While the hot days of summer are ending and the fall is right at the door, what is better than a quick break in Europe? With its beautiful cities, outstanding architecture and art, mouth-watering food, and different cultures, Europe is the dream destination for travellers. In this list, we offer you a list of 11 city breaks in Europe so you can plan your next holiday!
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Oslo, Norway
The capital of Norway, Oslo, is the third-largest city in Scandinavia and is located on the northern bank of the Oslofjord. It is a modern, affluent metropolis that has benefited from shipping and oil. Nature is abundant in Oslo, which contributes to its good quality of life. The fjord is located in the city’s backyard, and unspoiled forests and hiking paths by the water and mountains are never more than a bus ride away. Visit the laid-back (and vegan) KUMI Oslobukta for brunch before exploring the nine km-long Havnepromenade. Grab a beverage at the cosy, vintage Andre til Hyre Bar in the evening.
Vienna, Austria
Can any city match the architectural splendour of Austria’s capital? Undoubtedly, Vienna is infinitely magnificent with its imposing castles, imperial palaces, and baroque alleys. The City of Music is a cultural powerhouse. While the Vienna State Opera and Vienna Philharmonic present world-class performances, this is possibly where waltzing started. Explore the areas around the fairytale St. Stephen’s Cathedral in circles, starting with the cobblestone old town and moving on to Leopoldstadt, an area with many restaurants and beach bars. If you visit one of Vienna’s gorgeous, marble-lined coffee shops, make sure to try the chocolate Sacher torte.
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. For the cuisine of this magnificent city, you can try Kumpel & Keule Speisewirtschaft, Das Lokal, and, Konnopke’s and have the best meals of your lifetime.
Barcelona, Spain
If this Spanish city were a Tinder profile, you’d undoubtedly swipe right because of its attractive features and outgoing demeanour. Dining out in Barcelona is a dream because of the abundance of excellent tapas, bars, and Michelin-starred restaurants, which are complemented by the sight of the Las Ramblas street performers for an enjoyable evening out. Besta, Mr. Porter, and Cocina Hermanos Torres are some of the restaurants that you can give a try.
Venice, Italy
This erstwhile marine commerce empire flaunts more borrowed beauty than a pawnbroker’s in Hatton Garden, and it is a vast reservoir of foreign wealth. In Venice, baroque architecture, lavish palaces, and Byzantine gold mosaics compete for visitors’ attention. Every church interior, intricate gateway, and grandiose façade is a piece of art. Of course, in a food country like Italy, you shouldn’t skip restaurants such as Osteria Campo Santa Marina, Al Covo, and Venissa.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s cobblestone streets echo the history of the city, yet behind those toy-town spires and domes is a contemporary, global city with trendy, cutting-edge restaurants. For breakfast, you can go to Café Louvre, where Einstein and Kafka visited, and for lunch, you can try U Kroka and finish your day with dinner in La Degustation.
London, England
Don’t miss London’s top attractions and must-see locations. Take a tour of the city to learn more about it, immerse yourself in the arts at galleries and museums, or pick one of the numerous free activities available. Treat yourself to renowned shopping districts or mark significant events at top-notch theatre productions, restaurants, and pubs. The restaurants you should try are Singburi, Bake Street, and Xi’an Impression London.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, one of Europe’s trendiest new city getaway spots, offers a vibrant nightlife, a wealth of museums and galleries, as well as a delectable culinary tradition. For breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you should try 100 Maneiras, Adega das Gravitas and A Floresta do Salitre.
Kaunas, Lithuania
The second-largest city in Lithuania and the previous interim capital, Kaunas, must be seen on every trip there. Any journey to Kaunas is rewarding because of the city’s stunning architecture, quirky museums, and significant historic landmarks. About the food, Kaunas is also the city the foodies will love, especially Uoksas, Numan Restaurant, and Spurgin.
Salzburg, Austria
Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg, is a city rich in culture and history that is bordered by the picturesque Alp Alps. Additionally, there are some fantastic hiking and tennis options nearby. Having your breakfast in Café Würfel Zucker, having a long lunch in My Indigo, and having the last meal of the day in Arge Beisl makes a great day in Salzburg the best!
Geneva, Switzerland
Due to its proximity to many ski resorts, including Avoriaz, La Clusaz, Les Carroz, and Flaine, as well as Chamonix, Geneva is the ideal compromise if you can’t decide between a city getaway and a skiing excursion. Treat yourself to upscale dining establishments, designer outlets, and the wintertime allure of Lake Geneva once you’re back in the city. Take a break from skiing and try the restaurants Geneva has to offer. For breakfast, try Birdie food & coffee, and for lunch, Manora is a great spot, and for dinner, Cafe Mutin.
Whether you’re seeking the cultural richness of Venice, the historical charm of Berlin, or the modern allure of Salzburg, Holiday Swap provides a diverse range of options to suit every traveller’s preferences.