European city breaks are a great way to escape in 2025/2026. From the beaches of Barcelona to the museums of Milan, there are so many fantastic cities to discover and enjoy depending on what you're after and who you're travelling with.
Certain cities in Europe can be ideal for a romantic couples break while others are better suited to groups of friends, and many are suitable for families with young children too. Be sure to check out our guide to European city breaks below.
The best cities in Europe are very subjective, depending on what you love to see and do. From getting lost within the endless corridors of an art gallery, or hitting the hotel spa after a long day of shopping, there's so much to choose from. So here are a few of our favourites:
We love Barcelona. Combining exquisite Spanish cuisine, fine art and architecture, as well as soft sandy beaches, makes for an ideal city escape, even in the winter months. Getaways of even just a night or two here can be perfect.
Often known as a bit of a party place for stag dos, Prague is rich in history and full of lots of culture.
Paris is a wonderful city. If you've never been before you should certainly add it to your list of must-see destinations. A bit like London, once you've done the main tourist traps, there are plenty of hidden gems in and around the city to enjoy like a local.
The beautiful canals of Venice are a spectacle to behold. With rising sea levels, you should certainly add Venice to your list. Of course there are a number of popular tourist traps, however, you can easily lose yourself along the canals and narrow pathways through this stunning city. Be sure to check out some of the other stunning city breaks in Italy.
Despite the stereotypes, Amsterdam really is best seen by bike, and boat, and foot. Simply wandering the streets and canals are a wonderful way to explore the city and with plenty of museums and galleries, you'll certainly stumble upon some fantastic hidden gems.
City breaks, especially ones in Europe can be an affordable and easy way to escape the daily grind and enjoy a few days away. Taking a break, especially when things like Covid are about, is so important. Spending quality time with family and friends can help you escape, unwind and take a step back from your life to learn or see something new. Before you travel, it's always worth looking at reviews online of places to stay and things to do. You might have your eye on a stunning hotel but it's in the wrong location, or are into your health and fitness so it might be good to know what facilities the hotels have or how close they are to a local park or promenade for running along.