I often expect my best travel memories to be the most exciting or outlandish ones – gazing at majestic mountains, riding through canyons, or chasing crashing waterfalls. More often than not though, the travel memories that stick with me are the ones born inside city walls. The ones of laughing with friends as we almost miss our train, the ones of strolling in the sunshine and stealing kisses down hidden side streets.
There’s a lot to be said for city travel. It packs a punch in a short space of time, often displaying the best food, culture, and history a country has to offer. And in Europe we’re spoilt for choice with reams of unique cities ripe for exploration. Here are just some of the cities that I think make excellent choices when it comes to a short but sweet break.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has it all – beautiful architecture, delicious food, and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for both a city and beach escape, where you can hit the shops and sites in the morning, and lay back on the sand in the afternoon. Enjoy tapas, watch a football match, and discover Gaudí’s modernist masterpieces.
When to visit: May – September
2. Venice, Italy
Venice, perhaps one of the most unique cities in the world, is the first of a number of Italian spots on this list. Also known as the Floating City, Venice is comprised of 118 islands, all of which are connected by canals and bridges. There are no roads accessible by car. Instead you explore the city using it’s waterways. Make sure to take a classic gondola ride during your trip!
When to visit: March – June
3. Florence, Italy
Florence is full of art, history, and architecture. It’s a little more slow-paced than some other Italian cities, meaning plenty of time to wander around and really take in the sites. The looming Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a must-see, with it’s beautiful gothic architecture, as is the marble-clad Baptistery of St. John.
When to visit: May – September
4. Rome, Italy
Millions of people flock to Rome each year, and for good reason. The city is bursting with life and culture of every kind. A tapestry of grand architecture, historical sites, and delicious food, this is the city that’ll keep you entertained for endless hours. Gorge on gelato as you wander one of the most charming and romantic cities in the world.
When to visit: February – May
5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam is the sort of city that surprises you. It doesn’t get the same publicity as Paris or Rome, but boy is it lovely. If you’re anything like me, after a few hours of cycling its streets, you’ll be ready to call it home. More understated than it’s counterparts, the city is filled with thin brownstone houses, a sea of bikes, and quaint bridges. There’s plenty to do – from visiting Anne Frank’s house to exploring the many museums to enjoying the sun in Vondelpark. It’s a truly magic city that definitely deserves more love.
When to Visit: April-July
6. Paris, France
Paris is one of those cities you have to visit in your lifetime. With only one skyscraper within the city limits, it’s managed to retain it’s quaint, historic feel, making it one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Every corner you turn reveals a photo-opportunity, and even the most mundane of shops and restaurants acquire a certain charm. As Audrey Hepburn famously said, ‘Paris is always a good idea’.
When to visit: April – October
7. London, England
Perhaps I’m a little biased, but after living in London for 4 years, I’ve come to the conclusion that its one of the best cities in the world. The list of things to do and see here is seemingly inexhaustable. Beautiful restaurants, hidden mews, sprawling parks, and palatial museums – it truly has it all!
When to visit: May – August, December
8. Edinburgh, Scotland
If you’re new here, you might not already know that Edinburgh is one of my very favourite cities. It has a certain magic about it that can’t be found elsewhere, which is probably why so many writers and artists have flocked there over the years. Whilst is might not be the sunniest destination on this list, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to culture and charm.
When to visit: May – September, December (Christmas in Edinburgh is incredible!)
9. Madrid, Spain
Famously known for its great shopping and even better tapas, Madrid is the perfect place for a classic city break. The weather is fairly dry all year round and its extremely walkable. Just like most Spanish cities, the architecture is also stunning.
When to visit: March – June
10. Seville, Spain
Seville is often skipped in favour of Barcelona, and those that plump for the latter are seriously missing out. It’s an extremely beautiful city. The former Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, filled with its colourful orange houses, and the grand Plaza de España, boasting mosaic bridges and majestic archways, will have you whipping your camera out at every opportunity. If you’re looking for sunshine, this might also be the place for you, as Seville is the warmest city in continental Europe.
When to visit: March – June
11. Lisbon, Portugal
With 290 days of sunshine a year, Portugal’s capital city offers endless culture and warm weather. Catch a tan whilst wandering beautiful streets & marvelling at the views, or visit a beach just 30 minutes drive away from the city. And don’t forget to check out the amazing food scene whilst you’re there!
When to visit: April – July
12. Budapest, Hungary
Another extremely walkable city, Budapest offers an incredible amount of stunning architecture, historic sites, and delicious food. I was happily surprised with how cheap the city was, compared others on this list, when I visited and it remains one of my favourite places in Europe. Budapest also has a great bar scene, making it the perfect place to explore some nightlife abroad!
When to visit: March – June
13. Prague, Czech Republic
The old city of Prague promises plenty of history. It’s home to world’s largest castle complex (at 70,000 square metres), as well as the world’s oldest astronomical clock. Prague is lovely to visit during the warmer months but also really comes alive at Christmas-time, where you can explore the markets whilst enjoying a traditional chimney cake.
When to visit: May – September, December
14. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges seems much more like a town than a city but its quaint street, gingerbread buildings and peaceful canals make it worth the visit. It’s definitely a slower pace than other major European cities but that’s part of its charm. If you’re looking for a fairytale town, then look no further than Bruges.
When to visit: May – August
15. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm offers the perfect marriage of history and modernity. Filled with 17th century Baroque architecture, besides contemporary, nordic structures, the city is a true feast for the eyes. Spend your time exploring the different neighbourhoods and their own unique stories.
When to visit: May – September
16. St. Petersburg, Russia
If you’re a fan of gilded palaces and opulent theatres, St. Petersburg is the city for you. Founded by Peter the Great, the city is fondly known as Russia’s cultural capital and offers some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe. Delve into this history of this fascinating country during the white nights of late May to early June, when night never falls on the city.
When to visit: May – July
17. Istanbul, Turkey
The iconic Blue Mosque on its own makes Istanbul worth a visit, but the city has plenty more to offer. Explore the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar or wander through Ottoman Palaces. The city also has some of the best traditional Turkish food, from simit to imam bayildi – make sure to sample the country’s best eats before you leave.
When to visit: April – June
