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From Porto to Prague, discover the proper European metropolis for a weekend getaway.
Planning a weekend getaway in Europe? I’ve obtained you coated. I’ve traveled throughout Europe, and I’ve discovered some implausible cities which might be excellent for a weekend journey. Belief me, these spots are tried and true favorites that you simply’ll love!
On this information, I’ll share my high 12 superb cities in Europe for a weekend journey. From vibrant capitals to charming smaller cities, these locations are perfect for a fast but fulfilling escape. Every metropolis presents one thing particular, and I’ll spotlight the must-see sights and hidden gems.
In case you’re into historical past, nightlife, or simply absorbing native vibes, there’s one thing right here for everybody. Let’s dive in and discover your subsequent weekend getaway.
Cities to go to in Europe for a weekend
Earlier than we dive into the checklist, let’s spotlight just a few standout cities from our choice. These are my private favorites for various causes and may enable you select the place to go first.
- General most stunning: Prague, Czech Republic
- Greatest meals scene: Bologna, Italy
- High nightlife: Barcelona, Spain
- Most stress-free: Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Greatest for historical past lovers: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Greatest coastal metropolis: Break up, Croatia
Let’s get began with our first metropolis on the checklist – Budapest! This metropolis is a mixture of historical past, tradition, and thermal baths that you simply’ll completely love.
1. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is an absolute gem for a weekend journey. Begin your day at Buda Fortress! It’s one of many most stunning spots within the metropolis providing gorgeous views of the Danube River. Close by, the Fisherman’s Bastion is ideal for these postcard-worthy photographs.
Don’t miss a soothing go to to the Széchenyi Thermal Tub. It’s one of many largest spa complexes in Europe, and soaking in these thermal waters is pure bliss. After that, stroll by Andrássy Avenue to achieve the Hungarian State Opera Home and Heroes’ Sq..
For lunch, head to the Nice Market Corridor. It’s a vibrant spot the place you may strive conventional Hungarian dishes like goulash and lángos. The market can be nice for choosing up native crafts and souvenirs.
Within the night, the break bars within the Jewish Quarter are a must-see. Szimpla Kert is essentially the most well-known one, and it’s obtained a novel, artsy vibe that’s onerous to seek out anyplace else. For dinner, strive a riverside restaurant with views of the illuminated Parliament constructing. These are a number of the high Budapest sights for younger folks.
Budapest is straightforward to navigate, and the general public transport system is environment friendly. Seize a Budapest Card for limitless journey on buses, trams, and metro. This card additionally contains free or discounted entry to many sights.
Budapest is actually probably the greatest European cities for a protracted weekend. Plus, it’s simple to achieve by flight or practice and has so many cool hostels proper within the metropolis middle.
2. Porto, Portugal
Porto is one in all my favourite spots for a weekend journey in Europe. The Ribeira district is the proper start line. I like wandering by the slender streets, previous the colourful buildings, and stopping at a riverside café for a espresso.
Livraria Lello is a must-see. It’s simply essentially the most stunning bookstore I’ve ever visited. The distinctive staircase and gorgeous woodwork are unforgettable. And only a brief stroll away, the Clerigos Tower presents implausible metropolis views – it’s well worth the climb.
You need to strive the Francesinha at Café Santiago for lunch. It’s a hearty sandwich that’s grow to be an area legend. Then, a stroll throughout the Dom Luís I Bridge is crucial. The views are unbelievable, and on the opposite aspect, you’ll discover the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. A wine-tasting tour there may be such a deal with.
Within the night, the Ribeira district comes alive. Dinner at a riverside restaurant, with contemporary seafood and native wine, is among the coolest issues to do in Porto.
Porto is tremendous walkable, however the historic tram line 1 presents a scenic trip alongside the river that’s lots of enjoyable.
Attending to Porto is straightforward with loads of flights and trains. This charming metropolis’s mixture of historical past, tradition, and superb meals will certainly depart you wanting extra.
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
On the lookout for an unforgettable weekend getaway? Edinburgh is your excellent vacation spot! In comparison with close by cities like Glasgow or Newcastle, Edinburgh dazzles with its wealthy historical past, gorgeous structure, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s probably the greatest cities in Europe to go to for a weekend, palms down.
Begin your go to with a tour of the long-lasting Edinburgh Fortress. The views from up there are merely breathtaking. Afterward, take a stroll down the Royal Mile, the place you’ll discover charming retailers, historic websites, and avenue performers. That is simply one of many most original locations to remain in Edinburgh.
Considered one of my favourite spots in is Arthur’s Seat. It’s a little bit of a hike, however the panoramic views of the town are value each step. For a extra relaxed tempo, discover the attractive Princes Road Gardens.
Foodies will love the Grassmarket space. It’s full of pubs and eating places providing every part from conventional Scottish dishes to worldwide delicacies. I like to recommend attempting haggis at an area pub – it’s surprisingly tasty!
Within the night, catch a present on the Edinburgh Playhouse or take pleasure in some reside music at one of many metropolis’s many pubs. The nightlife right here in Edinburgh is energetic and various, with one thing for everybody.
Edinburgh is well-connected, with direct trains from London, Manchester, and different UK cities. The town additionally has a number of the coolest spa lodges conceivable, making it a soothing vacation spot as nicely. With its distinctive mix of tradition and fashionable facilities, Edinburgh is a best choice for a European weekend journey.
4. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is pure magic for a lengthy weekend escape! The mix of seashore vibes, gorgeous structure, and energetic avenue scenes makes it one in all my favourite cities and get together locations in Europe.
Kick off your go to by marveling at Gaudí’s Sagrada Família. Belief me, it’s in contrast to something you’ve seen.
Dive into the native tradition at La Boqueria Market. Seize some contemporary fruit or jamón ibérico, and benefit from the bustling ambiance. Then, head over to the Gothic Quarter. The slender, winding streets are excellent for exploring and discovering hidden gems like small tapas bars and boutique retailers.
For a burst of colour and creativity, Park Güell is a must-see. The mosaics and eccentric buildings are extremely distinctive. Plus, the view of the town from there may be merely gorgeous. In case you’re a fan of artwork, don’t miss the Picasso Museum within the El Born district. It’s a implausible option to see the evolution of his work.
Barcelona’s seashore, Barceloneta, is right for unwinding. If you wish to swim, sunbathe, or take pleasure in a seaside drink, it’s the proper spot to loosen up.
As evening falls, the town comes alive. Get pleasure from dinner within the El Raval neighborhood, identified for its various meals scene, after which try a rooftop bar for cocktails with a view. The nightlife in Barcelona is electrical and presents one thing for everybody.
Barcelona is well accessible, with funds flights from throughout Europe and an environment friendly metro system. The very best time to go to is throughout spring or early fall when the climate is ideal for exploring and the town is much less crowded. It’s one of many prettiest locations in Catalonia, 100%!
5. Ljubljana, Slovenia
In case you’re seeking to discover hidden gems in Europe, I extremely advocate a weekend journey to Ljubljana, Slovenia. Start your journey with a go to to the Ljubljana Fortress. The views from the highest are gorgeous and supply an awesome perspective of the town beneath.
The guts of the town is Prešeren Sq., the place you’ll discover the attractive Franciscan Church and the Triple Bridge. This space is ideal for a stroll and a few people-watching. Make sure that to wander by the Central Market, the place you may pattern native delicacies and purchase contemporary produce.
Considered one of my favourite spots is Tivoli Park. It’s a implausible place to loosen up, have a picnic, or just take pleasure in a peaceable stroll. For lunch, head to the riverside and luxuriate in a meal at one of many many charming cafes. The riverbanks are lined with picturesque buildings and energetic spots to eat and drink.
Ljubljana is extremely walkable and related by funds flights from varied European cities. Trains make it simply accessible from close by international locations too. It’s simply probably the greatest lengthy weekend journeys, particularly in late spring to early autumn when the climate is ideal for exploring.
6. Bologna, Italy
In case you’re on the lookout for a weekend full of superb experiences, Bologna needs to be on the high of your checklist. This metropolis is a foodie paradise, and belief me, the tagliatelle al ragù right here is unforgettable!
Begin your journey within the Quadrilatero district, the place the streets are lined with vibrant market stalls. Contemporary pasta, scrumptious cheeses, and savory cured meats are in all places you look. It’s the proper place to snack and store like an area.
Bologna’s is extremely walkable, because of its 38 kilometers of porticoes. These coated walkways are nice for exploring, rain or shine. Climbing the Asinelli Tower offers you a panoramic view of the town that’s completely well worth the effort.
I extremely advocate visiting the College of Bologna, the oldest college on this planet. The combo of historic buildings and a energetic pupil inhabitants offers the town a novel power. It’s fascinating and enjoyable unexpectedly.
Evenings in Bologna are pure magic. Seize a seat at a comfortable bar, sip on some native wine, and benefit from the laid-back vibe. There’s at all times reside music or a bustling piazza to make your evening particular.
Touring to Bologna is a breeze. With frequent trains from main Italian cities and funds flights from throughout Europe, it’s simple to get there. Bologna’s unbelievable meals, wealthy historical past, and heat ambiance make it probably the greatest European cities for a weekend escape. You’ll depart along with your coronary heart full and your style buds delighted!
7. Prague, Czech Republic
On the lookout for a metropolis that gives one thing for everybody on a weekend break? Prague is the reply. This enchanting metropolis is ideal for lovers of nightlife, historical past, and structure.
Prague’s Outdated City Sq. is a implausible start line. The Astronomical Clock is mesmerizing, and the encircling gothic buildings set a magical tone. Wander by the slender cobblestone streets, and also you’ll discover hidden gems at each flip.
Crossing the Charles Bridge is a should. The bridge is lined with statues and bustling with artists and musicians, making each crossing really feel like an occasion. On the opposite aspect, discover the historic Prague Fortress, which presents gorgeous views of the town.
Prague can be a paradise for beer lovers. The town’s beer tradition is famous, and a go to isn’t full with out sampling some native brews. Head to U Fleků, one of many oldest breweries within the metropolis, for a style of genuine Czech beer. The meals in Prague can be phenomenal!
For a contact of romance, take a night stroll alongside the Vltava River. The lit-up bridges and reflections on the water are merely enchanting. In case you’re into nightlife, the golf equipment and bars round Wenceslas Sq. will preserve you entertained till the early hours, making it a should for younger adults. These are a number of the high actions in Prague, palms down.
Prague’s mixture of historical past, tradition, and energetic ambiance makes it probably the greatest cities in Europe for a weekend break. A tip: get a Prague Card totally free entry to many sights and limitless public transport. Whether or not you’re a pair on the lookout for romance or associates in search of journey, Prague has all of it!
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a implausible selection for a weekend getaway, brimming with vibrant power and colourful appeal. If Porto felt like a comfortable retreat, Lisbon is the energetic counterpart that by no means stops buzzing!
For individuals who love historical past and scenic views, Lisbon presents lots. Begin with the historic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, each gorgeous examples of Portuguese structure. Then, hop on Tram 28 for a nostalgic trip by the town’s slender streets and steep hills. The views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte are breathtaking and an ideal spot for sundown.
Lisbon is a metropolis for explorers. The Alfama district, with its winding alleys and Fado music echoing by the streets, is a must-visit. Don’t miss the LX Manufacturing unit, a stylish spot stuffed with distinctive retailers, cafes, and artwork areas. It’s best for many who love a little bit of edge and creativity of their journey.
In case you’re a foodie, Lisbon received’t disappoint. Take pleasure in pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém, and discover the Time Out Marketplace for a style of native and worldwide flavors. The nightlife right here is vibrant, with the Bairro Alto district providing a mixture of bars and reside music venues.
In comparison with Porto, Lisbon is bigger and extra fast-paced. So, should you’re on the lookout for continuous exercise and a metropolis that pulses with life, fly to Lisbon. You’ll rapidly see why it’s a go-to for a weekend metropolis break in Europe.
9. Bratislava, Slovakia
Certainly, probably the most underrated cities in Europe is Bratislava. This Slovak capital may not be the primary metropolis in your checklist for a weekend journey, but it surely’s full of causes to go to.
Bratislava is extremely accessible, particularly from Vienna. A fast practice or bus trip can have you there in about an hour. Plus, it’s one of many extra budget-friendly locations in Europe, so your pockets will thanks.
The town’s appeal lies in its cozy, walkable outdated city. Spend your days wandering picturesque streets, popping into distinctive retailers, and stress-free in quaint cafes. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of bigger cities, Bratislava presents a extra relaxed tempo, excellent for unwinding over a weekend.
Foodies and wine lovers will really feel proper at dwelling. Bratislava boasts a formidable choice of native wines and conventional Slovak dishes that received’t break the financial institution. Get pleasure from a meal at a riverside restaurant or pattern native wines at one of many many charming wine bars.
In brief, Bratislava is a gem that’s excellent for a soothing weekend break. Right here’s a tip from my very own journey: seize a spot on a Danube River cruise. It’s such a enjoyable option to see the town from an entire new perspective! I left Bratislava feeling refreshed and thrilled by its historical past, tradition, and welcoming vibes. Belief me, you’ll adore it!
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a weekend wonderland! It’s well-liked for a cause – there’s one thing for everybody on this vibrant metropolis. The second you arrive, the appeal of the canals and the thrill of bicycles draw you in.
For artwork lovers, the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum are must-visits. The artwork collections are world-class and can depart you impressed. In case you favor one thing a bit quirky, the Anne Frank Home supplies a deeply shifting expertise.
Biking by the town is an absolute should. Lease a motorbike and discover like an area. The Vondelpark is ideal for a trip or a soothing picnic. I beloved pedaling round and discovering hidden corners of the town.
Foodies can have a blast in Amsterdam. From stroopwafels at a market to high-quality eating within the Jordaan district, the meals scene in Amsterdam is unbelievable. Don’t miss the possibility to strive herring from a avenue vendor – it’s a Dutch basic.
The nightlife in Amsterdam is famous. From cozy pubs to energetic golf equipment, there’s one thing for each style. The Crimson Gentle District, although well-known, presents greater than meets the attention, with attention-grabbing retailers and cafes.
Amsterdam’s accessibility makes it best for a weekend journey. Direct flights and environment friendly public transport imply you may maximize your time exploring.
I extremely advocate taking a canal cruise at sundown. The town lights reflecting on the water are magical, and it’s a soothing option to finish your day. As probably the greatest locations for a metropolis break in Europe, Amsterdam’s power and appeal will make you wish to come again time and again!
11. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is sort of a fairytale come to life, and it’s excellent for anybody who loves a mixture of historical past, design, and enjoyable. It’s someplace I at all times advocate to associates on the lookout for a fast getaway in Europe.
First off, should you’re visiting from spring to early autumn, you’re in for the perfect climate and many out of doors occasions. I bear in mind my first journey there in Could. The town was buzzing with life and every part felt so vibrant.
Begin your day with a go to to Nyhavn, the long-lasting harbor with colourful buildings. It’s an awesome spot for photographs and a breakfast by the water. From there, hop on a motorbike. Copenhagen is extremely bike-friendly, and it’s one of the simplest ways to discover the town.
Don’t miss the Tivoli Gardens, one of many world’s oldest amusement parks. Even when rides aren’t your factor, the gardens are stunning, and the ambiance is magical, particularly within the night.
For artwork and historical past lovers, the Nationwide Museum of Denmark and the Design Museum are high picks. The Danish design aesthetic is so inspiring. Plus, wandering by the reveals is a good way to spend just a few hours.
Foodies, you’re in luck. Copenhagen’s meals scene is superb. From stylish avenue meals markets to high-end eating places like Noma, there’s one thing for each palate. I beloved grabbing smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) at Torvehallerne meals market.
A sensible tip: get a Copenhagen Card. It offers you free entry to many sights and limitless public transport. So deliver your favourite European journey backpack alongside and soak on this magical metropolis!
12. Break up, Croatia
Final on our checklist of essentially the most superb cities in Europe for a weekend journey is Break up, and it’s a gem you shouldn’t miss! Break up is ideal for anybody craving a mixture of historical past, gorgeous surroundings, and laid-back vibes.
Kick off your go to with a stroll by Diocletian’s Palace. This historical palace advanced is the center of Break up, and it’s brimming with historical past. The slender streets are crammed with charming retailers, cafes, and hidden corners.
For breathtaking views, climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral. The trouble is value it while you see the panoramic views of the town and the Adriatic Sea. Afterward, head to Riva, Break up’s bustling waterfront promenade. It’s the proper place to seize a drink, people-watch, and absorb the solar.
Seaside lovers will discover their paradise at Bacvice Seaside, only a brief stroll from the town middle. The water is crystal clear, and the vibe is relaxed. It’s an awesome spot for swimming or simply lounging by the ocean.
Meals in Break up is a spotlight. Strive contemporary seafood at one of many native konobas (taverns). I extremely advocate the grilled fish at Konoba Fetivi…it’s scrumptious and authentically Dalmatian.
For an unforgettable expertise in Break up, take a brief ferry trip to one of many close by islands like Hvar or Brač. The island-hopping choices are plentiful and every island presents its personal distinctive appeal.
Break up’s mixture of historical historical past, vibrant tradition, and exquisite seashores make it a implausible selection for a weekend getaway. You’ll depart with sun-kissed recollections and a longing to return.
Regularly requested questions (FAQs) about the perfect European cities to go to for a weekend
Interested in the perfect cities in Europe for a weekend journey? Discover solutions to your FAQs and uncover the hidden gems of those unbelievable locations.
What’s the prettiest a part of Europe?
The prettiest a part of Europe? That’s a troublesome name, however the Amalfi Coast in Italy is a powerful contender. Its gorgeous coastal views, charming villages, and vibrant blue waters are merely breathtaking.
What’s the best European metropolis to go to?
Amsterdam is among the best European cities to go to. With its compact measurement, glorious public transport, and bike-friendly streets, getting round is a breeze. Plus, Schiphol Airport is well-connected with flights from everywhere in the world.
Which European metropolis will be coated in 2 days?
Bratislava is ideal for a two-day journey. The town is small and walkable, full of charming streets, historic websites, and nice cafes. You possibly can discover the primary sights like Bratislava Fortress, the Outdated City, and the Danube River with out feeling rushed.
Is 2 days sufficient in Budapest?
Sure, two days are sufficient to get an excellent really feel for Budapest. You possibly can go to main sights like Buda Fortress, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and the Parliament Constructing. Stroll alongside the Danube, discover the colourful break bars, and benefit from the native delicacies. It’s a compact itinerary, however completely doable and extremely rewarding!
