Best Short Break Destinations in Europe

Europe is without parallel in terms of its rich heritage, unrivalled cultural mix and sheer diversity of experiences, from skiing in the Alps and snorkelling in the Mediterranean to exploring some of the world’s most fabulous cities and their amazing cultural attractions. Here are just a few suggestions if you are looking for a short break on the Continent.

Berlin

Berlin has become one of the most creative and stimulating cultural centres in Europe since the Wall came down, and a break here offers a whole range of great things to see and do. For history buffs there are few destinations to rival it, and hedonists too are spoilt for choice, with loads of brilliant nightclubs and a cutting-edge music scene whether you are into classical or the latest techno vibes favourites. There are also wonderful parks and the restaurants and bars are legendary. Hotels in Berlin are amongst the finest in the world, and the choice is stunning. From the wacky Propeller Island City Lodge with its flying beds and cloud rooms to the more traditional and stately Honigmond Garden Hotel with its trimmed lawns and Japanese gardens, there is plenty of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes. Even on a short break in Berlin you can take in plenty of the sights, including the Reichstag, Berlin Wall, Cathedral and Checkpoint Charlie on the historical side, and there are numerous world-class museums and galleries to enjoy as well.

Prague

Prague is a fairy-tale city and was the old Bohemian capital before it fell under the wet blanket of Communism. Since the Velvet Revolution it has surged back in all its former glory and now attracts enthusiastic visitors from around the world. From quaint cobbled streets and medieval church spires in the Old Quarter to fashionable boutiques and designer outlets, Prague has the lot and is a conveniently compact city to explore on a short break. It has a rich medieval legacy evident in the superbly ornate Charles Bridge and stunning castle overlooking the river, and also a sense of humour best seen in the bizarre Dancing House, which has a stylish restaurant on its top floor. There is a great range of different accommodation types as well, including grand establishments like the Hotel Paris with its art nouveau splendour and the Le Palais, popular with celebrities.

Paris

This must be one of the most romantic short break destinations in Europe, jam-packed with iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe. It makes an ideal destination for couples as well as families and there are lots of different places to stay. At the top end there is the famous Paris Hilton, but there are many smaller and cosier places to put up that won’t break the bank. The Lancaster on the Champs-Elysees is pretty chic and there are also budget hotels such as the Hotel du Mont Blanc in the Latin Quarter, which many visitors prefer to get into the true spirit of Paris. There is so much to see here, but on a short break try to take in the Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Sacre-Coeur and Tuileries Gardens if you possibly can.