1 month in Europe: an alternative tour

1. Ghent, Belgium

• Don't miss St. Bavo Cathedral, filled with famous artwork such as the Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. 

• Ghent's large student population contributes to a lively atmosphere in the medieval centre. 

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

2. Rotterdam, the Netherlands

• Amsterdam's neighbour to the south has a futuristic skyline that's unique in the Netherlands.

• Modern architectural landmarks include the Erasmus Bridge and the Market Hall.

• Up for a concert? Rotterdam is home to dozens of live music venues.

3. Leipzig, Germany

• Leipzig has been called the "New Berlin" for years, due to its vast creative scene. 

• Enjoy the city's architectural variety and check out St. Nicholas Church, where Johann Sebastian Bach once played the organ.

• Visit the Spinnerei Art Centre, a former cotton spinning mill that is now home to more than 100 artists' studios. 

4. Warsaw, Poland

• Catch a live concert of composer Frédéric Chopin's music, performed daily in Warsaw's picturesqure Old Town.

• On a sunny day, take a stroll or enjoy a bike ride on the kilometres-long promenade along the Vistula river. 

• In Warsaw's Praga district, former factories have been transformed into restaurants, art galleries, and beyond. 

5. Budapest, Hungary

• Budapest is a visually striking city, split in two by the Danube River. Visit Buda Castle for some of the best views of the city.

• Bask in Baroque beauty (and sip a latte or two) at Budapest's famous coffee houses and cafes. 

• Pick up some groceries and souvenirs and sample local specialties with a visit to Budapest's Central Market Hall. 

6. Belgrade, Serbia

• Go for a stroll around Kalemegdan, a large park situated where the Danube and Sava rivers meet.

• Take in the view from atop the Belgrade Fortress, which has historical roots dating back to the Neolithic period. 

• Consider a day trip to Novi Sad (or another Serbian destination) by train. The journey from Belgrade to Novi Sad, included in the Pass, takes under an hour. 

7. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Begin with a cup of Bosnian coffee at the historic Bascarsij. Nearby, you'll find local artisans selling traditional copper and other souvenirs.  

• Ride the cable car up to Trebević and soak in a sweeping view of Sarajevo before taking a short hike on walking paths through the forest. 
• Take the train to Mostar, a picturesque city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. This train ride, included in the Pass, takes under 3 hours. 

8. Zagreb, Croatia

• Start your day by getting some fresh fruit at Dolac Market, a beautiful square famous for its red umbrellas used by vendors. 

• Visit the unique Museum of Broken Relationships and unpack the universal experiences of loss and heartbreak.
• After the museum, take a long walk around Zagreb's Upper Town. Don't miss the Church of St. Mark's colourful tiled roof.  

9. Bologna, Italy

• Travellers can lose themselves for days exploring Bologna's 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 the Clock Tower for a breathtaking view of Bologna. 

10. Lyon, France

• Lyon, home to more than 4,000 restaurants, is said to be the gastronomical capital of France. 

• Signs of the city's history and architectural variety are everywhere you turn, from the ancient Roman theatre to the futuristic Musée des Confluences.

• Visit the soaring Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of Lyon.