The official gateway to Europe, London is a vibrant city, rich with culture and history. I've been privileged to visit London over half a dozen times and every time I do I fall even more in love!
From hearing the chimes from the iconic Big Ben to watching the changing of the guards at the famous Buckingham Palace, this city is any tourist's dream destination. Check out my bucket list London guide for planning your first trip!

There are no words to perfectly describe Venice. This incredibly enchanting city is a labyrinth of canals with an abundance of bridges linking the city together. Boats and Gondolas sail down the blue waters and the canals are filled with upmarket hotels and bright colourful houses.

What first struck me during my visit was the lack of smell. I assumed and had heard due to pollution the canal waters were dirty and littered with discarded rubbish. I was pleasantly surprised to discover this wasn't the case at all. I definitely wouldn't want to fall in the water but there was nothing to detract from the beauty that surrounded me.

Getting lost in Venice is inevitable. Luckily for me Venice is by far my favourite city to get lost in! Each street is uniquely different and no matter how far you wonder you always seem to find your way back. Have fun exploring this maze on foot! You'll find trendy cafes, stunning architecture and Venetian mask stalls all in the most unexpected places.  

Once you've explored the floating city by foot, be sure to discover it from within. Top of my bucket list, for good reason, was taking a ride on one of the the iconic Gondolas. Gliding through the canals is a breathtaking romantic moment that makes you fall madly in love with Italy! Drift under bridges and weave between quaint canals to discover a side of Venice that can only be experienced by water.

For some incredible sites spend your afternoon strolling through St Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco). The history and architecture date back to the 9th century and is an integral meeting place for citizens and tourists as it is the largest open space in Venice. Make sure to watch out for Pigeons who flock the area in substancial numbers! I was treated to unexpected flooding during my time in St Mark's Square last September. If it's raining don't forget your gumboots or you'll soon find yourself knee deep in water! Incredibly the water actually rises through the pavements.

Slowly but surely it's important to remember that this incredible city is sinking an estimated 2 cms per year. Be sure to discover the old-fashioned charm of Venice before it disappears before your eyes.

Bonjour! Welcome to the city of incredible architecture, history, cuisine and sexy Parisian accents. Paris has always been in the spot light for a 'must see' Europe destination. It wasn’t until I visited this breathtaking city myself that I could really comprehend why!

Due to time constraints I had only 24 hours to explore this vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Where to start! I opted with an early morning visit to the internationally recognised Eiffel Tower! Standing 320 m tall this once oversized radio tower is the icon of France. If you like adventure you can choose to climb all 1,710 steps of this iron beauty. Don’t worry, if you are lazy like me there is a lift available to take you to the viewing platform. Either way you choose you will be lost for words once discovering a 360 degree birds eye view of the city!

Paris has a rich culture and history so next up I ventured to the Louvre to appreciate several historical unique pieces of art. The building itself is impressive to say the least. Once inside uncover an extensive collection of sculptures and artwork. If crowds don’t bother you be sure to take a selfie with Leonardo Da Vinci's most popular piece, the Mona Lisa! I was personally shocked at how small it was and much preferred the remaining collection in that particular gallery.

One of the highlights during my whirlwind Paris adventure was the Catacombs. Venture down a seeming never ending tunnel to discover an underground cemetery. Floor to ceiling you’ll walk past the remains, bones and skulls of an estimated 6 million people. Dating back to the 18th century, the Paris Catacombs is a truly unique experience. 

After completing your Catacombs tour I would recommend a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral. Rumoured to have been built in 1163, Notre Dame Cathedral is incredible and every inch of the structure is covered with gothic inspired detail. As for the stain glass windows? Purely stunning!

Spend your evening discovering Paris by night. Every hour on the hour the Effiel Tower lights up in a stunning sparkling display. Explore the Arch of Triumph or simply lay down a picnic rug under the stars with a bottle of champagne to soak in the beauty. 

As for cuisine? A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without indulging in frogs legs (which reminds me of bland chicken), escargot and pastries. It really is easy to understand why most travellers leave Europe a few kilograms heavier!

24 hours in a city is only ever enough to scratch the surface. If time permits I would suggest exploring the city by bike or cruising down the Seine River. France is also renowned for it’s Cabaret shows so be sure to book your tickets in advance if you are wanting to experience one. 

For other European destinations check out my Top 5 Underrated European Cities

ISTANBUL - TURKEY
After seeing the movie Taken 2, which is based in this incredible city, I quickly added Istanbul to my must see city list. After a painful overnight coach from Greece, 50 euro spent on a visa and against all my family’s pleas to avoid this country I found myself anything but disappointed! Istanbul offers an authentic cultural experience like no other. Take a stroll through the chaotic Grand Bazaar markets which is full of vibrant colours and amazing photo opportunities. Sip traditional Turkish tea while marvelling at the Blue Mosque or explore the local spice markets. At night wander the streets down alleyways and backstreets to find yourself outstanding doner kebabs for next to nothing while exploring street stalls selling handmade scarfs, purses and fabrics. My only regret about this city is that I couldn’t stay longer!

LISBON - PORTUGAL
Spending 6 weeks covering the generic Europe spots I found myself craving something a little different. A cheap flight with EasyJet found me in this charming city in under 3 hours. There is something special about this city that I can’t quite put my finger on. Besides from the obvious charms there is a relaxed atmosphere that makes you question if you are in fact in a capital city. To start your trip take a tram ride around the city centre to take in the sights. The houses here are incredible. All are tiled different colours and patterns making each street uniquely individual. Head to Rossio Square which reminds me a little of St Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy. Discover exquisite statues and an opportunity to feel the sand between your toes down at the waterfront. During your stay be sure to keep an eye out for Lisbon’s creative street art and and talented buskers. Lastly don’t forget to stop into Case Pasteis De Belem which has been serving the world’s best custard tarts since 1837. The long lines are well worth the wait.. trust me! 

BUDAPEST - HUNGARY
Budapest has to be on par with Istanbul as my favourite European city. Not only is this one of Europe's most affordable cities, it is faster paced with an abundance of things to experience. Spend a day relaxing in one of the many thermal baths avaliable. I would highly recommend the Szechenyi Baths which are over 100 years old. Pay your respects while touching up on your communist and nazi history at the House of Terror. If you’re travelling to Budapest in winter don’t miss iceskating in the city park! Skating under the stars in front of the Vajdahunyad Castle, Europe’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink, has to be one of my most memorable european experiences. If you enjoy having a few drinks don’t pass up an opportunity to sample one of Europe’s best nightlife cities. With hookah bars on several street corners and underground ruins bars you are spoilt for choice!

BELGRADE - SERBIA
It was by pure convenience I found myself submerged in the heart of Belgrade. Onroute from Spain heading to Greece my best friend and I boarded the EuroRail with days of travel ahead of us. After 2 days we were both more then ready for a hot shower and an actual bed. While I can’t imagine calling this city beautiful in the generic sense, it is definitely a cultural eye opener. The best way to explore Belgrade is on foot. Check out the stunning St Sava Orthodox Temple whose bells can be heard hourly from streets away. Take a stroll down Knez Mihailova Street which is centre point to the city and offers a unique cultural shopping experience from cafes to designer label outlets. To experience something different head to the less appealing areas such as Deponija which I can only imagine is quite similar to Brazil’s Favela. Overall Belgrade offers an all round unique experience and is the reason I have vowed to myself to take advantage of all future layover destinations where possible.

HAMBURG - GERMANY
With Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt all front of mind when it comes to Germany it is no wonder I had never heard of Hamburg before stumbling upon it. One word... Beautiful! Sure it was -4 degrees and snowflakes were beginning to fall but what better way to experience winter in Europe? No one does Christmas better then Germany. The further north through Europe I travelled the more the Christmas atmosphere grew. Hamburg was no exception. The streets were littered with stunning decorations, fairy lights and trees. I was dreading being away from home for my first Christmas ever however Hamburg eased the burden. It was only December 2nd when I visited so just the beginning of the festive season. However I was spoilt with Hamburg’s Christmas markets! You can pick up exquisite hand made ball balls and sample an array of mouth watering chocolate. I couldn’t recommend this city more highly during Winter. My only regret is I haven’t experienced it in summer!

From the iconic Big Ben to the famous Red Telephone Boxes... No backpacking trip would be complete without a stop in London. 

I have had the pleasure of exploring this incredibly fast paced vibrant city 7 times so far. Unfortunately though as we all know if you are an Australian you are bound to loose upwards of 45 cents to the dollar when exchanging your cash to pounds.

Check out my tips to surviving a trip to London without breaking the bank!

1. BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION PRIOR TO YOUR ARRIVAL
I highly recommend never booking more then your first or second night accommodation in a new destination simply because it allows for more flexibility. London however is the one exception to the rule. Besides from the Scandinavian regions, London is the most expensive city I have ever visited. There is nothing worse then being caught out with no where to stay or paying more for a hotel room then a liver would sell for on the black market. Accommodation in this city sells out fast and hostels tend to at least double dorm room rates on weekends. For your best chance to avoid this while still securing a central location, book in advance! Companies such as the Travel Lodge also offer several weekly discounts online so be sure to sign up to ensure you get more bang for your buck.

2. INVEST IN AN OYSTER CARD
London is a large city and quite spread out. The London Tube system is extremely fast and efficient with trains arriving every 1-5 minutes. This allows for a smooth and easy travel experience all over the city. For the low price of 5 pound you can purchase an Oyster Card online before your arrive or at any London Tube Station. All you have to do is load up your card with money at a station and away you go. The Oyster Card discounts fares by as much as half. It is a great alternative to buying single or daily passes, especially if you have an extended stay. Don’t worry. Once you leave London you can return your Oyster card and be 5 pound richer!

3. MEAL DEALS
One of my favourite London pastimes is taking a stroll down to St James Park to hand feed the squirrels, read a book and soak up the sunshine. All with my Tesco lunch! Large supermarket companies such as Tesco and Sainsbury offer affordable 3 pound meal deals. This includes a 600ml drink, a sandwich/wrap and a choice of a chocolate bar, yogurt tub or fruit bag. This is a great way to save your pennies for more exciting activities such as sight seeing. If cold lunches aren’t your style there is always McDonalds! McDonalds offers a different wrap flavour daily and all for 2 pounds!

4. BOOK YOUR ACTIVITIES IN BULK
London has endless activities on offer. A great way to experience the main highlights such as the London Eye and the London Dungeons is to book your activities together. Get anywhere from 10-25% off when you book 2 or more activities together. This deal can be obtained both online or by visiting the ticket booths. The great news is you don't have to do all your activities on the same day. To find the ticket booths simply catch the tube to Westminster Station and exit left. Cross the the bridge with Big Ben on your right and you can spot the London Eye on your left.

5. GET WALKING
There is so much to see and do in London.. All for FREE! All you have to know is where to go. Take a stroll through the Camden markets or down the famous Oxford Street shopping district. Head down to Buckingham Palace around 11 on selected days to watch the changing of the guards. Walk the perimeter of the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey or Big Ben! If you are feeling overwhelmed several hostels in London offer free walking tours around the city which is a great way to start!

If you have any other tips for getting the most out of London without spending a fortune I'd love to hear your thoughts!