Don't get lost like me: Where is Warszawa Śródmieście Train station

During my visits to Poland, I searched on the internet, and it showed me a good connection to Eastern Poland. I didn’t pay attention to the name because I assumed there was only one main train station in Warsaw. My plan was to travel to Białowieża via Hajnówka.

Śródmieście Train station

Śródmieście Train Station

I arrived in Warsaw early in the morning and went to the Central Warsaw Train Station. The station was busy, and I tried to orient myself while figuring out how to buy a ticket from a ticket machine. Most of the machines didn’t work at all, but I managed to find one that was functional. However, when I selected my destination, I couldn’t find my final stop, which made me worry that I might miss my connection. I checked multiple machines, but the result was the same. I started thinking that the online links I had checked earlier were incorrect.

After many attempts, I found a ticket office and tried to buy a ticket there. Unfortunately, the lady working at the counter couldn’t understand the name of my destination. I showed her the name on my phone, and she explained that I was at the wrong station. She told me I needed to go to "Śródmieście Train Station."

I asked her where that was, and she pointed across the road.

I hurried out and, crossing the road, found the train station I needed—with only 15 minutes left before my train was scheduled to depart. That’s when I realized this was a completely different station, and its name translates to “Downtown.” This train station is much smaller and mainly connects Warsaw with nearby cities while making stops within the capital itself. It also had ticket machines and a functioning ticket office. I’ll show you its location on the map.

Oh, and there’s a robot there that can make you coffee! Have a safe ride!

They are next to the road

Robot hand making coffee

Hiking to Trebević: Sarajevo’s Favorite Mountain

If you’re considering a hike up Trebević Mountain, let me share some tips and my personal experience to help you plan your adventure. Trebević is the closest mountain to Sarajevo, making it an easily accessible spot for nature lovers. Known as a popular day trip destination, especially on weekends, don’t be surprised if you find yourself among many fellow hikers. The trail is moderately challenging, but even if you’re a beginner, it’s manageable as long as you wear sturdy hiking shoes.

Sarajevo from the Trebević

Sarajevo Views from Trebević Mountain

Trebević is one of Sarajevo's most beloved mountains. At the base, near the parking areas and the "Pino Nature Hotel," you'll likely encounter crowds, especially families with children, as many visitors prefer to drive or take the cable car up. This is particularly common during summer or when the city below is covered in fog.

Two Ways to Start Your Hike

You have two main options to reach the Trebević hiking trail:

1. By Foot: Walk to the starting point near the "Pino Nature Hotel." This route takes you through the suburban neighborhoods of Sarajevo, mostly on paved roads.
2. By Cable Car: Take the Sarajevo Cable Car, which drops you close to the trailhead near "Pino Nature Hotel." We opted for the cable car, and I’d recommend it for a more scenic and quicker start.

The cable car ticket costs 20 KM (around €10) for a round trip. To avoid crowds, aim to ride early in the morning. The ride lasts about 15 minutes, offering stunning views of Sarajevo. From the cable car station, you can follow a forest path or the road to the trailhead. The trails are well-marked, but if you’re unsure, feel free to ask locals. People are friendly and speak excellent English.

The Trek to Trebević Peak

From the starting point, the hike to Trebević peak takes about 3.5 hours. Along the way, you’ll find a water source roughly halfway up the trail, so bring a water bottle just in case. A cycling path also runs parallel to the hiking trail, adding to the lively atmosphere.

The way

Once you reach the peak, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. From here, you can see Bosnia’s famous mountains like Bjelašnica, Igman, Jahorina, and Romanija, as well as nearby towns like Pale. Also there is huge tower on the peak. Peak is belonging to Repulika Srpska entity.

A Cozy Stop at “Jure Franko” Cabin

Close to the peak, we visited the “Jure Franko” mountain cabin, a charming spot run by a Slovenian host. It’s an excellent place to unwind with affordable drinks and snacks. If you wish to extend your adventure, you can even spend the night here. The cabin offers incredible views of Sarajevo, especially at sunset.

North part is covered by forest

The Descent

The way back takes about 3.5 hours, similar to the hike up. If you plan to return via the cable car, make sure to check its schedule to avoid missing the last ride down.

Trebević just before sunset

Final Thoughts

Trebević Mountain is a must-visit for anyone in Sarajevo seeking a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural charm. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this experience offers a perfect escape into nature without venturing too far from the city.

So, lace up your hiking shoes, grab some water, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on Trebević!

I visited Sarajevo, here are my tips for you

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is one of those cities that stays with you long after you leave. Located in the heart of the Balkans, it’s full of charm, history, and breathtaking scenery. I’ve been there a few times, and I’m excited to share my tips and photos with you.

Hotel and towers

Getting to Sarajevo

Sarajevo is easy to reach from many Balkan and European cities. If you’re already in the Balkans, the cheapest way to get there is by bus from Belgrade, Zagreb, Split, or Skopje. Within Bosnia itself, every major city has buses heading to Sarajevo.

Sarajevo tiny streets

For those coming from further away, flights connect Sarajevo to most European capitals. However, there are no international train routes to the city. If you’re traveling from Western Europe, overnight buses (with companies like Centrotrans, Kantić, Halilović, or Globtour) are an affordable and convenient option.

Baščaršija

From the Airport to the City

Public transport is the best way to get from the airport to Sarajevo’s center. A short 10-minute walk takes you to the trolleybus stop at Dobrinja, where a ticket costs just 1.80 KM (around 0.90 EUR).

Miljacka River 

I’d recommend avoiding taxis—they often overcharge tourists. Sadly, there’s no Uber or Bolt available in the city.

Winter in Sarajevo

Sarajevo in winter is magical, even though it can be a bit foggy because of the mountains. The Christmas markets create a cozy, festive vibe, and there’s also ice skating to enjoy. For a snowy adventure, take the cable car to Trebević Mountain—it’s just a few minutes away and offers beautiful views and outdoor fun.

Chatedral Sarajevo

The city is built for winter living, with cozy shopping malls and easy access to the mountains for skiing or hiking.

Summer in Sarajevo

Summer here is vibrant and full of life. The famous Sarajevo Film Festival attracts visitors from all over the world and is a must-see event. If you need to cool off, you can visit an aqua park or head to the nearby mountains for fresh air and stunning views.

Bosnian Coffee - Dont miss it!

What to See in Sarajevo

Sarajevo is packed with history and culture, and you’ll find plenty to explore. Wandering through Baščaršija, the old bazaar, and seeing the Sebilj Fountain is like stepping back in time. The National Museum offers a deep dive into Bosnia’s history, and the city’s many war monuments tell stories from WWI and the Bosnian War.

Panorama from Skenderija

You can visit Vrelo Bosne in Ilidža, a beautiful park with natural springs, and iconic spots like Vijećnica (City Hall), Bijela and Žuta Tabija (fortresses with great views), and Vilsonovo Šetalište (a riverside promenade). Take some time to get lost in the steep, narrow streets—they’re full of character and offer stunning views of the city below.

Titova street

Is Sarajevo Expensive?

Sarajevo is one of the most affordable cities in Europe, especially when compared to other capitals. That said, prices are slowly rising with tourism, so it’s worth planning your budget in advance.

Stećak in front of the Parlament

My Thoughts on Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a city shaped by its history, blending cultures, religions, and traditions in a way that feels completely unique. For me, the hills and mountains surrounding the city were the highlight—peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for exploring.

Sarajevo steets, prepare your legs

If you’re looking for a city with charm, history, and nature all in one, Sarajevo is definitely worth a visit.

Alipašino polje, socialist blocks

Thessaloniki - Amazing City of History, Bible, Alexander the Great, Ataturk, and Aristotelus

Usually, I don’t write this much about the cities I visit, but I think this city deserves much more attention and words. It has left a deep imprint on my memory due to the overwhelming number of impressions it gave me and its unique vibe. The city is called Thessaloniki, also known as Solun or Salonica, depending on the language. Even this variety of names is interesting, showing the city’s significance to many countries and cultures. It has always been important as a hub, a place worthy of being named specifically in different languages. The name Thessaloniki comes from the sister of Alexander the Great, after whom the city was named. As a wedding gift, Alexander gave one of his generals the city because the general married his sister—a romantic and historical tale.

Alexander the Great Monument

One of my first impressions upon arriving in Thessaloniki was the sight of antennas and water boilers scattered across the rooftops of buildings. Almost all the buildings are painted in light colors, probably to reflect sunlight and reduce heat, which seems to have become a defining style. Thessaloniki is a city of uniformity, with no houses or skyscrapers—just rows of apartment buildings. Interestingly, many older structures, like churches or ancient buildings, are now below ground level. Over time, as the soil shifted and the city grew, these structures became partially buried.

View to Olmpic Mountains

Geographical Location: Thessaloniki is a Mediterranean city but lies further north than most Mediterranean cities, creating a mix of southern and northern influences. This gives it a semi-continental climate, influenced by its proximity to the Balkans. Greeks even have a word, barbáris, to describe the harsh northern winter. Snow in Thessaloniki is rare, but winter temperatures can dip to around zero degrees Celsius. In summer, however, the area becomes a hot tourist spot, especially the nearby Chalkidiki region, one of the most popular summer destinations in Greece and Europe. If you're flying into Thessaloniki, you can reach the city via bus 01X, with tickets costing €1.80. The starting point is conveniently located near the airport. If you're traveling by bus, it will drop you off near the train station.

People just chilling

History: Thessaloniki’s history is long and complex, capable of encompassing the history of ten countries in one city. It was a major city during the Roman, Greek, and Ottoman eras. Because of this, its population has shifted frequently and unpredictably, with events like population exchanges and the deportation of the Jewish community leaving lasting marks on its identity.

The region surrounding Thessaloniki is famous for its connection to Aristotle and Alexander the Great. Their legacy is still present in the city, reflected in its street names and landmarks, such as Aristotle Square and Aristotle University—the largest university in the Balkans.

Thessaloniki also has a distinct Balkan feel. You can hear cars driving around with loudspeakers, announcing the collection of old appliances or other items. It’s common to see vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables directly from the backs of their vehicles, adding to the city's lively streets.

Ataturk was born here, and there is birh museum of him, and it's connected now to Turkish consulate, ticket is free and you can go there almost every day. It's easy to go by walking.

Kemal Ataturk birth house

The port of Thessaloniki has played an essential role throughout its history and remains significant today. It connects to other Greek islands, and many cruises stop by the city each week.

Museums and Sites: If you plan to visit Thessaloniki, don’t miss its museums. I highly recommend the Archaeological Museum and the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius. These two figures were instrumental in shaping the written language for all Slavic people.

Thessaloniki is also known as a "Bible city." The Apostle Paul visited Thessaloniki, preaching on its city walls before being chased away. Some of these ancient walls are still visible in the upper part of the city, although the sea-facing walls have been destroyed. Also, from Thessaloniki it is possible to see Olympus Mountains.

Thessaloniki never sleeps. You can always find something open, whether it’s a place to grab a drink or just enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. The energy of Thessaloniki is contagious.

Lastly, I recommend checking out the cruise ship Arabella, which doubles as a floating museum. Don’t forget to browse through some pictures and enjoy the city's unique charm! Also, you can visit Halkidiki from here.

Thank you for reading, here is also picture from the Thessaloniki cat as award

This is Durrës and beaches - Albanian Sea City

Last summer, when we visited Albania, we spent some time in a beach city near Tirana. We arrived there straight from the airport, taking a mini-bus from the parking lot. It cost €6 (or the equivalent in Albanian leks), but the driver accepted euros as well. The ride to Durres took about 40 minutes, though it felt longer because the mini-bus didn’t have air conditioning. On the way, we enjoyed watching the scenery through the windows. The road connecting Tirana and Durres is lined with buildings, making the two places feel quite interconnected. The driver didn’t speak English, but it’s worth noting you can take a bus directly from the airport without going into Tirana.

Tirana Airport exit side

View on the road between Tirana and Durres

View of the road between Tirana and Durres

It was a very hot day when we arrived in Durres. The beaches are a few kilometers away from the city center, so we decided to take a walk around. The buildings in Durres reminded me of those in Greece, though they have a charming, less-organized vibe. Food in the city is relatively cheap compared to the beachside restaurants. For just a few euros, you can enjoy a meal in a decent, mid-range restaurant. The locals were incredibly friendly, helping us find our way to the bus station for the beach and pointing out interesting spots along the way.

City of Durres

How to get from Durres city to the beaches

If you want to visit the beach, there’s public transportation available, and it costs just 2 leks. We asked some locals where the bus station was, and they kindly guided us. The public buses are easy to use—we caught ours from the location marked on the map. You don’t need to buy a ticket in advance; someone will come around on the bus to sell them, but note that you can only pay in cash.

Crowded bus in Durres

Location of bus stop you can catch the beach

Durres is home to long, sandy beaches. Some are public, but others are private and belong to nearby resorts. Strangely, you can’t swim on the private beaches unless you’re a guest. If you want to move from one public beach to another, you’ll need to walk back to the main road before re-entering the beach. Durres isn’t as popular as some of Albania’s other coastal cities, so prices are lower here. However, be prepared—many places don’t accept card payments. There are plenty of food and drink options near the beaches, and the sunsets are truly stunning.

Empty beach

If you’re interested in history, don’t miss the amphitheater in Durres. It’s the largest in the Balkans, and entrance is free! It’s close to the city center and easily accessible on foot.

Amphitheater in Durres 

This is Tirana - Capital of Albania

Last summer, I had the pleasure of exploring Albania, a country that surprised me with its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and incredible food. My journey took me from the picturesque north to the sun-soaked south, with a special focus on the beautiful beaches and, of course, the amazing culinary experiences. Toward the end of my trip, I spent a few days in the bustling capital city, Tirana, and it left me with plenty of impressions to share. Here's a glimpse of my time there, complete with tips, insights, and a few photos!

First Impressions of Tirana's Infrastructure

Tirana is a city on the move—literally and figuratively. As Albania’s capital, it’s rapidly developing, with construction sites and towering skyscrapers popping up all around. Locals often joke about how quickly the skyline is changing, and you can feel the energy of a city racing toward modernization.

Getting to Tirana is relatively easy, with the main airport (Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza) located about 40 minutes away by bus. The airport is conveniently positioned between Tirana and Durrës, making public transportation an option if you're on a budget. That said, be prepared for a bit of chaos on the roads—traffic can be unpredictable, and Albanian drivers have a reputation for being, let’s say, enthusiastic. If you’re planning to drive, stay alert and cautious.

Staying in Tirana: A Budget-Friendly City

We took 10e hosteli n the heart of Tirana's Old Town. It wasn’t fancy, but its central location made it perfect for exploring the city on foot. From there, we could easily access some of the city's most famous landmarks and hidden gems. If you're visiting Tirana, staying close to the center is a great way to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere without breaking the bank.

Tourists in Tirana: A Hidden Gem for Explorers

Unlike Albania’s famed coastal destinations like Durrës, Ksamil, or Sarandë, Tirana isn’t flooded with tourists. This gives it a unique charm—you can explore without the crowds and get a more authentic feel for the local culture. While English isn’t widely spoken across Albania, we found that most people in Tirana, especially younger generations, spoke English quite well, making it easy to navigate and connect with locals.

During our time in Tirana, we checked out a few spots:

The Pyramid of Tirana: Originally built as a museum dedicated to the former dictator Enver Hoxha, this quirky structure is now a cultural landmark. Though a bit rundown, it’s an intriguing piece of architecture with a fascinating history. Locals and visitors alike often climb it for fun—and for the views!

Skanderbeg Square: The heart of Tirana, this massive square is a vibrant mix of history and modernity. Named after Albania’s national hero, the square is surrounded by key landmarks like the National History Museum, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Opera House. It’s the perfect place to start your exploration.

Blloku District: Once an exclusive area reserved for government elites during the communist era, Blloku is now Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood. It’s packed with cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it a great spot to unwind and people-watch.

My Takeaway from Tirana

Tirana isn’t just a stopover; it’s a destination that deserves its own time in the spotlight. The mix of history, culture, and fast-paced development gives the city a dynamic vibe that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re wandering through Skanderbeg Square, sampling Albanian dishes like burek or tavë kosi, or simply soaking up the local energy, Tirana is full of surprises.

If you’re planning a trip to Albania, don’t skip this vibrant capital—it might just become one of your favorite parts of the journey. Stay tuned for more stories and snapshots from my adventure!

Tirana from the "Pyramid"

Building in the Tirana

Skenderbeg sqare

Another building in Tirana

Read more albanian stories

Finding Refreshment in Mostar: Where to Swim During the Summer Heat

During my visit to Mostar in late July, the Herzegovinian summer was in full swing, with scorching temperatures that made me crave a refreshing escape. Naturally, I started exploring the best places to cool off, and Mostar offers a few excellent options for a swim.

Welcome to Mostar

Swimming Under the Old Bridge

One iconic but less conventional option is taking a dip in the Neretva River right under the famous Old Bridge (Stari Most). While this isn’t a common choice for locals, it’s an adventurous way to beat the heat and enjoy a unique experience.

Important Tips:

• Be cautious of the locals or professionals diving off the bridge. Make sure you’re in a safe spot to avoid any accidents.
• The water in the Neretva is extremely cold, even during the hottest summer days, so prepare for an intense temperature shock.
• The river’s current is very strong, so it’s essential to stay close to the banks and exercise caution.

Local Pool – A Popular Spot for Everyone

If you’re looking for a safer and more relaxing option, visit the local swimming pool, known as "blabla" (insert real name if available). This spot is highly recommended by locals and provides a clean, comfortable place to enjoy the water.

Why Choose the Local Pool?

• The pool features some of the cleanest water I’ve experienced, as it’s sourced directly from a nearby river and the local water system.
• The water is refreshingly cold, making it a perfect escape from the summer heat.
• The area is well-equipped with amenities like ice cream shops, cafes, and restaurants, so you can enjoy a full day of relaxation.

Final Thoughts

Mostar is a beautiful city that comes alive in the summer, but the heat can be intense. Whether you’re swimming in the historic Neretva River or enjoying a day at the local pool, there are plenty of ways to stay cool and make the most of your visit.

Wherever you choose to swim, take the necessary precautions, and most importantly, enjoy your time in this stunning city!

Kraków: The City That Survived Wars beacuse it's to beatiful to be destroyed

When I visited Kraków in early summer, the city was just waking up to the tourist season. It was the ideal time to explore this vibrant and beautiful destination, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices. We stayed in a cozy 2-star hotel near the Old Town, making it easy to soak in the city’s charm.

Why Kraków is Fascinating

Kraków is a city rich in history and culture. Once the capital of Poland before Warsaw, it played a crucial role in shaping the country's heritage. This legacy is reflected in its stunning architecture, historic sites, and vibrant atmosphere.

Despite the ravages of war across Europe, Kraków was spared much of the destruction during World War II. Many believe its extraordinary beauty and historical significance helped it avoid being bombed or subjected to street battles.

How to Get to Kraków

Kraków is well-connected to the rest of Poland and beyond. Whether you prefer traveling by train, bus, or car, getting to the city is straightforward. For international visitors, Kraków has its own airport with flights from major cities.

I personally arrived by train from Gdańsk, enjoying Poland’s efficient railway system. The city is also easily accessible from nearby capitals like Budapest and Vienna, thanks to frequent connections.

Polish train stations are more than just transit hubs—they’re bustling centers with shops, restaurants, and cafes. This makes traveling by train in Poland a convenient and enjoyable experience.

Exploring Kraków’s Old Town

After arriving at the train station, it was a short and easy walk to the Old Town. The first sight that greeted us was the iconic horse-drawn carriages, their white accents and elegant riders adding a fairytale touch to the streets. Taking a carriage ride is one of Kraków’s most popular attractions.

We started our adventure with a coffee before heading to the Town Hall Tower Museum, located in the heart of the Main Square. The panoramic view from the top was breathtaking, offering a sweeping perspective of the historic center.

A Visit to Wawel Castle

One of Kraków’s most famous landmarks is Wawel Castle, a stunning hilltop fortress overlooking the Vistula River. Once the residence of Polish kings and aristocracy, the castle boasts a collection of beautiful buildings and a rich history.

The site is also tied to modern history—Oskar Schindler’s office during the war was located here. Exploring Wawel Castle is like stepping back in time, and the surrounding river adds a natural layer of beauty and serenity.

Cruising the Vistula River

The Vistula River offers another way to experience Kraków. Ferries and cruises are available at affordable prices, with options for larger boats featuring live music and drinks. Walking along the riverbanks is equally enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities to stop and snap photos of the scenic views.

Kraków’s Green Spaces and Nightlife

Kraków is a city of green spaces, including the Planty Park, a lush ring of greenery encircling the Old Town. This area used to be the city’s defensive walls, which were replaced by gardens after their removal.

When the sun sets, Kraków comes alive with vibrant nightlife. The city’s youthful energy, driven by its many students, fills its bars, pubs, and clubs.

A Timeless City That Survived the Wars

Kraków’s beauty isn’t just skin deep—it’s a city with a soul, untouched by the destruction of wars that ravaged other parts of Europe. Its historical charm, cultural richness, and resilience make it a must-visit destination.

After our wonderful time in Kraków, we spent the following day on a deeply reflective visit to Auschwitz. This emotional journey added another layer of meaning to our trip, contrasting the beauty of Kraków with the somber lessons of history.

Next day we visited Auschwitz - Darkest Place in Europe

I visited Auschwitz - Darkest Place in Europe

Last spring, I had the opportunity to visit Auschwitz, and I want to share my impressions, along with some photos from the museum. Auschwitz is one of the darkest chapters in European history, a place where millions of people lost their lives in unimaginably brutal ways. Today, it stands as a museum that continues to tell these harrowing stories, reminding us of the atrocities of the Holocaust.

How to Get to Auschwitz

Getting to Auschwitz from Kraków is fairly straightforward, as Kraków is the closest major city. The site is located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of Kraków. There are several transportation options, including buses, trains, and organized tours.

Since we were a small group, we opted for a van service, which was more convenient and comfortable. You can easily book these services from Kraków.

Tickets and Entry

Before you go, it’s essential to book your tickets online in advance. Entry to Auschwitz is free, but you must register beforehand. Once registered, you’ll receive your ticket via email, which will include your name and a unique number.

The Tour Experience

The tour lasts approximately three hours, and it’s crucial to arrive on time. Guided tours are organized in specific time slots every 30 minutes. Individual visits without a guide are not allowed, and removing anything from the site is strictly forbidden.

The entire visit is conducted in a somber, respectful atmosphere. Even the guides speak in hushed tones, reflecting the gravity of the place.

What to Expect

Walking through Auschwitz is an emotional and deeply unsettling experience. The atmosphere is heavy and reflective, as it should be. You’ll see remnants of the horrors that occurred here, and each exhibit is designed to educate visitors rather than to cater to tourists.

This is not a place for casual sightseeing. It is a powerful, educational visit meant to honor the victims and ensure that the lessons of history are never forgotten.

Final Thoughts

If you decide to visit Auschwitz, do so with respect and a willingness to learn. It’s not a "tourist attraction" but a somber reminder of humanity’s darkest moments. Take the time to reflect and pay tribute to the countless victims of the Holocaust.

Real Replicas of Leonardo Da Vinci Inventions and Works

During my visit to Italiy, I was lucky to find a museum about Da Vinci inventions. It was moving museum and in that day it was in Venice. My impressions about Da Viunci are that we was some extraordinary human beeing, if he even was a human. His works, paitnigns, inveitions shaped history untill today day. Please check out the pictures.

The Last Supper

Lamp: In the french period Leonardo has designed this lamp, could be used also as fountain

Press drawing

The Chain

Ball bearings