Weekend breaks: 10 great European destinations for your shortlist

When you’re short on time, but your wanderlust is strong, Europe offers an incredible range of destinations that can be explored in just a few days. From historic cities and Mediterranean islands to cultural hotspots and hidden gems, these 10 weekend breaks will all deliver memorable experiences.

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Few cities can rival Dubrovnik’s dramatic setting. Encircled by impressive stone walls and overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this Croatian gem is ideal for a long weekend. You can walk around the ancient city walls, explore gorgeous marble streets lined with historic buildings, and enjoy spectacular sunset views from the coastline. I’d recommend buying the Dubrovnik Pass, which gets you access to the walls and a range of other attractions.

Don’t miss

• Walking around the City Walls
• Meandering along the Stradun
• Having drinks at Buza Bar on the rocks
• Taking a trip to Lokrum Island

For more on Dubrovnik, read my post Dubrovnik: how to make the most of Croatia’s captivating coastal city.

2. Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is one of those cities that suffers the fate of having a prettier sibling. Bruges is often the first choice when considering a Belgian city to visit, and it’s certainly very Insta-worthy. But while Ghent also has plenty of picturesque canals and stunning medieval towers, it’s also a lively student city with a great food and drink scene, incredible art and is much less touristy. 

Don’t miss

• Visiting imposing Gravensteen Castle
• Taking a canal boat trip
• Doing the augmented reality tour at St Bavo’s Cathedral
• Exploring Ghent’s street art with the ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’ map

For more on Ghent, read my post Ghent: seven good reasons to visit this great Belgian city.

3. Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza is much more than its famous nightlife. Outside the summer party season, the island reveals a quieter side filled with lovely villages, scenic coastlines and excellent food. I decided to try it for a winter weekend in hopes of better weather than the UK. It delivered on that and so much more besides.

Don’t miss

• Exploring Ibiza’s walled old town without the crowds
• Eating breakfast at a cafe in pretty Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera
• Shopping at Las Dalias hippy market
• Visiting Parc Natural de Ses Salines’ salt flats and beaches

For more on Ibiza, read my post Ibiza: why this Spanish island is perfect for a winter weekend.

4. Limassol, Cyprus

Despite being one of the country’s most underrated destinations, Cyprus’s second-largest city (also known as Lemesos) has a lot to offer. With plenty of sunshine and a beautiful Mediterranean setting, Limassol is ideal for travellers looking to combine culture with relaxation. The city offers an attractive marina, historic centre and easy access to nearby vineyards and archaeological sites.

Don’t miss

• Taking a stroll along the seafront to Limassol Old Port
• Exploring the old town’s castle and cathedral
• Marvelling at the sights in nearby Ancient Kourion
• Discovering Cypriot wine on a tour of the Troodos Mountains

For more on Limassol, read my post Five reasons Limassol is a great addition to your Cyprus itinerary.

5. Lyon, France

When Lyon was recommended as a great place for foodies, it went straight on my travel list. What I didn’t know is that it’s also really pretty with not one but two rivers, and lots to see and do. The old town has a fabulous warren of narrow streets to explore, while the rivers are ideal for a boat trip. A perfect place for a fabulous weekend break in France.

Don’t miss

• The traboules and miraboules, a network of secret passages
• The hilltop Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere
• Lyon’s beautifully restored Roman amphitheatre
• Eating at both modern and traditional bouchons

For more on Lyon, read my post Only Lyon: for a fabulous foodie weekend in France.

6. Palma, Majorca

With a rich history, a gorgeous coastal setting and a fantastic array of great places to eat and drink, Palma is perfect for a long weekend. Or the ideal place to kick off a longer visit to a Spanish island that is regularly bathed in sunshine and surrounded by the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Don’t miss

• Marvelling over Le Seu, Palma’s stunning Gothic cathedral
• Tracking down the old town’s gorgeous hidden patios
• A visit to Sa Llotja to admire its twisted columns
• Trying out the fab food and drink Palma has to offer

For more on Palma, read my post Palma: the perfect addition to any travel list.

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik had been on my bucket list for a while, and Iceland’s capital city didn’t disappoint. Its seafront position, iconic sights, vibrant cafe culture, and access to exciting excursions make it a perfect destination for a weekend or longer. Whether you want to see its incredible church up close or go whale watching, Reykjavik has got you covered.

Don’t miss

• Hallgrimskirkja church with its soaring tower
• Visiting the stunning Harpa concert hall
• Strolling along the waterfront
• Exploring Rainbow Street and all of the city’s colourful street art

For more on Reykjavik, read my post Reykjavik: 10 tips for a great trip to Iceland’s colourful capital. 

8. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo is one of Europe’s most fascinating capitals. Set in a valley surrounded by mountains, the city blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and modern influences in a way few places can match. Spend a weekend wandering the historic Baščaršija district, strolling along the river and crossing the city’s many historic bridges. There are, of course, museums that tell the story of the city’s turbulent past, but I’d highly recommend the excellent Roses of Sarajevo tour for a more personal account.

Don’t miss

• Exploring Baščaršija, the city’s old town
• Walking along the Olympic bobsleigh track
• A riverside stroll to the famous Latin Bridge
• Trying Bosnian cuisine at The Four Rooms of Mrs Safija

For more on Sarajevo, read my post Sarajevo: what makes Bosnia’s capital such a special place.

9. Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city and offers everything you need for a perfect weekend break. A waterfront setting, interesting historical sights, excellent restaurants and bars, plus nearby beaches and vineyards.

Don’t miss

• Exploring the city’s ancient sights and churches
• Climbing the steep streets to Ana Poli
• Tasting excellent wines at the Gerovassiliou Estate
• Breakfasting on Greek omelettes at Garçon Brasserie

For more on Thessaloniki, read my post Thessaloniki: 10 ways to make memories in Greece’s second-largest city.

10. Turin, Italy

Turin was once the capital of the Savoy kingdom (and later of Italy itself), so its beautiful royal palaces and piazzas make it a very appealing city. Walking around Turin reminded me of Bologna, but on a grander scale, while the incredible food and drink were on a par with Bologna’s fabulous cuisine. That’s why the gorgeous capital of Italy’s Piedmont region is a great weekend destination.

Don’t miss

• Exploring Turin’s stunning palaces
• Seeing the famous Turin Shroud
• Sampling amazing Piedmontese food and wine
• Walking along the rooftop Fiat car test track

For more on Turin, read my post Turin: eight highlights of this gorgeous Italian city.

So that’s just 10 of the great places you can spend a European weekend break. Whether you’re drawn to the history of Sarajevo, the coastal charm of Dubrovnik, the medieval streets of Ghent or the sunshine of Ibiza, each destination will provide a memorable escape that doesn’t require an extended time away. Sometimes, all it takes is a long weekend and a sense of adventure.

For more European destinations, visit the Europe section of my blog.