Opera in Vienna

One of the highlights in Vienna is seeing an opera performance at the State Opera House. Even if you're not into opera the interior of the building is worth seeing. It's in excellent condition and makes you feel as if you've stepped back in time into the gilded age. For a mere 3 EUR you can get standing room tickets and enjoy the show. There is a dress code however: don't wear shorts. And do wear comfortable shoes, the standing will wear you down. The State Opera House is located at the "Opera" U-Bahn (metro) station and there's an opera performance on nearly every night.

Old Town Square, Prague

It may be rammed with tourists (although not as many as Paris) but Prague is still definitely worth visiting. This image was captured inbetween massive tour groups walking past. The city was largely spared from bombing during WWII, making one of the best preserved medieval city centres in all of Europe. It's easy to wander around on your own but to get a good sense of history there are a couple of free walking tours available which meet by the astronomical clock. I went with the "yellow shirt" one and our guide was knowledgable, funny, and keen to show us the highlights of Prague. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and the guides work entirely on tips.

The astronomical clock (the tower on the left) does a little show every hour on the hour and lasts about 1.5 minutes. Personally, I thought it was a bit disappointing and not worth waiting for. Some figurines out of doors in the clock and someone plays a trumpet from the top of the tower. But if you happen to be near the clock on the hour then it's worth having a look.

Szechenyi Bath and Spa, Budapest

Szechenyi Bath and Spa in Budapest is the most amazing bath I've ever been to. It's build into a historic building and features a massive outdoor swimming pool and loads of different heated pools indoors. Going from bath to ice pool to sauna and back again is an invigorating and healing experience. It's hard to believe that after a whole day of lounging in the different spa pools I was knackered! The spa is located a few hundred metres beyond Heroes Square in the City Park and the entrance fee is 3400 HUF (~15 USD). If you spend the day here it's definitely worth the fee. For more info: http://www.szechenyibath.com/

Krakow's Market Square

Krakow's Market Square is the heart of the old city. Thankfully it wasn't destroyed by the Nazis during the war and today it's buzzing with tourists snapping photos and sipping coffee at the many outdoor cafes. Due to its tourist allure, you won't see many locals hanging out around here...