My Favourite 2 for 1 Destinations

If you’re someone like me who loves getting the most out of every destination, grab a cuppa and take notes! I’d be sharing how I make the most of ticking countries off my bucket list without breaking the bank or taking too much time off work.

First on my list…drumroll please

Budapest and Bratislava

You can make your Hungarian adventure even more memorable by adding a quick hop over to another captivating capital—Bratislava, Slovakia.

During my 3-day stay in Budapest, I decided to do just that. With Budapest’s excellent train connections to several nearby cities, it was the perfect opportunity to explore more without the hassle. Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is just over 2 hours away by train, making it an ideal day trip destination.

Catching the train from Budapest to Bratislava is straightforward and affordable. Trains depart from one of Budapest’s main railway station Nyugati, and the journey is smooth and scenic. For my trip, I grabbed return tickets right before departure, costing 25 Euros per person. However, I’d recommend booking your tickets in advance if possible to secure the best rates and guarantee your seat. You can easily do this on the official railway website here.

The train itself was surprisingly comfortable, with ample seating, charging stations, and even a small café car if you fancy a coffee or snack on the way. My previous post details how my day trip to Bratislava went. You can catch up here

One of my favourite travel experiences so far has been was a day trip from Nice, France, to Ventimiglia, Italy and here’s why. This duo perfectly combines the best of the French Riviera with a taste of Italian charm. From the stunning beaches of the South of France, to indulging in the glam of Cannes ,exploring the cultural richness of villages like Menton, and enjoying the high life in St. Tropez—all in one holiday. The cherry on top? Hopping on a train on a short train ride to another country, Italy.

Trains to Ventimiglia are easily accessible from any town along the South of France. The SNCF train line runs through all the key spots and straight into Ventimiglia, with tickets priced around £10 each way. If you’re thinking about renting a car, it’s a great option for exploring the best of the South of France. I did rent one for my trip, but when it came to visiting Ventimiglia, I decided to park the car and enjoy the train experience instead. There’s something uniquely relaxing about the scenic coastal ride, with the Mediterranean Sea by your side.

Historically, Ventimiglia has been an important settlement since ancient times, with roots that trace back to the Roman era. Today, it’s known for its vibrant weekly market, held every Friday, which attracts visitors from all over the region. Heads up, if you are not heading out there on a Friday—there isn’t a whole lot to do in Ventimiglia itself. It’s a quaint Italian town, perfect for a leisurely stroll and a gelato, but the real treat lies just a bus ride away in Sanremo. Hop on the local bus, and you’ll find yourself in this vibrant city known for its exotic shopping experience(the same trains from France actually go to Sanremo should be your travel preference). Be sure to visit the La Pigna district and the Sanremo Outlet Mall for a touch of luxury and some serious retail therapy.

So, if you’re planning a holiday in the South of France, don’t miss the chance to add a little Italian flair to your trip with a day in Ventimiglia and Sanremo. It’s the perfect way to experience two beautiful countries in one unforgettable journey.

Milan/Lake Come to Lugano Switzerland

This past August, I had the pleasure of taking an exotic 4-night holiday in Milan with my kids, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular. Milan, known for its fashion, history, and vibrant city life, served as our base for this trip. Its strategic location in northern Italy makes it an excellent hub for connecting to other beautiful destinations, including the stunning Lake Como and the charming city of Lugano, Switzerland.

Milan: The Perfect Base

Milan, the capital of Lombardy, is not just a fashion capital but also a fantastic gateway to the Swiss Alps and Northern Italy’s picturesque lakes. With its well-connected train network, Milan makes it easy to plan day trips to some of the most breathtaking locations in Europe. From Milano Centrale, the city’s main railway station, trains to Lake Como are frequent, affordable, and convenient.

Day Trip to Lake Como

Our day trip to Lake Como was undoubtedly the highlight of our holiday. Trains from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni station run regularly, with tickets priced around €5-10 each way. The journey is quick and comfortable, taking just over 30 minutes. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by the serene waters of Lake Como, surrounded by lush hills and charming villas. Lake Como is famous for its stunning scenery, and there’s so much to see and do—from boat tours to exploring quaint towns like Bellagio. Check out my top favorite things to do in Lake Como here.

After a day of soaking in the beauty of Lake Como, we hopped back on a train and headed to our next destination: Lugano, Switzerland.

Lugano: Swiss Charm with a Mediterranean Flair

Lugano, just an hour’s train ride from Como, offers a delightful blend of Swiss efficiency and Mediterranean warmth. The journey itself is a scenic one, with the train winding through beautiful landscapes as you cross the border into Switzerland. Lugano is known for its stunning lakeside views, upscale shops, and rich cultural heritage. The city is nestled in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, giving it a unique blend of Italian and Swiss influences.

We spent the night in Lugano, and our kids couldn’t wait to visit the famous Splash e Spa Tamaro, one of the best water parks in the region. It’s the perfect spot for families looking to add a bit of fun to their trip. Whether you’re interested in exploring the beautiful Parco Ciani, strolling along the lakeside promenade, or indulging in Swiss chocolate and Italian cuisine, Lugano has something for everyone.

While in Lugano, it’s important to be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on trains—common advice when traveling through popular tourist spots in Europe. But don’t let that deter you; the overall experience is well worth it.

Final Thoughts

This Milan-Lake Como-Lugano itinerary offered us the perfect mix of city life, nature, and cultural exploration. If you’re planning a family trip to Milan, don’t miss the chance to venture out to Lake Como and Lugano. These destinations are not only easily accessible but also provide unforgettable experiences that will leave you with memories to treasure.

So, next time you’re in Milan, why not take a day—or two—to explore the beauty of Lake Como and the charm of Lugano? It’s a journey well worth taking!