day trips to europe

16 Perfectly Short Trips to Europe

These short trips to Europe are perfect for those who love to travel but want to hold onto their vacation time.

Each of these destinations can be visited over a few short days. You can also visit them as a series of weekend getaways, leaving you with all your vacation time in tact.

Each destination on this list is a large city with a unique historic center. They also have plenty of local attractions to keep you busy, top rated restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene.

With a little flexibility, there are many European destinations that can be visited without investing a significant amount of time.

So if you’re ambitious, you love to travel, and you want to have some epic and fun short trips to Europe, this post is for you.

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Table of Contents

I’ve personally visited each of the cities listed below and think any one of them would be the perfect choice for a short trip to Europe.

Where relevant I’ve linked to itineraries for each destination. Also, when planning a short Europe vacation, be sure to book a hotel in the city center so you’re not wasting time traveling back and forth to your hotel.

I also recommend traveling carry on only if you can. This will save you both time and money, leaving you with more of both so you can travel more. If you need a carry on friendly back you consider one of these European travel backpacks for your next trip.

I also recommend traveling to these destinations in the spring or fall to avoid high season during the summer. Trust me, you’ll be glad you avoided the expensive summer airfare getting to Europe.

If you’re interested in taking short trips to Europe, the United Kingdom is the best place to start. London is one of the closest European cities from the USA.

There are always flights available, and it comes with one of the shortest flight times between the USA and Europe.

London is also a great destination any time of year. Though you are encouraged to avoid the busy summer months if you prefer lower prices and smaller crowds.

There are an unbelievable number of t hings to do in London , making it the perfect city break.

To make the best use of your time I recommend booking a few guided tours around London to save time on transportation and waiting in lines.

From the touristy sites like the London Eye , Buckingham Palace or Tower Bridge, to exploring local neighborhoods like Notting Hill or Shoreditch, there is quite literally something for everyone.

London also comes with an impressive restaurant and bar scene. Meaning you’ll have plenty to do after you’ve finished exploring the city during the day.

If you’re a music fan, consider getting tickets to a local show. There are so many venues in this city, you’re bound to find a great show to see.

London also comes with a great public transportation system. So it’s easy to get from the airport to the city, or just from place to place.

Even with just one day in London , you can see a lot of the city’s best attractions.

2. Reykjavik

If you’re looking for more unique short trips to Europe, consider a place like Reykjavik, Iceland. Reykjavik is beautiful and is the world’s northernmost capital city.

Reykjavik is compact and walkable, making it a perfect weekend trip. You’ll find all the major Reykjavik attractions close to another.

The one exception to this is the famous Blue Lagoon which is near the airport. You can book this as a guided tour to make it easy.

There are plenty of things to do in Reykjavik . Try exploring the city center, Hallgrimskirja Church, and enjoying the city’s many restaurants and bars.

You’ll also find many local boutiques selling unique Icelandic sweaters, textiles, and gifts.

What else is great about the city is that many of Iceland’s most popular destinations can be seen as part of a day trip from Reykjavik .

Some of the most beautiful scenery in Iceland can be seen on guided tours . I recommend tours to the south coast, Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park and Kerid Crater.

If you don’t want to rent a car consider taking a small group tour. They’re more enjoyable than the big bus tours for obvious reasons. Prices for small group tours range from about $50 – $100 depending on which tour you select.

Also, if you’re in Iceland between September and March, be sure to sign up for a Northern Lights tour as well. It’s a total bucket list opportunity, you might as well take it.

Reykjavik is completely underrated in my opinion and one of the most unique weekend trips to Europe.

If you’re a beer fan, or just a fan of Ireland or Irish culture in general, then Dublin is one of the best short trips to Europe for you.

One of the most popular things to do in Dublin is to tour the Guinness Brewery and tasting room . There are also tons of other bars and pubs around the city to enjoy local beers and Irish cuisine and even mingle with other travelers.

Dublin is also a great destination for those who enjoy history and architecture. Ireland is filled with castles that dot the countryside, but there is also the Dublin Castle, right in the old town area.

Dublin is also super walkable and easy to get around. This is a great city to enjoy as a relaxing getaway with a friend or significant other. You can basically just eat and drink your way around the city.

If you have extra time, definitely get out of the city on a day trip from Dublin . There is a lot to see in Ireland that’s not too far from the capital.

If you’re brave, you can also rent a car and take an Ireland road trip . The Irish countryside is honestly incredible.

Paris, France is one of the most popular short trips to Europe taken by travelers from all over the world. Just about everybody wants to visit Paris at least once in their lifetime, and for good reason.

The city has so many museums, historical sites, cafes, boutiques, and lounges. One could easily fill a month long itinerary in this amazing city. There are so many Paris experiences you just don’t want to miss.

But even with a short itinerary, Paris is always a worthwhile destination. Many of the city’s most popular attractions are in the center of Paris. So it’s an easy place to get around and explore without much travel time in between.

With a little hussle, one could easily visit the Eiffel Tower , the Arch de Triomphe, the Louvre , the Notre Dame, and the Sacre Coeur, with as little as 12 hours in Paris . Those with more time can explore a bit deeper and get to know some of the city’s many cafes, restaurants, parks, bars, and more.

Be sure to have your camera with you as well. It’s a beautiful city and you don’t want to miss out on the best photo spots in Paris .

But no matter what’s on your agenda for a trip to Paris, you’re sure to have a great time. If you can afford the splurge, consider selecting a hotel in the city center with a view of the Eiffel Tower.

There are many fancy hotels that offer balconies facing the tower, and while the price tag is high, it’s a beautiful way to wake up each day. Plus you’ll have the added benefit of a hotel right in the heart of the city.

5. Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in all of Europe. The city boasts an incredible food scene, hundreds of historical, cultural and architectural sites, world famous art, and a lively bar scene.

I recently enjoyed a solo trip to Barcelona and had an incredible time, I just know you will too.

Some of the must see spots for visitors are La Sagrada Familia , Park Guell , Casa Batllo , the Gothic Quarter, and the light show at Montjuic.

Once you’ve finished exploring all the art and architecture, plan to head out on the town to sample some of the city’s trendiest tapas bars.

In the evenings, plan for a night out on the town enjoying Barcelona’s lively restaurant and nightlife scene. The locals eat late and party late in Spain, so plan to have a light dinner between 9:00 p.m. and midnight.

If you decide to go out for drinks and dancing after dinner, be prepared for a long night. The clubs don’t get going until around 1:00 a.m. and remain open until after 3:00 a.m.

If you have extra time, consider hopping on a short flight to nearby Mallorca. There are tons of incredible things to do in Palma de Mallorca that are so worth the short trip.

6. Copenhagen

Copenhagen is one of my own favorite short trips to Europe and I’d recommend a visit to this city to just about everybody. Even more, if you love to travel for food, this is the perfect city for you.

The best time to visit Copenhagen depends on what you’re looking for, but I would avoid the summer if you can.

If you’re planning a visit to Copenhagen, book your hotel near the city center and be prepared to rent a bike to ride around on. This is how the locals get around and it’s a really fun way to explore the city.

The most popular destination in Copenhagen is Nyhavn, or new harbor. This is where you’ll find all the boats and colorful buildings. For photos without other people in them, you’ll need to arrive early, but honestly this is a beautiful stop any time of day.

Other points of interest in Copenhagen are the Little Mermaid Statue, Amalienborg Palace, Christiania, Round Tower, Christansborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle.

You can visit many of these spots with just one day in Copenhagen . Though I encourage you to stay for at least three days. Trust me, you won’t want to leave.

Another place you’ll really want to visit is Tivoli Gardens . This is an amusement park right in the center of town. It’s only open seasonally, so check their website before your visit. Consider planning your trip for October if possible, as Halloween is an especially fun time to visit.

If you’re organizing a trip to Copenhagen, you absolutely must plan to visit some of the city’s famous restaurants. For those not on a tight budget, make a reservation in advance for Noma .

This is one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, it currently sits at number two. It’s pricey, but the experience and the food are incredible.

But for those of us with a more modest budget, not to worry, there are plenty of other great food options in Copenhagen. I made my own DIY Copenhagen food tour during my visit so I wouldn’t miss all the great food here.

Some of my favorite restaurants in Copenhagen are Mother , a fantastic Italian place serving Naples style pizza, Hija de Sanchez , where I had the best al Pastor taco of my life, and The Corner 108, where you can find fantastic pastries and coffee to start your day.

7. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is another extremely popular European destination, especially for those interested in art, architecture and culture.

First time visitors to Amsterdam can visit Museumplein, which includes the Van Gogh and Modern Art Museum, view the street art in the NDSM nieghborhood, and take a private canal tour.

You also don’t want to miss a visit to the Anne Frank House, which you should book in advance .

Once you start getting hungry, be sure to stop by the street markets to sample the Stroopwafels. These are sweet wafer cookies joined by a caramel filling.

If you’re looking for something more filling, head over to Foodhallen, a large food hall with over 20 international food stalls. Get small plates so you can try as many as possible.

In the evenings, don’t forget to check out Amsterdam’s trendy restaurants and bars. The Netherlands are also known for having great cheese and wine, so be sure to give these a try over dinner as well.

After dinner, head out to explore some of Amsterdam’s many rooftop bars.

Rome is one of my favorite cities in the world, and if you’ve never been, you absolutely must visit.

While I would normally encourage anyone visiting Italy to stay as long as physically possible, one can definitely enjoy Rome even on a short trip to Europe.

For a productive visit to Rome, I encourage you to book a hotel in the historic center. This will guarantee you are within walking distance (for the most part) to the city’s most famous attractions.

From the historic center you can easily get to the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, just to name a few.

While these sites can all be seen in one day, you should consider signing up for a tour if you plan to visit the Colosseum.

The history of the place is fascinating, so a guided tour is worth the added expense . You’ll also get to skip the lines, which will save you a significant amount of time.

Tourst attractions aside, my absolute favorite thing to do in Rome is to just walk around the city and explore on my own. You’ll find old Roman ruins all over the place, and it’s really neat to see them unexpectedly as you’re walking around.

The Trastevere neighborhood is especially beautiful in the early evening.

My other favorite thing about Rome is the food.

Do yourself a favor and try as many restaurants as possible during your short visit. Italy has some of the best food in the world (in my opinion), and you don’t want to miss it.

Be sure to order wine with your meals too, it’s incredibly inexpensive in Italy. It’s also delicious.

If you’ve already been to Rome and would like to see more of Italy, consider visiting some of the smaller towns. I recommend Naples, Siena, or Cinque Terre. You honestly can’t go wrong anywhere in Italy.

Prague, located in the Czech Republic, is another unique option for some fun short trips to Europe. An easy two day Prague itinerary will get you to most of the city’s best attractions.

First time visitors to Prague should start by exploring the city in its Old Town area. This is where you’ll find the beautiful cobblestone streets and historic buildings.

From the Old Town head out on foot to see the Astronomical clock , Dlouha Street, Prague Castle , Krymska Street, the Lennon Wall and Charles Bridge.

When you get hungry, be sure to try some of the local restaurants serving schnitzel, goulash, smoked meat, and garlic soup.

In the evenings, head out on the town to try the Czech Republic’s famous Pilsners. You’ll find pubs all across the city.

10. Brussels

Brussels is the perfect destination for those of you who love food, beer and chocolate .

When visiting Brussels make sure you book your hotel near the city’s historic center. This way you’ll be walking distance to all the best Brussels attractions . Brussels is a very walkable city so you’ll want to be in the action.

Start out your visit to Brussels by exploring Grand Place and all the shops and cafes in the main square. Then head out to explore the rest of the city. Be sure not to miss Manneken Pis, European Union and European Parliament, the House of European History, and the Atomium.

Once you’ve completed all those stops, it’s time for the fun part. Make your way back to the city center and head to Delerium Cafe . Here you’ll be able to sample hundreds of local and international beers. It’s a fun spot to hang out and meet other travelers. They have live music and special events in the evenings.

When you get hungry, make your way back to the city center. One there you can try the country’s famous Belgian waffles , fries, and chocoalate. I recommend trying these items at different places around the city as possible. You know, just to make sure you’ve covered your bases.

Don’t forget to pick up a box of local chocolates to bring home to your friends.

11. Lisbon, Portugal

A weekend getaway to Lisbon, Portugal is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a cheap trip to Europe. Lisbon offers an unbeatable combination of culture and history.

Lisbon offers tons of great local tours to help you get the most out of your short visit.

With its pastel buildings, churches sprinkled in between cobblestone streets and delicious cuisine, you’ll quickly understand why Lisbon is one of the most beloved cities in the world.

You definitely don’t want to skip a day trip to Pena Palace and Sintra .

Enjoy exploring the city day and night, eating in local eateries, tasting unique wines and having amazing conversations with locals.

For a memorable weekend getaway that won’t break your budget, Lisbon makes an excellent short trip to Europe.

12. Azores, Portugal

The Azores is one of the most beautiful places on earth. With its temperate climate, incredible scenery, and unique culture, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this gorgeous archipelago for a weekend getaway.

Whether you prefer spending your days outdoors or exploring the local culture indoors, there’s something for everyone in the Azores.

The Azores are a great spot for whale watching , with over 20 species found here throughout the year.

From sperm whales to humpbacks to blue whales, visitors have plenty of opportunities to observe whales in their natural habitat. Plus, since whale watching season runs year-round, you’re sure to find an ideal time window for your visit.

The Azores are also home to stunning natural attractions like volcanoes, thermal springs, and lush green meadows filled with wildflowers.

When you’re not busy enjoying nature’s wonders, take some time to explore the unique culture of this remarkable destination. Visit local farmers markets or sample traditional cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

With its vibrant culture, spectacular architecture, and stunning views, Edinburgh is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Europe.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Edinburgh no matter your interests.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with a bit of history and plenty of adventure, Edinburgh is for you.

Edinburgh is overflowing with history and culture. As you wander around the cobblestone streets, you can’t help but be taken back in time. Whether it’s exploring centuries-old castles or strolling through cobblestone alleyways, every corner of this city has something fascinating to offer.

The city also has an abundance of museums perfect for those interested in learning about the area’s rich history.

From the National Museum of Scotland to The Real Mary King’s Close, an underground network of tunnels dating back hundreds of years, you’ll find plenty of ways to immerse yourself in all that Edinburgh has to offer.

The city is also known for its great restaurants. Whether it’s traditional Scottish dishes like haggis or more contemporary gastronomic delights like gourmet burgers, there are countless places to dine around the city.

14. Bergen, Norway

Bergen, Norway is one of my favorite recent discoveries. This gorgeous Nordic town is located along the coast and offers incredible views, unique architecture, upscale cuisine, and some very friendly locals.

The city may be small, but there is so much to do in Bergen . The view from the top of Mount Fløyen is simply breathtaking and can be accessed via a funicular railway.

Mount Floyen and the funiciular was one of my favorite Bergen attractions . Definitely don’t skip this.

On clear days you can even spot the famous Seven Mountains that surround the city.

Be sure to take a fjord tour while you’re in town as well. This is one of the best ways to see the area.

No trip to Bergen would be complete without exploring its rich culture. Check out the local museums such as Bryggen Museum and Hanseatic Museum. Both offer interesting insights into Norway’s history and traditions.

Alsop, don’t forget about Troldhaugen, the former home of composer Edvard Grieg. This museum offers guided tours that will transport you back in time with its captivating music rooms and lovely gardens.

If you’re looking for delicious cuisine, then Bergen won’t disappoint. From classic Norwegian dishes like reindeer steak and codfish cakes (baccalao) to international favorites such as pizza and sushi, there’s something for every palate.

There are also plenty of cozy cafes where you can enjoy locally-brewed coffee or hot chocolate while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

15. Stockholm, Sweden

If you’ve been longing for a weekend getaway to a European city, then Stockholm is the perfect destination. There is so much to do in Stockholm , you’ll be glad you came.

This stylish and vibrant city in the Nordic region offers something for everyone. From breathtaking nature trails to beautiful architecture and cultural experiences, Stockholm has it all.

One of the best ways to explore Stockholm is by foot. You could easily spend an entire day walking around taking in the sights.

The cobblestone streets are full of stunning old buildings and modern shops. Stroll through Gamla Stan (Old Town) and take in the centuries-old history of this area.

The city is known for its impressive museums, so be sure not to miss the best museums in Stockholm during your getaway. The Vasa Museum was my absolute favorite .

Make sure to stop by Stortorget Square, the oldest public square in Stockholm, and admire its picturesque buildings and monuments.

It’s also worth visiting Kungstradgarden park, which features lush gardens and a tranquil lake.

Sweden is known for its beautiful nature trails that offer amazing views of forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, and more.

One of the most popular trails is Skuleskogen National Park located near Stockholm which features scenic hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls. You can also explore Djurgården Island which has several attractions including museums, galleries, parks, and more.

A visit to Stockholm would be complete without trying some delicious Swedish cuisine. The meatballs with lingonberry jam were my favorite.

16. Vienna, Austria

If you’re looking for an exciting and unique place to explore over the weekend, look no further than Vienna, Austria.

This vibrant city has something for everyone and is sure to provide you with a memorable experience.

Vienna is home to some of the most iconic monuments in Europe, including Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

The architecture alone is enough to make your jaw drop, from baroque churches to gothic cathedrals, there are so many beautiful buildings it’s hard not to be overwhelmed by their sheer beauty.

When it comes to things to do in Vienna , you’ll never run out of options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll through one of the city’s many parks or an afternoon spent visiting museums and galleries, this city has something for everyone.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Vienna is home to many outdoor activities like canoeing on the Danube River or hiking up one of its nearby mountains.

Let’s also not forget about the city’s famous opera. If you’re looking for a unique and fun night out, book tickets for the opera. You won’d be disappointed.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these 16 Perfectly Short Trips to Europe that won’t drain your vacation time. If you liked this post please consider sharing. Thanks for reading.

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35 Best Weekend Trips in Europe (Plus Where to Stay)

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Home » 35 Best Weekend Trips in Europe (Plus Where to Stay)

Have you been wondering about the best weekend trips in Europe? I’ve got you covered!

Weekend trips in Europe can be a truly magical experience. From the sunny beaches of Greece to the rolling hills of Italy, our travels have taken us through many European destinations.

But of course, we cannot have covered every destination in Europe for this list so we have had a little help!

All of the 35 best European weekend breaks have been hand-selected by experienced travel bloggers who know all about the best spots for a weekend getaway.

All of the destinations are places that are within easy reach and offer incredible experiences that you’ll always remember. Ready for your next adventure? Keep reading and find out our selection of the 35 best weekend trips in Europe – perfect for those looking for an exciting escape!

35 of The Best Weekend Trips in Europe

With 35 best cities for a weekend trip in Europe to choose from, it can be difficult to pick the right one.

From culture-filled Prague to historical Rome, our list of must-see European cities offers something special for every type of traveler.

1. Paris, France

Paris is one of the most romantic getaways in Europe.

With its iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, winding cobblestone streets, and charming cafes, it’s easy to see why Paris is a top destination for couples looking for an unforgettable weekend.

Whether it’s exploring the City of Light together or snuggling up during a picnic in one of its many public gardens, Paris offers endless activities and memories that you’ll keep forever.

For those dreaming of a weekend Europe trips full of romance and adventure, look no further than Paris!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Paris:

• Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access : Discover the beauty of Paris from new heights. Enjoy access to the 2nd floor and upgrade for breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.
• Louvre Reserved Access and Boat Cruise : Explore the iconic Louvre Museum with a reserved access ticket and cruise the River Seine anytime to experience the city from its historic waterway.

How to get to Paris

Traveling to Paris is a breeze with two major airports: Charles de Gaulle and Orly.

Both are conveniently located near the city center and connected by RER trains. Tickets for the train cost around €10.

Where to stay in Paris

The Idol Hotel has all the amenities you want, with impeccable service.

Conveniently located near Opéra Garnier and Pigalle for when you are out and about sight seeing.

When back at the hotel enjoy the sun terrace or indulge in room service with a minibar stocked with snacks for you and the kids!

2. Venice, Italy

Venice is one of the best cities for a weekend trip in Europe.

With its winding canals, fascinating architecture, delicious food, and beautiful art and culture, it’s no wonder why Venice tops many lists of best weekend destinations in Europe.

From the sweeping views from San Giorgio Maggiore to the bustling Piazza San Marco and historic churches throughout the city, Venice is an unmissable destination.

Must-see sights of Venice include Rialto Bridge, the San Marco Piazza, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

It’s no surprise that millions of visitors flock to this unique city each year, it truly has something for everyone!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Venice:

• Grand Canal Gondola Ride : Experience the essence of Venice as you explore hidden waterways near the Grand Canal on a picturesque gondola ride. Listen to in-app commentary to learn about the city as you admire the sights.
• St. Mark’s Basilica Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide : Explore the beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice with a skip-the-line ticket. Learn fascinating facts about the artwork inside using an audio tour on your mobile device.

How to get to Venice

Venice has the small Marco Polo Venice Airport, where you can take a bus or boat into the city.

The best way to arrive is by train to the Santa Lucia Train Station, located on the northwestern edge.

There’s also a bus terminal and parking garages nearby at Piazzale Roma.

Where to stay in Venice

The B&B Ca’ Bonvicini is a lovely B&B in the heart of Venice! Situated in a tranquil yet convenient location near all attractions.

Just a 7-minute walk from the renowned Rialto Bridge, this property features spacious Venetian-style rooms, some with canal views.

Countless piazzas, restaurants, galleries, and bars are just steps away in any direction!

3. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre , Italy is the perfect city for a weekend trip in Europe.

It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline, crystal clear waters, and vibrant villages that are sure to engage and delight any traveler.

For anyone looking for an exciting and unique cultural experience, Cinque Terre can provide.

With its picturesque beauty and vibrant cuisine, it’s no surprise that this destination is one of the most popular stops on European city trips.

Spend your weekend exploring these five pastel colored villages and you’ll be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Cinque Terre:

• Monterosso Kayak and Snorkeling Tour : Explore the stunning Monterosso coast, kayaking with a local guide. Enjoy scenic views, snorkel in a protected bay, and embrace the wildlife.
• Tour Cinque Terre From La Spezia by Train with Limoncino : Explore Cinque Terre villages on a day trip from La Spezia cruise terminal. Hop on a train to visit Vernazza, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore with a guide.

How to get to Cinque Terre

The closest airport to Cinque Terre is Pisa. Trains offer the easiest transportation option within and to Cinque Terre. Trenitalia also provides direct connections to La Spezia from Rome and Florence.

Once in Cinque Terre, the Cinque Terre Express train runs between La Spezia and Levanto, stopping at each village in Sestri Levante.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

Nestled amidst vineyards and olive trees, high above Levanto, the gateway to Cinque Terre, is Al Terra di Mare .

Certain rooms boast panoramic valley or sea views, alongside a private balcony or terrace.

Hotel Al Terra Di Mare is located 2.3 km from Levanto center and 2 km from the train station.

4. Rome, Italy

Rome is a city that offers something for everyone.

From the art and architecture to the food and culture, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best cities in Europe for weekend trips.

Whether you’re looking for an artsy getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Rome has it all.

With its stunning monuments, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.

So if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life for a few days – Rome is the perfect destination.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Rome:

• Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill : Get priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour. Step into the world of gladiators and emperors as you journey back to ancient Rome.
• Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & Basilica Skip-the-Line Entry : Explore the Vatican Museums’ art collection on a tour with an art historian guide. Optional entry to Castle Gandolfo and St Peter’s Basilica. Admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel.
• And for if you want to get out of Rome for a day tour, check out our recommendations of the best Pompeii day trips from Rome .

How to get to Rome

To reach Rome, the most convenient options are by plane or train. Rome has two airports: Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino.

The main international airport is FCO. Both airports are about 30-40 minutes from the city center.

From the airport, you can easily take a train or Metro into the city center.

Where to stay in Rome

Hotel Cristoforo Colombo is set in Rome’s EUR district and close to Rome’s GRA Ring Road, offering complete convenience for all your shopping needs.

If you are visiting in the summer months, the outdoor pool is also wonderful for the kids!

5. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is a beautiful destination that offers one of the best Europe weekend breaks.

The picturesque setting features postcard-perfect views and a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure, there’s something to suit every taste.

With plenty of activities and attractions, from relaxing boat trips to thrilling cable car rides, Lake Como is the perfect option for your next Europe weekend break.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Lake Como:

• Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Scenic Lake Cruise : Go from Como to Lugano, Cadenabbia, and Bellagio on a day trip. Explore two glamorous countries, two charming lakes, and two ravishing shopping districts.
• Guided City Walking Tour with Cruise Ticket : Explore picturesque piazzas, the local cathedral, and iconic lakeside villas on a guided tour of Como by land and lake.

How to get to Lake Como

To reach Lake Como, take a train from Milan Centrale Station or Milan Nord Cadorna to either Como San Giovanni (Como’s main station) or Como Nord Lago. The closest airport is in Milan.

Where to stay in Lake Como

Located on the northwestern shore in the small town of San Vito, Casa Olea Hotel offers humble lodging.

Windows offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, blending curated shapes and sizes. Relax in a bath while admiring a private garden or gaze at the dimly lit Chiesa San Vito under the moonlight.

6. Zakopane, Poland

Zakpoane is an incredible city to visit on a weekend getaway, particularly for those looking to explore Europe.

From the stunning architecture of the old town, to the vibrant culture and lively nightlife, Zakpoane offers something truly special that you won’t find in many other cities.

It has hundreds of restaurants to choose from so you’re always spoilt for choice.

Whether you want to join a pub crawl or explore the city’s galleries and monuments, this European city is sure to fill any traveler’s itinerary with a wealth of activities and sights in Zakopane .

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Zakopane:

• Relax, Explore and Conquer Zakopane’s Peaks : Experience Zakopane’s allure in a day of relaxation & adventure! Enjoy thermal baths, explore the charming city, and conquer the heights of Tatras.

How to get to Zakopane

Zakopane is located about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive South of Krakow and there are a number of ways to get there, including taking public transport such as a bus or a train ride.

Alternatively, you can choose to drive there directly or take a day tour.

Where to stay in Zakopane

Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences is a short walk from Krupówki, the city’s main street.

The onsite spa offers modern spa facilities, including steam and Turkish saunas.

Guests can enjoy skiing and cycling activities in and around Zakopane.

7. Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a small Austrian village located in the Salzkammergut region near the mountains.

It is known to be one of the most beautiful and charming places on Earth, with its traditional alpine houses, crystal clear lake, and breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains.

Hallstatt is also considered as a great place for weekend trips because it offers plenty of activities such as exploring salt mines and the ancient churches.

Take a boat ride across Lake Hallstatt and visit the nearby Dachstein Ice Cave – all of which guarantee an unforgettable experience.

So if you’re looking for one of the best European weekend trips, add Hallstatt to your list!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Hallstatt:

• Self-Guided Private Tour of Hallstatt : Explore Hallstatt, Austria’s most scenic town, on a self-guided tour. Discover the top photo spots and iconic landmarks.
• City Highlights Guided Walking Tour inlcuding the Salt Mine (Group of 4) : Explore Hallstatt on a pleasant guided walking tour. Visit a salt mine, admire a 12th-century Catholic church, pass by the Bone House, and learn about the history of Hallstatt. Picture-perfect experience guaranteed!

How to get to Hallstatt

You can reach Hallstatt by either road or rail. If you prefer driving or taking the bus, the major starting points are Vienna, Salzburg (Hallstatt is a really easy day trip from Salzburg), and Munich.

There is a train station at Hallstatt, but the train journey is a lot longer than the journey by car or bus.

Where to stay in Hallstatt

Seehotel Grüner Baum is located right next to the lake and has been running for a while now.

Many of the rooms are located right next to the lake and it is recommended to book in advance. There’s a free shuttle to the town too!

8. Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos (or Zante) is one of the most beautiful and stunning islands in Europe.

With its pure white beaches, unspoiled nature, and crystal clear blue waters, it’s no wonder that Zakynthos is one of the best weekend breaks in Europe for a relaxing getaway.

From boat trips to the famous Blue Caves to discovering local taverns, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on this idyllic Greek island.

And if you’re looking for something more laid-back, Zakynthos also offers some of the best sunsets in Europe – perfect for taking a moment to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

So if you’re looking for the perfect weekend break in Europe that combines relaxation and adventure, head to Zakynthos!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Zakynthos:

• Glass Bottom Speed Boat Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves & Viewpoint: Take a guided minibus tour to Zakynthos’ northern landmarks, including the Navagio Viewpoint. Explore the famous Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves on a glass-bottom speedboat.
• Navagio Shipwreck Beach Excursion by Boat : The trip stops at Shipwreck Beach for photos, explores the best blue caves (Sfogio and White Beach), and visits Porto Steniti, and Poseidon’s profile. Also, enjoy 3 swimming stops!

How to get to Zakynthos

Zakynthos is known for its convenient airport. You can fly from Athens, about a 1-hour journey, or take a ferry from Kyllini in mainland Greece, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Where to stay in Zakynthos

Ionian Hill Hotel is a short 5-minute walk from the beach, Ionian Hill is located on the outskirts of Argassi in Zakynthos.

With accommodations offering balcony views of the garden or Ionian Sea, the property includes a pool and snack bar.

9. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a stunningly beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, the perfect destination for a romantic weekend break with your significant other, no matter what time of year you visit Santorini .

With its white-washed villages, picture-perfect sunsets, and cobalt blue waters, it’s easy to see why this iconic Greek island is continually rated as one of the best weekend breaks in Europe.

Santorini offers time to relax on secluded beaches or exciting adventures exploring winding streets and vibrant markets.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Santorini:

• Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit : Enjoy a cruise to Santorini’s volcanic islands. Take a dip in hot springs, marvel at volcano views, and explore Thirassia and Oia’s charming villages.
• Akrotiri Archaeological Site Entry Ticket : Explore the ancient city, buried in volcanic ash. Visit the remarkably preserved site often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean”.
• Luxury Small Group Catamaran with Meal & Open Bar : Join a small group for a morning or sunset catamaran sail around the Santorini caldera! Enjoy an open bar, snorkeling, swimming in hot springs, and a delicious Greek meal.

For more inspiration, we have a complete list of places in Greece to visit .

How to get to Santorini

Santorini has an international airport and can be reached by plane from Athens and various European cities. The island is also connected to Athens by ferry.

To reach Santorini from other islands like Mykonos and Paros, the ferry is the sole direct connection option available.

Where to stay in Santorini

Whether you are looking for the best hotels in Santorini with pools , or just want an amazing hotel on the beach there is a hotel for all travelers!

Kalestesia Suites is perched atop Akrotiri Hill, just 350 meters from Akrotiri village and 800 meters from the main square.

Offering stunning views of the volcano, Caldera, and Santorini, some rooms even boast their own heated plunge pools!

10. Taormina, Italy

Taormina is one of the best European weekend trips for people looking to explore the beauty of the Italian coast

With its stunning views of Mount Etna, charming cobblestone streets, and elegant restaurants, it’s easy to see why so many travelers choose to spend their weekends in this picturesque town.

With a variety of activities to do in Taormina , from exploring ancient ruins to taking part in outdoor sports, there’s something for everyone who visits Taormina.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Taormina:

• Food and Wine Walking Tour : Join a local guide for an evening walking tour of Taormina. Discover the best places to eat and drink while sampling typical Sicilian foods and fine regional wines.
• Mount Etna Guided Volcano Summit Hiking Tour with Cable Car : Hike Mount Etna’s summit craters, guided by professionals. Ride a cable car to the starting point and trek for 3.5 hours amidst breathtaking scenery.
• Ancient Theater Entry Ticket and Guided Tour : Visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina, one of Italy’s largest show venues. Unearth the wonders of this renowned archaeological site.

How to get to Taormina

Getting to Taormina is easy as there are frequent direct flights from major cities across Europe, making it a great choice for a quick getaway!

Where to stay in Taormina

Hotel Corallo , situated in Taormina Mare, offers enchanting views of the Bay of Naxos and Cape Taormina from the guestrooms and the restaurant.

Steps away from the hotel, you can relax on the beautiful beach of Baia di Villagonia when not exploring the area.

11. Corfu, Greece

Corfu is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe for many reasons.

The beautiful beaches, stunning views, and plentiful activities to do in Corfu make it an ideal getaway spot.

The island has a unique blend of cultures, which can be appreciated through its fascinating architecture, rich cuisine, and local customs.

Spend your days exploring the old town or just sitting back and sipping on a glass of ouzo!

With its vibrant nightlife, delicious dishes, and amazing outdoor activities, Corfu is truly one of the best weekend getaways in Europe.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Corfu:

• Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise : Embark on a day cruise from Corfu to the beautiful islands of Paxos and Antipaxos in the Ionian Sea. Witness the stunning views of the famous blue caves.
• Live Jazz Music at the Old Fortress : Uncover a hidden side of Corfu with music at a secret location. Experience the talents of local musicians near the old fortress in the harbor.

How to get to Corfu

To reach Corfu from mainland Greece, you can take a ferry or a plane.

There are flights to Corfu from various European countries, as well as seasonal ferry connections with 3 ports in Italy and a year-round ferry connection with 1 port in Albania.

Where to stay in Corfu

Dreams Corfu Resort & Spa is in the charming town of Gouvia, right on the Corfu Island seafront.

It’s perfect for families and couples seeking an all-inclusive Mediterranean getaway. Rooms range from double and family rooms to suites and bungalows.

This resort has a dedicated beach and offers a variety of water sports, there are 2 pools, including a family-friendly pool.

12. Nice, France

Nice is a small city on the French Riviera that punches well above its weight when it comes to quick getaways in Europe.

Located just 40 minutes away from Monaco, Nice is an ideal destination for those who want to experience all of the glamour and grandeur of the Riviera without spending too much time getting there.

Its beaches are perfect for sun-soaking, while its historic city center is full of idyllic cafes, restaurants, and shopping streets lined with art galleries and boutiques.

With a host of cultural activities in Nice including incredible music festivals and modern art installations, Nice offers something for everyone looking for quick getaways in Europe.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Nice:

• Culture, Wine & Food Old Town Guided Walking Tour : Join a walking tour of Nice Old Town to taste local produce like olive oils, regional wines, cheeses, bread, cold-cuts, fruits, and pastries in Castle Hill Park.
• Old Town Treasures Walking Tour : Explore Nice’s history on a guided walking tour in the medieval old town, Vieux-Nice. Discover the city’s story from Greek origins to Italian governors.

How to get to Nice

With an international airport just 8km from Nice’s center, flying is the fastest and easiest option.

A regular 20-minute bus service connects the airport and the city, ensuring quick arrival at your destination.

Where to stay in Nice

Aparthotel AMMI Nice Massena is located just 200 meters from Place Masséna and a quick 3-minute walk from the beach and the famous Promenade des Anglais.

The hotel is only a 15-minute walk from Nice Ville Train Station.

The nearest tramway stop is just 100 meters away, and the old town is within a 5-minute walk from Ajoupa.

13. Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy is a must-see for a weekend trip in Europe. With its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and Mediterranean climate, it’s easy to see why Florence is one of the best weekend trips in Europe.

Another great reason why Florence is great for a weekend trip is its small size, which means you can easily experience a lot within just two days!

Our kids loved that we could see a lot all within close proximity which means they did not have to walk too much when exploring.

From admiring the beauty of the iconic Duomo to exploring the Piazzas to dining on delicious Italian food or the best Gelato, Florence is the perfect destination whether traveling as a couple or as a family to Florence .

If you are a food lover, learn how to make your own gelato (and pasta, pizza) in a Florence cooking class .

So if you want to have an amazing European getaway make sure to add Florence to your list!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Florence:

• Skip the Line Entry to Brunelleschi’s Dome and Cathedral : Explore Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore and marvel at Brunelleschi’s Dome. Enjoy panoramic views of Florence from the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
• Michelangelo’s David Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket : Skip the line and experience Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery Museum in Florence which houses more sculptures by Michelangelo than any other place in the world. Explore this gem with access to all parts of the museum and an optional audio guide.

How to get to Florence

Getting to Florence is quite convenient and the popular choices are by plane, train, or car.

Florence has its own international airport (Amerigo Vespucci) and Pisa International Airport is just 50 km away.

Alternatively, Florence is a major high-speed railway hub with regular train connections throughout Italy. It is also located on the A1, the main Italian motorway connecting Milan and Naples.

Where to stay in Florence

The 4-star iQ Hotel Firenze features modern and spacious rooms with an onsite Pizzeria and Cocktail Bar serving Italian gourmet pizzas , appetizers, and cocktails.

It is conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from Florence Cathedral, Santa Maria Novella Station, and nearby attractions such as Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi Gallery.

The hotel also offers a fully equipped fitness area, an indoor boutique Spa, and an outdoor plunge pool.

Check out our local’s guide to areas to stay in Florence for the inside scoop!

14. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Contributed by The Spicy Journey

What attracts people towards Amsterdam, one of the most popular destinations in Europe, are the romantic canals, museums, parks, Dutch cuisine, Heineken beer, and the tulips!

There are also many exciting day trip opportunities to Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn, the Hague, Rotterdam, and other beautiful destinations in the Netherlands and Belgium.

What’s even more exciting is that it is completely feasible to cover all the major attractions within a  weekend trip to Amsterdam  and even see the countryside with the help of the Amsterdam and region travel card.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Amsterdam:

• Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour : Explore Anne Frank’s life on a walking tour of Amsterdam. Learn about her upbringing and the history of the Jewish Quarter and World War II from an expert guide.
• V an Gogh Museum Timed Entry Ticket : Experience the Van Gogh Museum! Explore hundreds of paintings, drawings, and letters by the Dutch master. Get tickets for your preferred time slot.
• Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option : Enjoy a canal cruise through the UNESCO Heritage listed Golden Age Canals of Amsterdam. See city highlights like the Skinny Bridge, Red Light District, and Old Harbor. Choose between a standard or deluxe tour with unlimited Dutch cheese, wine, and drinks.

How to get to Amsterdam

Amsterdam has one of the busiest international airports in Europe so travellers can fly into Amsterdam directly.

The Amsterdam airport is located 10 miles from the city center and you can take a local train or bus to reach the city center from the airport.

The city also has excellent train connectivity to the rest of Europe and the United Kingdom. 

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre  is located at the edge of the river IJ, one tram stop from the Amsterdam central station.

The hotel is also within walking distance of most of the sights in Amsterdam, making it the perfect base to explore the city.

The hotel’s fitness center, spa, restaurant, and amazing breakfast are an added bonus.

15. London, United Kingdom

Contributed by Linda on the Run

“Planning the best weekend trip in Europe? If so then head to London.

Not only can you quickly and easily access top attractions using the Tube but you will never run out of things to do during your London itinerary . 

So, start with a visit to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Next, see where the Royals were crowned at Westminster Abbey. Also, take a photo in front of Big Ben and then walk along the Thames to the Tower of London. 

Once here, see the Crown Jewels and where Anne Boleyn lost her head before walking across Tower Bridge to Borough Market. This landmark has been around since the 12th century and is an amazing place to enjoy a London food tour . 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in London:

• Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket : Discover 1000 years of history at the Tower of London. See the Crown Jewels and gather captivating insights from the Yeoman Warders, the guardians of the Tower.
• Skip-the-Line Entry to The London Eye : Experience the thrill as you rise above the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Soar up to 135 meters on the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, enjoying mesmerizing 360-degree views of the city including Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London.

How to get to London

To get to London you can fly into Luton, Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, etc. Our top tip is to try to fly into Heathrow and take the Piccadilly line into central London.

Where to stay in London

The Tower Hotel London is an incredible place to stay with sweeping views of Tower Bridge right from your room.

Refined accommodations include in-room coffee makers as well as complimentary breakfast and all-day refreshments.

>>> Check out our post for London Hotels with rooftop pools and views!

16. Munich, Germany

Contributed by Big World Short Stories

Munich is the capital of the largest German state Bavaria. It is a perfect destination for a weekend trip due to its size and cultural and historic heritage.

Some of the main attractions that you can explore within  2 days in Munich  are the  Neuschwanstein Castle  and the BMW Museum.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Munich:

• 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour of Munich : Discover vibrant Munich on a 3-hour guided bike tour whilst learning intriguing stories about the city’s history from your guide.
• An Evening of Bavarian Beer and Food Culture: Explore Munich’s food culture and indulge in traditional food and beer. Join a guided tour, visit the Oktoberfest Museum, and savor a delightful Bavarian dinner.

How to get to Munich

Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC) is the closest international airport to Munich. The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center of Munich is by train.

There are 2 train lines S8 and S1 connecting Munich airport and the city center. The trains leave every 10 minutes and take about 40 minutes to bring you to the city center. 

Where to stay in Munich

The best area to stay in Munich is called the Altstadt (the old town). The most famous and luxurious hotel in Munich Altstadt is the  Hotel Bayrischer Hof .

This iconic hotel has hosted many celebrities including Michael Jackson.

The rooftop terrace of the hotel overlooking the entire city is a great place to go dining or just enjoy a drink with a great view. 

17. Prague, Czech Republic

Contributed by Nats Travel

Being based in the heart of Europe, Prague is a great weekend destination. Easy and fast to reach from any European country.

You can visit Prague at any time of the year, and you will always find things to do there.

Prague is perfect for 2 days sightseeing important landmarks of the historic city. Walk on Wenceslas Square, and continue to the Old Town Square to see the Astronomical clock and Church of our Lady Before Tyn.

Head towards the Charles Bridge, the most important landmark in Prague from where you will have a stunning view. End your walk in Prague Castle.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Prague:

• Prague Foodie Tour : Do you love trying the traditional food of a country you visit? Then take this foodie tour to try the best of Czech cuisine.
• Skip-the-Line Prague Castle Tour with Local Guide : Explore the breathtaking beauty of Prague Castle on a 2.5-hour guided tour, available in both group and private options. Enjoy fast-track access, bypassing long ticket and security lines.
• Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet : Experience the food and charm of Prague on a 3-hour dinner cruise. Admire illuminated historic monuments, including Prague Castle and the Dancing House on the Rašínovo embankment.

How to get to Prague

Traveling to Prague is straightforward. If you are coming by plane, you will fly to Vaclav Havel Airport. From the airport, you will take a bus and then a metro to get to the city center. It takes about 30-40 minutes to reach.

If you are coming by train, you will come to the main railway station (Hlavni Nadrazi) which is located inside the city. From there you can take a metro, tram, or walk depending on where is your hotel located.

Where to stay in Prague

When choosing a hotel, the best choice is the city center close to all the sights. You will love  THE MANES Boutique Hotel Prague . 

This modern hotel is close to the Vltava River where you can also find a kids’ playground on the island located on the river. Historical sights and public transportation are nearby.

18. Zurich, Switzerland

Contributed by Arzo Travels

Switzerland´s main city is easy to reach and located in the heart of Europe. However, this is not the only reason to spend a weekend in Zurich.

There are tons of things to do and see in  Zurich . Starting from a walk around Lake Zurich, strolling one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world – Bahnhofstrasse to exploring the old town.

Visit one of the many museums (including the very cool Lindt chocolate museum), or go on a day trip to see the impressive Alps in the nearby Lucerne or Bern regions.

And Zurich has the best nightlife in the country, while the after-drinks start after 5 pm, the nights are long with many bars and clubs to choose from.

But do not assume Zurich is only for adults who like to enjoy long nights – it is also a wonderful family-friendly city that offers plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for people of all ages.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Zurich:

• City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit : Explore Zürich on a combined city tour and cruise to see why it’s called the “city with the world’s best quality of life.” Marvel at impressive churches, guild houses, and more.
• City Highlights Tour by Coach, Cable Car, and Ferry : Explore Zurich and its surroundings on a city tour. See the churches in the Old Town and ride the aerial cable car for a stunning view of Lake Zurich and the Alps.

How to get to Zurich

The train station is well connected to other cities in Europe and once at the train station you are actually already in the heart of the city and can start exploring. 

If you get to Zurich International Airport, then take a train (there are a number of trains departing to Zurich Train Station – Zurich Bahnhof) which will get you to the city center in just 12 minutes.

You could also rent a car at Zurich airport, but thanks to the fantastic public transportation in Zurich, there is actually no need to.

Where to stay in Zurich

Staying in the city center is definitely the best area to choose from as most attractions are located within walking distance.

One of the best hotels in the city is right on the shores of Lake Zurich in the center is the luxurious 5-star hotel Baur au Lac .

This is the perfect location to rest after some busy hours of exploring Zurich.

19. Malaga, Spain

Contributed by Ipanema Travels

Whether you are looking for the winter sun or want to combine beach and culture, Málaga is the perfect destination for a weekend trip in Europe.

Located in Andalusia, this Spanish city offers world-class heritage sites, art museums, cozy restaurants, and lots of Southern charm.

When in Málaga visit the Roman Theatre and the Alcazaba Fortress, together with the Gibralfaro Castle. For the best views of the city, take a tour of the cathedral roof. 

Famous for being the birthplace of the modernist artist Pablo Picasso, Málaga won’t disappoint those who love art either.

You can visit Museo Picasso Málaga and the birth house of Picasso, as well as the Pompidou Centre, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Málaga:

• Cathedral, Alcazaba, Roman Theater Walking Tour : Explore Málaga’s highlights on a walking tour: Cathedral, Alcazaba, Roman Theater, and Picasso’s streets. Learn fascinating details from your guide about each site!

How to get to Málaga

Getting to Málaga is pretty easy, as the city has its own international airport.

This is also one of the  reasons why Málaga is a popular travel destination  in Europe.

From the airport, you can take either the express bus line or a taxi to get to the city center. The transfer time is about 15 minutes.

Where to stay in Málaga

Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano is located in the heart of the city and this hotel won’t break the bank.

With comfortable, yet tastefully furnished rooms and beautiful views of the Roman Theatres, this hotel is perfect for a short stay in Málaga.

20. Brussels, Belgium

Contributed by World Wild Schooling

Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway with its blend of history, culture, and cuisine.

One of the  best things to do in Brussels  is to stroll around the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can also try a  tour of the city’s art and history and taste Belgian chocolate and waffles . Don’t miss the Atomium, an iconic symbol of Brussels. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Brussels:

• Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop with Tastings: Experience Belgian chocolate and learn to make delicious treats at a workshop in Brussels with a chocolatier artisan. Indulge your sweet tooth with tastings and discover the uniqueness of Belgium’s cacao.
• Brussels Atomium and Design Museum Entry Ticket : Visit the iconic Atomium, a unique architectural creation and a symbol of Brussels and Belgium. Originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair, it remains the most popular attraction in Europe’s capital city.

How to get to Brussels

It’s easy to reach the two airports in Brussels. Brussels Airport (BRU) is the closest at around 20 minutes by train or car.

Most budget airlines fly to Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), which is about an hour by bus or car.

Major train stations, Brussels Central and Midi, offer high-speed trains that connect Brussels with major European cities.

Where to stay in Brussels

You can stay at  Hotel Amigo , a 5-star hotel right next to the Grand Place.

Its charming interiors and superior service make it a great choice for a weekend in Brussels.

Enjoy its proximity to major attractions and restaurants.

21. Barcelona, Spain

Contributed by Waves and Cobblestones

Barcelona is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway in Europe!  It’s got it all:  beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, stunning architecture, and top-notch museums.

Some of the  top attractions in Barcelona  are the amazing buildings designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. 

Enjoy a rooftop concert at Casa Milà or explore the colorful mosaics of Parc Güell.

You don’t want to miss La Sagrada Familia!  This magnificent basilica has become an iconic symbol of Barcelona. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia Skip-The-Line Guided Tour : Take a skip-the-line guided tour to see the breathtaking interior of the basilica. Be sure to get your tickets in advance, as this is extremely popular!
• Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour : Enjoy the Casa Batlló experience, where artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and machine learning intertwine. Immerse yourself in the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí, an architectural and design legend.
• Montserrat Tour, Monastery & Optional Wine/Lunch : Hop on a cogwheel train, explore a historic monastery in Montserrat, and soak in amazing views. Pick a half-day tour or upgrade to a full-day trip.

How to get to Barcelona

Fly to Barcelona via the Barcelona-El Prat Airport.  This international airport is only about 13 kilometers from the center of Barcelona, and it’s easy to take public transportation if you don’t want to rent a car.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Stay at the Hotel Jazz .  This hotel has a great location in the heart of historic Barcelona. 

You’ll love the rooftop terrace, where you can take a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy a cocktail after a day of sightseeing.

22. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Contributed by Not About The Miles

If you are looking for an exciting weekend getaway in Europe, consider  2 days in Dubrovnik ! Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, the Croatian city is compact but captivating.

If you enjoy history and architecture, pop into the beautiful Franciscan Monastery and the Dubrovnik Cathedral; or walk the famous city walls.

Take a boat trip to the little island of Lokrum, or go sea kayaking. Spend some time at the beach. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Srd for panoramas.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Dubrovnik:

• Game of Thrones Tour : Take a Game of Thrones tour to not only see major filming locations but also to learn about the city’s real history. Tour Lovrijenac Fortress: It’s a climb but the views are well worth it!
• Elafiti Islands (Elaphites) Tour : The Elafiti Islands are perfect for a day trip from Dubrovnik. Popular speedboat tours of the three main islands include stops for swimming and snorkeling and free time to visit each island.

How to get to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik has an international airport and it is easy to fly in from many places in Europe, including hubs like London. 

From the airport, the old town is about a 30-minute drive, and you can take a taxi or the airport shuttle bus. 

Once in the old town, you can walk everywhere!

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

The Pucic Palace is a stunning boutique hotel located right in the old town, very convenient for sightseeing and walking to restaurants.

It’s a gorgeous place to base for your Dubrovnik weekend!

23. Lausanne, Switzerland

Contributed by Happy Little Traveler

Lausanne is a beautiful Swiss city located on the northern shores of Lake Geneva. Thanks to many attractions, wonderful views, and easy access it’s a great spot for a weekend trip in Europe that will steal your heart.

There are quite a lot of things to do in Lausanne , but if you want to get the best out of your weekend there, be sure to take a lazy walk along the Ouchy promenade and admire stunning views over the Alps.

Also, stroll around Lausanne’s charming old town and visit the famous Olympic Museum.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Lausanne:

• Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards : A two-hour Lake Geneva cruise is a great choice as well! After all that, head to one of the restaurants and taste delicious Swiss food like rosti, raclette, or fondue.

How to get to Lausanne

The closest airport to Lausanne is located in Geneva, only 60km away. It offers train and bus connections to the city.

It’s also quite easy to arrive in Lausanne by train from many places in both Switzerland and France.

Where to stay in Lausanne

For a pleasant stay, you can choose Mövenpick Hotel , which is located just a few steps from the main city attractions.

But what’s most important is that this hotel offers rooms with unforgettable views over Lake Geneva and the Alps.

24. Lisbon, Portugal

Contributed by 24Hours Layover

Lisbon is a fantastic destination for a weekend trip due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

It’s compact and easily walkable, which is great if you love exploring a city on foot. Plus it’s certainly possible to see the best bits in just one weekend!

Visit historic sites like Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, and make sure to check out the Alfama neighborhood and the scenic Miradouros, all of which make for great  places to take photos in Lisbon .

Then in the evening check out a Fado performance or relax on a  sunset boat cruise !

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Lisbon:

• History, Stories, and Lifestyle Walking Tour : Explore Lisbon’s history on a guided walking tour, visiting charming neighborhoods like Chiado and Bairro Alto. Enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara and more.

How to get to Lisbon

Lisbon is very well-connected and easy to get to. Lisbon’s International Airport is 10 kilometers from downtown.

The airport has a metro station which will take you to downtown Lisbon in 20 minutes. If driving from Lisbon Airport to the city center, the journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Lisbon is also well-connected to major cities in Portugal and neighboring countries through train services. The main train station is Santa Apolonia, located in the city center.

Where to stay in Lisbon

For an absolutely stunning hotel, stay at the  Be Poet Baixa Hotel .

Situated right amongst the action, it’s the perfect place to stay for a weekend in Lisbon!

25. Madrid, Spain

Contributed by It’s All Trip To Me

Planning a trip to Madrid  is always a good idea. With countless colorful neighborhoods to explore and laze around at quaint cafés and lively bars, Madrid is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, the perfect place to spend a weekend away from home. 

When visiting Madrid for just a couple of days,  jump on the hop-on-hop-off bus for a chance to see more of the city in less time .

Moreover, if you’re traveling to Madrid during the weekend, you’re in great luck! El Rastro, the city’s most famous flea market, takes place on Sundays alone. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Madrid:

• Prado Museum Entry Ticket : Explore art masterpieces and see works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and more. The collection features 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures, showcasing the full range of Spanish art.
• Royal Palace Fast-Access Admission Ticket : Explore the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of Spanish royalty, with an immersive experience in one of the world’s largest palaces. Wander through corridors steeped in centuries of Spanish history.

How to get to Madrid

Madrid’s international airport connects the city to several other destinations within Europe and elsewhere. The drive from Barajas Airport to the city center takes less than half an hour. 

Where to stay in Madrid

If you’re spending only a couple of days in Madrid, it makes sense to book a hotel in a central location. 

B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Plaza Mayor  is only steps from the iconic Plaza Mayor and within easy walking distance from the city’s other major attractions.

The impeccably clean rooms and the friendly staff render this hotel the perfect accommodation option for a weekend trip to Madrid. 

26. Budapest, Hungary

Contributed by Flying Fluskey

Budapest is an easy weekend trip  for the whole of Europe as it sits right at the center.

The city straddles the mighty Danube River and is packed with years of fascinating history to discover.

Budapest is full of natural hot springs that have been turned into divine public bathing pools. The baroque style Szechenyi Baths is the most popular and for good reason.

Spend an afternoon exploring the Buda Castle complex on top of the hill and another on a food tour enjoying Hungarian classics.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Budapest:

• Buda Castle Cave Walking Tour : Discover the labyrinth caves beneath the Buda Castle District while learning about their history and unique geology.
• 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink : Explore Budapest’s iconic landmarks on a 1-hour River Danube sightseeing cruise. Sip on a seasonal cocktail or soft drink as you glide past Buda Castle and the Vigado Concert Hall.

How to get to Budapest

From Budapest Ferenc Liszt Airport, catch the cheap and efficient 100E Airport Express bus that takes around 45 minutes into the city.

Alternatively, there are shared transfers run by MiniBUD or pricy private transfers.

If arriving by train from across Europe, there are many mainline terminus stations that connect to the Metro, giving easy access to the whole city.

Where to stay in Budapest

When staying in Budapest, stay on the Pest side of the river. The Jewish District is full of great options, and for the best value, book an apartment.

However, for a truly luxurious experience, the Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel has a beautiful lobby, plus, you can have breakfast in the iconic New York Cafe as standard.

27. Istanbul, Turkey

Contributed by Mog and Dog Travels

Stretching across two continents and offering fascinating historical attractions, a lively nightlife scene, and mouth-watering cuisine, Istanbul is ideal for a weekend getaway. 

A perfect weekend in Istanbul should always begin with an indulgent Turkish spread breakfast. Known as serpme kahvaltı, it can feature up to twenty different dishes!

 You can walk off your breakfast by exploring some of Istanbul’s beautiful architecture.

Don’t miss the spectacular ancient mosaics in the Hagia Sophia mosque, the handpainted tiled interior of the Blue Mosque, or the underground Basilica Cistern.

If you like shopping, head over to haggle with local merchants at the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world.  

Istanbul has a breathtaking skyline, so make sure you book a spot at one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants that offer stunning panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, visit the extraordinary Galata Tower, which offers a 360° view of the whole city. 

Finally, treat yourself to a luxurious scrub and soap massage at a Turkish bath, a pampering experience that is like no other!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Istanbul:

• If you’re keen to explore more of Istanbul’s gastronomic delights, consider going on  this amazing food tour  around the city.
• Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour : Discover 3 renowned landmarks in Istanbul on this guided combo tour. Admire the Blue Mosque, explore the mysterious Basilica Cistern, and visit the grand Hagia Sofia mosque.
• Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line : Explore Topkapi Palace, Turkey’s prominent museum, and the Balkan Peninsula’s notable landmark.

How to get to Istanbul

Istanbul has two airports: the newly built Istanbul International Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) aırport.

Both are served by an airport metro service, regular shuttle buses that operate 24/7, and taxis.

Journeys by shuttle bus or metro from IST or SAW into Istanbul city center take around 1-1.5 hours. 

Where to stay in Istanbul

There are many  different areas to stay in Istanbul  but for a weekend trip, the lovely area of Galata is the best choice.

Surrounded by charming cafes, shops, art galleries and museums, it’s an ideal base. 

NOA Luxury Apartments  offers reasonably priced, spacious, chic apartments with fully equipped kitchens, a balcony or garden, free Wi-Fi, and a private gym. 

28. Dublin, Ireland

Contributed by Backpackers Thailand

If you’re looking for a fun weekend full of cultural activities, tasty food, and exploring historic sites,  make sure you add Dublin to your to-do list.

When you’re in Dublin, don’t miss the chance to explore Trinity College with the Book of Kells and the EPIC (Irish Immigration Museum).

Take a stroll through the lively Temple Bar district with nice restaurants and bars.

Visit the historic Whitefriar Street Church. It houses the remains of St. Valentine! The famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral, named after the patron saint of Ireland, is another must-see landmark.

But the highlight of your trip has to be a visit to The Brazen Head, the oldest pub in Dublin. The live music and mouthwatering food will leave a lasting impression.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Dublin:

• Guinness Storehouse Entrance Ticket : Explore the Guinness Storehouse with a self-guided tour and discover the world-famous Guinness Stout, and savor a complimentary pint.
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum Entrance Ticket : Explore the impact of a small island on the world. Uncover the stories of Irish emigrants and immerse yourself in Irish culture.

How to get to Dublin

You can easily fly to Dublin from all the major European cities, the US, Canada, and the Middle East. The airport is located 30 min away from the city center (you can take a taxi or a city bus).

Where to stay in Dublin

Stay in the charming Trinity Townhouse Hotel and indulge in spacious rooms and the captivating interior of the Georgian period.

All the top attractions are located just a short walk away. 

29. Porto, Portugal

Contributed by Random Trip

There is a city in the north of Portugal with plans for all types of travelers and budgets: Welcome to  Porto !

You may also know it as Oporto but the Portuguese name is actually Porto.

Porto is a perfect weekend destination, as in 2-3 days you can admire its many religious buildings like its cathedral (Se do Porto) or its beautiful tile-covered churches (Capela das Almas or Santo Ildefonso).

You can also admire the amazing views of the city from its marvelous viewpoints from Torre dos Clérigos or from Dom Luis I bridge.

Buy some artsy souvenirs from the small galleries at Rua Miguel Bombarda (for example at Ó! Galeria) and jump on a  river cruise on a “Ravelo” , the original boats used to transport Port wine barrels. 

Don’t forget the amazing gastronomy! The iconic dish in Porto is Francesinha, a sandwich filled with various meats, smothered in cheese and a flavorful spicy sauce made with tomato and beer. It’s typically topped with a fried egg and served with crispy french fries on the side.

There are also vegan and vegetarian versions. You will find Francesinhas in most restaurants, and if you ask local people about it, everyone will tell you which restaurant cooks their favorite one.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Porto:

•   Torre dos Clerigos Entrance Ticket : Experience panoramic views of Porto from the top of the baroque Torre dos Clérigos. Climb the city’s iconic Bell Tower at your own pace, conquering its 225 steps. Marvel at the church’s intricate façade adorned with seashells and garlands.
• Cockburn’s Cellar Tour Classic or Pairing Option : Experience a guided visit and premium tasting at Cockburn’s Lodge, the largest Port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia’s historic quarter. Witness the only open cooperage in the area.

How to get to Porto

Getting to Porto is easy, as it has an international airport with low-cost flights connecting it with several cities in Europe.

The airport is 15km away from the city, and easily connected with buses, subway, and taxis or an Uber.

If you are already in Portugal, there are trains and buses connecting Porto to most places in Portugal and/or Lisbon.

Where to stay in Porto

Oporto Home – River Front : This modern and beautiful apartment is located right in the Ribera, one of the most visited areas in Porto.

It has amazing river views and also Gaia views (the other side of the Douro River, where Port wine wineries are located).

You will be located within walking distance of the most interesting places and also near lots of restaurants.

Or why not check out the best hotels in Porto with a pool if you love having a pool for a dip at the end of the day!

30. Tenerife, Spain

Contributed by Alexander of Tenerife Is

Tenerife  is a superb destination for a short trip. Firstly, the flight from London takes only 4 and a half hours. If you are already in Madrid the flight is only 3 hours.

And with so many low-cost carriers flying to Tenerife you can often get very cheap plane tickets.

Tenerife has great weather absolutely all year round, so any month and any date will be a great choice for a trip.

But that is not all that is great about visiting Tenerife. There is such a huge variety of activities in Tenerife that any traveler, families with children, couples, and elderly people will be happy with their journey.  

You can laze on the beach, go on excursions to colorful villages and towns, have fun in the largest water park in Europe Siam Park, or look at the stars at the foot of the volcano Teide.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Tenerife:

• Siam Waterpark Entry Tickets : Kids will love it! Discover the Kingdom of Siam and dive into aquatic thrills with a full-day ticket to Siam Park Tenerife. Experience the force of the world’s largest artificial wave, float along a lazy river, and more.
• Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise : Experience a memorable dolphin and whale-watching trip on an eco-friendly catamaran. Choose from 3-hour or 5-hour adventures, with food, drinks, and swimming available on both.
• Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing Tour : Enjoy breathtaking scenery in Tenerife and experience mesmerizing sunsets while stargazing in Teide National Park. Use telescopes at an altitude of 6561 ft (2000 meters) to observe the moon and stars.

How to get to Tenerife

There are two airports in Tenerife – the south airport and the north airport. If you plan to vacation in the south, where the sunny weather is the most stable, you should fly to the southern airport. It takes only 15-20 minutes by cab from the airport to the southern resorts.

Where to stay in Tenerife

Before I moved to Tenerife, I flew to vacation there with my family. I love the family friendly hotels in Tenerife. My all time favorite hotel is Bahia Principe Fantasia .

This Tenerife resort, inspired by fairy tales, captivates both children and adults. With an incredible water park, swimming pool, and exhilarating slides, it’s perfect for families.

Plus, there’s a fantastic kids club offering fun activities like cooking classes, and exciting excursions.

It’s a great opportunity for children to have fun and learn while staying here.

31. Kotor, Montenegro

Contributed by My Wanderlust

Kotor, Montenegro is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe that can be a great weekend getaway to escape to a real wonderland.

The charming town with the maze of winding lanes dates back to the 3rd century BC, and still today, you can admire the numerous historical buildings (especially churches and palaces) in various architectural styles.

But the real highlight of the place and one of the best  things to do in Kotor  is the ruins of the St. John’s fortress towering above the city.

It’s a bit of a challenge to get all the way to the top, with over a thousand steps to climb, but the views you will see are totally worth the effort.

This is probably the most iconic panorama in Montenegro and certainly one of the most beautiful landscapes you will ever see, where rocky mountains meet turquoise water.

Since Kotor Old Town is rather small, you can see everything in one day and spend the rest of your weekend trip either relaxing at the beach or visiting one of the nearby interesting places.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Kotor:

• Perast Old Town on Island Our Lady of the Rocks : The most popular trips from Kotor include the charming town of Perast (known for the church on the artificial island in the middle of the picturesque Kotor Bay). The trips are every 2 hours.
• Private Guided Walking Tour : Embark on a 90-minute guided tour of Kotor, the city of merchants and sailors, to delve into its 2,500 years of captivating history. Marvel at the architecture adorning the squares in this UNESCO-listed fortified city.

How to get to Kotor

The nearest airport is in Tivat, around 10 km away from Kotor. You can also fly to the more popular Podgorica airport, from where it’s around 2 hour drive to Kotor.

Where to stay in Kotor

To make your trip even better, you should stay in one of the historical palaces in Kotor Old Town, such as Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro , a former Rector’s Palace.

This way, you can get a taste of Kotor’s rich past and enjoy fine accommodation in the heart of the town.

32. Reykjavik, Iceland

Contributed by Europe in Winter

Reykjavik, Iceland’s effortlessly cool capital, might not be the first European weekend trip you think of – but it’s actually ideal. 

You can visit  Reykjavik in winter or any other time of the year for an amazing experience!

Once you reach the city, you’ll find a plethora of museums covering everything from Icelandic whales to Vikings and attractions, such as the immersive FlyOver Iceland experience and Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik’s main church – from the top you can take in an incredible city view. 

It may be geographically isolated, but the capital has an effervescently hip vibe, with chic cafes lining the streets and a gorgeous waterfront – perfect for a stroll. 

Explore the city independently or embark on a  free walking tour  to learn more about Iceland’s history and culture. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Reykjavik:

• Northern Lights by Boat in Reykjavik : Head out on a Northern Lights tour (boats leave the harbour nightly).
• Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater : Year-round day trips to the Golden Circle are always popular. Enjoy stunning natural scenery and visit the Geysir area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park.

How to get to Reykjavik 

With links to main European cities and the East Coast of America, it’s easy to reach from either – and once you get to Keflavik Airport, there’s an easy coach connection (around 45 minutes) to the capital. 

Where to stay in Reykjavik

Skuggi Hotel  oozes Nordic charm. With modern bedrooms, a fresh Icelandic breakfast served each morning and a prime city center destination, it’s the ideal place to stay on a quick break to the capital. 

33. Rouen, France

Contributed by Normandie Lovers

Located in northern France, Rouen is a wonderful city, full of history from the Medieval times. You can easily discover it over a weekend .

What should you plan? Simply walk around, admire the half-timbered houses, learn about Joan of Arc and her trials, marvel at the Gros-Horloge, and be speechless in front of the huge cathedral.

The old town is so fascinating that a guided tour will help you better appreciate all the buildings that are all around you, as well as their stories. 

What a perfect weekend to travel through time!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Rouen:

• Guided tour of the historic center : Travel through time by observing the greatest monuments of the city of Rouen including Place de la Pucelle, Place du Vieux Marché, and discover the last moments of Joan of Arc’s life, the magnificent Courthouse of Rouen, and more!

How to get to Rouen

To get there, you can land in Paris and rent a car. The drive is 1h15 to 1h45 long. Or you can reach Rouen by train. The station is in the center, just a 10 minute walk from the old part of town.

Where to stay in Rouen

Plus, to make your stay even more special, the Hôtel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert is centrally located and will surround you with the words of this famous local author. 

34. Sofia, Bulgaria

Contributed by A Social Nomad

This multicultural city has centuries of history in a small space, much of the center is pedestrianized, with a cosmopolitan, Mediterranean outdoor lifestyle in the summer months.

The best way to explore is to take a walking tour of the city.

There are mosques, cathedrals, and synagogues within a city block, and finding out how that all came about is key to understanding Sofia.  

The highlight of Sofia  is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the world’s largest Orthodox Cathedrals, but the smaller UNESCO World Heritage Boyana Church has magnificent medieval frescoes.  Visit on a trip that combines the stunning Rila Monastery.  

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Sofia:

• Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Group Tour : Discover 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bulgaria on a thrilling group tour from Sofia. Experience the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. Explore the Boyana Church with its stunning pre-Renaissance frescoes.

How to get to Sofia

With an international airport that serves both national and budget airlines, Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia is well connected as a great weekend getaway.  There’s even a metro connecting the airport to the city center, that also runs to the bus and rail terminals too (the overnight train from Istanbul is also a super way to get here).  

Where to stay in Sofia

The four-star Rosslyn Central Park Hotel is in a perfect location for exploring Sofia.

Rooms have WiFi, minibars and satellite TV, an airport shuttle is available and the hotel is just 3 minutes from the National Museum of Culture. 

35. Cork, Ireland

Contributed by Amber Everywhere

Cork is Ireland’s second city and the perfect place to visit for a weekend trip in Europe.

The city is full of lively pubs and great restaurants, so you can sip a quiet glass of wine at Meades 126 or party the night away at Bodega. 

Get an overview of the city by taking a walking tour of Cork , ideally one that includes most of the city’s main landmarks. Afterward, take in the views from Elizabeth Fort or ring the bells at Saint Anne’s Church. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Cork:

• 2-Hour Guided Cork Harbour Scenic Cruise : Experience a stunning boat trip to witness iconic landmarks like Blackrock Castle and Martello Towers. Immerse yourself in the area’s rich history while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
•   Jameson Experience Whiskey Tour : Today, every drop of Jameson whiskey is made in Midleton, Co Cork. Visit to see the largest pot still and a new micro-distillery in action, as well as experience the live maturation warehouse.

How to get to Cork

Cork has an international airport about 20 minutes from the city center. Alternatively, you can fly into Dublin and drive or take public transit down to Cork. The drive takes about 3.5 hours. 

Where to stay in Cork

Stay at the Imperial Hotel Cork City . This beautiful hotel is located in the center of everything, just steps from all of the action on Oliver Plunkett Street.

The rooms are tastefully decorated, and there’s a wonderful spa onsite, in case you decide to splurge on a massage or facial during your stay.

FAQs About The Best Weekend Trips in Europe

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best cities for weekend trips in Europe.

European cities are easily accessible for weekend getaways. Paris, Barcelona, and Rome are popular city break destinations. We have also included the attractions of Reykjavik, Sofia, and Budapest as great weekend getaways in Europe.

Late March to early June and September to November are the best times to visit. You’ll avoid the busy summer period and get more value for your money. In Northern Europe, May to September is warm and dry. Further south, temperatures can reach 36°C (96°F) in July and August.

Sure! You can spend a full weekend exploring the food and culture in Lisbon or Porto, both great ways to experience Portugal.

Weekend getaways in Greece have never been easier. With numerous cities and resorts to choose from, you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the country before returning home within just 48 hours.

Croatia’s cities offer a captivating blend of heritage and modernity, with quality restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and world-facing cultural institutions. Everything you want and more for a city break!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Europe for a Weekend

Europe is the perfect place for weekend getaways. From the vibrant city of Lisbon to the picturesque town of Cork and finally, to the beautiful city of Zurich, there are many great places to visit in Europe for a weekend trip.

From beach resorts to mountain retreats, you can find something no matter your budget or destination preference. Our travels have taken us to Greece, Italy, France, Spain, and other European countries. We’ve put this complete guide of the best quick getaways in Europe with other travel bloggers who have visited some of these destinations.

From all our travels, we’ve learned so much about what makes these places unique and special. No matter where you go in Europe, there will be something exciting and interesting waiting for you.

Whether it’s grabbing a bite from an unusual street food vendor in Lisbon or taking in the views from atop a mountain peak in Switzerland, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

So grab your passport and get ready for an amazing weekend!

More Articles to Help You Plan Your Weekend Trip to Europe:

• Best European Cities to Visit for any Traveler!
• Best European Cities to Visit with Kids in Winter !
• Read this post if you need ideas for the best European destinations for family vacations !
• Here are our top five European family summer vacation destinations !
• Fancy a winter European trip? Here is our list of the best cities to visit in Europe in December !
• Here is the list of our best places to travel in Europe in kids !
• Read all about our Europe travels on our Europe Travel Blog !
• This post is a must-read if you are looking for the best airlines to fly to Europe !

Jolene Ejmont

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Eurostar destinations

Explore Europe the easy way with Eurostar

City breaks in Europe

Explore Europe the easy way with Eurostar. Go direct from city centre to city centre by high-speed train on Eurostar routes between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Simple, smart, and speedy. Whatever your city break desire or your dream destination, choosing Eurostar European city breaks means that you’ll arrive in your chosen location in comfort and style. Read on to discover some of the best European city breaks with Eurostar.

Top Eurostar destinations from London

Paris city breaks

Paris is all about people watching, as you drink coffee on a café terrace.

Amsterdam city breaks

There's so much to do and see in Holland's capital, you'll want to stay longer than a weekend.

Brussels city breaks

Beer, waffles, chocolate and culture, find out everything this iconic city has to offer.

Eurostar route map

Where does Eurostar go? Discover all our routes between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.

France city breaks

If you fancy a little time away from the crowds, head to the equally as interesting, if less packed, French cities that are ideal for city breaks. The beautiful culture-packed city of Lille is under 1 hour 30 minutes from London and makes the perfect short city break. To the East of France, you will find the stunning city of Strasbourg, also known as the Capital of Christmas. In the heart of France, discover historical and architectural landmarks in Lyon . Or take a longer break to the South of France and discover  Avignon with its Gothic palaces and cultural heritage or take a trip to the exuberantly multicultural port city of Marseille . France has so much to offer.

City breaks in Lille

At only 1 hr 30 mins from London, Lille is the perfect destination for a day trip or overnight stay.

Disneyland® Paris holidays

We all need a little magic in our lives and where better to rediscover your inner child?

City Breaks in Strasbourg

Whenever you go, Strasbourg is perfect for a short break or weekend away.

Marseille city breaks

Sun, sea, culture and gastronomy are all combined in this exciting city, just waiting to be explored.

Avignon city breaks

If you love food, culture, sun, wine and sightseeing then look no further.

Aix-en-Provence Holidays

Just a short drive from Marseille and the coast, this city of fountains and markets is a great holiday base.

Lyon city breaks

The gastronomic heart of France, this city has it all - history, culture, food and sunshine.

Belgium city breaks

Belgium’s capital Brussels  might just surprise you with its breathtaking mix of art, culture and UNESCO sites. Alternatively, why not lose yourself in the medieval masterpiece that is  Bruges , arguably the most photogenic city in the world? Another top pick just 30 minutes from Brussels is the medieval city of  Ghent , which offers a little peace and quiet away from the crowds.

Belgium isn’t just about a trip into the past.  Antwerp  is the coolest city in the country and caters for all your contemporary needs. Great shopping? Check. Top-notch food? Check. Diamond jewellery? Liège has far more to it than first meets the eye – it’s the cultural hub of Belgium’s Wallonia region, with museums and art on tap and a lively nightlife scene.

Antwerp city breaks

The coolest town in Belgium is well worth a shopping trip or a foodie break.

Bruges city breaks

Visit one of the prettiest towns in Europe and you won't be disappointed, whatever the time of year.

Liège city breaks

Liège is a city of wide boulevards, pockets of timber-frame architecture and pretty parks.

City breaks in the Netherlands

Why not wile away the hours amongst canals, winding walkways and some of the most famous museums in Europe on a weekend getaway in Amsterdam ? That’s not to forget the 600+ shops and markets, as well as the 1,500+ bars, restaurants and clubs.

But lively nightlife in the Netherlands isn’t just limited to Amsterdam. The city’s neighbour Rotterdam is ideal for European city breaks with a difference.

The famous port is also a vibrant university town, with great shopping and a buzzing night-time scene that caters to all-night partygoers, culture connoisseurs and jazz aficionados. And at just under four hours from London, it’s ideal for weekend breaks with friends.

City breaks in Rotterdam

It may not be as well known as Amsterdam, but Rotterdam is a party town with lots to offer.

London to Amsterdam trains

With its canals, cobblestone quays and buzzing art scene. Amsterdam is the perfect city for a weekend of culture.

City breaks in Germany

The atmospheric spa town of Aachen has drawn visitors for two millennia. Culture-buffs will enjoy wandering the narrow, winding streets; foodies will love popping into the many bars, outdoor restaurants and cafes below pretty pastel-painted buildings; and those looking for a restorative trip can dip into some of the hottest thermal springs in Central Europe. Düsseldorf is Germany’s wealthiest city and sits at the confluence of the Rhine and Düssel rivers. This elegant, clean and relatively small metropolis blends modern architecture, skyscrapers and an atmospheric old town.

Cologne city breaks

With a world-famous cathedral and a unique local beer scene, Cologne makes a perfect city break.

Aachen city breaks

This atmospheric spa town is home to Northern Europe's oldest UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Düsseldorf city breaks

From church spires and cobbled streets to rivers and abundant green space, this city has it all.

Book your accommodation too

City breaks to remember are made up of quick and easy travel, the dream location, and accommodation that ticks all your boxes. That's why we give you the opportunity to select your hotel and book the full trip with us.

Eurostar holidays

Sometimes a weekend away just isn’t enough. While a city break serves to whet the appetite, a longer break offers a tasting menu of treats. If you fancy hitting the slopes for skiing, snowboarding and a little après then head to the French Alps . For a longer break in France with Eurostar you can enjoy the coastal delights of the South of France or the wine and foodie treats of Bordeaux. Or why not opt for a longer stay for the whole family with Mickey and friends at Disneyland® Paris ? Whatever your holiday of choice, we’ll take you to your dream destination.

South of France holidays

There's a reason so many artists and celebrities flock to this part of the world. Find out why.

Bordeaux holidays

Wine, food, culture and shopping - all the ingredients for a fantastic holiday.

Ski holidays

Hop on the Eurostar and change trains in Paris for your ski holiday.

Frequently asked questions

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Yes, we do! Eurostar European weekend breaks cater to all your short break requirements. Fancy a festive treat to visit some of the  best Christmas markets in Europe  in the likes of Brussels, Paris or Bruges? Is a Valentine’s break in the most romantic city in the world top of your travel plans? Are you itching to sample some of the best culinary delights from across the continent?

Where are the best city breaks for summer?

Fancy some sunshine? Book a ticket to Marseille or Avignon for a hot weekend break. Visit stunning beaches and access Cannes and Monaco quite easily. Whether you’re sunning yourself in the French Riviera or soaking up the culture, history and rosé in Provence, a weekend break in France never disappoints.

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25 Amazing Day Trips to Europe From UK

• July 21, 2023

Have you ever dreamt of exploring Europe’s most captivating cities, but don’t want the expensive costs of hotel accommodation?

No problem!

In this article we’ll guide you to 25 amazing day trips to Europe from the UK. Whether it is by flight or train, all of the destinations mentioned will have you back in your own bed the same night!

In just a day, you can experience the charm of Paris, the historic architecture of Brussels, or the vibrant culture of Dublin.

So buckle up and get ready to decide on your next daycation through Europe’s capitals, coastal escapes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultural hubs, and lesser-known gems.

Exploring Europe’s Capitals

Can you imagine hopping from the UK to Paris, Brussels, or Dublin in just a day? It’s not only possible, but incredibly exciting!

Europe’s capitals offer a diverse taste of culture, history, and architecture, making them perfect destinations for day trips from the UK.

Whether you’re strolling along the Seine in Paris, admiring Brussels’ architectural beauty, or soaking up the lively atmosphere of Dublin, you’ll be amazed by how much you can see and experience in just one day.

Paris, France

Ah, Paris – the City of Love!

On a day trip from the UK, you can experience the romance and culture of Paris with its iconic landmarks, museums, and charming streets.

Imagine a train ride whisking you from London City Airport to the French capital, where you can climb the majestic Eiffel Tower, enjoy people watching with a freshly baked pastry at a corner café, or explore shopping on the famous Champs Elysées.

Don’t forget to take a river cruise boat tour on the Seine to see Paris from a different perspective and explore the city centre. With cafés and bakeries in Montmartre just a short walk away, you’ll have the perfect Parisian breakfast experience before delving into the city’s attractions.

Brussels, Belgium

From the UK, embark on a journey to Brussels, Belgium, a European city known for its exciting mix of art, architecture, cool bars, and restaurants. In just under two hours, you can find yourself exploring the stunning buildings in the Grand Place, wandering the narrow streets lined with restaurants and shopping arcades, and admiring the city’s street art and museums.

While in Brussels, why not plan a fabulous day trip to Bruges, another beautiful European city known for its beautiful historic center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just over one hour away from London, you can enjoy a drink in one of the most beautiful squares in town during summer in Antwerp and visit the MAS museum, just 10 minutes away from the Oude Markt.

Dublin, Ireland

Hop on a plane at London Heathrow Airport and immerse yourself in Dublin’s lively atmosphere, historic sites, and vibrant pub scene on a day trip from the UK. With a flight time of just 1hr 20mins, you’ll find yourself:

• exploring the cobbled streets of Temple Bar
• following the Heritage Trail
• strolling through Phoenix Park
• visiting the Guinness Factory

With Dublin’s friendly locals and walkable sights within walking distance, you’ll instantly feel at home in this exciting European capital.

Prague, Czechia

Wander through the fairy-tale streets of Prague, Czechia, and admire its gothic architecture, medieval streets, and stunning buildings. In just 1 hour and 45 minutes from London, you’ll be mesmerised by the sights of the iconic Charles Bridge and the quaint cobbled streets of the old town.

Make your way to the city centre, where you’ll find the main square featuring:

• The grand astronomical clock
• Vibrant spring events on the river
• Wonderful outdoor markets
• Vibrant al fresco bars in the picturesque city squares

Prague’s incredible entertainment awaits you on this unforgettable day trip.

Berlin, Germany

Delve into the rich history, art, and architecture of Berlin, Germany on a day trip from the UK. Discover:

• The Berlin wall
• East Side Gallery
• Amazing street art
• Vibrant markets
• Stunning parks
• Iconic monuments

These attractions make Berlin an unforgettable destination.

With so much to see and experience, Berlin is a must-visit European capital for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

Budapest, Hungary

Unearth the hidden treasures of Budapest, Hungary, and discover its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. From the majestic Parliament building to the captivating Buda Castle, Budapest offers a wealth of cultural experiences for visitors.

Take a dip in the famous Szechenyi Baths or Gellert Baths, and indulge in the city’s unique gastronomy. Budapest is an enchanting European capital that will leave you longing for more.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Venture to Copenhagen, Denmark, and enjoy the city’s charming streets, Tivoli Gardens, and unique attractions.

From the colourful Copenhagen Harbour of Nyhavn to the enchanting Little Mermaid statue, this is a city brimming with wonder and excitement.

Experience Danish “hygge” firsthand as you explore the picturesque streets, indulge in delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Oslo, Norway

Journey to Oslo, Norway, and experience the city’s scenic beauty, historical attractions, and world-class museums. From the iconic Vigeland Sculpture Park to the fascinating Viking Ship Museum, Oslo offers a captivating glimpse into Norway’s rich history and culture.

Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront or exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, Oslo is a must-visit European capital for any traveler.

Stockholm, Sweden

Explore Stockholm’s picturesque old town, waterfront attractions, and vibrant culture on a day trip from the UK. Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, visit the historic Royal Palace, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history at the Vasa Museum.

Stockholm’s enchanting blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication makes it an unforgettable European destination.

Coastal European Escapes

Looking for a seaside escape? Europe’s beautiful coastal cities offer relaxation and unique experiences you won’t forget. From the sun-soaked beaches of Nice, France, to the party paradise of Ibiza, Spain, and the romantic canals of Venice, Italy, these coastal escapes provide the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

So pack your sunscreen and get ready to unwind in some of Europe’s most stunning beach destinations. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Nice, France

Stroll along Nice’s glamorous Mediterranean coastline and explore its charming old town on a day trip from the UK. From the breathtaking Promenade des Anglais to the daily flower market, Nice offers an enchanting blend of vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty.

Discover the city’s hidden gems and indulge in its delicious cuisine as you soak up the sun on the French Riviera. Enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, explore its historic monuments, and take in the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Ibiza, Spain

Experience the vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches of Ibiza on a day trip from the UK. Dance the night away at world-famous clubs, or relax on the island’s pristine sandy shores.

Ibiza’s unique blend of excitement and relaxation makes it the perfect destination for those looking to let loose and unwind in a beautiful setting.

Venice, Italy

Discover the romantic canals and historic architecture of Venice, Italy on a day trip from the UK.

• Glide through the city’s enchanting waterways on a gondola
• Marvel at the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica
• Explore the vibrant art scene at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Venice’s captivating charm and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable coastal escape.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Why not enrich your European day trip experience by visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites? From the medieval charm of Bruges, Belgium, to the stunning old town of Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, and the rich history of Krakow, Poland, these destinations offer a unique insight into Europe’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Step back in time and uncover the stories behind these incredible sites on your next day trip from the UK. Discover the best day trips from London and make the most of your time exploring the rich history and culture of the surrounding areas.

Bruges, Belgium

Explore the medieval charm of Bruges on a day trip from London, with its cobblestone streets, canals, and historic buildings. Wander the quaint streets of this picturesque Belgian city, and be transported back in time as you admire the stunning architecture of the Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Church of Our Lady.

Bruges’ enchanting atmosphere and well-preserved historic centre make it a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Discover Luxembourg City’s stunning old town, fortifications, and picturesque views on a day trip from the UK. Known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, Luxembourg City offers a unique blend of modern sophistication and medieval charm.

Wander the city’s charming streets on a walking tour, visit the iconic Grand Ducal Palace, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Alzette and Pétrusse valleys.

Krakow, Poland

Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Krakow, Poland on a day trip from the UK. Some highlights of the trip include:

• Visiting the stunning Wawel Castle
• Exploring the historic Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz
• Taking a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Auschwitz-Birkenau and paying your respects at the poignant Holocaust memorial.

Krakow offers a captivating glimpse into Poland’s past and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Krakow’s fascinating history and vibrant cultural scene make it an unforgettable European destination.

Cultural and Artistic Hubs

Immerse yourself in the culture and art of European cities like:

From the elegant architecture of Vienna to the picturesque canals of Amsterdam and the charming old town of Gdansk, these cultural hubs offer unique experiences and unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a food lover, you’ll find something to delight your senses in these vibrant European destinations.

Vienna, Austria

Enjoy Vienna’s elegant architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant coffeehouse culture on a day trip from the UK.

• Discover the majestic Schönbrunn Palace
• Marvel at the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical history at the Vienna State Opera.

With its charming streets and lively atmosphere, Vienna is a must-visit destination for culture and art enthusiasts.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Discover Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, historic center, and renowned art museums on a day trip from the UK. Wander the charming streets of the Dutch capital, visit the iconic Anne Frank House, and explore the world-renowned Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Amsterdam and experience its unique atmosphere.

With its unique blend of history, art, and culture, Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for any European traveler.

Gdansk, Poland

Explore Gdansk’s charming old town, maritime history, and amber shops on a day trip from the UK.

• Wander the cobblestone streets of this Polish city
• Visit the historic Gdansk Shipyard
• Discover the city’s rich history at the European Solidarity Centre.

With its picturesque streets, vibrant cultural scene, and unique shopping experiences, Gdansk is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Bologna, Italy

Experience Bologna’s rich culinary scene, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere on a day trip from the UK. Savor the flavors of traditional dishes such as tortellini, lasagna, and mortadella, and marvel at the stunning Basilica di San Petronio and the majestic Palazzo Comunale.

With its vibrant markets, lively piazzas, and friendly locals, Bologna is a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Munich, Germany

Visit Munich for its beer gardens, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene on a day trip from the UK. Explore the city’s picturesque old town, attend a traditional Bavarian beer festival, and discover Munich’s rich history at the Deutsches Museum.

With its lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and world-famous Oktoberfest, Munich is an unforgettable European destination.

Milan, Italy

Discover Milan’s fashion, art, and iconic landmarks on a day trip from the UK.

• Wander the stylish streets of this Italian city
• Visit the breathtaking Duomo di Milano
• Explore the world-renowned art museums, including the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Museo del Novecento.

Milan’s captivating charm and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable coastal escape.

Lesser Known Gems

Uncover lesser-known European gems like:

Cork, Ireland

Porto, portugal, frankfurt, germany, bordeaux, france.

On day trips from the UK, a day trip abroad can lead you to the lively atmosphere of Cork, Ireland, to the stunning riverside of Porto, Portugal, and the modern skyline of Frankfurt, Germany. These hidden treasures offer unique experiences off the beaten path.

Step away from the tourist crowds and discover the charm and beauty of these lesser-known destinations. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux, France, and sample the local cuisine.

Experience Cork’s lively atmosphere, historic sites, and beautiful surrounding countryside on a day trip from the UK. Wander the city’s charming streets, visit the iconic St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way.

With its friendly locals, vibrant pubs, and stunning natural beauty, Cork is an unforgettable European gem.

Discover Porto’s stunning riverside, historic architecture, and world-famous port wine on a day trip from the UK. Wander the city’s picturesque streets, visit the iconic Clérigos Tower, and sample the region’s renowned wine at a local cellar.

With its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Porto is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Explore Frankfurt’s highlights on a day trip from the UK. Here are some must-see attractions.

• Städel Museum: Discover the city’s fascinating history through its extensive art collection.
• Römerberg square: Visit this iconic square in the heart of the old town, surrounded by historic buildings.
• Local restaurant: Enjoy a traditional German meal at a local restaurant, and savor the flavors of Frankfurt.

With its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication, Frankfurt is a must-visit European destination.

Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s world-renowned wine culture, historic sites, and charming streets on a day trip from the UK. Wander the city’s picturesque streets, visit the iconic Place de la Bourse, and sample the region’s famous wines at a local vineyard.

With its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Bordeaux is an unforgettable European gem.

Tips for Planning Your European Day Trip

To make the most of your European day trip, consider transportation options such as the fast Eurostar train or frequent cheap flights from London. Plan your itinerary in advance and research the best cities to visit during different seasons. For instance, avoid visiting Venice during peak tourist season to escape the crowds. Don’t forget to check the proximity of your destination to a train station for easier access.

Be prepared for different service standards in restaurants and cafes, and remember to wear comfortable shoes to explore Europe’s cobblestone streets. With careful planning and an open mind, you’ll create unforgettable memories on your European day trip from the UK.

From exploring Europe’s capitals and coastal escapes to uncovering hidden gems and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there’s no shortage of exciting day trips from the UK. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of Paris, indulging in the world-famous wines of Bordeaux, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Amsterdam, these unforgettable European destinations offer a wealth of unique experiences. So why wait? Embark on your next European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions

What countries can you visit for a day.

Explore and experience different cultures in just one day! Visit countries like France, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Slovakia, Denmark, and Norway for a memorable day-trip.

Experience the unique culture of each country, from the food to the architecture, and create lasting memories. Immerse yourself in the local culture.

What countries can you do a day trip from London?

You can easily take a day trip to countries like France, Belgium and the Netherlands from London! Have a great time exploring Europe in a single day!

Can you do a day trip to France?

You can definitely do a day trip to France! Visit some idyllic towns for shopping, dining and sightseeing, all within a short train, flight or ferry! Sail from Portsmouth to Caen, Cherbourg or St Malo with options of a same-day return or overnight sailing.

Plus, you can mix routes to make your perfect itinerary – it’s the perfect way to make the most of Paris!

Can you travel Europe from London?

Travelling to Europe from London has never been easier thanks to the Channel Tunnel and high-speed trains from London St Pancras International! Experience the wonders of northern Europe’s iconic capitals at lightning-speed – a perfect way to begin your next European adventure.

What transportation options are available for European day trips from the UK?

If you’re looking for convenient transportation options for your European day trip from the UK, Eurostar trains and cheap flights are your best bet!

Eurostar trains offer a fast and comfortable journey, with direct services from London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and other major cities. They are also a great way to explore the continent, with stops in many smaller towns.

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Europe day trips from London

If you’re feeling extra adventurous and are looking for Europe day trips from London, we have plenty of inspiration below. Sure, day trips to UK destinations such as Brighton, Cambridge and the Cotswolds are great, but nothing is more exciting than jetting off to a different country and then returning to sleep in your own bed. With the fast Eurostar train and cheap, frequent flights; Europe day trips from London are very achievable! In fact, it might be one of the best cities for the seemingly unachievable feat of visiting another country just for the day!

You’ll probably have an early morning start and late return back into London, but it’s well worth it for the exhilarating day trip you’ll have. Continue reading for the best Europe day trips from London.

Europe day trips from London by Eurostar train

One of the best methods of transport for any Europe day trip from London is the super-fast Eurostar train from London Kings Cross or Ebbsfleet International. Clear a short security departure area and board the train onwards to France, Belgium and Netherlands. It’s a comfortable way to travel and you’ll be in the centre of your destination on arrival. As you’re travelling from city centre to city centre, you skip the travel time to and from the airport.

Whisk your partner off to the city of love or gather a group of friends for a Parisian day trip you won’t forget. Paris is one of the easiest Europe day trips from London and it only takes 2hrs 16mins to get there by train. You’ll arrive into Gare du Nord station in Paris city centre and all of the main attractions are just a short walk away.

Climb to the top of the Eiffel tower, people watch with a freshly baked pastry at a corner café or go shopping on the Champs Elysée. Paris is a sophisticated and cultural day trip idea and you’ll be spoilt for choice at the range of attractions on offer. Plan your day carefully and enjoy the full French experience before jumping on the train back to London. An alternative to Paris city is to visit Disneyland Theme Park. The Eurostar stops right outside the theme park entrance and you can explore the magic of Disney in a day!

What to see and do in a single day:

• Climb to the top of the Eiffel tower or capture an iconic picture on the gardens of Champ de Mars.
• Visit a museum. The Louvre, Musee de l’Orangerie and Musée Rodin are all world-famous galleries.
• Walk the streets of the Champs Elysée, enjoying designer shopping and quaint cafes.

Journey time from London: 2hrs 16mins

Browse London to Paris trains on Eurostar.com

A little further away than Paris on the Eurostar is the Belgian capital of Brussels. This trendy city is a mix of art, architecture and cool bars and restaurants. It has an old medieval castle surrounded by renovated and modernised buildings and is a multicultural mix of business workers and tourists.

Visit Brussels on a day trip to experience the top sights in the city and check out some trendy bars and restaurants. There are some great places to eat here! You’ll definitely want to sample the Belgian chocolates, beers and waffles. And have you ever tried Belgian fries? The best way of getting around is by renting a pick-up-drop-off bike and leisurely weaving in and out of the city streets.

• See the main city centre sights on foot. The Grand Palace is a must and you have plenty of museums and galleries to peruse.
• Explore the parks of Brussels by bike and find a cosy spot for a picnic.
• Visit the Marolles district for a trendy collection of cafes, restaurants and stalls with traditional foodie treats.

Journey time from London: 1hr 48mins by Eurostar train

Browse London to Brussels trains on Eurostar.com

Lille is a charming French town that sits in the north of the country, right next to the Belgian border. It’s one of the first places you’ll reach on the Eurostar from London and takes only 1hr 22mins to get there from King’s Cross, making it perfect for a day trip. Being the World Design Capital and a popular commercial and arts hub, Lille is a thriving city with a traditional heart.

You have an enchanting old town that’s decorated with Flemish architecture, all surrounded by modern businesses and shopping complexes. With a huge student population, it also has its fair share of hip shops, restaurants and bars. Spend your day trip in Lille touring the city streets, checking out an art gallery or treating your taste buds to some delicious French cuisine.

• Soak in the atmosphere of Place Charles de Gaulle. This central hub to the city is alive with entertainment, market stalls and quaint cafes.
• Visit Lille Zoo for a day out in nature.
• Go gallery hopping. Lille is home to some excellent art exhibitions and niche museums.

Journey time from London: 1hr 22mins by Eurostar train

Browse London to Lille trains on Eurostar.com

Noted as being one of the most Romantic European cities, Bruges is a quaint collection of village houses on serene river. Its cobblestone streets and early twentieth-century bridges pave the setting for some beautifully romantic photos. It’s one of the best Europe day trips from London for couples. You can get to Bruges by catching the Eurostar via Brussels in 3hrs 25mins or catch a flight directly from London City Airport. You’ll get there in under an hour by plane.

Walk hand-in-hand down the old town streets and marvel at the churches, bridges and buildings. The scenery itself is the main thing to do here and you’ll want to be outside enjoying nature. For a small town with lots of tourists, it has very green surroundings and we highly recommend packing a picnic to enjoy on a park bench. Be sure to buy some traditional Belgian chocolates and cheese for the train ride home!

• Go on a Belgian beer tasting tour at a local brewery and sample some of the best beers in the world (we’re completely serious!).
• Take a long walk by the river and cover every corner of the city centre on foot.
• Shop til’ you drop in small Belgian bakeries, chocolatiers, patisseries and gift shops.

Journey time from London: 3hr 25mins by Eurostar train

Browse London to Bruges trains on Eurostar.com

Europe day trips from London by plane

Taking the train for your Europe day trip from London is easy, however you’re limited with destinations. If you don’t mind travelling to the airport early and catching a short flight, the following destinations are all excellent for a day-trip. The flight time for each day-trip we’ve selected is around an hour, but you’ll also need to account for the journey to and from the airport and check-in time.

For an energetic European day trip from London that’s great for all interests, jet across the North Sea to Amsterdam. The flight takes only 45-minutes and you can catch an onward train straight from the airport to the city centre. For the more scenic route, jump on the Eurostar from Kings Cross and arrive into Amsterdam Central Station in 4 hour and 30 minutes. As you’re only visiting for the day, a flight is recommended, however check both options for the best times and prices.

Once you arrive in this lively and picturesque city, you’ll be greeted by endless rows of canals. Take a gondola around the labyrinth of waterways or tour the historic centre on foot. The tall buildings and colourful architecture of Amsterdam make it a unique place to visit and you’ll love simply walking around the streets. Other things to do include museums, parks and plenty of shops, bars and restaurants.

• Rent a bike and tour the canals, parks and city streets. You’ll see a lot more of the Amsterdam than you would by foot and the whole city centre caters to cyclists.
• Go on a foodie tour of the cafes and street stalls to find the best waffles that Amsterdam has to offer.
• Visit a museum or gallery. The Anne Frank museum is a touching story of this iconic author, whilst the Rijksmuseum has world-famous artwork. Visit the Heineken Brewery for a more laid-back tour.

Journey time from London: 1hr 15mins by plane or 4hrs 30mins by Eurostar train

Browse London to Amsterdam flights on Skyscanner

Visit our Irish neighbours for a Europe city break from London and you won’t be disappointed. Your only regret will be not staying longer! Dublin is a global city that never fails to welcome its visitors. It’s a capital on a small scale where you can walk most of the top sights, attractions and pubs on foot and the Irish people always have great hospitality. With cheap flights available all-day-long from all London airports, it’s one of the easiest day trip ideas on our list.

On arrival in Dublin, head straight to the city centre and explore the area around Temple Bar and Grattan Bridge.

• Get a little tipsy and learn how to make whisky at the Jameson Distillery.
• Visit a museum. There are lots to choose from, however our personal favourite is the Kilmainham Gaol Museum, located inside an old prison.
• Tour the city centre and take in the jovial Irish atmosphere. Cobbled streets, cosy pubs with live music and unique architecture all set the scene for a great day out.

Journey time from London: 1hr 20mins by plane

Browse London to Dublin flights on Skyscanner

Why not visit one of the smallest countries in the world for your European day trip from London? The mountain-top setting of Luxembourg and Luxembourg city provides captivating scenery, fairytale castles and lush green valleys. Walk down the quaint streets or rent a car for a road trip through the forest and valleys, checking out cool castles and viewpoints along the way.

Luxembourg is one of the wealthiest countries per capita in the world and you’ll no doubt capture some luxury experiences too. Dine at world-class Michelin star restaurants or indulge in designer shopping and foodie treats. A trip to this glorious country has a natural beauty unlike any of the other suggestions on our list and you can tick off a whole new country in a single day.

• Take a walking tour through the historic area of Le Chemin de la Corniche. It has some of the best views in the country.
• Cycle across Pont Adolphe for more spectacular views of the valley below.
• Explore the street of Grund on foot, the top tourist attraction in Luxembourg. Quaint waterways, white-walled houses and village shops make up this cool quadrant of the city.

Journey time from London: 1hr 15mins by plane

Browse London to Luxembourg flights on Skyscanner

Just across the channel in the Brittany region of France, Nantes is a hidden gem of a European city. It’s French through and through and is alive with cool museums, picturesque river views and some cool attractions to check out. The flight from London takes only 45 minutes and you can often find budget flights from Luton and Gatwick. Start your day in Nantes with a walking tour of all of the main sights, including a grandeur shopping arcade called Passage Pommeraye.

Stop for lunch at an exquisite French brunch spot and then cross the river to the south, where the city’s most famous attraction of all lies, Machines of the Isle of Nantes. See giant mechanical animals, ride an enormous electronic elephant and generally be amazed at this unique animatronics museum. Just across from Machines of the Isle of Nantes you have the old naval ship, Maillé-Brézé, and some pretty views of the riverside. Nantes is way less touristic than other French cities and we’re a big fan!

• Check out the giant mechanical animals of Machines of the Isle of Nantes.
• Sample fine French wines, market stall food and the many surrounding cafes. Nantes does traditional French cuisine very well.
• See the top attractions on foot. A fairytale-style castle, amazing architecture and impressive monuments are all within walking distance of each other.

Journey time from London: 1hr 25mins by plane

Browse London to Nantes flights on Skyscanner

Our top tips for booking a Europe day trip from London

• Timing is critical for making your day trip to Europe from London feasible. Aim to depart early morning and arrive back in the evening.
• Compare all airport options around London, but keep in mind where you live and how long it takes to get to the airport. Choosing a nearby airport will save you valuable time.
• Leave enough time to check-in for your flights and trains, but time it right so you’re not wasting time that could have been spent exploring your destination.
• Compare lots of different dates for the best prices. For the Eurostar, it’s often cheaper to travel on a weekday.
• Plan your day in your destination carefully and write down the key things you want to see. Don’t pack too much into your itinerary, but try to see a few of your must-see attractions.
• Have a quick lunch-on-the-go and enjoy a breakfast in the airport or on the train to save time.
• Consider taking the train for one part of your journey and a plane for the other. Mixing transport methods can save you money and work better time-wise.

All of our above Europe day trips from London ideas are completely achievable in one day due to flight and train availability, but it’s super important to travel early morning and arrive back later in the evening. You want to spend as much time as possible in your destination after all! Browse train and flight options carefully to find low-cost options and times that are feasible for a day-trip. A day-trip to Europe from London is fun, exhilarating and your friends might think you’re mad! Nevertheless, it’s a travel story that you’ll remember…

If one-day is looking unachievable on your chosen dates, simply book an overnight stay and enjoy the city a little longer.

An adventurer at heart that loves anything outdoors. Beaches, mountains and amazing scenery is everything I love about travel! I also enjoy home comforts and need a nice place to relax and re-charge after every trip.

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13 Super Charming European Cities Well Worth a Day Trip

Go ahead. Get out and explore more.

You'd have to have a heart of stone not to be moved by the little streets of Paris, the palaces of Vienna , or the twisting canals of Venice. After all, there's a reason these iconic cities are as timeless and as popular as they are. But Europe is more than just these well-known destinations. In fact, some of Europe's most beautiful and exciting cities are often also some of the continent's smallest or most unassuming.

"Europe is such a great place to visit to enjoy the varying cultures, food, and history," Sofia Markovich, a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor specializing in European travel, tells T+L. "It is easy to get around Europe, but the key to taking advantage of the diversity is to pick a region and travel throughout that area." As Markovich suggests, it's a good idea to plot out your stay by region — think Western, Eastern, or Southern Europe. Markovich says this will "allow a traveler an opportunity to visit several countries on one trip," or at the very least, experience some of the continent's best cities in one go. To maximize your next European vacation's day trip potential, Markovich also suggests narrowing down your home base to a major city where public transportation is a mainstay. "Choosing larger cities as a hub provides the most flexibility and easy access to surrounding areas," she says. "For example, Munich is a great spot to stay in order to have easy access to Austria in addition to many must-see areas of Bavaria. Staying in a large hub opens the opportunity for many out-of-town tours and easy transportation options without having to spend countless hours traveling back and forth."

Indeed, Europe is incredibly easy to get around thanks to its various modes of transport, from bus to ferry, and of course, by hopping aboard its famed trains, which whizz you from one glamorous city to the next in mere hours. For example, while visiting London, visitors can make their way to the medieval city of Bruges via a three-hour ride with Eurostar. Similarly, Poland's Szczecin is a beloved waterfront city that's just a quick, two-hour train trip from Berlin. Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, isn't as popular a destination as Vienna, but it's an easy day trip from the famous Austrian metropolis (only an hour away by train) and is a perfect home base for wine-tasting expeditions in the surrounding countryside.

All of the European detours listed here are easy, convenient trips, with no private drivers or even car rentals necessary. But, perhaps more importantly, all of the cities included — few of which get the attention they deserve — offer intrepid travelers the chance to have a unique, under-the-radar European experience. Below, find 13 spectacular European second cities that are absolutely worth the day trip during your stay.

Munich to Salzburg, Austria

Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Mozart (as well as the setting for "The Sound of Music"), Salzburg lies just on the border with Germany. A fully preserved embodiment of Baroque architecture, few modern buildings have been allowed a place in the inner city, meaning today it looks almost identical to how it did 400 years ago.

The Route: The Munich-to-Salzburg route is a quick cross-border train journey : prices begin at $27 each way, and it'll take you just under two hours to arrive. If you opt for the bus (go for ​Flixbus ) it’ll cost $13 each way with a journey time of two hours.

Where to Stay: If you're in Salzburg, you want historical luxury, and if you want historical luxury, you want ​Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron . The hotel, which served as the filming location for the von Trapp family residence in "The Sound of Music," is set inside a stunning 18th-century palace with a beautiful interior and remarkable surroundings.

Where to Eat: It's no palace, sure, but ​S'Kloane Brauhaus serves classic, rustic Austrian cuisine (think wiener schnitzel and venison stew) and home-brewed beer in a warm, traditionally decorated environment.

What to Do: Take a ​ "Sound of Music" tour , or visit the ​birthplace of Mozart , which is now a museum. Or just head down to the Alter Market and dedicate your day to eating as much Austrian street food as you can.

Berlin to Szczecin, Poland

As the country's seventh-largest city, Szczecin often finds itself in the shadow of some of Poland's more popular destinations, such as Warsaw or Kraków. Nonetheless, this port city (located just on the Poland-Germany border) is as well loved by German tourists as it is by locals, chiefly for its gorgeous riverfront and locally made beer and vodka.

The Route: Luckily, Szczecin is as easy to get to as it is hard to spell. You can catch a bus from Berlin's central bus station to central Szczecin for about $17 one way, and you'll arrive in just over two hours.

Where to Stay: The Park Hotel is a little slice of luxury situated right in the middle of Szczecin's Old Town, only a short distance away from pretty much everything in the city worth seeing — including that aforementioned riverfront.

Where to Eat: You won't have to go far for this one: the Park Hotel's restaurant is one of the highest-rated in the city and offers up a range of Polish and international dishes.

What to Do: The Szczecin Philharmonic hosts a number of events throughout the year, and the striking building itself is a wonderful example of Poland's architectural eccentricity.

Paris to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

One of Europe's smallest capital cities (in one of Europe's smallest countries), Luxembourg City is known as the "Gibraltar of the North" for its vast series of medieval fortifications.

The Route: The high-speed train will get you there from Paris in just two hours, with one-way fares starting at $34.

Where to Stay: Effortlessly stylish yet also undeniably cozy, the Hotel Parc Beaux Arts is made up of rooms that feel like they've been lifted straight out of a charming, local cottage and is located near the Palais Grand Ducal in Luxembourg's historical city center.

Where to Eat: Take advantage of the country's unique gastronomic culture with traditional Luxembourgian fare (think beer-braised pig's trotters and sauerkraut) at Mousel's Cantine — and don't forget to try the local beer.

What to Do: The Bock casemates are a series of tunnels, running beneath the ruins of the old city fortifications, that leads out to large, cliff-side openings that offer not only some of the best panoramic views in Luxembourg but also a fascinating look into the city's history.

Venice to Pula, Croatia

An ancient city full of Roman ruins, Pula is still flourishing thanks to the same industries that put it on the map over 2,000 years ago: winemaking, fishing and leisure.

The Route: Many ferries to Pula are seasonal, and only run from April to October. (Note: You can find the odd ferry over the winter, but they are very few and far between, so don't count on being able to find a ride.) During those months, Venezia Ferries or Adriatic Lines will take you across the Adriatic in just over three hours, at $170 round-trip.

Where to Stay: Scaletta provides a touch of fun to a stay at Pula. Its colorful rooms and central location make it a perfect place to rest during your quick stay.

Where to Eat: The charming Restaurant Oaza serves up locally sourced seafood (a specialty in Pula) and traditional Croatian dishes.

What to Do: History buffs, take note: the city's many Roman ruins are a must-visit, especially the massive Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, and Triumphal Arch. Visitors should also head down to the waterfront paths that lead out of town to try to find some of the many dinosaur footprints that are still preserved in the rocks today.

London to Bruges, Belgium

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Bruges is a classic medieval city, which comes lined with twisting cobblestone streets, crisscrossed by canals, and towered over by the iconic Belfry of Bruges. One of Europe's prettiest secrets, the city is the perfect short getaway from the hustle and bustle of London.

The Route: The 3.5-hour Eurostar trip starts at about $140 for a one-way ticket. You’ll need to change trains in Brussels.

Where to Stay: Don't be put off by the strange name — the very reasonably priced Hotel Bla Bla in the city center is one of the coolest, friendliest hotels in Bruges.

Where to Eat: Check out Soup , a small restaurant near Bruges' Market Square that serves beer, panini, and, of course, soup. Cap off the day with a Belgian waffle at the nearby Chez Albert .

What to Do: Climb the Belfry, of course. It's the city's most famous sight, and the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking.

Zurich to Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, with its bizarre history, powerful monarchy, and tiny population, might be one of the most intriguing countries in Europe, and its Lilliputian capital city (population: 5,700) is an underrated gem for alpine travelers.

The Route: Getting from Zurich to Vaduz takes about 90 minutes. You'll need to catch a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sargans, just on the border. From there, it’s a short bus ride to Vaduz. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for the whole trip.

Where to Stay: Liechtenstein is one of the few countries left in the world that still takes its monarchy very seriously, so you might as well live like royalty yourself while visiting. And the 29 beautifully appointed rooms and suites at the luxurious, bucolic Parkhotel Sonnenhof are certainly fit for a king.

Where to Eat: You won’t have a better meal in Vaduz than at the Parkhotel Sonnehof's elegant, Michelin-starred Restaurant Marée .

What to Do: Hike out of town and take in the mountain views on the Grüschaweg Trail , or stop in on the personal cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein for a wine and whiskey tasting .

Bern, Switzerland to Lausanne, Switzerland

Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is one of Switzerland's most scenic cities. The surrounding Vaud region is famous for its wines, cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, and, as the largest French-speaking region in Switzerland, provides a French-Swiss cultural experience that nicely complements a visit to the more Germanic-leaning city of Bern.

The Route: Trains run from the center of Bern straight into Lausanne for around $20 each way, and the journey takes about an hour.

Where to Stay: The Hôtel du Port is located in Lausanne's vibrant marina and has rooms overlooking Lake Geneva.

Where to Eat: Two Michelin stars, a legendary French chef, and some of the finest lake views in town: Anne-Sophie Pic au Beau-Rivage Palace is where you want to be.

What to Do: Board La Suisse , an authentic turn-of-the-century paddle steamer, for lunch and a tour of the lake.

Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia

The wonderful thing about Vienna is just how close it is to so many of Europe's best cities — Prague, Budapest, and Munich being just a few — but Bratislava might well be Vienna's most exciting and convenient neighbor. The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is the cultural heart of one of the world's most underrated countries.

The Route: You can get to Bratislava from Vienna in an hour on the train. The cost? A whopping $12.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Michalská Brána 404 in the city's historic center, has an inconspicuous, traditional exterior, but is thoroughly modern on the inside. The city's most popular bars and clubs are only seconds away, as is the magnificent Bratislava Castle.

Where to Eat: Modra Hviezda does atmospheric Central European dining at a surprisingly low cost and is frequently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the city. Make sure to try something off of their list of traditional Slovak specialties.

What to Do: It's worth heading out of the city to take a tour of the surrounding vineyards and wineries. (Slovakia, ever the underdog, has a tremendously underrated winemaking industry). And if wine isn't your thing, the Slovaks aren't exactly strangers to beer-making either.

Bilbao, Spain to Biarritz, France

Don't let the Pyrenees get in your way. Travelers staying near the Spanish-French border should take the chance to hop over to the country next door. Biarritz, on the Bay of Biscay, is a French surfing town marked by thriving nightlife and the sort of glitz and glamour you'd normally be hard-pressed to find outside of the French Riviera.

The Route: Local bus companies will sell you a ticket from Bilbao, Spain for anywhere between $9-$20 each way. The trip should take just under three hours.

Where to Stay: You're never going to want to be too far away from the seaside while you're in Biarritz, so book a room at the Hotel l'Ocean, which offers affordable luxury in the city center, only seconds away from the beach.

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a fantastic post-surf meal at Bistro Toqué Anglet 503 which offers a seafood-forward menu and lighter fare.

What to Do: Surf, of course. Biarritz is as good a surfing spot as anywhere else in France or Spain, and the city has a prominent surf culture. If you're a rookie, don't panic — the École de Surf Hastea offers lessons and camps throughout the year for surfers at any level.

Amsterdam to Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is obscure enough to enjoy a relaxed, relatively quiet atmosphere, but also entertaining enough — thanks largely to its university and thriving student scene — to keep any errant partiers from Amsterdam happy.

The Route: Traveling via train will take only slightly over three hours and costs about $50-$100 each way. Buses also run to Ghent at around $15-$40 for a single ticket, and the journey will take 2.5 hours.

Where to Stay: Spend a night or two in the Boatel , a floating hotel in a converted riverboat.

Where to Eat: The Belgians do few things better than steak and frites, and Gillis probably does it best of all.

What to Do: If you're taking a break from the mile-a-minute Amsterdam nightlife, check out the Museum of Fine Arts to soak up a bit of medieval, Renaissance, and modern culture. Otherwise, head down to Korenmarkt for some of Ghent's more central bars and pubs, or out towards Blandijnberg for the city's student nightlife.

Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Tallinn, Estonia's capital, lies on the southern shores of the Gulf of Finland. Although less well known than its northern counterparts, Tallinn is often regarded as one of the most cultured, developed, and technologically advanced cities in Europe. Perhaps not the best destination if you're trying to get away from Finland’s biting cold, Tallinn is certainly a must-visit for lovers of the northern reaches of the continent.

The Route: Getting there from Helsinki will require a short trip on a ferry; the ​Viking Line or Eckerö Lines tend to have the cheapest tickets (from $20-$30 one-way), and the crossing will take about two hours.

Where to Stay: Set in an elegant, Soviet-era building, ​ My City Hotel is one of Tallinn's higher-end establishments, but its sumptuous interior and unrivaled location in the city's Old Town will more than justify the slightly higher price tag.

Where to Eat: ​ Kohvik Moon is only a short distance from the Old Town and serves high-end, modern Russian cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.

What to Do: Tallinn has a long history of producing alcoholic beverages — from beers and vodka to classic Estonian liqueurs. Explore the city’s spirited traditions during a private ​tasting tour .

Tangier, Morocco to Tarifa, Spain

Okay, so Tangier isn't quite Europe, but it's rather close — and how often do you get to go on a quick jaunt over to the continent next door? Tarifa, in the province of Cádiz, near the Strait of Gibraltar, lays claim to some of Spain's prettiest beaches and is one of the best spots for wind sports in the country.

The Route: You'll need to get the ferry across, of course. ​ ​FRS runs a few sailings a day from Tangier Ville to Tarifa. The crossing takes an hour and will set you back around $80 for a round-trip.

Where to Stay: ​Koala Tarifa is a guesthouse located in the city’s historic center that offers five apartments in a 300-year-old, perfectly preserved building.

Where to Eat: Travelers and locals go to ​ ​Vaca Loca , a small, friendly, and typically Spanish restaurant known for serving steak and grilled meats in a beautiful, traditional setting.

What to Do: Try out kitesurfing (or other wind sports) down at the beach. ​ ​KitePassion Tarifa offers private lessons for $65 per hour.

Lisbon to Cáceres, Spain

Cáceres is a mish-mash of cultures: the city was founded by the Romans, yet it’s dotted with medieval streets and Renaissance palaces and surrounded by Moorish city walls. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the whole town itself is not only foodie heaven — it was named the 2015 gastronomy capital of Spain by the Spanish Hospitality Federation — but is also just far enough out of the way to remain relatively tourist-free.

The Route: Since the rail route was shut down, getting to Cáceres from Lisbon takes a while — the bus journey is a five-hour trip. Nonetheless, it'll cost around $30 with ​GoEuro and will take you through some of the most stunning countryside in Iberia.

Where to Stay: The ​ ​Hotel Parador , which is part of that UNESCO Heritage Old Town, feels more like a palace than a hotel, which probably comes from the fact that it actually is one.

Where to Eat: Cuisine is what Cáceres does best, and ​ ​Restaurant Javier Martin offers up a sterling tasting menu from one of the freshest and most exciting new chefs in town.

What to Do: Take a walk around the Old Town. In addition to being unspeakably beautiful, the area is home to market stalls and boutique shops selling all the sweets, wines, liqueurs, and street food a traveler could ever want.

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Sample over 300-years of history in the simplicity of homemade scones with whipped cream and jam. This deliciously British treat is best enjoyed in the afternoon, complete with a hot cup of Earl Grey, cucumber sandwiches and a tower of sugary delights.

Explore ancient Athens

You don't need to be a historian to appreciate the significance of Athens. Your love affair with the city might begin with goddess Athena’s Parthenon temple and the ruins of Acropolis, but it’s likely to end in a quaint alleyway getting a glimpse at daily life in this ancient capital. The story of Athens continues to unfold.

Catch a flamenco show in Spain

Discover the soul-stirring emotion of a Flamenco show in Spain. This expressive art-form has an intangible cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO, merging song, dance and musical instruments into a performance that has to be experienced at least once. Finish with dinner of paella or tapas to round off your perfect evening.

View the Northern Lights in Iceland

Mother Nature’s wonders come to life with the Aurora Borealis or ‘Northern Lights’. In the frosty landscapes of Iceland, this light display offers viewers a genuine pinch-me moment as vivid colours dance across the night sky.

Spend a night at the opera in Vienna

Hear the talents of traditional opera with the ghosts of Mozart and Strauss in your presence. Though there are more than few places to catch the opera in Vienna, none can compare to the State Opera House (Staatsoper).

Our top 5 things to do in Europe & Britain

There are endless pinch-me moments to be found across the many countries that make up our Europe travel packages. But where to even begin? Perhaps a Flamenco show in Spain, afternoon tea in London or a Northern Lights viewing in frosty Iceland? Here are some of the highlights of our Europe and Britain trips that you're sure to love. 

Paris, France

The world’s largest gallery and the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is without rival in the art world and is a must see when in Paris. Allow an entire day to explore its eight departments, not missing the Egyptian antiquities, Islamic art and various halls of sculptures. End your day with sunset by the Louvre Pyramid.

London, England

The British Museum

With some eight million works within its permanent collection, The British Museum is an illustrious European landmark. Admire objects brought back from the voyages of Captain James Cook and walk in the controversial presence of the Parthenon Marbles.

Florence, Italy

Uffizi Gallery

The Tuscan capital is home to Uffizi Gallery, where the brushworks of art’s true masters can be found. Names like Raffaello, Leonardo, and Michelangelo fill Uffizi’s grand pink walls, whilst internal courtyards leading to the Arno River reveal the building’s architectural brilliance.

Best museums in Europe & Britain

When traveling Europe with Trafalgar, museum hopping is one of the best ways to understand the culture and history of the places you visit. You’ll find yourself critiquing ancient art and staring in awe at some of the world’s most prominent works. Here are some of our favorites.

Paella Valenciana

Saffron, snails, butterbeans and bomba rice are just some of the ingredients you might find in traditional Spanish paella. Despite originating from the coastal town of Valencia, Paella Valenciana is a variety without seafood. You'll love sitting back to enjoy a steaming plate over the sounds of Spanish jazz in a lively alfresco restaurant.

Beef Stroganoff

Now a staple dish in many parts of the world, beef stroganoff is best enjoyed in its birthplace in Russia with a vodka in hand. This simple dish of beef strips sauteed in a sour cream sauce offers a heart-warming taste of this country’s culinary heritage.

Bouillabaisse

The Mediterranean city of Marseille is where a French culinary icon can be found and devoured. The fragrant stew of bouillabaisse, commonly served with crusty white bread, boils up the finest local seafood and seasonal vegetables with the flavors of fennel, saffron and cayenne pepper.

Best food in Europe & Britain

Our trips to Europe gravitate around indulgent local mealtimes. With new cuisines and cooking methodologies found at every turn, this continent is simply delicious. 

What to pack for a tour in Europe

With such a large expanse of space to explore on a European travel tour, on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about European history, culture and politics when you're not enjoying the storytelling from your Travel Director.

A good book

Exploring Europe is best done at a relaxed pace with ample opportunity to absorb your surroundings. Dedicate a few days to sitting in a park or a cafe, alternating between reading and watching the world go by.

Versatile shoes

Within the space of one outing you may experience all kinds of terrain when in Europe. Pack shoes that can see you walking from an elegant restaurant to a cobbled footpath, with a stroll along the soft grass of a park in between.

A blank journal

With the wealth of inspiration tucked into every corner of Europe, you may find yourself compelled to write down notes or memories. At the very least to share recommendations with friends when you return home.

All climate clothing

No matter the time of year you travel, Europe can deliver a myriad of temperatures. From frosty cities of Scandinavia to the temperate hills of Portugal, layered clothing best suits the varying micro-climates across this continent.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

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Museum of Wander

Itinerary for Eastern Europe: Ideas for 7 or 10 Days of Travel

Mix and match these top trips to put together your perfect travel itinerary for Eastern Europe.

High five! You’ve decided on a trip to Eastern Europe, which says a lot about you. You are a curious adventurer at heart who likes something different and prefers the road less taken. You probably don’t enjoy crowds, but you’re a sucker for genuine hospitality, good food, local culture and unique traditions. And that’s why you are here looking for your perfect itinerary for Eastern Europe .

This region has some of the most captivating big cities, timeless villages, best art museums , beaches, mountains, lakes, food, history, culture, nightlife – you name it – on the continent, all at a fraction of the cost of that in Western Europe.

To help you plot your perfect road-less-taken-trip, we put together the best itinerary for Eastern Europe in 7 or 10 days. With only a week or ten days in Eastern Europe, it’s best to focus on a particular region, or even see only one country, rather than trying to squeeze in too much.

Have the luxury of time? You can easily mix and match these Eastern European itineraries and puzzle together the ultimate two or three-week trip.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Twin-Centre City Break: Hungary & Czechia by Train

Poland road trip, if you have 7 days in eastern europe.

One week in Eastern Europe is not too short. Choose two or three cities and enjoy them to the fullest, rather than jumping around too much that will just leave you feeling exhausted.

Russian Capitals by Train

• Route: St Petersburg-Moscow
• Planned by: Yours Truly
• Extend with: Baltic Capitals

Russia is perhaps the most exciting and exotic destination to visit in Eastern Europe. The whole region’s psyche and culture have been influenced by Mother Russia in recent history. Whether you’re looking for Soviet nostalgia, incredible art and architecture, nightlife or modern Europe, Russia delivers.

With only one week in Russia, split your time between Moscow and St Petersburg only. With more time, either explore more of Russia or pop over to the Baltics to extend your Eastern Europe trip.

Days 1-4 Moscow

Forget what you think you know of Moscow from spy movies and watching CNN. Moscow is an incredible city with so much to see and do. It’s safe, clean and very affordable. You can easily spend a whole week in Moscow and not get bored.

Must-Do in Moscow

• See St Basils Cathedral, GUM Department Store and Lenin’s Mausoleum in the Red Square
• Visit the Kremlin – the heart of Russia
• Let the Moscow Metro blow your mind
• Have a fancy business lunch at Cafe Pushkin
• Transport back the USSR at VDNKh Park
• Go to infinity and beyond at the Cosmonautics Memorial
• Shop at Izmailovo Flea Market

Days 5-7 St Petersburg

A comfortable overnight train will bring you to the Cultural Capital of Russia, St Petersburg . Known as the Venice of the North, St Petes is a stunner and one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Top Things to do in St Petersburg

• Admire the incredible art of the Hermitage (Winter Palace)
• Ride the Metro from one extravagant station to the next
• Take a cruise along the Neva River and canals
• Eat pyshki (Russian donuts)
• Stroll along Nevsky Prospekt
• See the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Kazan Cathedral and St Issac’s Cathedral
• Revisit the USSR at the House of the Soviets
• Take a trip to the fountains and gardens of Peterhof (Summer Palace)

The Baltic Capitals: Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania

• Route: Tallinn-Riga-Vilnius
• Planned by: Becki from Meet Me In Departures 
• Extend with: Russian Capitals / Poland to Lithuania via Belarus

The Baltic States are relative newcomers to the tourism industry. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania were under Soviet rule until 1991, which meant life was very restricted. But that’s all behind them now. Praise be!

Recent years have seen the Baltic States move up the ranks of the must-visit destinations in Europe. In particular, the three capitals, Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius, all have historic city centres with UNESCO Heritage Status.

You could easily spend several weeks exploring this region with its stunning, untouched countryside and lesser-discovered towns. However, to get a good flavour of the region, you could see the highlights in a 7-day trip.

Days 1-3: Tallinn

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is undisputedly the most beautiful out of the three of the Baltic capitals. There are many  things to do in Tallinn , including an abundance of relics from the Soviet era and some of the most photogenic cityscapes in the Baltics.

Where to stay in Tallinn:

Best things to do in Tallinn: Hotel Telegraaf

• Go an a walking tour of Medieval Tallinn
• Walk along the city walls & lookout points
• Visit the Kiek in de Kok tower 
• Explore the eerie Bastion passages
• For Soviet history, visit the KGB prison and headquarters

Days 4-5: Riga

Dubbed the  Paris of the North,  Riga is the slightly grittier little sister to Tallinn. Latvia’s capital has an impressive historical city centre and a sublime Art Nouveau district- the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world.

Where to stay in Riga: Redstone Apartments

Best things to do in Riga:

• Admire the St Peters Church & Tower
• Explore the Art Noveau district .
• Enjoy the Baltic Sea beach of Jurmala, just a 30-minute train ride from the centre.

Days 6-7: Vilnius

Vilnius also boats UNESCO Heritage status, just like the capitals of Estonia and Latvia. Although this is another medieval town, there is a much bigger emphasis on Baroque-style architecture. It’s also got a fantastically quirky autonomous district of Uzupis and a buzzing street art scene. 

Where to stay in Vilnius: Hotel Vilnia

Best things to do in Vilnius:

• Explore the historic centre, particularly Vilnius University (one of the most beautiful buildings in the city)
• Explore Uzupis and the street art
• Take a day trip out to Trakai Castle

The Best of Bosnia & Herzegovina in a Week

• Route: Sarajevo-Konjic-Mostar
• Planned by: Ellis from Backpack Adventures
• Extend with: Budapest & Prague

Bosnia & Herzegovina (B&H) is a country of green mountains with deep blue rivers and spectacular waterfalls. Its natural beauty is still relatively unexplored, and B&H remains an off the beaten path destination, despite everything it has to offer. 

B&H has always been at the crossroads between east and west, resulting in a turbulent history. You can still find the ancient Ottoman bazaars and bridges alongside trendy cafes and restaurants in the cities. Bosnian cuisine is delicious and reflects the different cultural influences that make B&H such a diverse country to visit. 

Days 1-3 Sarajevo

Sarajevo is Bosnia’s charming capital, also known as the Jerusalem of Europe. Beautiful mosques stand alongside catholic cathedrals and Orthodox churches. There are also plenty of museums about its more recent past. The Under Siege War Tour is an excellent introduction to understanding the city better.

Where to stay in Sarajevo: Apartments Diva

Must-Sees in Sarajevo

• Bascarsija: the old Ottoman centre
• The yellow fortress for spectacular views over the city
• Sacred Heart Cathedral: biggest Catholic church in Bosnia
• Galerija 11/07/1995 about Srebrenica
• Tunnel Museum
• Markale Market
• Trebevic mountain

Day 4 Konjic

Konjic is a small town between Sarajevo and Mostar. The old Ottoman bridge is one of the most beautiful in B&H, but the main reason to visit Konjic is to go rafting on the Neretva River or visit Tito’s secret bunker. Where to stay in Konjic: Pansion Neretva

Top attractions in Konjic

• Konjic Old town
• Konjic bridge
• Tito’s bunker
• Neretva river

Days 5-7 Mostar

Mostar, with its location next to the Neretva River, is one of the most beautiful towns in Bosnia. Its ancient Ottoman centre was heavily damaged during the Bosnian war, including the iconic bridge. Everything was beautifully renovated to its former glory.

Mostar itself is a small city surrounded by scenic mountains and stunning historic villages , offering plenty of day trip options. Where to stay in Mostar: Pansion Villa Nur

Don’t Miss These in Mostar

• Mostar bridge
• Mostar Old town
• Blagaj monastery
• Kravice waterfalls
• Ancient town of Pocitelj

Czechia Roadtrip: City & Countryside

• Route: Prague-Cesky Krumlov-Brno
• Planned by: Maartje from The Orange Backpack
• Extend with: Poland Road Trip / Budapest
• Recommended Car Rental: Discover Cars

Czechia is one of the most underrated road trip destinations in Europe. There is much more to visit than just Prague, and a  road trip around Czechia  is the best way to do so. Expect fairytale castles, charming villages and stunning countryside.

Days 1-2: Prague

Start your Czechia road trip in Prague, the capital of Czechia. It is one of the most popular city trip destinations in Europe because of its stunning historic centre, filled with cobblestoned streets and tourist sights. Pretty much every street is filled with spectacular monuments. Where to stay in Prague: VN3 Terraces Suites

Best things to do in Prague:

• Visit the main square with its famous clock
• Walk across the Charles Bridge
• Explore the Prague Castle
• Indulge in a medieval dinner with freeflow drinks

Days 3-5: Cesky Krumlov and Hluboka Castle

Krumlov is the most beautiful town in Prague. It is built on a riverbank with the river meandering through the city centre. The historical streets are equally picturesque, offering views of the river or the imposing castle. Near Krumlov is one of the most stunning castles of Europe: the fairytale-like Hluboka Castle, which you should definitely visit. Where to Saty in Cesky Krumlov: Monastery Garden

Best things to do in Cesky Krumlov:

• See at least one of the many viewpoints
• Explore the Krumlov Castle, including its unique Baroque Theater
• Wander around the picturesque streets

Days 6-7: Moravia

Moravia is the wine region of Czechia, and driving around this area brings you to cute towns and rolling green hills. You could base yourself at one of those towns or its capital city Brno, but you might want to tour around the region by spending each night at a different stop. Where to stay in Brno: Hotel Avion

Best things to do in Moravia:

• Explore its capital Brno for its hipster hotspots and historical centre
• Enjoy the sunset from the viewpoint at Mikulov
• Bike around the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape and visit the Lednice or Valtice Castle, or perhaps both
• Route:  Budapest-Prague
• Planned by:  Lavina from Continent Hop
• Extend with:  Czechia Road Trip

Europe is one of the best destinations for country-hopping and visiting multiple countries or destinations within just a week. Eastern Europe is no exception.

Budapest and Prague are two of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe, and in a week, you can easily have a fantastic twin-centre city break between these two beauties.

Days 1-3: Budapest

Budapest is perfect if you’re looking for an amazing mix of culture, local wine and some of the most delicious food in Europe! The castles and the bridges crossing the Danube are beautiful, especially at night. Where to stay in Budapest: Stories Boutique Hotel

Best things to do in Budapest

• Visit the Hungarian Parliament building
• Take a sunset cruise on the Danube
• Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica, Fisherman’s Bastion & Buda Castle
• Soak in the numerous thermal baths
• Learn about the history of Hungary’s Jewish people before and after WW11 at the Great Synagogue

Day 4 Budapest – Prague Train

On day 4, travel by train to Czechia. Several high-speed trains run between Budapest and Prague daily. The ride takes just over six hours.

Day 5-7: Prague

You’ll love Prague for its excellent cheap beer, hearty food, castles and culture. Prague has been a favourite city among travellers to Eastern Europe, and for good reason. It’s beautiful and offers exceptional value for money. Where to Stay in Prague: VN3 Terraces Suites

Must Visit Places in Prague

• Prague Castle
• Charles bridge
• Nuclear bunker in Prague
• Mala Strana neighbourhood 
• Check out the various  monuments in Prague
• Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
• Spilberk Castle
• Liberty Square
• The Jewish Quarter

Eastern Europe Itineraries for 10 days

With ten days in Eastern Europe, you can plan to either go farther or deeper. We always recommend slowing down and going deeper. But you’re the captain of your ship, so it’s all up to you.

Overland from Kosovo to North Macedonia

Route: Prizren-Gjakova-Pristina-Skopje-Ohrid Planned by: Emily from Wander-Lush

North Macedonia and Kosovo might not top everyone’s travel wish list, but as two of the most underrated countries in Eastern Europe, they pair perfectly for an adventurous 10-day overland itinerary. Both promise a mix of beautiful nature, dynamic cities and charming small towns. Short distances and efficient transport connections make getting around a breeze.

Days 1-2: Prizren

Start your voyage in Prizren, Kosovo’s second-largest city and historic capital. Set on the Bistrica river, Prizren is all charm, with its tranquil waterfront cafes, handsome stone bridges and buzzing bazaar. Where to stay in Prizren: Fellas Apartments

Best things to do in Prizren:

• People-watch in Shadervan Square
• Pop inside the beautiful Sinan Pasha Mosque
• Climb up to Prizren Fortress for a sunset view
• Learn about Kosovar history at the Albanian League of Prizren Museum
• Visit a filigree workshop to see traditional Kosovar silver-smithing in action

Day 3: Gjakova

Located 40 km north-west of Prizren and easily reached by local bus, the town of Gjakova is an absolute gem. Spend a night or two soaking up the laid-back small-town vibes and enjoying local hospitality. Where to stay in Gjakova: Garden Guesthouse

Best things to do in Gjakova:

• Explore the Çarshia e Madhe, the largest bazaar in Kosovo
• Visit a traditional cradle-makers’ workshop
• See the frescoes at the Hadum Mosque
• Eat Kosovar food at Hani I Haracise, a restored caravanserai

Days 4-5: Pristina

A 1.5-hour bus ride east brings you to Pristina, Kosovo’s biggest city. The youngest capital in Europe, Pristina is cosmopolitan and effortlessly cool, with vibrant food, coffee and nightlife scenes, and enthralling museums.

Best things to do in Pristina:

• Take a selfie at the Newborn Monument, a Kosovo icon
• Drink coffee at Soma Book Station, one of Kosovo’s hippest cafes
• Step back in time at the Ethnographic Museum
• Go inside the National Library of Kosovo, dubbed ‘the world’s ugliest building’
• Take a side trip to Gracanica Monastery, one of the four UNESCO-listed Medieval Monuments in Kosovo

Days 6-7: Skopje

Cross the border to North Macedonia (1.5 hours by bus). Once dubbed Europe’s quirkiest capital city, Skopje pairs an old Ottoman-style bazaar with a modern downtown scattered with grand plazas and lofty statues. A full day is the ideal amount of time to unravel Skopje’s secrets, while several day trips are available if you have more time.

Best things to do in Skopje:

• Join the Free Walking Tour for a comprehensive look at the downtown
• Get lost on the winding streets of the Old Bazaar
• Climb the walls at Skopje Fortress
• Hike to the Millennium Cross
• Take a side trip to Tetovo to visit the painted mosque or to Matka Canyon for boating and swimming
• Explore Skopje’s food and drink scene

Days 8-10: Ohrid

End your trip by kicking back lakeside at the one and only Lake Ohrid. The deepest lake in the Balkans offers magnificent scenery, hiking and biking trails, and boat trips. Base yourself in Ohrid, the biggest city on the North Macedonian side of the lake.

Best things to do in Ohrid:

• Take a boat trip across the lake to the Monastery of St. Naum
• Hire a bicycle to cycle around the lake
• Visit the Church of St. John the Theologian, Ohrid’s most famous viewpoint
• Admire the old Ottoman-style houses in Ohrid’s Old Town

After Ohrid, you can either cross the border to Albania to continue your travels or return to Skopje by bus (2.5 hours).

Poland to Lithuania via Belarus

• Route: Warsaw-Brest-Minsk-Vilnius
• Planned by: Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker
• Extend with: Baltic Capitals / Poland Road Trip

Visiting Belarus isn’t easy as many travellers need a visa to enter. There are also big differences in how long you can stay and leave the country. Always check the up-to-date visa policy of Belarus. Though it sounds like a hassle, visiting the calm and uncrowded country of Belarus is absolutely worth it .

Days 1-2: Warsaw

Start your journey in Warsaw. The capital of Poland is a beautiful city and a good prep for the former Soviet states.

Best Things to do in Warsaw

• Visit the viewing platform of the Stalinesque Palace of Culture and Science
• Stuff yourself with pierogi on a terrace in a colourful plaza
• Visit the Warsaw Ghetto

Days 3-4: Brest & Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park

Next, head to Belarus. The Brest border crossing is the best, and the city is very worth visiting. Either stay in Brest for a day or two, visit the Brest Hero-Fortress . Or head north to Kamianiuki, where you can visit the Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park. There you can enjoy:

• Cycling through one of Europe’s last primaeval forests
• Spotting the European bison (if lucky)
• Enjoy typical Belarusian cuisine, such as khaladnik , draniki , and kalduny

Days 5-8 Minsk

Once your lungs have reset, head to the capital city Minsk for four days.

• Enjoy a European capital city that’s not overrun with tourists and is very clean
• Ride the Ferris wheel in Gorky Park (or the Minsk Metro)
• Marvel at the diverse architecture: National Library of Belarus, KGB building, various brutalist architecture, and Khrushchyovka (i.e. ‘Commie Blocks’)

Days 9-10 Vilnius

It’s time to leave Belarus and head to Vilnius for two days. The capital of Lithuania is great for:

• City vistas from the Vilnius TV Tower
• Half-day trips to Trakai Island Castle
• Recognizing the self-declared Republic of Užupis (an artsy neighbourhood)
• Route: Krakow-Kolobrzeg-Gdansk-Warsaw Planned by: Zoe from Together In Transit  Extend with: Poland to Lithuania via Belarus / Baltic Capitals /Prague & Budapest

Poland is hard to beat if you want to go on a 10-day road trip in Eastern Europe. From gorgeous historical cities to beautiful nature reserves, there’s something for everyone. A road trip in Poland is affordable with a rental car and local hotels, making it an easy yet rewarding destination for all travellers. 

Days 1-3 Krakow

Start your  10-day Poland road trip  adventure in Krakow, where you can explore the lovely city with the largest medieval squares in Europe. Krakow is home to a fire breathing dragon at the castle, which is great to discover on a free walking tour on your first day.

Where to stay in Krakow: Hotel 32

Best Things to do in Krakow

• Explore the local history of the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica and the Clock Tower, which you can also climb for some views
• Visit the Wawel Hill, the first UNESCO site in the world
• Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau on a day trip
• Enjoy many local restaurants and bars throughout the city

Days 3-4 Kolobrzeg

Head to the beach for a few days of relaxation on your next stop at the city of Kolobrzeg. Here along the coast, you can enjoy some beach weather and relax. Book yourself. into the stunning (adults-only) Hotel Hanseatic , just a short walk away from the beach. Besides beach time, you can also:

• Explore the 17th century lighthouse
• Visit the Polish Army Museum

Days 4-7 Gdansk

For days four to seven, make your way from Kolobrzeg via Gdnyia and Sopot to Gdansk. All three locations are linked but it’s best to stay in Gdansk. Gdansk is a beautiful canal city, also known as the Venice of the North .

Where to stay in Gdansk: Apartamenty Michel

Best Things to do in Gdansk

• Visit the Olivia Star Observation Deck
• Enjoy a local boat tour  
• Stroll and shop in the car-free city centre
• Get tipsy on Poland’s national drink

Days 7-10 Warsaw

As the capital of Poland, Warsaw is a must-see and the perfect end (or start) to your Poland road trip . Warsaw offers excellent historical and cultural attractions, as well as modern malls and boutiques.

Where to stay in Warsaw: Moxy Warsaw Praga

Don’t Miss These in Warsaw

• Visit the university botanical gardens
• Explore the Royal Łazienki Park and residence
• Enjoy 360 views at the Palace of Culture and Science
• Attend a Chopin piano concert in the Royal Castle

Which Itinerary for Eastern Europe did you Choose?

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25 Very Best Weekend Trips In Europe

Lloyd and I always seek a way to try to travel as often as possible whilst still working and studying. Well, this meant we had to be savvy with our free time, so looking for the very best weekend trips in Europe was essential. 

This is perfect if you’re working full-time because weekend travel requires you to use ZERO holiday days. Well, unless you fancy tagging on an extra few days; which is justifiable. 

This is exactly why we wanted to share some of the best weekend trips in Europe that’ll sort out any wanderlust feelings you might have.

Plus, under each of the 25 different places, we’ve popped a link to a dedicated post on that very place. This all means you can get the full low-down on each spot without having to miss any of the weekend spots! 

Take a look, below, at some of the best weekend trips in Europe to enjoy. Have the best time! 

1.) London, UK

London is always an easy win as there’s always so much to do whilst you’re in buzzing London town. 

There are lots of places with the best views , some amazing and unique restaurants to visit , not to mention the best bars and secret spots you definitely have to see .

Oh, and that’s before we’ve even got to the most stunning London palaces and all the best areas in London, too. 

Read more: Best areas of London to explore

2.) Cinque Terre, Italy

One of the most colourful places to visit in Italy, Cinque Terre is an amazingly picturesque place to spend a lovely and relaxing weekend in.

Unless you like to hike of course in which case, you’re going to the right place anyway.

Here’s a complete guide on Cinque Terre and some photos from the 5 towns; Riomaggiore , Corniglia , Manarola , Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare .

Read more: Best things to do in Cinque Terre

3.) Paris, France

Paris as a city is another easy win though my favourite time to visit Paris is definitely in the summer. It is one of the best weekend trips in Europe if you love a city break. 

Summer in mainland Europe always seems a lot nicer and there are so many outdoor festivities, picnics and dinners just waiting to be had.

Do check out these  free things to do in Paris , dine in  these restaurants with the best views in Paris , see these essential sights in Paris and have a little fun searching for these secret spots in Paris .

Read more: Best markets in Paris to visit

4.) Split, Croatia

Not only is Split an amazing city to visit  (make sure you check out Diocletian’s Palace , especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan), but it’s also quite close to beautiful islands like Solta  and lovely seaside towns like the Markaska Riviera .

We’ve also got an action-packed itinerary to help you plan what to do when you visit Croatia in general.

Read more: Best places in Croatia to visit

5.)  Gothenburg, Sweden

This laid-back Swedish city packs a lot of fun for a weekend away .

You could always plan everything out though, in our experience, this is one of those cities where you’re best throwing caution to the wind and playing the weekend by ear.

If you have a bit more time, step away from the city and check out some of the gorgeous neighbouring towns .

Read more: Best things to do in Stockholm

6.) Budapest, Hungary

There’s so much to do here during the day and at night through one of the best parts about visiting this city is how affordable it is. It is one of the best weekend trips in Europe, and much cheaper than cities like London or Paris, too. 

Affordability is relative of course but Budapest is unique in that the affordability doesn’t come at the cost of a lack of exciting things to see, do and eat in the city.

It’s one of the cities where luxury hotels are a lot more attainable and you can splash out a lot more on.

Read more: Best things to do in Budapest

7.) Florence, Italy

My love for Florence has been stated time and time again.

With lots of sights to see , an abundance of amazing restaurants and stunning places with amazing views .

It’s probably easy to see why a weekend away in Florence is just what you need.

Read more: Best things to do in Florence

8.) Venice, Italy

Venice is one of those cities where even if you’re the most cynical people in the world, you won’t be able to help but fall prey to Venice’s romantic charm.

The beautiful side streets, gondola rides and Venetian architecture are just incredible to see and experience when you visit. Although a weekend here will leave you wanting to come back, you can cover most of the sights here in a weekend.

Do check out our complete guide to all the sights in Venice to help you plan your trip. Venice is easily one of the best weekend trips in Europe, especially as it’s a unique water city! 

Read more: Best things to do in Venice

9.) Edinburgh, Scotland

Without a doubt, the very best time to visit Edinburgh is during the annual Fringe Festival. It’s also one of the most expensive times to visit but this month with lots of free stuff to do in the city , things tend to balance themselves out.

The fringe festival is a month-long festival with visitors from all over the world and the energy in Edinburgh is pretty electric. Edinburgh also has lots of great bars , restaurants and a whole host of amazing experiences just waiting to be had.

Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh

10.) Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of those compact cities that is easy to explore in a weekend however you leave feeling like there’s so much more to see (and you would be right about that too).

It’s amazing and one of the best weekend trips in Europe that we loved! 

Read more: Best things to do in Copenhagen

11.) Barcelona, Spain

Gaudi’s home city is famed all around the world and lives up to the hype.

There’s no other city in Spain quite like it and with its amazing sights to see , a wealth of exciting restaurants to eat in an uber-cool vibe, a weekend in Barcelona is one that definitely feels like a good choice to make.

Read more: Best free things to do in Barcelona

12.) Porto, Portugal

Porto is synonymous with good wine, delicious food and a weekend getaway where you can take in some real Portuguese charm at a leisurely pace.

It’s also a very colourful city and an amazing place to visit for a couple of days (or even longer). It’s one of the best weekend trips in Europe that you can easily partner with a trip down Portugal’s dramatic coastline, too. 

Read more: Best things to do in Porto

13.) Oslo, Norway

This Norwegian city is definitely a fascinating city to visit though it’s also an amazing place to go to when you want to see the fjords of Norway as the train system here is pretty much on point and you’re no more than a couple of hours away at most from a stunning fjord.

There’s also a lot to see and do in the city of course but Norway’s true charm lies in how cities and nature seem very intertwined .

Read more: Best things to do in Oslo

14.) Prague, Czech Republic

Easily considered a beautiful and one of the most charming cities in Europe, Prague has a wealth of sights to see and free stuff to get up to that will keep you busy all weekend long.

We loved it! 

Read more: Best things to do in Prague

15.) Flam, Norway

Flam is a gateway to three amazing fjords  (which you can take a fjord safari through ) and although there’s not really much in Flam, it’s the perfect spot for a nice and relaxing weekend getaway.

The train ride here is also pretty epic by the way and one of the best train journeys in the world .

Read more: Best things to do in Norway

16.) Nimes, France

This city in the South of France looks like it’s straight out of Rome (or somewhere equally as grand in Italy).

It’s got a strong Roman heritage (complete with Colosseum) and some of the best creme brulee you’ve ever tasted.

Read more: Best things to do in Nimes

17.) Berlin, Germany

I’ll just come out and say it, a weekend in Berlin is not nearly enough time to explore the city but this is not a bad thing. Visiting for a weekend and feeling like coming back is always a good thing when it comes to cities like Berlin.

The city is exciting and ever-evolving and even my friends from Berlin feel like there are still so many parts of the city they haven’t discovered yet so you won’t be alone in feeling that way.

Oh yeah, don’t forget about Potsdam too.

Read more: Best places to see in Berlin

18.) Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is easily the one city we’ve visited the most, out of all the cities in the world and with good reason too.

Every visit to Amsterdam exposes a new part of the city and new ways to explore the city we’ve just leaned into this vibe now and have our next two trips to the city already planned.

What does this mean for you? Even if you have been to Amsterdam, a trip back is pretty much guaranteed to be fun-filled!

Read more: Best things to see in Amsterdam

19.) Reykjavik, Iceland

Even in winter, Reykjavik is a colourful city and although it feels like you don’t need much more than a day to spend in the city, Reykjavik’s greatest appeal stretches far beyond the city .

Its appeal lies in all the amazing natural wonders surrounding the city and just waiting for you to explore. There are so many amazing places in Iceland to see . So, we’ve put together a 1-week itinerary to help you get started with your trip to Iceland. 

Oh and don’t forget the food. Icelandic food is pretty great . We ended up eating so much all across the country.

Read more: Best things to do in Iceland

20.) Lisbon, Portugal

Forget a weekend – Lisbon is a city I’d happily move to for months on end and with good reason too .

The city is fun, has amazing food (yes, I keep talking about food but it’s an important part of travel) and is quite easy to spend an amazing weekend in .

Also, for some epic things to see, check into these gorgeous spots in Lisbon , it’s the perfect place to chill whilst on the best weekend trips in Europe. So lovely. 

Read more: Best things to do in Lisbon

21.) Brussels, Belgium

Even if it’s just for the chocolate and waffles, you’ve got to take a weekend trip to Brussels .

Of course, there’s so much more to see and do here but I honestly won’t judge you if you wanna visit just for those two reasons. 

Read more: Best things to do in Brussels

22.) Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is  one of the most beautiful places you can visit in the UK and every time we return, this only serves to re-affirm what we already knew .

There are so many quaint English villages to see here which just makes the list of reasons to visit the Cotswolds grow larger and larger. You’ll have the best time and easily one of the best weekend trips in Europe if you’ve got a car to dart around the area in. 

Read more: Best places in the Cotswolds to visit

23.) The Hebrides (Scotland), UK

A weekend here is all about getting lost in nature and far-often rarely-seen rural British life.

The Hebrides are unlike anywhere else you can visit in the UK and are an eye-opener when it comes to how amazing and beautiful Scotland truly is .

Read more: Best places in the Highlands to visit

24.) San Sebastian, Spain

This Basque Country city is a true gem in Spain and although it’s one of the most expensive places to visit in Spain, a trip here is most certainly worth it.

When you’re here, you can pop down to the gorgeous beach , try pintxos at every restaurant/bar possible and  have a generally great time just ambling around the city.  

If you’re planning a bigger trip around the Basque country (including San Sebastian ), then do check out this 4-day travel plan to help you get started.

Read more: Best things to do in San Sebastian

25.) Istanbul, Turkey

Although Turkey is technically in Europe and in Asia, Istanbul is still a worthy addition to the list of cities worth visiting for a weekend as it is exciting, vibrant and full of character.

There are lots of great experiences you can have here though do check out the  FCO website before you visit.

Read more: Best things to do in Istanbul

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10 Perfect Day Trips From London To Europe

Day trips to europe from london (or overnight stays).

Living in London or the surrounding counties? Fancy a day trip abroad to brighten up your week? We’ve put together a shortlist of perfect day trips from London to Europe, suggested by savvy travellers who describe the delights of their favourite destinations, what to do and see, and how to get there and back without wasting any time.

Although we’re focusing on days out from London, you’ll love staying in these places a little longer too – ideal for weekend trips from London to Europe , the majority are also accessible from anywhere in Britain by plane.

24 hours in Alicante (Spain)

You’ll have 24 hours of non-stop fun discovering this lively Mediterranean City, a sun-lapped day on the beach and a delicious evening of wining and dining by the sea makes Alicante the perfect day trip from London.

Planes leave London’s main airports around-the-clock for Alicante on the Costa Blanca, one of the world’s top holiday spots. Look out for a low-cost flight that leaves early and returns really late to make the most of your day – in summertime especially, you can party or chill on a terrace all night and come back home in the morning (current Covid restrictions permitting)!

Board the hourly airport bus straight into the city (or get a taxi), it’s only 10 minutes! Have breakfast on the seafront Esplanade – typically start your day with a thick hot chocolate drink with dunking ‘churros’ (long twisted donutty pastries) or a freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee and croissants.

Walk along the palm-lined promenade to the city’s main beach, Playa Postiguet for a morning lazing under a sun umbrella on the sands and a dip in the warm, habitually calm Mediterranean Sea.

Alternatively, take the TRAM to San Juan Beach just around Alicante bay, kilometres of wide sands which never seem to be busy – there’s lots of space for beach games, loads of traditional restaurants and ‘chiringuito’ beach bars open until really late.

Amble into Alicante ‘old town’ for lunch, a maze of mainly pedestrianized side streets and shady avenues where you can get ‘tapas’ to eat with a glass of local wine, cool lager or sparkling cava – the choice of tasty Spanish aperitifs is infinite. Or you could try a ‘plate of the day’ in a gastro bar mixing authentic recipes with fusion cuisine. Sit outside in a tree-lined square or if you prefer, enjoy a seafood platter or saffron paella at one of the beach-front cafeterias.

Spend the afternoon back at the beach, unless you fancy delving into Alicante’s history with a visit to Santa Barbara Castle, the Medieval Basilica or Alicante Archaeological Museum, for example. For dinner, it’s a personal choice and really depends on what (and how much!) you had for lunch. To recap, traditional Spanish or gastro cuisine, fish and seafood, paella and similar rice dishes, freshly picked Mediterranean vegetables and fruits, as well as international food.

A stroll along the leisure harbour past the fancy yachts brings you to the nightlife zone. Cocktails bars and terraces bordering the waters, Costa Blanca Casino, beach clubs with chillouts and infinity pools. Sip something cool under the starlight and relax to the sound of the sea. Dust the sand from your toes, rinse the salt water from your hair, dab on the deo, change into your travel clothes, and board your plane back to London after an exciting day in Alicante!

How to get to Alicante from London By plane : There are several direct flights to Alicante every day from London heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, as well as from other major and regional airports in the UK. Flight time from London to Alicante is approxi,ately 2 hours 30 minutes.

If you are looking for perpetual sunshine head over to the Spanish Canary Islands, a four-and-a-half-hour flight and the perfect place for a weekend trip from London to Europe or a longer holiday.

A day trip to Cardiff (Wales)

Cardiff is an easy and ideal day trip from London and you get to visit a new country within the UK (no passports or vaccination visas needed)! There’s lots to do in Cardiff , while small, the city is packed with historical landmarks and beautiful places to see both in the historic centre and on the outskirts. If you’re going to Cardiff on a day trip from London, the first thing to do is to get yourself some warm, homemade Welsh cakes for breakfast from Cardiff Market in the city centre.

While at the market, get local produce for a picnic which you can enjoy in one of the city’s many green parks, such as Bute Park or Roath Park Lake (where you can also hire kayaks and take a picture with the large white lighthouse). Be sure to get a pint in one of the local pubs and even try some of the Welsh-speaking-only pubs if you’re brave enough!

For a historical activity, visit Cardiff Castle right in the centre of town and the stone animals that line the walls adjacent to the castle. For a more beautiful castle, head 20 minutes outside of Cardiff (and on the way back to London) to Castell Coch which will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale, and explore the surrounding woodlands called Fforest Fawr.

When you’re ready to head back to London, go and get some more of those lush Welsh cakes for the way home!

How to Get to Cardiff from London The fastest way to get to Cardiff from London is by train. By rail: Direct train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central Station which takes 1h 50 min. By car: Take the M4 which runs from London to Cardiff and is a straightforward drive taking about 3 hours (150 miles); By bus : National Express from Victoria Coach station to Cardiff Coach Station, or the Megabus which takes 3h 45 min.

Suggested by Shireen Ahmed from The Happy Days Travel s

Catch a plane to Guernsey (Channel Islands)

The nearby island of Guernsey makes for an easy and unique day trip from London. One of the legendary Channel Islands, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. With plenty of rural sights in the middle of the island and stunning vistas along the coastal paths, Saint Peter Port is the place to see if you’re only visiting for the day.

Guernsey’s quaint capital is a pretty seaside town with beautiful views and a fascinating maritime history, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up some culture. The narrow passageways of the old town hide listed buildings from Elizabethan and Victorian times, the ancient parish church (1250), stone towers and turrets. The steep cobbled streets are made for strolling and window shopping, sprinkled with amazing bakeries and fun souvenir stores. 

Castle Cornet overlooks the entrance to St. Peter’s Port, a large fortress built right on the coast in the 1800’s to defend the city, just walk along the breakwater to get there. The castle offers various tours and activities for history seekers. The waterfront restaurants are the perfect way to experience what Guernsey has to offer in a short amount of time. Enjoy fresh seafood and other specialties, sample some local wine, and enjoy the gorgeous views of the marina and Castle Cornet. It’s so peaceful and beautiful, you might not want to come away!

Visiting the Channel Islands for more than a day? Then combine your trip to Guernsey with a holiday in Jersey .

How to get to Guernsey from London By plane : Travel to Guernsey by plane from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – the flight time is approximately 1 hour. If in central London, get the Gatwick Express train from Victoria Station to the airport (30 minute ride). Guernsey Airport (GCI) is very small, so once you arrive it doesn’t take much time to collect your bags and head out to catch a taxi St. Peter Port which is only 10 minutes away. Leaving London early in the morning and returning in the evening gives ample time to escape to this hidden gem of an island.

Suggested by Olivia from the Girl With Blue Sails

One day in Paris (France)

When you are looking for ideas to take a day trip from London, leaving the country is probably not your first intention. But did you know that Paris is only a short 2-hour train ride away from London, St Pancras. Thanks to the Eurostar train, you are in France’s capital in no time and, because the train station is conveniently located, you can start your one day in Paris sightseeing programme right away. 

Closest to your arrival point lays the beautiful Montmartre artists’ quarter, a hill in the north of Paris with the famous Sacre Coeur cathedral on top of it. Isn’t enjoying the view over Paris a great way to start your daytrip from London? Montmartre is also a great place to take a late breakfast. It’s packed with cute cafés and bakeries, and perfect for trying a fresh French croissant and a café au lait!

Now head straight to Châtelet, the heart of Paris! From here you have some of the most iconic quarters within walking distance: the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint Germain, as well as the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and Pont-Neuf. Due to the fire incident in 2018, it is unfortunately still not possible to visit Notre Dame, but the cathedral is nevertheless still a nice photo stop.

The centre of Paris is also a good spot to find a place to sit down and enjoy lunch. However, try to avoid the cheap eateries around Saint Michel, it’s very touristic and the quality is not as good as it should be. If you want to save time, you also can have lunch the Parisian way: grab a jambon/beurre from the nearest bakery – a half baguette with ham and butter. 

After a nice walk through Paris’ historic quarter, board a river cruise boat and take a tour on the River Seine. The panoramic cruises are a great occasion to see Paris from a different perspective and you will have the best Eiffel Tower views ! 

If you have a bit of time left after this exciting day, you can cross the Seine to see the Pyramid of the Louvre light up at dusk. It’s just a short walk from Pont-Neuf and you can check another Paris highlight off your bucket list. To see the museum inside you’ll need another day at least, so consider staying overnight or longer to see the many wonders of Paris.

How to get to Paris from London The easiest and cheapest way to get from London to Paris is by train (taking into account travel connections to the city centres); By rail: Get the Eurostar Train from London St Pancras to Paris which takes 2 hours 15 minutes; By Plane: Flights depart London Heathrow to Paris Charles de Gaulle or from London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted to Paris Orly. Flight time 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested by Lena from Salut From Paris

A shopping spree in Lille (France)

Lille is a wonderful French city with a variety of cultural sights, as well as some great shops! If you arrive by train, you’ll see the Euralille commercial centre right next door to the station, so you can start your shopping spree right away. However, I much prefer the little stores in the centre of Lille, so you might want to start there first.

The Old Town is truly pretty, with gorgeous architecture like the Grand Place, the Town Hall with its majestic belfry and the Old Stock Exchange. You can also visit Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace if you’re so inclined.

One of my favourite things to do in Lille, however, is stuff my face with all kinds of delicacies. I love visiting anything from farmer’s markets to really fancy locations like the Meert shop (they sell the most amazing waffles!).

If you happen to visit during the holiday season, it’s good to come prepared with plenty of extra luggage space as Lille has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

The city is magical at this time of the year and besides seasonal markets, Lille’s shops will lure you in starting with their awesomely decorated windows and chic merchandise. But honestly, Lille makes for a great trip any time of the year. So enjoy!

How to get to Lille from London By rail : The easy and quickest way to get from London to Lille is by train. Eurostar takes you from the centre of London to the centre of Lille in under 1 hour and a half. Just keep in mind that you’ll need 30 minutes to clear customs and security before you get on board, so make sure you arrive at St Pancras International train station with plenty of time in advance. Also, keep in mind that your Eurostar ticket grants you 2 x 1 access to Lille’s top museums and galleries.

Suggested by Laura from Travelers Universe

Visit Brussels for a day (Belgium)

A day trip from London to Brussels is the perfect opportunity to explore the land of chocolate, beer, and waffles! Upon arriving in Brussels, begin your morning at the opulent Grand Place. The Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is said to be one of the most spectacular squares in all of Europe. Several important buildings grace this lovely square including the Town Hall and the King’s House (now home to the Brussels City Museum).

From the Grand Place, head to the nearby Maison Dandoy to sample some of the best Belgian waffles in the city. Grab a waffle to go and enjoy it while soaking in the gorgeous views of the main square. Next, take the metro to one of the most famous landmarks in Brussels: the Atomium. You can purchase tickets to go inside the structure, or you can marvel at it from the lounge chairs in the surrounding park. After visiting the Atomium, head over to the European Union Administrative Centre for a walk around the area. Be sure to check out the Triumphal Arch, which is located just a short distance away. This monumental triple arch serves as the gateway into a sprawling urban park that also features a number of museums worth visiting at its east end. End your day by admiring the Royal Palace before making your descent to the Mont Des Arts Gardens. This elevated urban park offers the most beautiful view of Brussels and is extra magical to see during sunset! Ideally, stayover for a couple of nights and do a day trip from Brussels to Bruges – it only takes an hour by train.

How to get to Brussels from London By rail: The heart of Brussels can be easily reached from London via a 2 hour 15 minute train ride on the Eurostar, this is the easiest option if you are going for a day trip; By plane : Direct flights from London Heathrow to Brussels with a flight time of 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested by Olivia from Inspired by Croatia

A day out in Antwerp (Belgium)

Antwerp is the perfect day trip from London if you love history, beautiful shops, and great food. The capital of fashion is well-known for its famous fashion designers, Belgian beers, diamonds, and beautiful architecture.

When arriving in Antwerp central  by train, you will immediately fall in love with the memorizing building. Antwerp has the most beautiful train station in Europe, so don’t rush out of the station to go out and explore, take the time to walk around and absorb the architectural beauty.

Antwerp is a relatively small city and can easily be discovered on foot. Make sure to visit the ‘Oude Markt’ where you will find the beautiful 450 year old city hall. During summer many restaurants and bars will have terraces, where you can enjoy a drink in one of the most beautiful squares in town. The MAS museum is situated only 10 minutes from the Oude Markt and is definitely worth a visit.

Enjoy a beautiful stroll beside the city river Scheldt to get there. In the Museum you will find encounters and exchanges between people from all over the world for several centuries. Take the escalator to the 10th floor and enjoy the best view over the town. Don’t forget to buy one of the world’s most famous Belgian chocolates as a souvenir! Neuhaus is one of the best chocolates you simply need to buy!

How to get to Antwerp from London By rail : It takes 2.5 hours to get from St Pancras International London to Antwerp, you can book a ticket with Eurostar Trains. There is free WIFI access, and you can buy snacks, meals or drinks in the onboard Café Metropole. The Eurostar train will get you to Brussels-Midi/Zuid, from there you can take the next train to Antwerp with no additional costs.

Suggested by Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

A walk through medieval Bruges (Belgium)

If you’re looking to visit somewhere in Europe for the day from London, there aren’t many better places than Bruges. This city in Belgium is an ideal place to visit if you want to get away from the big smoke for the day. Bruges isn’t the biggest city in the world, but there’s plenty to do there.

If you’ve seen the film In Bruges, you’ll be familiar with the city. It’s medieval in nature, with a variety of interesting spots to check out. The main attraction is the Belfry of Bruges which towers above the city. Walking into the city, you can see it from a distance. You can pay a small fee to enter and climb the 366 steps to the top where you’ll be presented with a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding area.

Bruges is built around canals and this is a great way to explore and see the city. Multiple canal tours take place every day and this allows you to see the city from a different perspective as well as learn more about its fascinating past. To learn even more about this past, you should check out the Bruges Historium. Here you’ll learn that Bruges used to be a major trading centre in days gone by, an age the Historium recreates, referring to it as Bruges’ ‘Golden Age.’

You can’t visit Bruges , or Belgium for that matter, without trying some Belgian beer and chocolate. This is easy enough as you have your pick of bars and chocolate stores to choose from. They’re everywhere in Bruges. A beer or two and some chocolate to take home with you is a good memento from the trip.

How to get to Bruges from London By plane : You can either fly from Gatwick, Stansted or London City airport which takes around 50 minutes; By rail : Via the Eurostar train which takes just over 3 hours; By car : You can drive via the Eurotunnel. You’ll have to drive from London to Folkestone and then from Calais to Bruges, but this takes about 5 hours one way depending on traffic.

Suggested by Tom Stevenson from The Travelling Tom

Fly over to Amsterdam for the day

Amsterdam is known worldwide as a lively city full of culture and history, and since it is only a short hop over the pond from London, it makes for a great destination for a day trip! When you visit Amsterdam, use this Amsterdam bucket list to guide you to the best sights and activities in the city.

Nicknamed ‘ Venice of the North’, your first stop in Amsterdam should be the canals. The best way to get to know the canals is literally on them. Rent a boat for a few hours and navigate the maze of canals to the Singel, Herengracht, Spiegelgracht and the Amstel River.

Then go for a stroll through De Wallen, Amsterdams ‘Red Light District’. You might instantly associate this district with prostitution, but during the day it is actually a very charming and lively neighbourhood full of little bars and boutique shops.

You can’t visit Amsterdam without having visited at least one museum. Luckily it doesn’t really matter what kind of museums you’re into, because Amsterdam has them all. For masterpieces from painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer visit the Rijksmuseum, located in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings.

For modern art pieces from current day legends like Banksy, visit the Moco Museum, for some culture and local history visit the Anne Frank House. Visit Madame Tussauds for freakishly lifelike wax statues of celebrities and for something completely different check out the Nemo Science Museum, which is located in a building shaped after captain Nemo’s boat, The Nautilus.

When you feel a bit tuckered out, head to the Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s big city park to relax for a bit, or dive into the city’s food scene and grab something to eat. Opt for something truly Dutch like bitterballen or Dutch Old Amsterdam cheese, or take your pick from one of the world-class restaurants, like Bord’Eau, Blauw, De Kas or Stork.

End the perfext day with a cocktail in one of Amsterdam’s rooftop bars as the city lights up at the golden hour and the sun sets on the horizon.

How to get to Amsterdam from London By plane : The quickest and easiest way to get to Amsterdam is by plane. British Airways and KLM both fly multiple times a day between London Heathrow Airport and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and flight time is less than an hour.

Suggested by Tom & Zi from Craving Adventure

A day discovering the beauty of Copenhagen (Denmark)

Not often mentioned as a day trip from London, Copenhagen is the right place within a less than 2 hours flight. To be honest it is also one of the cheapest solutions for an amazing 24 hours away from London.

The Danish capital is beautiful and the city centre completely walkable, which is a plus planning a day trip from London. However, walking distances can be one of the obstacles of spending a single day in Copenhagen . Instead of using efficient public transport, you can explore more in less time.

You should visit Rosenborg Castle, one of the most suggestive palaces in the city. The Danish Royal Family still lives here. If you are lucky enough and arrive at the Palace Courtyard before 10 am, you can see the Change of Guard. It is not as impressive as the one at Buckingham Palace but still very suggestive. Other incredible spots to discover in Copenhagen are the Round Tower, the highest point of the city, the amusement Tivoli Park, and the walk along the Nyhavn.

While exploring Copenhagen you might also visit Amalienborg Palace, another awesome building in the Danish Capital, with a completely different style compared to Rosenborg Palace. Not too far away there is the Little Mermaid, the statue symbol of Copenhagen, which welcomes sailors and boats to Copenhagen Harbour. The statue was inspired by the Danish author Hans Christian Anderson.

As you can see Copenhagen is the ideal city to explore in a day out from London. It doesn’t matter which season you are travelling, Copenhagen can welcome tourists and offer the perfect winter escape, but also a relaxing summer. Also, you can consider Copenhagen just as a day trip before moving on the other side, exploring Malmoe, in Sweden just crossing the beautiful Øresund Bridge.

How to get to Copenhagen from London By plane : Copenhagen has daily connections from London Heathrow Airport and Stansted, and the flight takes just under 2 hours. The ticket is not expensive and purchasing it in advance can make the difference.

Suggested by Alessia & Toti from Italian Trip Abroad

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8 Comments:

I love how close London is to so many beautiful places!! I’ve added Guernsey to my to-visit list!!

I lived in London as a kid and never got bored, we were always going on day trips to interesting places! Didn’t get to the Channel Islands though, so Guernsey is still on my wishlist!

That’s a great list of suggestions!! I would have never thought of Alicante! Thanks for this :-)

We live near Alicante and love it here!

Fantastic article. Love these recommendations!

There are some lovely places to see near London!

Love all of these day trip ideas! I can’t believe how easy it is to reach so many places from London :)

That’s the joy of living in London or the majority of capital cities around the world, there are so many interesting places to visit within easy reach!

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35 Best Day Trips Across Europe

Imagine being able to explore a whole new destination just in one day!

The biggest perk of traveling across Europe is that you can hop to explore multiple destinations without much hassle. Thanks to the Schengen visa, you can cover a whole range of destinations easily. The Eurail pass makes traveling across cities look like a cake-walk, especially when you want to take day trips. Most importantly, it’s hands-on and cheap on the pocket.

There are also options like bus journeys and road trips.

So, to make the most of these services and travel more, we asked some of the best travel bloggers across the globe to share their pick for the best day trip destinations across Europe!

Here’s what they had to suggest:

Best Day Trips Across Europe

Peterhof palace from st. petersburg, russia.

The magnificent Peterhof Palace is the number-one day trip from St. Petersburg and a must-see attraction. This series of palaces and gardens located in the Russian town of Petergof was laid out on the orders of Peter the Great and is often dubbed the Russian Versailles. The palace complex together with the city center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s best to visit from May to mid-September when the fountains are flowing and the park is in bloom. Buy your tickets to the popular Lower Park online in advance to avoid long queues. Boat trips run in the summer months and are the most convenient and enjoyable way to get there. From St. Petersburg, hydrofoils leave from the docks in front of the Winter Palace. A cheaper but less convenient transport option is to take the metro and bus.

The top attraction at Peterhof is the Grand Cascade fountain, which spectacularly extends down the bluff from the Samson Fountain toward the Baltic Sea. All of the Peterhof fountains operate without the use of pumps; water is supplied from natural springs through the force of gravity alone. Try to arrive at Peterhof by 11 am to witness the fountains’ musical daily opening ceremony, but prepared to be jostled by tourists vying for the best shot!

Suggested by Ingrid Truemper | Second-Half Travels

Barentsburg & Pyramiden from Longyearbyen, Norway

Svalbard may be on many travelers’ bucket lists. While there are many other activities you can do outside the capital of Longyearbyen, I highly recommend a day trip to Barentsburg and Pyramiden. These two small mining towns are awesome places you won’t soon forget.

The Svalbard Treaty of 1920 allows any nation to develop commercial activities in Svalbard. The Soviets took advantage of this to establish two coal mining towns in Svalbard: Pyramiden in 1910 (started by Sweden and sold to the Soviets) and Barentsburg in 1932. The two towns took very different paths. Pyramiden was abandoned in the late 1990s, while Barentsburg still maintains its status as an active Russian coal mining town.

Several hundred people live in Barentsburg and you can visit this small, isolated town for a tour. Barentsburg has a wooden Orthodox church, a small post office, hotel, hospital, and town center – and it comes complete with a small brewery.

Pyramiden was completely abandoned in 1998 after a plane crash killed most of its inhabitants. Arrange a tour see some of the eerie remaining buildings. You can also come face-to-face with a bust of Lenin. It’s the northernmost bust of Lenin if you’re keeping track! It is definitely a very unique experience.

To get to these places, you need to book a cruise to either one or both locations. There are several companies that offer these cruises – I joined the Arctic Explorer AS. They offer a day trip for around US $450.

Suggested by Halef & Michael | The Round The World Guys

Dragør from Copenhagen, Denmark 

Take a day to visit under-the-radar yet worth a visit Danish town of Dragør when in Copenhagen. Just 12 km away, Dragør is a perfect short getaway from the hustle and bustle of Copenhagen. You can catch a bus 350S, or rent a car or bicycle to reach the lovely village.

Founded by Dutch settlers, Dragør is a classic medieval town with its narrow cobblestone streets lined with 18th-century low-thatched roof houses tastefully decorated with vibrant flowers. Dragør is so pretty that it’s impossible to not fall in love with it.

The scenic old harbor in Dragør is alive with pretty cafes and restaurants where you can sit, relax and enjoy the picturesque Øresund Bridge as it spans across to Sweden.

Dragør is one of the best-preserved villages in Denmark. Interestingly, locals work as volunteers to maintain the uniqueness of the village. National Trust protects the traditional low-thatched roof yellow houses. Few of them have also been listed as historical heritage sites.

Dragør Fort Hotel is one of the most unique and coolest hotels to stay in Dragør. Located right in the harbor, Strandhotel is all about cozy vibes, mesmerizing ocean views, and good food. Nam Nam Is , a traditional house converted into an ice-cream shop serves the best organic ice-cream and super delicious waffles.

Dragør is a pedestrian as well as a bike-friendly town with little or no traffic. Taking a walking tour is the best way to explore the city’s spirited heritage. Dragør tourist office conducts tourist city walks. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike to discover the essence of Dragør.

Suggested by Anjali Chawla | Travel Melodies

Česky Krumlov from Prague, Czechia

One of the best day trip destinations in Europe has to be Česky Krumlov , a beautiful fairy-tale Czech town, 2-3 hours away from Prague .  You can easily take a  Cesky Krumlov day trip from Prague  by train, bus or with a tour group, and although Česky Krumlov is definitely worth spending more time there if you can, a day trip is just enough time to see the highlights.

A free walking tour is a good introduction to the town, as the guide shares information on the history of Česky Krumlov as they show you around the cobbled streets.  The Church of St. Vitus is the second highest building in Česky Krumlov, don’t miss the chance to take a look inside.  The best views of the town are from Česky Krumlov Castle, the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic after Prague.  You can climb the tower for a small fee for wonderful views of the town or pay to go inside and explore the rooms.  Walking around the castle grounds is free of charge, and the view from outside the castle gardens is definitely worth the walk!

Česky Krumlov also has various museums you can visit, such as the Egon Schiele art museum and Česky Krumlov Regional Museum, as well as a large monastery.  Although Česky Krumlov is even more magical during the winter snow, in the summer there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from rafting in the river to horseback riding and hiking.

Suggested by Claire Sturzaker | Tales of a Backpacker

Omiš from Split, Croatia

Omiš is the perfect day trip from Split . You can get there by car or bus in under an hour. There are lots of parking options in the town, so you shouldn’t have an issue finding a spot even in the high season. Omiš offers a wide variety of activities for visitors. The Cetina river flows into the sea here, which makes the sea temperate colder than other parts of Croatia. Omiš is still a popular beach destination and you can have a refreshing swim on hot summer days. Adventure lovers can go rafting or canyoning on the Cetina river. There is even a hidden cave behind a waterfall that you can explore. It is a really cool experience. Zip lining is another popular activity in the area. It is a very exhilarating feeling going on the wires with high speed. The 8 wires offer gorgeous views to the Cetina Canyon under you. However, if you are looking for amazing views without the excitement you can hike up to Starigrad Fortress. The 2 hour round trip hike can be exhausting, especially on hot summer days, but it is well worth the effort. From the top, you will have gorgeous views of Omiš and the nearby area. Don’t miss the opportunity to do this day trip from Split if you have the chance!

Suggested by Krix Eniko | Travel Hacker Girl

Delphi from Athens, Greece

If there’s one day trip that I suggest people take when visiting Athens, it’s the day trip to Delphi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is easily reached from Athens whether traveling independently or on a day tour, and is one of the best archaeological sites in Greece.

Delphi was considered by the Ancient Greeks to be the Navel of the World, and its importance was both spiritual and political. People would travel from all over the Mediterranean to listen to prophecies which would then determine what colonies should be founded, marriages made, and even wars declared. In addition, Athletic games were also held at Delphi which had both religious and competitive significance.

The UNESCO Site of Delphi itself has a rather special setting nestled beneath some imposing hills. The views from the top of the temple complex are simply amazing, and many visitors comment on the ‘special feeling’ they get when visiting the site.

In addition to the temple complex itself, an interpretive museum (one of the best in Greece) also gives context to Delphi and its history. Visitors to Delphi should allow around four hours to see the site and museum.

For more information on the site, check out Dave’s guide to Delphi in Greece .

Suggested by By Dave | Dave’s Travel Pages

Montreux from Geneva, Switzerland

Montreux is a small town on the edge of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. It is an easy day trip from Geneva taking just one hour on the train or by car, Montreux’s main attraction is UNESCO listed Chillon Castle which is located on a tiny island. Its exact age is unknown but it first appeared in written texts in 1150. It’s been used as a fort, an administrative center, and a prison and, today, you can visit. In addition to walking through the castle, there are often workshops and events.

If you are a Queen fan, Montreux is where they recorded some of their music and you visit the exhibit Queen: The Studio Experience in Montreux Mountain Studios as well as check out the Freddie Mercury statue on the waterfront.

Montreux is also the starting point for the train up Rochers-de-Naye. At 2042 meters, there are great views from here both at the top and on the way up. There are hiking and wildlife parks in summer or an alpine park and skiing in winter.

For wine lovers, you can pop into the UNESCO-listed Lavaux Vineyards on the way to or from Montreux.

Montreux is especially a great place to visit during its Jazz Festival in summer and it’s Christmas festival , Montreux Noel, in the month leading up to Christmas.

Suggested by Sharon | Simpler And Smarter

Lisse from Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Lisse is quite possibly the most sought-after day trip destinations in Europe in Spring. Less than an hour away from Amsterdam by bus, this is one destination you can easily squeeze in even in a 3-day Amsterdam itinerary . Every year during Spring the entire country dresses up in colorful blossoms, and Lisse is the center of attraction with vast stretches of Tulip fields and the famous Keukenhof garden Keukenhof Tulip festival is the world’s largest flower show and it is highly recommended that you book the tickets online in advance. We went there on a Monday and were stunned by how crowded it was with tourists all over the world. The flower shows are indeed a visual spectacle that will be etched in your memories forever. After you are done with the garden you can take a boat ride into the actual tulip fields where the flowers are cultivated. The best time to take a day trip to Lisse is during the blossom season from late March to early May, but there are other attractions too open all year. The tulip museum showcasing the history of tulip cultivation in Holland, the medieval castles like Keukenhof Castle, Huys Dever, and Tylingen represent the spectacular Dutch architecture and testimony to Holland’s history. You can easily spend 4-5 hours in the garden and return or explore some of these places too for the rest of the day.

Suggested by Sinjana Ghosh | Backpack & Explore

Day Trips Across Europe: Bulgaria

Belogradchik from sofia, bulgaria.

At the beginning of 2018, I found a cheap flight to Sofia – without really knowing what to expect from Bulgaria. I googled some places and stumbled upon Belogradchik – which looked really interesting. Pretty soon it was clear for me: I want to do a day trip from Sofia to Belogradchick .

To get there from Sofia, you can actually choose two different routes: One leading through Bulgarian hills and mountains, which we choose in the morning – and the other on one of the main highways. A quick note: The streets in Bulgaria (even the highway) are in a bad condition – so I would suggest to not take the hill route when it’s dark, rainy or even snowy.

Once we arrived in Belogradchick we were fascinated by the surrounding area – it almost looked like we arrived on another planet. Additionally, there were almost no other tourists – so we could totally enjoy the place. As we had some time left, we randomly explored the nearby Magura Cave, which contains human paintings that are several thousand years old – and was one of the highlights of my Bulgaria trip.

If you have some more time you can even take another detour to Baba Vida castle – which is located at the border to Romania, right next to the Danube. Overall, the day trip from Sofia to Belogradchick was a true adventure – with many highlights and only a few drawbacks. I can just suggest you try it out when staying in Sofia!

Suggested by Michael Gerber | MSC Gerber

Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia, Bulgaria

What do you look for in a day trip? As we spend most of our time in cities, we are always craving nature adventures and stunning scenery to make our trips even more special.

When we went to Bulgaria, exploring the mountains was a priority, but after planning for our Bulgaria itinerary we were only able to fit the Rila mountains in one day. It ended up being a wonderful day trip from Sofia, and without a doubt one of the best we’ve ever done in Europe.

Rila is the highest mountain range in the Balkans, and to make it even more special, it is filled with countless glacial lakes. The Seven Rila Lakes are the most famous, and the area offers plenty of options for hiking trails – both for experienced and beginner level hikers. There is a lift that takes you to the lower lakes and shortens the hike to the highest viewpoints, allowing you to have plenty of time to get there (and of course, come back) only as a day trip.

Even though you can’t visit as a day trip using public transportation, there are great private transfer options, that are affordable and tailored to your needs.

If hiking is not your thing, still consider a day trip from Sofia to the Rila mountains, but visit the Rila Monastery instead – it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is over a thousand years old.

Suggested by Maria & Rui | Two Find A Way

Day Trips Across Europe: Slovakia

Bratislava, slovakia from vienna, austria.

Bratislava, Slovakia is situated just an hour and a half east of Vienna, Austria, making it an easy and ideal day trip. With a picturesque, pedestrian-only old town, an ancient castle perched on a hill, and quirky statues scattered across the city, the capital of Slovakia is a mixture of culture, history, and fun.

Bratislava is easy and quick to get to from Vienna by car, train, or bus. As you arrive in Bratislava, you will notice the prominent and iconic Bratislava Castle looming over the city. It houses various Slovak National Museum exhibitions which are especially interesting for history lovers.

After touring the museum, spend some time exploring the beautiful streets. A great way to do so is by joining a free old town walking tour, which not only takes you by many of the top sites but gives you some background information on the city itself. As you explore old town Bratislava, keep your eyes peeled for all the peculiar and sometimes humorous bronze statues randomly scattered throughout the streets.

And don’t leave Bratislava without visiting Devin Castle. Perched high above the water where the Danube and Morava rivers meet, the ancient ruins of Devin Castle are fascinating and offer stunning views looking back across the river into Austria.

Read more about visiting Bratislava in a day .

Suggested by Melissa | Parenthood & Passports

Spišská Nová Ves from Košice, Slovakia

An easy hourlong train ride away from Slovakia’s second city, Košice, the town of Spišská Nová Ves makes for a leisurely day trip.

The small town boasts Europe’s biggest lens-shaped square, punctuated by the impressive Roman Catholic Parish Church of Virgin Mary’s Ascension. The 14th-century Gothic temple has the tallest church tower in the country, at 87 meters. The 155-step ascent up the tower takes you past its seven clocks for a 360-degree view of the city and the High Tatra Mountains to the northwest. On the square, visit the regional museum at the Province House, whose facade bears a coded inscription, or the gallery of regional artists. Have lunch at the Reduta Theater Restaurant and make a wish at the bell-shaped Tribute statue.

In the summer, stroll through the annual fair, a more than 600-year tradition, or the much more recent graffiti festival. For the more adventurous, Spišská Nová Ves airport offers various aerial programs, including skydiving, paragliding, and sailplane flying. See an ice hockey game in the evening and be back in Košice in time for a nightcap.

The best part: Spišská Nová Ves is located near the Slovak Paradise National Park, so you can also use the town as a springboard for your explorations of the beautiful canyons, ravines, and waterfalls.

Suggested by Peter Korchnak| I Heart Slovakia

Day Trips Across Europe: Germany

Potsdam from berlin, germany.

If you are looking for the perfect day trip spot from Berlin , then Potsdam is your place. Located about 40 minutes away from the German capital, Potsdam is a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site with magnificent palaces and beautifully landscaped parks.

A complex of over 150 buildings from the 18 th and 19 th century spread over 1200 acres, the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam make for an enjoyable day out of the busy streets of Berlin. The Sanssouci Palace with its resplendent Sanssouci Park is the most iconic attraction of Potsdam. Often referred to as the Versailles of Prussia, Sanssouci was built as the summer retreat of King Friedrich, the Great. It was also the birthplace of Friedrichian Rococo architecture, glimpses of which you can find in abundance here.

Although Sanssouci is a major draw for tourists, Potsdam possesses other attractions that are equally remarkable. The Historical City Centre with its Old Market Square, St. Nicholas Church, a Film Museum, and a leisure park is a great place to spend the day. Equally appealing are the red brick houses of the Dutch Quarter which are only a stone’s throw away.

It is easy to get to Potsdam from Berlin either by train or car. The best time to visit here is between April – October with August being the busiest month.

Suggested by Soumya Gayatri | Stories by Soumya

Linderhof Palace, Germany from Innsbruck, Austria

Linderhof Palace in Bavaria, Germany is often overlooked by tourists going to Neuschwanstein Castle. However, Linderhof is another one of “mad” King Ludwig II’s masterpieces and the only one he got to live in after completion.

Linderhof is small compared to Neuschwanstein but it doesn’t mean it’s less impressive. Ludwig II retreated here to spend time on his own and very much wanted it to resemble all things, French. It’s really a miniature Versailles, complete with interior representing the French court.

The beautifully landscaped gardens and park area with fascinating features such as the Venus Grotto and Moorish Kiosk are what really makes Linderhof worth a visit. Ludwig loved to bring the world to Bavaria and this is very evident in the park buildings too.

Linderhof Palace is near Garmish Partenkirchen and not easy to reach by public transport. It makes for a perfect day trip by car from Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol in Austria, which is around 90 kilometers away. Plan around 1,5 hours for the journey, or more if you want to stop at the scenic towns of Mittenwald and Ettal, home to the must-visit Ettal Abbey, along the way.

Visiting Linderhof park and gardens is free. Tickets to see the interior and the park buildings cost an affordable €8,50. It includes a guided tour of the palace led by enthusiastic and informative guides. All in all, a day trip from Innsbruck to Linderhof Palace is a very rewarding experience.

Suggested by By Linda | Travel Tyrol

Day Trips Across Europe: Spain

Sitges from barcelona, spain.

Sitges is about a 35 kilometer southwest of Barcelona making for a great day trip. This charming, LGBT friendly town of about 25K inhabitants features winding medieval streets a spectacular coastline, sizzling nightlife, and great food.  Throughout the year the city hosts a full calendar of events and festivals including the International Film Festival and a Zombie Walk.

Sitges has been known as an artist destination since the late 1800s. Renowned artists have gravitated to Sitges for its idyllic landscapes and ocean views and laid-back vibe.  Its coast is capped with a small castle that has served as a church, museum and government building over the years. A chain of restaurants and cafes line the beach for its entire length.

One Sitges mainstay is its cats.  The town is home to dozens of strays that are fed by the townspeople.  Volunteer catch the felines and local vets treat and spay or neuter them to maintain a healthy cat population.

It is easy to get to Sitges from Barcelona by either train or bus from the main station on a 40 to 45-minute commute.

Suggested by Talek Nantes | Travels With Talek

Cuenca from Madrid, Spain

Not too far from Madrid is the little town of Cuenca, with cobbled streets, Michelin starred restaurants, hanging houses, and karst waterfalls. The city, a few centuries ago, was amongst the most densely populated cities in Spain. Houses started building along the gorge in a ‘hanging’ fashion; often the balconies and toilets protrude out into the gorge and thus, these houses are called the ‘hanging houses’. This makes the architecture of the city very different and interesting. One of the houses also has the ‘Museum for Abstract Art’, where entry is free. Thus, you can be inside a hanging house and explore it from within. For Nature lovers, there is the Monumento Natural del Nacimiento del Río Cuervo, a nature reserve lined with trees that grow around the karst waterfalls in the region. There are no gushing flows and not thundering waterfalls; it is all delicate nature. There are blue pools at varying levels and water flows gently from one to the other.

Cuenca can be reached from Madrid in about 40 minutes by the Renfe train . Public transport is available from the train station to the city center. However, to explore the Old Town, one needs to walk a fair bit. Hence, it is wise to wear comfortable shoes. Also, the city is located in a hilly region and is cooler than Madrid. I was here at the start of spring and the whole city was covered in pretty pink and white almond blossoms. The sweet smell filled the air and a picnic in the nature reserve was the perfect way to get away from the big city of Madrid.

Suggested by Sonia Sahni | Ticking The Bucketlist

Toledo from Madrid, Spain

Toledo is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid and a great destination for history lovers. Perched on a hill in the region of La Mancha, in the center of Spain, Toledo dates back to Roman times and is an important city for three major world cultures. Christianity, Judaism, and Islam all called this city home and Toledo’s beautiful buildings are witness to these influences

Visiting Toledo is easy. You can reach the city by train from Madrid in less than an hour and you can visit it on foot.

The first sight to catch your eye is likely to be the Toledo Alcazar, the castle overlooking the city.  The Alcazar is a sight to behold and played a central role in many historical events in the city. Now open to the public, it is an interesting attraction to start your day in Toledo since it offers an excellent overview of the history’s rich past.

After the Alcazar, my suggestion for a visit here is to spend a full day in the city following an  itinerary that includes stunning Santa Maria la Blanca and its impressive whitewashed interiors, Toledo’s cathedral and the city’s Synagogue, now an interesting museum.

Before heading back to the station, make sure you also include a stop at the Alcantara bridge for a view of Toledo from below: Roman in origin, the bridge it is a fabulous site a great place to say goodbye to the city before heading back to Madrid

Suggested by Marta Correale | Learning Escapes

Ronda from Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a great base for exploring southern Spain, and one of the most amazing day trips you can do from Malaga is to Ronda. Located on a hilltop, Ronda offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding countryside. It is a beautiful Andalusian  pueblo blanco  (white village), with lots to see and do.

Ronda’s top attraction is the Puente Nuevo, the bridge that spans the deep gorge the town straddles. You can walk over the bridge to cross from the new town to the old town and then walk down a path to a spot from where you get unobstructed views of the magnificent bridge. The streets of the old town are made for wandering, with whitewashed houses and colorful flower pots. Spend some time exploring the beautiful gardens of the Palacio de Mondragon and the Cuenca Gardens. Admire the gorgeous architecture at the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent. Pose for a photo by the statue of El Toro, the bull. Have lunch at the Parador Hotel that sits by the edge of the gorge.

From Malaga, you can drive yourself to Ronda and back. The approach road to the town is very scenic. Or you can take the train or bus. Or opt for a guided tour. Whichever option you choose, you will love your day trip from Malaga to Ronda.

Suggested by Dhara | It’s Not About the Miles

Day Trips Across Europe: France

Giverny from paris, france.

Visiting Monet’s house and garden in Giverny is the perfect day trip from  Paris .  Monet lived and painted at his home in Giverny for the last forty years of his life, and seeing his house and the beautiful gardens that inspired many of his paintings is an amazing experience. The house is very popular and there is a constant line of people snaking through the house from room to room, so it’s definitely not a solitary experience, but you can go at your own pace, and walking through the rooms he lived and worked in really evokes his life.  The gardens have two main sections. First, the Norman Wall (Clos Normand) garden, including an iconic view of a path with metal hoops and the house at the end. Obviously which flowers are in bloom varies throughout the season, but it is always breathtaking. Second, the Water Garden with water lilies, weeping willows, and a green Japanese bridge. Seeing a real-life version of the Waterlilies and other Monet paintings is a little surreal. As a huge Monet fan, I loved it! Finally, the Waterlilies Workshop is now a large gift store with plenty of Monet-inspired gifts to buy.

The easiest way to get there from Paris Gare Saint Lazare to Gare de Vernon (about 45 minutes). The train is met by a shuttle bus (8 € return). The site is open daily mid-March to the end of October; 9.30am to 6:00 pm.  This is a very popular place to visit, so I recommend getting there early (the 8:20 am train gets you there just as it opens). It costs 9.50 € for the house and gardens.

Suggested by James | Travel Collecting

Avignon from Paris, France

Avignon is a beautiful historic city in Provence, France, set on the banks of the Rhone river. It’s around a 3-hour train trip from Paris, so you could do it as a day trip (although I recommend staying for longer if you have the time). The medieval old town is surrounded by thick ancient walls and inside, it’s filled with charming period buildings and cute winding streets, squares, and pavement cafes. Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Popes in the Middle Ages, so one of Avignon’s most impressive sights is the giant Palace of the Popes. It also has a historic bridge the ends halfway across the river. You can cross the river on a free ferry ride for amazing views of the bridge, especially at sunset.

Plus, Avignon has lots of amazing bakeries, restaurants, and markets. The undercover Les Halles market is a really fun place to explore and sample French cheese, pastries, and other treats.

Suggested by Maire | Temples and Treehouses

Champagne from Paris, France

Paris is surrounded by very beautiful regions and small towns and if you have an extra day or two in the capital it is definitely a good idea to travel around the capital city. One of our favorite day trips from Paris is the Champagne region, located northeast of the city. This is a beautiful region of rolling hills and vineyards best known as one of the best wine regions in France. We love visiting the Champagne region during the fall because the hills are covered by reds, yellow and browns but in the end, any season is great for exploring this area. As most of us know, the Champagne region is famous for champagne, the only sparkling wine in France (and the world) that can be technically called Champagne. If you are a wine or champagne lover it is a good idea to start your explorations from towns like Hautvilliers or Epernay. The first is considered the cradle of champagne and it is in the monastery of this cute town where the monk Dom Perignon developed the method of wine champagnisation. Epernay, instead, is the headquarters of the most famous champagne brands like Moët Chandon, Mercier or Veuve Clicquot have their headquarters. All of them propose interesting wine and champagne tours with a tasting at the end of the explanations. If you already know you will end up buying a bottle or two, don’t leave Paris without your  favorite wine tote bag .

Suggested by Elisa | World In Paris

Provence from Aix-en-Provence, France

The countryside of Provence is awash with color come summer. It’s a time when France’s most famous lavender fields are in bloom, and the sweet scent of these delicate buds fills the air.  The lavender fields of Provence  make the perfect day trip from Aix-en-Provence, and there are several regions where you can get your fix.

For gently rolling fields interrupted by splashes of yellow sunflowers, head straight to the Valensole Plateau. It’s here that you’ll find some of the most well-known, and visited lavender farms in the region. These fields do get popular, so its best to plan your day trip for late June/early July. Combine it with a trip to the impressive Gorges du Verdon for the perfect day out.

Another notable region for lavender is around Sault. Sault makes for a slightly longer day trip from Aix-en-Provence (at around 1 hour 40), but the hilltop villages and endless rows of lavender will make it worth your while. If you’re able to, take a bike and spend an afternoon cycling around this bucolic corner of Provence. Or walk the 5km “lavender path” that will take you around some of the most beautiful fields.

If you’re short on time or want to combine your day trip with some of the most stunning villages in Provence – head straight to the Luberon valley. It’s here you’ll find the most famous lavender field of all – framing the amazing Sénanque Abbey.

Suggested by Nadine Maffre | Le Long Weekend

Day Trips Across Europe: Italy

Rivoli from turin, italy.

Most travelers don’t realize that Turin, Italy is the original Italian capital.  For almost one thousand years, the powerful Savoy family ruled nearly all of what is now modern Italy.  The Savoys created a ring of spectacular palaces all around Turin, but to see my favorite Savoy palace you absolutely must make a day trip to nearby  Rivoli, Italy .

Rivoli is only an hour from Turin and its historic center is accessible by public transit from Turin’s Piazza Statuto.  However, Rivoli has a completely different vibe than Turin: its quaint historic center is fantastically preserved and traffic is limited on its narrow cobblestone streets.  The historic center is built around the base of a hill, upon which sits the eye-catching Castello di Rivoli.  The red-brick castle offers magnificent views of both Turin and the mountains of the Valle d’Aosta.  Inside the castle, visitors are treated to one of the world’s best contemporary art galleries and a Michelin-starred restaurant.  The art collection is noteworthy both for the quality of its exhibits (expect to see works by world-famous artists like Helmut Newton and Mario Merz) and their unique placement throughout the castle’s grand hallways, residences and ballrooms.

Suggested by Carly | Fearless Female Travels

Garda from Venice, Italy

The Garda lake at the foot of the Alps or the nearby Verona are the stunning destinations in the North of Italy. But did you know that they are also just a short 1.5-hour train ride away from Venice? One might argue that a day can’t be enough to capture Venice in all its beauty and maybe that’s true. But you can be sure that you’ll get a very good and intense first impression of this unique city.

The train station of Venice is within the center of the lagoon city (the part that is not accessible by car!) and is the perfect starting point for a long walk across the island. If you arrive with one of the early trains, you can roam along the canals, cross a thousand bridges, and take even more pictures, just to arrive at the Piazza San Marco in time to grab a Panini Sandwich or have lunch in a Restaurant.

If you need a break from walking, you even can squeeze in a ride in a classic Venetian Gondola before you head back to the station. Alternatively, you can also visit the famous Murano Glass manufactory and take a taxi boat to be back to the train station in time.

Suggested by Lena | Salut From Paris

Padua from Venice, Italy

Venice is a great place from which to explore northeast Italy on day trips . One of the best of these is Padua – Padova in Italian – which is as little as half an hour away on the train.

If it wasn’t for its proximity to Venice, Padua would be a much more popular destination. In a way, this has worked in its favor, as it gets relatively few visitors. Those who do make it there find a fascinating city abundantly rich in history and things to see and do. The only crowds are locals going about their daily life.

Padua is best known for the Cappella degli Scrovegni, a chapel commissioned by a local nobleman to try to pave and pay his way to the afterlife. He commissioned Giotto da Bondone to paint an incredible fresco cycle covering the whole interior of the chapel. You could call it the very first work of the Renaissance, albeit 150 years before the rest of Italy and the world caught up.

Padua also has two other major churches you cannot miss if you visit. The Basilica of ‘Il Santo’, St Anthony of Padua, is one of the most impressive medieval churches in Europe. St Anthony still inspires a very devoted following, and a visit to the Basilica is a very full-on experience. The nearby Duomo also deserves some of your time, but its adjoining Baptistery is the drawcard, with an amazing fresco cycle in the ceiling by Giusto de’ Menabuoi.

Add in a buzzing center with a big student population, many bars and restaurants, a café dating back to the 18 th century and the world’s first botanical garden, and you have an amazing day trip from Venice.’

Suggested by David Angel | Delve Into Europe

Ferrari Museum Modena, Italy

In the heart of northern Italy’s region, Emilia-Romagna located a medium-size town Modena — a birthplace to the Balsamic vinegar, the word’s famous tenor Luciano Pavarotti and most importantly, the sports car. Modena is a lovely modest town with the country’s best-kept secret: Enzo Ferrari Museum and Factory. Conveniently located 90 miles from Florence, 45 mins drive from Parma and Bologna, Modena sure is easily accessible by car or train.

If you are looking for a unique less touristy destination for your family day trip inside Italy – you are in the right place. One of the best and unique experiences you can give to your family is to visit the Ferrari Museum in Modena .

To begin with, this isn’t your ordinary boring museum stuffed with artifacts and cute art pieces that kids don’t care enough to even notice. The museum is built in honor of the world’s car making legend — Enzo Ferrari himself — and combines his father’s old workshop and the house where Enzo was born.

The exhibition gallery complex includes the display of the world’s fastest cars designs, the Ferrari Engines museum, Enzo’s office, and a Merchandise shop. While you enjoy the futuristic car display inside the pavilion, you will be presented with an opportunity to watch an interactive movie on Enzo and the company’s historical evolvement which in fact, captures the attention of even the youngest visitor.

Suggested by Alex | Laska Baby Travel

Pienza from Florence, Italy

Florence is such a beautiful city that it is hard to tear yourself away. But, I can assure, you that a day trip to Pienza and the Val D’Orcia will be a highlight of your trip to Italy. The Val D’Orcia (Orcia Valley) south of Florence is the home of some the most enduring images of Tuscany. Tall cypress trees sway in the breeze over rolling hills covered in vines. Pretty hilltop towns with cobbled streets overlook the countryside.

Our favorite of all is Pienza – the ideal Renaissance town, built to spec by a wealthy pope. Pienza is a town that stays with you long after you left. Sitting high on a hill overlooking the valley, there are spectacular views at almost every turn. A picture-perfect town, Pienza’s cobbled streets lead to pretty piazzas, an impressive Duomo and a grand palazzo. It’s the perfect place to wander.

Beyond Pienza, there are wineries and country restaurants to visit, nestled on hills and in valleys. Make sure to visit Montalcino to discover one of Italy’s most famous wines – Brunello di Monticalcino.

Pienza and the Val D’Orcia are 2 hours drive south of Florence. The best way to get there is by car. Or, if you are interested in tasting many of the local wines, take a guided tour.

Suggested by Katy Clarke | Untold Morsels

Pompeii from Naples, Italy

I have to admit that Italy is my favorite European country. It has everything! From amazing landscapes, ski resorts, beaches, and magnificent coastlines, to delicious food and friendly smiling people. And it is filled with history. And if you are a history geek (and not only), one of the best places to visit in Italy is for sure Pompeii. A 2,000-year-old Roman town which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you want to discover Pompeii and learn more about the ancient town which got buried by the furious Mount Vesuvius’ eruption, then you should base yourself in Naples. This is a lively city which deserves a couple of days as you have plenty of things to do and to see. And Pompeii is one of the most popular day trips which can be done from Naples.

Getting from Naples to Pompeii doesn’t require too much logistics as there is a direct train, the Circumvesuviana train, which will drop you right at the entrance of Pompeii. You only need to buy your entrance tickets and then lose yourself in the fantastic remains of the old town. You will soon be fascinated to discover Romans’ way of life by admiring their houses, their theatres, markets, and even a brothel.

So hop on that train and walk into an ancient time. After spending a couple of hours wandering around the alleys of Pompeii, you just have to take the train back to Naples and enjoy the famous Pizza Margherita!

Suggested by Andra Padureanu | Our World To Wander

Capri from Venice, Italy

If you find yourself in Naples, don’t pass up the opportunity to take a day trip to the spectacular island of Capri . Capri’s cove-studded coast, steep mountains, and unbelievably blue waters are a magnet for the rich and famous. While yachts line this mystical island’s coast, you don’t have to own one to enjoy its riches. Hop on a 1-hour ferry ride from Naples for just over €20 each way. Currently, ferries run between Naples and Capri between 05:30-20:00. While you don’t have to take the very first ferry out of Naples, it is important to arrive in Capri early to make the most of your time and avoid the crowds. All ferries dock at Capri’s Marina Grande. From here, take the funicular up to the Piazzetta, the main square of Capri town. Next, take the chairlift to the top of Mount Solaro for a breathtaking view of the island. For another fantastic view of the Gulf of Naples, and one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy, stop at Villa San Michele. Here you can see the famous head of Medusa and the mascot of the villa, an Egyptian sphinx. Don’t leave without trying  torta caprese , a heavenly flourless cake made from almonds and chocolate!

Suggested by Chrisoula Manika | Travel Passionate

Day Trips Across Europe: Portugal

Sintra from lisbon, portugal.

  Sintra was once Portuguese Royal Family’s favorite area to escape the heat in Lisbon.  Now, it’s a popular tourist destination with several palaces and beautiful gardens. You can easily do a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon (but you may want to stay longer).  It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start out your day at the oldest castle in Sintra, the Castle of the Moors.  It dates back to 8th or 9th century and is now just ruins. You get amazing views from the wall walk and can visit the cistern that was built in the 12th century to catch and store rainwater.

The most famous palace in Sintra is the colorful Pena Palace, which was transformed from ruins of a monastery. Be sure to also allow time to explore the surrounding park.

In the historical town center, you will find the National Palace of Sintra, the summer residence of the monarchs from the 15th to the 19th century.  Its two conical chimneys can be seen for miles. Inside, you will see some impressive tile work and period pieces.

If you have any additional time, you could also visit Quinta de Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, Chalet and Garden of the Countess of Edla, Capuchos Convent, Palace of Seteais, or the Sintra Museum of Modern Art.

The best way to get to Sintra from Lisbon is to catch the train from the Rossio Train Station .  It takes less than an hour and runs every 30 minutes.

Suggested by Anisa Alhilali | Two Traveling Texans

Baleal from Lisbon, Portugal

Baleal and Peniche make a great day trip destination from Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. Our advice: Start in the early hours of the day when the city is still half asleep, when it is not as hot as during most of the days and when there is not so much traffic as usual. Make your way through the city center and the outskirts of Lisbon until you reach the highway and follow the road north until you reach the beach destination of Peniche. From there a beautiful beach road leads you right into the even smaller town of Baleal. This place is the perfect place if you like to catch some waves (in fact it is one of Portugal’s best surf spots) or just go for a bath in the ocean. Also, if you are into seafood and that kind of stuff, this is your Portuguese dream. You will get everything from freshly caught tuna fish to delicious octopus salad. Our favorite restaurant is Taberna do Ganhão, a hip eatery, blending Portuguese tradition with surf-culture that comes with a long and beautiful history. If you can make it, end the day with the perfect ocean sunset before heading back to Lisboa.

Suggested by Clemens Sehi | Travellers Archive

Day Trips Across Europe: United Kingdom, Ireland

Stratford-upon-avon from london, uk.

Located just 2 hours from London is a must-visit town for anyone who has ever read a book. Stratford-upon-Avon is known worldwide for being William Shakespeare’s hometown . The poet and playwright was born in the village, lived much of his adult life here, and was even buried here, alongside his wife and other close family members.

But despite its fame, Stratford-upon-Avon is not at all touristy. A day spent here is an escape from the hustle and bustle and sensory overload that London can often be. Stratford is a charming village filled with Renaissance architecture, centuries’ old restaurants, gift shops, and is surrounded by the idyllic English countryside.

There are at least six sites connected to Shakespeare and his family that history lovers and literature lovers can explore, including his birthplace and burial site. The site of the home he built for his wife and children has been turned into a symbolic garden that visitors can walk through. The childhood home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, is located just outside the town. The Royal Shakespeare Theater is also here if you fancy seeing a live performance of one of Shakespeare’s works.

Stratford-upon-Avon is the perfect day trip from London to get a breath of fresh air and explore the hometown of one of the greatest authors in English history!

Suggested by Maggie McKneely | Pink Caddy Travelogue

Cotswold from London, UK

If you are in London, there’s an amazing day trip you definitely can’t miss! I’m talking about The Cotswolds, a hilly region which was declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966. Seems gorgeous, right? The good news is that it is located less than a couple of hours far from London. Public transport connects London to The Cotswolds daily, but I highly suggest you to explore the region by car: no rush and no timetables to care about. One of the best parts of this trip is to wander around and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. The Cotswolds covers a huge area (almost 800 square miles) and runs through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire). Nevertheless, even in one single day, you can easily visit some of the nicest villages in Europe. So, here you are a couple of itineraries you could follow. For example, in one day you could visit both Bibury and Castle Combe, they’re probably the most famous destinations in The Cotswolds! Otherwise, you could explore the North Cotswolds and discover lots of charming tiny villages like Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway, Upper, and Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water. In every single town I’ve mentioned, you’ll find traditional cottages, lovely shops run by locals and cozy pubs. You’ll definitely feel to be back in time!

Suggested by Martina Benedetto| As Far As You Can

Oxford from London, UK

Only an hour by train from Paddington station, visiting Oxford is one of the best day trips from London . The city is famous for its university, with Oxford University being the oldest university in England.

No visit to Oxford is complete without taking a walking tour of the city to discover its 38 university colleges, learn about Oxford’s well-known rivalry with Cambridge University, explore the small cobbled side streets and see striking views of the city from the top of University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.

Which is right next to the Radcliffe Camera!

A few of my favorite sights in Oxford are the Radcliffe Camera for its stunning architecture, the Bridge of Sigh and the Bodleian Library for its vast numbers of books. The Bodleian library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and has a copy of almost every book ever published in the UK and Ireland.

Along with its celebrated architecture and University, the city of Oxford is also a source of inspiration for films such as Harry Potter.

Here are some Harry Potter locations to visit in Oxford – the ‘Great Hall’, Christ Church College, Bodleian Library, and New College Tree. To finish your day, of scholarly tours and wizarding around in Oxford.

Relax with a drink and a meal in a quaint pub-like, The Eagle & Child (popular with Tolkien and Lewis), which is a favorite amongst the locals and is a fantastic way to end your day in Oxford

Suggested by Delahaye | Hues of Delahaye

Cambridge from London, UK

It’s so easy to hop on a train at London Kings Cross and visit Cambridge, the journey takes around an hour. You’ll love the combination of stunning architecture, natural beauty and excellent tea and cake in this university city.

Visit the Colleges:  there are over 30 colleges in Cambridge and most are open to the public for a small fee. The best-known place is probably Kings College with its spectacular Chapel.

Peterhouse is the oldest Cambridge college, founded in 1284.

Punt along the Cam:  the easiest way to do this is to rent a punt with a guide punter who punts. Find punts on the river at Quayside, Magdelene Street.  Watching the colleges glide by whilst hearing stories of their history and local characters is delightful.

Swim at Jesus Green Lido:  This is an unusual open-air swimming pool, at 100 yards long it is one of the two longest pools in the UK.  Jesus Green Lido is unheated and open only in the warmer months,

Fitzwilliam Museum:  visit this large museum to see its unique collections. This is an excellent option for wet days, it is free to enter so good, if even for a short visit.

Bike around Cambridge: there are several guided bike tours available, or you can hire a bike and set forth to explore the city and its beautiful gardens, riverside cycleways and meadows.

Fitzbillies Café: tea and cake in this bakery and café is a Cambridge institution, and you’ll deserve a treat after all the exploring!

Suggested by Seana Smith | Hello Sydney Kids.

St. Andrews from Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’ve spent some time in Edinburgh and are looking for a change of scenery, then consider going on a day trip to Fife!  Edinburgh is a great base for doing many day trips  and here’s one of our favorites. Why not swap a day in the city for a day by the seaside?

The coastal town of St Andrews is a short 1hr15 mins drive away. A Mecca for golfers, St Andrews is a charming coastal town famous for its iconic golf course, its university (the 3 rd  oldest in the UK no less!) and its beaches.

The town, with its cobbled streets, back alleys, secret passageways, is steeped in history – and it’s, of course, the place where Prince William met Kate! A visit to the ruined Castle is a must along with the Cathedral and St Rule’s Tower where you’ll get an amazing panoramic view of the town. There are two beaches to choose from – the large expansive sands at West Sands and the smaller, bay-like beach at East Sands.

St Andrews can be reached by car from Edinburgh (1hr 15mins) or by bus (although it takes significantly longer than traveling by car). You can also get a train to Leuchars (about 5 miles from St Andrews) and then catch a bus or a taxi to the town. St Andrews really is a must on your Scottish bucket list!

Suggested by Gillian Denovan | Scotland’s Bucketlist

Cliffs of Moher from Galway City, Ireland

One place that is on most people’s bucket lists when it comes to Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher, which make a great destination for a day trip from Galway City in the west of Ireland. Located in County Clare, an hour and a half’s drive south of Galway, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s biggest tourist attractions.

Situated on the edge of the Burren, they run for 14km and rise to a maximum height of 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, as well as the Twelve Pins mountain range in the north of County Galway. The Cliffs of Moher form part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a 2500km coastal road which runs from Malin Head in the north to Kinsale in the south. And they have been recognized by UNESCO.

There is an 18km cliff walk for visitors to enjoy, as well as interactive exhibitions about the flora and fauna of the cliffs in the Visitors Centre, opened just 11 years ago. There is a large car park at the visitor’s center where you’ll also find a café. Along the cliffs, there are three main viewing platforms and great views of the cliffs can also be enjoyed at O’Brien’s Tower along the walk. The Cliffs of Moher are a must-be-seen attraction in Ireland.

Suggested by Cath | Passports and Adventures

What do you think?

Tell us all about your favorite day trips from this list and feel free to add more suggestions in the comments below.

Also read: 7 European Countries That You Can Explore In A Day 

• day trip in italy
• day trips in europe
• day trips in france
• day trips in spain
• day trips in uk
• travel bloggers recommend

Parampara Patil Hashmi

Paramparā aka Cinemawaali is Bombay girl living in Vienna. Studying sustainability & telling stories about all things travel, culture & entertainment.

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I am glad I came across this post. And I am bookmarking it for future use. Loved the way you have mentioned everything and also the pictures!

From all of them, I have visited only Cesky Krumlov and it is a fairy tale. Love this post, and saving it for future use!

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The Ultimate Eastern Europe Itinerary Ideas You Will Love

• February 19, 2021

Table of Contents

Eastern Europe is an often overlooked destination and neglected in favor of destinations like Paris, London, and Amsterdam. While there’s nothing wrong with any of those cities, traveling to eastern Europe can expose you to culture, cuisine, history, and customs that you’ve never experienced before.

If you’re planning a trip to this area, you may be surprised to find that many of the destinations here are relatively inexpensive but still safe and clean. You can meet locals and learn more about the countries you visit from there for an unforgettable experience. This part of Europe also typically sees fewer crowds so if you want a more isolated vacation without sacrificing any of the excitement, views, or experiences, Eastern Europe is the place for you.

Here are our top Eastern Europe itinerary ideas to inspire you. Whether you are planning to spend 10 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month, or longer in Eastern Europe, these itineraries are perfect for any length of your trip.

Best Eastern Europe Itinerary Idea for History Lovers

Eastern Europe is home to some of the oldest churches, castles, and cities. The region has also seen countless wars, changes, and an incredible amount of growth and innovation. The cities listed here are full of history and you could spend weeks in each of them and still not experience the entirety of what they have to offer.

Sample Itinerary:

• Budapest, Hungary
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Krakow, Poland
• Moscow, Russia
• St. Petersburg, Russia

Things to Do:

• Visit the Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest . This lookout point is one of the best-known attractions in Hungary and provides stunning views of the Danube river and the Hungarian Parliament Building .
• Take a guided tour of Prague Castle . This castle complex was first constructed in 870 and is currently the official office of the Czech president and home of the Bohemian Crown Jewels.
• Explore the historic Royal Archcathedral Basilica of Saints Stanislaus and Wenceslaus on the Wawel Hill , or, as it’s more commonly known, Wawel Cathedral. This historic Catholic church is over 900 years old and has been the coronation site of many Polish monarchs.
• Explore the Red Square in Moscow, Russia. This historic square is one of the oldest and largest in Europe and is surrounded by significant buildings such as St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and GUM Department Store.
• Marvel at the monumental Winter Palace in St. Petersberg , Russia. This massive palace that’s notable for its mint green, white, and gold accented exterior was the home of the Russian royal families from 1732 until the Russian Revolution in 1917. Today the palace is open for tours and is home to the Hermitage Museum.

Best Eastern Europe Itinerary Idea for Pop Culture Tour

In recent years Eastern Europe has gone from an unpopular location to shoot movies to one of the most popular. The region has a lot of financial benefits as well as a stunning and inspiring landscape. Blockbuster movies and popular television series are filmed on sound stages and on location in various countries in this part of the world.

• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Vis, Croatia
• Cross the Charles Bridge in Prague. This medieval structure was built in the 14th century and was a filming location for the 2019 film, Spider-man: Far From Home
• Stroll through the seaside town of Dubrovnik . This picturesque town was the filming location for the Star Wars casino town Canto Bight that appeared in the Last Jedi. There are guided tours available.
• Dubrovnik may also look familiar to you if you’re a fan of the hit HBO series Game of Thrones . Minčeta Tower was used as the House of Undying and the stunning courtyard of the Rector’s Palace is the site where Daenerys Targaryen meets the Spice King of Qarth
• If you’re a fan of ABBA, or more specifically, if you’re a fan of the film Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again, you’ll want to visit the sunny island of Vis . This Croatian island stood in for the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi during filming and is a wonderful and laid back destination
• Visit the Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest, a filming location for the Netflix series, the Witcher. This unique structure was built in 1896 as a part of the Millennial Exhibition which celebrated 1,000 years of Hungarian history. Try to spot the stone bust of famed Hungarian actor Bela Lugosi, noted for being the first actor to play Count Dracula, perched on the castle exterior.

Best Eastern Europe Itinerary Idea for Traveling by Train

Traveling by train is romantic, magical, and, best of all, it’s an affordable way to travel. You can travel between the following cities while enjoying the changing landscape and relaxing – it’s a win-win situation! Budapest is a great place to start your train adventure, but many places in Eastern Europe are connected by train so you have plenty of destinations to add. This itinerary is a great place to start.

• Bratislava, Slovakia
• Vienna, Austria
• Zagreb, Croatia

• Relax in the Szechenyi Spa Baths in Budapest during the day, or party there at night. When the sun goes down, the atmosphere becomes more similar to a rave than a spa.
• Shop at the Great Market Hall in Budapest. This refurbished neo-gothic hall has many food stalls and stands with artisan wares.
• See the vibrant St Elizabeth’s Church in Bratislava. This bright blue structure was built around 1910 by famed Slovakian architect Ödön Lechner.
• Stroll through the stone streets of Bratislava’s Old Town . The alleyways lined with colorful buildings that are home to cafes, shops, and restaurants provide a charming experience in a historic destination.
• Sample pastries and chocolates at the famous confectionary Demel. This Austrian landmark has been popular among locals since it was first built in 1786.
• Tour the Hofburg . This majestic 13th-century castle was originally the home of the Habsburg dynasty and is currently the official residence and workplace of the current Austrian president.
• Soak in panoramic views of Croatia’s capital city at the Zagreb Eye, a 360-degree observation deck . You can sip a drink from the bar while experiencing a birds-eye view of the many historic and modern structures that make up the city of Zagreb.
• Visit the biggest open-air farmers market in Zagreb: Dolac Market . This is a great place to wander and purchase some fresh food.

Travel Resources :

Search and find the best flights, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do during your trip to Eastern Europe with our list of recommended travel resources below.

Flights:   CheapOAir ,  Agoda

Hotels :  Agoda ,  Hotellook

Transportations:   Trainline  or  RailEurope  (Train),  Flixbus  (Bus),  EconomyBookings (Car Rental),  BikesBooking  (Bikes),  GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver),  Omio  (search, compare and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :  GetYourGuide  and  Viator

DISCLAIMER : Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links, MultiCityTrips may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Need help planning a trip to Eastern Europe?

Want to plan a multi-city trip to Eastern Europe but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a multi-city trip visiting multiple destinations in Eastern Europe are our specialties.  Contact us  today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can  personalize your multi-city vacations   at the best price.

Don’t want to start from scratch and need some trip inspiration? Check out our  marketplace  for customizable pre-designed packages available right now for many amazing destinations.

To learn more about how our process of trip planning works in detail, please see our “ How It Works ” page or check out our video on  “How to Plan a Multi-City Trip to Europe in  5 Easy Steps”   here.

Have questions for us?  Schedule a FREE Call  with us here or contact one of the travel experts/destination specialists at  [email protected] , call/text us at  (888)223-2316  today.

Private Travel Coaching & Consulting Call

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

More Travel Inspiration & Guides

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Brussels

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

7 of the Best Spanish Islands You Will Love

2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary & The Best Way to Explore The City You Love

9 Incredible Hidden Gems in Iceland You’ll Love

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Amsterdam

10 of The Best Things to Do in Normandy You Will Love

7 of the Best Day Trips from Milan by Train You’ll Love

Travel resources for planning your own trip.

To make planning your European trip on your own easier, in addition to what already mentioned in our travel guide, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in any destination using these travel resources:

European River Cruises:

Uniworld River Cruises : The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

Pre- and Post-cruise/Tour Extensions:  Uniworld curated pre-and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your trip while leaving the planning to them

The packages include a variety of hotel options, transfers, and a dedicated destination expert to escort you along the way.

Agoda : Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.

CheapOAir : You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!

Kiwi.com : What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “ Nomad ” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.

JetRadar : You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.

Agoda : Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Hotellook : They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.

Airport Transfers & Transportations:  

Airport Transfers: GetTransfer offers both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver. Other airport transfer options are KiwiTaxi and Viator.

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline ,  or  RailEurope are all great sites for train tickets as well as Rail Passes if you would like to add more flexibility to your trip. They are good for most trains throughout Europe. For trains in Italy, we like and recommend ItaliaRail . As for Portugal, you will need to go to the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company) to book your train tickets when traveling in Portugal.

Bus :  Flixbus : Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.

CarRentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking is a great site for bikes & scooter rentals

Transportation Comparison :  Omio  (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :

TakeWalks  (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.

Tiqets : Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.

Musement : They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.

GetYourGuide : A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

Which City To Visit On A 5-Day Trip To Europe

Published: November 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Beitris Bedard

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Europe is a continent bursting with rich history, breathtaking architecture, vibrant cultures, and diverse landscapes. Planning a 5-day trip to Europe can be an exhilarating experience, but choosing the right city to visit can be a daunting task. Each city offers its own unique charm and attractions, making it crucial to consider several factors before making a decision.

When planning your trip, it is essential to consider your personal interests, budget, travel preferences, and the time of year. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure, Europe has a city to fulfill your desires.

In this article, we will explore five popular European cities, each offering a distinct experience. From the romantic charm of Paris to the ancient wonders of Rome, the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, and the fairy-tale beauty of Prague, each city has its own allure and adventure waiting to be discovered.

Join us as we dive into the heart of Europe and uncover which city will make your 5-day trip an unforgettable journey.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a City

Before making a decision on which city to visit for your 5-day trip to Europe, it is important to consider several factors. These factors will help ensure that you choose a city that aligns with your interests, preferences, and budget. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Interests and Activities: Think about what you enjoy doing the most during your travels. Are you a history enthusiast who loves exploring ancient ruins and museums? Or are you more interested in vibrant nightlife and culinary experiences? Consider the city’s attractions and activities available to match your interests.
• Travel Budget: Each city in Europe has its own cost of living and tourism expenses. Consider your budget and research the average costs for accommodation, dining, transportation, and attractions in each city. This will help you plan and choose a city that fits your financial capabilities.
• Accessibility: Take into account the ease of travel to your chosen city. Check for direct flight options or convenient train connections. Choosing a city with good accessibility will save you time and make your journey more efficient.
• Time of Year: Different cities in Europe have unique charms in different seasons. Consider the weather conditions and events happening during your travel dates. Are you looking for a summer beach getaway or a winter wonderland? Keep in mind the seasonality of your chosen city.
• Language and Culture: Take into consideration the language spoken in the city and the cultural experience it offers. If you are interested in immersing yourself in a new language or culture, choose a city that caters to your preferences.
• Safety: Safety is an important factor to consider while traveling. Research the safety ratings and overall security situation in the cities you are considering. Choose a city that provides a sense of security and comfort for your trip.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a city that matches your interests, preferences, and budget. It will ensure that you have a fulfilling and unforgettable 5-day trip to Europe.

City 1: Paris

Welcome to the enchanting City of Light, Paris! With its iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Paris offers a truly magical experience. In just 5 days, you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

No visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Take the elevator to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, explore the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais, and indulge in delectable pastries at local patisseries.

Art enthusiasts will be in awe at the Louvre Museum, home to the famous Mona Lisa. Discover other artistic gems at the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou. Take a leisurely boat ride along the Seine River and admire the stunning architecture, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the exquisite bridges.

Paris is also a haven for food lovers. Sample authentic French cuisine at cozy bistros and bustling markets. Don’t miss out on the chance to savor mouthwatering pastries, heavenly macarons, and fine wines. Indulge in a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine or dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

For a touch of history, visit the Palace of Versailles, located just outside the city. Marvel at the opulent palace, vast gardens, and the famous Hall of Mirrors.

When it comes to shopping, Paris is a fashion capital. Explore the designer boutiques on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the trendy shops in Le Marais. Browse through vintage finds at the flea market, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen.

Paris comes alive in the evening, offering a vibrant nightlife scene. Catch a cabaret show at Moulin Rouge, soak in the atmosphere at the lively Latin Quarter, or enjoy a classical concert at the stunning Opéra Garnier.

With its timeless beauty and romantic charm, Paris is a city that will captivate your heart. A 5-day trip is just enough to scratch the surface of all that this magnificent city has to offer, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

City 2: Rome

Welcome to the Eternal City, Rome! With its ancient ruins, magnificent architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Rome offers a captivating blend of history and modernity. In 5 days, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and experience the wonders that Rome has to offer.

A visit to Rome wouldn’t be complete without exploring the iconic Colosseum. Step back in time as you wander through this ancient amphitheater, imagining the gladiators’ battles and the cheers of the crowd. Be sure to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can see the ruins of ancient temples and structures.

The Vatican City, an independent city-state within Rome, is a must-visit. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica and admire the intricate artwork of the Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo. Take a stroll through the Vatican Museums, home to a vast collection of art and historical treasures.

Delve into the heart of Rome’s culture by wandering through its charming neighborhoods. Explore the narrow streets of Trastevere, filled with lively cafes and authentic trattorias. Visit the Spanish Steps, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and make a wish for a return visit.

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Italian cuisine in Rome. From mouthwatering pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe to pizzas cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens, the culinary offerings in Rome will leave you craving more. Don’t forget to savor gelato from one of the city’s renowned gelaterias.

Rome is a city that seamlessly blends history with modern life. Take leisurely walks along the Tiber River, cross the picturesque bridges, and soak in the atmosphere of the city. Explore the vibrant markets, such as Campo de’ Fiori, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal crafts.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Galleria Borghese is a must. Admire the exquisite sculptures, paintings, and archaeological treasures housed in this stunning museum. The MAXXI National Museum of 21st Century Arts is also worth a visit for its contemporary art exhibits.

Rome’s nightlife is vibrant and varied. Enjoy an evening stroll in the lively Trastevere district, dine at cozy trattorias, and sip on a refreshing Aperol spritz at a trendy bar. For an atmospheric experience, catch an open-air opera performance or a concert in one of the city’s historic venues.

Rome is a city that will transport you back in time while captivating you with its modern charm. In just 5 days, you can explore its ancient ruins, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this extraordinary city.

City 3: Barcelona

Welcome to the vibrant city of Barcelona! Known for its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and beautiful Mediterranean beaches, Barcelona offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. In 5 days, you can dive into the colorful streets of this dynamic city and discover its endless charms.

Barcelona is home to the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. Marvel at the intricate details and innovative designs that make these landmarks truly extraordinary. Take a stroll along the famous boulevard of La Rambla, lined with street performers, cafes, and bustling market stalls.

Immerse yourself in the rich Catalan culture by exploring the charming neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter. Get lost in its narrow streets, stumble upon hidden squares, and soak in the medieval ambiance. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral and discover the history and architectural beauty within its walls.

The Mediterranean Sea is a defining feature of Barcelona, and its beaches are perfect for relaxation and leisure. Spend a day soaking up the sun at Barceloneta Beach, take a refreshing swim in the azure waters, or enjoy water sports activities. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in delicious paella and seafood at beachfront restaurants.

Art enthusiasts will find a haven in Barcelona’s vibrant art scene. Visit the Picasso Museum to admire the works of the legendary artist or explore the contemporary art exhibits at the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) and the Fundació Joan Miró.

Tapas and Catalan cuisine are a delight for food lovers. From patatas bravas to fresh seafood, Barcelona offers an array of culinary delights. Explore the lively markets, such as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, and sample local delicacies. Wash it down with a glass of refreshing sangria or a traditional vermouth.

Barcelona is also a city of festivals and celebrations. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the festive season, you can experience the vibrant colors and energetic atmosphere of events like La Mercè, where the streets come alive with fireworks, music, and traditional Catalan customs.

As the sun sets, Barcelona’s nightlife lights up. Explore the bustling bar scene in El Raval, dance the night away at the beach clubs, or enjoy live music performances in the trendy neighborhood of El Born. The city offers an eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes.

Barcelona is a city that embraces diversity and creativity, making it a captivating destination for travelers. In just 5 days, you can explore its architectural wonders, indulge in delicious cuisine, relax on beautiful beaches, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

City 4: Amsterdam

Welcome to the charming city of Amsterdam! With its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam offers a unique and enchanting experience. In just 5 days, you can explore the city’s iconic sights, immerse yourself in its rich history, and embrace its laid-back atmosphere.

Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, and a boat ride along the historic canal ring is a must-do. Admire the stunning architecture and picturesque houses that line the waterways, and learn about the city’s history as you glide through this UNESCO World Heritage site.

No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a visit to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum. Immerse yourself in the works of this celebrated artist and gain a deeper understanding of his life and artistic journey. The Rijksmuseum is also a must-visit, housing an impressive collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Explore the charming neighborhoods of Amsterdam, such as the Jordaan and De Pijp. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the traditional Dutch houses, and discover cozy cafes, trendy boutiques, and local markets. Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll in the beautiful Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park, and enjoy a picnic or leisurely bike ride.

Amsterdam is known for its vibrant and diverse cultural scene. Visit the Anne Frank House and learn about the life and legacy of Anne Frank, whose diary has touched people around the world. Explore the Foam Photography Museum and the Stedelijk Museum, which showcases contemporary art. Catch a performance at the renowned Concertgebouw or visit one of the city’s many theaters.

Taste the flavors of Dutch cuisine during your stay in Amsterdam. Indulge in delicious cheese at the Cheese Museum or sample traditional herring from one of the street food stalls. Don’t forget to try some stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) at a local cafe.

Amsterdam’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, catering to all tastes. From cozy brown cafés where you can enjoy a beer and chat with locals, to trendy cocktail bars and clubs where you can dance the night away, Amsterdam has it all. The famous Red Light District also offers a unique experience, with its bustling streets and distinctive atmosphere.

Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets make it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Rent a bicycle and pedal along the canals, visit the floating flower market, or venture outside the city to explore the beautiful Dutch countryside and its iconic windmills.

Amsterdam is a city that effortlessly combines history, art, beauty, and a relaxed vibe. In just 5 days, you can discover its enchanting canals, immerse yourself in its cultural treasures, and experience the unique atmosphere that sets Amsterdam apart from any other city.

City 5: Prague

Welcome to the magical city of Prague! With its fairytale-like architecture, rich history, and charming old-world atmosphere, Prague is a true gem of Europe. In just 5 days, you can explore its cobblestone streets, visit its breathtaking castles, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

Prague’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Explore the Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world, and marvel at the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you can admire the astronomical clock, stroll across Charles Bridge, and soak in the medieval ambiance.

The Charles Bridge offers magnificent views of the Vltava River and the city’s skyline. Take a leisurely walk across the bridge and discover the striking statues that line the way. Be sure to visit the lesser-known Prague Castle district, where you can find hidden gems and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Prague is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Explore the collections of the National Gallery, which houses a vast array of Czech and European art. Visit the Kafka Museum to learn about the life and works of the famous writer Franz Kafka. Don’t miss the chance to attend a classical concert in one of Prague’s stunning concert halls or churches.

Indulge in the flavors of Czech cuisine during your visit. Try traditional dishes like goulash, svíčková, and trdelník, a delicious pastry. Sample some of the world-famous Czech beer at local pubs and beer halls, and experience the lively atmosphere of the city’s beer gardens.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov, is a must-visit to explore the city’s Jewish history and culture. Discover the Jewish Museum, which includes several synagogues and the hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery. Learn about the struggles and achievements of the Jewish community in Prague throughout history.

For a unique experience, visit the Prague Astronomical Clock as it strikes the hour. Marvel at the figures in motion and the intricate details of this medieval masterpiece. Climb the Old Town Hall tower for panoramic views of the city.

Prague’s nightlife offers something for everyone. From trendy cocktail bars to underground pubs and live music venues, you can enjoy a vibrant and diverse scene. Explore the lively bars in the neighborhood of Žižkov or head to the riverside clubs and bars for a memorable night out.

Prague’s beauty is not limited to the city center. Take a boat ride on the Vltava River, visit the picturesque neighborhood of Malá Strana, or explore the charming parks and gardens, such as the Letná Park and the Kinsky Garden.

Prague is a city that will transport you back in time, with its medieval charm and captivating atmosphere. In just 5 days, you can experience the rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality that make Prague a must-visit destination in Europe.

Choosing the right city for your 5-day trip to Europe can be a thrilling yet challenging task. Each city offers its own unique charm, attractions, and experiences, making it important to consider various factors before making a decision.

Paris, with its romantic ambiance, iconic landmarks, and exquisite cuisine, offers a blend of history, art, and culture that captivates visitors. Rome, the eternal city, enchants with its ancient ruins, magnificent architecture, and delectable cuisine, immersing travelers in the rich heritage of the Roman Empire.

Barcelona, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, entices with its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals, world-class museums, and laid-back atmosphere, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern flair.

Prague, a fairytale-like destination, delights with its fairytale castles, cobblestone streets, and rich history. Each of these cities has something extraordinary to offer, ensuring an unforgettable 5-day journey through European marvels.

Consider your personal interests, budget, travel preferences, and the time of year when choosing a city. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, a foodie, or seeking a relaxing beach getaway, Europe has a city that will satisfy your desires.

From the romantic streets of Paris to the ancient wonders of Rome, the vibrant energy of Barcelona, the enchanting canals of Amsterdam, and the magical atmosphere of Prague, each city opens a world of exploration and adventure.

Whatever city you choose, be prepared to be captivated by its beauty, immerse yourself in its culture, indulge in its cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Embark on your 5-day European trip with excitement and anticipation, ready to embark on a journey of discovery and cultural immersion.

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Home » Travel Guides » Russia » 15 Best Day Trips from Moscow

15 Best Day Trips from Moscow

Moscow, the sprawling Russian capital, is a city that’s both full of history and contemporary culture.

This is the centre of the Russian world, a city that armies have invaded, where nations have clashed and where revolutions have played out through the centuries.

It’s a city on the fringe of Europe, but a place that is very much at the heart of European history and politics, and for visitors, it can be a complex and enthralling destination to visit.

As much as there is to see and to do in the city itself, there is just as much to experience on day trips from Moscow too.

While Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country, and many of the better-known cities such as St Petersburg or Volgograd are hundreds and hundreds of miles away, there are many more unknown and unusual destinations to visit within a few hours’ drive of the capital.

Immerse yourself in the Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields and the lavish estates of the former Russian nobility. There are rural villages, grand Orthodox Monasteries and the chance to see Russian life outside of the city first-hand.

Here are the best day trips from Moscow.

Located just an hour north of the Moscow city centre, Korolev is an area that is almost a suburb of the expansive capital, but has retained its own unique identity. During the Soviet era, this was one of the most important industrial areas in the country, because this was the base for Soviet Space Exploration.

During World War II, the factories here produced anti-tank guns that helped keep the Soviet Union in the fight. After Germany was defeated, the factories and research centres began to focus on space.

The city became a ‘Science City’ as skilled workers from across the Union came here to settle and to launch the space programme. It became one of the more affluent areas in the country, and today, that distinction can still be seen on the streets and in the buildings.

When the Soviet Union collapsed, Korolev remained the headquarters of Russian space travel and still hosts Russian Mission Control.

2. Borodino

A two-hour drive to the west of Moscow is the battlefield of Borodino. This is a place that is revered in Russian history, and which perhaps should be much more well-known in wider European history too, because this is where the infamous French General Napolean Bonaparte fought the Russians during his invasion in 1812.

Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went on to capture Moscow, this was the beginning of the end for Napolean, as he went on to be ravaged by the Russian Winter and was forced to retreat soon after.

Just outside the small village of Borodino is the green and grassy field where the battle was fought. On top of a substantial hill is a lasting monument to the important event.

Located to the south-east of Moscow is the city of Kolomna, which in comparison to the Russian capital is very much a small-town escape.

This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region and there is a long and intriguing history to be discovered in the museums and monasteries.

Interestingly, the city was off-limits for much its tenure under the Soviet Union, because it was the site of important weapons factories. It was only in 1994 that the city was opened up and even now it is still very much unknown to tourists.

Kolomna makes for a great day trip, and you can explore the restored medieval walls, and the city’s very own Kremlin, a huge fortress which dates back to the 16th century.

4. Zvenigorod

Zvenigorod is as little as an hour’s drive away from Moscow city centre, and the small town makes for a pleasant break from the capital.

Zvenigorod is an old and historic place, with a history dating back almost a thousand years.

There are some beautiful monasteries to visit as well as the unusual Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can sample and explore this aspect of the local culinary culture.

Zvenigorod was also a town where the world-renowned Anton Checkov once lived, and you can visit a museum here that’s dedicated to his life.

5. Sergiyev Posad

North of the capital is the city of Sergiyev Posad, which is one of the few well-known tourist destinations in the surrounding region.

You will find this as a suggested stop on most travel itineraries to Moscow, and many tour companies include this as part of their excursions around the city because this city is home to the famous Trinity Lavra of St Sergius.

This is a huge Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, and continues to be run by monks who look after the revered tomb of St Sergius, who was laid to rest here.

It’s an important pilgrimage place for Orthodox Christians and an important stop for tourists.

6. Kubinka Tank Museum

Outside Moscow, you can find an unusual museum which will give you a truly ‘Russian’ experience.

The Kubinka Tank Museum was once the location of a Red Army tank testing ground. Now, it’s been turned into a huge museum that showcases every conceivable type of armoured vehicle.

7. Arkhangelskoye Estate

The Arkhangelskoye Estate was built on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th century when it was constructed by a Rusian aristocratic family.

For over a century, it was the domain of the nobility, until of course, the Russian Revolution and the advent of Communism swept the family that owned the estate out of the country.

The estate was opened to the public by the Communists and turned into a museum, which it remains today.

Restoration work after the fall of the Soviet Union saved the Arkhangelskoye Estate from falling into disrepair and kept the grounds and the grand palace as a lavish example of pre-Revolution Russia.

8. Yaroslavl

Yaroslavl is found a few hours to the north of Moscow and makes for a long day trip from the city. It’s worth the journey to experience one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations.

Yaroslavl is found on the banks of the River Volga and has been a historically important city throughout Russian history. The city has even been the capital of the country at various points.

You can explore the many museums and monasteries to learn more about this intriguing destination.

9. Rostov Veliky

Just south of Yaroslavl is the small but culturally rich town of Rostov Veliky.

This is another important site in Russian history, as the town can date its origins back to early Slavic settlement around Moscow.

Lake Nero is a beautiful and expansive lake near the town, fringed on one side by an ancient fortress, giving Rostov Veliky a wonderful atmosphere to experience.

10. Vladimir

Two hours east of Moscow is another historic Russian city that is very much on the regional tourist trail.

It makes for a great day trip from the capital because Vladimir dates back to the 12th century and is full of Russian history and culture.

This was one of the first Russian capitals and it still contains many beautiful medieval buildings that are hundreds of years old.

The small town of Suzdal is just a few kilometres north of the city of Vladimir.

The town is part of a fantastic UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the historic sites from both Suzdal and Vladimir.

The town was founded in medieval times and also acted for a time as an early capital for Russian kingdoms in the region.

Klin is a fairly unassuming town to the north-west of Moscow, but it’s worth visiting to see one particular sight, the house of Tchaikovsky.

The famous 19th-century composer spent his final days here and wrote his very last piece of work in the house in Klin. It is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

It’s a grand estate and an interesting insight into pre-Soviet, Russian culture.

13. Melikova

A short trip past the Moscow suburbs will bring you to another famous estate, the house of renowned Russian writer and playwright Anton Checkov.

By the town of Checkov, which was renamed in his honour, the museum of Melikova will take you on a journey through his life and indeed, what the lives of many of his contemporary fellow Russians would have been like too.

14. Gorki Leninskie

On the southern edge of Moscow is Gorki Leniniskie.

This grand estate was once the realm of Russian nobles, but after the Russian Revolution it was personally taken over by Vladimir Lenin who turned it into his own home.

He spent much of his last years here, and after his death, the estate became a shrine to his life and legacy.

Today it still remains an interesting museum, and is still in many ways a shrine to communism.

15. Losiny Ostrov National Park

Losiny Ostrov National Park is a huge area of protected land that is found right on the edge of Moscow and is even surrounded on several sides by suburbs of the city.

It’s unusual to find such a large national park so close to a capital and it’s easy to spend the day exploring this veritable wilderness of beautiful scenery and plentiful wildlife.

15 Best Day Trips from Moscow:

• Sergiyev Posad
• Kubinka Tank Museum
• Arkhangelskoye Estate
• Rostov Veliky
• Gorki Leninskie
• Losiny Ostrov National Park

Our 10 favorite travel hacks

Want to travel better? The Upgrade has your back.

The Upgrade is By The Way’s series offering guest writers a place to share their travel hacks and hot takes. For every edition, illustrator extraordinaire Min Heo animates the advice. Below are some of our most popular entries. Some may look basic, but ask yourself: Are you optimizing your travel routine?

Want to write your own Upgrade? See how to submit here .

Dress up for your flight

David Coggins longs for the Cary Grant era of aviation, wishing more passengers would step up their game to bring some dignity and glamour to the experience. The author of “ Men and Style ” argues that making a sartorial effort shows respect to gate agents and flight attendants in uniforms — and your fellow passengers.

“I realize this is a losing battle, but it’s still a good fight,” Coggins writes. “If a sweatsuit is your truth, then there’s nothing else I can say, other than nobody has looked good in a sweatsuit in the history of the world.”

He’s not sure if wearing that checked blazer will really get you upgraded to first class , but it couldn’t hurt.

Visit ‘second cities’ in Europe

Rick Steves is our favorite pétanque-playing philanthropist . He’s a respected travel expert, too. In his beloved Europe, Rick recommends you break up every visit to a capital with a final day in a “ second city .” Think Porto vs. Lisbon , Glasgow vs. Edinburgh and Marseille vs. Paris .

“While lacking the popularity and the bucket-list sights,” Steves writes, “Europe’s second cities tend to enjoy a creative edge, a strong civic spirit, a Rust Belt toughness, fun-loving eateries with cutting-edge menus, entertaining street art … and far fewer tourists, which also means lower prices, a more authentic welcome and arguably a more honest cultural experience.”

Pick your travel uniform

Like Steve Jobs and many practitioners of quiet luxury , travel writer Jessica Poitevien is all about eliminating decision fatigue. Standardizing a set of clothes only for flying doesn’t just help you streamline your packing routine. Poitevien “doesn’t worry about leaving anything important behind, because I have two of everything: one that’s for home and one that sits in my backpack waiting for the next trip. All I add is my passport, laptop and current reading material, and I’m good to go.”

What’s her uniform look like?

“My top is always a long, loosefitting T-shirt or sweater, so I’m covered through all the bending and lifting that happens with luggage and going through security,” Poitevien writes. “I add a jean jacket to stay warm on those freezing planes and use its inner pockets to keep my phone, passport and boarding pass within easy reach.”

Cut your airport arrival dangerously close

It’s not for the faint of heart, but travel writer Brad Japhe wants to waste as little of his life in airports as possible.

“I live about five miles from Los Angeles International Airport,” Japhe writes, “and if my scheduled domestic flight is at, say, 9 a.m., I’m comfortable entering an Uber up until 8:32 a.m.”

Besides some serious bravado, pulling this off requires the use of PreCheck or Clear, among other conditions:

• Traveling solo .
• Express security lanes .
• A familiar airport.
• No checked bags .

Order the Hindu meal

Food and travel writer David Farley thinks we should reject the binary of chicken or pasta in favor of a plant-based meal that exudes spice . By reserving a Hindu meal on your next long-haul flight, you could be treating yourself to dal makhani and naan, or bhindi masala and raita. As long as you reserve your meal at least 24 hours ahead of your flight, airlines told us, you won’t be taking a special one away from anyone else.

Get up early on vacation

Life is short. So take a cue from the dad playbook, and seize the vacation day with an early wake-up call . For Deputy Features Editor Amanda Finnegan , rising with the sun means hours of calm before your travel partners join you. And by 10 a.m., you’re ready for your first nap.

Make a fashion statement in black and blue

Rachel Tashjian ’s job is cooler than your job. As a fashion writer, she flies to Europe three or four times a year for work, watching extravagant clothes appear in fashion shows for weeks at a time . It’s a dream, but there’s an understandable amount of pressure to look amazing every single day. Enter the black-and-blue hack . By mixing a pop of navy in with a collection of dark pieces, you’re making the daring choice to break one of the primary rules of fashion.

Her packing list:

• Two skirts: something that flows and something that hugs.
• Three jackets: a classic blazer, something weird and an open-front wool jacket.
• One pair of trousers.
• One black dress.
• Three T-shirts.
• Black shoes.

Stop eating airport food

Noah Galuten is a hero hubby. By the simple act of making his wife a sandwich to take to the airport, the Los Angeles-based chef and author had the epiphany that we should all swear off precooked egg patties forever .

Sure, you could settle for upcharged coffee, a Dunkin’ wrap or a sad Caesar from “Weirdly Branded Bar & Grill You Have Never Heard Of.” Or, you could be the game-changer for your household, whipping up breakfast burritos or English muffin sandwiches — or just buying a better sandwich in advance in the real world (see: Emily’s Pork Store , Brooklyn).

Take a solo trip

The secret to a happy relationship is compromise. And giving your partner time to travel solo — especially if you’ve got a kid at home.

That’s the philosophy preached by writer Austin Graff , an extrovert who has learned to appreciate the benefits of going it alone: It’s easier to get into top-rated restaurants, there’s time to wander, and you return to your family more thoughtful and present.

Take a buffer day

The weekend-warrior routine is for people in their 20s. Once you’re in your 30s, Rachel Orr writes, you know well enough to quit pushing so hard and to give yourself an extra day to chill before rushing back to work . “Think of it as a mini staycation at the end of your vacation,” she suggests.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

The best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare in 2024

Editor's Note

• The best days to fly for the cheapest domestic and international fares are midweek.
• Aim to book domestic flights one to two months ahead of time. 
• For international flights, plan on booking three to five months ahead of the trip.

At TPG, one of our key goals is to help you find the cheapest airfare . However, your ability to find valuable airline deals depends on a few factors.

Flights during the peak of summer and, of course, the holidays are often much more expensive. Still, there are ways to hedge your bets and get better deals than others. That said, some of the common tips people tout are flat-out false.

Have you ever heard that booking a flight on a certain day of the week will yield the cheapest results? Perhaps you're thinking of a cousin who claims he found a great deal when he checked on airfare prices at 12:01 a.m. on a Wednesday. Maybe your friend swears by setting a reminder on their phone for 1 p.m. on a Thursday when shopping for flights.

There's just no truth to that legend.

While there is no shortage of rumors (and "studies"), here's what airfare experts say about how timing influences airfare prices so you can maximize airfare savings.

Is there a day that's cheaper than others to book a flight?

It's a question we get asked all the time: "What is the cheapest day to book a flight?" There's a common misperception that certain days are better for finding flight deals. However, research shows that this is a myth.

There is no magic day to book, but there are some sweet booking windows when airlines lower prices, according to Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at the booking app Hopper .

Hopper relies on 10 years of data and 80 trillion flight prices to recommend the best time to book specific routes and dates.

"Typically, we tell travelers for domestic trips to start monitoring prices three to four months in advance of a trip," Schwimer said. "Expect to book one to two months in advance."

For international trips, the booking window is a bit larger. You should start monitoring six to seven months prior to the trip and book it three to five months in advance. That's the recommendation from both Hopper and TPG.

"When you're traveling internationally, planning ahead is key to getting the cheapest airfare," Hayley Berg, Hopper's lead economist, said in another interview. "Travelers often book international flights too far in advance or too last minute, overpaying significantly for their tickets."

Remember that the strategy changes pretty dramatically if you book with points and miles . Airlines often open award space for coveted business- and first-class seats either when the schedules open or at the last minute.

As for whether there's a particular day that's cheaper than the rest for booking, Schwimer mentioned that "there's no one day or golden rule when to book."

Berg echoed this sentiment.

"There's a common myth that 'booking on a Tuesday' will guarantee a traveler the best price," she said. "The reality is prices change so often and depend on the route, the travel dates, etc., that there isn't one day that guarantees you the best price."

What's the best day to travel?

Although airfare prices fluctuate based on when you book, midweek travel is generally cheaper than flying on weekends. That said, Sundays can also be a sweet spot.

"Flying midweek can save you nearly $100 off your ticket," Schwimer said. "So when you're thinking about when you want to travel, try shifting your dates midweek versus flying over the weekend. If you can be flexible and book either a Tuesday or Wednesday versus a Friday or Saturday, you're gonna save significantly off your trip."

Berg had similar thoughts.

"Travelers who fly midweek, usually Wednesday, can save an average of $56 per ticket on domestic airfare throughout the year," she said. "Midweek savings spike over $60 per ticket during busy spring break and summer vacation months, while flying midweek over the holidays can save you $100 or more."

Schwimer also had some good advice to price the first flight of the day. Often, you'll find those early departures can save you some big bucks. It's not easy to set the alarm for 4 a.m., but it's easier to wake up when you know you're saving money.

"We always recommend booking the first flight of the day, not only to avoid delays and cancellations but also in terms of price," she said.

Additionally, according to Bob Harrell — an airfare consultant at Harrell Associates who analyzes airline pricing — you might also find airfare prices fluctuate Monday through Friday. That's because airlines look at customer demand and monitor booking trends to decide whether to open or close certain types of fares and whether to raise or lower existing fares.

So, how can you use this information to your advantage when buying airline tickets?

Try using a price monitoring tool to get real-time updates to help you decide when to travel for the lowest fare. Tools like Google Flights and Hopper's "Watch This Trip" can help you track the price of your desired route before booking; they will indicate or directly notify you when prices are at the lowest for your trip.

When to book holiday travel

Best time to book flights for summer trips.

It's not too late to look for deals for summer travel.

Berg said that prices tend to drop on average one to two months before departure, but lately, we are seeing a lot of last-minute travel deals — even to Europe.

"Prices will change frequently," Berg said. "Don't wait too long to book, as prices can increase by almost double in the last three weeks ahead of takeoff."

If you are already looking ahead to next summer, Hopper recommends monitoring flight prices at least three to four months in advance and then booking one to two months before the intended travel date.

If you plan to head abroad next summer, the booking window is naturally further out, particularly for longer-haul transpacific flights.

"For trips to Asia and Oceania, we recommend booking five to seven months before takeoff," Berg said. "For Europe and other regions of the world, we recommend booking anywhere from three to six months before departure to get the best prices."

Best time to book flights for spring break

The best time to book your spring break trip is similar to the timeline for summer trips. You should begin monitoring prices for your desired destination three to four months in advance, depending on when your (and your family's) time off falls. Set Google Flights alerts now for upcoming trips you have in mind.

For example, if your spring break falls in March, the ideal time to book is before early February. Flexibility will also help here.

Remember that demand surges during the spring break period after the doldrums of winter. Many people wait too long to book those trips and end up paying more than they need to.

Hopper says airfare prices will fall between one and three months before departure and rise rapidly in the last three to four weeks before spring break.

Best time to book flights for Thanksgiving and Christmas

The cheapest holiday airfare deals are generally available in September and October.

"We tell people to start monitoring in August," Schwimer said, "but our typical book-by date is mid-October, so usually around the 14th of October." She added that "no later than Halloween is usually our book-by date for both Thanksgiving and Christmas."

Similarly, a Google Flights booking trends report suggested that average flight prices around Christmas were lowest 71 days before departure.

Prices will only rise as the holidays approach, so your best bet is to book sooner rather than later.

Best time to book flights for New Year's Eve

Like Christmas flights, Hopper says you should try to lock in bookings for New Year's by Halloween at the latest.

That is true for "really any of the major winter holidays," Berg said. "We recommend booking further in advance. I would book that New Year's Eve trip as well before Halloween."

What about hotels?

Hotels are a special category where you can often wait until much later to score good deals.

"We often see good deals last minute for hotels in big cities. Something to keep in mind ... especially for those holiday weekends," Schwimer told TPG. "And you know that [during] the Christmas holiday period, you can often find some really great last-minute deals in big cities if you wait.

"Obviously, that's not always ideal in terms of planning," Schwimer continued, "but we have seen some really great deals in that last-minute window in big metro cities."

Bottom line

While there is no magical time or day to book airfare for the best prices, your best bet is to fly midweek, specifically on Wednesdays, for both domestic and international travel. Flying over the weekend can come at a significant price premium, though Sundays have occasional deals.

Also, try booking domestic flights one to two months ahead of time.

For international flights, your best bet is to aim to book three to five months ahead of the trip.

If you are using airline miles , remember that it's never too soon to start checking and booking.

Related reading:

• Best airline credit cards
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations

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The EU targets Russia’s LNG ghost fleet with sanctions as concern mounts about hybrid attacks

FILE - An oil tanker is moored at the Sheskharis complex, part of Chernomortransneft JSC, a subsidiary of Transneft PJSC, in Novorossiysk, Russia, on Oct. 11, 2022, one of the largest facilities for oil and petroleum products in southern Russia. The European Union on Monday slapped new sanctions on Russia over its war on Ukraine, targeting Moscow’s shadow fleet of tankers moving liquefied natural gas through Europe as well as several companies. (AP Photo, File)

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BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union on Monday slapped new sanctions on Russia over its war on Ukraine, targeting Moscow’s shadow fleet of tankers moving liquefied natural gas through Europe as well as several companies.

At a meeting in Luxembourg, where the sanctions were endorsed, EU foreign ministers also agreed on new financial support to help Ukraine defend itself. Some expressed concern about a rise in hybrid attacks by Russia – including allegations of election interference, cyber-attacks and sabotage.

In an effort to push Russia into using more costly routes for energy purposes, the ministers said in a statement, the EU will “forbid reloading services of Russian LNG in EU territory for the purpose of transshipment operations to third countries.”

The EU estimates that about 4-to-6 billion cubic meters (141 billion-212 billion cubic feet) of Russian LNG was shipped to third countries via EU ports last year. Russia is suspected of running a “ghost fleet” of up to 400 ships to evade sanctions and keep up the flow of energy earnings so that it can finance the war.

The measures will target ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore transfers as well as reloading operations. It also involves a crackdown on the re-export of LNG to third countries via the EU, plus a ban on new investments to help Russia complete LNG projects it is working on.

Scores of new “entities” – often companies, banks, agencies and other organizations – were added to the EU’s list, including some in China, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Many are accused of circumventing the bloc’s sanctions or providing sensitive equipment to Russia.

More than 50 officials are also being targeted with asset freezes, as well as travel bans. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and scores of lawmakers and several oligarchs are among more than 1,700 people already listed by the EU .

Over 400 entities previously hit include companies working in the military, aviation, shipbuilding and machinery sectors, the Wagner mercenary group, political parties and banks. Around 210 billion euros ($225 billion) worth of Russian Central Bank assets are blocked in the EU.

After chairing the meeting, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that “Putin wants to prove that Ukraine is vulnerable, and we have to prove that we will support Ukraine.”

Borrell said that an agreement was reached to provide Ukraine with 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) in July, and a further 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion) by the end of the year, to boost its stocks of air defense equipment and ammunition, and to help bolster the country’s defense industry.

The money would be drawn from profits made from frozen Russian assets held in Europe, he said.

Earlier, some ministers had insisted that action must be taken to end hybrid attacks in Europe by Russia that take place in a “grey zone” just below the threshold of military action which are aimed at destabilizing Ukraine’s backers.

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said that “there’s a plethora of actions they have been undertaking against European countries.” Finland has closed border crossings with Russia, blaming the Kremlin for an orchestrated campaign exploiting migrants.

“There is no observer status in Europe anymore to Russia’s aggression. We are all victims of Russia’s aggression,” she said. “It is crucial that we keep on aiding Ukraine because Russia only understands power.”

Her Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis, said there is “ample evidence” of malign activity by Russia.

“Unfortunately, I don’t think that we are yet sending the right message,” he said. “Moscow has to get a very clear message that whenever they escalate, they will receive an answer from our side.”

NATO warned in May of Russian “hostile state activity” toward both their countries, as well as against the Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Latvia, Poland and the U.K., and said that the Kremlin’s actions “constitute a threat to allied security.”

In a separate move, the EU imposed sanctions on two people accused of online espionage with the “Callisto group,” Ruslan Peretyatko and Andrey Korinets. It said the group has waged cyber operations against EU member countries to try to steal sensitive defense and diplomatic data.

Also targeted for hacking activities and spreading malicious software were members of the “Armageddon hacker” and “Wizard Spider” groups.

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Traveling During a Heat Wave: Tips and Precautions

It’s summer and the temperature is rising. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

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By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Follow our updates for the latest on the heat wave across the U.S.

It’s set to be another scorching summer, with extreme and prolonged heat waves forecast across many parts of the United States and Europe.

The stifling conditions could impact millions of travelers and wreak havoc on vacations at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Multiple heat-related deaths among tourists have been reported in Greece and Saudi Arabia in June following extreme temperatures in the Middle East and Aegean regions. Even those who have booked trips in traditionally cooler places may not be spared from the summer heat because of the growing unpredictability of weather patterns.

Here are some tips on how to manage high temperatures when traveling in a heat zone.

Check government guidance

If a heat wave has been forecast at your destination, check government websites before embarking on your trip to give yourself plenty of time to plan and adapt. In extreme temperatures, governments often issue heat advisories warning people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and provide resources to help residents and visitors stay cool. In the United States, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System has a website with information and tools to help prevent illness and death during excessive heat.

Tourist attractions also provide important updates about the conditions at the sights, including any scheduled closures, as a precaution against high temperatures. Some cities grappling with intensive heat, like Los Angeles, Miami, Athens and Melbourne, have assigned chief heat officers to prepare for the heat waves and lead emergency responses.

Avoid peak sun hours

It may seem obvious, but staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time when the sun is at its peak can put many at risk of heat exhaustion. Even if the temperature does not read exceptionally high, excessive dry heat or humidity can make an environment feel hotter than it is.

Travel advisers are adapting itineraries, putting sightseeing in the cooler early morning and evening hours and prebooking tickets for their clients so they do not have to wait in long lines.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

Hiking in the middle of the day is also not advised. On June 5, Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical journalist, died during an afternoon hike in a 104-degree heat wave on the Greek Island of Symi. Four more tourists, including an American man , have recently died in Greece as temperatures have continued to soar.

“I would always recommend going hiking with a certified local guide and under no circumstances alone,” said Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel adviser for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel . “Of course, avoid the hottest hours of the day. Go hiking very early in the morning. And always stick to official hiking trails.”

In some European cities, including Paris and London, air conditioning is not a given, so check if it is available before booking a hotel, restaurant or transportation to ensure you have a cool place to find respite from the scorching heat. Visiting a museum or other indoor sightseeing is another good option, but expect crowds at peak hours.

Stay hydrated and take a siesta

Dehydration and heatstroke are among the most common causes of hospitalization during heat waves and can be prevented by staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption. During meals, consider eating foods like melons, cucumbers and celery as it can help to sustain hydration throughout the day. Always carry a water bottle with you and consider a parasol and portable fan to help keep you cool and shaded when outdoors.

While your itinerary may be packed with activities and tours, the heat can take a toll on stamina, so consider following the European siesta ritual by breaking up your day with a short nap.

“I’m telling my clients to adapt their itineraries and take advantage of the after-lunch siesta and then push their tours to later in the day when it’s cooler,” said Sarah Johnson, who owns Paper Ink & Passports Travel, a luxury travel company based in Pennsylvania. “There’s a reason they’ve been doing it in Spain and Italy for generations. Walking around in the midday heat and waiting in line could really hurt some people.”

Wear cool clothing

The National Weather Service recommends lightweight, loosefitting, light-colored clothing for outdoor use as it reflects heat and sunlight . Hats and sunscreen are also recommended to protect the face and scalp from harmful UV rays.

Just because it’s hot, doesn’t mean it will be dry. Heat waves can bring torrential rainfall, so be prepared.

“My biggest advice to travelers is to be prepared — for hot or cold, dry or wet weather since one never knows,” said Laurel Brunvoll, the owner of Unforgettable Trips , a Maryland-based travel agency. “Pack layers.”

Book a flexible trip

Even after taking all the right precautions, traveling in a heat wave can be miserable, making it worthwhile to make flexible bookings and purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance to have the option to postpone your trip to a cooler time.

Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. Travelers booking through a Sensible partner in the United States will be able to add daily protection that will allow them to claim reimbursement for a booking if the temperature exceeds a threshold that is usually set between 90 and 100 degrees.

“Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder, who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold.

For more travel advice, visit our collection of Travel 101 tips and hacks.

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

What to Know During Extreme Heat

Staying Safe:  We asked emergency room doctors for their advice on protecting yourself  from dehydration, heat stroke and other serious health problems.

Heat’s Physical Toll:  High temperatures can put the body under immense stress. Here’s what it looks like .

Effect on the Brain:  While heat can have an alarming impact on our bodies, it can also impair cognition and make us irritable, impulsive and aggressive .

Keeping Cool Indoors:  Too hot to go outside? Here’s how to be comfortable in your home  — with or without air-conditioning.

Sleeping Tips:  Heat can affect both how much you sleep and how good that sleep is. These simple steps  can help you get a better night’s rest when it’s hot.

Medications:  Certain antidepressants, blood pressure pills and other drugs make you more susceptible to heat-related illness .

Travel:  Stifling conditions could impact your travel plans this summer. Use these tips and precautions  to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.