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