Looking for a short break or a relaxing weekend away?

• Paris– Perfect for a romantic weekend or a visit to some of Europes most famous landmarks.
• Rome– ‘When in Rome’ a weekend break of indulgence, excellent food and superb coffee.
• Barcelona– Experience irresistible art influenced culture and relax on a golden sandy beach
• Amsterdam– To be experienced not seen, perfect for a relaxing (or lively) weekend away.
• Seville– In need of winter sun and clear blue skies? Top up your tan in Europe’s hottest city.
• Venice– The definition of a romantic city break and unique from any other European city.
• Madrid– Perfect for a short break, this energetic city has lots on offer to enjoy the simple luxuries of life.
   

Paris

A city you can visit again and again, perfect for a romantic city break or a sightseeing weekend. Its instantly recognisable monuments attract frequent visitors who can also enjoy the cities architectural beauty and romantic atmosphere. Start the day in a traditional French patisserie before hitting the designer shops and boutiques. For a picture perfect moment visit the Eiffel tower for stunning views over the city.
Don’t Miss: If it’s your first time in Paris the famous attractions Arc de Triumph, Champs Elysee, Notre dame, Louvre, Sacre-Coeur and of course the Eiffel tower are all well worth a visit.
When to go: The summer months are very warm and inviting but tend to be very busy, early spring is a good time to avoid the crowds.

Rome

Also known as the ‘Eternal city’ named so by the romans who believed the city of Rome would live forever. The phrase ‘when in Rome’ comes to life as you soak up the energetic atmosphere and the Dolce vita lifestyle the Italians have adopted. Rich history, divine cuisine and most of all the coffee are amongst the many reasons to visit Rome.
Don’t miss- True espresso like you’ve never tasted before, discover the history of the Roman Empire which shaped the Europe we know today. Visit the magnificent Trevi fountain impressively lit up at night and don’t miss the famous Colosseum before witnessing St Peter’s Brasilica in Vatican City.
When to go:- Rome can be visited all year round regardless of weather but the crowds dissipate between October and April but can be much warmer in the summer months.

Barcelona

A city that is everything European, the city for art lovers, bohemian beach bums and trend setters. The bustling bohemian night life, inviting beach and glistening sunshine make Barcelona a perfect weekend getaway for everyone. The relaxed pace and Catalan culture meets dramatic architecture and gothic buildings to create a fun and unique city atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Gaudi’s masterpiece La Sagrada and the Gothic quarter are un-missable attractions, but mostly take in the colourful mosaics and art influenced culture.
When to go: The summer months can be very hot and the beach crowded. Head over in May for warm city weather but cool sea water or late September for cooler weather and warmer water.
 

Amsterdam

A European city more to be experienced than seen, numerous canals and picturesque bridges create a perfect picture opportunity and a relaxing weekend break. Known to be one of the safest and greenest cities in Europe, it is well worth a visit for its small town feel and welcoming people. Famously known as the bike and boat city Amsterdam has so much to offer.
Don’t Miss: Visit the Museums of Anne Frank and Van Gogh and tick off the red light district (if you must). If visiting in spring the Tulip gardens of Keukenhof are a colourful sight to behold.
When to go: An all year round city, in spring the colourful tulips bloom and during the summer the temperatures rise and quaint outdoor terraces open for diners.
 

Seville

Seville boasts some of the hottest temperatures in Europe with summer temperatures reaching above 35°C. The city is painted by its colourful history with evident andalusian, roman, colonial and even medieval influences. Fragrant orange trees, glistening sunshine and clear blue skies make the perfect place for a quick dose of weekend relaxation to escape the rush of daily life.
Don’t Miss: Visit the stunning Royal Palace Alcazar and climb to the top of Giralda Tower for superb city views then explore the cobbled streets for tapas joints and flamenco shows.
When to go: From March to May the city comes alive with colour for the festivals Semana Santa and Feria de Abril and the orange trees blossom. September and October are best to avoid the crowds and extreme temperatures.
 

Venice

Imagine your picture perfect romantic city break and it’s likely you’ll be sailing down the glistening canals of Venice in a romantic Gondola ride turning every corner to discover another quaint bridge and pretty floating building. A truly unique European city, Venice is a year round destination and popular for short breaks. Several restaurants have beautiful terraces overlooking the lagoon for that perfect luxury evening dinner.
Don’t Miss: a tourist favourite gondola ride and a visit to the famous St Marks Square.
When to go: Venice can be visited all year round although summer is warmer but can be very crowded.

 

Madrid

An energetic city perfect for a short break away to indulge in luxury shopping and the rich culture of art and easy living. Enjoy the simple pleasures in life at a vibrant Flamenco show whilst indulging on traditional Spanish tapas and local wine. The city exudes an atmosphere of young and fun by day and night, visit the beautiful green spaces and elegant buildings for a traditional city break in Madrid.
Don’t Miss: a day trip to Segovia Aqueduct an impressive world heritage site. Relax at Parque de Buen Retiro for a mixture of history and local relaxation.
When to go: It can be quite cold in winter but Madrid is still blessed with clear blue skies, If you’re looking for warmer temperatures the Summer months can be very hot and its best to find a hotel with a pool to stay cool.

 

 

Credit: Hazel Hammond CC