14.07.2025 Italy

(Canon EOS R6 Mark II with Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM)

This summer, the vacation headed south. After a first stop in Kehl on the Rhine, it was just a short bike ride across the bicycle/pedestrian bridge over the river into the French city of Strasbourg. The contrast couldn’t be greater: Strasbourg, with its medieval charm and beautiful old buildings throughout the city center, versus Kehl on the opposite bank, built more functionally and radiating a 1960s vibe.
From there, the journey continued straight through Switzerland to the small town of Cannobio on the Italian side of Lake Maggiore. Quietly situated, it was ideal for peaceful walks and swimming. Next, the route led further down to Rapallo on the Riviera. Thanks to its location, it was perfect for excursions to nearby Genoa, as well as the charming towns of Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, surrounded by other impressive buildings, was the next destination. The city itself and the slightly remote beach in Marina di Pisa also invited visitors to linger.
Florence, however, was a bit of a disappointment. While the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the surrounding basilicas were quite impressive, and the medieval city center with its narrow alleys promised excitement, the city as a whole didn’t truly captivate me. Too dull and sober to justify staying more than a day. So the travel plan was quickly adjusted, and Lake Garda was added. In the small town of Peschiera del Garda, one could enjoy lakeside walks and even take a trip to nearby Verona. There, the impressive Arena di Verona offered a grand stage for opera performances in the summer—though not as large as the Roman Colosseum, it was still quite imposing. The old town itself had such incredible charm that every moment revealed something new and exciting.
The journey then slowly turned back toward home with a stop in South Tyrol. Initially, the plan was to stay in Bolzano, but the final accommodation was found in Terlan, a few kilometers further north. The area is dominated by fruit cultivation, which is evident in the stunning views from the surrounding mountains. Wherever you look in the valleys: orchards. Still, for those who enjoy cycling and hiking in beautiful surroundings, this is the perfect spot. Sadly, even the most beautiful vacation must come to an end, and so I had to make my way home. Since the route was too long for a single leg, Austria was only briefly crossed before making a short stop in Neu-Ulm. The charming old town of Ulm is definitely worth a visit, and I had planned to see the impressive Ulm Minster (the tallest church in the world), but that was canceled due to restoration work on the tower. It was truly a beautiful and varied journey across Europe, with pleasant—not too hot—weather and countless new impressions. Except for Florence (even rustic Genoa, in my opinion, had more character), it’s definitely something I’d recommend to anyone.

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