Fancy a weekend getaway but don’t know where to go? Overwhelmed with the number of choices and cities in Europe? In my opinion, these are the four best city breaks, all within a 2-hour flight of the UK. They’re also perfect for a weekend away all year round, so don’t feel like you have to wait until those summer prices go up!
Barcelona
Barcelona really has it all. From city life to the hills, to the beach, Barcelona offers a diverse range of things to do and see. With Gaudi architecture and a bustling atmosphere, there’s always excitement in Barcelona. Top sights include Park Güell, Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas Ciutadella Park and the Gothic Quarter. As well as sights, Barcelona has an incredible food scene. If you’re looking for fresh fruit and vegetables, head to the Mercado de la Boqueria. If you’re looking to try some authentic Spanish tapas visit Taller de Tapas. Other recommendations include Harry’s for a beautiful Italian experience and Boa Bao for delicious Thai food.
Edinburgh
If you’re looking for a UK weekend away, Edinburgh is the perfect choice. Edinburgh uniquely has a magical feel to it, an old city filled with lots of cobbled streets to explore. You can spend the entire weekend exploring hidden gems while you mooch around, grabbing a coffee at The Southern Cross café and strolling down the Royal Mile into Old Town. Notable sights include Edinburgh Castle, Victoria Street, Calton Hill, Royal Mile, and St James centre for a bit of shopping. As well as the sights, Edinburgh also offers wide range of delicious food. Try Chaophraya for some delicious Thai food with an amazing view of the castle of Café Andaluz for some Spanish tapas. If you’re thinking of staying for a bit longer, and fancy a day trip, Edinburgh is a short 50 minute train ride from Glasgow. Glasgow offers a much more contemporary vibe to Edinburgh, with lots of shopping and food to fill your day.
Budapest
Budapest uniquely offers a very different vibe to its surrounding European cities, a city bursting with life and culture. The city feels incredibly safe and boosts rich culture of history, from the Siege of Budapest in the second world war. The Hungarian capital is split into in to two halves, Buda and Pest both offering very different experiences. When visiting, Buda castle is a must, you can walk up to the top or hop onto a funicular for a quick ride. The view offers a stunning outlook of the other half of the city across the river Danube and the Hungarian parliament building. Make sure to visit the Szechenyi thermal spas, the Danube Promenade, St Stephens Basilica and Heroes’ square.
Vienna
Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever visited, filled with stunning white buildings and architecture. Vienna is full of art galleries, music and a rich history filled with philosophy and high society. If you’re looking to find out more about Vienna’s royal history, visit the Schönbrunn Palace. It’s filled with beautiful gardens, a zoo and was once home to the infamous Habsburg monarchy, with Mozart famously performing on the piano in the palace at just age 6. Other notable attractions include, The Danube, the Vienna Opera house, Hofburg Palace, St Stephens Cathedral and Schloss Belvedere. If the weather is warm enough, you can take a short train journey to Alte Donau where you can relax on the banks of the Danube and go swimming.