled in 1907.

I love finding these little stories hiding amongst Budapest`s grand buildings. You can wander into a place expecting castles and turrets and end up meeting medieval chroniclers and 19th-century politicians!

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #VajdahunyadCastle #BudapestSculptures #HungarianHistory #HungaryTravel

✨ And then I stepped inside…

After exploring the fairytale exterior of Vajdahunyad Castle, I couldn`t resist going inside to see what was hiding behind those impressive doors - it certainly didn`t disappoint! (And it provided shelter from the sudden rain shower.)

The interior is every bit as dramatic as the outside, with a magnificent marble staircase, elegant columns, beautiful stained-glass windows and a wonderfully decorated ceiling. There are intricate details everywhere you look — the sort of place where you keep looking up, around and behind you because you don`t want to miss a thing!

Vajdahunyad Castle may look centuries old, but this beautiful building was created between 1896 and 1908 as part of Hungary`s Millennium celebrations. Its architecture deliberately brings together elements from different periods and regions of Hungarian architectural history.

I think Budapest may have a slight problem… it has simply too many beautiful buildings to look at! 😂

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #VajdahunyadCastle #HungaryTravel #VisitBudapest #SoloTravel

The house where the Governor General lives in the Royal Botanic Gardens on the edge of Sydney Harbour. I`m thinking of applying for the job!!
You can wander around the gardens and go on free booked tours of inside parts of the house most weekends - I love the way we all look around as if its a property inspection and we`re looking to buy it😂

#governmenthousesydney #sydneyrbg #sydney #sydneyharbourwalks #seetheworldthroughmyeyes

A place of remembrance in the heart of Budapest✨️

Behind the magnificent Dohány Street Synagogue is a place that feels very different from the grand beauty of the synagogue itself. In the garden stands the Tree of Life, a weeping willow sculpture created by Hungarian artist Imre Varga. Its metal leaves bear the names and tattoo numbers of victims of the Holocaust, turning the tree into a powerful memorial to those who were murdered or disappeared.

The gardens surrounding the synagogue also hold the graves of thousands of Jewish people who died during the terrible conditions of the Budapest Ghetto during the Second World War. It is difficult to stand here and comprehend the scale of the suffering that took place in this very part of Budapest. The peaceful gardens, the sound of the leaves and the beautiful synagogue behind them make the history feel even more poignant.

📍If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #DohanySynagogue #TreeOfLife #HolocaustRemembrance #JewishHistory

Sydney`s Royal Botanic Gardens on the edge of the CBD and Sydney Harbour all sparkling on an unseasonably hot day for June ✨️ Who would have thought hats and sunscreen would still be the order of the day, I would expect hats and coats at this time of year!!!

#royalbotanicgardens #urbanoasis #walkinthepark #sydney #sydneyharbourwalks

Explored the stunning Belvedere Palace in Vienna, a former imperial residence that`s truly breathtaking. The gardens were gorgeous, especially with the ponds and fountains coming to life now that winter`s loosening its grip, slightly....!!

#belvedere #schlossbelvedere #vienna #solotrip #traveltheworldwithme

🏰 Three more little discoveries around Buda Castle…

There is so much to see walking back up through the Castle District that you really do need to keep your eyes open — and preferably have your camera ready! 📸

First, I came across the impressive Habsburg Gate, built in 1903 as part of the castle`s fortifications. With its ornate stonework and rather grand entrance, it certainly makes a statement.

Then there was the wonderfully playful Fountain of the Fishing Children, created by Hungarian sculptor Károly Senyei in 1900. The bronze children wrestling with their fishing net and fish bring a little fun to the otherwise very grand surroundings.

And then, keeping a watchful eye over it all, is the magnificent Turul Bird statue. This mythical bird of Hungarian legend sits proudly with its wings spread, clutching a sword in its talons. The statue was created by sculptor Gyula Donáth and unveiled in 1905.

Three very different sights, but each with its own story — and another reminder that around Buda Castle, there seems to be something interesting hiding around every corner.

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website, tripovertheworld.com, in my bio.

#Budapest #BudaCastle #BudapestSculptures #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel

A table for one… and a very good reason to book it! 🍽️✨

After admiring the beautiful Párisi Passage in Budapest, it was time to experience it from the inside — this time with a delicious three-course set menu and a table for one.

And what a setting for dinner! Surrounded by the spectacular architecture, ornate details and warm atmosphere of this magnificent restaurant ✨️ Three courses of beautifully presented food, a lovely atmosphere and plenty of time to sit back and enjoy the experience. ❤️

And yes… I may have taken photos of every course before eating it! 📸😂

Great food, a beautiful setting and a memorable evening in Budapest. The perfect end to a big day exploring Budapest.

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #ParisiPassage #BudapestFood #SoloTravel #SoloDining

Budapest was an amazing place to begin my solo adventure to Central Europe.
✨️ Hotel President was in a great location for exploring, walking distance to most places, or handy to the metro or buses.
✨️For more info on the hotels I stayed in click the link to my website in the bio.

#hotelpresidentbudapest #solotravel #solotrip #soloadventure #budapest

Had a quick run around Prague after a 4 hour train trip from Vienna. I was last in Prague 9 years ago, all seems familiar except Wenceslas Square....apart from the statue of Good King Wenceslas on his horse, the rest of the square that used to be an elegant collection of historic buildings, hotels, cafes, etc......has now turned into Oxford Street, London...Primark, C&A, Half Price, the list goes on......who thought that was a good idea????

#prague #solotravel #traveltheworldwithme #charlesbridgeprague

✨ Standing among the heroes of Hungary…..

No visit to Budapest`s City Park is complete without a stop at Heroes` Square (Hősök tere) — and after exploring Vajdahunyad Castle, it was the perfect next stop on my solo adventure. The enormous square is dominated by the Millennium Monument, built to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of the arrival of the Magyars in the Carpathian Basin in 895.

At its centre stands the Archangel Gabriel, high above the 36-metre column, while the colonnades on either side feature statues of important figures from Hungarian history. There is certainly no shortage of impressive-looking people to keep you company!

The monument was begun in 1896 as part of Hungary`s Millennium celebrations, although the whole ensemble wasn`t completed until 1929. With its grand scale, towering statues and beautiful surrounding buildings, Heroes` Square is one of those places where you can`t help but stop for a moment and take it all in.

Budapest certainly knows how to make history feel larger than life. ❤️

If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio.

#Budapest #HeroesSquare #HungaryTravel #HungarianHistory #SoloTravel

🏰 Arriving at Buda Castle...

After making my way up Castle Hill, I arrived in the cobblestone courtyard of Buda Castle, surrounded by grand buildings and centuries of Hungarian history.

But the real entrance was still ahead.

Passing through the impressive archway, I was greeted by the magnificent lion statues standing guard. Created by sculptor János Fadrusz in the early 20th century, these imposing stone lions have been keeping watch over the entrance for generations.

Walking through the arch, with the cobblestones underfoot and the lions looking rather serious about their job!

Of course, these days there are cameras rather than knights, and comfortable walking shoes rather than armour! 😂

✨️If you`re planning your own Budapest adventure, or would like to read about the hotels I stayed in during my solo journey through Budapest, Vienna and Prague, you`ll find the link to my website in my bio

#Budapest #BudaCastle #BudapestHistory #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel