Fairytale towns in Europe that tug at a woman’s heart….

‘I travel, therefore I am.”

Having traveled to 29 countries and definitely planning to add as many more to that list as soon as possible, here is a list of cities and locations in Europe that I find close to my heart.

Italy: Positano

It’s really hard to pick just one place in a beautiful country like Italy, especially as the charming Italian men make you feel special anywhere and everywhere you go! Yet Positano, along the Amalfi coast is undoubtedly my favourite. A small town of over a thousand steps, it’s not for those with weak knees. But the sheer prettiness of it will make you go weak in the knees for sure. The dramatic coastline, limestone cliffs, the coral pink houses, Sorrentine orange and lemon trees, mosaic churches, narrow cobblestone alleys with shops and cafes make it a totally Dream destination on any Europe Tour package. Sip a Sangria on the beach, read Elizabeth Adlers book “The house in Amalfi”, watch the sailboats in the azure blue sea, the most unforgettable sunsets !

Portugal: Sintra

Half an hour away from Lisbon lies a magical town on a hilltop that has fascinated royalty and nobility over the years and they built their palaces and palatial residences there. These grand mansions and their pristine surroundings are a perfect blend of nature and man-made creations and will captivate you the moment you set foot there. Tingle your senses with a breath of fresh mountain air, wander around the perfectly manicured gardens and explore Pena and Monserrate palaces and grounds for a taste of royalty.

Austria: Vienna

Palaces galore: Schonnbrunn, Hofburg, Belvedere how many palaces can you be bewitched by in one city? If you have the same thoughts as Julie Andrews who said “Like most girls, I fantasized about being some sort of a princess.” you will simply love all of them!

Schonnbrunn Palace:

This was once a Hunting Lodge which was later transformed into a summer palace for the Imperial family. Spread over 435 acres just outside of Vienna city, it’s a mesmerizing journey through the staterooms and gardens, admiring the grandiosity of it all. Don’t miss the concerts of the musical maestro Mozart in the evening. It’s a day well spent!

Hofburg Palace:

It means “Royal Castle” and was the winter palace and seat of government for the Imperial rulers of Austria. There are various wings open to visitors, but the most fascinating is the Kaiser or the Imperial apartments where you can follow the majestic trail of Empress Elizabeth with a Sisi Ticket. Regale her life, the agonies and glories and admire the free spirit and beauty of this intriguing icon.

Belvedere Palace:

Two Baroque palaces in one garden studded statues and marble fountains at the outskirts of the city house a beautiful collection of paintings, especially the works of the iconic artist Gustav Klimt and his masterpiece “The Kiss”.

In the evening get some me time, relax and enjoy the best of the Viennese coffee and Sacher torte in the heart of the city.

Germany: Neuschwanstein Castle

The most charming of the Bavarian castles in the Alps in a picturesque setting of mountains and valleys inspired Walt Disney to create the Magical Kingdom and use the design of this fairytale castle in their logo. Built by the “fairytale” King Ludwig, it reflects his admiration for the renowned composer Richard Wagner. Linger around the enchanting town of Fussen at the end of the Romantic Road and its pretty Altstadt (old city centre) and lakes.