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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 acquired you lined. I’ve traveled throughout Europe, and I’ve discovered some implausible cities which might be good 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 prime 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 provides one thing particular, and I’ll spotlight the must-see sights and hidden gems.
In the event 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 a number of standout cities from our choice. These are my private favorites for various causes and may assist you select the place to go first.
- Total most lovely: Prague, Czech Republic
- Greatest meals scene: Bologna, Italy
- Prime nightlife: Barcelona, Spain
- Most enjoyable: 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 Fort! It’s one of many most lovely spots within the metropolis providing beautiful views of the Danube River. Close by, the Fisherman’s Bastion is ideal for these postcard-worthy pictures.
Don’t miss a calming 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 way of Andrássy Avenue to succeed in the Hungarian State Opera Home and Heroes’ Sq..
For lunch, head to the Nice Market Corridor. It’s a vibrant spot the place you possibly can strive conventional Hungarian dishes like goulash and lángos. The market can also be nice for selecting up native crafts and souvenirs.
Within the night, the spoil bars within the Jewish Quarter are a must-see. Szimpla Kert is essentially the most well-known one, and it’s acquired a novel, artsy vibe that’s onerous to search out wherever else. For dinner, strive a riverside restaurant with views of the illuminated Parliament constructing. These are a few of the prime Budapest sights for younger individuals.
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 succeed in by flight or prepare 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 place to begin. I really like wandering by way of the slim 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 lovely bookstore I’ve ever visited. The distinctive staircase and beautiful woodwork are unforgettable. And only a quick stroll away, the Clerigos Tower provides implausible metropolis views – it’s definitely worth the climb.
You need to strive the Francesinha at Café Santiago for lunch. It’s a hearty sandwich that’s turn out to be an area legend. Then, a stroll throughout the Dom Luís I Bridge is crucial. The views are unbelievable, and on the opposite facet, 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 provides a scenic journey 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 go away you wanting extra.
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
Searching for an unforgettable weekend getaway? Edinburgh is your good vacation spot! In comparison with close by cities like Glasgow or Newcastle, Edinburgh dazzles with its wealthy historical past, beautiful structure, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s probably the greatest cities in Europe to go to for a weekend, arms down.
Begin your go to with a tour of the long-lasting Edinburgh Fort. The views from up there are merely breathtaking. Afterward, take a stroll down the Royal Mile, the place you’ll discover charming outlets, historic websites, and road performers. That is simply one of many most original locations to remain in Edinburgh.
Certainly 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 gorgeous Princes Avenue 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 get pleasure from some stay music at one of many metropolis’s many pubs. The nightlife right here in Edinburgh is full of life and numerous, with one thing for everybody.
Edinburgh is well-connected, with direct trains from London, Manchester, and different UK cities. The town additionally has a few of the coolest spa resorts possible, making it a calming vacation spot as properly. With its distinctive mix of tradition and trendy 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 seaside vibes, beautiful structure, and full of life road 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 environment. Then, head over to the Gothic Quarter. The slim, winding streets are good for exploring and discovering hidden gems like small tapas bars and boutique outlets.
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 beautiful. In the event 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 seaside, Barceloneta, is good for unwinding. If you wish to swim, sunbathe, or get pleasure from a seaside drink, it’s the proper spot to chill out.
As night time falls, the town comes alive. Get pleasure from dinner within the El Raval neighborhood, identified for its numerous meals scene, after which try a rooftop bar for cocktails with a view. The nightlife in Barcelona is electrical and provides one thing for everybody.
Barcelona is definitely 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 the event you’re trying to discover hidden gems in Europe, I extremely suggest a weekend journey to Ljubljana, Slovenia. Start your journey with a go to to the Ljubljana Fort. The views from the highest are beautiful and provide a fantastic perspective of the town beneath.
The center of the town is Prešeren Sq., the place you’ll discover the gorgeous Franciscan Church and the Triple Bridge. This space is ideal for a stroll and a few people-watching. Be sure that to wander by way of the Central Market, the place you possibly can pattern native delicacies and purchase contemporary produce.
Certainly one of my favourite spots is Tivoli Park. It’s a implausible place to chill out, have a picnic, or just get pleasure from a peaceable stroll. For lunch, head to the riverside and revel in a meal at one of many many charming cafes. The riverbanks are lined with picturesque buildings and full of life spots to eat and drink.
Ljubljana is extremely walkable and linked 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 the event you’re searching for a weekend full of superb experiences, Bologna must be on the prime 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. Recent pasta, scrumptious cheeses, and savory cured meats are in every single place 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 lined walkways are nice for exploring, rain or shine. Climbing the Asinelli Tower offers you a panoramic view of the town that’s completely definitely worth the effort.
I extremely suggest visiting the College of Bologna, the oldest college on this planet. The combo of historic buildings and a full of life pupil inhabitants offers the town a novel power. It’s fascinating and enjoyable .
Evenings in Bologna are pure magic. Seize a seat at a comfy bar, sip on some native wine, and benefit from the laid-back vibe. There’s all the time stay music or a bustling piazza to make your night time 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 environment make it probably the greatest European cities for a weekend escape. You’ll go away together with your coronary heart full and your style buds delighted!
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Searching 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 Previous City Sq. is a implausible place to begin. The Astronomical Clock is mesmerizing, and the encompassing gothic buildings set a magical tone. Wander by way of the slim 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 facet, discover the historic Prague Fort, which provides beautiful views of the town.
Prague can also be a paradise for beer lovers. The town’s beer tradition is known, 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 also 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 the event you’re into nightlife, the golf equipment and bars round Wenceslas Sq. will maintain you entertained till the early hours, making it a should for younger adults. These are a few of the prime actions in Prague, arms down.
Prague’s mixture of historical past, tradition, and full of life environment 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 searching for romance or pals 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 comfy retreat, Lisbon is the full of life counterpart that by no means stops buzzing!
For individuals who love historical past and scenic views, Lisbon provides a lot. Begin with the historic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, each beautiful examples of Portuguese structure. Then, hop on Tram 28 for a nostalgic journey by way of the town’s slim 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 way of the streets, is a must-visit. Don’t miss the LX Manufacturing unit, a stylish spot stuffed with distinctive outlets, cafes, and artwork areas. It’s perfect for many who love a little bit of edge and creativity of their journey.
In the event 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 stay music venues.
In comparison with Porto, Lisbon is bigger and extra fast-paced. So, in the event you’re searching for continuous exercise and a metropolis that pulses with life, fly to Lisbon. You’ll shortly see why it’s a go-to for a weekend metropolis break in Europe.
9. Bratislava, Slovakia
Undoubtedly, one of the underrated cities in Europe is Bratislava. This Slovak capital won’t be the primary metropolis in your checklist for a weekend journey, however it’s full of causes to go to.
Bratislava is extremely accessible, particularly from Vienna. A fast prepare or bus journey could 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 previous city. Spend your days wandering picturesque streets, popping into distinctive outlets, and enjoyable in quaint cafes. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of bigger cities, Bratislava provides a extra relaxed tempo, good for unwinding over a weekend.
Foodies and wine lovers will really feel proper at residence. Bratislava boasts a formidable number 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 good for a calming 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 find it irresistible!
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a weekend wonderland! It’s common 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 go away you impressed. In the event you choose one thing a bit quirky, the Anne Frank Home gives a deeply transferring expertise.
Biking by way of the town is an absolute should. Hire a motorcycle and discover like an area. The Vondelpark is ideal for a journey or a calming picnic. I cherished pedaling round and discovering hidden corners of the town.
Foodies could 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 prospect to strive herring from a road vendor – it’s a Dutch basic.
The nightlife in Amsterdam is known. From cozy pubs to full of life golf equipment, there’s one thing for each style. The Pink Gentle District, although well-known, provides greater than meets the attention, with attention-grabbing outlets and cafes.
Amsterdam’s accessibility makes it perfect for a weekend journey. Direct flights and environment friendly public transport imply you possibly can maximize your time exploring.
I extremely suggest taking a canal cruise at sundown. The town lights reflecting on the water are magical, and it’s a calming option to finish your day. As probably the greatest locations for a metropolis break in Europe, Amsterdam’s power and appeal will make you need to come again time and again!
11. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is sort of a fairytale come to life, and it’s good for anybody who loves a mixture of historical past, design, and enjoyable. It’s someplace I all the time suggest to pals searching for a fast getaway in Europe.
First off, in the event you’re visiting from spring to early autumn, you’re in for one of the best climate and many out of doors occasions. I keep 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 a fantastic spot for pictures and a breakfast by the water. From there, hop on a motorcycle. Copenhagen is extremely bike-friendly, and it’s one of the best 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 lovely, and the environment is magical, particularly within the night.
For artwork and historical past lovers, the Nationwide Museum of Denmark and the Design Museum are prime picks. The Danish design aesthetic is so inspiring. Plus, wandering by way of the displays is a good way to spend a number of hours.
Foodies, you’re in luck. Copenhagen’s meals scene is superb. From fashionable road meals markets to high-end eating places like Noma, there’s one thing for each palate. I cherished 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 convey 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, beautiful surroundings, and laid-back vibes.
Kick off your go to with a stroll by way of Diocletian’s Palace. This historical palace advanced is the center of Break up, and it’s brimming with historical past. The slim streets are full of charming outlets, cafes, and hidden corners.
For breathtaking views, climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral. The hassle is value it if 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 take in the solar.
Seaside lovers will discover their paradise at Bacvice Seaside, only a quick stroll from the town middle. The water is crystal clear, and the vibe is relaxed. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming or simply lounging by the ocean.
Meals in Break up is a spotlight. Attempt contemporary seafood at one of many native konobas (taverns). I extremely suggest the grilled fish at Konoba Fetivi…it’s scrumptious and authentically Dalmatian.
For an unforgettable expertise in Break up, take a brief ferry journey to one of many close by islands like Hvar or Brač. The island-hopping choices are plentiful and every island provides its personal distinctive appeal.
Break up’s mixture of historical historical past, vibrant tradition, and delightful seashores make it a implausible selection for a weekend getaway. You’ll go away with sun-kissed reminiscences and a longing to return.
Often requested questions (FAQs) about one of the best European cities to go to for a weekend
Inquisitive about one of the best 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 tricky name, however the Amalfi Coast in Italy is a powerful contender. Its beautiful 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 lined 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 may discover the primary sights like Bratislava Fort, the Previous City, and the Danube River with out feeling rushed.
Is 2 days sufficient in Budapest?
Sure, two days are sufficient to get a superb really feel for Budapest. You may go to main sights like Buda Fort, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and the Parliament Constructing. Stroll alongside the Danube, discover the colourful spoil bars, and benefit from the native delicacies. It’s a compact itinerary, however completely doable and extremely rewarding!
