Food and wine are ingrained in Roman culture and sampling some of the best dishes the city has to offer doesn’t have to cost the earth! From crunchy deep-fried artichoke drizzled in olive oil and flawlessly thin charred pizza to creamy al dente cacio e pepe topped with lashings of parmesan and rich chocolate tiramisu; you can easily try the best of these Roman classics on a budget. 

Doing your research, avoiding restaurants too close to tourist spots, and eating where Italians do, are key to the quality of the meals you have and the total cost of your bill. Here’s my top ten budget-friendly eateries in Rome to get you started!

Le Mani in Pasta

Le Mani in Pasta’s entrance is tucked away down a side street in Trastevere.

Begin your meal with a bottle of Primitivo before ordering a starter of sliced seabass sprinkled with truffle. For main, go for the sharing platter of lobster pasta (€40 for 2). Prepare to get messy as you crack and scoop out the lobster and slurp down the perfectly cooked pasta.

The fish is fresh, the service is charismatic, and the bill is always surprisingly low.

Via Dei Genovesi 37 – 00153

Piccolo Buco

Located down a side street near the Trevi Fountain, Piccolo Buco is a small pizzeria with a big reputation. The owner of the restaurant takes such pride in the process of creating their pizza dough, and it shows – the pizzas are works of art!

Each pizza has a puffed-up, crunchy crust framing the base and toppings. You can choose from a white or red base and an impressive selection of toppings including a whole ball of burrata and nduja sausage drizzled with homemade pesto. Pizza prices range from €12 – €18.

Via del Lavatore 91 – 00187

Pastificio Guerra

Representing the fast food of Italy – homemade fresh pasta to-go!

Pastificio Guerra is a small pasta shop just around the corner from the Spanish Steps. From 1pm daily, they open their doors to hungry Italians and tourists desperate to sample their pasta dishes of the day. There are only two types of pasta on offer each day and a takeaway box costs a bargain €4.50.

Via della Croce 8, Piazza di Spagna – 00187

Da Enzo al 29

The inescapable queue outside of Da Enzo al 29 is evidence that this trattoria is legendary.

Da Enzo al 29 is famous for perfecting two popular Roman dishes – deep-fried artichoke and cacio e pepe. Accompany these with the sharing plate of burrata, tomatoes, and basil, and a bottle of your waiter’s recommended red wine, and you’ll soon see why people happily wait over an hour for a table. Mains cost around €12 – €18.

Via Dei Vascellari 29 – 00153

Tonarello

Tonarello sits in a delightful spot opposite the grand Basilica di Santa Maria of Trastevere and its menu relies heavily on recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation.

“Nonna Nadia” (€8.50) is a firm favourite pasta dish consisting of al dente spaghetti tossed in a tomato sauce with aubergine, olives, and capers, as well as their selection of different types of meatballs, served with chicory and roast potatoes (€14.50).

Via della Paglia 1, 2, 3 – 00153

Dar Poeta

Dar Poeta is the epitome of how you’d envision an Italian pizzeria in Rome.

Start with a bottle of their house red wine (€16) and a plate of bruschetta before moving on to the star of the show. Go for the radicchio and gorgonzola pizza (€8.50) if you fancy something rich or the parmigiana (€8.50) for a no-frills tasty topping. Make sure you also leave room for their famous Nutella calzone.

Dar Poeta is affordable, and fuss-free dining in quintessential Italian surroundings. 

Vicolo del Bologna 45 – 00153

200 Gradi

200 Gradi is located just around the corner from The Vatican and specialises in fast, affordable sandwiches filled with top-quality Italian ingredients.

If you want to stick with the best of Italian, go for the ‘Cavour’ – parma ham, mushrooms, Italian smoked cheese, rocket, and their home spicy sauce (€7) or, if you fancy something a bit different go for the ’Nicosia’ – gorgonzola, grilled aubergine, rocket salad, and walnut cream (€7). Each sandwich tastes as fresh as it looks and can be eaten in or taken away.

Piazza del Risorgimento 3 – 00192

La Tavernaccia da Bruno

La Tavernacca da Bruno in Trastevere is a family affair. The original owners, Persiani Bruno and Giuliacci Giovanna opened the restaurant in 1968 and now it is run by their two daughters.

The menu boasts affordable, ancient Roman and Lazio recipes using the best locally sourced ingredients. Go for one of their specialties – pappardelle with wild boar, or slow-roasted suckling pig and a bottle or two of their regional wine.

Via Giovanni da Castel Bolognese 63 – 00153

Ai Marmi

Ai Marmi is a pizza institute in Trastevere.

The large restaurant is filled with marble tables that are pushed together to accommodate the masses of people who flock here for cheap, crispy thin pizza.

The menu is extensive, affordable, and includes some interesting toppings such as, courgette and pumpkin flowers. Don’t be surprised if you walk past at 1am and the place is still heaving – it’s the go-to pizza spot day and night. A Pizza will set you back around €6 – €10.

Viale di Trastevere 53, 00153

Pompi

Rumour has it Pompi serves the best tiramisu in Rome!

This patisserie shop has several locations across Rome and serves everything from cakes, desserts, and cannoli to ice cream, coffee, and tiramisu (€5 per slice). You can choose from a selection of tiramisu flavours including original, pistachio, and strawberry and each one is as soft, rich, creamy, and coffee soaked as you’d hope.

See their website for all locations: www.barpompi.it

I hope these top 10 budget-friendly eateries give you some inspo for your trip to Rome!

Marvel at the shimmering Christmas lights, warm up with a spiced mulled wine or hot Aperol from a market stall, browse traditional Hungarian souvenirs and submerge yourself in a natural thermal bath. Here’s how to maximise 24 hours in Budapest!

Morning

Vörösmarty Tér Christmas Market

Once you’ve arrived at your accommodation, wrap up warm and head straight to Vörösmarty Tér Christmas Market – the oldest and most popular market in the city.

Start by perusing the stalls adorned with wreaths, baubles, and twinkling fairy lights. Here you’ll find everything from ceramics, jewellery, and artwork to mulled wine, goulash, and roasted chestnuts. Make sure you sample the traditional Hungarian street food dish Langos, a deep-fried bread topped with garlic butter, sour cream, and cheese before moving on to Hungary’s famous chimney cake with your choice of toppings.

Afternoon

Head to the waterfront where you’ll find the spectacular spikey skyline of Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion across the river Danube. To the right, you’ll also be able to spot the impressive Chain Bridge, which is one of eight bridges connecting Buda and Pest.

Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion

If you’d like to visit Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion hop on the Line 16 bus. Alternatively, you can walk, take a taxi, or jump on the funicular at the bottom of Buda Castle hill. You can visit the castle courtyards for free or organise a tour to go inside.

Once you’re done exploring, walk to Fisherman’s Bastion, which offers outstanding views across Pest including the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building.

Budapest Thermal Baths

If you’d rather spend your afternoon relaxing, visit one of Budapest’s thermal baths. Széchenyi Thermal Baths are the most famous and can be found in City Park. Booking ahead is advised and tickets cost between 9,400 and 10,900 HUF (£20 – £25). Other thermal baths include Gellért, Rudas, and Király.

Evening

St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market

Now’s the time to head back to the city centre to experience the prettiest Christmas Market in Budapest at St. Stephen’s Basilica. This Christmas market is hugged by some of the most beautiful architecture in Budapest and comes alive at night-time – as you approach the road that leads up to the Basilica, you can’t help but be wowed.

A line of wooden market stalls selling strudel, quality handicrafts, and ‘festive punch’ perfectly frame the grand Basilica and sparkling bow-embellished Christmas tree. Beneath the Basilica you’ll find a square with more stalls, a small ice rink, and live music. Make sure you stick around for the festive light show, which projects on the Basilica daily every half an hour from 5.30pm – 10pm.

Dinner

If you want a budget-friendly dinner, grab something from one of the many food street stalls. Warming goulash, crispy potato pancakes, roasted duck leg, and hun-dogs – baguette, pickles, and Hungarian sausage – are all dishes you’ll find everywhere.

Alternatively, head back to your hotel to check-in and freshen up, and then venture out to your choice of restaurant. Budapest has a great restaurant scene and you can sample anything from traditional Hungarian cuisine to Mediterranean, Jewish, and Asian. Well-reputed restaurants to check out include Mazel Tov, Rosenstein, TwentySix, and Café Kor.

Nightlife

After dinner, go to one of the city’s world-renowned ruin bars. These wacky neglected pre-war buildings have become somewhat of an institute in Budapest’s nightlife and are made up of rooms brimming with quirky furniture and a buzzing atmosphere. Some of the most popular ruin bars are Szimpla Kert, UdvarRom and Ellato Kert.

Morning

If time allows head to Cirkusz for breakfast. This trendy café has been coined one of the world’s top brunch spots and serves everything from pulled pork benedict to American pancakes and waffles. You may have to wait for a table but, rumour has it, their eggs benedict is worth missing your flight home for…

 24 hours isn’t long to soak up everything Budapest has to offer but I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of the time you have!

I like to embrace the spontaneity of being able to go wherever I want and change my plans at the drop of a hat if somewhere else tickles my fancy.

This way of travelling has a lot of benefits however, it also has a few downfalls when sights book up fast.

This is what happened to me with The Alhambra.

A sprawling 14th century palace and fortress complex tucked away in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, The Alhambra in Granada is understandably one of the most visited spots in Spain and in high season, tickets can sell out months in advance. When my Mum told me this little bit of information, I wasn’t best pleased, The Alhambra was the only reason why I was going to Granada…

My first attempt at getting a ticket was a big fat epic fail. Every day I was in Granada they were sold out (ironically each day either side was available…). Nevertheless, I didn’t let this faulter me and I relentlessly continued to try and get a ticket, which I eventually did (woop).

If you find yourself in a similar debacle, here are a few hacks that can help you secure yourself a trip to The Alhambra.

You don’t actually need a general ticket to enter The Alhambra

I know! All this stress about getting a general ticket and you don’t actually need a ticket that covers all areas of the Alhambra to enter.

The complex is broken up into three main areas – Alcazaba, Generalife and Nasrid Palace and there are six different ticket options available to purchase. The general ticket that covers everything, including the Nasrid Palace, is the ticket type that sells out so quickly. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a ticket to see the Alcazaba, Generalife and the rest of the grounds.

The Nasrid Palace was beautiful but it was probably my least favourite area of the complex due to how busy it was, so don’t feel like you’re missing out too much if you can’t get a ticket to enter.

Likelihood is, if you check general tickets and there are none available, you’ll be able to get a different ticket that will still allow you to see the majority of The Alhambra. 

Re-check the website even if it says there’s no tickets available

If you’re desperate to visit the Nasrid Palace and there are no General tickets on the website when you first check, don’t panic – there is still a chance you could nab a ticket! When I first went on the website to buy my ticket it said they were all sold out. However, a day or two later I checked again and there was one time slot available, hallelujah. 

Check the website after midnight on the day you want to visit

This was a little tip our hostel (El Granado – definitely stay here if you’re looking for a hostel) gave their guests if they hadn’t managed to get a ticket.

From midnight, any cancelled tickets for that day will become available again for resale. Grab some late night sangria and tapas and have your phone at the ready to check the website at midnight.

The Alhambra is an intoxicating complex and a visit here is essential when you’re in Granada… if not Spain. I hope these tips will help you get a ticket and spare you the flap I had when I thought I wouldn’t be able to explore this architectural masterpiece on my trip.  

Aka. I needed an excuse to go on a trip where I could stay in hostels, meet new people and pretend I was a backpacker again whilst practicing my finest Spanglish. ‘Quiero dos tinto de verano por favor’…

My first stop was the stunning city of Seville where I walked so much I thought my feet might fall off.

The Andalucian capital is an intoxicating maze of cute hidden side streets, quaint tapas bars and grand intricate architecture, which leaves you wanting to explore more and more everytime you step out of the door (hence the minimum of 20,000 steps a day).

If you’re planning a trip to Seville, pack your walking boots and follow this jam packed itinerary!

Day 1

Buses run from the airport into the city centre regularly and can be found at the front of the arrivals terminal. It costs 4 euros and takes around 40 minutes to reach the final stop – Plaza de Armas.

Free walking tour

Start your first full day on a free walking tour.

As you may already know, I swear by free walking tours and book onto them in most cities I visit. They give you a great introduction to the culture and history of a city and help you get your bearings for the rest of your trip.

I booked onto the SANDEMANs New Europe walking tour, which lasted for 2 1/2 hours and covered the main sites of Seville. This tour starts at 10am, 11am and 7pm everyday from Plaza del Salvador and can be booked via their website. Although it is technically a free walking tour, tips are expected at the end (I’d say an average tip would be around £5-£20 per person).

The walking tour ends in Plaza de España so grab an ice cream or a cerveza to refuel and then get ready to mooch around this stunning complex.

Parque de Maria Luisa and Plaza de España

JUST LOOK AT THOSE TILES!!! Yes, I know I’m a serious old lady these days…

The Plaza de España is set within the peaceful grounds of Parque de Maria Luisa (well worth a wander).

The plaza was built in 1928 and is the epitome of the grand architecture you’d expect from Seville. Its intricate mosaic tiles, over-the-top bridges and idyllic water ways, are just a few of the details that make this plaza an architectural masterpiece. 

The plaza is free to explore and usually has a band and flamenco dancer performing somewhere in the shade. Walk around and soak up the beauty of the area and if you fancy hitting the water, you can rent a boat and row it around the Plaza. 

The Cathedral

If you still have enough energy, walk to the Cathedral (approx. 15 minutes from Plaza de España), which dominates the centre of Seville.

This cathedral is huge (the biggest in the world!) and in 1987 was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 14/1500s on the site of a grand Almohad Mosque to showcase the city’s power after the Christian Kings returned to power and is now seeped in centuries of history and culture in its blended architecture. 

Inside you can find Christopher Columbus’ tomb and a staggering 80 chapels and 15 doors to gawp at. If you’re feeling brave (and fit), power up the ramps to the top of The Giralda Tower where you’ll be greeted with incredible panoramic views across the city. It’s a mammoth complex and booking a ticket before visiting is advised to avoid queuing.

You can buy tickets online for €10, which includes entry to the Cathedral at an allotted time, the Church of El Salvador and Giralda or, pop into the Church of El Salvador when you arrive and buy your tickets there (the queue will be a lot more bearable than at the Cathedral).

Day 2

The Alcázar

If you do anything whilst you’re in Seville, it should be to visit the Alcázar! This outstanding complex is the most popular spot in the city so definitely needs to be booked in advance. On the website you can select what type of ticket you’d like (general entry is €12.50) as well as the time you’d like to visit.  

The Alcazar is the oldest royal palace still in use today in Europe and one of Seville’s three world heritage sites. Built originally in the 10th century and then rebuilt a few times from the Middle Ages until now, the Alcázar is a work of art symbolising centuries of Spain’s changing culture. You could spend hours exploring its many nooks, crannies and extensive gardens so ensure you put aside at least 2 hours to fully appreciate its splendour.

I would recommend visiting first thing in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.   

Lunch at El Rinconcillo

Woop, it’s lunch time! Located around the corner from the Metropol Parasol (see below), El Rinconcillo is an authentic tapas bar buzzing with hungry locals.

This is a very traditional tapas bar so expect to eat like the locals do – at the bar – where your waiter will scribble down your order in chalk on the bar in front of you! Charcuterie boards are carved in eye sight and their vast selection of wines ensures you can get the perfect accompaniment to whichever tapas you order. The espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas) was a personal favourite.

This tapas bar is a must if you want excellent, cheap food and drink in classic Sevillian surroundings.  

Metropol Parasol

Metropol Parasol is a whacky wooden structure in the centre of Seville. Completed in 2011, this modern building is a far cry from the rest of the ancient architecture in Seville however, it does boasts one of the best views in the city. For a very reasonable €3 entry fee you can go up and enjoy a panoramic view across Seville. Head up for sunset and sip an Aperol at the bar as the sun sinks behind the horizon. 

The perfect end to your second day…

Day 3

Triana

Today we’re heading across the bridge to the neighbourhood of Triana.

Triana is renowned for being the main flamenco region of Seville and was described to me by my walking tour guide as ‘the heart and soul of the city’. Therefore, a trip to the city would not be complete without exploring its colourful streets. 

Triana is a sleepy neighbourhood, which usually has the faint sound of flamenco music echoing through its streets. Wander around before stopping off for lunch at Las Golondrinas where your waiter is likely to choose a selection of tapas for you to try.

Flamenco

Spend your final night in Seville at a flamenco show!

Seville is where flamenco originated (although Granada will argue otherwise) and is an excellent spot to experience this intense, intoxicating and powerful dance.

There are a lot of flamenco shows to choose from in Seville. Some are solely created for tourists whilst others are a more local and authentic affair. I went to La Carboneria, which was a free, rustic experience with a great flamenco show (you’re expected to buy drinks; 2 euros for a glass of wine). There were a lot of tourists there but I felt like it was a good ‘in-between’ option and has 3 half hour shows at 9.30, 10.30 and 11.30 each night.

My walking tour guide recommended Los Dios in Triana as a good local show so if you have a chance, check that out. However, in true Spanish style the flamenco doesn’t start until 11pm.

So there it is, a hefty 3 day itinerary to Seville! If you have any questions about this itinerary or your trip to Seville, please get in touch.

Renowned for its gothic architecture, heartwarming food, elaborate Christmas Markets and some of the cheapest beer in Europe, Prague is the perfect place to visit for a cheap city getaway.

The week before Christmas, my sister and I flew to Prague and spent 3 days and 3 nights uncovering the best sights, food and drink the city has to offer. We stayed in a really cool (and BARGAIN) Air BnB located around a 15 minute tram ride from the Old Town centre and used trams and Uber to get around.

Here’s my 3 day itinerary with everything to see and do in Prague at Christmas time. 

Day 1

Free walking tour

Whenever I arrive in a new city, the first thing I like to do is to book onto a free walking tour.

These tours tend to be led by locals who know the city inside-out and are a great way to get a base understanding of the history, culture, religion and food of where you are. They always include key must-see spots in the city and are a fab way to get your bearings on your first day. Free walking tours are technically ‘free’ however, an optional donation is always greatly appreciated (and deserved) at the end of the tour.

In Prague, we booked onto a tour with Free Walking Tour Prague via their website. This company offers four different walking tours, which cover different areas of the city. We opted for the Old Town tour as we thought this would cover a good chunk of the places we wanted to visit during our stay. From the Powder Bridge and Old Town Square to the Jewish Quarter and Astronomical Clock, we ticked off a lot of sights in just 2 1/2 hours.

Finish your morning with a hearty local lunch at U Parlamentu (recommended by our tour guide) in prep for a chilly walk to Prague Castle.

Wander along Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is one of the most famous spots in Prague. Scattered with grand gothic statues, musicians and artists, this bridge connects Prague’s Old Town with Prague Castle. Try to avoid the bridge at the height of the day as it is bound to be swarming with excitable aka. annoying tourists.

Climb to Prague Castle

Prague Castle is situated a strenuous 10/15 minute walk uphill from Charles Bridge. Although the steep cobbled hill may be off-putting, there are plenty of cute cafes, restaurants and shops to stop off at on the way. When you reach the top, grab a mulled wine from the small Christmas Market and enjoy the smashing panoramic view across the city.

It is free to explore the castle’s grounds however, there is a charge to go into buildings such as, the cathedral. Liz and I made the executive (some may say wise) decision to spend our money on hot toddys and Czech snacks at the castle’s Christmas market instead.

Dinner at Wine O’Clock

Wine O’clock was recommended to me by a friend and on arrival, it was love at first sight. Bottles of my favourite Italian red wine lined the walls of the small rustic room, candles flickered on each inviting table and the menu was simple yet intriguing. The restaurant oozed relaxation and we instantly felt at home. 

This cosy wine bar prides itself on warm hospitality and slow dining and on sitting down, our waiter insisted on us ordering a couple of tapas style dishes over a few courses so we could enjoy the food as we mixed up our wine choices.

The food was simple, fresh and delicious. From burrata and bruschetta to baked goat’s cheese and tartiflette, all food was prepared in front of us and the other guests as if we were in someone’s home. As there is limited seating, I would highly recommend booking a table to avoid disappointment. 

Day 2

Christmas markets

Over the Christmas period, Prague is scattered with a wealth of enchanting Christmas markets. The most well-known market is located in the Old Town Square where twinkling chalets selling Czech snacks, mulled wine and souvenirs are complimented by the stunning Gothic architecture towering above. Locals will say this market is overpriced however, the beauty of the square at this time of year is worth the premium.

You can find other Christmas Markets outside the castle, by Namesti Miru tram stop (this is considered the local market) and Wenceslas Square. 

Beer tasting

Beer and Prague go hand in hand. Therefore, a trip to this city would not be complete without sampling some of the local brews.

If you’re interested in learning about the processes involved in making Czech beer then a visit to the beer museum would be worthwhile. Alternatively, find a local pub and order beer after beer until you find your favourite.

We went to a brewery come pub near the Old Square called U Tri Ruzi and came out feeling rather squiffy headed and more open to the idea of ale.

Cocktails at Black Angel’s bar

End your second day with a cocktail…

Black Angel’s is a prohibition themed bar that can be found just off of the Old Town Square. Located in an enclaved basement, Black Angel’s is quirky and unique and offers cool, eccentric cocktails inspired by 20th century bartending legend, Alois Krcha. Sip on a Yo Mama or a specially brewed absinthe whilst listening to the talented pianist of the night. Drinks here may be expensive for Prague but they are worth every penny for the experience. 

No photos are allowed inside the bar to upkeep their sense of mystery and secrecy.

Day 3

Breakfast at Café Jen

On our last morning in Prague we decided to check out this charming lil’ café located just around the corner from our Air BnB in Ruska. Light, airy and hip, Café Jen was everything we wanted from a hearty brekkie spot. We sipped on great coffee and prosecco, gorged on smashed avocado, melted brie and pomegranate seeds on toast and did our best to resist the delicious looking cakes on the counter.

No booking necessary, just turn up and enjoy! 

Walk to Vysehrad Fort

Our final adventure of our time in Prague was climbing to the Vysehrad Fort, which was recommended to us by our Free Walking Tour guide. Situated South of the Old Town Square, you can either walk along the waterfront to the fort or, hop on a tram. 

We were lucky enough that it had snowed on our last day, which made the trip a lot more festive but also, absolutely freezing and slippy…

Walk along the peaceful fort walls whilst appreciating the fab views across the city before warming up with a coffee or a mulled wine at the café by the cathedral. 

I absolutely loved visiting Prague at Christmas time. Every corner of the city was strewn in Christmas memorabilia and I can’t imagine a better place to get you in the festive spirit before Christmas Day. 

Renowned for its mountainous scenery, vibrant orange roofed houses, unique toboggan run and splendid Madeiran cake, wine and cuisine, this island has a lot to offer its visitors.

Although Madeira has been branded as a holiday destination for the ‘elder generation’, my trip with my family in early June confirmed that this unspoiled, quiet gem has a lot to offer any holidaymaker who enjoys a less touristy destination with phenomenal walking opportunities, quaint cobbled high streets and welcoming locals.

Here are my top reasons why you should book a holiday to Madeira this summer.

Scenery and views

Madeira is encompassed by rugged volcanic rims and towering cragged cliffs.

Whether you’re at the top of Funchal’s famous cable car in Monte, trekking the region’s dramatic levada, overlooking the ocean at the remarkable Cabo Girão skywalk viewpoint or, at your accommodation high up atop the mountains, you’re sure to be blessed with mind-blowing views of undisturbed sea by day and a moon beam to die for by night.

Food and drink

As well as traditional Portuguese food, Madeira also has its own branch of seductive cuisine.

For starter, bolo do caco (a traditional Madeiran bread) smothered in garlic butter can be found at the top of every menu. Whilst grilled limpets drizzled in garlic and lemon and served in a hot pan straight from the grill, are a favourite amongst locals.

For main, espetada aka. meat skewers doused in salt and garlic butter are extremely popular and fish – especially black scabbard fish – is traditionally served swimming in a sweet banana or passion fruit sauce. All Madeiran meals must be finished with a post dinner poncha and/or Madeiran wine.

Wildlife

Often referred to as ‘the floating garden’, Madeira is very well-known for its colourful species of flora and fauna as well as, its budding sea life.

Seabirds and Bottlenose and Atlantic spotted dolphins are a daily sighting off of the island whilst Sperm and Pilot whales can be spotted in the Atlantic waters all year round.

Lack of tourism

As you will probably know by now, I’m not a big fan of tourist-fuelled places. Therefore, Madeira was a breath of fresh air when I began my exploration.

It is authentic and quiet yet, offers so much to see and do. Its glittering turquoise waters, rustic narrow side streets, bustling, colourful markets and charming cafes and restaurants are just a few of the island’s unique and untouched selling points.

Madeira was the perfect spot for a getaway with my family. Whether you’re after a week-long relaxing holiday or, a weekend city break escape, Madeira is an excellent spot to do it!