The Best European Cities for a Long Weekend

Posted by TripMapper | 5th December 2022

Paris, France

Paris, the captivating capital of France, is an excellent destination for a long weekend trip in Europe. The City of Light seamlessly combines its fascinating history, breathtaking architecture, and lively culture to offer an unforgettable experience.

Paris boasts several iconic landmarks that are well worth visiting. The Eiffel Tower, a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of the city, offers stunning views. The Louvre Museum, housing the renowned Mona Lisa, is a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts. The bohemian streets of Montmartre invite visitors to explore its charm, while the awe-inspiring Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral leaves a lasting impression.

When in Paris, you cannot miss out on the delicious local French cuisine. Joining a food tour is a great way to make the most of Paris's culinary landscape in a short space of time. You'll sample classic French dishes, discover the artistry behind delicate macarons, and visit traditional Parisian brasseries, trendy bistros and produce markets.

Alongside the iconic architecture and outstanding food, you'll find a wealth of things to do and see in Paris, like strolling along the Seine River for a calming experience, discovering picturesque areas such as Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and getting lost in the creative vibe of the Musée d'Orsay. If shopping is on your mind, you can head over to the world-famous Champs-Élysées or explore the chic Le Marais neighborhood with its charming vintage boutiques.

Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, Paris has it all.

Use TripMapper to create your Paris itinerary and track your vacation budget. If you are in need of a starting point use our Paris itinerary which you can tailor to suit your needs!

Rome & the Vatican City, Italy

With its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine and timeless beauty, Rome is a remarkable city that continues to captivate travellers.

With renowned landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, strolling through Rome feels like a journey through time. Delving into these ancient ruins offers a chance to fully experience the grandeur of the Roman Empire and gain a deeper understanding of the city's past. The historic squares of the city, such as Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, are adorned with stunning fountains, charming cafes, and vibrant street life, all contributing to Rome's enchanting atmosphere.

Art and architecture enthusiasts should not miss St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, with its intricate artwork and breathtaking dome. The grandeur of the Vatican Museums, home to masterpieces such as Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, is an unforgettable experience.

For those seeking a gastronomic adventure, Rome offers everything from traditional artisan gelato and Roman-style pizza to Michelin-star restaurants. La Pergola, located at the top of Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, is a three-star Michelin restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views of the city. Another notable eatery is Ristorante Il Pagliaccio, a two-star Michelin restaurant known for its innovative dishes and elegant ambience.

Exploring Rome's ancient ruins, marvelling at its architectural wonders, and savouring the flavours of authentic Italian cuisine are just a few of the memorable experiences that await.

Use TripMapper to create your own Rome itinerary or if you eed a helping hand to get your Rome itinerary started check out our Rome & Vatican City itinerary which you can personalise and make your own.

Barcelona, Spain

With its unique blend of stunning architecture, fascinating history, sandy beaches, and mouthwatering cuisine, Barcelona is the perfect destination for a long weekend break.

Barcelona's architecture, particularly the creations of Antoni Gaudí, is a major attraction for visitors. The stunning Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló showcase Gaudí's visionary designs, characterised by intricate details and vibrant colours. The Gothic Quarter, with its winding streets, is also worth exploring for a glimpse into medieval Barcelona.

Barcelona offers a fantastic shopping experience catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Stroll down the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, lined with high-end designer boutiques such as Gucci and Prada, as well as renowned Spanish brands like Zara and Mango. For a more eclectic and artsy shopping experience, visit the trendy El Born neighbourhood. There, you'll discover charming boutiques featuring local designers and handmade crafts.

The city is brimming with cosy tapas bars and outdoor terraces where you can enjoy delicious small plates of patatas bravas, pan con tomate, jamón ibérico or innovative creations inspired by Catalan cuisine. If you want to indulge in regional specialities, you can't go wrong with escalivada (grilled vegetables), suquet de peix (fish stew), and crema catalana (Catalan crème brûlée). Be sure to check out the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria and its vast selection of fresh produce. A guided food tour is a great way to discover where to eat and drink in the city.

If you're looking for a place to unwind and soak up some sun, Barcelona's golden sandy beaches are the perfect destination. Barceloneta Beach, conveniently located near the city centre, is a popular choice due to its lively atmosphere and numerous beachfront restaurants and bars. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoy various water activities or simply relax and enjoy the Mediterranean coastline.

Whether you are admiring Gaudí's magnificent works, savouring the delectable Catalan cuisine, or just basking in the Mediterranean sun, Barcelona provides an unforgettable experience that will make you yearn for a return trip.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

With its charming canals, rich history and vibrant culture, Amsterdam offers a unique experience for visitors.

To truly experience the "Venice of the North" take a boat ride or walk the canal-side streets. The Canal Ring, recognised by UNESCO, showcases Amsterdam's architectural splendour and history. The charming, narrow houses with gabled facades on the banks of the canals are picture-perfect.

The waterways, bridges and bicycles of Amsterdam's historic centre are iconic but venture further in any direction outside of the canal ring, and you'll find a whole world more to explore. The city's diverse neighbourhoods, such as Jordaan and De Pijp, offer a variety of fashionable shops, trendy cafes, and bustling markets.

The city boasts a rich and fascinating history, and there are many historical sites and landmarks to explore. The Anne Frank House is a moving testament to the atrocities of World War II. The Rijksmuseum located in the Museumplein offers an extensive collection of Dutch art and cultural artefacts, providing an in-depth look into the country's heritage. The Museumplein is also home to the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum, the largest museum of modern and contemporary modern art in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam is an exciting destination in its own right, but it also serves as a great starting point for exploring other intriguing places in the Netherlands. A quick train ride will take you to the delightful city of Haarlem, renowned for its medieval architecture and stunning gardens. The iconic windmills at Zaanse Schans offer a peek into the country's countryside heritage, while the Keukenhof Gardens showcase an awe-inspiring array of vibrant tulips during the spring season.
Image by Isabella Juskova on Unsplash
London, United Kingdom

London, the enchanting capital city that invites you on a journey through time, culture, and incredible food!

Immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage as you explore iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. Marvel at the historical masterpieces such as St. Paul's Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, to modern marvels including striking skyscrapers like The Shard and the Gherkin, showcasing the city's continuous evolution as well as the preservation of its rich heritage.

Continuing with the theme of blending history and modernity, London's cultural offerings are unparalleled, with an array of world-class museums, galleries, and theatres. Lose yourself in the exhibits of the Victoria and Albert Museum, Tate Modern, or the Design Museum. Experience the magic of the West End with its dazzling theatre productions that captivate audiences night after night.

Fashionistas will find their paradise in London's renowned shopping districts, from the luxury of Bond Street and Knightsbridge to the eclectic markets of Camden and Portobello Road.

Indulge your senses in London's diverse culinary scene, ranging from the bustling food markets of Borough and Camden where locals and tourists flock to indulge in a sensory feast, to the Michelin-starred restaurants. London's food scene celebrates diversity, embracing traditional British fare alongside international flavours.

London's public transport system makes it easy to navigate the city. Take the Jubilee Line to Canary Wharf, a bustling business district known for its iconic skyscrapers, culinary scene and entertainment. Or perhaps take a Uber Boat Thames Clipper to Greenwich Park, a beautiful royal park located on the bank of the River Thames; the perfect place to unwind. Take a leisurely stroll through the park's gardens, or climb to the top of the hill for stunning views of the London skyline. Nearby Greenwich Market offers a vibrant street food scene, as well as an assortment of unique shops and stalls selling crafts, antiques, and artisanal products.

Use TripMapper to help you create your own London travel itinerary or use our London itinerary to give you a little inspiration.

Whether experiencing the romantic charm of Paris, marvelling at the ancient wonders of Rome, devouring tapas in Barcelona, cruising through the canals of Amsterdam, or exploring the iconic landmarks of London, use TripMapper as your trip planner when creating your itinerary.

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