Morava, Mikulov

The town of Mikulov is located in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, very close to the Austrian border (the Czech-Austrian border is just 6 km away, and many visitors take day trips between both countries.), and it is famous for its wine production, especially Palava wine. Another popular white varieties include Riesling, Gruner Veltliner and Sauvignon Blanc.

I am going to stay here only for one night, and of course I am going to taste local wine. And my hotel is quite unique, with the view to another sight of the city, the Castle. But unfortunately, it is about 30 minutes walking to the city centre.

Mikulov is a hidden gem of South Moravia, where cobblestone streets, Baroque facades, and Renaissance charm create a fairy-tale atmosphere. The town has only 7500 residents, but not surprisingly each year it is being visited by 150000 tourists. 

And of course during a day I could not miss enjoying here the best wine produced in the whole Czech Republic. And it was only white wine, because the local growing conditions are particularly ideal for white grape varieties - hot summers and cold winters. Even when reds are produced, the local style tends to be lighter and fruitier. The region’s reds are generally more refreshing and approachable rather than the rich, heavy reds often associated with warmer climates.

Mikulov Castle, the town's dominant landmark, was rebuilt in 1719 after a fire and today houses the largest wine barrel in Central Europe, holding 101400 liters of wine.

The castle has a rich history spanning over 800 years and has undergone multiple transformations, from a medieval fortress to a Renaissance residence and later a grand Baroque palace. Interestingly, parts of the castle foundation are carved directly into the rock, making it an architectural masterpiece of its time.

Mikulov is one of those rare places that feels like a quiet secret, waiting to be discovered again and again. And this landscape around, with its vineyards and rolling hills, creates a peaceful rhythm that seeps into your soul. I would love to visit this area once again, and probably in September, when the famous Palava Wine Festival (Palavske vinobrani) takes place.

Morava, Olomouc

Moravia is the eastern part of the Czech Republic, known for its rolling hills, historic towns, and warm hospitality. It was once part of Great Moravia, one of the first Slavic states, which capital was Olomouc, a very important city, where Czech kings were crowned and where Napoleon stayed before the Battle of Austerlitz, one of his biggest victories. So, I am going to visit this important city for a weekend.

Nowadays Olomouc has a population of around 100000 people, making it the 6th largest city in the Czech Republic. Despite being a regional hub, it has a small-town feel compared to larger cities like Prague or Brno. The city is home to a large student population, thanks to the Palacky University in Olomouc, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, which gives the city a vibrant, youthful energy.

My hotel is located in the very city centre. With this wooden ceiling and short bed I felt as a knight from the medieval times.

So, after the fast check-in I immediately went to see the historical part of the city.

Interestingly, Olomouc has two main squares. Horni namesti (Upper Square) is the city’s lively heart, which is the second-largest historic square in the country, right after Prague. And Dolni namesti (Lower Square), which lies just a short walk south of the Upper Square.

The number one attraction on the main square is The Holy Trinity Column, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This Baroque masterpiece is the tallest of its kind in the country. It was built to commemorate the end of a plague in the 18th century and is adorned with sculptures of saints, angels, and religious figures.

On the main square you also can find a unique 600-year-old astronomical clock, once redesigned to match communist ideals, replacing the saints with the factory workers.

Of course, I could not miss tasting the local delicatessen, which is Olomoucke tvaruzky, quite specific smelly cheese. Honestly, it has a very salty and unusual taste to me, so the only way I could eat it was with the beer.

At the evening I visited Svaty Kopecek (Saint Hill), a hilltop near Olomouc, known for its stunning Church of Saint Wenceslas. The Baroque pilgrimage church was built in the 17th century and features beautiful frescoes, altars, and impressive statues.

It’s a popular destination for both religious visitors and nature lovers, with peaceful walking paths and gardens around the church.

And this location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Olomouc itself. Ideal place for drinking wine on the stairs and admiring the sunset!

Olomouc feels like a place stuck in time. Stunning Baroque architecture, cozy medieval streets, beautiful parks, relaxed atmosphere and great nature around. It’s a city that makes you want to slow down and enjoy its hidden spots. But tomorrow I am moving to another small city in Morava.

Milan, To See

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an elegant 19th-century shopping arcade, opened in 1867. It's one of the oldest malls in the world and was designed by the architect Giuseppe Mengoni.

The gallery’s architecture is absolutely stunning: four arched entrances, a mosaic floor featuring the coat of arms of Italy, and a glass dome at the top. The building's design combines elements of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-Classical styles.

Known for its luxury shops, the gallery hosts high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, as well as historical cafes, such as Caffe Biffi and Caffe Camparino. 

After enjoying the beautiful architecture of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, I headed to another famous spot to enjoy the visual art.

The Pinacoteca di Brera was founded in 1806 by Napoleon Bonaparte to house Italy’s most significant collection of art. The museum is part of the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, and its collection spans from the Renaissance to the modern era.

The gallery is home to some of Italy’s finest masterpieces, including works by famous artists such as: Caravaggio (with his masterpiece Supper at Emmaus), Raphael (with his iconic The Marriage of the Virgin). Piero della Francesca, Mantegna, Tintoretto, and El Greco also have works featured here.

The museum is housed in a beautiful Palazzo di Brera, with high ceilings, grand halls, and spacious rooms that enhance the viewing experience. It also has a magnificent courtyard with lush gardens, providing a peaceful spot for visitors to relax.

Visiting the Pinacoteca di Brera was a truly emotional experience. The amazing artwork made me feel inspired and amazed, leaving me with a deep appreciation for Milan’s rich artistic history. As I left the gallery, I wandered the streets of Milan, feeling more connected to the city's art and culture, with each step revealing new layers of its beauty.

It was a very busy trip to Milan. And I loved it. Because Milan is a city that blends history, fashion, and modernity in the most exciting way.

From the stunning Duomo with enormous historical heritage to the chic streets lined with luxury boutiques, there is always something new to discover. The vibrant food culture, rich art scene, and mix of classic charm and innovative design make me eager to return. Every time I visit it, I find fresh surprises that draw me back for more.