Short City breaks really are the perfect way to break up the year and get in some much-needed rest and recreation between longer holidays. At Simply Beach we know how important it is to explore and unwind and long weekend escapes are a fantastic way to keep ticking off the bucket list without burning through holiday allowance.
With so many amazing destinations now accessible via relatively cheap short haul flights we thought we would put together a shortlist of our favourite European City breaks, where you will still be able to soak up some sun, see some sea and leave your worries behind.
Venice - Italy
All the preconceptions surrounding this opulent archipelago are true! With epic grandeur around every corner this stunning city will keep you busy at a relaxed pace as you explore everything from the Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal right through to garden islands and hidden back streets. The stunning architecture is accompanied by agreeable weather and the world-famous Venetian cuisine.
Granted there may be city breaks less threatening to your bank account but there is something for everyone in Venice. The only worry is that one long weekend might not be enough!
Porto - Portugal
With a flight time of just over 2 hours from London airports Porto is the ultimate weekend excursion. By Friday evening you can find yourself on the the banks of the Rio Douro drinking in the street art and architecture whilst exploring through Portuguese-style tapas bars, gourmet steakhouses, port cellars and food markets.
Enjoy the stunning vistas from Porto’s trendy roof terrace bars as well as at Sé cathedral terrace and Gaia’s hilltop Jardim do Morro. The vibrant colour and extravagance stretch all the way down to the wide open ocean and sandy beaches in Foz do Douro where you will discover the ultimate blend of city buzz and tranquil coast.
Barcelona - Spain
Famed for its vast culture, incredible architecture and world-class drinking and dining scene Barcelona is a must visit! Set against the backdrop of the deep blue Mediterranean and sun-drenched beaches this historic city caters for all appetites and will keep all your senses active and feeling alive.
Compliment this environment with our gorgeous range of beachwear which will look just as good sightseeing as exploring or opt for a little less fabric with our stunning bikinis and swimsuits for when you spend relax at Barcelona beach.
Split - Croatia
Orange roofs, dramatic coastal mountains and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic all synonymous with Split. This buzzing and exuberant city has just the right balance between tradition and modernity and is a great place to explore. Within its white stone walls and under its courtyards are numerous shops, bars, cafes, hotels and houses as well as the Roman Diocletian Palace. If that isn’t enough then the picture-perfect beaches are a great place to cool off in the warmer months and enjoy calm, cool and clear water.
Nice - France
For any lover of French and Italian culture, Nice is the perfect hybrid. The sea and Mediterranean climate are complimented with year-round sunshine and vibrant street life making it easy to see why the city has become such a tourist magnet.
The relaxed pace of life and stunning sunsets represents everything a coastal city should be and to call it Nice would be an understatement, when it is so much more!
Did you find this article helpful? Then consider checking 5 Best Beach Escapes Near the London Olympics.
What's your favourite destination for a Weekend Break?