Looking for ideas for city breaks in Europe? Whether you’re planning a cultural escape, a romantic weekend or a girls’ weekend away, Europe offers a stunning variety of destinations to suit every traveller. Plus, with cheap flights from many UK airports, a weekend getaway in Europe has never been easier.
In fact, if you’re like me, there’s nothing more exciting than a European minibreak (other than a big holiday, of course!). When planning, look for cheap flights, short transfers, and plenty of things to do. Here is a roundup of our best weekend getaways from the last few years. Some were romantic city breaks, a few weekends away with friends, and a fun family getaway. I loved them all! Whatever type of traveller you are, I’ve got you covered with our pick of the best city breaks for Europe in 2025.
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Porto: a coastal gem in Portugal
Porto, the enchanting city in northern Portugal, is ideal for a relaxed yet vibrant city break. I loved it!
Explore Porto’s hilly cobblestone streets to see the blue-and-white Azulejo-tiled churches, before wandering down to the riverside to explore the colourful Ribeira district. Make sure you take a boat cruise on the River Douro and the chance to sample the local delicacy, port wine, at one of the many riverside cellars.
Allow lots of time to stop, as the food and drink scene in Porto is incredible, with prices that won’t break the bank. Porto’s blend of old-world charm and modern energy makes it an ideal choice for top European city breaks in 2025.
Malaga: A sun-soaked Escape
Malaga is often the gateway for travellers on the way to Spain’s Costa del Sol, but its sunny climate and lively atmosphere also make it a top destination for a girlie weekend away.
During the day, head to Malaga’ s incredible historic landmarks, the Alcazaba fortress and the Gibralfaro Castle, to learn about the city’s Moorish past. Plus, as the birthplace of Picasso, Malaga is a treasure trove for art lovers, with the Picasso Museum and the contemporary Centre Pompidou.
After a day of sightseeing, I’d recommend taking a short stroll to the sandy Malagueta Beach for a dip in the sea. If you don’t fancy the beach, visit one of the bars by the port to watch the sun go down. In the evenings, return to the historic centre to enjoy the lively tapas bars and restaurants.
Malaga is a vibrant destination for anyone looking for a mix of culture, nightlife, and beachside relaxation. For me, it had a bit of everything, so was ideal for a mini break.
Ljubljana: A hidden gem
Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is a hidden gem for those looking for a peaceful yet inspiring city break. This compact city is known for its eco-friendly vibe, pedestrianized streets, and the picturesque Ljubljanica River, lined with charming cafés.
A visit to the 11th-century Ljubljana Castle should be at the top of your list of things to do in Ljubljana. You can go up in the funicular railway, then return by foot to explore the historic Old Town, Prešeren Square, and visit the iconic Dragon Bridge.
At the end of the day, take a stroll through Tivoli Park, Ljubljana’s beautiful green space, where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing.
If you have time, take a day trip to Postjana Cave or to the stunning Lake Bled, just an hour from the capital. Or even extend your weekend, to a 2-week road trip in Slovenia!
Ljubljana’s vibrant cultural scene and relaxed ambiance make it an underrated yet delightful destination for city breaks in 2025.
Gdansk: A historic port city
Gdansk, located on Poland’s Baltic coast, is a city steeped in history and charm.
The beautifully restored Old Town is a must-see, with its colourful facades, Neptune’s Fountain, and majestic St. Mary’s Church.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Museum of the Second World War or European Solidarity Centre, which delves into the city’s role in Poland’s modern history. If museums aren’t your thing, take a boat cruise to Westerplatte, the historic peninsula where the war broke out. We did a fun round-trip on a pirate ship!
In the evenings, you’ll find plenty of lively bars and restaurants along the Motlawa River or can visit a Vodka bar to sample the local tipple.
If you fancy some beach time, head to nearby Sopot, a seaside destination with the longest wooden pier in Europe. We took the train to this charming coastal town in less than 30 minutes.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, Gdansk offers one of the best city breaks in Europe for 2025.
Split: Croatia’s coastal treasure
Although Dubrovnik has long been a popular choice for a weekend city break, Split, another Croatian gem, is an excellent alternative.
At the heart of the Split lies Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman complex famous as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Explore the city, enjoy a drink, then stroll along the Riva promenade to soak up the atmosphere. Afterwards climb nearby Marjan Hill for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
If you want to explore the local area, take an island trip to the Blue Cave or a day trip to Krka National Park, a stunning natural attraction with waterfalls and walking trails, just an hour from Split.
Bologna: Italy’s culinary capital
Bologna, known as “La Grassa” (The Fat One), is a paradise for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike. We went for a long weekend and loved it.
There’s no shortage of historic attractions to see in Bologna, but start in Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the historic centre. From here, wander under the city’s iconic porticoes, which stretch for miles, to see the Two Towers and Seven Churches of Santo Stefano. Remember to look out for the gargoyles lining the roof top.
This Italian city is famous for its rich cuisine, including iconic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini, and there are countless opportunities to stop and eat along the way. You could even do a walking food tour with a local guide.
For any car enthusiasts, take a day trip to Modena, home to two Ferrari Museums and its own UNESCO Heritage Site. We combined our trip to Modena and Bologna to make a fun weekend of food, history and supercars!
Bologna’s irresistible charm and culinary excellence make it a must-visit for top European city breaks.
Plan your 2025 city break now!
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural richness of Porto and Bologna, the coastal beauty of Malaga and Split, or the tranquil allure of Ljubljana and Gdansk, these cities offer unforgettable experiences.
Perfect for girlie weekends away or cultural explorations, these destinations are among our top ideas for the best city breaks in Europe for 2025.
Do you have any favourite destinations for European city breaks? Let me know in the comments below.
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