21 Best European City Breaks You Need to Add to Your Travel List Now

This complete list of best European city break destinations will provide plenty of inspiration to get your fill of culture, cuisine and places to unwind – you are sure to find the place to add to the top of your travel wishlist.

Remember what it was like to walk the cobblestone streets of a new city, admiring the architecture and incredible landmarks, with the smell of local delicacies on the wind making your stomach rumble?

Chances are, you plan to take a trip like this once restrictions and safety returns to normal. The question is…

Which European city break destination has the most to offer you? 

Are you keen on a foodie break, trying to fit as much as possible into 3-5 meals? Or maybe you want to immerse yourself in nature, and plan travels to a city that offers the chance for exploration and beautiful scenery nearby.

Whatever your preference is, Europe has the perfect city to match it. 

The multicultural city of London is one of the most well-rounded cities you’ll find.

We might be slightly biased here since it’s our home city… but there’s rarely a place that can provide such a high standard in art, architecture, food, fashion, sport and more.

There are countless museums and theatres for art lovers to explore. The architecture is full of history and beauty, from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Buckingham Palace to the Shard.

The variety of cuisines you can experience in London is so diverse that you’ll definitely find something to love. Check out our list of the best things to do in London for more ideas!

3 reasons to go: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, sheer quantity of excellent restaurants. 

Best time to visit: March – April and September – November

Read our articles on London:
– The Ultimate London Travel Guide from a Londoner
– 25 Best Things to Do in London
– London 4 Day Itinerary

Does Dubrovnik merit its name as the “Pearl of Adriatic”? Well I’ll put it this way…  If Game of Thrones (with its many millions of production budget) chooses a real place to base a location on, it has to be pretty special.

King’s Landing/Dubrovnik’s views from the cliff it sits on fully back up this choice. This position and the old picturesque limestone streets are the exact reasons why it features in so many medieval-esque shows.

The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and super rich in culture and history too!

3 reasons to go: Location for Game of Thrones’ King’s Landing, gorgeous beaches, cliff views.

Best time to visit: August and October – June

“The Floating City” of Venice is arguably one of the most picturesque European city break spots, and every corner and canal prove to be awe-inspiring.

This unique city is surrounded by charming canals and a multitude of bridges. No wonder it’s a popular tourist destination, and inspired so many artists.

Discover the extraordinary city with a romantic gondola ride and taste the delightful Venetian cuisine of fresh seafood such as Sarde in Saor and Mołéche.

Also, if there was one thing to come out of the pandemic, it’s that the lack of cruise ships has meant the canals have never been more quiet, clear and devoid of tourists. We went in August and we’d highly recommend a trip when you can.

3 reasons to go: Romantic gondola rides, the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square.  

Best time to visit: March-May and September – November 

Read our articles on Venice:
– 16 Things You Need to Know Before Going to Venice Post-Lockdown
– How to Get Around Venice
– 3 Days in Venice Post-Lockdown

Stockholm consists of 14 islands which have the amazing benefit of giving this capital plenty of waterfront cityscape surrounded by photogenic architecture.

In the endless daylight during summertime, you can revel in outdoor activities at the beaches or in the greenery. The simple task of taking the subway can also be turned into an artistic experience as you can view unique artworks at 90% of the city’s subway stations – dubbed the ‘World’s longest art exhibit’.

If you are partial to a relaxing break during a long day, you’ll love Fika (Swedish for coffee break). This Swedish ritual gives you some time to pause and reflect with a steaming cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Generally, the Swedes have things figured out so you’ll be in safe hands for your European city break!

3 reasons to go: Island cityscape, long summer days, relaxing with Swedish coffee culture. 

Best time to visit: May – September

You’ll struggle to find someone with a bad word to say about Seville.

The reason for this becomes clear as soon as you arrive in the city centre. In a word, the city is magical. La Giralda Cathedral and Real de Alcazar gardens take centre stage, but the reality is there is so much to do here.

Explore everything the city has to offer from sultry flamenco performances, wonderful food and the history behind a blend of architectural designs from Moorish, Gothic to Renaissance.

For a relaxing day time activity, paddle around in the canal to see Plaza de España from the water. The relentlessly hot weather also makes it the perfect location for a winter escape. Just don’t go in August!

3 reasons to go: La Giralda Catedral, Real Alcazar Gardens, unbelievable weather. 

Best time to visit: All year, except June-August

“The Eternal City” of Rome is an unbelievably fascinating place. It’s almost unfair how many spectacular landmarks you can find here.

When you add the parade of excellent pizza, pasta and gelato places to nourish your soul, Rome becomes a pretty hard city to top. Rome’s location in the centre of Italy also makes it a great base or “jumping off point” for a tour of this country.

If you haven’t been yet, add Rome to your list. If you’ve been already, maybe it’s time to return? One of our first trips together was Rome and the Amalfi Coast and it remains one of our best yet. 

3 reasons to go: The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum. 

Best time to visit: September – May

Whilst the canals in Venice are hard to top, Amsterdam gives an altogether different vibe.

Instead of a relentless tourist hotspot, Amsterdam is a unique city with a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere – it’s such an enjoyable experience to just walk, cycle, or cruise around, looking at the beautiful narrow buildings, brilliant museums and relishing in their quirkiness.

It’s the sort of place that would be perfect to live or study in (as long as you are good at dodging thousands of bicycles a day).

There are also many beautiful and unconventional sides of Amsterdam to explore – depending on your taste and how adventurous you are feeling. Party away with the exuberant nightlife (with totally legal weed) or enjoy a relaxing brunch spot made for food-lovers.

There is also a fascinating (and sobering) side to Amsterdam in the historic spots like Anne Frank’s House.

3 reasons to go: Get adventurous (party, red-light district, weed bar etc), beautiful canals, Anne Frank’s house. 

Best time to visit: April – May and September – November

The city of Paris needs no introduction, as I’m sure you have all heard of the “most romantic city” in the world.

The beautiful architecture (think sparkly Eiffel Tower at night or a walk around Champs-Elysees and Arc de Triomphe) will leave you breathless. The Louvre Museum and hundreds of other museums will also provide plenty to cure a thirst for art.

For a slower pace you can sip coffee, people watch and live the iconic Parisian pleasure at a cafe. There are also over 70 Michelin starred restaurants in the city for those who love a fancy meal. You won’t be running out of things to do, that’s for sure.

3 reasons to go: The Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées and shopping, fine dining.  

Best time to visit: June – October

Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities (Europe’s oldest capital), with a history and influence that is almost impossible to match.

Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, Athens is the birthplace of democracy. Its history is full of brilliant minds like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and there are a wealth of incredible buildings like the Acropolis and Parthenon to transport you back in time.

When you are done exploring the ancient ruins, the mediterranean climate is also perfect for relaxing at the beach. Due to the unfortunate financial crisis, the city is also affordable compared to other European capitals.

3 reasons to go: Greek food (obviously), ruins like the Parthenon and Acropolis, beaches and weather

Best time to visit: March – May and September – November

Florence is not only home to countless Renaissance masterpieces – it is a masterpiece itself.

A visit to Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, the Uffizi and the Duomo Cathedral will make this point perfectly clear. Florence is also the perfect romantic destination, proved by the spectacular view of the city at sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo.

The rolling hills of Tuscany are there to greet anyone who wants to explore outside the city, but for everyone else, you have your fill of world-famous Tuscan food and wine to work your way through. The sandwiches at Osteria All’Antico Vinaio are also pretty special.

3 reasons to go: Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, Cathedral of florence, tuscan food and wine. 

Best time to visit: April – June and September – October

Barcelona is far from a hidden gem, but this popularity doesn’t make the city any less special.

La Sagrada Familia will undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful and unique buildings you’ll ever see, and, if you appreciate art, Gaudi’s other inspired landmarks are a feast for your eyes.

The people of Barcelona are also fiercely proud of their Catalan roots, setting Barcelona apart from its neighbour cities in more than just language spoken.

All in all, there is so much culture here to please everyone, whether you are looking for the beach, mountains, art, football or food. 

3 reasons to go: La Sagrada Familia, Camp Nou, views from Tibidabo

Best time to visit: May – June and September

There is a very clear reason why you would choose Brussels for a long weekend destination – the food and drink. Mussels, chocolate, chips, waffles, beer and many more staples are absolutely excellent in Brussels.

For these reasons, maybe it’s a good thing that there aren’t too many things to see after the Grand Palace.

After all, you don’t want to feel guilty you can’t really move in your food and beer coma… plus it’s really challenging going anywhere when you are being tempted into every chocolatier for a sample.

3 reasons to go: Chocolates, Belgian beer, the Grand Place

Best time to visit: May – October

The Danish capital Copenhagen is known as ‘the happiest city in the world’ – how cool is that?!

Home to the World’s Best Restaurant ‘Noma‘, you can experience the unconventional Danish cuisine, or try your hand at “Fællesspisning” (aka eating together) and dine with the locals Viking-style.

For a more family-fun activity, visit the world’s second-oldest amusement park which inspired fairytale settings for Walt Disney and Hans C. Andersen at Tivoli Gardens. And don’t forget Copenhagen’s iconic landmark Nyhavn, a 17th-century harbour lined with gorgeous multi-coloured houses. 

3 reasons to go: The amusement park that inspired Walt Disney, Danish cuisine, friendly locals. 

Best time to visit: March – May and June – August

Sometimes cities look like they have dropped straight out of a fairy tale.

Prague is a great example of just such an affordable European city break place (as long as you can look beyond the occasional boozy stag-do).

Only at Prague Castle can you walk through the largest castle complex in the world. Charles Bridge is also a perfect place for a romantic stroll, and the Prague Astronomical Clock is unbelievably intricate and impressive. 

If you love seeing historical architecture from different eras, then Prague also has you covered. Discover architecture styles such as Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance.

When it comes to drinking, Prague also gives Brussels a run for its money, being the biggest beer consumer capital of the world.

3 reasons to go: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, the Astronomical Clock

Best time to visit: May – September

The capital city of Germany is a fascinating place.

So much in history has happened here, and those events have shaped the world we now live in. The Berlin Wall, Holocaust Memorial and Jewish Museum are just some of the landmarks that could occupy days of your time.

However, there’s so much more to Berlin than just the remnants of these historical conflicts. The Christmas markets make it a prime place to go in Winter, but generally the city and food (think Bratwurst and beer) are perfect for a summer city break. 

3 reasons to go: The Berlin Wall, Holocaust Memorial, and Jewish Museum.

Best time to visit: May – September

Porto, and especially the food here, really took us by surprise. I can’t remember the last time we went somewhere and every meal blew our socks off. Porto is the kind of place I’d imagine going for lunch… if you know, I was super loaded, or travel restrictions meant I could actually leave the country.

If you fancy a foodie weekend full of delicious seafood, super high-quality Port or red wine, look no further than this gem in Portugal. Who else loves going on a European city break for all the different food?

3 reasons to go: The bookstore which inspired the library from Harry Potter, delicious seafood, wine and port.

Best time to visit: May – September

The beauty of Budapest on the Danube River is matched only by how interesting its history is. (Fun fact: this city was previously two cities, Buda and Pest).

Situated in Central Europe, you get a great blend of Western and Eastern culture around every corner. The famous natural mineral water springs also make it a fantastic long weekend destination to relax and rejuvenate.

Students will be in their element with the affordable and exciting nightlife, while couples can enjoy romantic settings and relax in natural spas. It’s the perfect European city break location.

3 reasons to go: Natural mineral water spring baths, beautiful panoramic view of the city, the fascinating history. 

Best time to visit: March – May and September – November

You can feel like you are stepping back in time in Cambridge.

It’s a beautiful place, surrounded by gorgeous architecture, greenery and water. It has an extensive history for discoveries and learnings, as well as being the home to the world-renowned University of Cambridge and multitudes of Nobel Prize winners.

Discover the many styles of Cambridge’s architecture spanned over centuries as you step on the cobblestone street and ponder about the lives of many scholars that walked through the same grounds.

A trip here also wouldn’t be complete without partaking in the ultimate Cambridge activity of “punting”, a water transport similar to a gondola and view the colleges from the river.

3 reasons to go: Beautiful university campus tours, punting in the river, Botanic Gardens

Best time to visit: May – September

Proud winner of the 2013 European Capital of Culture, the buzzing port city of Marseille is France’s oldest city.

Full of stunning Mediterranean-esque beaches, the city is also a melting pot of cultures – this is clear from the unique blend of African and European cultures at every corner. Before you leave, don’t forget to try the local delicacy Bouillabaisse and explore both modern and ancient buildings such as Notre Dame de la Garde, Fort Saint-Jean and Jardin des Vestiges. 

3 reasons to go: Amazing art and cultural spaces, the blend of African and European cultures, beautiful beaches.

Best time to visit: April – June and August – November

Situated on the figurative doorstep of Mount Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast, the area outside of Naples is already pretty awesome.

However the city itself also offers so much to fill the senses, especially now it’s a lot safer (though you’d still need to remain vigilant when travelling to new locations).

First and foremost, Naples claims to offer the ‘authentic’ taste of Italy, with fewer tourists in comparison to other famous Italian cities such as Rome and Florence.

You can truly experience how the local lives and eats (pasta, pizza, pasta, repeat) without many of the crowds you might find in Rome or Florence… . If you love Italian food, Naples needs to be on your travel list.

3 reasons to go: Pizza, Chiostri di Santa Chiara, base for trips to Pompeii or amalfi coast

Best time to visit: April – May and September – October

Bath was the original UK wellbeing destination in Roman times…with a big focus on pleasure and relaxation.

You can even bathe in the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain at Thermae Bath Spa. View Bath’s iconic honey-coloured Georgian architecture at the Royal Crescent and the Circus – and feel as if you walk straight into Jane Austen’s novel.

Literature lovers/Austen fans will love exploring The Jane Austen Centre. For a breathtaking view of the city, climb Bath Abbey’s Tower.

3 reasons to go: The Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey’s Tower and relaxing at the Thermae Bath Spa.

Best time to visit: September – October

Check our Plan Your Trip section to get yourself to one of these cities, or we’ve also compiled the best beach destinations if you’d like a more relaxing holiday.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Wanischa Sirivarangkun

Wanischa is a big believer in the importance of wellbeing and uses her experience with mental health challenges to inspire others to live their happiest lives. She's also a self-confessed foodie. Currently she works as a Senior Marketing Manager at The Unseen.

Latest posts by Wanischa Sirivarangkun (see all)

• A Bangkokian’s Ultimate Guide to 17 Best Things to Do in Bangkok - May 17, 2022
• A Thai’s 10 Top Restaurants & Cafes in Chiang Mai - April 9, 2022
• 13 Mindfulness Gifts To Promote Calm and Self-Care in 2024 - December 9, 2021