Trip Over to Malta
Ten Days in Malta: A Solo Traveller’s Love Affair
with History, Harbours and….Buses
I flew into Malta’s Luqa Airport, after a blissfully short hop from London – which, as someone usually flying in from Sydney, felt positively decadent. We flew down part of the Italian coast, with high altitude views of Cinque Terre and La Spezia. Then over Sicily before getting great views of Gozo and over the island of Malta as we descended for landing.
A quick taxi ride later, I arrived at the Grand Harbour Hotel in Valletta, dumped my bags, and had to tear myself away from the gob-smacking views from my room that were even more amazing from the roof top terrace just one floor up – I set off exploring my new surroundings before it got dark, then as Valletta comes alive in the evening there was plenty more exploring to do after dark.
Getting Around Malta: Buses, Steps, and Strategy
Malta is wonderfully easy to get around and felt very safe and comfortable as a solo female traveller. Valletta itself is compact and walkable… with one small caveat: the stairs. Long, uneven, ancient stone stairs. Everywhere. By the end of the trip I was noticeably fitter, whether I wanted to be or not. There were some places to take an alternate, and longer, route to avoid the steps, but sometimes you just have to throw yourself at it.
I bought a 7-day Tallinja card to use for bus transport, that ended up being very good value, there were some days I made six or eight bus trips. The buses are regular, and easy to plan routes on Google Maps. I bought my Tallinja Card from the Information Booth at the main Valletta Bus Station near Triton’s Fountain, then you just find your bus, tap on and get going. The bus station is very organised, all buses leave from their clearly marked stand, then return to just up the road. The ticket is validated on the first use, so I timed it so my 7-day ticket would work for the last seven days. Walking in Valletta for the first few days, then going further afield — a strategy I’d highly recommend.
War Rooms and Grand Masters
My first full afternoon was spent underground at the Lascaris War Rooms, where Allied operations were coordinated during World War II. From there, I emerged into the sunshine and headed to the Grand Master’s Palace on St George’s Square — once home to the Grand Master of the Knights of the Order of St John.
Valletta is made for wandering around aimlessly discovering things, and I happily spent hours drifting through its streets, gardens, and viewpoints.
Tarxien, Marsaxlokk, and a Very Personal Pilgrimage
By my second full day in Malta, I was ready to get out of Valletta, I caught the bus to Tarxien to see the Tarxien Prehistoric Temples, dating from around 3150–2500 BC, very interesting for the history buffs amongst us. Especially interesting for me because I was born in Malta, my father was in the Royal Navy and stationed there at the time. We left when I was only 6 weeks old, but the house we lived in was just near the Tarxien Prehistoric Temples, so I had to get some photos of it. It was fascinating to walk around the streets my parents would have walked on during their very happy three years living in Malta.
Then back to the bus stop and back on to the #81 bus out to Marsaxlokk, on the east coast. A picture-perfect fishing village with a market on the edge of the bay and all the traditional brightly coloured Maltese fishing boats, called Luzzu, bobbing out on the bay.
Royal Residences and Places Best Left Quickly
I then made my way back towards Valletta and went in search of Villa Guardamangia, the house where Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip lived between 1949 and 1951, when he was stationed in Malta with the Royal Navy, (before she became Queen Elizabeth ll). Sitting up at the top of a very steep road, I’m sure it was once beautiful, but now in a sorry state of disrepair. How, or why, it was left to get in that condition amazes me, but apparently it is being restored, (very slowly!), and will eventually be open to the public.
From there I caught my 4th bus for the day to Sliema. I had heard it was a nice place, it isn’t – at least not for me. Mainly new, modern, soulless high-rise buildings. and a modern indoor shopping mall, I’ve got all that at home, I don’t need to see it here. Apparently, there are good restaurants and night clubs here – I will never know! What I saw of it was enough to have me heading back to the bus stop to go back to Valletta, where I had a traditional Rabbit Stew for dinner in one of the many restaurants on Merchants St — a much better decision.
The Three Cities and Forts Galore
Day 4 began with the ferry across The Grand Harbour to the Three Cities, Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla). I could see this area from my hotel room, so very keen to get over there. The ferry leaves from just down the hill from Victoria Gate and goes straight across past all the luxury yachts to Cospicua. Just as I arrived the Little Train was getting ready to go on it’s next tour of the area, so I jumped on and was taken all over the Three Cities to give me a good outline of the whole area.
I then walked out along the Birgu Waterfront to the point to visit Fort St Angelo. A must see for history lovers, built in the 13th Century, and seen off many invaders. The Resident Knight, the Grand Master of the Order of Malta, lives here now, no longer having to fend off attackers – a much quieter role now.
St John’s Co-Cathedral and a Caravaggio Masterpiece
Day 5 – After climbing the massive stairs from The Grand Harbour Hotel up to the centre of Valletta, I visited St John’s Co-Cathedral. Built in the mid 1500s as the church for the Knights of the Order of St John. Although the outside is fairly uneventful, inside tells a completely different story! The ornate decoration in every part of it is breathtaking. It also houses Caravaggio’s famous painting of “The Beheading of St John” (1608), his only signed work.
After that, it was on to the bus to Mtarfa then to Mdina. I only went to Mtarfa because what was once the Royal Naval Hospital where I was born is there. The building is still there, with the sign above the door, I had read it was now a college, but it seemed to be a gigantic unused closed up building. I walked up into Mtarfa village, but there is not much there. You can see Mdina across the valley, just a short bus ride away.
Mdina, the previous capital of Malta, another must visit. Known as the silent city, strolling around inside the city walls was really peaceful, only the occasional clip-clop of horses hooves on the cobbled streets broke the silence.Then just outside the Mdina city walls is the town of Rabat, also good to stroll around and I had a late lunch/early dinner in a pub there.
Gozo, Mosta, and Miracles
Day 6 – Caught the fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo for a day trip. It would have been nice to spend more time in Gozo to really explore it, a day trip really doesn’t do it justice. I went to Victoria, the capital of Goza, then jumped on to the Hop On Hop Off bus, we covered a lot of ground but didn’t have a lot of time to get off and have a really good look knowing I had to be back to Mgarr to catch the ferry back to Valletta. Next time I will plan to spend a few days in Gozo.
Day 7 – to Mosta to visit the Rotunda domed church, (I could see the dome from the Mdina City walls) another amazing building that survived a WWll bomb hitting it, but the bomb didn’t explode – the ‘Miracle of Mosta’. Here you can go up into the dome for the views down into the church, then visit the bomb shelter in the basement, then most importantly, a visit to the cake shop outside is compulsory!!
I was then back on a bus to St Paul’s Bay. The beaches were already full of people in early April, I’m not really a beach person, but it was a nice area to walk around before heading back to Valletta.
Towers, Bastions, and Film Sets
Day 8 took me to another fishing village out on the east coast. Marsaskala, a beautiful bay, I walked for miles around the bay, out to the salt pans then found St Thomas’ Tower, built in the 1600s to defend Malta from yet another invasion from those pesky Ottomans, now housing a very interesting museum.
Still in the mood for more forts, I went back to Valletta and walked out to the point to visit Fort St Elmo and the National War Memorial Museum. I was amazed to see a whole area of derelict terrace houses in Ball’s Bastion, that have been left to rot since the Royal Navy left in the 1960s, their only claim to fame since is they were used as the film set for ‘Midnight Express’. Ball’s Bastion was named for Sir Alexander Ball, the first British Commissioner in Malta in the late 1700s. He was buried there after his death in 1809.
I then continued my walk around the coastline of Valletta. I was trying to find where the Royal Navy Submarine base was, no one seemed to know, but the closest definite/maybe I got was in the bay between Valletta and Manoel Island, now Manoel Island Yacht Marina.
Cannons, Cold Winds, and Farewell
Day 9 started with a visit to the Museum of Archaeology on Republic St, then as I was determined to see the midday Canon Firing at the Saluting Battery, I could see it from the terrace at my hotel about 100mtrs away, but I wanted to see it close up. I went up there at about 11am to stake out my position before the crowds came, it was a cooler windy day so by the time we got to midday, I was freezing, but it was worth it!!
A quick dash back to the hotel to warm up, then on to a bus Manoel Island. I walked across the little bridge on to the island and then walked out to Fort Manoel that I was told was used as the Navy Parade Ground, I also came across a row of derelict terrace houses that were once the homes of Royal Navy Officers. It was quite sad to see everything was overgrown and in ruins. These houses were once used as offices for some government departments for a short time, then their only other use was as a film set….but now just more abandoned naval housing — beautiful, melancholy, and forgotten about…..
Not Nearly Long Enough
Day 10, I was on the 6am ferry from Valletta to Pozzallo in Sicily to continue my solo adventure.
Ten days in Malta was not enough – I’m not even sure that ten weeks would be enough…. that’s the joy of travel — sometimes the best trips are the ones that leave you already planning the next visit.
Follow me on Instagram to see many more photos @trip.over.the.world
To read about the hotels I staying in on my solo adventure to Malta and Sicily, click here.
Itinerary for my Trip Over to Malta
Flew from Sydney to London Heathrow via Singapore, with Qantas on QF1, then QF2 to come home.
Stayed at the Royal Overseas League in St James’s.
Travelled around London using a Visitor Oyster Card.
Flew from London to Malta on British Airways and returned to London from Palermo, Sicily
Caught the ferry from Valletta to Pozzallo in Sicily
Travelled around Sicily by train from Pozzallo to Syracuse, then to Taormina, then to Palermo.
Flew back to London from Palermo on British Airways, spent another few days there before flying back to Sydney.
The moon stole the show at Vivid Sydney, rising up over this tree in front of Governnent House near the Sydney Opera House. Always need a full moon when there is a light show in Sydney!!!
#vividsydney #fullmoon #sydneyoperahouse #sydneyharbour #seetheworldthroughmyeyes
In Budapest, even the things under your feet are worth photographing!📸
A wander around the Fisherman’s Bastion area brought plenty of beautiful sights — from the impressive statue of King Stephen I, Hungary’s first king, to those wonderfully whimsical, fairytale rooftops and turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion.
But then I looked down…And there they were — the manhole covers, complete with the Hungarian coat of arms! 😂
It`s amazing how easily you can become distracted in a city like Budapest. One minute you`re admiring a king on horseback, the next you`re photographing a manhole cover!
Of course, the spectacular views and architecture of Fisherman’s Bastion steal the show, but I love these little details that make exploring a city so much fun.
My advice for Budapest? Keep looking up… but don`t forget to look down too! ❤️
✨️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 #BudapestHistory #SoloTravel
Sydney is having an unbelievably warm winter so far, all blue sky, blue water and sunshine today ☀️!!
The beautiful streets of Valletta, some of the hills and steps are not for the faint hearted!! But it is such an interesting place you just press on regardless.
✨️To read more about my solo adventure to Malta, click the link to my website in the bio - happy travels!
#solotravelinmalta #valletta #malta #soloadventures #sreetsofvalletta
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
Finally… sunshine! ☀️
After several days of Budapest rain, my last full day in the city arrived with blue skies — so there was no way I was staying in bed! I made an early start and caught the bus up to the Castle District, camera in hand and ready to make the most of the sunshine.
My first stops were the impressive Habsburg Gate and the magnificent Turul Bird, Hungary’s mythical bird of prey.
Looking through the Habsburg Gate, I could see the dramatic statue of Prince Eugene of Savoy on horseback, standing proudly in the courtyard, while nearby was the top station of the famous Buda Castle Funicular.
It was one of those mornings when Budapest seemed to say, “Come on, get out there!” — and after all that rain, I was very happy to listen. 😎☀️
✨️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 #HabsburgGate #TurulBird #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
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
The fairytale world of Castle District, perched high above the Danube on the Buda side. Hours of leisurely strolling are a must!!
My solo adventures in Budapest continue...
#budapestcastledistrict #budapest #solotrip
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
🏰 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
Just blew the days food budget on Sacher Torte and Coffee at the Sacher Hotel because......why not??? Priorities, priorities!!
#sachertorte #sacherhotel #solotrip #traveltheworldwithme
✨️Little discoveries on the Danube.....
One of my favourite things about wandering around Budapest is never knowing what you’re going to discover around the next corner. ❤️
Walking along the path near the Danube, I came across three bronze sculptures that immediately caught my eye.
📌First was The Little Princess (Kiskirálylány), sitting happily in her jester’s crown. Created by Hungarian sculptor László Marton, she has become one of Budapest’s much-loved sculptures — and I can certainly see why!
📌Then I found Ignác Roskovics, the Hungarian painter, standing at his easel as though he had simply stopped for a moment to paint the world around him.
📌And finally, a delightful scene of a little girl playing with her dog, created by Hungarian sculptor Dávid Raffay. There’s something wonderfully natural about this one — it feels like a little moment of everyday life captured in bronze.
Three sculptures, three very different stories… and another reminder that in Budapest, you don’t always have to go looking for the sights. Sometimes they find you! 😊
✨️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 #BudapestSculptures #Danube #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel
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
It`s a museum kind of day in Vienna, 2 to 5 degrees, we`ve had a bit of snow, a bit of sleet, a bit of rain and a lot of cold ❄️❄️❄️
The Furniture Museum is a collection of furnture and other items from the Imperial Palaces, including a display of the toilets from the day.
The museum holds huge stores of furniture that they lend out for movies, plays and other events needing furnishings from that era.
#viennafurnituremuseum #coldday❄️ #solotravel #traveltheworldwithme
As usual, when it cones to museums, I usually find the building more interesting than the exhibits!! Vienna Natural History Museum was no exception!!
#viennanaturalhistorymuseum #vienna #solotrip #seetheworldthroughmyeyes
Czech artist, David Cerney, famous for his politically opinionated art works.
✨️Here showing King Wencelas riding an upside down dead horse into battle. Hanging in the Lucerna Palace, Prague.
✨️Then 2 men (politicians??) pissing on the Czech Republic!! This one is outside the Kafka Museum across the Charles Bridge.
#davidčerney #politicalart #prague #solotrip
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
Beautiful day to have another amble around the gardens at Schonbrunn Palace after exploring the Imperial Apartments, in another month these gardens will be in full bloom☀️☀️☀️
#schönbrunnpalace #schönbrunnschloss #palacegardens #solotrip
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
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
Chilly morning in Vienna today, but apparently its going to warm up big time tomorrow! First stop Naschmarkt, then strolling past Karlskirche on my way to Schloss Belvedere.......
#naschmarkt #karlskirche #solotravel #traveltheworldwithme
Next stop… crossing the Danube! 💚
With the sun shining, I walked across Liberty Bridge, one of Budapest’s most distinctive bridges — and another one that is impossible to cross without stopping for photos!
Originally opened in 1896 as part of Hungary’s Millennium celebrations, this beautiful Art Nouveau bridge was badly damaged during World War II. It was the first of Budapest’s Danube bridges to be rebuilt after the war, reopening in 1946.
My favourite detail has to be the enormous bronze Turul birds perched high on the bridge’s masts. 🦅 The Turul is a mythical bird from Hungarian tradition, so these impressive creatures seem perfectly at home watching over the Danube.
Blue skies, sunshine, the Danube beneath me and those magnificent Turuls overhead…such a shame its my last full day in Budapest. After all the grey days in Budapest, this was definitely a bridge crossing worth celebrating! ☀️
✨️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 #LibertyBridge #Danube #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel
A day trip from Valletta to Gozo is very easy, taking the fast ferry gives great views all the way up the north coast of Malta. You can then get around on buses, or the hop on, hop off bus, and plenty of walking.....I wish I could have spent more time there, next time I stay for a few days✨️
Click the link to my website to read about my 10 day solo adventure in Malta
#solotravelinmalta #soloadventures #gozo #malta #solitravel
✨ 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
St Matthias Church in the Castle District near Fisherman`s Bastion. Climb the steep stone spiral staircase for a stunning view into the main church and explore the artifacts on display. This historic church dates back to the 11th century.
#solotrip #stmatthiaschurch #budapestcastledistrict
Budapest certainly knows how to slow you down—in the best possible way!
✨️On my first morning, I set off towards the magnificent Central Market Hall, but as always, I was happily distracted along the way. Passing through Vörösmarty Square, I discovered the impressive Carrara marble statue of 19th-century romantic poet Mihály Vörösmarty. Perched high on its pedestal, he`s surrounded by 20 beautifully sculpted figures representing the many social classes of the Hungarian people—a fascinating piece of history hidden in plain sight.
✨️Everywhere you look, Budapest`s architecture demands your attention. Even the entrances are works of art! It takes forever to get anywhere because there`s always another beautiful building, sculpture or hidden corner waiting to be admired.
✨️One of my favourites was the stunning Art Deco entrance to the Matild Palace. Then, tucked away in a nearby lane, I found the charming bronze sculpture of writer and journalist Gyula Krúdy, sitting at a table with his notebook, looking as though he`s waiting for someone to stop by and share a story.
✨️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 #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel #WomenWhoTravel #CentralEurope
Walking from Bratislava train station to the town centre takes 15 minutes, passing through a park and by the parliament buildings before reaching the historic cobblestone streets.
This is where the touristification of the town kicks in, every shop is a restaurant or souvenier shop.
Even the castle is a remake of what they think tourists want to see....we actually want to see the original castle!!
#bratislava #streetsofbratislava #solotravel #seetheworldthroughmyeyes
.....further to my previous post. I walked past Hochstrahlbrunne, a fountain built in 1873 to celebrate the opening of Vienna`s high pressure water system. Then once I arrived at Schloss Belvedere, I found that this was not the place to be at Easter. There was one long queue to buy a ticket to stand in one of 3 other long queues to get in!!! Even one of the staff on crowd control said he had never seen it like this - I`ll go back after the Easter weekend crowds have left.
#vienna #viennaeaster #soloteavel #changeofplans
At the top of Wenceslas Square stands the National Museum in Prague, an impressive building with breathtaking views from the Cupola.
#praguenationalmuseum #solotravel #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
Beautiful Prague in spring was the next stop on my recent solo adventure to central Europe, where I stayed at Hotel Grandium ✨️ Lovely place in a great location and nice and close to the station, perfect if you arrive by rail.
✨️Check out the hotels I stayed in by clicking the link to my website in the bio.
#grandiumprague #solotravel
Arriving in Vienna, I found my hotel at set off exploring the neighbourhood, the architecture is all gobsmacking, but hard to get far enough away from to photograph!!
#vienna #traveltheworldwithme #neverstopexploring #solotravel
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
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
Caught the train from Vienna to Bratislava for a day trip. Walking up the hill to visit the castle is not for the faint hearted!! And the walk back down 🥴 brutal on the dodgy knee!!! But I made it 😃!!!
#bratislava #daytripfromvienna #daytripfromviennatobratislava #traveltheworldwithme #solotravel
Dinner at the Parisi Passage, a historic gem from the 1800s inspired by Parisian arcades, it withstood bombing raids but faced neglect post-war, now revived as a stunning hotel with an incredible restaurant and bar.
#solotravel #parisipassage #parisipassagebudapest #párisipassagecaféandbrasserie
Memorial to the Jews who were rounded up during WWII, they were lined up on the edge of the Danube, forced to remove their shoes, then they were shot in the back and their bodies fell into the river.......
#shoesonthedanube #solotravel #busapest #traveltheworldwithme
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
When you’re exploring a city on your own, sometimes you just have to trust your instincts… and recognise a park when you see one! 😂🚌
After leaving Margaret Island, I jumped on a bus with absolutely no idea where it was heading. But then I spotted City Park — somewhere I recognised — so I knew that if I got off there, I wouldn’t be completely lost!
I walked past the magnificent Széchenyi Thermal Bath and continued through the grounds of Vajdahunyad Castle. And what a difference a little sunshine makes! ☀️ I’d visited the castle earlier in my trip under gloomy grey skies, but seeing it again beneath brilliant blue skies was like discovering it all over again.
The towers, turrets and beautiful architecture looked completely different in the sunshine — and suddenly I understood why Budapest decided to keep this “temporary” castle after the Millennium Exhibition!
Same castle, completely different mood. ❤️
✨️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 #VajdahunyadCastle #CityParkBudapest #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel
On a chilly Budapest morning, but the blue sky was a nice touch ✨️. I was planning to visit the Hungarian Parliament Building today... but Saturday crowds got the best of me! The exterior of this building is stunning, can`t wait to explore the inside.
#solotravel #hungarianparliamentbuilding #budapest #budapestarchitecture
Exploring Prague with lots of walking and lots of tram rides! Walking across Charles Bridge, up to the castle, through Lesser Town, into New Town, and historic Old Town.
#prague #praguelife #solotravel #seetheworldthroughmyeyes #seeeverythingdoeverything
🏰 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
The Vivid Sydney light show in Argyle Cut, looking along Argyle St from Cumberland St, The Rocks.
#vividsydney #traveltheworldwithme #sydney #seeeverythingdoeverything #seetheworldthroughmyeyes
Just when I thought Margaret Island couldn’t surprise me any more, I came across this beautiful little oasis. 🌿💚
Tucked away along the path was a peaceful Japanese garden, complete with a lovely pond filled with colourful Koi and some very relaxed turtles who clearly had nowhere else they needed to be! 🐢
And watching over it all was a charming Little Mermaid statue, sitting quietly beside the water.
After a busy morning exploring Budapest, this was the perfect place to slow down for a while, enjoy the greenery and watch the Koi and turtles doing what they do best — absolutely nothing in a hurry! 😂
Another unexpected little discovery on Margaret Island… and one of my favourite peaceful moments of the day. 🌸
✨️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 #JapaneseGarden #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel
🏰 The climb was worth it!
After tackling the steep stairs and pathways up to Fisherman`s Bastion, I finally reached the top — and was greeted by the magnificent bronze statue of King Stephen I of Hungary on horseback.
Created by sculptor Alajos Stróbl and unveiled in 1906, the statue is packed with incredible detail. From the flowing robes (hard to believe they are all made of bronze!) and armour to the powerful horse and ornate stone pedestal, there`s plenty to admire. King Stephen I holds a very special place in Hungarian history. Crowned around the year 1000, he became Hungary`s first king and played a major role in establishing Hungary as a Christian kingdom.
After all those stairs, I was more than happy to stop and admire him… and, of course, take a few photos while pretending I wasn`t secretly catching my breath! 😉
Sometimes the journey to a landmark is half the adventure — and in Budapest, it often comes with a pretty spectacular reward at the top. ❤️
Have you climbed the steps up to Fisherman`s Bastion? Or were you smarter and caught the bus????😀
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 #FishermansBastion #KingStephen #HungaryTravel #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
Hotel Pension Suzanne in Vienna is in the perfect location, walking distance to everything, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, shops and museums.
✨️Safe, quiet and comfortable, all requirements of the solo traveller
✨️Click the link to my website in the bio for more information on the hotels I stayed in on my recent solo adventure to Budapest, Vienna and Prague.
#hotelpensionsuzanne #solotravel #solotrip #vienna #traveltheworldwithme
✨ A little medieval magic in Budapest…
While exploring the grounds of Vajdahunyad Castle, I came across this beautiful little gem — Ják Chapel.
With its Romanesque arches, stonework and wonderfully atmospheric entrance, it looks as though it has been lifted straight from a medieval village in Hungary. And there`s a reason for that!
Ják Chapel was inspired by the 13th-century Benedictine church at Ják, one of Hungary`s finest examples of Romanesque architecture. The chapel we see here was designed by Ignác Alpár as part of the Vajdahunyad Castle complex, created for Hungary`s Millennium celebrations in 1896.
And with the rather gloomy Budapest weather, the medieval atmosphere was even more convincing! ☁️🏰
Another beautiful discovery in City Park. ❤️
#Budapest #VajdahunyadCastle #JakChapel #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel
✨ A little taste of Paris… in Budapest!
I stumbled upon Párisi Passage in Budapest and, honestly, this is one of those places where you walk in and immediately forget where you were going!
Tucked beneath the impressive Párisi Udvar building, this spectacular glass-roofed passage is a feast for the eyes, with its ornate Art Nouveau and Neo-Gothic details, beautiful mosaics, stained glass and sparkling chandeliers.
The building dates back to the early 20th century, when Budapest was enjoying its golden age and competing with the great European cities for architectural bragging rights. And I think it did rather well!
Today, the passage is home to a beautiful café and hotel, making it the perfect place to stop for a coffee and admire the architecture from the inside.
Sometimes the best discoveries are the ones you weren`t actually looking for! ❤️
Would you add Párisi Passage to your Budapest itinerary?
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 #BudapestTravel #HungaryTravel #SoloTravel
