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City Breaks

Get ready to jet set on an adventure-packed city break.

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Iceland, Niagara Falls & New York City

Departures between 01/02/2024 and 31/12/2024

Check out this excellent holiday combination with the contrasting wonders of Reykjavik’s natural beauty, the thundering majesty of Niagara Falls...

Discovering Seoul

Departures between 01/01/2024 and 31/12/2024

Welcome to Seoul, nestled in the heart of South Korea, where tradition and modernity converge to create a dynamic metropolis offering a unique blend o...

Hamburg City Break

Departures between 01/02/2024 and 01/10/2024

Set your sights on Hamburg, Germany’s second city, nestled in the north where the River Elbe meets the sea. Whether you’re young or young ...

Venice City Break

Departures between 06/05/2024 and 30/11/2024

Embark on an enchanting city break to Venice, also known as La Serenissima, where every stride is a brushstroke on the canvas of Renaissance beauty....

Krakow City Break

Departures between 01/05/2024 and 30/11/2024

Poland’s most recognisable city and once the seat of Polish kings, it is by far the most visited city in the country today. With its Old Town surrou...

Halifax Experience

Departures between 01/05/2024 and 31/10/2024

Experience a rich tapestry of history and maritime allure on our Halifax City Stay package. Explore the city independently, from the iconic Citadel Hi...

Quebec City Experience

As the beating heart of Francophone society in Canada, Quebec City represents the incredible melding of history, art and culture while also celebratin...

Montreal Experience

Departures between 01/05/2024 and 15/10/2024

Explore the best of Montréal, including a sightseeing tour past the city’s historic and modern landmarks. Experience Canada’s French heritage on ...

Toronto and Niagara Falls Experience

Canada’s most multicultural city and one of the great natural wonders of the world are combined in this exciting four-night package. Discover Toront...

Toronto Experience

Explore the best of Toronto and its pedestrian-friendly streets lined with captivating cafes, galleries, and museums. Enjoy a hop-on hop-off sightseei...

New York Christmas Shopping Break

Departures on 06/12/2024

Experience the ultimate pre-Christmas shopping trip in New York. Few places exude yuletide joy like New York, with iceskating, decorations, lights and...

Toronto and Niagara Falls

Departures on 03/12/2024

Experience the sheer force of nature at one of the natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls, and there are plenty of ways to view and experience th...

Munich City Break – Visit the Christmas Markets

Embrace the enchanting spirit of the holiday season with a festive city break in Munich, Germany, renowned for its magical Christmas markets. Immerse ...

• Destination/Resort Greece Spain Abu Dhabi Alaska Albufeira Albufeira Alcúdia Algarve Alvor Amsterdam Athens & Mykonos Austria Azores Bansko Bansko (€) Bardolino Borovets Borovets Borovets - Short Break Borovets (€) Borovets, Bulgaria Canada CANADA CANADA Canada, USA Canary Islands Cancún City in Mexico Caribbean Castelleto Di Brenzone Central America Cheltenham, England Chepelare Chepelare (€) CORFU Crete Island in Greece Croatia & Slovenia Cyprus Desenzano Del Garda Desenzano del Garda Dubai Dubai East Africa Egypt England Europe Garda Germany Goa Greece Greek Isles Hungary Hungary (€) IBIZA Iceland, Canada and USA Iceland, New York India Indonesia Ireland Italy Itlay Japan Jersey Kirchberg Lazise Lido Di Jesolo Lisbon to New York London Magaluf Majorca Malaysia Malcesine Maldives Mauritius Maxico Mediterranean Monaco Monaco (€) Montenegro Monza - Italy Monza - Italy (€) Morocco Mykonos New York NI Away Games North America Pamporovo Pamporovo Pamporovo - Short Break Pamporovo (€) Peschiera Del Garda Phuket Island, Thailand Poiana Brasov - Romania Poiana Brasov - Romania Poland Portugal Premier League Riva del Garda Riva Del Garda Romania Scotland Seychelles Seychelles Shri Lanka Silverstone - UK Silverstone - UK (€) Sirmione South Africa South Africa and East Africa South Asia South Korea Spa - Belgium Spa - Belgium (€) Spain Spain, Portugal & Gibraltar Sri Lanka St Johann Sunny Beach Thailand Thailand The Canaries, North Africa and Southern Spain The Czech Republic The Maldives Torbole, Riva del Garda Turkey Tuscany, Italy UAE UAE UK UK (€) UK Theatre Breaks UKUSA United Arab Emirates United States USA USA Vietnam Wales Westendorf Zakynthos Zell Am See

TRAVEL BLOG

LONG WEEKEND CITY GUIDES

75+ great destinations for your next city break….

Ever wanted all the information you need for a rip-roaring romance of a weekend city break in one easily-bookmarkable place? Just the very best of a destination distilled into a single page of sizzling hot tips, with sights that are actually worth seeing, hotels with towels worth stealing, restaurants to rave home about, bars ripe with swashbuckling adventure and experiences so great you’ll want to tell someone else’s grandchildren about them. Introducing Urban Travel Blog’s “Long Weekend” Guides…

Each of our lovingly-compiled city guides is written by a real insider who knows their metropolitan muse inside out, and each includes ten handy sections such as “Best of the Beaten Track” for first time visitors who want to catch the unmissable attractions, to “Hipster’s Guide” where we highlight some alternative treasures (hint: you might want to check out our new Secret Seven adventures as well if this sounds like you!), and expert recommendations on the best hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs…. plus lots lots more!

Below you’ll find links to more than 60 guides to some of the greatest cities on the globe, organised under the categories UK, Europe, North America (including Canadian cities), South America, Asia (please note, without any massive deliberation we’ve filed cities from Eurasia, such as Tbilisi and Yerevan, and the Middle East, such as Dubai, here), Australia and Africa. Whether you already know where you’re going and you’re here for some great insider tips, or if you’re looking for ideas for your next weekend away, we’re confident you’ll find lots of fantastic information – and inspiration right here. So why not take a look and judge for yourself?

Your favourite city not yet covered? We suggest you subscribe to get the latest guides as soon as they come out! We’ve also started to list our favourite cities by theme, starting with our articles on the most affordable weekends away in Europe as well as the best cities for a romantic break .

UK CITY GUIDES

Bournemouth City Break

This south coast sizzler has succeeded in reinventing itself as a hip weekend getaway for Londoners and beyond, with a new wave of great restaurants, spas and boutique hotels. Meanwhile the nightlife is in no danger of slowing down...

Brighton City Break

The UK's very own Berlin-by-the-sea, Brighton is famous for its free spirited party attitude that has made it a Mecca for mods, gays, clubbers and hipsters through the years. And you still can't beat those fish'n'chips...

Bristol City Break

Hanging out on the Harbourside, sipping craft ales and checking out Banksy murals are all essential ingredients for a weekend's break in Bristol. Giulia Riva is our guide.

Cardiff City Break

Rugby, cheese and Lovespoons... these are just a few things the Welsh capital is famous for, although lovers of vintage fashion, vinyl records - and Dr. Who - are also in for a treat. Local journalist Nikki Vivian is our Cardiff insider.

Edinburgh City Break

Champion of Scottish culture, auld and new, Edinburgh is the must-see city of the Celts. Steven Blyth covers every cobble, from the castle to the cocktail bars.

London City Break

Guidebook author Marsha Moore shares her secrets on the English capital, from the classic attractions of Kensington and the South Bank to the hip spots and unlikely gems of the rough and ready East End.

Newcastle City Break

Voted third best nightlife in Europe (after London and Berlin), the Newcastle & Gateshead urban area makes for a wild weekend indeed... but it's not all about clubbing! There's theatre, modern art and natural beauty nearby...

York City Break

One of the UK's prettiest cities, York has attracted history buffs for centuries. These days it's also known for its great food and several quirky festivals. Sasha Arms reports.

EUROPEAN CITY GUIDES

Amsterdam City Break

It's not all hookers and hashish, as Richard Tulloch explains in this insiders guide to the Dutch capital. World class museums, picturesque canals and parks, and hip undiscovered districts are all revealed.

Athens City Break

The cradle of Western civilisation may not quite have the political and cultural clout as in its 400BC heyday, but with plenty of parks, galleries and bars - as well as classical ruins - it makes for a great city break. Local girl Mandy Andritsi tells all.

Barcelona City Break

Duncan Rhodes uncovers a shabby but sexy city with jam-packed beaches, tranquil Gothic courtyards, dusk-til-dawn nightlife and mind-boggling Modernista architecture.

Belgrade City Break

Boat parties, Tito's mausoleum and a beautiful fortress on the banks of the Danube are three of Belgrade's best attractions. Constance A. Dunn reveals many more in our guide to the Serbian capital.

Berlin City Break

The famously "Poor but sexy" German capital is exposed by Craig Robinson in this gritty guide to the city. Beach bars, street food and the unmissable attractions (like the Brandenburg Gate and of course the Wall) all feature.

Brussels City Break

A heady mix of culture and indulgence, Brussels promises to be anything but boring - whether you're a fan of comic and surreal art, or a connoisseur of fine ales and frites. Laurent Vermeersch delivers the inside picture.

Bucharest City Break

Not Romania's prettiest city by a long shot, but definitely its liveliest, there's something wild and untamed about Bucharest that keeps its fans coming back for more. Local guide writer Craig Turp offers his insider tips...

Budapest City Break

The Pearl of the Danube, Budapest is beautiful and lively in equal measure. From its renowned baths, to its 'ruin bars' there's plenty to do. Stuart Wadsworth is the man in the know.

Copenhagen City Break

All the perks of a European capital, minus the chaos and clutter, says Sabina Fratila, as she guides us through the highlights of her home town. Hang on for hippies, hipsters and Hygge .

Dublin City Break

Ex-Dubliner and Qype's expert on Ireland, Rachelle Thompson , revisits the Fair City and reveals a city of literary and hedonistic pleasures... step this way for a combination of Guinness and genius.

Eger City Break

If a Valley of Beautiful Women isn't enough for you, Eger also has its own castle, synagogue, thermal baths and astrology museum. Stuart Wadsworth reports from Hungary's wine region.

Florence City Break

For centuries Florence has been one of the world's most visited tourist destinations, and admirers still flock to Firenze en masse. Thymn Chase points out the must-sees, whilst helping you step off the well-beaten track.

Geneva City Break

Sitting glitzy and serene next to the waters of Lake Geneva, this international city is a great place to mingle with models and millionaires, and a thriving student scene means backpackers can have fun too. Helen Parkinson tells all.

Helsinki City Break

Whether you prefer hanging around the city's design district and hip bars, or fuelling up on lingonberry porridge and going ice skating, Constance A. Dunn reveals a Helsinki well worth visiting.

Istanbul City Break

Sitting on the border between Europe and Asia, forget the cliched claims, Istanbul really is the city where East meets West. Revealing the low down on hammams, mosques and the dining and party scenes is Constance A. Dunn .

Krakow City Break

Polska-phile and self-confessed Krak-addict, Duncan Rhodes , reveals the romance of a city that long ago cast a spell on him... dragons, alchemists and giant cockerels await.

Lisbon City Break

Lisbon's seven hills are one of the hippest places to be in Europe right now, whether you prefer to hang out at the gin bars, on Pink Street or at the city beaches. Lucy Bryson describes a city in flux.

Ljubljana City Break

The ultra cute capital of Slovenia offers a wonderful change of pace from big city life, with drinks by the river, libraries under the treetops and views from the castle all on offer. John Bills is our guide.

Lodz City Break

David Lynch loves the former industrial city of Lodz, the Polish Hollywood that spawned directors such as Wajda, Kieslowski and Polanski. Stuart Wilson is your guide.

Lublin City Break

Poland's Eastern gem goes largely undiscovered by travellers, which of course is much of the appeal, says Stuart Wadsworth . Maybe you'll even be able to get a seat on the Rynek.

Luxembourg City Break

An oft-forgotten European gem, this super-rich capital is built around the imposing ruins of an improbably-large fortress. Sasha Arms discovers a scenic city with a love of fast cars and bottles of bubbly.

Lviv City Break

The Lion City's 21st century roars are still falling on deaf ears... which of course is all the better for those pioneering travellers who do make the journey to Ukraine's most beguiling city. Stuart Wadsworth tells us how best to spend a weekend in Lviv.

Lyon City Break

Once described as the "world capital of gastronomy" Lyon stick packs a hefty culinary punch with classic Lyonnaise cuisine and a galaxy of Michelin stars. A wonderful old town and festivals of cinema and light complete the package.

Madrid City Break

Dusk 'til dawn nightlife, museums chockful of priceless treasures, cafe-littered squares and surely the world's best city park. Just some of the reasons Emma Weinbren loves Madrid.

Mahon City Break

Menorca's capital city was built on one of the world's biggest natural harbours and retains a strong British influence from its days under colonial rule. Order a pomada (gin and lemon) and enjoy watching the boats go by...

Milan City Break

The world's famous fashion capital is less superficial than it looks... but this time it's you who needs to scratch beneath the surface. With the help of Guardian travel writer Margherita Ragg you'll find fantastic street food, authentically Italian aperitivo bars and old school bocce clubs...

Moscow City Break

The magnificent domes of St Basil’s cathedral, the imposing Kremlin walls, and Vladimir Lenin's embalmed body... those are just the sights on Red Square. Laura Gozzi reveals these and many more of the seductive, head-spinning charms of the Russian capital.

Olomouc City Break

Admit it... you've never even heard of Olomouc! Oft (unfairly) eclipsed by Prague, Stuart Wadsworth shines a light on this Moravian marvel, which offers lots of great beers, jazz music and Czech culture, minus the tourists.

Oslo City Break

The smallest of the Scandinavian capitals is bustling, bohemian and beautiful says Ben Norum, who also advises strapping on your skis for a run out in the Nordmarka forest with the locals.

Paris City Break

Who hasn't dreamed of living in Paris? Rich history, richer cuisine and the perfect stage for both the high - and low - life. Sophie Massie packs enough tips for the perfect long weekend in the City of Light.

Poznan City Break

The first capital of Poland has a real spring in its step these days, with a rich events calendar, lively nightlife scene and even a touch of hipsterism. Catch it before the tourists descend, says Kai Warmbold.

Prague City Break

Toy town architecture, hedonistic nightlife and a constant flow of delicious beer... no wonder Prague has been a mainstay on the tourist circuit ever since the Iron Curtain cracked. Some great festivals and quirky treasures make it easier to avoid the crowds than you think, says Hannah Carr .

Rome City Break

The Eternal City still resonates with the history of ancient Empires. Susana Cristalli reveals the ruins, along with the tastiest street food, more happening nightclubs and a dash of alternative/contemporary culture.

Rotterdam City Break

Europe's largest port is famous for its zany modern architecture and its colourful summer carnival. Local blogger Ina Scharun is our guide to this cosmopolitan party town.

Seville City Break

Flamenco, fiery passions and architectural flair: discover the secrets of Spain's most Spanish city with local blogger, Mary Biles , including of course the best tapas bars in town.

Split City Break

Croatia's second largest city sits resplendent on the Dalmatian coast, growing out of the ruins of the Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace. The sparkling sea, Zinfandel wines and delicious prsut ham may prompt you to make a Split decision, says The Editor.

Stockholm City Break

Royal architecture, beautiful islands, pagan traditions, Nordic design, strong coffee, rocking nightlife... and we didn't even mention the Abba Museum yet. Local journalist Wailana Kalana is our eye on Stockholm.

Tallinn City Break

With its fairytale medieval old town and city beaches, Tallinn long ago emerged from the shadows of its Soviet history to become a hip, go-to destination. Duncan Rhodes has some choice recommendations on attractions, restaurants and happening nightspots...

Timisoara City Break

Trace the history of Romania's 1989 revolution on your way to Transylvania, and don't forget to call by the local brewery too. Constance A. Dunn has the lowdown on theatres, cafes, sightseeing and accommodation in 'Timi'.

Trieste City Break

The one time home of James Joyce, Trieste is Italy's windswept Eastern outpost, a cosmopolitan town of many European influences. Gaia Zol invites you to marvel at seaside castles and indulge on some of the world's best coffee and cakes.

Valencia City Break

Spain's third biggest city lies on the Mediterranean coast, thus adding beaches to a long list of charms that include a medieval Old Town and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Anna Baranek reveals all.

Venice City Break

Utterly unique and rarely short of breathtaking, Venice is also unquestionably a victim of mass tourism. But you don't need to go far to escape the crowds - our expert insider, Alice Mulhearn, shares her tips and secrets.

Verona City Break

The very city where Romeo and Juliet fell in love is certainly ripe with romance, especially by the Ponte Pietra at sunset, best enjoying with a vermouth or spritzer. Both Venice and Lake Garda are nearby.

Vienna City Break

Imperial grandeur, great nosh and surprisingly happening nightlife - Britta Pichler dishes out tips on how best to spend a long weekend in the Austrian capital. You'll have a ball!

Vilnius City Break

East European adventurer Thymn Chase discovers that harder to find = harder to leave in the capital of Lithuania. This unspoiled Baltic great is bursting with the energy of urban renewal and a young partying population.

Warsaw City Break

A mini Berlin? Warsaw is certainly the most dynamic of Polish cities and with parks, palaces and plenty of hipster bars to visit it may well be the best for a wild weekend. Kamila Napora is our guide.

Wroclaw City Break

Editor and Wroclaw-lover, Duncan Rhodes , runs down the best of what was once Breslau, but is now one of Poland's most charming cities. It's all gnomes, waterways and hidden student bars.

NORTH AMERICAN CITY GUIDES

Chicago City Break

The Windy City has plenty to offer travellers, from seats in Soldier and Cellular Field, to 1930s skyscrapers, trips by Lake Michigan and the famous Chicago hot dog. Pola Henderson is our guide.

Indianapolis City Break

Famous for its high speed entertainment (the Indy 500!), Indianapolis also has a burgeoning slow food scene, plus nightlife that includes everything from blues to burlesque. Ashly Myers sings the praises of "Hoosier Hospitality".

Los Angeles City Break

Superficial? Not so says Vince Robbins as he guides us through his home town with gusto, stopping off at Holly Wood Reservoir, Venice Beach and Downtown LA en route.

New York City Break

Discover the city behind the film locations with this insider's guide to The Big Apple by actress Natalie Buster. Jazz, curry and cocktail bars are all on the menu.

San Francisco City Break

Considered America's most European - and hippest - city, it's almost impossible to be bored in San Fran, where beaches, art galleries and bars compete for your attention. Bike tour guide, Daniel Watson-Weller is our local expert.

Toronto City Break

Toronto's diversity is such that you might find yourself eating French Canadian fast food before a night out at a Japanese rockabilly bar. Factor in Lake Ontario (and Niagara Falls), the CN Tower and Rogers Center Stadium and you've got plenty of reasons to visit, Rachel Lissner .

SOUTH AMERICAN CITY GUIDES

Bogota City Break

Forget the scare stories about gun-toting cocaine gangs... the only danger in Bogota is of having a damn good time. James Pengelley explores the sights of Colombia's capital and dishes the dirt on disco buses and the national sport of tejo , aka explosive darts.

Cartagena City Break

The inspirational backdrop behind Gabriella Garcia Marquez's Love in the Time of Cholera , Cartagena brims with Colonial splendour and dances to the melodies of cumbia rhythms. James Pengelley is seduced by its charms.

Havana City Break

Whether you're investigating the revolutionary spirit, or the much-loved rum spirits, Havana is an intoxicating destination that will set your head spinning. Sasha Arms enjoys the salsa and cigars much more than the Communist customer service.

Lima City Break

Peru's gritty capital comes with smog, traffic and skyscrapers... but foodies will love the mix of high end restaurants and cheap cervicherias , which account for just some of Lima's many charms, says Caitlin Purdy .

Rio de Janeiro City Break

The Samba city is a must-see destination for any urban adventurer. From taking the sun on Ipanema to sinking caipirinhas in the Bohemian Lapa district, we get under the skin of Rio and her secrets.

ASIAN CITY GUIDES

Baku City Break

This port city may not always be pretty, but it is rarely less than compelling. Azerbaijan's oil-rich capital is part Soviet rust-heap, part glittering Dubai, and part museum to a medieval Islamlic culture. Stuart Wadsworth is on the ground.

Dubai City Break

Bigger is better, explains Cameron Mehrabanpour , in his guide to the UAE's bling capital. Look hard enough and you may even find some culture, amidst the shopping and sunbathing opportunities.

Singapore City Break

Long gone are the days when visitors to Singapore were given a compulsory haircut upon arrival but, whilst it's still too organised for some travel junkies, there's a polished charm to this economic giant. And great cuisine. Richard Tulloch explores.

Tbilisi City Break

The Georgian capital may be a little off-colour as it continues to recover from its post-Soviet hangover, but with the picturesque wooden houses of its Old Town, natural spas and fantastic cuisine Stuart Wadsworth finds plenty to commend Tbilisi.

Yerevan City Break

Not most people's vote for travel destination of the year, the Armenian capital nonetheless rewards those travellers intrepid enough to step this way. Stuart Wadsworth samples the local brandy, climbs the Soviet-era 'Cascade', takes a day trip to Lake Sevan and more.

AUSTRALIAN CITY GUIDES

Melbourne City Break

Considered to offer one of the best quality of life anywhere in the world, Melbourne is a hip, fun and manageable metropolis with loads of cool things to do, including visiting night markets and sighting penguins. Sophie Nellis is our guide.

Sydney City Break

Beautiful beaches, the Blue Mountains, and beer served in manageable measures (all hail the Schooner!)... Sydney has it all! Local boy Richard Tulloch takes us on a whirlwind tour full of tips on how to make the most of Australia's largest city.

AFRICAN CITY GUIDES

Cairo City Break

The Egyptian capital is much more than the gateway to the pyramids, where Pharonic, Coptic, Islamic and colonial influences come together. Suck on a shisha and digest our guide by Joelle Petrus .

Cape Town City Break

Sasha Arms reveals the very best of Cape Town in South Africa with its spectacular scenery, troubled history and kooky treasures.

Johannesburg City Break

Known for the Apartheid Museum, the Soweto township, and the nearby Lion Park, South Africa's largest city also boasts a burgeoning scene of hip bars, cafes and clubs. Francesca Lynagh is our guide.

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Birmingham Christmas Shopper

Departures between 19/11/2021 and 10/12/2021

Get into the festive spirit with a Christmas shopping break to Birmingham. Join us for some stress-free Christmas shopping, as you sit back and relax,...

Manchester Christmas Shopper

Departures between 12/11/2021 and 10/12/2021

Get into the festive spirit – it’s time to head to Manchester. Join us for some stress-free Christmas shopping, as you sit back and relax, and tra...

Scotland’s Festive Shopping & Markets (inc Tribute Night)

Departures between 03/12/2021 and 10/12/2021

Get your winter woollies on and kick off your Christmas festivities in Scotland – enjoy the magical atmosphere at not one but two fantastic Scottish...

Departures between 26/11/2021 and 03/12/2021

• Destination/Resort Azores Bansko Bansko (€) Bardolino Borovets Borovets Borovets - Short Break Borovets (€) Caribbean Chepelare Desenzano Del Garda Dubai England Europe Garda Greece Ireland Japan Jersey Mediterranean Monza - Italy Monza - Italy (€) NI Away Games Pamporovo Pamporovo Pamporovo - Short Break Pamporovo (€) Peschiera Del Garda Poiana Brasov - Romania Poiana Brasov - Romania Riva del Garda Romania Scotland Silverstone - UK Silverstone - UK (€) Spa - Belgium Spa - Belgium (€) Sunny Beach Torbole, Riva del Garda UK UK (€) USA Wales

City Breaks

Welcome to the City Breaks service. We have shown thousands of people over nearly 20 years, a way to gain access to some of the most beautiful cities that Europe has to offer at a fraction of the retail cost. Our service enables up to 6 people to travel to nearly all of the major cities in Europe with both flights and accommodation from just £119 per person plus tax and baggage. With luxury accommodation in centrally located hotels, this offer is one of the best that we have ever promoted and has consistently created referrals and repeat business for years.

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 ....

You simply pay the activation fee for the amount of people that are travelling, then speak with one of our trained travel advisors who will navigate you through the multiple options of hotels available in the city that you desire. Our agents will work with you to supply flights that suit your needs and make sure that you have the holiday of a lifetime.

If you have purchased a city break, please call us on our free phone number so we can start working on your trip.

Alternatively, CLICK HERE to activate your break online.

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From Krakow to Madrid

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It's all included-flights, accommodation & much more

City breaks.

City breaks are perfect for quick escape and provide many options for a beautiful relaxing getaway. Our city breaks offer a fantastic, hassle-free way to discover the wonderful areas of Europe and beyond at great-value prices.

City Breaks in Europe

With a wealth of world-renowned cities just a short plane ride away, our city breaks in Europe are a great opportunity to take advantage of that proximity and explore a new destination or revisit old favourites.

From Rome to Budapest , Krakow to Istanbul and Marrakech , we offer a selection of European destinations as well as further afield. No matter what, every location provides our guests with the chance to immerse themselves in an entirely new place. Whether that be soaking up the city’s history, sampling its culinary delicacies or taking in its culture with visits to galleries or museums.

Our tour begins as soon as we arrive at our short city break destination where we’ll be whisked to the hotel by one of our English-speaking local guides. We’ll then take a half day city tour to get a feel for the location and our expert guide will be on hand to answer questions and help us decide how to spend the rest of our holiday.

If you’re looking for city breaks in Europe for 2024, make sure to travel with us to maximise your time away. Our holidays include flights, transfers, hotel accommodation and a guided city tour so we get the most out of our time wherever we go.

Choose a European City Break Destination

City Breaks from Dublin 2024

Berlin City Break

Fully Guided

Flights & Transfers

€469pp €459 pp

Czech Republic

Prague City Break

€689pp €599 pp

Rome City Break

€629pp €619 pp

Nice City Break

€519pp €499 pp

Lisbon City Break

€619pp €599 pp

Vienna City Break

Istanbul City Break

€579pp €569 pp

Porto City Break

€729pp €659 pp

Bruges City Break

Budapest City Break

Marrakech City Break

€499pp €479 pp

Madrid City Break

Ljubljana City Break

€649pp €599 pp

Riga City Break

Vilnius City Break

Why choose a travel department city break.

Get A Lay Of The Land

All cities have their own landscapes and layouts. Getting accustomed to a new one can be tricky, especially in a relatively short space of time. However, on all of our City Breaks, we offer a half-day city tour, given by an English-speaking local guide, to help us find our bearings. We’ll see the main highlights of the city and learn the history that has made it what it is today. As well as showing us some of the must-see attractions, our experienced guides will be happy to answer any questions we might have and recommend other places in the city that we might enjoy visiting.

Taste Local Flavours

One of the most exciting things about visiting a new place is the chance to try some of its particular delicacies. Sometimes you may already be familiar with the food from a particular place, such as Spanish tapas or Roman spaghetti alla carbonara but, even in the most famous culinary destinations, our expert guides will be able to point us to new tastes to explore. What about pa amb tomàquet (bread, rubbed with ripe tomatoes, salt and olive oil) in Barcelona or fiori di zucca (battered courgette flowers, stuffed with anchovies and mozzarella) in Rome?

Take In New Scenery

A City Break offers the chance to have a change of scenery for a few days. On these short holidays, for example, we’ll visit the fantastical buildings of Barcelona or the Gothic facades of Prague. Of course, there is much more to a city than its buildings. We’ll also have the opportunity to take in the beautiful natural scenery in beach-front cities like Lisbon and Valencia or stroll along winding rivers in Bruges and Budapest. In other cities, we have the opportunity to take in incredible urban parks, like those in Berlin or Krakow, which has 42 to choose from.

Explore Art & Culture

On each of our City Breaks, we’ll have the opportunity to experience the culture of a new place. A great way to get under the skin of a city is to experience its art by visiting galleries, museums or other cultural attractions. With tips from our expert local guides and plenty of free time, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the art and culture of whatever city we travel to. Imagine viewing paintings by Raphael, Caravaggio, Bosch and Brueghel in the splendid surroundings of Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum, or admiring Gaudi's artistry in his adopted city of Barcelona!

City Break Tour Highlights

• Take an optional excursion to Sintra from Lisbon.
• Visit the Vatican and admire Michelangelo's most famous masterpiece in the Sistine chapel. 
• Relax in one of the many thermal baths in Budapest.   
• Enjoy wine tasting in Porto.
• Discover the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. 
• Explore the Eastside Gallery, an open air art gallery on a section of the Berlin Wall.  

Top European City Break Attractions

Hungarian Parliament Building

Budapest is home to the third largest Parliament building in the world. Located on the bank of the River Danube, this impressive neo-Gothic building is one of the city's most iconic sights.

A trip to Rome isn’t complete without seeing Ancient Rome’s most famous site, the Colosseum. The 50,000-seat arena was used to stage spectacular gladiatorial games in front of bloodthirsty spectators. The name Colosseum refers to the Colosso di Nerone, a giant statue of Nero that stood nearby.

Belem Tower

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a symbol for the ‘Age of Exploration’ and a landmark of Lisbon. Built to protect the city from invaders, Belem Tower is a 16th century fortress located on the bank of the river Tagus.

Prague Astronomical Clock

First installed in 1410, the Prague Astronomical Clock is one of the world's oldest fully functional astronomical clocks. It's attached to the Old Town Hall in the Old Town Square, a historic quarter of Prague as it dates back to the 10th century. 

Schönbrunn Palace

The summer residence of the Habsburg family, this baroque palace is one of Vienna's most popular attractions. It has 2000-rooms-worth of splendour complete with a classically landscaped garden. 

Checkpoint Charlie

The infamous border crossing point in the wall that divided West and East Berlin has now become a shrine to the wall's memory. Between 1961 and 1990, Checkpoint Charlie was the only crossing point between East and West Berlin.

City Breaks FAQs

Where are the best city breaks in europe.

Europe has a wide range of city destinations and each one can suit various interests. For history buffs, you can step back to ancient times with a trip to Rome and explore the Roman Forum. See how royalty lived with a visit to the palaces in the opulent capital of Vienna. For food lovers, each city offers its own unique dishes, enjoy a Pastel de nata in Lisbon or experience the best tapas in Madrid. If you’re looking to take things easy, you can easily relax with a drink and watch the world go by in the Old Towns of Prague, Riga and Tallinn. It’s not just capital cities that offer a quick escape, you can also unwind in Nice or you can even go beyond Europe and discover Marrakech to get a taste of North Africa. 

What’s included on my city break?

With Travel Department, return flights, airport transfers, hand-picked hotel accommodation and a guided city tour are all included.

Do you offer short breaks in Europe?

If you’re looking to stay a little longer, we also offer some other short breaks in Europe from 4 - 6 days, such as Malta, Athens, Munich, Lake Garda, Salamanca and Gdansk.

Do you offer Christmas City Breaks?

Yes, you can experience the best Christmas markets in Europe and see the top sights of your chosen destination during a winter city break.

What if there is an emergency?

We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

Reviews, Travel Tips & Advice To Inspire Your Next City Break

Company news special interests, 5 reasons to take a city break with travel department.

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• 18 February 2022

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Formerly known as Constantinople and was once seen as the capital of the world, Istanbul is the fusion point of where East meets W...

5 reasons to fall in love with Vienna

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24 best city breaks in Europe for 2024

Will it be bar-hopping in lisbon, canalside strolls in venice or pinging between budapest’s two halves europe’s cities are perfect for a short break – these are the best.

W hen it comes to European city breaks, there’s no shortage of options. Across the continent, there are magnificent capitals — Paris, Rome, Vienna to name a few — that weave a web of history spanning more than two millennia and provide a playground for culture hunters. For those who think they might have done it all, there are charming second cities showcasing different sides of their countries, from wine-fuelled Porto to the coastal charms of Dubrovnik. Modernity is there in abundance too, if you want it, whether that’s Berlin’s club scene or the capital of Scandi cool, Copenhagen. Need more inspiration? Here are the best city break destinations in Europe.

Main photo: the Grand Canal in Venice (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

1. Cordoba, Spain

A Roman city that became a centre of Islam in the Middle Ages, Cordoba is a fascinating meeting point of cultures. See this in the majestic architecture strewn around its cobbled streets, with the Mezquita-Catedral de Cordoba a particular highlight — a Unesco world heritage site that began life as a mosque before becoming a cathedral. Equally interesting is the food scene, which borrows from the Muslim, Jewish and Spanish heritage of the people that now call this city home.

Don’t miss Home to a thriving flamenco scene, Cordoba is also the place where you can visit Centro Flamenco Fosforito, a museum charting the history of the dance with free performances Flight time Around 2¾ hours to Seville and then 50 minutes by train to Cordoba Fly from Birmingham, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester

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• Best weekend breaks from London

2. Riga, Latvia

Don’t dismiss Riga, capital of Latvia , as stag-do central — although there is an element of that — because its charming old town, with its cobbled streets, is ripe for exploring on foot, especially on a Sunday morning when many visitors are nursing their hangovers. Beyond the obviously photogenic spots there are picnic-friendly parks dotted with sculptures and water features, and handsome streets lined with architecture ranging from extravagant art nouveau to Soviet-style utilitarianism. There are some fascinating museums too, including the former KGB headquarters, the Corner House.

Don’t miss Museum of the Occupation of Latvia expanded into a new location in 2022 and offers an insight into life under Soviet rule Flight time Around 2½ hours Fly from Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Nottingham

• Best affordable city breaks in Europe

3. Basel, Switzerland

Right on the border of both France and Germany, this Swiss city is the perfect tri-nation pitstop. How many other cities have an airport in one country, museums in another and public transport to seamlessly connect them all? Summer and winter are the best seasons to visit. The Rhine cuts through the city and a favourite summer activity is to stuff your belongings in a Wickelfisch swim bag and use it as a float to gently drift down the river. Its fountains provide a place to cool off if it gets too hot. And in winter, Christmas markets make it a magical winter wonderland.

Don’t miss Crossing the river on one of the water-powered boats, which uses the current to push the vessel from one bank to another Flight time Around 1½ hours Fly from Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester

4. Valletta, Malta

Small in size but big in stature, Malta ’s elegant, golden-hued capital Valletta is one of the most compact city break destinations in Europe. Built in 1566 on a peninsula between two natural harbours, the entire place is Unesco-listed, with gilded cathedrals, fanciful pleasure gardens and grand mansion houses hugged by bastion walls. Enter through the latest incarnation of the City Gate, designed by Renzo Piano, saunter along the breezy cobbled streets and finish with a boat tour of the Grand Harbour.

Don’t miss The Saluting Battery and firing of a cannon that takes place daily at midday Flight time Around 3-4 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham

• Best hotels in Malta

5. Athens, Greece

Ancient history plays out daily in this rich theatre of ruins. Originally centred around fifth-century BC hilltop citadel the Acropolis, the Greek capital has since sprawled into an urban mass with gritty appeal. Spend a morning weaving through the Parthenon’s crumbling columns and an afternoon admiring politically charged street art in this diverse city break destination. Escape the heat on day trips to beaches along the Attica coast.

Don’t miss Exploring the marble stands of the Panathenaic Stadium. Built around AD143, centuries later it was excavated and hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896 Flight time Around 3½-4 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle

• Best hotels in Athens • Best things to do in Athens

6. Budapest, Hungary

A grande dame of Europe with designs on being the most attractive city in the world, Hungary ’s capital seduces visitors with her golden-age glamour. From sensational art nouveau façades to stately baroque architecture, the streets are filled with photogenic backdrops, many reflected in the River Danube, which separates hilly, historic Buda and vivacious Pest. You’ll find an abundance of hot springs all over Budapest , where thermal baths have been popular since Roman times. Relax beneath elegant marble archways at 16th-century Rudas, or party with the masses at Szechenyi.

Don’t miss The views from 13th-century Unesco-listed Buda Castle’s courtyards, which are free to enter and open all night Flight time Around 2½-3 hours Fly from Belfast, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best things to do in Budapest

7. Galway, Ireland

Come for excellent live music, dynamic theatre and a refreshing arts scene. Perched on the west coast in Connemara, straddling the River Corrib and part of the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a beautiful city. On cold days, visit historic pubs with cosy snugs; in milder weather, cycle along the promenade to Salthill, along a rocky coastline dotted with lighthouses. Although not an obvious choice for a break in Europe, it’s a refreshing find.

Don’t miss Enjoying the craic at pubs like Tigh Neachtain on Cross Street, famous for its beers, whiskeys and talented musicians Flight time Around 1½ hours Fly from Birmingham, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle

• Most beautiful places to visit in Ireland

8. Tbilisi, Georgia

A complex past has left its mark on Georgia ’s intriguing capital, where cobbled streets were once ruled by Prussian and Russian forces. Art nouveau buildings share the skyline with modernist Soviet structures and sixth-century Orthodox church towers, and a bohemian spirit breezes through hidden bars, restaurants and vintage-style cafés. Disused factories have been converted into boutique hotels, and the natural sulphur bathhouses (widely believed to have given the city its name, which roughly translates as “a warm place”) are still in use.

Don’t miss The wines, made here for more than 8,000 years. They’re cheap too; pay around £6 for a bottle of table wine Flight time Around 6-7 hours Fly from London Gatwick via Istanbul, London Heathrow via Istanbul

• Best tours in Georgia

9. Split, Croatia

Hugged by mountains and kissed by the sea, this up-and-coming port has blossomed into one of Croatia ’s top cities to explore. Dating back 1,700 years, the old town of Split has the most must-see sights, including the Unesco-listed Diocletian’s Palace — thought to be some of the best Roman ruins in existence. The sprawling fourth-century complex now houses many bars and restaurants, and you’ll find plenty more affordable pitstops along the Riva promenade. Visit a seventh-century cathedral still in use and climb a 57m bell tower for sweeping views of the peninsula.

Don’t miss Dipping your toes in the sand at Bacvice beach, a ten-minute walk from the old town Flight time Around 2½-3 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, Manchester

• Best hotels in Split

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Lapped by shimmering Adriatic waves, Croatia’s prettiest city is a Unesco-listed gem. Wrapped by ancient walls, the old town is an open-air museum; explore the cobbled streets admiring gothic and baroque architecture, and seek out backdrops featured in Game of Thrones . Boutique hotels built into the cliffs command breathtaking views, and sandy beaches such as Banje are a short distance away. Options for day trips from Dubrovnik are plentiful: hop over to lush, forest-covered Lokrum or car-free Kolocep.

Don’t miss Climbing Fort Lovrijenac for views of the city walls and bay Flight time Around 3 hours Fly from Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham

• Best hotels in Dubrovnik

11. Madrid, Spain

The life and soul of Spain’s finest fiestas, this high-spirited European city gets under your skin. Cultural highlights in Madrid come in the form of fine-art galleries such as the Prado and historic squares such as Plaza Mayor, although it’s easy to get sidetracked drifting between charming tapas bars that range from the delightfully boisterous to the reassuringly serene. The Mercado de San Miguel showcases a whirlwind culinary tour of the country, while higgledy-piggledy Sobrino de Botin, founded in 1725, claims it’s the oldest restaurant in the world.

Don’t miss Picasso’s Guernica , on display at the Reina Sofia museum Flight time Around 2½-3 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best hotels in Madrid

12. Barcelona, Spain

If this Spanish city were a Tinder profile, you’d certainly swipe right: striking looks and a fun-filled personality are at its core. Architectural maverick Gaudi dominates the cityscape with his surreal designs — relax in the fairytale Parc Guell and marvel at the fantastical Sagrada Familia cathedral — although you’ll find more traditional buildings in the enchanting Gothic Quarter. A number of Michelin-starred restaurants and plenty of fine tapas bars make dining out in Barcelona a dream, with food served alongside the spectacle of street performers on Las Ramblas to provide an entertaining evening out.

Don’t miss The Joan Miro Foundation, a beautiful hilltop museum exhibiting some of the artist’s finest work Flight time Around 2-2½ hours Fly from Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle

• Best things to do in Barcelona

13. Paris, France

Whether you’re strolling along the Seine or sipping chocolat chaud from a Saint-Germain café, France’s devastatingly sexy capital is still the most romantic city in the world. Breeze through bohemian Montmartre, where artists set their easels on cobbled streets, or spend a day gazing at masterpieces in the gargantuan Louvre. From vintage stores on the left bank to designer boutiques along the Champs-Élysées, shopping in Paris is world class. Admire the swirling motifs of art nouveau façades and slip into a world where everything feels effortlessly chic.

Don’t miss Royal chapel Sainte-Chapelle for a fix of gothic glory Flight time Around 1½ hours Fly from Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle By train Eurostar from London St Pancras International takes 2hr 16min

• Best hotels in Paris • Eurostar guide: everything you need to know before you travel

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

Framed by snow-glazed mountains and lurid green lava fields, Iceland ’s capital is an excellent base for day trips and a standalone city break destination. Whale-watching tours depart from the harbour and northern lights safaris operate in the winter season. But it’s the quirky bars, pubs and restaurants of Reykjavik that give a flavour of this tiny population’s offbeat way of life. The glass-domed Perlan museum provides an overview of Iceland’s geology and wildlife; walk 15 minutes from here to find the Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach.

Don’t miss Steaming in hot springs — stop at the Blue Lagoon en route from Keflavik airport Flight time Around 2½-3 hours Fly from Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best things to do in Reykjavik

15. Lisbon, Portugal

Once a jumping-off point for 15th-century explorers, this underrated European city is now the big discovery. An explosion of fashionable bars and restaurants in Lisbon has invigorated downtown neighbourhoods Bairro Alto and Principe Real, transforming the streets into an open-air party, but there’s still something seductive about the city’s dusty, clandestine art nouveau venues. While medieval Sao Jorge Castle presides over the azulejo-tiled Portuguese capital from one of its seven hills, you’ll find Unesco-listed treasures further out in Belem.

Don’t miss Trundling across town on the old-fashioned 28 tram and exploring the cobbled streets of Alfama, the city’s oldest neighbourhood Flight time Around 2½-3 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best hotels in Lisbon

16. Florence, Italy

The birthplace of the Renaissance still bears artistic fruits. While works by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci are on display in world-class galleries and museums in Florence , dynamic, modern art collectives operate in various pockets around the Arno river. Climb one of the Tuscan city’s surrounding hills for views of Brunelleschi’s knockout terracotta-tiled Duomo — or worship it from a rooftop bar at one of several boutique hotels. Soak up the sights and smells of open-air food market Sant’Ambrogio, then venture into the countryside on day trips to sample produce at its source.

Don’t miss Getting lost in the epic collection of masterpieces on display at the Uffizi Gallery Flight time Around 2-3 hours Fly from Edinburgh, London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow

• Best things to do in Florence

17. Venice, Italy

Byzantine gold mosaics, baroque architecture and opulent palaces vie for attention in Venice , and every church interior, ornate doorway and elaborate façade is a work of art. Connected by nearly 400 bridges, the entirety of this beautiful city is Unesco-listed. Stumble down narrow passageways to find hidden bars and restaurants, or salute triumphant palazzos on a cruise along the Grand Canal.

Don’t miss Island-hopping between lace-loving Burano, glass-blowing Murano and sleepy, historic Torcello in the Venetian Lagoon Flight time Around 2½ hours Fly from Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Nottingham

• Best hotels in Venice

18. Porto, Portugal

Porto serves up great food, sights and sass. It’s home to vintage port houses, such as Taylor’s, which has manicured rose gardens, a terrace restaurant with a view and peacocks strutting in the grounds, as well as its much-loved ten-year-old tawny. This ravishing city is all about the views, but it’s a schlep to catch every angle because of the river crossings involved. So see it all from the river, with Porto’s tumbling tropical gardens, tiled monasteries and space-age bridges revealing themselves on an easy-breezy hour’s sail on a traditional rabelo boat.

Don’t miss Working up an appetite while feeding your Insta-fans at the Victor Hugo food market, where the stalls are stacked with gourmet displays of langoustines, oysters, meats and cheeses, as well as cakes, flowers and wine Flight time Around 2-3 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best things to do in Porto

19. Prague, Czech Republic

History sings from the cobblestoned streets of Prague , but amid the spires and domes you’ll find a modern, cosmopolitan city, with industrial areas transformed into arty hubs and a hip avant-garde restaurant scene. Step inside St Vitus Cathedral to admire its stained glass, then take a tour of the quirky Lobkowicz Palace with its dazzling balcony views.

Don’t miss Prague Castle. For the maximum wow factor, enter through the courtyard of Queen Anne’s Summer Palace Flight time Around 2 hours Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best hotels in Prague

20. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is hands down the most underrated city break in Europe: just two hours by train from London, full of delightfully absurd architecture, plus bars overflowing with interesting beers and the world’s best chocolate. It’s packed with top-notch museums but, let’s be honest, you didn’t come for them. The writer Jean Cocteau called Brussels’ main square the “finest theatre in the world” and, although it’s full of camera-toting tourists, its gold-leafed gables and gothic spires make this one of Europe’s most gobsmacking public spaces. Duck down the Rue de l’Etuve for Brussels’s other laid-back landmark, the Manneken Pis statue of a chubby little boy having an unabashed wee.

Don’t miss Watching the winding streets of the medieval city centre unfurl below you from the top-floor café of the Musical Instruments Museum, a bizarre art nouveau building covered in jet-black wrought iron, on the stately Mont des Arts Flight time Around 1-1¾ hours Fly from Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, London Heathrow, Manchester By train Eurostar from London St Pancras International takes 1hr 53min

• Best no-fly city breaks

21. Amsterdam, Netherlands

With direct Eurostar trains whisking you there in less than four hours from London, and super-short flights from elsewhere in the UK, few destinations offer as easy a getaway as the Dutch capital. Amsterdam wears its history lightly, with pretty canal streets dusted with sublime art and architecture, and cosy pubs making it a great city for walking. There are some obvious standouts: the graceful Herengracht has some of the city’s most lavish buildings, particularly along the stretch between Leidsestraat and Vijzelstraat, while Prinsengracht has some of the cutest gables overlooking it (don’t be afraid to look inside either — window-dressing is a statement here).

Don’t miss The Rijksmuseum. From Vermeer to Van Gogh, the Rijksmuseum has a collection spanning 800 years of Dutch art. Rembrandt’s brooding The Night Watch is its most famous piece, but don’t miss Van Dyck’s high-society portraits or Vermeer’s tender The Milkmaid (who could be the sister of his Girl with a Pearl Earring ). And it’s not just the art that’s impressive — the stunning neo-gothic building is now shining after a decade of renovations Flight time Around 1-1½ hours Fly from Aberdeen, Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Durham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Humberside, Inverness, Leeds, Liverpool, London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, Southampton By train Eurostar from London St Pancras International takes 3hr 52min

• Best boutique hotels in Amsterdam

22. Vienna, Austria

Can any centre rival Austria ’s capital for architectural grandeur? Doubtful: with its majestic castles, imperial palaces and baroque streets, Vienna is endlessly elegant. The City of Music also packs a cultural punch. Waltzing probably began here, while the Vienna Philharmonic and Vienna State Opera both stage world-class performances. With neighbourhoods arranged in rings, explore outwards from fairytale St Stephen’s Cathedral: first the cobbled old town, then the restaurant and beach bar-lined old Jewish quarter, Leopoldstadt.

Don’t miss Some chocolatey Sachertorte in one of Vienna’s magnificent, marble-lined coffee houses Flight time Around 2-3 hours Fly from Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester

• Best hotels in Vienna

23. Berlin, Germany

An exceptional creative scene is the chief draw here. From hedonistic, 24-hour nightclubs with brain-bending installations to continent-leading street art, Berlin has heaps to inspect — and often in the least likely locations. Great graffiti even lines most surviving Berlin Wall remnants. Other engrossing sights evidencing the city’s traumatic past include Hitler’s bunker, Checkpoint Charlie and the Norman Foster-designed Reichstag dome. Power your sightseeing with currywurst, and try also to incorporate some greenery: a 22,000-acre botanical garden accompanies hundreds of parks here.

Don’t miss Walking — or sailing up the Spree — through hip Kreuzberg, the district most emblematic of Berlin’s rebirth Flight time Around 2 hours Fly from Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Nottingham

• Best things to do in Berlin

24. Copenhagen, Denmark

In this easygoing design hub, furniture (Hay), ceramics (Stilleben) and fashion (Holly Golightly) brands’ sharp stores prove as enticing as chocolate-box waterfront houses. Set on two islands, Copenhagen also does food famously well. Noma is here for the time being — it is set to close in 2024 — while chefs who graduated from Rene Redzepi’s pioneering restaurant now offer Nordic fine-dining, tacos or seafood close to bright, svelte coffee dens. More classic sights include the Little Mermaid and Tivoli’s retro, family-friendly amusement park. With winters so long here, summer is a joyous, buoyant time to visit.

Don’t miss In leafy Assistens Cemetery, sunbathing couples and red squirrels neighbour the graves of Hans Christian Andersen and Soren Kierkegaard Flight time Around 1½-2 hours Fly from Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester, Newquay

• Best hotels in Copenhagen

• Best twin-city breaks • Best European cities to visit this winter

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City breaks.

City breaks are perfect for quick escape and provide many options for a beautiful relaxing getaway. Our city breaks offer a fantastic, hassle-free way to discover the wonderful areas of Europe and beyond at great-value prices.

Best City Breaks

With a wealth of world-renowned cities just a short plane ride away, our Europe city breaks are a great opportunity to take advantage of that proximity and explore a new destination or revisit old favourites.

From Berlin to Istanbul, we offer the best European city breaks as well as further afield. No matter what, every location provides our guests with the chance to immerse themselves in an entirely new place. Whether that be soaking up the city’s history, sampling its culinary delicacies or taking in its culture with visits to galleries or museums, we provide the best city breaks.

Our tour begins as soon as we arrive at our short city break destination where we’ll be whisked to the hotel by one of our English-speaking local guides. We’ll then take a half day city tour to get a feel for the location and our expert guide will be on hand to answer questions and help us decide how to spend the rest of our holiday.

If you’re looking for long weekends away in Europe, make sure to travel with us to maximise your time away. Our European city breaks, as well as our other city break holidays, include flights, transfers, hotel accommodation and a guided city tour so we get the most out of our time wherever we go.

Choose a European City Break Destination

Book a City Break in Europe

£539pp £529 pp

Berlin City Break

Fully Guided

Flights & Transfers

£419pp £399 pp

Czech Republic

Prague City Break

£599pp £529 pp

Rome City Break

£559pp £549 pp

Nice City Break

£459pp £439 pp

Lisbon City Break

£549pp £529 pp

Vienna City Break

£969pp £959 pp

Istanbul City Break

£509pp £499 pp

Porto City Break

£639pp £579 pp

Bruges City Break

Budapest City Break

£1,079 pp

Marrakech City Break

£439pp £429 pp

Madrid City Break

£799 pp

Ljubljana City Break

£569pp £519 pp

Riga City Break

Best reasons to choose a city break.

Get A Lay Of The Land

All cities have their own landscapes and layouts. Getting accustomed to a new one can be tricky, especially in a relatively short space of time. However, on all of our City Breaks, we offer a half-day city tour, given by an English-speaking local guide, to help us find our bearings. We’ll see the main highlights of the city and learn the history that has made it what it is today. As well as showing us some of the must-see attractions, our experienced guides will be happy to answer any questions we might have and recommend other places in the city that we might enjoy visiting.

Taste Local Flavours

One of the most exciting things about visiting a new place is the chance to try some of its particular delicacies. Sometimes you may already be familiar with the food from a particular place, such as Spanish tapas or Roman spaghetti alla carbonara but, even in the most famous culinary destinations, our expert guides will be able to point us to new tastes to explore. What about pa amb tomàquet (bread, rubbed with ripe tomatoes, salt and olive oil) in Barcelona or fiori di zucca (battered courgette flowers, stuffed with anchovies and mozzarella) in Rome?

Take In New Scenery

A City Break offers the chance to have a change of scenery for a few days. On these short holidays, for example, we’ll visit the fantastical buildings of Barcelona or the Gothic facades of Prague. Of course, there is much more to a city than its buildings. We’ll also have the opportunity to take in the beautiful natural scenery in beach-front cities like Lisbon and Valencia or stroll along winding rivers in Bruges and Budapest. In other cities, we have the opportunity to take in incredible urban parks, like those in Berlin or Krakow, which has 42 to choose from.

Explore Art & Culture

On each of our City Breaks, we’ll have the opportunity to experience the culture of a new place. A great way to get under the skin of a city is to experience its art by visiting galleries, museums or other cultural attractions. With tips from our expert local guides and plenty of free time, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the art and culture of whatever city we travel to. Imagine viewing paintings by Raphael, Caravaggio, Bosch and Brueghel in the splendid surroundings of Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum, or admiring Gaudi's artistry in his adopted city of Barcelona!

City Break Tour Highlights

• Take an optional excursion to Sintra from Lisbon.
• Visit the Vatican and admire Michelangelo's most famous masterpiece in the Sistine chapel. 
• Relax in one of the many thermal baths in Budapest.   
• Enjoy wine tasting in Porto.
• Discover the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. 
• Explore the Eastside Gallery, an open air art gallery on a section of the Berlin Wall.  

Top European City Break Attractions

Hungarian Parliament Building

Budapest is home to the third largest Parliament building in the world. Located on the bank of the River Danube, this impressive neo-Gothic building is one of the city's most iconic sights.

A trip to Rome isn’t complete without seeing Ancient Rome’s most famous site, the Colosseum. The 50,000-seat arena was used to stage spectacular gladiatorial games in front of bloodthirsty spectators. The name Colosseum refers to the Colosso di Nerone, a giant statue of Nero that stood nearby.

Belem Tower

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a symbol for the ‘Age of Exploration’ and a landmark of Lisbon. Built to protect the city from invaders, Belem Tower is a 16th century fortress located on the bank of the river Tagus.

Prague Astronomical Clock

First installed in 1410, the Prague Astronomical Clock is one of the world's oldest fully functional astronomical clocks. It's attached to the Old Town Hall in the Old Town Square, a historic quarter of Prague as it dates back to the 10th century. 

Schönbrunn Palace

The summer residence of the Habsburg family, this baroque palace is one of Vienna's most popular attractions. It has 2000-rooms-worth of splendour complete with a classically landscaped garden. 

Checkpoint Charlie

The infamous border crossing point in the wall that divided West and East Berlin has now become a shrine to the wall's memory. Between 1961 and 1990, Checkpoint Charlie was the only crossing point between East and West Berlin.

City Break Holidays FAQs

Where are the best city breaks in europe.

Europe has a wide range of city destinations and each one can suit various interests. For history buffs, you can step back to ancient times with a trip to Rome and explore the Roman Forum. See how royalty lived with a visit to the palaces in the opulent capital of Vienna. For food lovers, each city offers its own unique dishes, enjoy a Pastel de nata in Lisbon or experience the best tapas in Madrid. If you’re looking to take things easy, you can easily relax with a drink and watch the world go by in the Old Towns of Prague, Riga and Tallinn. It’s not just capital cities that offer a quick escape, you can also unwind in Nice or you can even go beyond Europe and discover Marrakech to get a taste of North Africa. 

What’s included on my city break?

With Travel Department, return flights, airport transfers, hand-picked hotel accommodation and a guided city tour are all included.

Do you offer short breaks in Europe?

If you’re looking to stay a little longer, we also offer some other short breaks in Europe from 4 - 6 days, such as Malta, Athens, Munich, Lake Garda, Salamanca and Gdansk.

Do you offer Christmas City Breaks?

Yes, you can experience the best Christmas markets in Europe and see the top sights of your chosen destination during a winter city break.

What if there is an emergency?

We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

Reviews, Travel Tips & Advice To Inspire Your Next City Break

Special interests, 5 reasons to take a city break with travel department.

• Georgina Willcox
• 18 February 2022

Inspiration by Country

Top 8 highlights of istanbul.

Formerly known as Constantinople and was once seen as the capital of the world, Istanbul is the fusion point of where East meets W...

5 reasons to fall in love with Vienna

The capital of Austria, Vienna has majestic monuments and palaces, elegant avenues, splendid museums and much more…

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Romania Ski (£) – 4* Ana Hotel Sport

Departures between 04/02/2025 and 23/02/2025

Ski in Romania’s most popular ski resort in 2025! Fly direct from Dublin and hit the slopes for from 4 nights to 7 nights! Located in the Carpa...

4/5/7 Nights

Romania Ski (€) – 4* Ana Hotel Sport

3* Rhodopi Home Hotel – Chepelare

Departures on 28/12/2024

The Rhodopi Home is not just a place to crash – it’s a whole vibe! With a restaurant, lobby bar, and even a happening nightclub, guests are in...

Big Ski Week! – 4* Murgavets Grand Hotel

Departures on 25/01/2025

The Big Ski Week is BACK for 2025! Hosted by the dynamic duo of Declan and Michael Wilson. Our home base? The sunniest ski resort in Europe: Pampor...

Big Ski Week! – 3* Snezhanka Apartments

Big Ski Week! – 3* Snezhanka Hotel

Big Ski Week! – 4* Perelik Hotel

Big Ski Week! – 4* Orlovetz Hotel

4* Grand Hotel – Zell Am See

Departures on 11/01/2025

This luxurious hotel at the picturesque Lake Zell is situated in a unique location on a private peninsula for the ultimate alpine cosy holiday. Take a...

4* MPM Guinness – Bansko

Departures between 28/12/2024 and 15/03/2025

Located less than 350 yards from the Gondola ski lift, MPM Hotel Guinness features an on-site spa centre with steam bath, and sauna, a restaurant with...

3* Hotel Lebzelter – Zell Am See

This accommodation is located in the heart of Zell Am See and just a 3-minute walk from the stunning Lake Zell. Decorated in traditional alpine-style,...

3* Bechlwirt – Kirchberg

Departures between 21/12/2024 and 15/03/2025

The hotel sits in the centre of the resort and owns one of the best restuarants in town. The village is located at the heart of the Brixental valley a...

4* Hotel Grüner Baum – Zell Am See

Departures between 11/01/2025 and 01/03/2025

Hotel Gruner Baum (which means ‘green tree’ in German), is located directly in the centre of Zell Am See, with the beautiful lake being only a few...

4* Iglika Palace – Borovets

Departures between 22/12/2024 and 08/03/2025

The 4* Iglika Palace Hotel is located in the centre of the resort of Borovets, 100 meters from the gondola, next to all the restaurants and attraction...

3* Snezhanka Apartments – Pamporovo

Departures between 22/12/2024 and 16/03/2025

The Snezhanka Apartments are located in the centre of the resort, offering guests a comfortable base for their self-catering ski holiday. Part of the ...

4* Hotel Lion – Borovets

Hotel Lion, Borovets is a charming accommodation nestled in the heart of the picturesque Borovets ski resort in Bulgaria and offers a hotel shuttle bu...

4* Hotel Lion – Bansko

Departures between 28/12/2024 and 08/03/2025

4* Hotel Lion offers fully-equipped, nicely decorated rooms, an elegant restaurant and bar as well as spa and wellness centre. The restaurant serves t...

3* Hotel Samokov – Borovets

Departures between 04/01/2025 and 08/03/2025

Officially a 4* hotel but sold by Travel Solutions as a 3* grade, the impressive hotel sits overlooking the resort. Bedrooms offer resort view or moun...

4* Hotel Perelik – Pamporovo

Stay in the beautiful 4*Perelik Hotel located in the centre of the resort.  Offering a choice of rooms, with some suites available for families this ...

4* Rila Hotel – Borovets

The 4* Rila Hotel Borovets is located in the heart of the first mountain resort in the Balkans, Borovets. The hotel is set at the end of the ski slope...

4* Murgavets Grand Hotel – Pamporovo

Located in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains, in the centre of the Pamporovo Ski Resort, the Murgavets Grand Hotel is just 550 yards from the near...

3* Snezhanka Hotel – Pamporovo

The Snezhanka Hotel is a popular 3* hotel located in the centre of the resort, offering guests a comfortable base for their ski holiday. The hotel off...

4* Hotel Orlovetz – Pamporovo

Hotel Orlovetz is 4* hotel located in the centre of the resort and the sister hotel to the Perelik Hotel. Refurbished in 2018, the hotel offers beauti...

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Top city break offers

Why City Breaks?

Our exciting city breaks are the best way to see somewhere new and immerse yourself in another culture. With a number of city destinations that are easily reachable within a few hours flight time, we offer breaks in picture-perfect cities including holidays to Rome , Amsterdam, Prague and Barcelona, as well as further afield options like holidays to New York.

Jetting off for a city break gives you the chance to enjoy an exciting, culture-rich trip across a wide range of must-see destinations. From strolling along the beautiful boulevards in Paris to immersing yourself in Krakow’ s rich history, there’s no better way to see the world than with a Hays Travel city break.

Browse our selection of city getaways today for an unforgettable escape from the UK's Best High Street Travel Agent. Speak to our dedicated team today to book and enjoy direct flights and incredible low prices. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best european city breaks.

Europe’s cities are second to none. These are some of our favourite city breaks in Europe: 

Copenhagen: Quirky & eclectic, the Danish capital offers a great taste of Scandinavia.

Paris: Romance is everywhere in Paris: the perfect city to take your partner. And with just an hour and a half’s flight time, France holidays are a breeze. 

Dubrovnik: This exciting Croatian city promises a capital short break with historic architecture and endless culture.

Reykjavik: Comprised of daringly modern architecture and surrounded by icy mountains, Reykjavik is not like most European city breaks.

Where are the best city breaks for winter?

Looking for a winter escape for your short break? Europe offers countless city destinations that are spectacular in the winter.

Brussels: Belgium’s capital becomes a winter wonderland through the colder months, with a famed Christmas market. Berlin: Incredibly cool and offering landmarks from throughout history, Berlin is an ideal city break in any season. But with its enchanting Christmas light display and markets, it’s a must-see in winter. Krakow: There’s nothing quite as perfect as winter in Krakow’s old town as the picturesque architecture peeps out from under a blanket of white. Amsterdam : There are around 75 museums in Amsterdam, with something to entertain every interest possible. Escape the cold in this charming Dutch city.

Where are the best city breaks for summer?

The best summer city breaks are those that have all the bustle and culture of a metropolis, with a beautiful coastline to soak up the sun. Here’s our top picks: 

Barcelona: From the Gothic quarter to designer shopping, and cocktail bars to beachfront promenades, Barcelona is the city with it all. Ibiza : With unbeatable nightlife as well as a gorgeous old town, Ibiza has everything you need for a summer city break. Lisbon: Spend your time on your Lisbon city break exploring it’s meandering cobbled streets and try your hand at surfing. Palma: This stunning Spanish city is nestled between turquoise waters and verdant mountains. Need we say more?

Where are the best weekend city breaks?

If you’re jetting off for a weekend away, you want the shortest flight so you can enjoy as much time in your destination as possible. Our favourite short-haul destinations are: 

Stockholm: With direct flights from the UK that take under 3 hours, this colourful city is ideal for a weekend break. Venice: Quintessentially Italian, Venice is an amazing weekend break. Plus, you can take a gondola ride down the canals that is longer than the flight to get you here. Prague: Go east on a city break to the Czech Republic. Prague’s historic city centre and everything within it will make you swoon. Dublin: With a 1 hour flight time, the aeroplane wheels will have barely left the UK before you land in this enchanting, musical city.

What are the best budget city breaks?

There are many fabulous European cities where the cost of living is a lot lower than we’re used to here in the UK - so you don’t have to take a huge spending pot! Here are our favourite cheap city breaks:

Athens: With high temperatures, a fascinating history and mouthwatering food, it’s hard to believe that the Greek capital has such low costs. 

Krakow: Krakow is a fantastic cheap city break famed for its affordable bars and cafes that are full of character. Plus its market square is great for bagging bargains! 

Budapest: Not only are things surprisingly cheap on a Budapest holiday , but it’s sensational array of sights mean you don’t need to spend to have fun. Simply stroll and take in the views!

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Newberry baseball travel team asks city commissioners to reconsider eviction for their facility

NEWBERRY, Fla. (WCJB) - Parents and children filled the Newberry City Hall asking the Newberry City Commission to reconsider evicting the ‘Elite Pro-ball Academy’.

In 2012, Cedrick Bowers began coaching the baseball travel team in Newberry. The organization has more than 200 players of all ages. Years later, Bowers was notified by the city attorney, that the building was behind on property taxes.

“It’s a lot of things that are going back with that, my former partner, that comes into this, this situation,” stated Bowers.

Bowers said the organization paid off $15,000 this year, having a clean slate, but then they received unfortunate news.

“Mr.Bowers got a letter from the city of Newberry saying that they wanted him to, they wanted to terminate their 20-year agreement and wanted him to leave the facility,” shared parent Christopher Luetgert.

Despite paying their dues, Luetgert, a parent who assisted Bowers through litigation, said the city wants to break the contract.

“The city manager assured me that nobody was getting evicted over back taxes and to give him two weeks to work it out,” shared Luetgert.

Newberry City officials say the information shared by Bowers and the parents who attended Monday night’s city commission meeting is not true, and that the facts that will be presented to a judge in the case will be vastly different.

Officials say they are not able to give other details at this because of pending litigation in the case.

Many parents say a new development near the facility may be the reason behind the eviction.

“In my opinion, they really just want to use that facility for other purposes and they don’t want to live up to their 20-year commitment,” stated Leutgert.

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Bowers says over the weekend, the city attorney sent a letter, offering $50,000 for Elite Pro-ball Academy to vacate the building. However, Bowers refuses and says he is ready to fight for his team.

“I’m at a point that I’m willing to fight for the kids. I’m willing to fight for my ground, for everything that I worked hard for to get all these kids to believe in me,” stated Bowers.

He and several parents hope the city reconsiders their decision. At this meeting, no action was taken.

Editor’s note: This story was updated to include the commentary made by Newberry officials on the matter.

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