London, Brussels, Paris, Barcelona: An adventure to remember
Story and photos by Teresa Zwierzchowski
In the very early days of 2020, when the world ground to a halt for COVID-19, my family and I did as many others do in times of stress: dream up places we could travel once things lifted. Hours were wasted talking about where we would go once the world opened again. This idle daydream took flight, and we soon had a plan: Let’s tour Europe when our daughter graduated in 2024. Four years of planning, tweaking and booking — followed by four months of airfare deal scouting, Meetup lurking, networking, interview prep, packing gear — we were finally bags-packed on our way to London, Brussels, Paris and Barcelona for two solid weeks.
FIRST STOP:
LONDON, UK (five days)
London, with its rich historical roots and vibrant modern culture, set the perfect tone for our European adventure. From our Airbnb, which boasted a stunning view of the Tower of London, we were constantly reminded of the city’s storied past.
Each day unfolded with a mix of iconic landmarks and lively neighborhoods. We marveled at Buckingham Palace, where Changing the Guard was truly a site to see. We saw Big Ben, took a stroll on London Bridge and took in the energy and all that Piccadilly Circus had to offer. We also strolled over to Carnaby Street, a pedestrian shopping haven in Soho, right in the heart of Central London. Carnaby was packed with fashion and lifestyle shops, including plenty of quirky independent boutiques that had us oohing and ahhing over items we just don’t see in the U.S.
London’s mix of old-world charm and modern flair kept us entertained the entire time in this city that never seems to sleep.
Highlights
Mad Hatter’s Tea at Sanderson London: For us, this whimsical tea was a must — especially considering our daughter played the role of the Mad Hatter in the Gulf Breeze High School production of “Alice By Heart” during her senior year. Teatime had us feeling as if we had tumbled down the rabbit hole, with teapots adorned with kings and queens and other Alice in Wonderland characters, along with delightful treats that looked as if they had sprung from the pages of Lewis Carroll’s book. The “drink me” potion bottles and quirky menu items had us loving the creativity.
Borough Market: Our visit to Borough Market was an absolute assault on our senses in every amazing way possible. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread, while stalls offered a tempting array of cheeses to sample and purchase. We were drawn in by the pastry vendors, the lively drink stalls, and the sizzling street food, all of which contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. We also could not pass up the chance to try the viral strawberries covered in rich Belgian chocolate — an indulgence that lived up to the social media hype and certainly did not disappoint.
Natural History Museum: My daughter’s love for all things prehistoric led us to this magnificent museum. The vast collection of dinosaur skeletons, interactive exhibits and informative displays kept us engaged for hours, not to mention the architecture, reminiscent of a cathedral, which made the perfect backdrop for several Instagram-worthy photos.
The Clink Prison Museum: This off-the-wall, out-of-the-way little museum was a fascinating dive into London’s darker history, providing a glimpse into medieval prison life. The exhibits were interactive and informative, making it a fun, quirky stop.
Don’t Miss
Mamma Mia! The Party: This interactive dinner theater experience was the perfect ending to our time in London. We found ourselves transported to the Greek island of Mykonos, singing along to classic hits and enjoying delicious Mediterranean food. The performers were so engaging that by the end of the night, we were all up and dancing, our inhibitions forgotten. Definitely splurge and get seats on the main floor — being in the middle of it all made for a truly amazing experience.
Circolo Popolare: With its fun atmosphere and mouth-watering Italian dishes, this restaurant was a hit. The decor is eclectic, with walls covered in thousands of bottles and twinkling lights, creating an enchanting dining experience. The truffle pasta and giant pizzas were absolute standouts. Be sure to make reservations well in advance! This place gets busy and often has no availability.
SECOND STOP:
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
(one full day, one half day)
Arriving in Brussels via train on a crisp Friday afternoon, we found ourselves immediately enchanted by the city’s captivating blend of modernity and history. The weather was cooler than anticipated, which made our first stop in the fashion district a necessity. We meandered through chic boutiques and high-end stores for some impromptu shopping while soaking in the city’s vibrant energy.
As the afternoon sun dipped lower, we made our way to the Grand Place, Brussels’ stunning central square. The ornate guildhalls and opulent architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site created a breathtaking backdrop for our explorations.
Brussels is a city of striking contrasts, where sleek European Union buildings stand in harmonious juxtaposition with cobblestone streets and charming old-world architecture. We loved wandering through its various neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary vibrancy. From the picturesque streets lined with medieval buildings to modern, bustling areas, Brussels offered a diverse tapestry of experiences that captured our hearts.
Highlights
Hungry Mary’s Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour: This tour was a delightful mix of indulgence and education. We visited seven different chocolate shops and sampled five beers, all while learning about the city’s rich history and iconic Manneken Pis statue. Our guide was not only entertaining but extremely knowledgeable, turning what could have been a dry history lesson into an engaging adventure that even a teen could enjoy!
Elisabeth Chocolatier: This independent boutique in Brussels had some of the most amazing chocolate we’ve ever tasted. We highly recommend the whiskey pearls, which blended rich chocolate with a shot of whiskey for a truly decadent treat.
Maison Dandoy Waffles: These waffles were crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with a variety of delicious options. They lived up to every bit of the hype, especially when enjoyed fresh and warm.
The Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert: Strolling through these elegant, glass-roofed arcades was like stepping back in time. We enjoyed window-shopping at the high-end boutiques and indulging in pastries from the renowned patisseries.
Don’t Miss
Grand Place: In the heart of Brussels, this stunning square is surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the towering Town Hall. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the historic atmosphere.
Manneken Pis: While small, this famous statue of a peeing boy is a quintessential Brussels sight. Be sure to stop by the little museum that features all the costumes they use to dress up Manneken Pis.
THIRD STOP:
PARIS, FRANCE (four days)
Paris, the city of love and lights, captivated us with its timeless allure. From the moment we arrived, the city exuded an irresistible charm. We began our visit with a serene cruise down the Seine River, the setting sun casting a golden glow over Paris’s iconic landmarks. The gentle flow of the river provided a unique vantage point, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of the cityscape as we glided past historic bridges and grand buildings.
Despite the ongoing preparations for the Olympics, which saw some areas walled off, Paris remained as enchanting as ever. The newly placed Olympic Rings on the Eiffel Tower added a touch of excitement to the city’s atmosphere.
Paris’s café culture provided the perfect backdrop for leisurely afternoons sipping cocktails, people-watching and soaking in the city’s vibrant energy. To say we fell in love with the city of love would be an understatement, and we already want to go back.
Highlights
Eiffel Tower: We ascended to the top at sunset, a breathtaking experience that culminated in seeing the tower sparkle against the night sky. The views from the top were nothing short of spectacular, offering a panoramic view of the Parisian skyline. Pro tip: Buy your tickets in advance to avoid having to walk the stairs to the top of the tower.
Seine River Cruise: An affordable and relaxing way to see the city’s sights and learn a bit of history. Sunset cruises are particularly magical.
The Louvre: We highly recommend splurging on a semi-private tour of the Louvre. Our tour guide was able to easily navigate the crowds and get us to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the French Crown Jewels with ease. Our guide’s insights not only educated us about some of the greatest works of art, but his knowledge of the Louvre’s layout also made what could have been an overwhelming experience extremely enjoyable.
Catacombs: An eerie yet fascinating journey through Paris’s underground ossuaries, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past. Walking through the labyrinth of bones was a sobering reminder of the city’s history and its enduring spirit.
Don’t Miss
Rue de l’Université and Rue de Buenos Aires: These streets offer some of the best photo spots of the Eiffel Tower. The perspective from Rue de l’Université, in particular, frames the tower beautifully against the backdrop of Parisian buildings.
Angelina Tea Room: Known for its viral hot chocolate and scrumptious desserts, Angelina did not disappoint. The rich, thick, velvety hot chocolate was like drinking melted high-end chocolate bars that you could top with softest, most luxurious whipped cream. It was amazing. Pro tip: Angelina’s has a couple locations in Paris, and we went to the one located at 226 Rue de Rivoli. The interior was gorgeous, and we were told it was designed by French architect Edouard-Jean Niermans.
FOURTH STOP:
BARCELONA, SPAIN (five days)
Our final stop was Barcelona, a city that holds a special place in my heart due to my paternal family’s immigration from Spain to the U.S. The city’s vibrant energy and rich cultural tapestry made it the perfect end to our European adventure.
Barcelona seamlessly blends history and modernity, from the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Gothic Quarter to the stunning modernist architecture of Antoni Gaudí. The Mediterranean climate, with its warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings, set the perfect backdrop for our exploration. A standout feature of our stay was the city’s culinary scene, particularly its tapas and leisurely dining culture.
Meals in Barcelona are meant to be savored rather than rushed. We fully embraced the tapas tradition, enjoying a variety of small, flavorful dishes as a snack during the day before heading to a long, relaxed leisurely dinner. This relaxed approach to dining allowed us to immerse ourselves in the local culture, making each meal a joyful occasion to unwind, chat, and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. In Barcelona, dining is more than just a meal; it’s a key part of the cultural experience.
Highlights
Mediterranean Sailboat Tour: One of the most magical experiences of our trip was the private sailboat tour along the Mediterranean coast. We set sail on a beautiful day, the sun sparkling on the azure waters, and enjoyed breathtaking views of Barcelona’s coastline. We did find the temperature of the Mediterranean a little cooler than the bathwater temps of the Gulf of Mexico — forcing us to cut our time swimming short! As we sailed, we even caught sight of the American Magic sailing team. As those in the know know, the New York Yacht Club American Magic is the U.S. Challenger for the 36th America’s Cup. In recent years, the team has used the Port of Pensacola as its winter training base.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: This tour was an excellent way to cover the city’s major attractions and learn about their history at our own pace. We hopped off at landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, marveling at Gaudí’s unique architectural style that can be seen throughout the city.
Bodega la Peninsular: For traditional paella, this restaurant is a must-visit — just be sure to call 24 hours ahead of your visit to order the paella and to ensure it is fresh and available. I promise it is worth it. The flavors were rich and authentic, making it one of the best meals of our trip. The casual, friendly atmosphere added to the charm.
Don’t Miss
Sagrada Familia: Although we couldn’t go inside due to high demand and not knowing we needed to get tickets in advance, the exterior alone was mesmerizing. The intricate details and grandeur of Gaudí’s masterpiece left us in awe.
Park Güell: A testament to Gaudí’s genius, this park offers stunning views of the city and whimsical architectural features. The vibrant mosaics and organic shapes create a dreamlike atmosphere. Again, be sure to get your tickets in advance if you want to go inside the park.
Our European adventure was everything we had dreamed of and more. Each city offered its own unique experiences and memories, from dancing in London to savoring chocolate in Brussels, exploring art in Paris and reconnecting with heritage in Barcelona. It was a trip that not only celebrated my daughter’s graduation but also brought our family closer together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
For anyone looking to embark on a journey through Europe, these cities offer a blend of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences that make every trip truly worth it.
