Before studying abroad, I never thought about visiting Central Europe. I had always thought of it as a cold, boring place that had nothing exciting or interesting to offer. But I could not have been more wrong, closed-minded, and naive. I had no idea what to expect before my visit, besides what I could find on Pinterest. Whenever I told someone that I was spending half my summer in Central Europe, they would usually respond asking "Why?" None of my friends had been there before, nor did any of them want to. Many people may believe that Central Europe isn't as glamorous as Western Europe, but these pictures will easily prove them wrong.
1. Wrocław, Poland
This is the largest city in Western Poland and the fourth largest in the country. It sits right on the River Oder. Also, how could you ever be in a bad mood surrounded by colorful buildings?
2. Bratislava, Slovakia
This country's capital is full of museums, galleries, theaters and universities. It is also home to a stone castle built in the 10th-century and every step you take is worth the view once you finally make it to the top. Once you get back into the town, nothing beats dining in this little square.
3. Brno, Czech Republic
Brno is one of the largest cities in the Czech Republic, second to Prague. This Moravian gem is full of shopping, skeleton bones, and statutes. Unlike Prague, which is geared toward tourists, Brno feels like a more authentic Czech city where everyone speaks the language and the food's not overpriced.
4. Kraków, Poland
This city is one of the oldest and largest in Poland. It is guaranteed to not disappoint. Cheap vodka and good sausage, what else could you want?
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Southern Poland
This salt mine has a church in the bottom of it. I repeat A CHURCH. It also has a lake, a reception area, a gift shop, several chandeliers, a restaurant and most importantly, wifi.
6. Olomouc, Czech Repulic
This little town square was my home for 5 and a half weeks and will always be close to my heart. Since this city is not overpopulated with tourists, visitors get a sense of what it's like to live like a local. Also, this is the cheapest place I have ever been. Great for travelers ballin' on a budget.
7. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
I'm not sure if "town" is the right word to use for this place, more like Magical Little Kingdom. Looking at the orange-colored roof tops standing in the middle of the river and the grassy-green hills makes you wonder how you've never heard of this place before.
8. Vienna, Austria
How am I supposed to choose only one picture for this city when there's so much it offers? This city reminds me of a mini Paris or an upscale NYC. I could show you the Schonbrunn palace or the Belvedere or St. Stephen's Cathedral, but I guess you'll just have to go and see it for yourself.
9. Budapest, Hungary
Taking a river cruise down the Danube River in this city is something that you MUST put on your bucket-list right now. The way each building glows in the ambient lighting makes you want to jump in the water and never leave. And don't even get me started on the nightlife in this crazy place. All I have to say is 2 words. Ruin. Bar.
10. Prague, Czech Republic
And last but not least, Prague. Where I spent the last 4 days of my study abroad trip and the best 4 days of my life. Charles Bridge, John Lennon wall, astronomical clock, Old Town square, Prague castle, 5-story dance club, are you convinced yet?
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