April is the month when nature reminds us that it’s time for new directions and spontaneous escapes. The days grow longer, travel plans multiply, and inspiration waits around every corner. ASTOM blogs are also full of inspiring stories, useful ideas, and beautiful routes to explore. We’ve gathered the best of April for you — enjoy the read!
Budapest – Between Aristocratic Spirit and the Pulse of a Modern City
From Nadezhda Toleva, Family Travel Spirit
Budapest is one of those places we think we know well, yet it always finds a way to surprise us. For us, it was the city that made us break our own rule – never to visit the same place twice. Returning 11 years later, we discovered a transformed, radiant, and more vibrant Budapest that welcomed us with a completely new energy.
In this article, we take you through the contrasts of „two cities in one“ – from the hilly and aristocratic Buda with its fairy-tale Fisherman’s Bastion, to the bustling life of Pest with its imperial boulevards and legendary ruin bars. See what we have prepared for you regarding the magic of the Parliament at night, the emotion at the „Shoes on the Danube Bank,“ and the small adventures like the retro metro or a „Harry Potter“ style birthday.
If you are planning a trip to the Hungarian capital and want to experience something different, here you will find useful ideas and personal tips. They will help you experience the city at your own pace – whether you are on a romantic weekend for two or a family adventure with kids. Budapest has a layer for everyone, as long as you know where to look for it.
Is Aachen Worth Visiting? A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Aachen
From Hristina Nabosnyi, Check In Away
We didn’t expect much from Aachen—but as our first stop on our interrail trip, it completely surprised us. Discover top highlights including Aachen Cathedral, the historic Aachen Town Hall and the unique three-country point where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands meet. Perfect for a day trip or a relaxed stop on your Germany itinerary.
Medieval Church of St. Cosmas and Damian, village of Marvodol
From Eli Ivanova, en.drumivdumi.com
The church is located on the southern outskirts of the village of Marvodol, in Nevestino Municipality, about 86 km from Sofia and 22 km from Kyustendil. Architecturally, it is a small cruciform church with a single apse and no narthex. Based on its construction, it is dated to the second half of the 14th century. Unfortunately, much of it is now in ruins, with the apse being the best-preserved part.
If you’re interested in exploring remnants of medieval Bulgaria, this old church near Marvodol is well worth a visit. Here’s how to find it.
11 ideas for day trips from Sofia, Bulgaria
From Stef, Kiss My Backpack
This guide to day trips from Sofia focuses on what actually makes each destination worth your time. It covers a range of options – from mountain hikes and lakes to historic towns and cultural landmarks – with clear context, realistic expectations, and practical ways to get there, so you can plan beyond the obvious.
Stay tuned for „The Best Of“ column next month!