The Best of European City Breaks
Europe as a continent is extremely diverse. The people and cultures, the landscapes, cuisine and cities are all so very different depending on where you go that you could easily spend a lifetime exploring all that the continent has to offer. In the furthest northern reaches, Europe touches the Arctic Circle, and southern European countries are much closer to the Middle East and North Africa geographically and often culturally. As you can imagine, there are thousands of incredible city breaks to choose from across the European continent and you are sure to find some firm favourites once you make a start on crossing places off your travel bucket list.
City breaks are not a new thing and they are extremely popular among people looking for something other than your typical beach holiday. They are a fantastic excuse to explore somewhere new and exciting, and can give you a more authentic cultural experience than can be found by sitting on the beach or by the pool at your resort all day. City breaks almost force us to engage with the people and the place in equal measure and if you have your sights set on a European destination then you’ll have plenty to choose from.
Amsterdam
Capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famous for its cafe culture and coffee shops where you can sample local products. Aside from this, Amsterdam is also home to some excellent attractions that are completely family friendly. The streets are distinctly Dutch with old architecture that is completely unique to the city and complements the canals and cobbled streets. This blend of old and new makes Amsterdam a fascinating place to visit, and there is no shortage of museums, art galleries, theatres and restaurants to experience. There is also a very popular zoo and a botanical garden that is perfect for relaxing on a warm day.
Venice
Venice in the north of Italy is well known for its canals, cuisine and culture. It is home to some of the most beautiful and ancient architecture, all of which has extraordinary historical significance. Everywhere you look in Venice you can see telltale signs of its rich past. Treat yourself to coffee and a traditional Italian dessert in one of the city’s impressive squares or plazas, catch a musical performance, visit one of the many museums or galleries, or take a ride along the scenic canals in a traditional gondola. If you drive and use the parking at Liverpool Airport you can reach Venice in less than four hours.
Paris
France’s capital city tops off lists of the most romantic destinations in the world, and for good reason. The city has been the setting of many romantic films and books such as Amelie and The Paris Secret, and there is something captivating and arresting about the very idea of this well loved city. There are so many world famous landmarks, both cultural and historical, that you could easily spend weeks exploring the streets of Paris and still not get to see and do everything. Lovers of fine food, excellent wine, and rich cultural experiences will have the time of their lives in Paris.
Reykjavik
Not every city break is made equal, and if you head to Reykjavik you will understand why. The capital of Iceland is unlike any other city in Europe, and visiting in the spring or the summer will give you a completely different experience than visiting in the dead of winter. As Iceland is so far north, the winter season does come with its extremes. It is dark for up to 20 hours of each day in the depths of winter, and in the summer it can stay light for as many as 22 hours per day.
Summer visits are perfect for making the most of the warmer weather, and winter visits are magical in their own right because the Northern Lights are a common feature overhead. Reykjavik, despite its small population and its extremes of light and temperature, is one of the most exciting and desirable city breaks in the world, let alone in Europe and there is truly something for everyone and you will surely find plenty of reasons for a return visit in the future.