Essential European Summer City Breaks & Ideas In 2024

22 July 2023

Discover the ultimate European summer city break destinations. Affordable travel deals, hidden gems, and relaxing getaways – all in one place.

16 European Summer City Breaks & Ideas

Looking for the perfect European summer city break? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list that checks three boxes. 

• Inexpensive travel deals.
• Proximity to charming smaller cities.
• Options to escape from the urban hustle when you need it.

This list is your key to unlocking the best of Europe.

1. Rome

Discover history and culture with a city break in Rome, the heart of Italy. 
Walk through time in the sprawling Roman Forum, marvel at the iconic Colosseum, and make a wish at the Trevi Fountain. A haven for history buffs, foodies, and art enthusiasts, Rome is a European summer city break idea you can’t miss.
Ideal for: History Buffs, Food Lovers, Art Enthusiasts
Nearest Cities: Florence, Pisa, Naples
Nearest Getaways: Ostia Antica – an archaeological haven, Tivoli – a quaint town known for Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa.

Book your Rome citybreak holiday package.

2. Costa del Sol

Take a European summer city break to Costa del Sol, Spain‘s sun-drenched paradise. 
Dip your toes in the azure Mediterranean waters and explore the vibrant nightlife. A haven for beach lovers and golf enthusiasts, Costa del Sol offers a mix of relaxation and activity.
Ideal for: Beach Lovers, Golf Enthusiasts, Nightlife Seekers
Nearest Cities: Malaga, Granada, Seville
Nearest Getaways: Sierra de las Nieves – a serene nature reserve, Mijas – a charming white-washed village.

Book the perfect European summer city break with a Costa del Sol holiday deal

3. Milan

Step into the world of high fashion and opulent architecture with a city break in Milan. 
Explore the city’s artistic heritage at the Gothic Duomo and feast your eyes on The Last Supper. Milan, a mecca for fashionistas and art lovers, is a must for your European summer city breaks list.
Ideal for: Fashionistas, Art Lovers, Gourmet Travellers
Nearest Cities: Turin, Genoa, Verona
Nearest Getaways: Lake Como – breathtaking natural beauty, Bergamo – a medieval city with panoramic views.

Book a visit to the perfect city break destination with a Milan holiday package.
 

4. Prague

Get lost in the enchanting streets of Prague, the city of a hundred spires. 
Walk the historic Charles Bridge, explore Prague Castle, and savor traditional Czech Pilsner. Perfect for history enthusiasts and beer lovers, Prague is a captivating European summer city break idea.
Ideal for: History Buffs, Beer Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts
Nearest Cities: Dresden, Vienna, Bratislava
Nearest Getaways: Kutná Hora – a town known for its historic churches, Český Krumlov – a fairy tale-like town.

Book the perfect European summer city break with a Prague holiday package.
 

5. Budapest

Immerse yourself in the thermal baths of Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital. 
Admire the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament building, or take a cruise down the Danube River. Ideal for spa lovers and history enthusiasts, Budapest offers a unique European summer city break experience.
Ideal for: Spa Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Food Lovers
Nearest Cities: Vienna, Bratislava, Zagreb
Nearest Getaways: Lake Balaton – a freshwater lake in the Transdanubian region, Eger – a city known for its castle and red wines.

Book a visit to the perfect city break destination with a Budapest citybreak holiday package.

6. Antalya

Antalya, nestled on Turkey‘s turquoise coast, is your gateway to a realm of breathtaking beaches and ancient history. 
Meander through the cobblestoned streets of its old city, Kaleiçi, taking in centuries-old Ottoman architecture. Venture to Düden Waterfalls or soak up the sun at Konyaaltı Beach. The bustling bazaars here are an experience of their own.
Ideal for: Sun-seekers, History Enthusiasts, Shoppers
Nearest Cities: Fethiye, Marmaris, Konya
Nearest Getaways: Termessos – city of ancient ruins, Aspendos – home to a Roman theatre.

Book the perfect European summer city break with an Antalya holiday deal.

7. Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the city of canals, holds its charm in its laid-back atmosphere and artistic heritage. 
A city break here can see you cruising down its waterways, cycling around its historic centre, or delving into a wealth of art at the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum. Don’t miss out on a reflective visit to the Anne Frank House.
Ideal for: Art Lovers, History Buffs, Cycling Enthusiasts
Nearest Cities: Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht
Nearest Getaways: Keukenhof Gardens – spectacular floral displays, Zaanse Schans – a snapshot of Dutch history.

Book the perfect European summer city break with an Amsterdam citybreak holiday package.

8. Paris

Paris, the City of Light, invites you to lose yourself in a timeless journey of the senses.
From the artistic treasures of the Louvre to the pulsating life along the Seine, Paris breathes romance and sophistication. Unravel layers of history at the Notre-Dame, indulge in divine cuisine, or simply watch life go by at a sidewalk café.
Ideal for: Culture Vultures, Food Enthusiasts, Romantics
Nearest Cities: Versailles, Lyon, Reims
Nearest Getaways: Giverny – Monet’s home town, Mont Saint-Michel – island commune with a spectacular abbey.

Book the perfect European summer city break with a Paris citybreak holiday package.

9. Corfu

Corfu, set in the azure Ionian Sea, blends Greek charm with Venetian influences. 
Explore the cobbled streets of Corfu Town, swim in the clear waters of Paleokastritsa, or hike to the summit of Mount Pantokrator. Discover the joy of Greek hospitality in traditional tavernas and the island’s rich history in its centuries-old forts.
Ideal for: Nature Enthusiasts, History Lovers, Beach Bums
Nearest Cities: Igoumenitsa, Patra, Kefalonia
Nearest Getaways: Paxos – tranquillity embodied, Meteora – a complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries.

Book a visit to the perfect city break destination with a Corfu holiday package.

10. Madrid

Madrid, Spain‘s vibrant capital, offers a city break full of energy and culture. 
Wander the halls of the Prado Museum, taste the city’s gastronomic delights at Mercado San Miguel, and immerse yourself in the pulsating nightlife. Don’t forget to explore Madrid’s green oasis, the Retiro Park, and take a journey back in time at the Royal Palace.
Ideal for: Art Lovers, Foodies, Night Owls
Nearest Cities: Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca
Nearest Getaways: Sierra de Guadarrama – a haven for hikers, El Escorial – historic residence of the King of Spain.

Book the perfect European summer city break with a Madrid holiday deal.

11. Naples

For a city break immersed in Italian culture and history, Naples ticks all the boxes. 
Experience the city that gave birth to pizza, delve into the archaeological treasures of Pompeii, or witness the awe-inspiring Mount Vesuvius. The city’s bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and the warmth of its people will make your stay unforgettable.
Ideal for: Food Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers
Nearest Cities: Salerno, Rome, Bari
Nearest Getaways: Capri – an island paradise, Sorrento – a coastal town with beautiful views.

Book your ideal summer city break with a Naples citybreak holiday package.

12. Corsica

Corsica, a rugged island in the Mediterranean, promises a unique blend of cultural exploration and outdoor activities. 
Enjoy the unspoilt beaches, venture into the mountains, or soak up the history of its ancient citadels. With its French and Italian influences, Corsica offers a city break that’s a little off the beaten track.
Ideal for: Adventure Seekers, History Buffs, Beach Enthusiasts
Nearest Cities: Ajaccio, Bastia, Sardinia
Nearest Getaways: Bonifacio – a city on cliffs, Scandola Nature Reserve – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Book a visit to the perfect city break destination with a Corsica holiday package.

13. Pisa

Pisa is more than just the Leaning Tower. 
This Tuscan city invites you to explore its wealth of architectural wonders and academic legacy. Visit the Piazza dei Miracoli, discover Pisa’s medieval history, or simply relax by the Arno River. Add a touch of Italian charm to your European city breaks with a trip to Pisa.
Ideal for: History Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Foodies
Nearest Cities: Florence, Lucca, Livorno
Nearest Getaways: Cinque Terre – picturesque seaside villages, Chianti – famous wine region.

Book your ideal summer city break with a Pisa holiday package.

14. Venice

Venice, the City of Canals, offers a city break like no other. 
Glide down its waterways on a gondola, lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleys, and marvel at the architectural splendour of Saint Mark’s Basilica. For a touch of local culture, visit the colourful islands of Murano and Burano. Venice, a city that seems to float on water, is a truly magical European summer city break destination.
Ideal for: Romantics, Art Lovers, Culture Seekers
Nearest Cities: Padua, Verona, Treviso
Nearest Getaways: Lido – beach resort, Dolomites – stunning mountain range.

Book your ideal summer city break with a Venice holiday package.

15. Florence

Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance. 
It beckons with its world-class art and architectural masterpieces. Gaze at the splendour of the Duomo, walk across the Ponte Vecchio, and admire Botticelli’s works at the Uffizi Gallery. The Tuscan capital’s cobbled streets, bustling piazzas, and delectable cuisine make it a must-visit on your European city break.
Ideal for: Art Enthusiasts, Food Lovers, History Buffs
Nearest Cities: Siena, Lucca, Pisa
Nearest Getaways: Chianti – a charming wine region, Fiesole – hilltop town with panoramic views.

Book your ideal summer city break with a Florence holiday package.

16. Porto

Porto offers a vibrant city break. 
Delve into the city’s rich history at the Ribeira district, enjoy a glass of Port wine at a riverside cellar, or admire the intricate azulejos at São Bento railway station. Porto, with its blend of tradition and modernity, is an alluring European summer city break destination.
Ideal for: Wine Lovers, Foodies, History Buffs
Nearest Cities: Braga, Guimarães, Vila Real
Nearest Getaways: Douro Valley – a UNESCO-listed wine region, Aveiro – known as the ‘Venice of Portugal‘.

Book your Porto citybreak holiday package.

Did this comprehensive guide to the best European summer city break destinations help? Whatever your preferences may be, each of these cities promises a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s time to pack your bags and start exploring.