These 12 European Weekend Getaways Will Have You Packing in No Time

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One of the best things about Europe is how you can see and do so much in one long weekend. Whether you want to escape gloomy weather and sunbathe on some of the world’s best beaches, visit historic locations, discover new cuisines, or enjoy a romantic city break with your partner, Europe has it all.

There are so many fascinating places to visit that deciding where to go for the weekend is challenging. Luckily, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 12 weekend getaways in Europe. We selected these destinations because they offer many things to see and do and unforgettable experiences.

London, United Kingdom

12 Must-Visit European Cities To Add to Your Bucket List London, UK — © Horváth Botond / Adobe Stock

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Let’s kickstart this list with one of Europe’s most iconic capital cities. London, the capital of England, is an excellent place to visit on a city break, especially if you’re looking for an action-packed weekend full of exciting and interesting attractions. London has something for everyone, from visiting royal palaces to eating your way through the best food markets.

Big foodies can tuck into international cuisine at Box Park or Borough Market. Families with children can have fun at London Dungeons. History buffs can learn more about England’s rich history at the Houses of Parliament and London Tower, and sports fans can watch multiple sports, such as soccer, cricket, and rugby. Oh, and partygoers can rock the night away in Soho.

Paris, France

Like London, Paris, the capital of France, is a wonderful place for a weekend getaway. Paris also has something to offer every kind of traveler. Although the city is a better destination for loved-up couples seeking a romantic city break than London. Most travelers visit Paris to discover the city’s iconic attractions.

You likely already know that Paris is home to world-famous attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. However, there is much more to see, including the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, Jardin du Luxembourg, and Tuileries Garden. The Palace of Versailles is also only a short journey away. In between exploring iconic landmarks, dine in one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants.

The Dolomites, Italy

Outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Europe’s impressive mountain landscapes should head to the Dolomites for a long weekend. Also known as the Dolomite Mountains, they are a mesmerizing mountain range in northeastern Italy famed for their monumental peaks. You’ll need to hire a car, but you can easily reach the Dolomites from places like Trento and Venice.

When you reach the mountain range, you’ll be blown away by picturesque winding roads, epic hiking trails, and one-of-a-kind mountain views. Highlights of any trip to the Dolomites include Croda da Lago, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lake Misurina, and Lago di Sorapis. We recommend visiting the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks first because they are the most impressive sight.

Chania, Greece

12 Must-Visit Greek Islands Crete — © proslgn / Adobe Stock

If you’d prefer to move at a slower pace and want to enjoy one of Europe’s best beach destinations, look no further than Chania, a charming town on the northwest coast of Crete, a picturesque Greek island famed for its pristine beaches, vibrant architecture, and rich history. Oh, and let’s not forget the crystal-clear turquoise waters.

In Chania, you can spend your days strolling along beaches, exploring historic landmarks, sipping cocktails by the sea, and shopping in quaint souvenir stores. Most of the action in the town centers around its breathtaking 14th-century Venetian harbor. You’ll find colorful Greek houses, beautiful Greek restaurants, handicraft stalls, and a 16th-century lighthouse here. Meanwhile, beachgoers can soak up the sun at Nea Chora Beach and Koum Kapi Beach.

Athens, Greece

Where to stay in Athens Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Athens — © kite_rin / Adobe Stock

No list of European weekend getaways is complete without Athens, one of Europe’s most famous capital cities. Once the heart of ancient Greece, the Greek capital is a beautiful city with much to offer. However, it’s best known for its rich history and world-famous hilltop citadel. Millions of tourists visit the city yearly to explore the Acropolis.

The Acropolis, Greece’s most visited tourist attraction, dates back to the 5th century B.C. It houses the ruins of several historic buildings, including the Old Temple of Athena, the Parthenon, and the Erechtheum. The fun doesn’t stop there, as the rest of the city is also home to historic attractions like Zappeion Hall, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Prague, Czech Republic

One of the downsides to weekend city breaks in Europe is how expensive they are. However, Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital, proves there are still affordable cities to visit. You’ll find cheaper accommodation, food, beverages, and attractions here. Unsurprisingly, this makes the city a big hit with budget backpackers, stag parties, and hen parties.

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Besides its affordability, Prague is renowned for its fairytale-esque architecture. We wouldn’t be surprised to meet Belle and Beast from Beauty and the Beast, wandering around the city’s stunning medieval streets. You’ll enjoy walking along the Vltava River, visiting Prague Castle, and exploring the Old Town. Meanwhile, partygoers will have fun in the clubs near Charles Bridge.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

The next European weekend getaway on our list is perfect for anyone wanting to visit one of the continent’s lesser-visited destinations. Despite being a fascinating place to explore, most tourists choose other European cities over Luxembourg City. They’re missing out, as this small city is much more relaxed.

Better yet, there are many things to see and do, such as Place Guillaume II, Bock Casemates, Palais Grand-Ducal, and Cathédrale Notre-Dame. When you’re not getting lost in a world of medieval and gothic-style architecture, experience the local buzz at Glacismaart market, sample local cuisine in charming cafes or restaurants, and walk along the Alzette and the Pétrusse rivers. What’s not to like?

Munich, Germany

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a vibrant city in Southern Germany well known for its stunning Gothic architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively festivals. Millions of people visit the city yearly to experience its authentic Bavarian charm, celebrate Oktoberfest, and indulge in German food’s greatest delights. There are also many lush gardens to discover.

For those who don’t know, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest Volksfest. It is widespread across Germany and has plenty of beer-drinking and a traveling carnival. The Oktoberfest takes place in Munich from late September to early October. If you don’t like beer, visit the city another time and explore its main attractions. Notable points of interest include the English Garden, Nymphenburg Palace, Deutsches Museum, and Marienplatz.

Split, Croatia

If you’re looking for a European destination that combines an exciting city break with sandy beaches and turquoise waters, consider staying in Split, Croatia. Not only is Split a fantastic city to explore, but it’s also gorgeous and jam-packed with exciting things to do, especially if you love Game of Thrones.

If you do, you’ll be pleased to hear that Split was used to film various scenes for the show. Diocletian’s Palace is arguably the city’s most famous Game of Thrones filming location. Another thing people love about Split is its beautiful appearance. You’ll find beautiful coastal views and breathtaking architecture everywhere you look. Regarding attractions, you don’t want to miss Saint Domnius Cathedral, Marjan, and Kasjuni Beach.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a fantastic weekend getaway destination for several reasons. First, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol offers transport links to most of the world’s major cities, so getting there is easy. Second, and most importantly, the city has many exciting things to see and do. Amsterdam is famed for its vibrant, narrow houses, historic tourist attractions, vast canal system, and lively nightlife scene.

As such, you’ll never tire of exploring the winding streets and strolling along the canal. Traveling by boat or bicycle is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city. Don’t miss iconic locations like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the wild De Wallen, better known as the Red Light District.

Oslo, Norway

The penultimate destination on our list is Oslo, the capital of Norway. Oslo is a brilliant place to visit if you want to see a lot in a short space of time and experience both sides of Norway. When you’re not visiting the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions, you’ll find yourself exploring the beautiful natural scenery in the Oslofjord.

The Oslofjord can be explored by boat or on foot. We recommend doing both so you can see more. Popular islands in the fjord are Nakholmen, Gressholmen, and Lindøya. Back in the city, visit Oslo’s best museums, tasty food markets, and iconic viewpoints. You don’t want to miss the Oslo Viking Ship Museum, Oslo Street Food, the Royal Palace, or the Oslo Opera House.

Rome, Italy

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy_The Historic Center of Rome_Castle Sant Angelo — © Mapics / Adobe Stock

We’ll finish with Rome, Italy’s historic capital city. We believe Rome is the ultimate European destination for a weekend getaway. It has an incredibly wide range of things to see, including many of Europe’s most iconic attractions, and it can all be seen in just a few days. A big hit with romantic couples, families, and history buffs, this beautiful city will blow your mind.

Put on the map by the Romans, you’ll spend most of your time visiting the city’s most famous historic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. You’ll also tuck into authentic Italian cuisine, sip coffee in Piazza Navona, and discover the smallest country in Europe (Vatican City).