1 month in Europe: the Alternative Tour

1. Ghent, Belgium

• Ghent is as beautiful as nearby Bruges, but has fewer tourists. Check out the St. Bavo Cathedral.

• The large student population means a lively evening is guaranteed in medieval Ghent.

• Art and music are everywhere during the Gentse Feesten, a spectacular 10-day festival held in July.
  

2. Rotterdam, the Netherlands

• Amsterdam's hip younger brother has a futuristic skyline that's unique in the Netherlands.

• Modern architecture landmarks include the Erasmus bridge and the Market Hall.

• The nightlife is truly excellent, with a variety of underground clubs and live music venues.

3. Leipzig, Germany

• Leipzig is one of Germany's coolest cities and its creative vibe has earned it the nickname New Berlin.

• Enjoy architectural variety and check out St. Nicholas Church, where Bach used to play the organ.

• Visit nearby Colditz Castle, a famous World War II prison that's been partly converted into a hostel.

4. Warsaw, Poland

• Warsaw is a city on the rise, with a rich art scene, some great cuisine and an undeniably cool vibe.

• Check out the Warsaw Uprising Museum to learn about the tragic near-obliteration of the city in 1944.

• In the up-and-coming Praga district, factories have been turned into clubs, restaurants and art galleries.

5. Budapest, Hungary

• Budapest is a city of great beauty, split in two by the Danube river. Visit Buda Castle for the best views of the city.

• Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of ruin bars, housed in abandoned buildings. Look for them in District 7.

• Had a long night in the bars? Head to the Széchenyi thermal baths for a day of swimming and relaxing.

6. Belgrade, Serbia

• Belgrade is gritty and rough around the edges, but also full of creativity and with an amazing nightlife.

• The floating river clubs are the place to go, whether you prefer live music or all-night techno.

• Visit Kalemegdan Park and watch the Danube and Sava rivers meet from the top of Belgrade Fortress.

7. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Sarajevo is known as the Jerusalem of Europe, a crossroads where East and West have met for centuries.

• Have a cup of Bosnian coffee at the historic Bascarsija bazaar, dating back to the early Ottoman empire.

• The city's greatest assets are its hospitable people. Let them tell you all about Sarajevo's fascinating history.

8. Zagreb, Croatia

• Zagreb is a lovely small capital with a youthful atmosphere and plenty of good bars and restaurants.

• Start your day by getting some fresh fruit at Dolac Market, a recognisable sea of red umbrellas.

• Visit the unique Museum of Broken Relationships - it'll make you laugh and cry at the same time.

9. Bologna, Italy

• Bologna is a city of great beauty, offering medieval churches, long porticoes and hidden canals.

• The University of Bologna is the crown jewel of this lively student city, dating back to the year 1088.

• Climb to the top of Asinelli Tower, the highest tower in Italy, for an amazing view of Bologna.

10. Lyon, France

• Lyon is the gastronomical capital of France, where great food and wine can be found in abundance.

• Culture and history are everywhere, from the ancient Roman theatre to the futuristic Musée de Confluence.

• Go to the top of Fourvière Hill for the best view of Lyon and to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.