Want to travel in Europe but don’t have any vacation days? It’s more possible than you think. Due to the small size of most European countries and the proximity of so many varied locations, living in Europe makes weekend getaways more possible and accessible than any other continents. If you’re living here for a bit (like for a study abroad program or a quick expat stint) then here are 10 perfect weekend destinations in Europe that you have to visit!
Paris, France
Paris, the world-renowned City of Love, needs no introduction! It’s a great spot for a weekend trip, as it’s accessible through direct flights from every major European city through Charles De Gaulle Airport or accessible via Eurail through Gare du Nord.
Furthermore, one weekend is just enough time to see pretty much all the major sights in Paris, especially if it’s a long weekend. It won’t be an easy task, but with careful planning, the right itinerary, and strong motivation, you can hit all the classics like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and more! Check out my Paris itinerary linked below for more specifics.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is famous for a multitude of unrelated things: radical tolerance, picturesque canals, seedy activities, gorgeous architecture, eclectic culture, and more. It is for all the reasons above and more that I absolutely love this city. There’s absolutely something for everyone!
Relive history at the Anne Frank House, dine well at trendy restaurants like The Avocado Show, get blazed from a coffeeshop, snap photos of the stunning canals, explore art at the Van Gogh Museum, see new things in the Red Light District, party at one of Amsterdam’s many night clubs, and that’s all in one day! It’s the perfect destination for a weekend trip.
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Valencia, Spain
Spain’s third-largest city doesn’t show up in headlines as often as Barcelona and Madrid, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. Its got a rich cultural history, such as being where the famous Spanish rice dish paella originated from and a marvelous Old Town, and houses quite a few attractions such as the City of Arts and Sciences, with such modern architecture that you feel like you’ve literally stepped into the future.
Being Spain’s third-largest city, it’s quite accessible via train and plane and boasts just enough for a traveler to see in one weekend! Not to mention, it’s a fantastic beach getaway. With fantastic weather and all of the draws I’ve mentioned above, Valencia is a must for all your European bucket lists!
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Rome, Italy
Rome, the Eternal City, is another perfect destination for a historical weekend break. Sitting in the modern city of Rome are remnants from a vast empire nearly a thousand years ago. Staggeringly tall ruins blend with everyday modern life when one strolls down the ancient streets of Rome.
One weekend is the perfect amount of time to see major attractions like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill; browse a couple of museums; see sights like the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon; and stuff yourself with amazing Italian food.
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Barcelona, Spain
This seaside Spanish city has captured the hearts of millions around the world, myself included. It has an extremely distinctive character, having bred many artists and visionaries such as Picasso and Gaudi, and you’ll find its charm woven into the very streets of the city. There’s no way anyone wouldn’t love the city – there’s delicious food, stunning architecture, gorgeous beaches, and wild nightlife.
Although I have been to Barcelona three times and counting and found new things to do every single time, a weekend is a great amount of time to get a taste of this wonderful city and see why it has attracted so many from across the world.
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Prague, Czech Republic
If you’re looking for rich history, incredible Central European architecture, and a super cool subculture, Prague is the place for you! Known as the city of a hundred spires, walking around the city is nothing short of enchanting. You can see the stunning design in castles, churches, bridges, and old town squares. Also, don’t forget to visit some of Prague’s cool underground bars and cafes!
Because most of Prague’s main attractions are located in Old Town, which is quite walkable from end-to-end, a weekend is a perfect amount of time to see most of Prague’s famous attractions!
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Amalfi Coast, Italy
There is no way to describe the Amalfi Coast except heaven on earth. Combine amazing classical Italian food with gorgeous and pristine beaches with stunning architecture with awe-inspiring nature with European charm, and you get the perfect formula for a getaway.
Although I do recommend spending at least four days in the Amalfi Coast, if you only have a weekend, it is still definitely worth the trip. Get away from school or work or all of your troubles, lie on the beach, and enjoy la dolce vita.
Helpful resources:
- Amalfi Coast Travel Guide: 4 Days in Paradise
- The Best Towns In the Amalfi Coast: To Stay and Play
- How to Visit Positano on a Budget
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city for design-lovers. Immaculate orange roofs, pastel-colored facades, and who could forget, the gorgeous tiling all make Lisbon an absolutely breathtaking city! There’s also tons of cultural and historical sites to explore, delicious food to try (egg tarts anybody?) and a wonderful seaside climate. What’s not to love?
A weekend is an ideal amount of time to enjoy all that the capital of Portugal has to offer – and if you have an extra day, consider sneaking away on a day trip to Sintra or Cascais to see even more of Portugal!
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French Riviera, France
This is the ultimate luxe beach getaway! Dreaming of clear skies, sunshine, and beautiful waters? This is your spot! The French Riviera is a whole coast full of large cities and postcard-perfect towns which means that no matter what kind of beach getaway you’re looking for (and what budget you’re on) you’re sure to find a vacation that works for you!
While you’re here, take as much time as you need to relax in the sun, but also be sure to sample some amazing fresh seafood, explore the myriad small towns dotted along the coast, catch the stunning seaside views, and maybe even sneak in a quick day trip to the micronation of Monaco! One thing’s for sure; you’ll never run out of things to do.
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London, UK
As one of the most iconic cities in the world, of course London is a must-visit while you’re in Europe! Being such a metropolitan city, London is a whirlwind of influences from all around Europe and around the world. Of course, there’s also a rich history in London that dates back thousands of years to explore. Then there are cultural icons to explore more of in London, such as Harry Potter, Sherlock, the Beatles, and more.
One weekend will not be enough to see London – this city takes years to fully explore. However, one weekend is a good amount of time to get a taste of this remarkable metropolis, and to whet your appetite for more!
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