The 30 Best City Breaks in Europe

City break options in Europe are endless, and it’s hard to collate the perfect list. So this is a collection of the big-hitters – the biggest and best Europe has to offer. Helped along by some blogging friends, here are the 30 best city breaks in Europe. If this doesn’t give you bucket loads of inspiration, I don’t know what will!

The 30 Best City Break Ideas in Europe:

… According to me and my travel blogging friends! These are in alphabetical order for ease.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Amsterdam is an iconic European city break. Whether you are visiting Amsterdam in the summer, or taking a winter break to enjoy the Christmas markets, the city is vibrant all year round. We enjoy staying at the NH Amsterdam Museum Quarter.

Take a boat ride along the canals, and enjoy comprehensive transit options by way of trams, bus links and a very walkable centre. Travel by bicycle on the extensive bike pathways (if you dare learn the bike etiquette)!

Favourite sights include the Rijksmuseum, which has a huge collection of Dutch and world art and history. Anne Frank House, Jordaan, and a canal boat tour are also popular sights. Don’t forget to sample some jenever while you are there! If you only have a short time, use my 24-hour guide to Amsterdam to make the most of your visit.

If you like beer, enjoy the Heineken Experience!

Athens, Greece

From Amber at Get Lost in Wanderlust

Athens, Greece is best known for being a city with over 3,000 years of history.  Athens is worth visiting on your next city break because it’s a lively and fun city full of culture, history, and delicious food.

The best thing to do in Athens is to explore the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. The Acropolis is the site of the ancient temples of Athens, such as the Parthenon. The Acropolis Museum is located nearby and includes all the statues and artifacts that were found at the Acropolis excavation site. Another must-visit historical site is the Ancient Agora, which once served as the marketplace and center of city life in ancient Athens.

After soaking up some of Athen’s history, make sure to check out the Plaka neighborhood. Plaka is a picturesque part of Athens with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is the perfect place to try some famous Greek food, like Gyros or Souvlaki.

The center of Athens is very walkable, and while they have a metro system, it isn’t needed to explore the main sites. There are also many centrally located hotels, such as Hotel Electra Athens, that make for a perfect base for exploring this exciting city.

Barcelona, Spain

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Barcelona has long been a city that has drawn artists and architects. Gaudi’s work alone is worth the visit. A weekend in Barcelona is a mix of colour, frenetic energy, amazing food and drink, and world class art and Catalan culture. Visiting Gaudi’s masterpiece, Sagrada Familia, is a must – it is nearly finished after 200 years of construction.

Alongside the main sights and museums, we recommend some time relaxing on the beach, taking in a concert at Basilica Santa Maria del Pi, or wandering the Gothic Quarter. A ride up the Telefèric de Montjuïc (Barcelona Cable Car) and walk down via the museums of Montjuïc is lovely. The MNAC (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya) is not only beautifully laid out, but the building itself is fantastic.

Don’t come to Barcelona to sleep, but if you need to, try AC Hotel by Marriott Barcelona Forum or the Aparthotel Silver Barcelona.

Berlin, Germany

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Berlin, a city with a fraught history which lingers in the consciousness (for good reason), yet is juxtaposed with dynamic art and culture, nightlife and landscapes. The Brandenburg Gate, grand avenues and palatial Reichstag are worth touring. Learning about the Berlin Wall and Third Reich via a walking or bike tour brings this dark period to life.

Berlin has been a centre for many important art movements (which often rise as a result of political unrest). This makes a visit to the Neue National Gallery or Bauhaus Archive very interesting. Staying around Kurfürstendamm (Ku’damm to the locals) is central and has good restaurant options. Try the NH Berlin Kurfürstendamm or Art Nouveau Hotel am Kurfürstendamm.

See my 2 day Berlin or 4 day Berlin itineraries

Bratislava, Slovakia

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Bratislava is one of those cities that has the perfect mix of history and laid back vibe. It is my far preferred city over Vienna actually. While most people stay in Vienna and day trip to Bratislava, I prefer the other way round!

Bratislava joined the EU in 2004 and has so much to offer tourists looking for a European city break. Aside from the stunning Main Square, Blue Church and Castle, Bratislava offers great dining opportunities and nightlife. And I’m not just talking about the impressive beer halls – there are wine bars, and great restaurants to try the heavenly Slovak food.

For hotels, the Park Inn by Radisson is in a fantastic location by the river, or the AC Hotel by Marriott Bratislava in the Old Town.

Take a wine tour with a sommelier to enjoy the local wine offerings

Brussels, Belgium

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Brussels isn’t the most famous city break destination in Europe, but it is perfect for a weekender. It has a compact centre and lots of incredible architecture. Visiting at Christmas is great for the markets too.

Amuse yourself by visiting Mannekin Pis, Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke-Pis – the three little statues peeing. The Grand Place is the main square and has some stunning examples of Gothic architecture, like Brussels Town Hall. On the outskirts, Atomium is a giant steel atom which offers great views and exhibitions.

If you have a short visit, read my 24-hour guide to Brussels. For a weekend visit, 3 days in Brussels is the perfect length to enjoy this lovely city.

Budapest, Hungary

From HH Lifestyle Travel

The city of two halves, Buda and Pest are sliced down the middle by the Danube River. The huge Hungarian capital city is supported by a great transport system – exploring Budapest will keep you busy for a weekend city break.

The House of Parliament building in Budapest is an iconic sight, with its grandeur shining bright next to the majestic Danube River. The city is a feast, from therapeutic thermal springs to culinary masterpieces like steaming goulash and dumplings, and let’s not forget the captivating Gothic Revival architecture. Take a bus tour and river cruise to orientate yourself.

Stay at the central Danubius Hotel Astoria or the riverside Budapest Marriott Hotel in Pest; or the Hilton Budapest up on the hill in Buda.

Copenhagen, Denmark

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Copenhagen didn’t immediately grab me as a destination of note, but it can be a bit of a slow burn. The coloured houses along Nyhavn Harbour are picture postcard perfect. But it was actually the Statens Museum for Kunst, Denmark’s national museum that took me by surprise. In fact, the museums in Copenhagen were all very impressive.

Bring your walking shoes, Copenhagen is a great walking city, but is quite spread out. Or take a bike tour – everyone cycles here! Enjoy modern dining, chic Scandinavian design stores and the 180-year-old Tivoli Gardens amusement park in the city centre. Copenhagen is a great city break if you also want to include a visit to Malmö in Sweden, just over the bridge.

Edinburgh, Scotland

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Edinburgh is my old home town, so please excuse me if this is more of an ode than a guide. Read my complete local’s guide to Edinburgh or 24-hour guide to Edinburgh for more actual advice.

Edinburgh clings to an ancient volcanic landscape, giving it vistas and steep hillsides, beautiful hikes and a perfect promontory for a castle. Buildings crowd the old town, the winding closes and characterful squares. The view opens up over Princes Street Gardens to the Scott Monument and up to the castle complex. But the real treat for visitors to Edinburgh is the people – the friendliest and most fun bunch of locals!

Get yourself up at dawn to climb Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill – the soft light hitting the city will make you fall in love with this city.

Gothenburg, Sweden

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Gothenburg combines the understated style of Scandinavia, with the grandeur of Europe and the beauty of the nearby archipelago. The city has an air of elegance about it, with wide boulevards like Avenyn, which offers lots of cafes and shops to enjoy.

Don’t miss a wander round the cute suburb of Haga, and a tour around the archipelago. This beautiful group of small islands can be reached by a short tram ride to Saltholmen station, and a ferry ride. You can also take a guided tour of the islands. There are so many points of interest in Gothenburg, it is a city break you shouldn’t miss.

Stay at Hotel Flora or Elite Park Avenue Hotel Gothenburg

Hamburg, Germany

From Vicky at Buddy the Traveling Monkey

One of the best city breaks in Europe is to Hamburg, Germany. As the second largest city in Germany, it has a lot of attractions and dining options. Hamburg is also easy to get to, with its own international airport. Once you’re there, it is a very walkable city but also has a fantastic public transportation system.

And if you’re traveling on a budget, great news! There are a lot of free things to do in Hamburg. Hamburg’s Museum of Nature encompasses three museums, all of which are free. They are the Museum of Zoology, the Museum of Mineralogy, and the Museum of Geology and Paleontology.

You can explore the neighborhood of Speicherstadt. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest complex of warehouses, spanning an area of 260,000 square meters. Or, you could visit the famous Elbphilharmonie concert hall and get amazing panoramic views of the River Elbe and the city. There are also five main churches in Hamburg. All of them are beautiful and free to enter. Hamburg also has a chocolate museum, zoo, and many parks and outdoor spaces.

For your city break, consider staying at the Citadines Michel Hamburg. It’s in a great location; within walking distance of attractions and public transportation stations. Don’t miss a Hamburg boat tour while you’re there.

Krakow, Poland

From Diana at Travel in Poland

A city break in Krakow means time spent enjoying a beautiful culture, exploring amazing sites and eating great food.

Krakow is located in southern Poland and has an array of historical landmarks such as the famous Wawel Castle above the Vistula River. The central square in Krakow, also Europe’s largest, holds a building called Sukiennice, which was once an old cloth hall. Today, the building holds multiple vendors selling amber jewellery, traditional costumes, and many other great cultural finds.

The Kazimierz district in Krakow has a bustling nightlife and numerous galleries to visit. Many people also find that short day trips to two popular places, Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz Birkenau are worth doing while they are in Krakow.

Trying a variety of Polish food such as pierogi or placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes) is a must. There is an abundance of local restaurants or you can stop by one of the “bar mleczny” or milk bars, cheap local eats popular with students.

If staying for a few days, Hotel Stary is a luxurious 5-star hotel in a restored building. Bonerowski Palace and PURO Krakow Kazimierz are also top hotels that provide luxury and comfort in great central locations.

Lisbon, Portugal

From Mayuri at To Some Place New

Home to some of the oldest neighbourhoods in Europe, the Portuguese capital is full of charm and culture. On a typical Lisbon itinerary, you can explore old churches, colourful squares, and picturesque alleyways that will transport them back in time. The lively atmosphere of the city makes it perfect for visitors who love to explore and soak up the cultural scenes of a vibrant city. The warm weather and the city’s affordability add up to its charm!

Lisbon also has an array of fantastic museums to explore. Including the National Museum of Ancient Art, which houses some truly remarkable pieces from around the world. If you are not into history and culture, you can take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy some excellent seafood dishes cooked in the traditional way.

Lisbon is also home to some fantastic shopping opportunities. – with lots of places to buy Portuguese souvenirs. There are also plenty of markets selling fresh produce, making it a great place to pick up some traditional ingredients to take back home. Don’t forget to pick up a pack (or two) of pastel de natas (or perhaps learn to bake them!). 

When it comes to nightlife in Lisbon, there are plenty of options to suit all tastes. From lively bars and clubs to traditional fado houses there are lots of options to choose from. Overall, Lisbon is an ideal destination for those looking for a city break full of culture and charm.

Stay at the Ferraria XVI FLH Hotels or Czar Lisbon Hotel

Ljubljana, Slovenia

From Martha at May Cause Wanderlust

If you don’t fancy a bustling metropolis for your city break in Europe, consider Ljubljana in Slovenia. Whilst it is the capital city, compared to many of the other European capitals, it isn’t huge and the pace is relatively slow. 

It is really pretty, though! Ljubljana has a medieval castle on a hilltop above the city, and a gorgeous willow-tree-lined river winding through it. Taking the funicular up to the castle and a boat tour along the Ljubljanica river are both must-dos in Ljubljana. 

It also has some pristine baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, with the pink Franciscan Church of the Annunciation a focal point. There’s plenty of choice of bars along the elegant riverbanks – the perfect place for a spritz on a warm evening.  

There are so many reasons to visit Ljubljana, and if you feel like combining a city break with a day trip into the countryside, you could make a visit to Lake Bled. This is a picturesque teal-coloured lake, in the middle of which is a tiny island with a church on it. The lake is surrounded by mountains and there’s another fairytale castle here, perched high on a cliff top overlooking the lake. You can get to Lake Bled by bus from Ljubljana in around 1.5 hours.

A good mid-range hotel option in Ljubljana is Best Western Premier Hotel Slon, which is centrally located and very comfortable.

Take a Wine & Food Tour to sample the local delights!

London, England

From HH Lifestyle Travel

London has a fascinating 2000-year history. And it is far more than just double decker buses, Big Ben and Harrod’s. Take a walk along the Southbank of the Thames, or visit Greenwich for the maritime history and great pubs. And don’t miss a visit to the Tate Modern during your London visit.

Take in a show in London’s famous West End, and don’t forget dinner somewhere like Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in Knightsbridge. A boat tour of the Thames is a fun way to see the city from the water, and the London Eye offers magnificent views.

London has a lot of hotels, and they can be on the expensive side. Try Premier Inns and Hub hotels for reasonable priced and central locations; or Mama Shelter London Shoreditch.

Lyon, France

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Lyon is known for its position on the Rhone and Saone rivers, its Bouchons, and the incredible Gallo-Roman ruins visible within the city. It has a very different vibe to Paris, but offers many of the same French city features which make it enjoyable. Ancient streets with cafes spilling out, bridges and riverside activity, grand squares and beautiful churches.

Don’t miss a tour of the hidden walkways or ‘Traboules’ of Lyon – a network of hidden passages, borne in the 1800s to aid silk workers in getting their wares across town without damage. But also used by the Resistance movement in WWII.

Stay at the Hôtel Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts, which has a fabulous central location for your weekend in Lyon.

Madrid, Spain

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Madrid, the city of museums, tapas and extraordinary light. From the impressive Palace to the grand Plaza Mayor, there is no shortage of exceptional architecture and history to see in this vibrant city. The Reina Sofia modern art museum is a breath of fresh air in the world of museums. And if you want to see the classics, the famous Prado Museum has a collection so large it will take you all day to visit.

Let’s talk food – while the humble calamari sandwich is a tourist favourite, you must try the empanadas and tapas of course. Don’t forget to try some strawberry gin or Granacha Tintorera wine. Or take a food tour and try it all!

A great location to stay during your weekend in Madrid is the ME Madrid Reina Victoria, near the vibrant Plaza de Santa Ana.

Munich, Germany

From Pamela at The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Munich is a city that boasts a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a charming Bavarian atmosphere. Located in southern Germany, this city is a perfect destination for a European city break. There are plenty of things to do in Munich that will keep you busy! 

Munich is a city that is steeped in history. Visitors can explore the city’s fascinating past by visiting its numerous museums and galleries, such as the Bavarian National Museum and the Deutsches Museum, which are both world-renowned for their extensive collections. The city’s historic landmarks such as the Marienplatz and Neuschwanstein Castle are also worth exploring.

Munich is also a city with a vibrant culture. It is home to numerous world-class cultural institutions, such as the Bavarian State Opera and the Munich Philharmonic, as well as a vibrant arts scene. The city is also famous for its annual Oktoberfest, which is the world’s largest beer festival. Even if you don’t attend Oktoberfest, you can still have a beer at Hofbrauhaus.

Visitors can explore the city’s many beer gardens, stroll through its picturesque streets, and enjoy its traditional Bavarian cuisine. Munich isn’t as overwhelming as other European cities and has a charming Bavarian atmosphere. The city’s central location in Europe also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other parts of Germany and neighbouring countries.

Munich’s unique combination of history, culture, and charm makes it an excellent choice for a city break in Europe. Stay out at the Four Points by Sheraton Munich Arabellapark, a great hotel on the subway network, but out of the bustle of the city centre.

Naples, Italy

From HH Lifestyle Travel

My love of Naples runs deep. It is generally a city that divides opinion – those who love the cacophony and those who don’t. I adore it.

While many visit Naples for one day, as a transit stop for cruises or on their way to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast, it has much to offer on its own. Archaeology, fortresses, palaces and volcanoes to name a few. Partaking in the history of Pizza is a must too.

Take in the view from Certosa San Martino – accessed by funicular, or a winding staircase. The views of Vesuvius are spectacular. Visit the hidden caves of the Naples Underground. Have aperitivo on Piazza Dante, and don’t forget to try Neapolitan coffee – it’s perfection!

Oslo, Norway

From Hannah at That Adventurer

Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is a fantastic destination for a long weekend city break. The city is full of history, great food, and fun things to do. One of the main reasons why Oslo is one of the best cities for a city break is its compact size and walkability. Take a walking tour to acquaint yourself.

One of the best things to do in Oslo is to visit some of the city’s many museums including the Astruup Fearnley Museet which is housed in a stunning building right by the ocean. Or the Munch Museum where you can see the famous ‘Scream’ painting and others by Edvard Munch. 

If you enjoy the outside, be sure to check out the Vigeland Sculpture Park. Home to over 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures by the Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland. Walking along the scenic waterfront area of Aker Brygge with lots of shops, restaurants and cafes or the Akerselva River are lovely activities too. Heading to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, accessible by public transport from the city centre, is another must see attraction in Oslo. From up here you can learn about the history of ski jumping while getting incredible views of the surrounding fjords and forests of Oslo. 

Alongside great public transport options, there are also city bikes and electric scooters which can be found all over the city and accessed via the Bolt app. 

When it comes to accommodation, there’s a range of options for all budgets. Budget travellers should take a look at SmartHotel Oslo which is close to the city centre but offers more wallet-friendly prices. For something more luxurious, check out The Grand Hotel Oslo which has stunning views of the city.

Paris, France

From HH Lifestyle Travel

I couldn’t make a list of the top 30 city breaks in Europe without including Paris. This is not for the usual reasons, but because Paris is a city of love, dichotomies, vibrancy, grit and life. Yes, there are a fair few fancy buildings that are great to see – but the real Paris comes alive while being a flâneur. Walking, sitting, and people-watching – it’s magic.

A city break in Paris includes fine dinners, ancient Roman streets, Haussmann architecture, gorgeous backdrops, river views and great wine. Here are some of my Paris blogs to help you plan:

• Paris for Beginners
• Cafes in the Latin Quarter
• Paris in the Spring
• Dog-friendly Paris
• 24 Hours in Paris
• Outdoor Gems of Paris

Prague, Czechia

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Prague is a hugely popular European city break. It has an exceptional array of architectural types, monuments, castles and squares. Malá Strana is a great neighbourhood to spend time, and to admire the Baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas church. If you want to visit Charles Bridge, get up early and visit at dawn – it is one of the busiest sights in Prague.

You’d want to have 3-4 days minimum in Prague, as it’s a huge city to cover. Consider a tour to help see more if you have less time. It is absolutely buzzing in December for the Christmas markets – but bring a good jacket, as the wind off the river can be freezing!

Stay in the heart of the action at Hotel Leonardo Prague or Hotel Kampa Garden in Malá Strana

Reykjavik, Iceland

From Victoria at Iceland Trippers

If you’re looking for one of the best city breaks in Europe then you need to visit Reykjavik, Iceland. Not only is it the capital of this vibrant country, but Reykjavik is well-located – offering visitors easy access to many amazing natural attractions like the geothermal Blue Lagoon. 

However, you can also understand Icelandic culture better by visiting both the National and Saga museums where you can learn more about the nation’s unique Viking history. In fact, this history is perfectly embodied by the Sun Voyager steel sculpture near the waterfront. It was designed to resemble a Viking ship in honor of the 200th anniversary of the city. It sits in a charming spot where you can walk all along the waterfront. 

Next, visit the awesome Hallgrimskirkja church and enjoy sweeping panoramas from the amazing, rotating Perlan glass dome before checking out the amazing architecture of the Harpa Concert Hall. If you have time, head to the fourth floor of this incredible building and dine at La Primavera restaurant as part of your Reykjavik itinerary.

For hotels, try the Hilton Reykjavik Nordica or Gistiheimilið Sunna near the Hallgrimskirkja church

Riga, Latvia

From Roshni at Top Treehouses

Riga in Latvia is a symphony of spires, steeples, and colourful facades. It is famously the Art Nouveau capital of the world, so is the perfect European city break option for art lovers. Highlights include the House of the Black Heads museum, Riga Central Market, Three Brothers and St Peters Church, which can be visited on foot in just one day.

However, the best way to explore Riga has to be on a night kayak tour. Here you can float past Riga’s illuminated bridges, and experience the canals all to yourself (except for a few beavers that you are bound to spot!).

Whilst in Riga, you also need to try the local food from Rye bread pudding to Latvian cold beet soup.

The easiest way to reach Riga is by plane; or by bus, which takes 4 hours from Tallinn. There are plenty of places to stay in the city including Rixwell Elefant Hotel. You could also be adventurous and try one of the amazing treehouses in Latvia.

Rome, Italy

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Rome is one of the international big hitters in city breaks. Famed for its ancient Roman history, delicious food, the Vatican City and Tiber river, Rome will woo you with its sheer scale. Enjoy the nightlife in Trastevere, drinks at Piazza Navona, a tour of the Vatican museum and Sistine Chapel during the day, and wander through the living history that is the city of Rome.

The immensity of the Colosseum will take your breath away. The tour inside will show you how it functioned – but get your tickets in advance, it’s hugely popular. Visit the Trevi Fountain after midnight to avoid the crowds, and take in a sunset from Passeggiata del Pincio for great views out over Piazza del Popolo.

Stay at the Relais Le Clarisse in Trastevere or Hotel Ponte Sisto

Sofia, Bulgaria

From Sarah at A Social Nomad

The capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia is a cosmopolitan place to explore for a European city break.  Well connected with major and budget airlines as well as with good rail and bus connections Sofia makes for a perfect long weekend destination.  Take the metro into the city center from the airport and then the city is easily walkable.  

The best place to start when visiting Sofia is with a walking tour to explore the sights. There’s more than 2,000 years of history represented here, with the Romans, Greeks, Ottomans, and Soviets having occupied the country.  And so there’s a whole lot of history to explore.  Sofia’s crowning jewel is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the world’s largest Orthodox Cathedrals. The city is extremely multi-cultural – in one city block you’ll find Christian Churches, Mosques, and the Synagogue!

Stay at the four-star Rosslyn Central Park Hotel – perfectly located to get you amid all the attractions of the city.  There’s a host of food options in the city, but be sure to try Bulgarian favorites at a “Mehana”, such as the Mehana Sofia or visit the historic Central Market Hall to snack on specialties.

Stockholm, Sweden

From Kristin at Global Travel Escapades

One of the best destinations in Northern Europe for an enjoyable city break is Stockholm. The Swedish capital is filled with an abundance of historical landmarks and scenic views and offers you plenty of things to do for a memorable getaway.

For example, one of the most popular tourist attractions is the Vasa Museum, which showcases an impressively preserved 17th-century ship that sank in 1628. Afterward, you can wander around Gamla Stan. This medieval island is packed with all kinds of famous landmarks worth visiting, such as the Royal Palace, Nobel Prize Museum, and Stortorget.

In addition to this, the city has an excellent public transportation network. This makes getting around the city and maximising your limited time easy. So, if you’re ready to visit the Swedish capital, consider staying at Nobis Hotel Stockholm. The 5-star hotel is centrally located and provides guests with everything they need for a lovely stay.

Tallinn, Estonia

From Roshni at The Wanderlust Within

The medieval city of Tallinn in Estonia is a lesser visited gem in Europe and one of the continent’s newest capitals. With easy access by plane (and even ferry from Helsinki), and incredibly affordable prices it is one of the best places for a European city break. Located along the Baltic Coast, Tallinn is often visited from other major cities in the area like Riga in Latvia, Vilnius in Lithuania or Helsinki in Finland.

The Old Town is very walkable and is one of the best preserved, as it was nearly completely untouched by the war so is great for history buffs. There is also a beautiful coastline that most people don’t know about, that is located only 10 minutes by bus from the city centre. Here you can try surfing or windsurfing lessons or simply sunbathe on the sandy beaches of Pirita. There are also plenty of walking and cycling trails located in the forest next door to the beach, so this a great European city break for culture and nature.

Stay at the Rixwell Collection Savoy Boutique Hotel

Verona, Italy

From HH Lifestyle Travel

Romeo & Juliet is only a fraction of what Verona has to offer. Why not take in an opera at an actual Roman arena? Or take a cooking class to discover more about this lovely city. Venice is the tourist hotspot, but I encourage you to include Verona in your itinerary.

Take a walk or funicular up to Castel San Pietro, for breathtaking views over the city. Wander along the Adige River and admire the many bridges of different styles. Have drinks on Piazza delle Erbe and watch the world go by and markets bustle.

Hotel options include Hotel Leopardi (great for if you are on an Italian road trip), or the central Hotel NH Collection Palazzo Verona.

Zagreb, Croatia

From Natali at She’s Abroad Again

Zagreb, Croatia is one of the most underrated European capitals. The city is full of culture and history, with the architecture and parks in the city center that remind you of Vienna. Unlike most other European capitals, Zagreb was never the seat of a monarchy, so you won’t find castles and palaces in the city. On the other hand, you’ll find a charming city center, cobblestone streets of the old town and an impressive gothic style Cathedral.

A weekend in Zagreb is the perfect time to see all the main highlights and even squeeze in a short day trip to the nearby town of Samobor or a hike to the iconic Sljeme mountain. A new attraction in the city is the Sljeme cable car, so you don’t even have to hike for an incredible view over the city and the region!

Zagreb is a large city, but most attractions are located within walking distance of the city center. If your accommodation is further from the city center, public transport is cheap and reliable, with frequent trams running through the city. 

Hotel Dubrovnik is the iconic hotel on the main square, perfect for those who want to be in the center of the action. If you’re on a budget, Zagreb has plenty of hostels to choose from. Swanky Mint is just a short walk from the main square.

City breaks interspersed into road trips is my preferred way to see Europe and the USA!
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All photos & content © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with a Canon DSLR T3i Rebel + an iPhoneX.