Escape and explore with our top European city breaks

If you're looking to jet off somewhere not too far away, escape to Europe and explore one of these top destinations for a city break. With plenty of activities to lose yourself in, delectable cuisines to indulge in, and captivating histories and cultures to explore, it's time to lose yourself in a new city. We've rounded up some of Europe's most picturesque destinations. The hardest part is deciding which to visit first!

Copenhagen

The colourful cultural capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen is widely considered to be one of the most unique cities to experience in Europe and attracts around 12.8 million tourists annually.

It’s first and foremost known to be one of the best biking cities in the world, with around 49% of commuters using bikes to travel to work and with some of the city’s most popular attractions accessible on two wheels, there’s no better way to get around. Having opened in 2012 and located in the heart of the city, Superkilen Park is a perfect stop on a sunny afternoon bike ride. Uniquely designed with the intention of promoting unity and tolerance, it is as much a piece of art as it is a space to enjoy with the locals. Its eye-catching design and innovative architecture make it one of Copenhagen’s most intriguing and popular outdoor spaces to visit. Cycling with kids? Ride over to the Children’s Traffic Playground, where the staff can teach children how to cycle, plus there’s even a mini course for them to practise on. Rental bikes with free helmets are available on location for children aged between 2 and 8 years old.

Copenhagen is a beautiful coastal city, the options on where to dip your toes in the water are endless. Dive in at one of the many harbour baths where the water is beautifully clear and offers the perfect complement to a sunny day - though a coastal stroll may be better if you're visiting outside of the summer seasons! One such option, the Sandkaj Harbour Bath, is open year-round and has a wide range of cafes and restaurants nearby to refuel and relax. However, if you’re seeking a sandy day out, you can’t go wrong with Svanemølle Beach. Located in the Østerbro district, at the bottom of Svanemølle Bay, it offers 4,000 square metres of sandy banks and family-friendly shallow waters, as well as an accompanying pier. Bellevue Beach, another popular destination for locals and tourists alike, sees around 500,000 visitors per year. It’s only 10km from the city centre and is easily accessible by a range of transport links or, if you’re looking for a little more adventure, a 45-minute bike ride away! With plenty of space for volleyball and water sports, plus a nearby animal park, it’s the perfect spot to visit for some summer family fun.

Whether you are traveling solo or with family and friends, Copenhagen offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable summer holiday that will exceed any and all expectations. Consider Copenhagen for a city break this year and enjoy a delightfully Danish experience.

Click here to book your Copenhagen city break >

Budapest

An all-round crowd-pleaser, this Hungarian holiday haven has continued to grow in popularity with tourists in recent years. The awe-inspiring monuments and stunningly detailed and historic architecture of the city paired with the sheer volume of fun activities makes Budapest a city you have to tick off your list! Although known to be a year-round destination thanks to its festive charm in the winter months, the, the city truly comes alive in the summertime. Budapest is saturated with serene parks, quirkily decorated ruin bars and delightful restaurants, all set beside the trailing Danube River. It’s also well-known for its incredibly efficient and affordable public transport network, making your exploration so much easier!

Be sure to set aside some time to explore the picturesque and historic side of the city known as Buda. Here, you’ll find some of Hungary’s finest architectural sites like Buda Castle. Initially completed in 1265, most of the royal palace was developed between 1749 and 1769 although it is still being expanded upon today. There are opportunities to take walking tours of the site and learn the history behind the structure but be sure to head over to Fisherman’s Bastion for the very best panoramic views of the entire city, including the opulent Parliament building that majestically sits upon the eastern bank of the river.

*Top tip: book a sunset cruise down the Danube River to see Budapest lit in all its glory, there are so many to choose from, some including dinner and drinks!

Heading over the chain bridge to the eastern side of the city, Pest, where you’ll come to find that this is truly the beating heart of the city. The streets are flooded with local eateries, bars, and eccentric shops, perfect for finding the most unique souvenirs. Check out the Great Market Hall where you can browse trinket-filled stalls, pick up some fresh produce, and try some local cuisine, including a hearty bowl of goulash. The city also houses a plethora of museums, giving you some insight into the country’s history and some key historic events. Why not book a visit to the Hungarian National Museum, the House of Terror or the National Gallery for a well-rounded and culture-filled visit?

Sitting on a patchwork of more than a hundred thermal springs, don’t leave Budapest without ‘taking the waters’ at one of the city’s bathhouses. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most famous in the city and is a sure favourite among tourists and locals alike. With an onsite bar and restaurant, a swimwear shop, private and secure changing rooms, indoor and outdoor baths, and even a wave machine, you’re guaranteed to spend most of the day soaking away your cares. The baths are open until 7pm with the last entry at 6 pm. If you stay long enough, you’ll witness the iconic yellow architecture of the baths backlit by the setting sun.

Indulge in a memorable adventure by exploring the enchanting and picturesque city of Budapest. With its architectural grandeur, vibrant nightlife, tantalizing cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, Budapest is the ideal destination to explore all year round.

Book your Budapest city break here >

Paris

Not unlike Budapest, Paris is known to be a magical city to visit at any time of year. One of the most alluring factors of visiting the French capital is that during the high season, the sun doesn’t set until around 9 pm, meaning that most of Paris’ attractions extend their opening times to accommodate the longer days. Pedestrianised streets with al fresco dining, rooftop bars, bar-péniches and street festivals are a common sight, along with the abundance of museums and galleries to peruse at your leisure.

If you’re lucky enough to holiday in Paris in mid-July, you’ll be witnessing one of, if not the, biggest national celebrations of the summer. Bastille Day, more regionally referred to as La Fête Nationale, sees the country enter grand festivities that manifest a military ceremony and parade down the Avenue des Champs Élysées accompanied by a fantastic flyover of military aircraft. After that, bring a picnic down to the Champ des Mars where free concerts are available to attend, one of the most popular being the Bals des Pompiers (Firemen’s Balls).

The day culminates at the foot of the Eiffel Tower where you’re subject to the most dazzling firework display, illuminating the Parisian night sky. The display begins promptly at 11 pm once the sky is almost completely dark and lasts for around 35 minutes. For an alternative view, why not book a night-time cruise on the river Seine and enjoy dinner with the most spectacular view?

If you're visiting Dinsneyland Paris, don’t let the idea of large crowds deter you from considering spending a day or two at the happiest place on earth. The resort’s busiest period is from July to August - but book a weekday visit around June and you’ll find the park to be noticeably less crowded!

What’s left to do but stroll down the winding roads of Paris and discover enticing patisseries and fromageries alongside pavement cafes and chic bars? Spend an afternoon visiting Louvre and Musee d’Orsay before heading to dinner – take your pick from cosy bistros or triple-Michelin-starred establishments. Of course, we can’t forget about a healthy dose of holiday retail therapy. Explore the city centre and uncover some of the most luxurious and ostentatious boutiques to find the perfect Parisian souvenir.

Indulge in a truly enchanting French escape this year and let yourself be swept away by the timeless charm and unparalleled beauty of the romantic city of Paris. With its iconic landmarks, artistic treasures, gourmet cuisine and so much more, Paris is the perfect city to explore.

Your Paris city break awaits, click here to book today >  

Bergen

Nestled along the picturesque southwestern coastline of Norway, flanked by the magnificent Seven Mountains, lies the alluring city of Bergen. The city’s idyllic natural beauty, pretty waterfront buildings, and rich cultural history make Bergen a must-visit destination for anyone looking to bask in the beauty of Scandinavia and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a fan of outdoor adventures, arts and culture, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Bergen has something for everyone.

Steeped in fascinating history, Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf is an absolute must-see, and during the summer months the wharf comes to life as locals and tourists alike flock to visit its charming wooden buildings, quaint shops & cafes and lively atmosphere. The cobblestone streets are rife with street performances of live music and other entertainment, drawing small crowds and spreading smiles to passers-by. One of the main attractions that lure tourists to visit is the Hanseatic Museum, providing visitors with a unique and very real glimpse into the city’s history as a major centre for the Hanseatic League. The museum features authentic reconstructions of the Hanseatic merchants' quarters and provides visitors with an immersive experience of what life was like in Bergen during this period.

*Top tip: book yourself a tour on a clear summers evening for a chance to see the natural wonder of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky

Heading over to the north-eastern side of the city, you’ll find the neighbouring summit of Mount Fløyen. Standing 319 meters tall, this grand peak provides tourists with incredible panoramic views of Bergen. You can hike to the summit, however, if you’re travelling with little ones or just prefer a more relaxing journey, you can catch a ride on the Fløibanen, an 844-meter railway that carries visitors to the top where you can absorb breath-taking views. The other famous peak of Bergen is its tallest - Mount Ulriken. Experienced hikers and explorers will be keen to know that there’s a 5-hour hike called the Vidden Trail connects Mount Ulriken and Mount Fløyen. Like it’s counterpart, there is an accessible (and seriously fun) way to get to the top. The Ulriken Cable Car is a popular attraction that takes around 7 minutes to climb the mountain. When you arrive to the top, not only are you greeted with equally beautiful views of the city below, but also a delightful restaurant to refuel and recharge.

Sticking with the theme of the great outdoors, Bergen's natural beauty extends to its awe-inspiring waterways. The city rests between two of Norway’s largest fjords and visitors will have no issues finding cruise tours from Bergen that will allow them the opportunity to admire the unforgettable fjords from the surrounding waters.

For fresh-food fans, be sure to take a trip to Bergen’s historical Fish Market, located right at the heart of the city centre. The market dates back to the 1200s and historically has been a significant gathering point for merchants, fishermen locals and travellers. Throughout the duration of the summer months, visitors can expect their tastebuds to be tantalised with fresh seafood including freshly cooked crab, shrimp and other regional seafood.

Take a trip to Bergen, Norway this summer and bask in the rich blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Every moment in Bergen promises to be a unique and enriching experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, get ready to explore, and discover the magic of Bergen this summer.

Book your beautiful Bergen city break here >