As the weather cools down and those extra holiday days that you have yet to use this year are looking at you and asking to be used, here is a little inspiration on my top few European weekend breaks for you to take… Hope this gives you a bit of wanderlust and encourage you to pop away for a lil’ weekend break with loved ones…because surely the greatest gift is your time and memories shared together.

 

GHENT, BELGIUM

image courtesy of @sebon.5_phototravel

The gorgeous Flemish city of Ghent is a lesser known beauty in Belgium. Think intricate medieval architecture and castles by the river harbour. Picturebook perfect!

Flight from London: 1 h 5 min, from approx £81, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

SIBIU, ROMANIA

image courtesy of @chrissrus

This beautiful medieval city is situated at the heart of fairy tale Romania, gorgeous restaurants line the cobblestone streets in Old town. Definitely do not miss out on visiting the beautiful Christmas Market that takes place here every winter!

Flight from London: 4 h 15 min, from approx £147, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

image courtesy of @krenn_imre

The grand city of Budapest along the enchanting River Danube. Buda’s charming old town contains many gems. Walk up to the Bastion and Take a dip in the smoky hot springs for the perfect active + relaxing city break.

Flight from London: 2 h 30 min, from approx £141, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

FREIBURG IM BREISGAU, GERMANY

image courtesy of @elhamhoxhalli

The cookie tin town of Freiburg im Breisgau lies on the edge of the mysterious Black Forest. Enjoy the sweeping views from the gothic cathedral Freiburg Minster and enjoy a cold beer in the central square of Munsterplatz.

Flight from London: 1 h 35 min, from approx £124, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

GRANADA, SPAIN

image courtesy of @li5a_delc

The city within the romantic region of Andalusia; Granada’s highlight is the enchanting hilltop fortress the Alhambra. Sweeping pools, gardens and patios from the Nasrid dynasty. A grand example of Moorish and Medieval architecture.

Flight from London: 4 h 20 min, from approx £151, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA

image courtesy of @innsbrucktourism

Situated in the charming region of Tyrol, Innsbuck is encircled by the dramatic presence of the swiss Alps. Explore Imperial Palace Hofburg, the exquisite Ambras Castle and more.

Flight from London: 2 h, from approx £130, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

BLED, SLOVENIA

image courtesty of @anapogacar

An enchanting Slovenian resort town placed on the edge of Lake Bled; which in the middle features the fairy tale like 11th century Bled Castle. Dreamy dreamy vibes.

Flight from London: 3 h 40 min, from approx £205, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

BASEL, SWITZERLAND

image courtesy of @rufusbixton

Running alongside the Rhine, Basel’s medieval old town features breathtaking riverside views. Cultural attractions galore in this beautiful little swiss city. They even have a zoo; yay for lemurs!

Flight from London: 1 h 35 min, from approx £124, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

BERGEN, NORWAY

image courtesy of @atleihagen

The colourful wooden houses in the old town of Bergen are a gorgeous sight. Reminiscent of the it’s a small world ride, this beautiful Norwegian city also features amazing hiking trails that lead to breathtaking panoramic views.

Flight from London: 3 h 15 min, from approx £151, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

CORK, IRELAND

image courtesy of @nathanbiller

The gorgeous Irish coastal town of Cork features the majestic Blarney Castle. Give Blarney stone a kiss, legend says that it grants the kisser with the gift of the gab (aka; eloquence in speech).

Flight from London: 1 h 15 min, from approx £109, book a gorgeous hotel HERE!

 

*Much love to all the amazing photographers who have contributed their stunning photography for this article. All photos belong to the photographer in the credit below the image.

 

Thank you for reading and happy travelling!