With so much choice out there, it can be mind boggling hitting on just the right holiday destination. If you are decided on a city break and are looking for a recipe for success, take a look at these five must-see European cities.
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Paris
The city of lights, full of culture, romance and history. And, of course, food! Does anyone do food better than the French? Everyone puts the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and Versaille at the top of their must-see list and then raves about them for months on end. To get a real slice of Parisian culture, make sure you take the time to wander off the beaten track. Paris is more than just a tourist hot spot; it is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, getting lost in it is half the fun.
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London
Full of history, museums, palaces and parks, London is a city everyone should see at least once. The food is eclectic; you can sample cuisine from just about anywhere in the world here. It is also one of the most expensive cities in Europe. A great way to keep costs down, holiday apartments in London tend to be based very centrally and are a fantastic starting point for exploring the city. They also give you the freedom to cook a few meals at home, meaning you can save some money and splash out on the more expensive, west end restaurants when you do go out.
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Rome
There’s so many things to do in Rome! Make sure you pack some serious walking shoes, you’re going to need them with this one, the only way to explore Rome is by foot. As well as the well-known Roman sites, which are well worth a look, Rome boasts architecture that other cities can only dream of. If you’re visiting the Vatican, it is well worth splashing out a little extra for a guided tour as part of a smaller party. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and more than willing to impart the juiciest historical gossip.
Venice
No city on Earth quite compares to Venice. Regardless of the budget you’re on, a good map is the best investment you can make when visiting this city. Famous for it’s waterways, the streets in between them can be narrow and confusing, you wouldn’t be the first tourist to get utterly lost. If you don’t mind braving the cold, early spring is a great time to see the city, there are far fewer tourists and the cost of accommodation falls dramatically. If you are staying in the city, don’t forget to budget for the city tax.
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Vienna
The classical capital of Europe, Vienna has a decidedly arty feel to it. Full of galleries, beautiful little cafes to lunch in and even a musical park, a trip to Vienna is a sure fire culture fix. Best explored over a long weekend; this city has something to offer everyone. From the Sigmund Freud Museum to the beach on the shores of the river, it is like no other city in the world.
