Top 5 Spots for a Weekend Break in Europe

Whether the sun is shining or the icy winter winds are whipping at your face, there is never a bad time for a weekend break. Europe is blessed geographically as it contains dozens of countries within close proximity of one another. This means you can travel between nations quickly and easily so a weekend is all you need to experience the place. Ok, maybe a long weekend.

Here are some of the top places on the continent for a weekend getaway. Leave Friday morning and come back Sunday and make sure your weekend is packed with as much adventure as possible. But, be warned: your Monday blues may be even worse than usual.

Amsterdam

There is nothing quite like strolling around the narrow canals that carve through the city of Amsterdam. The water, flanked by beautiful old houses, glistens in the sunlight and leads wanderers through some of Amsterdam’s most delightful areas. Walking through the city is an activity in itself but if you need more stimulation there are numerous museums, galleries and parks to explore.

Paris

Paris is one of the world’s most popular destinations – and with good reason. The city is peppered with iconic landmarks, not least the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe. Once you’ve taken in your fill of famous monuments, direct your attention to some of the city’s bustling parks and cultural areas, including the Jardin de Tuileries and the Marais, where you might just find the best falafel you’ve ever eaten.

Venice

Nowhere can beat Venice when it comes to aesthetics. Often considered the most beautiful city in the world, Venice will blow you away. Everywhere you look is yet more outstanding architecture to ogle at or a shot that would be oh-so perfect for your Instagram. From your vantage point of a gondola along one of the canals, the city is your muse. Once you’re back on dry land, explore the narrow streets and take in a gallery or two to see exactly why Italy is the cradle of modern civilisation.

Barcelona

Barcelona is where people go when they want the buzz of a modern, thriving city, but also a beach to lounge on in the afternoons. It is a metropolis with an easy escape route to nature. Of course, that is not the only appeal of Barcelona, but it is a big swaying factor. Other points of interest in the city include the breath-taking Sagrada Familia Cathedral and the Casa Milà, both of which were designed by the legendary artist Gaudí. On top of all of this, you’ll find plenty of quirky bars serving jugs of sangria and bowls of tapas. What’s not to love?

Budapest

And now for something a little different. Sitting in Central Europe, Budapest is notably different to the West Europe cities mentioned so far. The most striking thing about Budapest is how cheap it is. Your money will go a long way in this wonderful city. Take a boat ride along the Danube that cuts through the city, dividing the regions of Buda and Pest. From here you will be able to take in the magnificent Houses of Parliament as well as Buda Castle. When you’re ready for a bit of rest and relaxation, the Szechenyi Thermal Baths should be your first port of call.