O N
T H E
R O A D
Off the
beaten path:
The top 6 lesser-known
European capitals
By Elizabeth Brewster
SHUTTERSTOCK
W
hether you're planning
your first visit to Europe
or your 50th, it pays to
seek out the continental
capitals with sidewalks
that are less trod.
London, Paris and Rome are all wonderful destinations, of course, but lesserknown capital cities can offer many of
the same attractions with fewer hassles.
"They can be a lot less touristy
and crowded than some of the more
famous capital cities," says Cameron
Hewitt, guidebook writer and lead
editor for Rick Steves' guidebooks.
"It's easier to get around, and I find
in a town that's less well-known, local
people are more appreciative. They're
flattered you're taking an interest."
Even in a smaller country, says
Hewitt, the capital city is where it's at,
showcasing the nation's top cultural
institutions, palaces, national museums
and oftentimes a major university.
"It's a great way to be exposed to
different facets of a culture, and it's
very efficient to do that in a capital
city," says Hewitt.
Here are six capital cities that travel
experts say are well worth adding to
your European travel itinerary.
1. BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
Why go: Ornate architecture,
chocolate, Christmas markets
DonÕt miss: Grand Place, the city's
beautiful main square
2. COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Why go: Tivoli Gardens, smorgasbords, Hans Christian Andersen sites
DonÕt miss: Open-air canal boat
cruise to savor memorable architecture both old and new
3. LISBON, PORTUGAL
Why go: Hilltop vistas, fado music,
Moorish architecture
DonÕt miss: Traditional fishermen's
quarters known as the Alfama,
with steep, twisty lanes and
quaint buildings
4. LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA
Why go: Baroque buildings,
goulash, historic bridges
DonÕt miss: Lively outdoor cafes
lining the banks of the Ljubljanica
River in the heart of town
5. LUXEMBOURG CITY,
LUXEMBOURG
Why go: Dramatic river gorges,
old city walls, Gen. George Patton's
gravesite
DonÕt miss: Picturesque old town
and historic fortifications set in a
stunning natural environment
6. RIGA, LATVIA
Why go: Art Nouveau architecture,
2014 European Capital of Culture
city, Museum of the Occupation
of Latvia
DonÕt miss: Colorful Central Market
with its five pavilions in former
Zeppelin hangars •
w w w. s p i r i t o f w o m e n . c o m
FA L L 2 013
SPI RIT O F WOM EN
29