These are the best European destinations for a weekend trip

When at the end of a long workday my concentration starts to wane a bit, I catch myself, perhaps a bit too often, looking at Skyscanner again. Although I also know that there often isn't time for a long and distant trip. But who says it has to be that way? According to Lonely Planet, there are plenty of gems closer to home that you can discover in a short time. They made a list of the best European destinations for a weekend trip.

The Gulf of Naples (Italy)

Italy is always a good idea as far as we are concerned. And a weekend gives you just enough time for an impressive tour around the Gulf of Naples. An activity that definitely shouldn't be missed is climbing the active volcano Vesuvius. At the top, you will have a fantastic view no matter what. From Naples itself, you can take a boat to the island of Ischia. Besides the beautiful beaches, you will find various hot springs that you can also visit in these cold months. You can also take a similar boat trip to Procida, an island full of colorful houses. Ideal for exploring on foot or by bike. One last unforgettable experience can be found in the underground city of Naples, including the Catacombs of San Gennaro filled with ancient burial chambers. You are and remain in Italy, so between all the activities, there are plenty of nice spots to enjoy traditional food. What more could you want?

Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

It may not be the most well-known holiday destination, but Sarajevo definitely deserves a spot on your list. The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich history and takes you back in time for a moment. The old bazaar Baščaršija is the historical and cultural center of the city. Here you will find all kinds of antique shops and stalls where craftsmen still work in traditional ways. To truly immerse yourself in the culture, you can visit Trg Oslobođenja. The streets of this old square are painted like a chessboard that the locals regularly use. To see a bit more of the surroundings, a day trip to Mostar is definitely worth it. Here you will find the famous Stari Most bridge, which is often used for bridge diving; quite impressive.

The Ionian Islands (Greece)

With its many islands, there is always something beautiful to discover in Greece. Such as the Ionian Islands, particularly Corfu and Paxi. The two islands are next to each other and can be easily combined during your weekend trip. In Corfu, you can enjoy the rich Greek history with the Venetian forts. With the Corfu Trail, which runs across the entire island, you will discover all the beautiful spots through vineyards and olive groves and along the beaches. On Paxi, you will find white chalk cliffs with various caves. Perfect for exploring by boat or kayak. A unique way to explore the surroundings, right?

Luxembourg (Luxembourg)

Speaking of close to home, Luxembourg is perhaps one of the most underrated capitals in Europe. The city has something for everyone, with a combination of old forts and modern architecture full of colorful houses. The forts can be visited with a guided tour, and with the UNESCO walking and cycling tours, you can discover the rest of the old city. To step into a different world, you can search for the many castles in the northern part of the city. Not far from there, you will find the modern center of Kirchberg full of art and futuristic buildings. A city with many faces.

Nice (France)

As the largest city on the Côte d’Azur, Nice has a lot to offer. In Vieux Nice, the old district of the city, you will discover various influences from the past and remnants of the ties with France and Italy. The cathedral of St. Réparate and the Palais Lascaris are definitely not to be missed. Art lovers can indulge in the elegant district of Cimiez right next door, where you can visit two art museums of Matisse and Chagall. This creative tour continues in the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain with various collections from the Nice School of Artists. After all that cultural immersion, you can end your trip wonderfully with a boat trip along the coastline of the Côte d’Azur.

Belfast (Northern Ireland)

Belfast is known as one of the safest and friendliest cities in Europe. That’s a good start, right? My fellow film lovers will certainly enjoy themselves at the Titanic Museum, as the ship was built here. On a tour, you will learn all the ins and outs and can take your own Jack and Rose photo at the tip of the ship. The Grand Opera House and Old Town Hall take you further back in time to the old style of Ireland in the 90s. And while you’re here, a visit to one of the pubs is, of course, a must. The same goes for the Giant’s Causeway, an expansive plain of hexagonal stones. A unique location full of extraordinary stories from Irish mythology. If you find a gap in your schedule, you can also explore Dublin after a two-hour trip.

Stockholm (Sweden)

As an ABBA fan, Stockholm it is high on my wish list. But besides the famous museum about the group and the cute colored houses, there are more special spots in the vicinity of the capital. About 20 km away lies Tyresta National Park; an unspoiled forest full of lakes and rocks over two billion years old, ideal for a relaxing walk. Near Stockholm, there are also various small islands that you can explore by boat and where you can also go ashore. Active people can, for example, stop at Utö, where you can hike, mountain bike, and sail. So you definitely won’t be bored during that weekend away.

Prague (Czech Republic)

This may not be a city where it will be much warmer than here in the Netherlands, but Prague is definitely worth it. The city is full of jazz clubs and underground bars where you can enjoy your cocktails in a unique way. If you want to discover more of the old history, you are also at the right address here. In the fortress city of Vyšehrad, which is surrounded by city walls, and the Old Town district, you can find various old sights while walking. Want something a bit more modern? Then the Holešovice district is for you. Here you can visit experimental theaters and techno clubs in converted factory halls and get to know traditional products at the markets. Maybe it’s time to book a long weekend?

Budapest (Hungary)

If there is one thing you will definitely find in Budapest, it is a vibrant nightlife. And also in special locations. The city has many ruin bars: spots that have emerged in abandoned buildings. During the day, you can completely relax in one of the bathhouses with various saunas and (indoor) swimming pools. The Danube flows through the city, which you can explore by boat. Those who take a bit longer can also visit one of the cities in the surrounding area during the trip. Once back, you can absorb a bit more culture during an opera or ballet performance at the Hungarian Opera in the city center.

Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Last but certainly not least: Ljubljana. This Slovenian capital is becoming increasingly popular and is also perfect for a budget-friendly trip. While walking or taking a cable car, you will reach Grajska Planota, a castle hill with a perfect view over the city. Here you can also enjoy delicious snacks and real local wines. Back down, you can stroll further through the cozy streets along the central market with various stalls and the university library. The city feels more like a large village and is therefore perfect for a weekend getaway.

Source: Lonely Planet