We love our holidays… but can you really beat a good city break? A few days uncovering a destination steeped in beauty, history, culture…sounds perfect to us!
We’ve picked out the top bucket list city break destinations you simply have to visit. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind experiences and places packed with pretty sights and things to do, you’ve come to the right place!
Barcelona
There’s a reason there’s multiple songs sung about this beautiful city – it’s one of the most beautiful places in Spain, if not the whole of Europe. Teeming with architectural wonders at every turn, you’ll be amazed by the works of Antoni Gaudi – with the famous La Sagrada Familia standing tall and proud as the beacon of the city.
From strolling through the iconic Las Ramblas markets to tasting the most delicious tapas your tastebuds have ever seen, a few days in Barcelona will leave you feeling like you’ve discovered a true taste of Spain. Plus, this city sits right on the coast, meaning you’ve got the best of both worlds – a superb city break and a beautiful beach on standby!
Rome
There’s few cities in the world quite like Rome. This Eternal City is brimming with ancient history, and is also home to some of the world’s most wondrous architecture, and of course, art. What more could you possibly want?!
A summer city break here is certainly one to tick off the bucket list – take a guided tour of the Colosseum and learn about the battles that used to take place, or sip on cocktails around the trickling Trevi Fountain (and don’t forget to throw a penny in for good luck!)
And let’s not forget about the food – if there’s one thing we love, it’s authentic Italian cuisine! Tuck into as much pizza and pasta as you like, with creamy gelato for dessert, and prepare for full on flavour like never before. Wash it all down with a shot or two of limoncello and your time in this Italian city will be complete!
New York
New York, New York – a city so amazing, they named it twice! The amount of things to do here is absolutely off the chart, with so many bucket-list moments ready and waiting to be ticked off. Take a selfie at the top of Rockerfeller Centre, tuck into street food in the thick of Times Square, and of course, visit the lady herself – the Statue of Liberty.
The best thing about a city break here is that it’s fabulous all year round – a visit in the height of summer will see you enjoying soaring temperatures and picnics in Central Park, and yet the same break in winter will still be just as amazing – think snowy scenes, captivating Christmas trees and ice skating. It’s like something out of a movie!
Catch a Broadway show, shop to your heart’s content or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. What city break could be more iconic?
Budapest
If you’d prefer a little something closer to home, then Budapest in Hungary could be just the ticket. This city is well known for its amazing spa opportunities – so if you’re looking for a bucket list break that’ll have you relaxing like never before, then here’s your answer!
Pack your cozzie or your shorts and make sure to visit Szecheny Bath – the largest and most popular thermal bath in Europe. Relax and unwind as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor sights of Budapest’s amazing architecture, all from the comfort of a bubbling hot pool. Pretty perfect, right?
On top of that, you can chill out even further in one of Budapest’s unique ruin bars, or soak up this country’s fascinating history from one of many quirky museums. This spa capital of the world has so much more to offer you – plus, you’ll return home feeling utterly serene. It’s a win-win!
Prague
Another city break that’s equally beautiful in both summer and winter, Prague is as picturesque a place as they come. In summer you’ll walk by the glistening Vltava river and spot gorgeous Gothic architecture against a backdrop of lush greenery, whilst in winter you’ll be in the festive spirit in no time. Wrap up and wander over the famous Charles Bridge as you make your way to the Christmas market, where drinking hot chocolate and singing carols is a must!
This city is also renowned for being one of the top places in the world to grab a beer, with so many unique bars on offer to sit back and enjoy your favourite tipple. From local bars featuring karaoke to those with sweeping river views, you won’t be short on places to get merry! This destination is also known for being cheaper than back home – so it’s one ticked off the bucket list, and at a reasonable cost!
Reykjavik
If you want to be blown away by stunning scenery and awe-inspiring sights, then bucket-list beauty Reykjavic in Iceland is a must.
A destination with natural wonders galore, here you can feast your eyes upon glistening glaciers, speed through snowy mountain tops on a quad bike adventure, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot the illustrious Northern Lights!
With trickling icy waterfalls to visit and a swim in a blue lagoon up for grabs, Reykjavik certainly won’t disappoint if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary. Just remember to wrap up, and pack those gloves!
Amsterdam
One of Europe’s most charming and beautiful cities, Amsterdam is a destination that’s got it all. With criss-crossing canals swaying through the city, no bucket list is complete without a selfie with these waterways as the backdrop.
And although superbly pretty, Amsterdam is jam-packed full of culture too. No visit here would be complete without a trip to the Anne Frank House, where you’ll learn the full extent of the chilling true tale of a young girl’s experience during WW2. And if you’re an art lover, the Van Gogh Museum will certainly tickle your fancy!
If you’re really going for it, hop on a bike and see the city on two wheels. There’s bicycles dotted all over the city, and it’s a great way to get a real feel for this colourful capital.
So, which one is next on your bucket list?
Take a look at our top city break deals right here for some holiday inspiration!