21 European City Breaks You’ll Want to Visit Again and Again

I love going away on a city break in Europe. They’re a fabulous way to escape the everyday routine and explore a new destination without needing to pack a big suitcase or take too much time off work. The pefect quick travel fix.

Living in the UK, just a short drive from London’s airports, I’m lucky to have easy access to European cities. Nipping over the Channel for weekend trips to Europe or even a few mid-week nights is such a fun way to relax and unwind! I’m lucky to be a 45-minute drive from the Channel Tunnel which makes visiting France and Belgium fairly effortless.

But which are the best weekend trips in Europe?

Of course, that’s down to personal choice, but to help you decide, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite European city breaks. I’ve visited all of these destinations, most more than once, so you can be sure I’m basing my choices on personal experience. These are the cities that draw me back again and again.

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What makes the perfect city break?

City breaks are a great way to take a break from your everyday routine and try something new. Explore unfamiliar streets, taste new cuisines and explore cultures that give you a new perspective on the world.

For me, the perfect European city break destination needs to tick a few boxes:

• Easy to reach and easy to get around
• Enough to see and do in a short time
• Beautiful architecture or historic old towns
• Lively squares and café culture
• Riversides, canals or waterfronts
• Local life and explorable neighbourhoods
• A buzz that makes you want to linger

Plenty to see and do in a short time

The best city breaks in Europe must have enough to see and do but not so much that you wear yourself out trying to do it all. Although, you could theme your trip and then return another time to enjoy a different aspect of it. Think plenty to experience without overwhelm and time to just soak it all in.

Iconic sights and landmarks are a must with scenic viewpoints, riversides or waterfronts along with a decent choice of museums, galleries and cultural attractions. Ideally, it’s easily navigated on foot and public transport.

A great food and drink scene

Exploring the local cuisine is one of my favourite ways to discover a destination. I always look for a city with a good choice of places to eat and a range of price points. Everything from pavement cafés and brunch spots to traditional eateries, food markets and street food stalls.

A cool bar, friendly pub or taverna is always a welcome sight and I just love a rooftop bar with a great view or a pavement café with epic people watching potential. I always factor in time for people watching!

Weekend breaks in Europe can often revolve around food or a local speciality. I always make a point of trying local food and regional cuisine and especially love food festivals and events.

Something unique or memorable

There are thousands of city breaks in Europe but the best ones usually have a compelling reason to pick them over somewhere else. Something special which helps them stand out in a crowded list of European cities.

Think famous landmarks, distinct neighbourhoods or unique experiences like thermal baths, historic cafés or monuments. Hello Leaning Tower of Pisa, the double staircase in Graz or Le Grand Elephant in Nantes. You get my drift.

Character, charm and atmosphere

I love architecture, but the streets of my ideal city break destination could be lined with anything from medieval half-timber houses, Art Deco or modern architecture.

The key is for my city break destination to look distinctly different from home. Ideally with some unique neighbourhoods to explore, a lovely boutique hotel and an atmosphere that stays with me long after I return home.

The Weather

Does the perfect city break need sunshine? Not necessarily, but good weather certainly doesn’t hurt, especially if I’m planning a city break in Spring or Summer. Having said that, it’s hard to beat warming up with a gluhwein or luxury hot chocolate after a cold day exploring a northern European city!

Budget

If you’re looking for a cheap European city break you won’t find it here. I really dislike using the word ‘cheap’ because I feel it demeans the destination. What might be considered cheap for you or I might not be for a person that lives there or for someone in another part of the world.

I prefer to use the terms affordable or budget friendly. The same goes for luxury travel, what might be luxury to me could be pretty average for you.

My favourite European city breaks

Now you know what makes the perfect city break, let’s take a look at my pick of the top city breaks in Europe. There are some big hitters and some which don’t get the attention they deserve.

Graz, Austria

Graz is Austria’s captivating second city, where Renaissance courtyards meet modern design. It has one of Central Europe’s best-preserved Old Towns, a UNESCO World Heritage site with terracotta rooftops watched over by the Clock Tower on the Schlossberg hill.

Most of the top things to do in Graz lie close to the main square or Hauptplatz, which is home to an impressive fountain and colourful Baroque façades. Nearby Herrengasse is a pedestrianised street filled with elegant shops and the elaborately decorated Herzoghof building, also known as the Painted House.

Graz’s modern side comes in the shape of the Kunsthaus Graz, the modern art museum known as the ‘Friendly Alien’.

The city is also known as Austria’s culinary capital, making it a perfect destination for a Graz gourmet city break. The city’s restaurants showcase farm-to-table menus filled with delicious produce from the Styrian countryside. Be sure to visit the city’s bustling farmers’ markets to pick up some ‘Black Gold’ pumpkin seed oil and regional wines.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a stunning blend of baroque architecture, rich musical heritage and delicious Alpine cuisine. Your Salzburg city break will probably focus on the UNESCO-listed Old Town , a maze of elegant squares, church domes and historic townhouses. Classical music fans will be drawn to Mozart’s birthplace on the bustling Getreidegasse, which is lined with elegant shops and high, narrow houses.

Over in the new Town on the opposite side of the Salzach River, the perfectly manicured Mirabell Gardens offer picture-postcard views. From there, you get an excellent view of the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval castles.

Salzburg’s culinary scene is as much of a draw as the city’s landmarks. Traditional Austrian coffee houses serve delicate pastries and Sachertorte, while cosy beer halls like Stieglkeller pair local brews with hearty alpine fare.

Salzburg makes a perfect winter break with the twinking Christmas markets turning the city into a fairytale.

Bruges, Belgium

Cobbled lanes and canals make a city break in Bruges feel like stepping back in time. The historic city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, focused around the 83-metre-high Belfry tower and lively Market Square. You might recognise the Belfry tower from the film ‘In Bruges’.

Other key landmarks in Bruges include the ornate 14th-century City Hall and the 13th-century Church of Our Lady, which houses Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child. Horse-drawn carriages take you past rows of gabled houses, and canal cruises showcase the fairytale façades from a different perspective.

Be sure to travel to Bruges with an appetite. The city is renowned for artisan chocolate shops, crisp Belgian waffles and hundreds of different beers, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you visit Bruges around Christmas, this historic city takes on an even more magical appearance for the popular Christmas markets.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s most dramatic city break destinations, perched above the Adriatic Sea and encircled by 16th-century stone walls.

The city was ruled by Venice from 1205 to 1358, which had a profound influence on the city’s architecture. The well-preserved Old Town is a labyrinth of ‘marble’ streets that are actually made of white limestone polished to a glossy finish by centuries of foot traffic.

The elegant Stradun (or Placa) is the long pedestrianised road where you’ll find many of Dubrovnik’s historic buildings and monuments. These include the 16th-century Sponza Palace, Onofrio’s Large Fountain and the Venetian-Baroque style Church of St. Blaise.

Nearby Fort Lovrijenac stands guard over the coastline, and Game of Thrones fans will recognise the triangular fort as the Red Keep in King’s Landing.

Dubrovnik is as delicious as it is unforgettable, with a culinary scene that reflects its coastal setting. Visit seafront restaurants and tucked-away konobas (taverns) for plenty of fresh seafood and crisp Croatian wines.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Wonderful Copenhagen combines centuries of culture and history with contemporary Nordic style for a perfect winter city break.

The colourful 17th-century waterfront of Nyhavn is the city’s familiar picture-postcard image, while the famous Tivoli Gardens delights visitors with its historic fairground. Head to Rosenborg Castle to view the Danish crown jewels and explore the beautiful gardens, and visit the Design Museum to learn more about Copenhagen’s cool Danish architecture.

A Copenhagen canal tour is a relaxed way to view the city, taking you past top landmarks like Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace and the Opera House. Canal tours end at Nyhavn, and from there it’s just a short stroll to the shopping and design delights of Strøget.

Copenhagen is also a must-visit for foodies. The city offers plenty of tempting treats from traditional smørrebrød piled high with toppings to cutting-edge New Nordic restaurants serving local, seasonal and sustainable cuisine.

London, England

You knew I’d include London in my selection of the best European cities for weekend breaks, didn’t you?

The UK’s capital city has something to suit everyone, no matter whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a theatre fan or just love exploring one of the world’s great cities. It’s ideal for a city break at any time of year, but Christmas in London is particularly special.

One of my favourite things to do in London is browsing the museums and art galleries, such as the Natural History Museum and the Tate. Many of these offer free admission to their main collection, which helps lower the cost of visiting London. I love the area around London Bridge station which has loads to explore including Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe and the Tate Modern.

If you’re visiting London for the first time, must-see attractions include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square. You should definitely book afternoon tea at a London hotel for the quintessential British experience, visit The Shard and hit the West End to see a musical.

Once you’ve done all that, hop on the Tube (the London Underground) to explore a little further out in Greenwich or Hampton Court Palace. There’s so much to see, you’ll soon be planning your next London city break!

Helsinki, Finland

Sitting on a peninsula between the forest and the sea, Helsinki is a stylish city that blends Nordic cool with vibrant creativity.

Its streets are lined with striking architecture from the elegant neoclassical Helsinki Cathedral to the Art Nouveau apartments of Katajanokka and the sleek modernist lines of Finlandia Hall. Don’t miss a visit to Temppeliaukio Church, which is carved directly into solid rock.

But there’s more to Helsinki than architecture. The Design District is packed with independent boutiques, galleries and studios, and you’ll receive a warm Finnish welcome in the city’s excellent bars, cafés and restaurants.

If time allows, a short ferry ride will take you to one of the 300+ islands in the Helsinki archipelago for a different view of the city. Pihlajasaari and Vallisaari are popular islands for a summer visit, but the UNESCO-listed island fortress of Suomenlinna is accessible all year round.

Annecy, France

The picturesque city of Annecy is known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’ for its flower-lined canals and historic charm. It lies at the northern tip of Lake Annecy in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France.

The medieval Château d’Annecy overlooks an Old Town filled with winding streets and charming pastel-coloured houses, all set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy.

Annecy is a year-round playground for lovers of outdoor pursuits. In summer, the lake is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and cycling along its scenic shoreline, while more adventurous visitors can enjoy hiking and paragliding in the mountains. When winter arrives, the slopes transform into a snowy wonderland for skiing, snowboarding and cosy chalet escapes.

After all that outdoor exercise, it’s no surprise that the local Savoyard restaurants serve rich, rustic Alpine dishes featuring plenty of local cheeses and charcuterie. Treat yourself to local specialities like tartiflette, fondue and raclette after a long day on the mountain slopes.

We’ve stopped at Annecy for a short break on the drive back home from our Spring ski trip. Troyes and Dijon are also good stop-overs.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is another great alternative to Paris for a French city break, with a multicultural identity that makes it a fascinating city break destination. Founded by the Romans more than 2000 years ago, the city switched nationality between French and German four times between 1870 and 1945.

Strasbourg is framed by three rivers: the Rhine, the Ill and the Tortu. The old town, known as the Grande Île, is enclosed on all sides by the Ill River, and a river cruise takes you past medieval covered bridges and half-timbered houses.

The city’s magnificent Gothic cathedral soars above the picturesque 16th-17th century houses and cobblestone streets of the La Petite France district. Strasbourg is also the official seat of the European Parliament, and the lively squares and riverside cafés echo the city’s cosmopolitan spirit.

Strasbourg’s famous Christmas market is the oldest in France (since 1570), and a visit at this time of year will add a festive flavour to your Strasbourg city break.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin might not be as pretty as Paris or as sunny as Seville, but it has the cool factor in buckets.

This is a city that constantly reinvents itself, and its checkered history is reflected in the mix of architectural styles. Historic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Charlottenburg Palace stand alongside grand boulevards and bold Bauhaus designs.

Reminders of Berlin’s dark 20th-century history are ever-present, from the glass dome that sits over the Reichstag building to the brass Stolpersteine (‘stumbling stones’) on pavements around the city.

Remnants of the Berlin Wall are now transformed into the colourful East Side Gallery, and the Fernsehturm (TV Tower) offers a birds-eye view of the city from its position in former East Berlin.

But modern-day Berlin is vibrant and stylish, with bold street art, trendy stores and a great nightlife scene. History lovers can lose themselves in a whole island of museums, and the city’s efficient U-bahn makes exploring the city simple.

Cologne, Germany

A popular stop for Rhine river cruises, Cologne is a vibrant city where Roman history meets a lively contemporary energy. There are plenty of fascinating things to see and do in Cologne. The city’s skyline is dominated by the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, one of Europe’s Gothic masterpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can wander through the colourful Aldstadt (Old Town) and pass thousands of love locks as you cross the Hohenzollern Bridge.

Heritage plays a major role in Cologne, which was founded by the Romans 2000 years ago. History buffs can explore modern art at Museum Ludwig, chocolate making at the Schokoladenmuseum and Roman artefacts, including the Dionysus mosaic, at the Romano-Germanic Museum.

Cologne also hosts one of Europe’s largest Carnival celebrations in February or March and a fabulous festive fair in the weeks before Christmas. However, the buzzy riverside promenades lined with cafés and beer halls make it a fun destination for European getaways at any time of year.

Athens, Greece

Athens is a city where ancient history sits side-by-side with the modern day. It’s often overlooked by holiday-makers heading to the Greek islands, but it offers the perfect location for a sunshine-filled city break.

Ancient history defines the city’s appeal, from the Parthenon sitting atop the Acropolis to the stunning marble Panathenaic Stadium. The Acropolis Museum breathes life into ancient treasures, and the Ancient Agora of Athens gives visitors a glimpse into Athenian society thousands of years ago.

More modern attractions include the charming neighbourhood of Plaka with its 19th-century houses, cafés and tavernas. Talking of which, Athens residents have a strong tradition of dining out, so tucking into dishes like grilled souvlaki, creamy tzatziki and fresh Greek salads is very affordable.

If you’re yearning to explore the Greek islands, hopping on a boat to nearby islands like Aegina, Hydra or Agistri will only cost a few euros.

Budapest, Hungary

Hungary’s capital city was created in 1873 by merging three cities: Buda and Óbuda on the western side of the Danube and Pest on the eastern side. It’s often known as ‘the Little Paris of the East’, thanks to its grand boulevards and 19th-century French-inspired architecture.

However, Budapest is a great option for a budget city break, costing far less to visit than many other European capitals.

The city’s two sides have distinct personalities. On the quieter Buda side, the hilly terrain is marked by key landmarks like Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and Gellért Hill. The flatter Pest side of the city is home to the neo-Gothic Parliament building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, café culture and excellent shopping.

The Pest side of the city boasts a bustling nightlife, and it’s worth paying a visit to the ruin bars of the Jewish Quarter for a unique night out. For a more relaxing break, head to the iconic Széchenyi Thermal Bath or take a river cruise down the Danube.

My first trip to Budapest was with my daughter when she was 17 and we had a great time exploring both sides of the city. It’s a great destination for multi-generational travel.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is Europe’s northernmost capital and one of the smallest capital cities you’re likely to visit.

Built around a harbour, its streets are filled with traditional wooden houses, cosy cafés and extraordinary architecture like Harpa Concert Hall and the Hallgrímskirkja church. The city also has some fascinating museums to explore, from the National Museum of Iceland to the cheeky Icelandic Phallological Museum.

The food and drink in Iceland is delicious, if expensive, and it’s worth booking a Reykjavik food tour to try some traditional Icelandic foods. Visiting Reykjavik is also a gateway to Iceland’s extraordinary volcanic landscapes and dramatic coastlines. You can go whalewatching, explore the geysers and geological rifts of the Golden Circle or relax in the famous Blue Lagoon natural spa.

Visiting in summer gives you a chance to experience the midnight sun, while winter visitors may see the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is a fairly compact city that’s ideal for a short city break full of character, history and Irish craic and is one of my favourite European city breaks.

Some of the must-see Dublin attractions include Dublin Castle, Dublinia Viking and Medieval Museum and the EPIC emigration museum in the Docklands area. It’s also worth paying a visit to Trinity College’s magnificent Long Room library to see the historic Book of Kells.

Visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome from this lively and friendly city. Call into one of the many cosy pubs around Temple Bar and beyond to enjoy live music as you sip a pint of Guinness.

A stroll along the River Liffey will take you to the Guinness Storehouse for a fascinating insight into how the ‘black stuff’ is produced. You can also enjoy a pint and a 360-degree view of the city from the Gravity Bar, high above the Dublin streets.

Because Ireland is a relatively small island, Dublin is also a great base for exploring further afield. Renting a car will give you easy access to the pretty seaside village of Howth, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, and picturesque cities like Cork and Galway.

Florence, Italy

The elegant city of Florence is famous as the birthplace of the Renaissance. In the 14th century, the independent city-state became a major centre for trade and arts, allowing geniuses like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci to flourish.

Florence is a more laid-back destination than Rome, and its compact centre is easily explored on foot. It invites you to explore art and architecture at a slower pace, taking time to enjoy an Aperol or a gelato between attractions.

The Duomo’s iconic terracotta dome stands guard over the city, and the medieval Ponte Vecchio stretches over the River Arno. If you’re planning a short break in Florence, other must-visit attractions include the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s breathtaking ‘David’ and the Uffizi Gallery for works by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. These are highly popular, so be sure to book ahead to avoid the long queues.

If you’re staying for more than a day or two, I highly recommend taking a day trip to the local Chianti vineyards.

Rome, Italy

The Eternal City – maybe called that because a lifetime wouldn’t be long enough to see all it has to offer. Hence the reason I keep returning. Rome is a classic European city break destination. You’ll find ancient history and works of art around every corner, from the Roman Forum and Colosseum to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.

It’s also worth paying a visit to the Vatican City, the smallest sovereign state in the world. Located entirely within the city of Rome, the Vatican is home to landmarks like the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Square. You can also climb to the top of St Peter’s Basilica for panoramic views over the city.

All that sightseeing is sure to leave you feeling hungry, and Rome is sheer heaven for foodies. Italian cuisine is deeply regional, so be sure to sample some Rome food and drink and definitely eat like a local on this excellent food tour during your city break.

Local specialities include Saltimbocca alla Romana, thin-crust pizza al taglio e the four classic Roman pastas – Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana and Gricia.

Or just sit in a pavement café and sip an espresso as you watch the world go by!

Sorrento, Italy

A world away from the northern cities of Rome and Florence, Sorrento sits high above the sparkling Bay of Naples. With its ideal combination of location and laid-back charm, a short break in Sorrento promises an unforgettable southern Italy experience.

This classic Italian seaside town is the perfect coastal city break destination. It’s a treat for all the senses, from the streets lined with pastel-hued houses and the scent of lemon groves, to evenings serenaded by live music in the bars and restaurants.

Sorrento is also a perfect base for exploring this part of southern Italy. Take a drive down the Amalfi Coast to marvel at dramatic cliff-top views and picturesque villages, or head to Pompeii and Herculaneum for a glimpse into Roman life, frozen in time 2000 years ago.

Meanwhile, Mount Vesuvius looms ever-present on the horizon, inviting visitors to hike its slopes for the ultimate view of the Bay.

Krakow, Poland

The city of Krakow is elegant, atmospheric and wonderfully affordable. It’s one of the most captivating destinations for a Central Europe city break without a hefty price tag.

At the heart of Krakow’s UNESCO-listed Old Town sits the vast Main Market Square, the largest medieval town square in Europe. It’s lined with pastel townhouses and major landmarks like the 13th-century Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and the twin spires of St Mary’s Basilica. The square also hosts a fabulous festive market in the weeks before Christmas.

Kraków is also a haven for history buffs, from the Wawel Royal Castle to the historic Kazimierz Jewish Quarter and Oskar Schindler’s Factory. Day trips to the Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau will complete an enthralling Polish city break.

Krakow’s cobbled streets are filled with stylish restaurants, traditional cellar bars and cosy cafés. You can linger over hearty plates of pierogi and warming bowls of żurek, the city’s ubiquitous sour rye soup.

Seville, Spain

If you’re looking for a sun-soaked, laid-back European city break, Seville is hard to beat. It’s famously the sunniest place in Europe, and the combination of Gothic and Moorish architecture makes it one of the most photogenic Spanish cities.

Seville’s soul is shaped by flamenco, tapas culture, and centuries of history. The iconic Plaza de España is a must-visit, along with the vast Cathedral and atmospheric Real Alcazar. But don’t forget to head up to the Metropol Parasol, known as the Mushrooms of Seville, for a modern twist on this historic city.

And as the sun sets over Seville, the streets come alive with the rhythm of flamenco and the rich aroma of jamón and grilled seafood.

Summer in Seville can be oppressively hot, so visit in Spring to enjoy the heady scent of orange blossom or in October/November for some welcome Autumn sunshine.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is an ideal destination for a slow-paced city break. It’s a compact city, so it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike, and relatively affordable compared to many European capitals.

Of course, the city is infamous for its Red Light District and coffee shops but there’s much more to do in Amsterdam. The winding streets are filled with narrow gabled houses and cultural attractions. Art lovers will enjoy the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, and the Anne Frank House offers a sobering reminder of recent history.

And it’s always a pleasure to sit at a canalside café and people-watch while you indulge in a gooey stroopwafel!

Once you’ve visited the main attractions, be sure to go off the beaten track and check out quirky Amsterdam things to do like the Xtra Cold Ice bar or the Amsterdam Cheese Museum. The modern city of Rotterdam is also just a short train ride away, making it a great option for a day trip.

That rounds up some of my favourite European city breaks, I hope you found it useful and offered some inspiration for your next European break. I’m already starting to plan mine for this year. Where would you like to go next?