It’s a long time since I’ve been a tourist in my own city. As any Londoner knows, you spend your time getting quickly from place to place, rather than stopping to see what’s around you. Too often we’re crammed on the tube, whizzing from one end of town to the other, with no clue of the monuments and sights just above us.
Yet when we take the time to stop and look beneath the surface, London is about so much more than you might expect. A multi-faceted destination that has a myriad of layers just waiting to be peeled back, all you need to do is dare to explore and you’ll be surprised at just what comes tumbling out.
Those visiting tend to play it safe and head to the standard attractions – the London Eye, Big Ben and Oxford St. While they’re worth ticking off for those that haven’t been before, London is about so much more than wax works and shopping till you drop.
This is exactly what Mercure London’s Discover Local is aiming to highlight. When you stay at Mercure hotels, you have access to a new curated list of authentic experiences in collaboration with Alpaca Maps. Offering a wealth of discovery, the plan is to help you live like a local, stepping away from the main sights and finding something new.
Discover Local – A London Itinerary…
STOP 1– KYOTO GARDENS
Begin your Discover Local venture with a leisurely meander through Kyoto Gardens – London’s own traditional Japanese Oasis complete with a serene pond full of koi carp, stone lanterns and Japanese maple trees. It’s an ideal spot to bring a book, drink and park up for the afternoon, forgetting you’re plonked right in the epicentre of one of the busiest cities in Europe.
STOP 2 – ST DUNSTAN IN THE EAST
Continue your foray into London’s hidden gems with a trip to St Dunstan in the East – a bombed church ruins nestled just between London Bridge and the Tower of London. A picturesque garden and churchyard adorned in wild greenery, it’s a fantastic hidden gem that’s well worth exploring – and photographing. Beautiful open church windows whisper to the locations chequered past and while you expect it could feel eerie here, the truth is far from it. It’s breathtakingly beautiful.
STOP 3– BEDALES BOROUGH MARKET
Head by foot to your third destination – Borough Market. One of the city’s oldest and largest food markets, there is a market on site that dates back to at least the 12th century. A foodie paradise, weave your way past stalls of rainbow-coloured vegetables, sizzling paellas and fresh cakes until you reach Bedales.
A cosy wine bar and shop tucked under the eaves, bottles of vintage line the walls and revellers sit atop metal stools. Here you can sip on crisp glasses of white, savour rich reds and nibble on mouthwatering, local charcuterie. It’s the ideal place to stop, take in your surroundings and take in the hustle and bustle while not being right in the throes of it.
London is a city with so much to give – should you just care to look. Discover Local at Mercure enables you to find out more of what makes this city so fantastic and fall in love with it all over again.
But that’s not all. Mercure’s new curated list of authentic experiences for its guests to discover extends to Europe’s top cities. You can find out more and get inspired below…
…Discovery further Afield
Frankfurt, Germany
Known for its impressive art scene, history and delicious food, the central German city of Frankfurt is the ideal place for a city break. Discover Local in Frankfurt by delving into the many historic buildings, from the birthplace of famous poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe to the significant “House of all Germans” church. Admire the city skyline at sunset from above at local favourite Goetheturm, the Goethe Tower, or take in the views from one of the best photo spots in the city, The Eiserner Steg, a romantic 19th-century footbridge over the river. Foodies will love the fresh produce on offer at the quirky market of Kleinmarkthalle and the local delicacy of apple wine, best sampled in the Bornheim neighborhood.
– Where to stay: Mercure Hotel Kaiserhof Frankfurt City Center
– Frankfurt Map: Discover Local in Frankfurt
Edinburgh, Scotland
The historic capital of Scotland is famous for its stunning buildings and unique charm. Local favorites include the impressive Thistle Chapel, with beautiful detailing throughout, and The Chocolatarium, a micro chocolate factory full of sweet treats. Explore Edinburgh’s best kept secrets with Mercure’s maps, including the beautiful Dean Village, a stone’s throw from Prince’s Street and the city’s best viewpoint, the rooftop of the National Museum. Visitors can lose themselves in glorious architecture or expand their minds at McNaughton’s Bookshop and Gallery, a treasure trove of limited-edition novels.
– Where to stay: Mercure Edinburgh City Princes Street Hotel
– Edinburgh Map: Discover Local in Edinburgh
Kraków, Poland
The vibrant city of Kraków has much to offer any traveller, from places of historical significance to an abundance of restaurants and bars. Residents recommend soaking up the atmosphere in the main medieval market square of Rynek Główny and taking advantage of the many restaurants and shops nearby. Visitors can take a journey back in time at the Auschwitz – Birkenau Museum, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, or experience the best of Kraków without the tourist crowds in the trendy neighborhood of Kazmierzm, a former Jewish quarter. The best of Polish fast food can be tried at Plac Nowy, washed down with Poland’s favourite sprit, vodka, at Wodka Bar.
– Where to stay: Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto
– Kraków Map: Discover Local in Kraków
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Buzzing with exciting local opportunities to seize, Amsterdam is the city to be in for incredible food and unique experiences. From small hidden gems such as Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, a museum in a 17th century canal house, to Amsterdam’s most famous park, the Vondelpark, there is something for everyone. Locals love the popular terrace of local brewery Brouwerij ‘t IJ and every Amsterdammer has visited Natura Artis Magistra, known as Artis locally, one of the world’s oldest zoos and botanical gardens. Visitors can shop till they drop in vintage stores at De 9 Straatjes or enjoy the many eateries in the narrow streets of De Pijp. Wijmpje Beukers and Venster 33 are both recommended as somewhere to stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
– Where to stay: Mercure Hotel Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station
– Amsterdam Map: Discover Local in Amsterdam
Berlin, Germany
Home to spectacular city views and funky venues for sitting and sipping, Berlin is the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure. For art enthusiasts, locals recommend checking out modern art at Hamburger Bahnhof – Museum für Gegenwart, the unique open-air East Side Gallery on a stretch of the Berlin Wall and seeing just why Berlin is known as the graffiti capital of Europe at Urban Nation Museum. After a day of culture immersion, tuck into a classic kebab in the secret capital of döner at the first Hasir restaurant, a traditional Berlin brand, or for a quick bite try a curry sausage at Curry 36, popular with taxi drivers all across the city.
– Where to stay: Mercure Hotel Berlin Wittenbergplatz
– Berlin Map: Discover Local in Berlin
Bucharest, Romania
Named as one of the prettiest places to visit in Romania, the capital city of Bucharest is full of magnificent monuments and lush green spaces. One of the most photographed places is Pasajul Victoriei, otherwise known as the Umbrella Street. The vibrant umbrella canopy attracts visitors from all over the world looking for an Insta-worthy shot. Bucharest’s rich history can be uncovered at the Palace of the Parliament, the world’s heaviest structure and a labyrinth of never-ending hallways. After a day of seeing the sights, wind down with a coffee at the Macca-Vilacrosse passage, a beautiful arcade filled with cosy cafés.
– Where to stay: Mercure Bucharest City Center
– Bucharest Map: Discover Local in Bucharest
Vienna, Austria
The ‘City of Music’ is ready to welcome visitors to the home of Mozart for artistic adventures, culinary journeys and to learn more about its remarkable imperial legacy. Discover Vienna’s history and the fascinating life of Empress Elisabeth, or ‘Sisi’, at the appropriately named the ‘The Sisi Museum’. Pay your respects to some of history’s greatest musicians, including the iconic Ludwig van Beethoven, amongst the tranquility of Zentralfriedhof cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in the world. Visit The Silver Collection Museum for a unique insight into culinary culture or visit the Lipizzaner horses for an entertaining dressage performance. Fancy a late-night snack after hitting the town? Try the Würstelstand am Hohen Markt to truly end a night out like a local.
– Where to stay: Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier Wien
– Vienna Map: Discover Local in Vienna
Timișoara, Romania
Nicknamed ‘Little Vienna’, Timisoara is a great destination for those seeking historical monuments, beautiful outdoor spaces and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can make their way into the heart of the city and explore Piața Victoriei, meaning ‘Victory Square’, which features a plethora of charming shops, restaurants and museums. Locals particularly recommend visiting the Orthodox Cathedral in the area for its spectacular architecture. For history enthusiasts, the Natural History Museum and the reconstructed medieval village at Muzeul Satului Bănățean are well worth a visit. For the foodies, there is no better way to try Banat cuisine then a tasting tour around the city centre and travellers cannot leave without trying the traditional dish of Mâncare de brozbe.
– Where to stay: Mercure Timisoara
– Romania Map: Discover Local in Timisoara
London, England
Even one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations has its secret spots. The peaceful Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is a welcome escape from bustling London, home to waterfalls and ponds teeming with wildlife. Lesser-known stunning views across the River Thames await at the Southbank Centre’s equally peaceful rooftop garden. Kew Gardens in leafy West London is the perfect picnic spot but for a real foodie haven, look no further than Borough Market. London’s oldest food market, dating back to the 13th century has delicious fresh produce in every direction; it’s no surprise that it’s a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.
– Where to stay: Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel
- London Map: Discover Local in London
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is known for its rich culture and grand structures but as the ‘City of Spas’, what better place for total relaxation. The iconic Szechenyi Spa Baths are a real hotspot where visitors can go to unwind and enjoy a swim in the thermal water. Other popular spots include Fisherman’s Bastion for unforgettable views and the famous Buda Castle, home to the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. A relaxing boat trip down the Danube or a walk down the Chain Bridge, connecting Buda and Pest, are best at sunset.
If looking for the trendiest spots in Budapest, then look no further than the ruin bars and pubs of the Jewish Quarter; the original ruin bar, Szimpla Kert, is a well-established favourite.
– Where to stay: Mercure Budapest Korona Hotel
– Budapest Map: Discover Local in Budapest
Bristol, England
With a long and fascinating history, this bustling harbour city appeals to travellers of all kinds. Join a free city tour to discover Bristol’s colourful street art, including work from legendary local Bristolian Banksy, such as the famous ‘Girl with the Pierced Eardrum’. Take a leisurely stroll along the harbour waterfront with a locally brewed craft beers or dive in at the deep end with a wide range of water sports, such as paddle boarding and yachting, along the River Avon. Alternatively, wonder at scientific marvels at the Clifton Observatory’s Camera Obscura, a curiosity of Victorian-era engineering.
– Where to stay: Mercure Bristol Holland House
– Bristol Map: Discover Local in Bristol
Warsaw, Poland
Poland’s largest city is full of royal palaces, parks, arts and culinary delights as well as an impressive museum scene. Warsaw’s 12th century Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a favourite amongst visitors to Poland. Locals recommend beginning any trip in the central market and walking towards the Warsaw Mermaid statue before exploring the rest of the neighbourhood, full of colourful buildings. Suggested walking routes also include a riverside stroll at Vistula Boulevards and seeing the home of the kings at Zamek Krolewsk.. Mouth-watering food and drink can be found in the market hall at Hala Koszyki but the best pint can be found at the historic brewery, Browary Wartzawskie.
– Where to stay: Mercure Warszawa Centrum
– Warsaw Map: Discover Local in Warsaw
Munich, Germany
As one of the beer capitals of the world and famous for its lively Oktoberfest, a break in Munich is guaranteed to be full of fun. No trip to Munich would be complete without a visit to the Beer and Oktoberfest Museum where some of the finest Bavarian beer can be tried. Spend days climbing Old Peter, one of the city’s best-known churches or strolling around The English Garden, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. In the evening, enjoy the nightlife of Glockenbachviertel, one of the city’s hippest areas, or sample local dishes at Bavarian restaurant Atzinger. For something different, why not try a beer and cheese flavoured ice cream at Der Verrückter Eismacher, the most famous ice-cream parlour in town.
– Where to stay: Mercure Hotel Muenchen City Center
– Munich Map: Discover Local in Munich
These are just a few of the opportunities to Discover Local with Mercure. To find out more, visit this link.
