City Breaks – Weekend Getaways, Last Minute Deals & Top Destinations

City break holidays are the perfect way to inject excitement, culture, and new experiences into a short getaway. Whether it’s a long weekend or a spontaneous midweek escape, exploring a vibrant city gives you the chance to see iconic landmarks, taste new cuisines, and soak up the local atmosphere—all in just a few days.

What makes city breaks so enjoyable is their variety. One moment you could be wandering through a historic old town, the next sipping coffee in a trendy rooftop bar. From world-class museums and buzzing markets to hidden alleys and striking architecture, there’s always something to discover. City breaks suit every kind of traveller—whether you love art and culture, shopping and nightlife, or simply want to stroll the streets with no plan at all.

Europe is a treasure trove of unforgettable city break destinations. Paris remains a classic, offering timeless elegance, charming cafés, and iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre. Barcelona blends beach and city life, with Gaudí’s masterpieces and buzzing tapas bars. Amsterdam’s canals, Copenhagen’s clean design, and Prague’s fairy-tale architecture offer charm in every corner. If you’re looking for energy and edge, head to Berlin or Lisbon, both packed with culture, creativity, and character. For romance, history, and unbeatable gelato, Rome is always a winner.

This section of the site is your hub for planning the ultimate city break. From choosing where to go and when, to finding the best walking tours, transport options, and boutique hotels, we’re here to help you build an unforgettable urban adventure. Whether you’re escaping for a weekend or building a multi-city itinerary, you’ll find all the tools and inspiration you need right here. Fast-paced, fun, and full of flavour—your next city break starts now.

Paris, France – Romance, Rooftops & Riverside Magic

Few cities are as instantly recognisable—or as effortlessly stylish—as Paris. The French capital isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. It’s that first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, the quiet clink of coffee cups in a corner café, and the joy of getting wonderfully lost down a cobbled backstreet lined with shuttered windows and the scent of fresh pastries.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or the fiftieth, Paris always finds a way to surprise and enchant.

Start your adventure in the 1st arrondissement, home to iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and Pont des Arts. From there, wander across the Seine to the Latin Quarter, filled with bohemian charm, lively bistros, and tucked-away bookshops (don’t miss Shakespeare & Company).

Head north to Montmartre, once the haunt of Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec, now a dreamy hilltop neighbourhood with cobbled streets, hidden cafés, and the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica overlooking the city.

And of course, no trip to Paris is complete without standing beneath the Eiffel Tower, strolling the Champs-Élysées, or admiring the stained glass at Notre-Dame (still stunning, even in restoration).

Paris is best explored slowly. Sip coffee in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, picnic along the Canal Saint-Martin, or glide down the Seine on a sunset river cruise. Art lovers can spend days between the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou. Fashionistas will adore browsing the boutiques of Le Marais, and foodies? Prepare for heaven.

Feast on buttery croissants, cheese platters, steak frites, and too many macarons. Don’t forget to try escargot—just once. Pair it all with a glass of French wine and you're living the Parisian dream.

Paris is many things: romantic, elegant, artistic, and delightfully indulgent. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, take it all in, and fall just a little bit in love—whether with a view, a pastry, or a moment you didn’t expect.

Perfect for couples, solo travellers, and culture-hungry explorers, Paris is a timeless city break that feels like stepping into a dream—one cobbled street, glass of wine, and whispered bonjour at a time.

Pack your stripes, your appetite, and your camera—Paris is always a good idea.

Rome, Italy – Ruins, Romance & Ridiculously Good Pasta

If cities had a greatest hits album, Rome would be playing on repeat. This is a place where every corner has a story, every piazza begs for a photo, and every meal feels like it was prepared by someone’s passionate nonna. The Eternal City isn’t just about monuments—it’s about moments. And once you’re here, they come thick and fast.

Rome is dramatic, delicious, and delightfully chaotic. And that’s exactly why we love it.

Let’s start with the big hitters: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill—a trio of jaw-dropping ruins that plunge you straight into ancient Rome. You’ll walk in the footsteps of gladiators, emperors, and (let’s be honest) thousands of Instagrammers.

From there, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, and marvel at the ceiling of the Pantheon—a structure that’s stood for nearly 2,000 years. It’s like walking through the world’s most beautiful open-air museum.

Head across the Tiber River to Trastevere, a boho-chic neighbourhood brimming with personality, street musicians, and candlelit trattorias. And don’t miss Vatican City—home to St. Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and enough Renaissance masterpieces to leave your neck permanently tilted upwards.

Rome is a city made for wandering. Grab a gelato and stroll through Piazza Navona, browse vintage shops in Monti, or take a sunset walk along the Tiber River. History buffs can dive deep into museum collections, while food lovers can sign up for pasta-making classes and local wine tastings.

Oh, and the food. From carbonara and cacio e pepe to crispy Roman-style pizza, every bite is better than the last. Add espresso, cannoli, and aperitivo in a sun-drenched piazza, and you’ll wonder if you’ve ever actually lived before this trip.

Rome is grand yet gritty, chaotic yet charming, and filled with life at every turn. One minute you’re standing in a cathedral, the next you’re sipping a spritz next to a 1st-century column. It’s the kind of place where your feet get sore, your camera gets full, and your heart gets completely swept away.

If you love history, romance, food, and that joyful buzz of a city alive with stories, then Rome is calling—and trust us, you’ll want to answer.

Barcelona, Spain – Beach Days, Bold Architecture & Tapas-Fuelled Nights

Few cities balance culture and coastline like Barcelona. One minute you’re wandering through a Gothic cathedral, the next you’re sipping sangria on the beach—and somehow, both feel perfectly normal. This Catalan capital is a colourful, creative, and utterly captivating city break that blends beach life, historic charm, and world-famous flair.

If you want sunshine with substance, and siestas balanced by sangria, Barcelona delivers—every time.

Start with La Sagrada Família, the city’s iconic (and still unfinished) basilica by architectural genius Antoni Gaudí. Its twisting towers and surreal facades will leave you speechless. From there, head to Park Güell—a fairytale of mosaics, curved benches, and views over the city.

In the Gothic Quarter, get lost in narrow medieval streets filled with hidden courtyards, tapas bars, and quirky boutiques. Stroll down La Rambla—Barcelona’s bustling tree-lined promenade—and stop at La Boqueria Market for fresh juices, jamón, and a rainbow of tapas to snack your way through the day.

Don't miss the artsy energy of El Raval and the beachy, bohemian vibe of Barceloneta, where sunbathers and seafood lovers come together with sea views and salty breezes.

Barcelona is made for mixing it up. Spend your mornings exploring Museu Picasso or cycling along the beachfront, and your afternoons sunbathing on Sant Sebastià Beach or sipping vermouth at a rooftop bar in El Born.

Catch a FC Barcelona match at Camp Nou if you're a football fan—or simply admire the architecture of this world-famous stadium. Love the nightlife? Barcelona comes alive after dark with cocktail lounges, live flamenco shows, and late-night clubs that don’t get going until midnight.

And the food? Let’s just say, come hungry. Feast on patatas bravas, calamari, bombas, and grilled prawns, all washed down with cold beer or cava. Finish with churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, because… why not?

Barcelona is sunny, stylish, and packed with personality. It’s a city where creativity spills into the streets, where every meal feels like a celebration, and where history and hedonism live in harmony.

Whether you’re in it for the Gaudí, the galleries, the beaches, or the bars, Barcelona leaves you energised, inspired, and already planning your return.

Amsterdam, Netherlands – Canals, Culture & Cool Café Vibes

Charming, quirky, and effortlessly cool, Amsterdam is a city that knows how to impress. With its canal-side houses, historic bridges, world-class museums, and cosy cafés, it offers the perfect mix of laid-back living and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're cycling through cobbled streets or cruising along the canals, every moment feels like a page from a European storybook.

This isn’t just a city break—it’s an experience you’ll want to slow down and savour.

Start your visit in the historic Centrum, where 17th-century townhouses and charming bridges form a web of walkable canals. Wander through the Jordaan District, once working-class, now filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and some of the city’s best brunch spots.

Make your way to Museumplein, the cultural heart of Amsterdam, home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum of modern art. Don’t forget to stop at the famous I Amsterdam sign—yes, it’s touristy, but we all love a photo op.

Pay a visit to the moving and powerful Anne Frank House, then stroll to Vondelpark for a moment of green space and people-watching.

Rent a bike—because in Amsterdam, cycling isn’t just transport, it’s a way of life. Join the locals and pedal along the canals, stop for pancakes at a canal-side café, and explore quieter neighbourhoods like De Pijp and Oost.

Take a canal cruise at sunset—there’s nothing like gliding through the water as the city lights begin to glow. Or hop on a boat bar if you fancy drinks with your sightseeing.

For a deeper dive into Dutch culture, visit the Heineken Experience, the Royal Palace, or explore Amsterdam’s edgier side with a guided tour of the Red Light District—equal parts fascinating and eye-opening.

And yes, you’ll want to eat. Try stroopwafels, bitterballen, Dutch cheese, and Indonesian rijsttafel (a colonial-era feast of small dishes). Amsterdam’s food scene is as eclectic as its streets.

Amsterdam is relaxed but full of life, historic yet progressive, and compact enough to explore on foot or bike without ever getting bored. It’s a city that invites you to take your time, be curious, and enjoy the details.

From canals to culture, pancakes to picturesque streets—Amsterdam is the city break that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Prague, Czech Republic – Fairytales, Cobblestones & A Pint with a View

Step into a city where medieval charm meets bohemian spirit—Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a cultural gem that feels like it was plucked from a storybook. With Gothic spires, baroque domes, and cobbled lanes leading to secret courtyards, it’s no wonder this place is called “The City of a Hundred Spires.”

But don’t be fooled by its old-world appearance—Prague knows how to have fun. This is where beer is cheaper than water, where every corner holds a surprise, and where history and cool collide in perfect harmony.

Start in Old Town Square, the beating heart of the city. Here, you’ll find the Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, and lively markets surrounded by colourful façades. Every hour, a small crowd gathers to watch the clock’s mechanical show—it's charmingly kitsch, and yes, you’ll want to film it.

From there, wander across the iconic Charles Bridge, lined with statues and musicians, and make your way up to Prague Castle. It’s the largest ancient castle complex in the world and home to the breathtaking St. Vitus Cathedral.

Don’t miss the quirky Lennon Wall, a living symbol of peace, love, and graffiti, or the tranquil Kampa Island—perfect for riverside strolls and quiet photo moments.

Explore the historic Jewish Quarter (Josefov), visit the stunning Library at the Clementinum, or take a river cruise along the Vltava for a fresh perspective of Prague’s skyline.

At night, dive into Prague’s buzzing nightlife. Whether it’s a candlelit cellar wine bar, a lively beer hall, or a rooftop cocktail lounge, the city doesn’t disappoint. For something memorable, visit U Fleků, a brewery and beer hall that’s been serving pints since 1499.

Foodies can feast on Czech classics like goulash, svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce), and sweet trdelník pastries. Oh, and did we mention the beer? Try it all—from dark lagers to crisp pilsners, often brewed right on-site.

Prague is a masterclass in magic and mystery, a place where fairy tale meets funky, and history whispers from every stone. It’s affordable, walkable, and bursting with charm. Whether you're watching the sunrise from Charles Bridge or clinking glasses in a medieval tavern, Prague feels like stepping into another world.

Pack your walking shoes, your camera, and your appetite—Prague is waiting.

Lisbon, Portugal – Hills, Trams & Sunshine-Soaked Soul

Built across seven hills and kissed by Atlantic breezes, Lisbon is a city that sings. With its pastel buildings, golden light, and echo of fado music drifting through cobbled streets, Portugal’s capital delivers a city break full of warmth, colour, and character.

Lisbon doesn’t try to dazzle with grandeur—it charms you slowly, like a long conversation over a glass of vinho verde. It’s relaxed, effortlessly cool, and full of surprises waiting at the top of every hill.

Start in Alfama, the city’s oldest district. Lose yourself in a tangle of narrow alleyways where locals hang laundry between balconies and the scent of grilled sardines fills the air. Head up to the Castelo de São Jorge for panoramic views across the terracotta rooftops and the glittering Tagus River.

Hop on the iconic Tram 28, a rickety yellow carriage that winds through historic neighbourhoods like Graça, Baixa, and Estrela—you’ll get a sightseeing tour and a bit of a thrill ride in one.

Wander the grand squares of Praça do Comércio and Rossio, then cross over to Bairro Alto, the bohemian district where the streets come alive after dark with live music, buzzing bars, and endless rooftop terraces.

Explore Belém, where Portugal’s Age of Discovery set sail. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the striking Monument to the Discoveries. Don’t forget to stop at Pastéis de Belém—home of the original pastel de nata. One bite of this creamy custard tart and you’ll understand the hype.

For a modern twist, head to the LX Factory, a revamped industrial complex filled with street art, indie shops, creative restaurants, and rooftop views.

Fancy a beach escape? Hop on a short train to Cascais or Estoril—both offer sandy beaches, seafood shacks, and that laid-back coastal charm.

Lisbon is sunny, soulful, and full of contrast. It blends old and new, quiet cafés and buzzing nightlife, faded grandeur and fresh creativity—all wrapped in a climate that practically guarantees good weather.

Whether you’re riding a tram into the sunset, sharing grilled octopus by the sea, or just enjoying the city’s golden glow, Lisbon captures your heart with every step.

Bring your appetite, your curiosity, and your best walking shoes—Lisbon is calling.

Budapest, Hungary – Thermal Baths, Grand Boulevards & Ruin Bar Revelry

Straddling the Danube River with majestic bridges, steamy spas, and a skyline full of spires and domes, Budapest is a city that blends imperial elegance with edgy, urban cool. It’s got one foot in the past, another in the present—and it knows how to throw a seriously good night out in between.

Whether you're soaking in hot springs by day or dancing in ruin bars by night, Budapest delivers a city break with a unique blend of culture, comfort, and charisma.

The city is split into two: historic Buda on the west bank and vibrant Pest on the east. Start in Buda, where Castle Hill rises above the river, offering cobbled lanes, panoramic viewpoints, and highlights like Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the fairy-tale towers of Fisherman’s Bastion.

Then cross the iconic Chain Bridge to explore Pest, where wide boulevards, ornate architecture, and lively cafés set the scene. Here you’ll find the grand Hungarian Parliament Building—one of Europe’s most stunning—and the bustling Jewish Quarter, now home to the city’s trendiest bars, restaurants, and art spaces.

No visit to Budapest is complete without a soak in one of its legendary thermal baths. Head to Széchenyi Baths for outdoor pools surrounded by neo-Baroque architecture, or visit Gellért Baths for Art Nouveau interiors and relaxation that feels like royalty.

Take a Danube river cruise at sunset for a magical view of the city lit up. Or ride the historic Metro Line 1—Europe’s oldest underground line—for a quirky, time-travelling experience.

For nightlife, don’t miss the ruin bars—abandoned buildings turned into eclectic, graffiti-covered watering holes. Szimpla Kert is the original and still the wildest.

History lovers can visit Heroes’ Square, House of Terror Museum, or the haunting Shoes on the Danube memorial. And foodies? Tuck into goulash, chimney cake, langos, and paprika-dusted everything—with a glass of local Tokaji wine or pálinka to wash it down.

Budapest is rich in history, full of surprises, and easier on the wallet than most European capitals. It’s grand without being pretentious, lively without being overwhelming, and effortlessly cool.

Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or dance ‘til dawn, Budapest has all the ingredients for the perfect city break—just add you.

Vienna, Austria – Palaces, Pastries & Classical Cool

Step into Vienna, where grand imperial history meets stylish café culture and classical music echoes through opulent halls. The Austrian capital isn’t just elegant—it’s effortlessly refined, blending Baroque beauty with a modern, creative edge. If you’re dreaming of a city break filled with charm, history, and just the right amount of whipped cream, Vienna will sweep you off your feet—probably with a waltz.

This is where Mozart meets minimalist design, and where sipping coffee is considered a cultural experience.

Begin at the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Wander its lavish halls, explore the perfectly manicured gardens, and climb to the Gloriette for sweeping city views. Prefer city-centre royalty? Head to the Hofburg Palace, still home to Austria’s president and packed with imperial grandeur.

Stroll through the Innere Stadt, Vienna’s old town, where horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Take in the grandeur of the Ringstrasse, a circular boulevard lined with architectural gems like the Austrian Parliament, State Opera House, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Catch a concert at the Vienna State Opera or enjoy a more intimate performance at one of the city’s many classical music halls—after all, this is Mozart’s hometown.

Sip a melange (Viennese coffee with milk) in a traditional kaffeehaus, where you can linger for hours reading newspapers or people-watching. Try Café Central, once frequented by Freud, Trotsky, and Klimt, or Demel, for a slice of the legendary Sachertorte.

For a contemporary twist, visit the MuseumsQuartier, a buzzing complex of modern art galleries, design shops, and courtyard bars. And if you’re travelling in December, Vienna’s Christmas markets are pure magic—think twinkling lights, mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts galore.

Feeling regal? Dress up for a ball, or go low-key with a river cruise on the Danube. Vienna does both equally well.

Vienna is elegant but accessible, cultured but cool, and polished without ever feeling stuffy. It’s a city where art and architecture collide with cake and conversation, offering a break that’s rich in flavour and full of soul.

If you love slow mornings, beautiful buildings, timeless music, and apple strudel with style—Vienna is calling your name.

Kraków, Poland – Medieval Charm, Hidden Courtyards & Hearty Eats

If you’re after a city break that delivers culture, history, atmosphere, and incredible value, look no further than Kraków. This southern Polish city is a masterclass in charm—where medieval streets whisper stories, cosy cafés tempt you in with warm pastries, and every corner feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Compact, walkable, and bursting with soul, Kraków blends old-world elegance with youthful energy. It’s welcoming, affordable, and guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Start in Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest medieval market square. It’s a stunning open space surrounded by colourful townhouses, buzzing cafés, and the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica, where a trumpet sounds hourly from the highest tower. In the centre, you’ll find the Cloth Hall, once a trading hub, now home to local crafts and souvenirs.

Wander into the charming Old Town, a maze of cobbled streets, gothic architecture, and hidden courtyards. For a panoramic view, climb Wawel Castle—a royal hilltop complex offering history, art, and sweeping views over the Vistula River.

Just a short stroll away is Kazimierz, the city’s historic Jewish Quarter, now a vibrant cultural hub packed with vintage shops, art galleries, food trucks, and candlelit bars. Here, history and hipster blend beautifully.

Take a guided tour of the haunting Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, a powerful and sobering experience just outside the city. Also worth a day trip: the surreal Wieliczka Salt Mine, where underground chapels, chandeliers, and sculptures are all carved entirely from salt.

Back in town, tuck into Polish comfort food like pierogi (dumplings), żurek (sour rye soup), and placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes). Wash it all down with a chilled Polish beer or a shot of cherry vodka—Na zdrowie!

At night, Kraków comes alive with live jazz, quirky speakeasies, and rooftop bars overlooking church towers and twinkling lights.

Kraków is romantic, reflective, and full of character. It’s a city where every building tells a story, every meal warms the soul, and every walk turns into an adventure. Affordable and authentic, it’s the kind of place that quietly becomes one of your favourites.

Whether you’re into castles, culture, cuisine or just wandering with no plan, Kraków is the city break you didn’t know you needed—until now.

Edinburgh, Scotland – Castles, Cobblestones & a Wee Dram of Magic

Dramatic, historic, and just a little bit haunted, Edinburgh is a city break with serious atmosphere. Set across craggy hills and crowned by a castle, Scotland’s capital is a storybook come to life—where ancient streets meet modern charm, and every turn feels like stepping into another chapter.

Whether you’re here for whisky, ghost tours, or a festival-fuelled adventure, Edinburgh blends heritage and edge like nowhere else.

Begin your journey on the Royal Mile, a cobbled stretch that runs through the heart of the Old Town, linking Edinburgh Castle to the grand Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you’ll pass historic buildings, kilt shops, and hidden alleyways known as “closes,” each with its own story.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an ancient volcanic rock, offers stunning views and centuries of Scottish history. At the other end of the mile, Holyrood Palace gives you a glimpse into royal life—past and present.

Cross over to the New Town for Georgian elegance, designer boutiques, and a thriving food and drink scene, especially along George Street and Thistle Street.

Climb Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano overlooking the city, for one of the best panoramic views in the UK. Fancy something spookier? Take a ghost tour through the underground vaults or join a graveyard walk—Edinburgh is famously haunted (in the best possible way).

Literature fans can trace the footsteps of J.K. Rowling, who wrote the early Harry Potter books here. Stop in at The Elephant House Café, or visit Greyfriars Kirkyard—you might spot a few names that sound familiar.

Visit National Museum of Scotland, sip whisky in a candlelit pub, or dive into local dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties (don’t knock it till you’ve tried it) or a battered Mars bar for the brave.

Time your visit with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, the world’s largest arts festival, or come in winter for Hogmanay, one of the best New Year’s parties on the planet.

Edinburgh is brooding yet beautiful, refined yet wild, and packed with character at every turn. It’s where Gothic spires meet golden sunsets, and ghost stories are told over pints of local ale.

Whether you're chasing history, festivals, or folklore, Edinburgh delivers with heart, humour, and a touch of Highland magic.