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From lively markets to dazzling skyscrapers and megamalls

Whether you’re looking for a weekend city break in hotspots like Singapore and Cape Town, a unique shopping trip in retail hubs like Tokyo, Paris and Shanghai, or a tour around the world’s iconic city attractions from London to Rome, our shopping and city breaks will take you there.

Get away on a short city break

Need a break? We’ll take you on a big city tour in just a few days. Discover the European icons like London, Paris, Amsterdam and Rome, or take a break in Singapore’s gardens or Hong Kong’s skyscrapers. You could even combine the city with nature on our short city breaks in Tokyo and Mount Fuji, Sydney and the Blue Mountains, or Cape Town and the Cape Winelands.

Relax with some retail therapy

Get ready to shop ‘til you drop with our city shopping breaks. Stroll down Nakamise shopping street in Tokyo, hit the megamalls of Bangkok, walk down New York’s 5th Avenue, explore the chic boutiques of the French Riviera, or search for treasures in Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market. Whether you prefer luxury buys or vintage finds, there’s a shopping trip waiting for you.

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Whether you’ve got a weekend or a week, our city breaks are packed with as much adventure as you can handle. You could go from Kensington Palace to Stonehenge, or discover both Bangkok and Saigon in a few days, glide up Table Mountain then sip wine in Stellenbosch, or see the highlights of Rome, Vatican City and even Pompeii in one thrilling week.

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The 20 Best City Breaks in the USA

This article may contain affiliate links. Read my ABOUT page for more disclosure information.

When thinking about the 20 best city break destinations in the USA, I had to get a little help from my friends. I have collated all of my favourite US city breaks plus a bunch of cities recommended by other trusted travel bloggers around the United States. After reading this, you will no doubt be planning your USA city breaks for next year!

The 20 Best City Break Ideas in the USA:

… According to me and my travel blogging friends! I have put these in alphabetical order, purely for ease!

From Deb at The Visa Project

Boise is the perfect weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts looking to be in an urban setting. If you are  travelling to the USA  and looking for city breaks, Boise should definitely be on your list. Cycling or walking around the Boise river greenbelt is an excellent way to spend the day. It connects quite far along the River and comes with scenic views and wildlife. Rent a bike from Boise GreenBike or take a bike tour. Love hiking? Table Rock hiking trail and Old Penitentiary Trailhead are two great hikes very close to the city.

The Freak Alley Gallery is a large outdoor mural gallery with different styles of artwork and graffiti close to the downtown. Boise also has a vibrant microbrewery culture. The Bittercreek Alehouse and the Red Feather are a couple of places to add to your list. Immigrants from Basque country are a big part of Boise’s culture. Stop at the Basque Museum if you want to learn more about this unique culture.

Enjoy an amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure to discover the sights of Boise!

Hotels in Boise

There are many affordable hotel options in Boise. Try the affordable The Inn America , or the ever-reliable Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Boise .

Boston is a recent love of mine. We visited mainly due to my love of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, but ended up falling quite in love with the city for many other reasons. Learning about the American Revolution , enjoying Boston’s South End, and eating amazing food in Chinatown. Not to mention taking a day trip out to Salem – Boston is a near perfect city break option.

Stay at the AC Hotel by Marriott in South End for stylish hotel on the edge of Downtown.

I loved the Low Country charm of Charleston. It has a great mix of historic sites, lively nightlife, and some great foodie spots highlighting low country cuisine . Take a walking tour around the French Quarter , a harbour cruise ; or taste all the delicious barbecue food you can handle. Don’t forget to pay a visit to historic Fort Sumter too.

Before you visit, I recommend reading some of the excellent Charleston blogs from Jason at Road Trips and Coffee.

Lodging in Charleston

I would recommend staying in the Historic Downtown area of Charleston, if you can afford it. The lush Dewberry would be my luxury pick, or try the 3-star Francis Marion .

There’s a reason why Chicago is a much lauded city break destination in the USA. The city’s architecture, the music culture, and public art are second to none. Spending 2-3 days in Chicago will have you wanting to come back for more. Top picks for a city break in Chicago include: visiting the 360 Chicago Observation deck , eating a deep dish pizza (Lou Magnati’s is my favourite); and taking an architecture boat tour (obviously!).

Hotel Recommendations for Chicago

The best place to stay with easy access to the river and lake is along Grant Park in the South Loop. The Hilton Garden Inn and the Best Western Grant Park , and Homewood Suites by Hilton are all on 11th Street and very convenient.

From Derek & Mike at Robe Trotting

One of the premier city break destinations in the United States is Denver, gem of the Rocky Mountain West. The Mile High city is perfect for anyone who loves all the excitement of a vibrant downtown area with nature, hiking and mountains at their disposal. A weekend in Denver is truly a perfect hybrid for anyone that loves a cosmopolitan getaway without being too far from nature.

Denver is easy to get around as the city has invested heavily in its downtown public transit and as the state capital, it’s well connected to the surrounding area by light rail. Uber is another easy way to get around the city, especially if you stay somewhere central like the Westin Downtown Denver .

One of the best things to do in Denver is enjoy the green spaces like City Park. The massive urban park even has a zoo, museum and ribbons of hiking trails. Just outside the city you can expand your hiking to nearby Cherry Creek or Roxborough State Park. Denver is also home to one of the world’s best craft beer scenes. It’s a city full of breweries so any city break should include some beer hopping along Denver’s beer trail . Afterward, there are plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants to enjoy the sun setting over the Rocky Mountains.

From Shobha at Just Go Places

You will be pleasantly surprised by all the  things there are to do in Huntsville Alabama  for a city break. Huntsville is best known for its NASA space center which is admittedly a very cool attraction for children and adults alike. Additional Huntsville museums include the famous Art Museum and Burritt on the Mountain, a living history museum of early Alabama life. Constitutional Village in downtown Huntsville recalls the writing of the first Alabama constitution in 1819. The Huntsville Botanical Gardens is also a popular tourist attraction (the third most visited tourist attraction in the state with the NASA space center taking the top spot). Many visitors also like checking out the extensive street art and murals in the city including some of which are interactive making them great selfies!

Downton Huntsville has a wide choice of restaurants from fine dining to food trucks. There is also a growing craft beer scene not only in downtown Huntsville but also at Campus No. 805, a former middle school turned into a food and drink space. The Huntsville Tourist Office has trails for specific interests such as a craft beer trail or a coffee lovers trail. 

Although Downtown Huntsville is easy to walk around, you will need a car to get around the rest of Huntsville.

Hotels in Downtown Huntsville

Hotels include the AC Marriott and Embassy Suites , which are situated on Big Spring Park and an easy walk to the Art Museum and other attractions.

Las Vegas is definitely one of those bucket list USA city breaks. Experiencing the indulgence, craziness, larger than life nature of Vegas is perfect for a weekend away . Take in the view of the strip from the Stratosphere tower or catch live music on Fremont Street . Visit the Neon Graveyard, and experience a breakfast buffet with unlimited mimosas! Check out my beginner’s guide to Las Vegas , for all you need to know about Las Vegas.

Choosing a hotel in Las Vegas

There are so many hotels to choose from in Vegas. We have enjoyed the Stratosphere , and the Wynn Las Vegas .

Little Rock

From Portia at Pip and the City, and the Travel Goals Podcast 

A city break in Arkansas’ capital Little Rock is a sure-fire way to experience their thriving downtown, outdoor offerings and iconic attractions. Here, you’ll find best of the south with a vibrant foodie scene, a buzzing downtown and a historic feel.

Your first stop needs to be the dynamic River Market District. Featuring an impressive range of restaurants, shops, bars, nightlife, museums and hotels. This once disused area, full of condemned buildings has had millions of dollars’ worth of facelift to become hipster central. This is where the cool kids come to hang out, shop and relax. It’s also located right on the scenic Riverfront Park area. There are 33 acres of picturesque urban parkland to discover here, as well as a range of charming sculptures by local artists. 

For history enthusiasts, there is a wealth of historic sites and museums that explore the political and turbulent history of Little Rock. One of the  best things to do in Little Rock  is to take a trip to the Clinton Presidential Centre and Library. It’s a celebration of Little Rock resident and the United States’ 42 nd  president, Bill Clinton. You could spend hours getting to know the man behind the Oval Office; with a range of documents and exhibits that give an insight into the day-to-day running of the White House.

Significant black history is explored at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Centre and EMOBA, along with the Central High School Museum, where nine African American students made history in 1957.

Love biking? Why not explore the 15 miles of the Arkansas River Trail by bike? Whizz through downtown, through gorgeous parklands, over bridges and enjoy scenic river views on two wheels. It’s the best way to appreciate the diverse neighbourhoods and parklands of the city for sure. 

Memphis is a really well-rounded US city break. You have the buzz of Beale Street, amazing live music; as well as history and the beauty of the Mississippi River.

Dive into important black history at the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel – where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated. We spent nearly a full day here, and only scratched the surface. Nearby, the legendary Central BBQ restaurant makes for a tasty dinner after your visit.

Visit Overton Square, a lively arts, music and dining area outside of the centre. Enjoy the buskers and live music around the city. And make sure you take a ride on one of Memphis’s street cars!

Hotel Recommendations for Memphis

City break hotels which keep you near the action are: The amazing home of the duck parade, The Peabody ; or try Hotel Indigo or MOXY Memphis , both near Court Square.

New Orleans

From eating hot beignets in the French Quarter , to taking a trolley to the Garden District , and doing a cemetery tour – New Orleans is a very convivial city for a weekend break . Late brunches, po’ boy sandwiches and flavourful creole cooking will keep your tastebuds sated. Don’t miss having a cocktail at the carousel bar at the Hotel Monteleone!

Hotel Picks for New Orleans

Staying in the Garden District is my recommendation – try the Maison Saint Charles or Hotel Pontchartrain .

If you’ve never taken a bite of the Big Apple, you really should remedy that! NYC is heaving and frenetic, loud and chaotic. But it is also full of incredible art institutions and world class parks to find tranquility amongst the buzz. Even if you only have a few days in New York , you can pack a lot in. And much of it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Walking across Brooklyn Bridge, taking the Staten Island Ferry, and cycling in Central Park are all free / cheap!

NYC Hotel Options

For lodging, Hell’s Kitchen is central and fun – try CitizenM for funky high end lodgings, or Ink 48 .

Philadelphia

From Nichola at Family Hotel Expert

Philadelphia is a fantastic city for a weekend break, packed full of fun activities and with the coolest vibe. Take a wander or walking tour through the Historic District to see the Liberty Bell and Liberty Hall where the American Constitution was crafted. See the wonderful LOVE statue in Love Park and run up the steps of the Museum of Art like Rocky. Largely this is a city to wander through and it’s easy to get to many of the main sites in the centre by walking.

Get yourself a Philadelphia Sightseeing Pass to maximise your time in the city!

Stop for a Philly cheesesteak (or a vegan version at the fantastic Blackbird Pizzeria) or rest your feet and chow down on a hoagie. South Street is one of the best streets in the city, full of different cultures and with some great independent shops to peruse. Finally give yourself nightmares on a trip to Eastern State Penitentiary, an eery insight into the prison system of the past.

Some of the  best hotels in Philadelphia for families  or individuals are in the centre, such as the wonderful Rittenhouse Hotel to give you a fantastic stay on a weekend break in this wonderful city.

From Chrissy at Travel Passionate

If you’re a foodie traveler but have never been to  Portland , Oregon, let me tell you, you don’t know what you’re missing! Home to epic doughnuts , incredible ice cream, tasty Reuben sandwiches, and a whole host of fantastic food carts, Portland is a food and drink-lovers’ paradise.

When you’re not dining out on delicious bites you can spend your time visiting the beautiful Chinese Gardens, browsing for books in the legendary Powell’s book store, exploring the boutiques of The Pearl District, or learning all sorts of new fun facts at The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). In addition, there’s Washington Park, the historic Pittock Mansion, the hike to Witch’s Castle, and the array of vineyards and breweries to keep you entertained.

If you have a little longer for your city break, you can also tack on visits to the waterfalls of Columbia River Valley, go for a picnic on Sauvie Island, stroll around Forest Park or seek out some of the best street art around the city. If it’s your first time visiting Portland you’ll probably want to stay downtown ( The Heathman ) or in the Pearl District ( Hampton Inn & Suites ) so that you’re close to some of the best shops, bars, restaurants, and sights.

Salt Lake City

From Jessica at Skiing Kids

One of the best things about Salt Lake City is that you can have a city break; and enjoy nature at the same time.  You’ve got plenty of shopping, the Utah Jazz, the Utah Symphony, and lots of museums as well.  If you’ve got kids, head to the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, the free planetarium right around the corner. Or try the Natural History Museum of Utah, perfect for kids and adults alike.

In the winter, Salt Lake is famous for its skiing.  With 4 ski resorts within 30 minutes of downtown SLC, it’s one of the best places in Utah for a ski vacation too.

For lodging, try the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown , Residence Inn , or the AC Hotel by Marriott . All of which are near the lovely Pioneer Park.

Why not stay longer in Utah and take a tour of some of the amazing National Parks and desert landscapes nearby! You can get private and group tours from Salt Lake to Arches , Canyonlands , and Capitol Reef National Parks + more!

San Antonio

From Ketki of Dotted Globe

San Antonio is one of the best cities to visit in the southwestern USA for many reasons. It’s premier attraction, the San Antonio Riverwalk, has beautiful architecture and seems more European than American. There are plenty of things to do on the Riverwalk: eat Tex Mex food on the San Antonio riverbank ; buy souvenirs, take a cruise down the river, or go for a stroll. 

San Antonio is also popular for its missions including the famous Alamo. Visit the historic site to understand it’s importance in the battle for Texas’s independence. San Antonio also has many other museums, zoos, the sea world, the market, and vibrant neighborhoods like the Pearl District. 

The best time to visit San Antonio is from fall to spring; summers in the city are often too hot. Most of the attractions are concentrated around the Riverwalk, as are the top hotels in the city.

Hotel Recommendations for San Antonio

We recommend staying in the Riverwalk hotels such as The Westin or the Inn on Riverwalk B&B ; so you can walk to most places of interest.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a sassy city. There is a grit about the place that I find very appealing. So much so that we eloped there in 2015! Visiting Alcatraz is a spooky must-do, as well as a ride on the fantastic restored cable cars. On a city break, I would recommend at least 4 days in San Francisco . The sheer scale of the city will keep you very busy. And that’s before you’ve even explored the surrounding areas like Napa and Sonoma , or Monterey (see below)!

SF Hotel Picks

Hotels around the Union Square and Lower Nob Hill area are convenient for all transport and attractions. I suggest the famous Westin Union Square , or the Marriott further up the hill.

> Monterey

From Maggie at The World Was Here First

One of the best places to visit on a city break from San Francisco is the city of Monterey on California’s Central Coast. Though you can easily visit  Monterey as a day trip , it is also the perfect destination for a few days considering the vast amount of things to do in and around the city.

Known for its world class aquarium , no visit to Monterey is complete without visiting this incredible facility, which leads in marine research and conservation efforts. For history buffs, you will certainly enjoy walking along Cannery Row – made famous in John Steinbeck’s eponymous novel. If you are interested in getting a bit active, then make sure to take a stroll along all or part the 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail.

For those who want to enjoy more of the pristine nature that this area of California has to offer, then make sure to do the iconic 17-mile drive in nearby Pacific Grove or even drive a bit south to explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. A city break to Monterey can also be combined with exploring the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea (make sure to check out some wine tasting rooms!) or even take a drive to explore the absolute gorgeous Big Sur .

There is no denying that a visit to Monterey, California is one of the best city breaks you could take in the USA.

If you’re visiting during the whale migration, take a whale watching tour from Monterey!

Savannah is one of the few cities in the USA where you can carry out an alcoholic beverage and drink it on the street. I’m not saying that this is the only reason why you should visit, but it does make it fun! The thing that makes Savannah a fantastic city break destination is actually the people – they are some of the most friendly in the world. Read my short stay Savannah guide for all the interesting things you can do on your city break.

We only had 1 day in Seattle , but it deserves so much more. The monorail from Lower Queen Anne / Seattle Center to Downtown is a fun way to see the city. It slices through and between buildings, and drops you right in the centre of town. You could spend many days exploring the parks and museums near the Space Needle. And of course, you must go up the Space Needle to see the view of the city. Check out Post Alley, near Pike Place Market, for great boutiques and bars.

Get your Seattle CityPASS to save money on multiple attractions!

St. Pete, Florida

From Pauline at Beeloved City

If you are looking for a lively and sunny place for a city break in Florida, St Petersburg is the perfect choice! Located 30 minutes away from Tampa, St Pete (as the locals call it) is home to many beautiful beaches. Some are even ranked amongst the 10 best beaches in the USA! Make sure to head to St Pete Beach, Treasure Island and Clearwater Beach . If you like to discover secret places and stay away from the crowds, head to Fort De Soto, Honeymoon Island or Caladesi Island. These state parks are home to stunning beaches and they are usually very quiet.

Although going to the beach is fun, don’t skip downtown. St Pete is an artsy and dynamic city, there is a lot to do downtown. If you are into art, visiting the Dali Museum is a must-do. It features the biggest collection of Dali pieces outside of Spain. Strolling along Central Avenue is also a great thing to do. You will discover art galleries, cute cafes, amazing restaurants and some breweries. Make sure to grab a delicious Cuban sandwich at Bodega.

Hotel Recommendations for St Pete

To stay near the Central Avenue arts area, try the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront hotel. If you’d prefer to stay over at St Pete Beach, I recommend Sunset Vistas Beachfront Suites .

City breaks interspersed into road trips is my preferred way to see the USA ! HOW DO YOU LIKE TO TRAVEL?

All photos & content © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with a Canon DSLR T3i Rebel + an iPhoneX.

Advisory : Please follow the advice from official government sources and local authorities regarding travel restrictions. Read and be inspired, and pin it for later!

Hannah Henderson Travel Writer : Photographer : Foodie : Kiwi in France via Scotland

10 Important Life Lessons Learned on the Road

A tour of the red oxx factory in billings montana, 12 thoughts on “the 20 best city breaks in the usa”.

Hi! I have been so many times to the US as part of my previous job (Flight Attendant) but never to actually travel and explore the country. This article is a perfect guide for when I’ll get the chance! 😉

I love all of these ideas for a city getaway! I tend to travel to national parks over cities, so many of these cities are still on my bucket list, especially the cities on the west coast. I’m saving this for when we plan our next city getaway!

Love that you included Chicago in here. Being from the midwest, I think it gets overlooked a bit but there’s so much to see and do there.

It’s one of my very favourite cities in the US – can’t believe it’s overlooked!

I enjoy so many of these cities but so fun to see what possible in a few I haven’t visited. I haven’t been to Huntsville or Boise, and they sound like I should visit them. Also, it’s great to see the cities through new eyes.

I agree – I like hearing what other people have to say about my favourite cities – even if it’s bad – not every city gels with everyone 🙂

This is such an amazing list of places to visit in the States. I especially love Las Vegas, New Orleans, and New York City. I usually go there and just indulge in the food!

The food in NYC and New Orleans is exceptional isn’t it!

Great list. Had to revise my been-there-count down by one when I realised it’s not Huntsville, TX. Saw several people rubbish Philly on Twitter recently, but totally agree with you: awesome place and so much history. Those Chicago-style pizzas still have to grow on me, though.

Oh, give Chicago-style pizza a few more tries! I have learnt to love them despite Naples thin crust being my fave 😉

There are some great cities here, lucky to visit quite a few of them. There’s still a few I’ve yet to visit though. I was trying to think of somewhere I’d potentially add to the list and DC was the main omission – that’s a great city break too. Think you caught most of the best ones though 🙂

Good addition! I must visit DC!

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Virtuoso pianist Yuja Wang drops Cleveland Orchestra concerts from her tour schedule

• Updated: Apr. 04, 2024, 7:08 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 04, 2024, 12:03 p.m.

Yuja Wang, a virtuoso noted for her charismatic performances and widely regarded as one of today’s leading lights, has withdrawn from her scheduled Cleveland Orchestra concerts with guest conductor Klaus Makela at Severance Music Center April 18-20. (Photo by Hiroyuki Ito/Getty Images) Getty Images

• Zachary Lewis, special to cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Sorry, Yuja Wang fans. Your favorite pianist won’t be coming to Cleveland this season.

On Thursday, the Cleveland Orchestra announced that Wang, a virtuoso noted for her charismatic performances and widely regarded as one of today’s leading lights, has withdrawn from her scheduled concerts with guest conductor Klaus Makela at Severance Music Center April 18-20.

No official explanation was given, but the Cleveland Orchestra is not unique in its situation. Wang also withdrew recently from a performance of Bartok’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, where Makela was also scheduled to conduct and was recently named music director.

Several media outlets, including the New York Times , have reported that Wang and Makela were in a personal relationship but have recently broken up.

In Cleveland, Wang had been slated to perform Ravel’s Piano Concerto for the Left Hand and Stravinsky’s Concerto for Piano and Wind Instruments.

In her stead will now be pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, performing Gershwin’s Concerto in F.

The orchestral main attraction in Cleveland remains the same. As originally scheduled, Makela will conduct Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring.” In addition, he will now also conduct Milhaud’s “Le Boeuf sur le toit.”

More information and tickets can be obtained at clevelandorchestra.com . For answers to detailed questions, or to order tickets by phone, call 216-231-1111.

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City Break St Petersburg - Last Minute St Petersburg City Breaks

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The former Russian capital, St Petersburg, has nothing to be ashamed of compared to the current one. It offers grandeur on a similar scale, just with a different twist to it. Often called the Venice of the North, it will make you fall in love with it with its 342 bridges, beautiful canals and charming waterfront. In addition to such a picturesque scenery, St Petersburg offers a heavily artistic core. The Hermitage alone, with its displays and exhibitions showcasing the works of the greatest artists, is able to make a trip to St Petersburg worth it, but there is much more to see. From the Russian Museum to Catherine Palace, St Petersburg offers a real feast for the art buffs. In addition to the museums and art galleries, tourists can enjoy restaurants and nightclubs which can easily rival those in Moscow. The sheer number of tourist attractions and things to see and do in St Petersburg is so overwhelming that it’s hard to explore everything during one trip – St Petersburg takes, and deserves more than just one city break!

Money Saving Tips

Best period to visit st petersburg, accomodation tips, getting around st petersburg, top 10 things to see and do in st petersburg, other things to see and do, book the accommodation before you travel.

Make sure you take some time before you depart on a plane to St Petersburg and plan the journey carefully. If you look for a hostel or some other accommodation a few months before you leave, not only are you sure to find plenty of free spots, but the prices are also much more affordable.

Get the St Petersburg Guest Card

Try to get this electronic card for tourists, which will allow you to save some money while sightseeing. The card gives you access to a guided city tour in a red double-decker, but you will also get free admission to more than seventeen museums in the city, as well as tours in many of those.

Visit during the white nights

If you are planning your trip to St Petersburg, visiting it in June might be a good idea. That’s when the streets of St Petersburg stay lit until midnight, as all of the pubs and bars stay open, along with some other elements of the rich nightlife of the city.

Save on a plane ticket

You might be inclined to get to St Petersburg directly by plane, but there is actually another route which could prove to be more cost-efficient. Take a cheap flight to Tallinn, Estonia, and then take a bus to St Petersburg. It takes another eight hours, but it will allow you to see some sights on the way and it is cheaper.

Eat for cheap

Many restaurants in St Petersburg often raise their prices during the summer months, when a lot of tourists come. Sometimes it is hard to find a spot which will serve you dinner for an affordable price, but make sure to look for set business lunches, as some of the restaurants offer those for a reduced price.

Search for a guide near the docks

While there are many guides waiting around the airport, who will surely show you around the city, the ones who take less money for their services are stationed near the docks where cruise ships arrive. Not only will this save you some money, but it will also allow you to skip the lines in some popular attractions.

Try the local champagne

While surely the cheapest drink in St Petersburg, and in all of Russia, is vodka, you might also want to try something with less kick. The Russian version of champagne is also often served in pubs and bars and is the second cheapest drink. While it’s not as exquisite as real champagne, it is still quite good.

Search for hidden restaurants

There are many flashy eateries in St Petersburg, and you are sure not to miss them when walking by. Try to stay away from such establishments, as those usually have inadequately high prices. Instead, try to search for some hidden gems, mostly on Bolshaya Morskaya Street, for the best local food.

Take a train to Moscow

While on your journey in St Petersburg, you may also want to dedicate a day to travel to Moscow, as it is just as beautiful. The best way to get to Moscow from St Petersburg is taking an overnight train, which is an experience in itself, as you travel through the picturesque landscape in an old-fashioned train.

Visit the Gold Room at the Hermitage

As you surely will visit the Hermitage, the most famous attraction of St Petersburg, make sure to stop by the unique Gold Room. As you step in, the doors will be locked from the outside, and you will not be able to leave until a guide describes you in detail every single item that is in the room, from hat pins to thimbles.

If you're not a big fan of crowds, consider visiting St Petersburg outside of the high season, which lasts from mid-June to September. However, St Petersburg is rarely overwhelming crowded, so unless you want to hunt for discounts, the season is generally the best period for enjoying St Petersburg.

Summer in St Petersburg is not overly warm, but still pleasant. Temperatures reach around 20°C, with 22°C being the high in July. Winter, on the other hand, can be quite extreme, with temperatures reaching -10°C and below.

St Petersburg is quite expensive from mid-June to September, which is the prime season. Outside of that period, everything gets substantially cheaper. Winter offers the highest discounts, but it's harsh and not very pleasant.

Maslenitsa Festival (February-March) Dance Open (March-April) International Ballet Festival (Late April) Musical Olympus International Festival (May-June) White Nights (June) Singing World: International Festival of Choral Art (July-August) International Early Music Festival (September) International Winter Festival Arts Square (December)

Rental apartments provide tourists with increased convenience and privacy. They allow for cooking your own food, which allows you to save money, as well as provides a more personal experience when staying in St Petersburg.

Budget (1-2 star) hotels

St Petersburg is one of the more expensive cities to visit, but by carefully choosing your hotel, you can save a lot of money. Cheap hotels in St Petersburg are comfortable enough, while at the same time being substantially cheaper than their standard counterparts.

Standard (3-4 star) hotels

Standard hotels in St Petersburg are comfortable, affordable and conveniently located. This makes them the most popular choice among the tourists in St Petersburg. Nightly rates for 3- and 4-star hotels in St Petersburg start around €50.

Luxury hotels in St Petersburg

St Petersburg offers no shortage of luxury hotels, which are the most spectacular form of accommodation that one can choose. State-of-the-art facilities, perfect location and impeccable service are what makes luxury hotels in St Petersburg able to satisfy even the most demanding guests.

While St Petersburg is still in development when it comes to infrastructure as well as respect for cyclists, a bike is still a good way to traverse the city, as the flat terrain makes it even easier. The city has a bike-sharing programme with 56 stations all over town, and if you want a bike for yourself, try one of the many rentals.

A good way to travel around the city while sightseeing is to take a marshrutka, a local minibus. Not only do they cover certain parts of the city that the metro does not, but they are a sight to see in themselves. Take care though, as they have almost no signs in English on them. The marshrutky are unique as they do not have any specific stops. You must open the door and jump in yourself, and after you are in, you pay the fee directly to the driver. A single fare costs R40, and you will need to tell whenever you want to stop.

Car and motorcycle

St Petersburg is not a bad city to drive around, considering most of it is open to traffic, and there seems to be plenty of parking space in the city. There are also a couple of rental agencies, some providing vintage Soviet cars.

The metro of St Petersburg is not only very efficient, but almost every station is a sight to see with marvellous architecture and Soviet ornaments. There are five lines of the metro, spread across more than seventy different stations. Make sure you keep looking for signs with a large, blue M, as those mark the entrances to metro stations. Each trip will cost you R45, no matter how far, and you will have to get additional tickets if you are carrying luggage with you. There is, however, a smart card service operating in the city, which saves more money if you are staying for over two days. The card allows you multiple journeys, and you can recharge the card if you run out of credit.

Taxis are a surprisingly affordable method of transportation in St Petersburg, as mobile apps have made the competition even higher, driving the prices down while improving the service. You can also order a taxi by phone, but you will probably need to speak Russian. Instead, you can always ask the reception of your hotel to call a taxi for you. Keep in mind that the prices of the taxis are not flat and can be negotiated, so don’t hesitate to do so.

While there are only a couple of trams operating in the city, they can be useful in Kolomna or Vasilyevsky Island, as there are not many other methods of public transport available.

Tickets and Passes

• Single metro ticket – valid for one ride only, without transitions. Costs R45. • Smart card – while generally more cost-efficient than single tickets, better make sure you’re going to use all of the tickets on your card. • Marshrutka – the local minibuses do not have a flat fare, and some of them will charge you differently. You always pay directly to the driver.

Shore Excursion City Tour

This tour takes two days and allows you to travel in your own, private ship, which is docked during the night. You will be able to learn the history of the city from a guide, who will also show you around the highlights of the city, including early access to the Hermitage to avoid the crowds.

St Petersburg Small Group Two-Day Tour

Allowing you to bypass some of the longest lines at the main attractions of the city, including the Hermitage, this tour will take two days to show you the city with a small group of people. Not only will you be able to see the gorgeous cityscape of St Petersburg from different viewpoints, but you will also be able to enjoy a traditional Russian dinner.

Small Group Hermitage Museum Tour with Skip-The-Line

This three-hour-long tour of St Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum will give you plenty of time to explore the building on your own, and even provide you with a skip-the-line admission and early access in summer. Inside, you can see some of the greatest works of Western European art, including works of Da Vinci and Raphael.

Grand Tour of St Petersburg

Traverse the streets of the city of St Petersburg as you are led by a well-accustomed, English-speaking guide. The tour provides transportation throughout the city with an air-conditioned coach. You can even opt-in for a hotel pick-up, which will allow you to save yourself the trouble of getting to the centre.

St Petersburg Imperial Splendors and Faberge Museum

Spread across two days to give you a lot of time to discover the sights in your own pace, this tour provides a guided shore excursion trip around the city. You do not need any visa paperwork to enjoy the tour, and you will be enjoying panoramic views of the city and such monuments as Catherine Palace and more.

Peterhof Grand Palace and Gardens Tour

This four-hour-long tour of the Peterhof Grand Palace will take you aboard a comfortable boat as you cruise along the Neva River for forty-five minutes. After the cruise, you will be able to walk through both the Lower and the Upper Gardens and to conclude the tour, you will see the Palace from the inside.

Small Group Early Access Tour to Peterhof Grand Palace

Taking five hours of your day, this informative tour of the Peterhof Grand Palace will depart right from the centre of St Petersburg. You will be able to explore the gorgeous palace at your own pace with a local guide to answer your questions and provide you with facts about the history and heritage of the palace.

One-Day Imperial St Petersburg Highlights

This full-day tour of the city of St Petersburgh will show you some of its Imperial cultural heritage, with Russian visas included, so you don’t have to worry about anything. A well-informed guide will give you a history lesson on the royal past of the city, as you explore the Hermitage and the Church on Spilled Blood.

Tour of Pushkin and Catherine Palace

A half-day-long tour which will take you to Pushkin, a town near St Petersburg. In Pushkin, you will be able to discover Tsarskoye Selo, a town inside of a town, as well as the Catherine Palace, which was one of the residences of the royal family, and is listed on the UNESCO heritage list.

Moscow Must-Sees Private Tour from St Petersburg

This tour will allow you to escape from the hustle and bustle of the streets of St Petersburg and will take you on a full-day trip to Moscow, the capital of Russia. You will be able to walk around the Old Town as a local guide explains the culture and history of the city, and leads you to the Victory Park, Red Square, Kazan Cathedral and more.

State Hermitage Museum

While the Hermitage often requires an expensive ticket to enter, make sure to stop by during the first Thursday of the month, which will allow you to see the museum for free. Inside, you will find many exhibitions and collections of art, including the works of Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Kunstkamera

Located just next to the Hermitage, the Kunstkamera is a museum of ethnology and ethnography and is among the most popular museums in the city. Inside, you will see the famous collection of Peter the Great. The museum was opened in 1727 and is open for free to all tourists on the third Thursday each month.

Vladimir Nabokov Museum

Open to the visitors for free during the whole year, the Vladimir Nabokov Museum is a 19th-century house, which was the childhood home of Vladimir Nabokov, the author of Lolita and by some regarded the most versatile Russian writer of the 20th century. The collection of the museum includes artifacts from his childhood, among others.

Sigmund Freud Museum of Dreams

While it is definitely one of the weirder attractions of St Petersburg, the Sigmund Freud Museum of Dreams is sure worth a visit. Inside, you will be able to experience an odd exhibition of abstractions and ideas, not physical items, with illustrations of Freud's patients' dreams.

Yusupov Gardens

Being one of the hidden gems of the city of St Petersburg, the Yusupov Gardens are often overlooked by tourists as they are located West of Sennaya Ploshchad. Inside the park, you will find a gorgeous lake in the middle, surrounded by flowery grounds and the Old Yusupov Palace not far from it.

Mikhailovsky Gardens

If you are looking for a cosy spot for an afternoon walk or a jogging session, make sure to stop by the Mikhailovsky Gardens in St Petersburg. The Gardens are operated by the Russian Museum, and span across almost nine hectares, presenting the famous Russian Style Moderne with wrought-iron décor elements.

Summer Garden

Being the oldest park in the city, the Summer Garden is still among the more picturesque ones. Filled with trees and bushes, the park can be entered at the northern Neva end or the southern Moyka end. It was laid out in the early 18th century in a baroque style and is filled with gorgeous marble sculptures.

New Holland Island

Located right in the city centre, the New Holland Island is one of the newest additions to the cultural scene of St Petersburg. The Island is a contemporary cultural hub and a haven for artists of all kind, who often put up their latest work for people to see among the stalls of the Island.

Alexander Nevsky Monastery

Not only can you gaze at the beautiful outside façade of the monastery, but you can also come inside for free during mass to participate in the occasion. While you are there, make sure to step outside afterwards to see the gravesites of some of the most famous Russian artists.

Opened in 2005, the Anna Nova is one of the most prominent galleries in Russia which work in the field of contemporary art. The gallery presents collections of artists from different generations, local and international alike, and hosts many rotating exhibitions which are free to see.

Marina Gisich

Presenting a wide collection of mostly local contemporary and modern art, the art gallery of Marina Gisich is a place worth visiting. There is a range of rotating exhibitions with artists such as Belyi Peter, Kozin Vladimir, Morozov Alexander, Alexeeva Marina, and others, along with various art fairs.

Name Gallery

With a very unique group of exhibitions, the Name Gallery includes the works of six graphic artists spread across two eras, one from 1970 to 1980 and the other from 2014 to 2018. Moreover, if you come during one of the opening nights of one of the exhibitions, you will be given a glass of champagne and some appetisers for free.

When on your vacation in St Petersburg, make sure to visit Dom Knigi, the oldest bookshop in the city. It is located inside of the gorgeous Singer Building, which is worth visiting in itself and is free to enter. There is a lot of English-language books on the ground floor, and you can get some as souvenirs.

Singer Building

Being a former headquarters of the Singer sewing machine company, the Singer Building is one of the most picturesque buildings in all of St Petersburg. The modern architectural style of the building was designed by Pavel Suzor, and it is finished off with a gorgeous glass tower adorned with sculptures.

If you are in the mood to visit a grand flea market, make sure to stop by the Udelka. Filled with a range of collections of WWII memorabilia, Soviet souvenirs, pre-revolutionary artifacts, and many more, the Udelnaya Fair, as it is properly called, allows you to gaze upon the curiosities for free.

Avtovo Station

While you may think that an ordinary metro station is nothing special to look at, you will be surely surprised by the gorgeous architecture of the Avtovo station. Not only is it furnished with sophisticated chandeliers and adorned with tall columns, commemorating the Soviet Union, but it is also filled with ornamental glass.

While the concept of an anti-café originates in Moscow, it is also very popular in St Petersburg. The twist of the anti-café is that you do not pay for the coffee, snacks, and pastries you get there, but instead you pay for the time you spent there. It's a great place to relax and unwind, or even meet some people and play board games together.

Being the original anti-café of St Petersburg, the Ziferblat is one of the oldest free spaces of the city. As you pay for the time spent here, you will be provided with cookies, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and pastries. You can even spot some local artists who come here to work on their paintings in peace and quiet.

Free city tours

There are some free city tours departing from the Alexander Column on Palace Square, so make sure to stop by. The tours start at 10:45 a.m. and offers a two-and-a-half hour experience, along with a local guide who speaks English. Be cautious that the tours are widely popular and there are often full.

Gulf of Finland

With its northern coast not far from St Petersburg, the Gulf of Finland is a popular place among the locals to relax during the summer months. If you happen to visit the city during hot summer time, make sure to stop by the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Finland with a tranquil atmosphere and plenty of restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hotels for st petersburg city break.

Our list of the best hotels in St Petersburg are: Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg , Solo Sokos Hotel Palace Bridge , The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel , Angleterre Hotel and Kempinski Hotel . Discover the full list of best hotels in St Petersburg .

What are the luxury hotels in St Petersburg?

The finest examples of luxury hotels in St Petersburg include Belmond Grand Hotel Europe , Rocco Forte Astoria Hotel , Domina St Petersburg , Radisson Royal Hotel , Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St Petersburg , So Sofitel St Petersburg and Grand Hotel Emerald . Discover the full list of luxury hotels in St Petersburg .

What are the cheap hotels in St Petersburg?

Those trying to visit St Petersburg on a tight budget will find everything they need in hotels such as Grand Hotel Emerald , Park Inn by Radisson Pulkovskaya Hotel & Conference Centre St Petersburg , Akyan St Petersburg , Park Inn by Radisson Nevsky , Pushka INN hotel , Original Sokos Hotel Olympia Garden and Best Western Plus Centre Hotel . Discover the full list of Cheap hotels in St Petersburg .

What is the best period to visit St Petersburg for a city break?

Taking factors such as weather, crowds and prices, the best months to visit St Petersburg for a city break are July, September, October and November.

What are top 5 things to see and do in St Petersburg?

St Petersburg offers plenty of exciting attractions and things to do. Must-sees in St Petersburg include: Shore Excursion City Tour, St Petersburg Small Group Two-Day Tour, Small Group Hermitage Museum Tour with Skip-The-Line, Grand Tour of St Petersburg and St Petersburg Imperial Splendors and Faberge Museum.

How much does an St Petersburg city pass cost?

A city pass in St Petersburg costs around €57.

How much does public transport in St Petersburg cost?

24-hour ticket for public transport in St Petersburg costs around €2.70.

What are the best night clubs in St Petersburg?

The best night clubs in St Petersburg include: JFC Jazz Club, Nebar, Russian Paradise Bar, 7Sky and Lomonosov Bar.

What are the best bars in St Petersburg?

Judging on the reviews and customer opinions, the best bars in St Petersburg are: Birreriya, Redrum Bar, Sidreriya, Khroniki Bar and Apotheke Bar.

What are the best places to eat in St Petersburg?

Your choice of the best restaurants in St Petersburg may vary depending on your taste, however, Palkin Restaurant, Abajour Café, Chekhov Restaurant and Art Café Kommunalka are some of the most popular choices.

What are the top 5 best restaurants in St Petersburg?

Top 5 restaurants in St Petersburg include: Philibert Café, Ukrop Restaurant, Gloss Café, L'Europe Restaurant and Na Zdorovye.

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Two-day Tour of St Petersburg with Peterhof Palace & Boat Cruise

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• All admission fees as per program SKIP-THE-LINE
• Professional & friendly guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transport by air-conditioned car/minivan
• Bottled water
• Headsets to hear the guide clearly (for groups 6+)
• Entry/Admission - Peter and Paul Fortress
• Entry/Admission - The State Museum St. Isaac’s Cathedral
• Entry/Admission - Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
• Entry/Admission - Neva Embankments
• Entry/Admission - Park And Gardens of Peterhof
• Entry/Admission - Grand Peterhof Palace
• Entry/Admission - The State Hermitage Museum
• Guaranteed to skip the lines
• Pickup is available from any hotel in St. Petersburg within the city limits. Please, provide your hotel name/address at the booking, so we could arrange the pickup. The private guide will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby with a sign City Break Tours.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Sightseeing boat tour is only available in the summer season from April to October. In winter season, you will visit St Peter and Paul Fortress and the Cathedral instead.
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• Fearless504692 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Recommend this activity The service on the tour was exceptional. We were able to catch the sight of much more than expected. The museums require much time and power to discover. Definitely deserves second-time visit. The guide and driver were excellent. Read more Written November 15, 2023
• Guide800576 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 10/10 trip It was a 10 out of 10 experience. Wonderful sights and welcoming guide loaded with historical facts and useful information. They were always on time and took care of our needs. I will recommend this trip to my friends. Read more Written October 7, 2023
• Jet444008 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Smooth experience We learned the best parts of the city and got to see lots of historical sites. It was enough time at each museum to not get tired. The guide Marina was knowledgeable and entertaining. Read more Written July 29, 2023
• gegham_abra 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles My recommendations Wonderful tour in a wonderful city. My spouse and I spent 3 days in Saint Petersburg touring the palaces and museums. The guide arranged for us delicious lunches. This city we enjoyed more than Moscow people are more welcoming. Read more Written May 26, 2023
• mor1965 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour option Wonderful tour guide and excellent service starting from pickup at the hotel and ending up with great dining recommendations. Visited each museum in the program skipping lines like VIPs. Read more Written April 13, 2023
• _Q3448XY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Happy customer The weekend in St Peter went great thanks to this tour company. They arranged a private driver and a guide for us. All admissions were included to all museums so we didn’t have to worry about anything. We were very happy with the program and the guide. This is the tour we will recommend to our friends. Read more Written October 15, 2022
• Safari441476 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent arrangement This tour has really helped me and my family to travel Russia with comfort. We were picked up from our hotel in Moscow by a private car and got to the train station. The tickets to the train from Moscow to St Petersburg were already included. We only had to board the train. After about 3,5 hours we arrived to St Petersburg. The guide was waiting for us at the train station. From there we went for a city tour by a private car. Our driver and guide were excellent. We didn't have to worry about the tickets to the museums and entry times. All program was pre-arranged. In the evening they dropped us off at the train station to go back to Moscow. Upon arrival the driver was waiting for us at the train station. Thanks to the tour company for this amazing trip. Read more Written August 24, 2022
• Extraordinary521744 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour We had the nicest time in St Petersburg. Took a private tour with this company and had an excellent guide for just the two of us. We visited Hermitage and so many other places. The city is very beautiful and we learned a lot. The driver was very nice to us too. Company arranged lunches in different restaurants. Great to try local cuisine. Read more Written June 13, 2022
• 375musad 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cool We got to know the beautiful city of St Petersburg with guide Maria. She was just lovely and showed us main points of attraction and Russian culture. We also got to try some local food and made some souvenirs shopping. Thanks Maria! Read more Written May 20, 2022
• Navigator432316 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Reliable company I have been in contact with this company for almost 2 years while planning our trip to St Petersburg. Last year our cruise was canceled due to the pandemics and this year very unfortunately due to other significant events. I want to thank the reservation team for professionalism and nice treatment. I am looking forward to the next summer when hopefully we will be able to finally see your magnificent city. Read more Written March 7, 2022
• Carol H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles They are true professionals I signed up for City Break's two day tour of St. Petersburg, including the Fabergé Museum. The staff there gave very prompt and courteous replies by email to my questions and I was so looking forward to the visit at the end of April. Unfortunately due to unforeseen events causing a cancellation of the port stop there I had to ask for a refund. This was given instantly. I commend the staff there for their friendliness and outstanding professionalism. I hope to renew the booking when that is possible. Read more Written March 1, 2022
• Naif_mish 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptional Everything was excellent. Loved the city. It was a great experience organized and wonderful. For sure I will not hesitate to repeat this tour. Read more Written December 20, 2021
• laghari_am 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We will be back! We are in Russia for Euro 2020 and it is a great chance for us to see St Petersburg. This tour took us around the city we visited Hermitage and other attractions. There were barely any people in the museums but crowds in football fan zones. We had a guide called Olga and she was brilliant. The atmosphere of the city is vibrant it is a pity we cannot stay any longer. We will be back! Read more Written June 13, 2021
• 605stephanf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour! enjoyed every minute We had a wonderful trip to Russia and an amazing tour of St Petersburg in early February before the start of the pandemics. The guide for the 2 day tour (I forgot her name) was the best person to do this job . Personable, friendly and informative. She took us to the museums and palaces as well as to nice places for lunch. I was amazed by the Russian churches I have never seen that much gold in any other place. Thanks to the guide and the driver it was possible to see so much more than we could have seen on our own even in a week. BTW traveling in February was not as cold as I imagined. I would recommend this tour to anyone. Read more Written December 29, 2020
• nicoletravels01 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Professional and understanding I want to say thanks to City Break Tours for their professional and quick response. I had a shore excursion booked in St Petersburg with them and sadly had to cancel due to COVID-19. Once I sent them a message they replied with very kind words and proceeded with a full refund. I am looking forward to having a future tour with City Break when traveling is safe again. Read more Written December 24, 2020

Two-day Tour of St Petersburg with Peterhof Palace & Boat Cruise provided by City Break Tours St. Petersburg

12 Travel Tips for the Best City Break in Europe (With Must-See Destinations and Real-Life Examples)

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 15th March 2024

Categories Travel

Taking a city break in Europe is a great way to break the monotony of everyday life or add even more excitement to a long trip abroad.

To help you organise and enjoy the best european city break, here are twelve travel tips that i have personally tried and tested time and time again.

From how to pick the best city to visit in Europe to how to pack and how to plan your sightseeing specifically for city breaks, this blog post is full of useful and actionable information.

City breaks are my favourite way to travel and discover new destinations in Europe.

Give me a long weekend or three days mid-week (as long as I can get away from work, studies, and commitments) and you will see me happily exploring a new place and taking in all it has to offer in terms of historic sights, art galleries, and beautiful surroundings. Not forgetting delicious (and unusual!) local foods !

I have discovered that spending a couple or so days in a new city is just the right amount of time to get the feel of it. This way you can easily establish if this is a destination you would love to revisit time and time again or not at all.

A city break in Europe is also great for recharging your batteries both on a creative and emotional level. Then, once back home, it is so much easier to face everyday tasks head-on and life feels full of joy once again.

So, how to organise the best city break in Europe? What to consider in advance and how to avoid potential pitfalls? Today, I will share with you my top travel tips – distilled the hard way through trial and error. This way you won’t have to waste time and resources and make the same mistakes.

Instead, I hope to inspire you to book your next (or first!) European city break with confidence and have a wonderful time exploring a new destination either by yourself or with family and friends.

Have a look!

1. Pick a European City That Is Easy to Get To

A city break usually spans a long weekend, or three to four days max. Don’t waste precious time travelling long distances. Choose a destination that is easy to get to. My limit is a couple of hours by plane at most with the shortest possible transfer times to and from the airport. If travelling by car, then my maximum is three hours driving one way.

You want to be fresh and full of energy for city explorations. Not recovering for a day after a long flight or an endless driving trip.

I have found that smaller European cities just off the beaten track are usually the easiest to get to and have a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing. A case in point are:

• Verona , Pisa , and Treviso in Italy;
• Porto in Portugal;
• Poznan in Poland;
• Pula in Croatia ; and
• Salzburg in Austria.

All of them have an airport right next door and transfer times by public transport start from around 15 minutes.

If you would rather spend your city break in a larger European city, then these destinations have an adjacent airport and are served by flights from all over Europe and beyond:

• Edinburgh in Scotland;
• Lisbon in Portugal;
• Milan , Naples , Rome , and Venice in Italy; and
• Sofia in Bulgaria.

Best Advice:

If you can, pick an early morning flight to get there and an evening flight to return. This will maximise your sunlight hours to spend in the European city of your choice. If driving, avoid rush hours and use a GPS app to advise you of any potential shorter routes along the way.

Most importantly, if you live in Europe (or are spending a long vacation here), you don’t even have to travel abroad for a great city break. Getting to know the sights and attractions of the cities in the European country where you are can fill up many weekends and days off with exciting things to do.

Real-Life Example:

My last solo city break abroad was to Perugia in Central Italy. One of the major reasons I picked it (beyond its amazing history, architecture, and art) was the ease of getting there. Perugia’s small airport is only half an hour away by bus from the city’s historic centre. No time wasted in waiting around and transfers!

My family’s most recent domestic city break was to Canterbury . Just down the road from us in the English county of Kent , this Cathedral city provides a long list of sights to enjoy ticking off over a couple of days.

Learn More:

Here are some other great destinations for city breaks in Europe which are quick and easy to reach from the nearest airport(s): Bologna , Braga , Brescia , Padua , and Varna .

And here are 11 airports in Northern Italy to choose from.

2. Travel with People You Can Rely On (Or Go by Yourself!) for the Best European City Break

I am a firm believer in the saying that it’s better to be alone than to be in bad company. Especially when you travel!

Far from home, you want to be with people you can rely on. Not someone whose moods leave you feeling drained and anxious. You want to enjoy your city break in Europe and this is best done with a person who has your best interests at heart and with whom you can work together to come up with an itinerary that suits both of you in the best possible way.

This could be a friend, a relative, or a partner. Someone who has your back! Sometimes, it is not easy to have such a person in our life. Don’t let this stop you from exploring Europe and its cities. Travelling solo has never been easier and this way you only have yourself to make happy when exploring a new destination.

If you have someone in mind as a travel buddy, first take a day trip with them to a nearby city to make sure that you click on the road. This will help you establish if you like spending time in each other’s company and if your sightseeing interests align. Then you can progress to longer city breaks anywhere in Europe.

When travelling with another person, you don’t have to spend the whole city break attached by the hip. A little independent exploring and then meeting up for lunch or dinner will give you lots of space to enjoy your own interests while providing you with the security of being in a foreign place with someone you are close to.

I used to travel a lot by myself in my 20s. I loved it! It made me feel so independent and it built up my resilience. One of the major mental barriers I had to overcome at the time was being able to have a coffee or a meal by myself. The first few times, I was worried that people would find me strange for sitting by myself. Then, I realised that everyone was too busy with their coffees and meals to actually be bothered about what I was doing.

Nowadays, I travel mostly with my husband and our child. After trial and error, we established that to make everybody happy, we need to do things that interest each one of us. A great city break in Europe for us equals a visit to a museum or art gallery for me, something exciting like an underground tour or a hidden historic corner for my husband, and a playground, a boat trip, a cable car, or something similarly fun for our child.

This makes each day varied and full of surprises. Plus, we all agree that sampling the local foods is a must no matter the city!

3. Pack a Small Bag and Wear Your Most Comfortable Shoes to Enjoy Your City Break in Europe

Don’t bother lugging a large suitcase! A city break is three to four days long and you don’t want to be slowed down by extra luggage. Pack light taking just what you will need for the city and the season. My non-negotiables are:

• my most comfortable shoes that I can walk in for miles;
• a small hygiene kit with things like dental floss and solid deodorant. I put it all in an airport-approved see-through bag like this one which saves me time at the security check;
• underclothing and nightwear – for some reason, my socks always have to match the season, so a Christmas city break calls for socks with Christmas puddings and mugs of hot chocolate on them;
• a tiny capsule wardrobe of a pair of jeans, one pair of trousers, and four tops. Depending on the city and the season, I may pack a couple of dresses instead of one pair of trousers and two tops.
• a protective/warm layer – no matter the season, especially, after freezing on a summer city break when it rained all the time and I hadn’t brought a jacket. So, in winter, this means a warm hat, scarf, and gloves in addition to a warm, comfortable jacket. In summer, this means a soft wrap or a small cardigan I can easily whip out when needed. In spring and autumn, I bring a light waterproof jacket.

You may also want to pack a nice outfit if you are planning to go out in the evening. I don’t do it anymore, as I am usually too tired after a day of active sightseeing and long stretches of walking. So, my focus is entirely on comfort and bringing the smallest number of items while feeling fresh and smelling nice every day of my city break.

I really upped my packing game after getting an inexpensive cabin bag that fits under the seat. It has just the right amount of space for all my non-negotiable items and doesn’t allow me to add unnecessary things that I think I might use but I never do. Travelling light has never felt so good!

There is always a great selection of cabin bags on Amazon.

For a pre-Christmas two-night city break to Poznan in Poland, I used three winter dresses coupled with thermal tights and leggings. I get most of my dresses from a British brand called Bonmarche . It caters to women of all sizes and has these very soft and warm winter dresses which don’t crinkle and are very comfortable.

It all fitted nicely in my fish-mouth daypack and this was the lightest and easiest city break I have ever taken in Europe.

4. Have a Shortlist of What You Want to See and Do During Your City Break in Europe

I love being spontaneous when I travel, however, for a successful European city break, I need to know in advance what I am going to do and see. At least, in general terms. After all, if you are going to spend only a couple of days or so in a rich in sights city, you don’t want to be wasting precious hours ambling around.

Plus, many of the major landmarks in world-famous cities like London, Paris, and Florence are best booked in advance to avoid long waits on the day or disappointment if all tickets get sold out. So a bit of prior planning is always helpful and can be the difference between a great city break and a travel letdown.

To book tickets and guided tours in advance, you can either go to the website of the sight you want to visit or to the big ticket- and tour-selling platforms GetYourGuide , Viator , and Tiqets .

For ideas about what to see in a new for me city, I always check the official website of the local tourist office. Some European cities have wonderful sites full of information and tips. And then others don’t. Still, I always start my research from the city’s official website.

My next step is to have a look at the websites of the specific sights I want to visit. I check opening times, the price of tickets, and potential discounts. Then I use Google Maps to check the sights’ precise locations in the city centre and suburbs and how to get to them.

This helps me to start coming up with a rough itinerary for my visit so that I know in advance which major landmarks I want to visit and approximately in what order. I never do a strict hour-by-hour plan and I leave some space for improvisation. This is handy as often on the day I may want to spend longer at a particular sight or I come across a hidden gem during my explorations of the city.

As part of my research, I may also get a book or two on the history and art of my destination. Especially, if it is a place I had never been to before. This way, I feel I connect better to it and get to know it through its historic events and the people that built it.

When we were getting ready for our visit to Braga in Portugal last year, I found that the best information online was provided by a pair of local travel bloggers. This was great for me as it gave me a chance to brush up on my Portuguese. However, it can be really annoying if there isn’t enough good quality information online in the language(s) that you speak about the European city you are about to visit for a weekend break.

In such cases, I tend to use Google Translate to get the gist of the information published by local websites. It can be more time-consuming but it gives me local insight and this is always very valuable.

5. Decide What’s a Priority for You in Terms of Accommodation When You Take a City Break in Europe

When booking accommodation for a city break in Europe, I consider three things:

• Distance – The closer the hotel is to the sights I want to see, the better. Walking distance is best! For example, I loved it when we stayed in a small hotel an arm’s length away from St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium. In the morning, I could head straight there without wasting time navigating the city.
• Comfort – Is it a place where I will feel comfortable and safe? Comfort means different things to different people. In a nutshell for me, it translates to peace and quiet, a good night’s sleep, clean premises, a nice bathroom, and a safe environment.
• Price – A city break for me is mostly spent outside, sightseeing and exploring everything the destination has to offer. As such, as long as the accommodation is comfortable and safe, I look for good value options, and any savings I can make, I put towards my next city break in Europe.

It is not always easy to find the best ratio between these three things, so I spend up to an hour reading online reviews left by actual guests, looking at maps to determine optimum locations and itineraries, and checking if there are any seasonal offers on Booking.com .

To maximise sightseeing time, I would pay more for a particularly well-located hotel but wouldn’t spend more for facilities like an onsite gym and sauna, for example. It’s such a short stay, anyway, that I don’t feel I will make good use of them, so they are not a priority. So, make sure that you know your own priorities and book your city break accommodation based on them.

Nowadays, there are many different types of accommodation to book for a truly unforgettable city break. From boutique hotels and quirky guest houses to hostels, the choice is staggering. In some European cities, you can even stay in monasteries, palaces, and even caves.

Picking the right accommodation can be quite a harrowing task. You don’t want to simply book the first available place. At the same time, you don’t want to spend days researching for a short stay of two or three nights.

This is where having clear priorities will come in very handy. Knowing what exactly you can’t compromise on and what you can be flexible about will help you quickly weed out all the unsuitable options.

It’s only natural to make a few mistakes when booking accommodation for a city break in Europe. Especially, when you first start enjoying short trips to exciting places here. Believe me, I have made them all! Once I booked a place that was too far from the historic centre of Verona . So, we had to rely on a bus instead of simply walking. Another time, I spent extra on a hotel with a spa in Barcelona and then when I used it I was constantly worrying about getting behind on my sightseeing list.

Being able to narrow down what’s important for me in terms of the perfect city break accommodation made all the difference. Knowing what’s non-negotiable for me and what I can be flexible about really speeds up my research and helps me avoid making the same mistakes time and time again.

6. Find Out in Advance How You Are Going to Get Around the European City You Want to Visit

Knowing how you are going to get from the airport/train station to your accommodation can make all the difference between having a great start to your European city break or not. The same applies to finding out before you travel how you are going to navigate your destination.

Is there a well-developed network of public buses, trams, and/or a metro? How much do tickets cost and is it better to invest in a daily pass? Are the sights you want to visit close to one another?

The answers to all these questions will help you feel more at ease in an otherwise unknown city. They will also streamline getting to your accommodation and exploring around. Finally, this information will give you some sense of direction and security which is always important when you travel.

Large cities like London and Barcelona offer several different ways to get around – from a well-developed public transport system to taxis and other types of private transport. The official websites of the tourist boards of such cities will provide up-to-date extensive details about how to navigate them.

Many historic cities in Europe have tightly built old towns with narrow streets which are closed to traffic. Google Maps is an excellent tool to explore in advance the urban fabric of destinations you are planning to visit. Spending a few minutes working out which turns to take to reach a particular sight or your hotel on foot can save you valuable time during your actual visit.

To make your European city break more exciting, use unusual forms of local transport. This could be a funicular going up a steep incline as in Salzburg in Austria or the town of Como in Italy. It could be a historic tram as in Porto and Lisbon in Portugal . Or it could be a cable car opening splendid panoramic views as in Barcelona and London.

I love visiting cities with centuries of history. Most of them are best explored on foot. A case in point is the aforementioned Perugia – an Italian hilltop city where many old streets are made of steep, irregular steps. Knowing in advance that I would have to walk everywhere, helped me prepare an itinerary that took me around the local sights in a logical sequence. This minimised long stretches of effort and avoided returning to the same corners of the city time and time again.

I am also a big fan of all sorts of funiculars, cable cars, and trams. Anything, really, that moves and provides an authentic and fun experience. I loved the water-powered funicular serving the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte near the Portuguese city of Braga . It’s the oldest one of its type in the world.

Boat tours in cities with a shoreline are another experience I have to have. Aveiro in Portugal , Salzburg in Austria, London and Chester in England are great from this point of view.

Here is how to navigate Venice’s train stations , as well as how to get to Padua , Lake Como , and Lake Garda in Italy. Most posts on my blog also contain an essential travel guide with specific information on how to get to and navigate the given destination.

7. Always Consider Your Safety When You Take a City Break in Europe

Safety is my number one priority when I book a city break in Europe.

Unfortunately, I have had first-hand experience with what it is to be mugged. I was lucky at the time that suddenly a group of people walked past, so my mugger who had just managed to tear my bag off my shoulder ran off dropping my bag in the process. While my phone, cards, passport, and other valuables scattered all over the floor at least I didn’t lose anything but my love for that particular European destination.

Since then I always try to have better situational awareness. For example, if someone walks too close behind me, I would rather stop, look over my shoulder to see the person, and even step away and let them pass. When I travel, I always wear a cross-body bag, as shoulder bags are easier to snatch. And I don’t feel socially preoccupied crossing the street if I see a group of people loitering ahead of me or if someone behind me starts to give me off signals.

It pays to listen to your gut and to avoid situations that can escalate quickly. For example, these days, if I am travelling by myself, I prefer to arrive during the day. This way, I can reach my accommodation and check in while it’s still light. This gives me peace of mind which is especially important when you are visiting a place for the first time.

Some insurance providers allow you to register expensive items such as digital cameras and mobile phones under your home contents insurance and then protect them even when you take them abroad. Insurance, in principle, is very important as you never know what may happen. Being covered for the different eventualities only adds to your peace of mind.

The most important travel safety tip I can share with you is that it’s OK not to be friendly. Nowadays, we are often conditioned to be very kind and accommodating. I am all for being polite but sudden infringers of my personal space, people trying to have an in-depth conversation with me five minutes after we met, or people stopping me on the street asking random questions don’t get a reply from me. In such cases, I keep walking and keep not engaging.

Personal safety is so much more than being streetsmart. It applies to a large variety of situations – from how easy your hotel room door is to lock and unlock to carefully choosing the type of tours and sights you want to enjoy when travelling.

I had a really horrible experience climbing up the bell tower in an otherwise beautiful city in Europe. Anywhere I go, I love climbing to a high spot in the city to enjoy the panoramic views. It could be a bell tower, a clock tower, a medieval tower, anything really to give me that high of seeing the world from above.

This particular bell tower was very tall and (I soon realised) had very narrow and very worn-out wooden steps with huge gaps between them. I was afraid that one misstep and I would plunge through a gap. The steps were also very high, so I had to sort of pull myself up on the railing.

I finally reached the last flight of steps – a vertical ladder sort of standing above the abyss and leading to the bell tower’s top platform which you accessed through a trap door in the floor. Just as I was pulling myself up, someone shut closed the trap door above me. I was in darkness, unable to really see the way up but also frozen to the spot and unable to go down. Finally, I managed to get myself together and holding on for dear life, I reached the trap door and pushed it open.

There was a tourist on the other side who gaily told me that she had shut the trap door closed to see how it worked. Unfortunately, my deeply instilled social manners stopped me from telling her what I thought of her actions. On the way down, the same tourist said to a group of people who were just starting to climb the perilous steps: ‘Oh, be aware of the broken step halfway through!’ to only add with glee a second later ‘I’m just kidding!’.

This story taught me two things – that if a landmark or a sight doesn’t feel safe no matter how historic and beautiful it may be, just stay away. The second is that sometimes people can act really selfishly and to rely on the goodwill of someone else is not always realistic.

Have a look at my travel safety tips distilling what I have learned first-hand over decades of travelling solo.

8. Try the Local Food During Your European City Break

Tasting new foods is one of the great delights of taking a city break in Europe. Every city here – no matter how big or small – has its local delicacies. This could be torta al testo – flatbread traditionally stuffed with sausage and greens – in Perugia in Italy, potatoes with cottage cheese and spring onions in Poznan in Poland, or bratwurst and sauerkraut in Garmish-Partenkirchen in Germany.

Some things will appeal to you (hello, tibias de Braga ), others you won’t be able to stomach (bye, ovos moles ). The important thing is to be adventurous, experiment with new tastes, and learn about culinary traditions. Delving into them, usually, reveals the best local stories.

Before you head out on your European city break, make a shortlist of the local dishes you would like to sample. Don’t be obsessive or competitive about it, though! For example, you don’t have to go to the most expensive or the best-reviewed restaurant in town to eat the most exclusive delicacies. Instead, try to find a small eatery popular with the locals. Observing their interactions while you tuck into a hearty meal is a major part of the experience.

Check to see what’s in season and fill up your plate with fresh food and seasonal delicacies. In Italy, this could be purple artichokes in Venice and white asparagus in Bassano del Grappa in spring. It could be gallette des rois in January and octopus in June in France. Or it could be chanterelles in September and October in Germany.

Time your European city break to coincide with a food festival or a renowned food market. This way you will be able to taste fresh produce and local recipes many of which may have centuries of history behind them.

In Northern Italy, there is a small village with medieval roots and ancient mills built over the gushing waters of a river. Called Borghetto sul Mincio , the village has a renowned local speciality – tortellini nodo d’amore – handmade pasta parcels stuffed with a variety of delicious fillings. The local legend states that the tortellini’s shape was inspired by the knotted handkerchief of a beautiful river nymph who fell in love with a mortal.

Now, just hearing the premise of this story, don’t you already feel like you have to travel there and experience this surely delicious food for yourself? Thankfully, Borghetto sul Mincio is very close to Verona which in itself makes for a wonderful Italian city break!

Tuck into my food blog posts and don’t miss the ones dedicated to polenta in Italy , the Italian breakfast foods , and the Portuguese desserts and pastries .

9. Be Mindful of How Much You Spend on Your City Break in Europe

A city break in Europe doesn’t have to break the bank. Instead, it could be a nice little trip that fires up your inner spark and helps you break out of the monotony of life. For this, no crazy spending is needed. A visit to a must-see museum, a small indulgence with a portion of delicious local food, and a purchase of a lovely local craft are all experiences that travel memories are made of. Yet, they don’t need to cost the earth and their cost doesn’t equal their value.

Booking a European city break already involves a lot of expenses – transport, accommodation, and meals every day. So, it pays to be mindful of how much you spend. Local sights can often be visited with a combined ticket. A water bottle filled for free will save you lots of cash in the long run. A multi-day transport card will guarantee you cheaper journeys.

Small savings quickly add up and you can always put the money towards another city break further down the line.

Off-season travel to popular destinations in Europe often comes with the benefit of savings – from cheaper flights to cheaper hotel rooms.

Many European cities offer a single-price pass giving you free and/or discounted access to a multitude of local sights (and often public transport). Verona , Lisbon , and Barcelona are a case in point.

And if you want to get the most for your buck, then head to a cheaper destination. Cities like the Bulgarian capital Sofia and Sibenik in Croatia have a lot to offer in terms of history, art, and beautiful surroundings for a fraction of the price of a city break in London.

I work very hard for my money and over the last few years have become increasingly careful in how I spend it. Small purchases when abroad add up very quickly. Just because something is very inexpensive back home, it doesn’t mean that it will cost next to nothing in another European country. And vice-versa!

The price of paracetamol in England, for example, is negligible. In Italy, it always feels like it’s ten times more expensive. As someone who often suffers from headaches, I make sure that I pack some paracetamol when I head to Italy. On the other hand, coffee in Italy is not only inexpensive but also of excellent quality. In England , it often is quite watery and can cost up to three or even four times more.

While such a mindset may come across as a bit tight, the savings, in the long run, help me enjoy more opportunities to travel. And as someone who loves travelling and loves taking city breaks, it may be penny-pinching but it pays off.

10. Only Buy Locally Produced Souvenirs and Crafts on Your European City Break

Buying a small memento to take home with you is one of the best things to do when you are enjoying a city break in Europe. Souvenir shops abound in all cities here. Especially, in those that have become worldwide famous destinations.

For the full authentic experience, however, make sure that you buy only souvenirs and gifts that have been made locally. This way you will be supporting the local arts and crafts instead of sponsoring the import business that churns mass-produced tacky items by the kilo.

Find out what local crafts are typical for the European city you are visiting. It could be traditional Tyrolean slippers called doggln in Innsbruck, Murano glass or Burano lace in Venice , gold filigree Viana hearts in Portugal , or love spoons in Wales . It feels special to buy something that has been made with love by an artisan keeping alive centuries-old traditions.

Italy is particularly great to visit on a city break with artisan shopping in mind. In Venice, for example, you can get Venetian marionettes by  L’Isola di Pinocchio , handmade beaded jewellery by  Venetian Dreams by Marissa Convento , and even acqua di melissa  (lemon-balm water) from the  monastic shop  of the Order of the Discalced Carmelites.

One of my favourite things to ever buy in Italy was a hand-woven basket from this artisanal basketmaker in a town near Verona. There was something so authentic and organic in the act of buying an item made from start to finish by hand – from the collecting of just the right type of branches to weaving them one by one into the shape of a basket.

Another thing I love to shop for is ceramics. It seems every country in Europe has its own style of ceramics with different colours and patterns telling different stories. It’s interesting how such a simple raw material as clay has produced such an enormous variety of designs depending on the cultural affinities of each nation. Italy, Bulgaria, and Poland are great city break destinations for any ceramics lover out there.

11. Don’t Expect to See It All in One Short Visit to a City in Europe

A city break is by default short and ideally, sweet. In a small number of days, you will want to squeeze in some sightseeing, a few excellent meals, a couple of unique experiences, and a special moment or two. In order to complete this and still feel energised rather than depleted in the end, don’t approach a city break in Europe with expectations that are too high.

For example, don’t expect to see all the sights of a particular city and then on top to try all its famous restaurants. Or don’t expect to be able to crisscross every single museum and see every masterpiece that your chosen European city has. This is a recipe for exhaustion and completely blurred memories.

Instead, be clear with yourself about what you want to focus on and shelve away the disappointment (typical for perfectionists like myself) that you won’t be able to get to fully know a city in three days. This mental clarity will make your European city break so much more enjoyable.

Think about a city break as an appetising introduction to a city. A few days are more than enough to get an idea if a certain city appeals to you and if you would like to visit it again in the future.

Many European cities are made for more than one city break and can be experienced in completely different ways depending on who you visit them with or what you decide to focus on when you are there. Venice in Italy, Vienna in Austria, and Lisbon in Portugal are a case in point.

So, take it easy! Instead of rushing madly around trying to cram it all in, just make sure that you enjoy every moment as it presents itself to you.

Alternatively, book a break in a small city just off the beaten track. For example, Rouen in France, Rovereto in Italy, Pula in Croatia , and Innsbruck in Austria. Compact, walkable, and with many of their sights right next to one another, they are quicker and easier to get to know in some depth over a couple of days.

They may not be as flashy or well-known as the large European capitals but still have a lot to offer and an authentic spirit. Even after a short amount of time spent in each, you will feel like you’ve gotten to know them rather than simply taking a small bite off everything they have to offer.

When I travel by myself, I am used to rushing around and trying to do it all and see it all in a couple of days. With my family, however, I need to be mindful of my husband’s and child’s interests and speed of sightseeing. So, our city breaks together have a much slower pace but at the same time have a stronger focus.

When we went to Poznan for the weekend right before last Christmas, we knew we wouldn’t be able to see absolutely everything that this exciting city in Poland has to offer. So, we decided to focus on having lovely festive experiences and making memories as a family. As such, we spent time at Poznan’s large Christmas markets, saw the mayor switch on the lights of a huge Christmas tree, ate delicious local food, and were euphoric when it began to snow.

We still popped into a few museums (one of them dedicated to the local delicacy – a particular type of croissant), enjoyed a walk in Palmiarnia (a huge glasshouse filled with vegetation from all around the world), and visited the cathedral which is Poland’s oldest. However, we didn’t have time to see the city’s numerous lakes or spend a lot of time in the art gallery. Instead, we just popped in to see Poland’s only painting by Monet and headed out to enjoy a portion of bigos at the nearby Christmas market.

We had a wonderful time and got back to England in a great festive mood. In our minds, we had decided that one day we should return to Poznan as it’s a city that we love to know more about.

12. Yet, Make Sure That You Get Under the Skin of the European City You Have Chosen to Visit

No matter how short your European city break may be, it is the perfect opportunity to get under a destination’s skin and have at least one truly memorable experience. This could be seeing a painting that speaks to you, losing yourself in a labyrinth of cobbled streets flanked by houses that haven’t changed much since the Middle Ages, or spending the evening in a small club where the locals go to enjoy live music.

Whatever rocks your boat – art, history, good food, meeting new people, delving into curious local stories, coming across a hidden gem, or simply spending a sweet moment looking at a splendid panoramic view – make sure that you experience it during your city break in Europe.

It could be something that you have planned in advance, like a museum visit, for example. Or it could be something that happens spontaneously then and there, like the feeling that you are on top of the world when climbing (safely!) a centuries-old bell tower. Whatever it is, it will allow you to connect to a new city on a personal level and will make your trip to it a memory to bring you joy and comfort for many years.

The best tip I can give you for getting under a city’s skin is to not be afraid to be spontaneous every now and then. To head down a new street, to decide on the spur of the moment to visit a sight that was not in your original plan, to taste new food, to ask a local for recommendations.

As with all good things in life, great travel experiences happen when you least expect them.

During my city break in Perugia , I really wanted to see the small Chapel of San Severo where a fresco by the famous Renaissance painter Raphael is preserved. When I found the chapel in the labyrinthine historic centre, it had just closed for the traditional riposo – the Italian lunch break. I had to busy myself with other things and then return in the afternoon to see it.

I considered skipping it altogether but I am glad I didn’t. The fresco was beautiful to see but above all, I got chatting with the girl in the ticket office and off-hand she recommended the Abbey of San Pietro as a must-see in Perugia.

Standing on the edges of the historic centre, the abbey was a brisk 20-minute walk away. Making the effort to get there was worth it. The abbey is full of outstanding works of art and preserves some of Perugia’s most curious local stories. Visiting it made me feel like I truly touched the essence of this city in Central Italy and got to know it on a deeper level beyond its major sights.

In Conclusion

Here you have them – my twelve travel tips for the best city break in Europe! I hope that you will make the most of them.

European city breaks are an exciting way to get to know new places here. They last a short number of days. They focus on a particular city and they give you a chance to explore what it offers as well as leave space for spontaneity. All these new experiences help to break the monotony of everyday life and to make you feel full of energy, curiosity, and resolve again. And that’s truly worth it!

So, pick a new destination in Europe and just go for it. It doesn’t have to cost the earth and you never know what you are going to see and learn during your time there.

Have a great European city break no matter which part of the continent you decide to head to !

Let travel – albeit for a few short days – bring you joy and make your heart beat with excitement, travel tools, get ready for your best city break in europe.

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Sunday 23rd of April 2023

Where is the picture taken in 3. Pack a Small Bag?

Monday 24th of April 2023

This is the Town Hall in Poznan - the fifth-largest city in Poland. It's quite splendid, isn't it? It's considered one of the most beautiful Italianate Renaissance buildings north of the Alps as it was remodelled by an Italian architect in the 16th century. Best wishes,

Thank you Rossi for your excellent blog/post! I found your site researching my last trip, signed up for notifications, and now this post is exactly what I was looking for as I was actually researching Braga for a post cruise stay in Portugal. Will also look at Averio now! Keep up the travelling and good writing!

Thank you, Jane! I appreciate your kind words! Enjoy Portugal. It has so much to offer. Near Braga there are several other places to look into - from Guimaraes to Barcelos and Viana do Castelo and further down towards Lisbon, don't miss Coimbra if you have a chance. Best wishes,

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City break: 5 nights in Mexico City

6 days from $4,595pp

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Soar over the UNESCO-listed archaeological zone of Teotihuacán in a hot air balloon.

Discover the surrounding colonial cities of Cuernavaca and Taxco.

Uncover the history behind the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.

Taste some of the wonderful street food on offer.

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Upon arrival at Mexico City Airport, meet your driver who will transfer you to your hotel, located in Mexico City's upmarket Polanco district, close to some of the city's best restaurants, boutiques and museums. You will have the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Spend today exploring the city with your private guide, including a visit to the Anthropological Museum with its stunning collection of sculptures. This evening, you will enjoy a food tour as part of a small group. You will visit several small taco stands and shops known to locals as the place to eat. Your guide will explain how these tasty snacks became such an integral part of Mexican culture and the difference between ingredients and styles, which means no two tacos are the same.

This morning you will have an early start, however this will be rewarded with a real once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing the Teotihuacán pyramids, commonly known as the City of Gods, from the sky. Traveling by hot air balloon really is the best way to appreciate the impressive scale and grandeur of the ancient site. You will also have a chance to walk around the Teotihuacán pyramids on foot after. You will have the rest of the day at leisure.

Traveling with your private chauffeur-guide, you will leave Mexico City and head for Cuernavaca, just 1½ hours drive away. This beautiful colonial city dates back some 3,200 years and has some stunning architecture and archaeology to explore. You will then travel on to the charming town of Taxco approximately an hour and a half from Cuernavaca.

Today your private guide will take you to the famous Xochimilco Floating Gardens. This is a very popular activity with the locals at the weekend when floating mariachis and food vendors punt alongside extended families and tourists out to enjoy a day in this ancient manner. You will then travel to Coyoacán and visit the Frida Kahlo Museum.

Say goodbye to Mexico City today as you depart by private car for the airport.

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Hong Kong residents make 1.76 million outbound trips over Easter break as mainland China tours surge in popularity

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Sunday, 07 Apr 2024

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Cross-border tours to Guangdong, Fujian and Guizhou provinces in mainland China have gained in popularity among Hong Kong residents who made nearly 1.76 million outbound trips over the Easter break.

The number of Hongkongers who headed out of the city over the four-day holiday from Friday to Monday dwarfed the 400,000 or so inbound trips made by mainland visitors and other tourists , Immigration Department figures showed.

About 1.51 million, or 86 per cent, of the outbound trips by residents were made using the eight land crossings for passengers including Lo Wu, the high-speed rail link and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

City tour agencies said on Tuesday that they had noticed a surge in the popularity of mainland destinations. Steve Huen Kwok-chuen, the executive director of EGL Tours, said the number of residents who joined the company’s cross-border tours tripled compared with last Easter.

“We have seen a ‘China fever’ among Hong Kong tourists after the coronavirus pandemic,” he said. “The number of Hongkongers opting for mainland destinations has surged, encompassing not only the Greater Bay Area but various places across mainland China.”

The bay area refers to the central government’s scheme to link Hong Kong, Macau and nine cities in neighbouring Guangdong into an integrated economic and business hub.

Huen said the most sought-after mainland destinations included bay area cities such as Foshan, Dongguan and Huizhou, while Sichuan, Yunnan, Beijing, Shanghai and Qingdao, among others, had also gained in popularity.

About 30 tours, each made up of 25 to 35 people, departed daily for the mainland over the four-day break, he said.

The operator also introduced new tours this year, taking tourists to see flowers in Wuhan and the Three Gorges reservoir area.

Hongkongers make 1.5 million outbound trips in first 3 days of Easter break

Vicky Tsim, who manages tour guides at travel agency Yummy Holiday, said more than 300 mainland-bound tours left from five checkpoints over the holiday, double last year’s number. Each tour had 30 to 40 members from Hong Kong.

She said tours to Guangdong cities accounted for about 80 per cent of all the ones to the mainland, and the most popular destinations included Guangzhou and Huizhou.

About 20 tours each went to Fujian province and Guilin city, a dozen to Guizhou, and nearly 20 to the Three Gorges reservoir region that stretches along the Yangtze River.

She said the company also organised three to four trips with a dozen Hongkongers each to the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

Tsim attributed the surge in popularity of such tours to convenient transport, improved hotel facilities and lower prices across the border, as well as Hongkongers’ better understanding of the mainland.

Hong Kong recorded about 1.56 million outbound trips by residents over the four-day Easter holiday in 2018, before the coronavirus crisis, and around 617,000 inbound trips by mainlanders and other visitors.

The trend of Hongkongers to north to spend the Easter break this year left city tourism operators and restaurants complaining of sluggish business and calling for more support.

11 million people visit Hong Kong in first quarter, more than double 2023 number

Kelvin Yau Kam-wing, honorary chairman of trade body the Institute of Dining Professionals, said business in the catering sector dropped 20 to 30 per cent compared with the same period in previous years.

He said those who travelled elsewhere had stronger consumption power than those who remained in the city.

Yau appealed to the government to offer more support, such as more consumption vouchers to be used during holidays or in the evenings.

“Many residents think products and services are cheaper and better across the border than in Hong Kong, while we are losing our advantages,” he told a radio programme on Tuesday. “We must think of ways to maintain Hong Kong’s status as a gourmet paradise.”

Leung Fong-yuen, chairwoman of the Federation of Hong Kong Trade Unions in Tourism, highlighted on the same programme that Easter was not a public holiday on the mainland.

She said she expected that the number of visitors during the Labour Day “golden week” holiday next month would better reflect the city’s tourism position.

Hong Kong malls offer free parking as 541,000 people leave city for Easter break

Assistant professor Johnson Chan Chung-shing of the Chinese University of Hong Kong attributed the trend to the improved transport infrastructure that made trips to Shenzhen and other mainland bay area cities easier.

“The shift may reflect a broader trend of Hong Kong residents seeking travel experiences and exploring destinations outside the city,” he said.

“This trend may continue beyond the current economic cycle as preferences and behaviour evolve, which could lead to a sustained northbound shift, especially during long weekends or holiday breaks.”

Chan stressed the need for policymakers to closely monitor changes in travel patterns and consumer behaviour so they could better tackle the problem.

He said strategies to promote domestic tourism and support city businesses, as well the diversification of city attractions, could help make the city more appealing to different groups of people.

Additional reporting by Kahon Chan

More from South China Morning Post:

• Hong Kong welcomes more than 11 million visitors in first quarter, more than double last year’s figure
• Will Hong Kong’s new Octopus card be a ‘game changer’ for travellers to mainland China?
• China’s relaxed entry rules bring more travel, but would-be tourists wary of remaining barriers
• Hong Kong won’t draw back tourists with clichéd attractions. They go to places to experience what locals enjoy
• Hong Kong shopping centres offer free parking for first time in 20 years as 541,000 people leave city on second day of Easter break

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app . Copyright 2024.

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Getting The Most Out Of A Short Zurich City Break

Last year, I worked for a travel company that had its Head Quarters located in Switzerland.  It happened, that I was asked twice to hop on a plane for a very short Zurich city break . This was a fantastic perk, but, as this was a work trip, my time exploring the city was always cut short. BUGGER!

BUT in the few visits that I’ve been there, I have seen and experienced a bit of Zurich.

Do you have plans to travel to Zurich too but only have time, let’s say 1 day in Zurich? Perfect, then you may want to read on.

*Side Note: I’m aware “Zürich” is written with an Umlaut, but to make my post more user and search-friendly, I will refer to the city in my post as “Zurich”.*

Table of Contents

Arrival, First Impressions & What To Expect

Most cities in Switzerland are fairly small and easily manageable in terms of sightseeing. Zurich makes no exception. It’s a very picturesque spot surrounded by the Alps with a refreshing charm.  It feels like you’ve stepped into a different world once you get off a 2h flight from London. The pace of life is much slower in Zurich and its calm nature immediately hugs you a warm welcome.

The city is handsomely small and the centre can easily be seen in a few hours. Everything is safe and walkable. It’s a stark contrast to London where most of your time is taken up with travel that equals a world tour. Zurich is a city of short distances. My journey from the terminal building to my desk at the office located right at Lake Zurich took me 30 minutes.

The journey was comfortable and you’ll notice the Swiss value high-quality trains. I got the impression that the quality of life is extremely high: the streets are impeccably neat, the houses have beautiful facades and people are very happy and friendly. A stroll along the city centre makes it very obvious, that this is a culturally rich and affluent city that has a strong economy and attracts a lot of international businesses.

Zurich is located in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. It is the country’s second-largest city and very affluent.

The Bahnhofstrasse is plastered with designer shops. People cycle or walk which all contributes to a healthier work-life balance. All of this sounds amazing and thriving, however, it’s a different picture come 6 pm. Zurich’s energies slow down dramatically after work hours and the centre is dead.

Living in such a high-quality city comes at a price and the tag is hefty! Switzerland is known for its quality of life and higher wages. This comes with a notorious nature for extensive living costs, so be prepared! You may get a shock if your lunch amounts to £30 per person, but it’s completely normal in Zurich.

Food in Zurich

When you travel to Zurich, you’ll see that it has a superb dining scene. What would a trip to Switzerland be without the national classic Cheese Fondue? But there are other cultural cuisines, which are worth exploring. On all my trips, I never ate badly in Zurich.

Thanks to work expenses, I treated myself to a typical Swiss dinner at Le Dézaley for Cheese Fondue. On another night, I discovered Australian cuisine at Outback Lodge. The dining scene is a diverse mix of cultures and quality. If you’re like me and are adventurous with food, you will definitely venture into new culinary territory.

Here are my recommendations:

Lunch Options in Zurich

££ Puro or Milchbar (Paradeplatz)

Both are lovely bistro-style restaurants and offer healthy and quick lunch options. There are salads on the go or you can also sit down for lunch. The menu changes quite often but you’ll always find a mix of healthy meals teamed up with local cuisine. Plus a safe Italian option (pasta mostly). Lunch comes around £30-50 for starter/main/dessert

£ Bakery Jung (Paradeplatz West) has some very nice German sandwiches. Think seeded sourdough bread filled with salad and brie. Absolutely delicious! You can also order freshly pressed orange juice and buy typical German pastries. Sandwich and juice come £15, pastries around £5.

If you fancy some quick and easy fast food, B.Good (Old Town, £) might be the place for you. They serve the usual sweet potato or chunky fries alongside build-your-own-burgers. It’s usually pretty busy around lunch but luckily there’s a high turnover so you don’t have to wait too long for a seat. Your lunch will cost around £16.

Dinner Time: Swiss or International Cuisine

A typical Swiss restaurant is Zunfthaus zur Zimmerleuten (Old Town, Limmat Ufer, £££). Here they serve Rösti, Cordon Bleu, Schnitzel, skinless pork (aka fat) and other savoury dishes. Be prepared for a massive food coma afterwards. Swiss, and generally German, food is very heavy and takes a lot of time to digest. I ordered the Zurich Stew (Zürcher Geschnetzeltes) which was made from pork and came with a lovely potato rösti. It was exactly what I needed after a long day at work and a cold -6 degrees outside. They do serve Fondue. However, they only do so in winter and only outside since the Fondue makes a lot of steam. The steam and smell would cloud their cosy restaurant chamber and is therefore served outside.

Le Dézaley (Old Town, £££) was rated by Easyjet Magazine as one of the top-secret spots for Swiss Fondue. On my second visit, I went there of course. Together with my colleague, we ordered two sets: the classic traditional Cheese Fondue and a Black Truffle Fondue, alongside sliced bread.

We’ve been seated by a lovely Swiss waiter. He loved talking to us and was fascinated to learn about our international lifestyle. The whole experience just made you feel welcome and very cosy. The fondue itself is quite the experience. You have an open fire burner station on the table to keep the cheese nice and smooth. The bread is a great addition as you easily overeat the cheese and may feel sick after a while. Having a slice of plain bread clears your palate. For dessert, we ordered Italian Pannacotta which was sheer heaven and super smooth with a lovely vanilla flavour.

Another dining highlight in Zurich was Australian restaurant Outback Lodge (Stadelhofen, near the Opera House, £££). The restaurant is tucked away in the back yard and only the many fairy lights outside hint at the entrance to another world.

In the summer, you can sit outside, literally under the stars, and enjoy amazing food. On my first visit, I ordered their Bushtrucker Rolls (sweetcorn tortillas with lovely Australian chilli) and on my second visit, I went big and tried Kangaroo entrecote with green beans, papadum and tomato salsa. Yum! Both times I loved the food and Outback Lodge was an absolute must for me. Yep, Australian food is absolutely delish.

Switzerland has a variety of cultures and is a multilingual country hence why there are also many Italians living and working here. The best Italian restaurant as recommended by my colleagues is Don Leone (three locations, Waffenplatz, ££).

We had a team dinner after our social and ordered big time: we started with a sharing platter filled with burrata, ham and tomatoes, then went on to pizza, pasta, calzone, Dolcetto, arancini and pannacotta. I have no idea how much we spend in there but the atmosphere was lovely, the food was very authentic and delicious and I would come back anytime.

Where To Get Swiss Chocolate in Zurich?

Oh, what would a Zurich city break be without tasting Switzerland’s world-famous chocolate?!? The “Rolls-Royce” amongst Swiss chocolate is Läderrach and you’ll find their shops on the Swiss High Street. The chocolate is manufactured in big slabs so when you go there you’ll pay by weight (like when you go to the butcher) rather than by bar.

They have all sorts of flavours and combinations, and part of their success is the very smooth texture and a high portion of cocoa beans in the chocolate. A bit more down-to-earth but equally sophisticated is Sprüngli , which has several cafés in the city centre. Their chocolates are very nice and moderately priced. And then there’s, of course, Lindt (to me overrated) and Kambly (try their mountain top biscuits, available at the supermarket).

What To Do And See During A Short Zurich City Break

The city is surrounded by breath-taking mountain scenery which is approximately 40 minutes away by car. You can go hiking and skiing or just enjoy the sun in one of the many chalets and Après Ski cabins. There’s also Lake Zurich with its crystal-clear water.

When you travel to Zurich in the summer, you can eat ice cream, go swimming or take a boat trip. In general, the Swiss love their rivers and are very outdoorsy people. They love to experiment with water sports. The same applies to the river Limmat which ends in the Lake. Just before the bridge, there’s a women’s lido and you’ll regularly see people jumping into the river in the summer to cool down in their lunch breaks.

Then there’s the Opera House which is stunning at any time of the year but it is especially worth visiting in the pre-Christmas period when the markets are on. Then there’s also the Old Town on the East-side of the river which is a pedestrian zone seamed with old, fairytale gingerbread houses. Independent shops seam the cute little alleys which invite you to get lost.

It feels like you’ve been transported back into medieval times and you’ll find yourself admiring the houses and their delicate facades. There are water fountains telling stories of the area. Keep your eyes open. There’s much to see and to discover in the Old Town part of Zurich.

You can also explore the area in the other direction, around the Opera House. There’s a path along the water which invites for long, relaxing strolls. For excellent views over the town, head to the university on the hill . There’s a tower platform with awkward opening hours but also a viewing platform directly in front of the library. The Polyterrasse offers a gorgeous 260-degree all-around panoramic view over Zurich.

The city is Europes’ thriving business hub and is well connected to other cities such as Bern or Milan. It is easy to get on a train and do day trips to nearby places.

For a bit more action, I can recommend the Lasertag Arena (Waffenplatz). I’ve never done it before or played paintball, but during one of our team socials, we played two rounds of Lasertag. It was soooooooooooooo cool and so much fun! You’ll be given a laser cannon and wear an electronic vest. Once split into teams you are released into a dark labyrinth with lots of places to hide and the main aim is to “shoot” the other team. It’s a lot of fun, action and a pretty good workout since you’ll be constantly on the move.

Where To Stay In Zurich?

Disclaimer :  the following link is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Like everything in Switzerland, accommodation is rather pricey. The Old Town has some small, independent hotels and on both of my visits, I stayed at Hotel Rössli . The rooms are cosy and clean with a modern interior.

The beds are super soft and usually, I’m having a hard time falling asleep in hotels, but here, I actually managed to fully relax. The location in the pedestrian zone of the Old Town guarantees no sirens or heavy traffic will disturb your peace. There may be some drunken people in the pedestrian as there’s a small pub downstairs by the hotel.

So there you go, these are all my insights I can share for any short Zurich city break. It’s a lovely place and ideal for a weekender, pre-Christmas city break or romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day.

Thanks for reading, if you’d like to support my blog & research you can always Buy Me a Coffee .

Till next time, Carolin

* Cover picture: Picture Credit & Photographer: Switzerland Tourism / Jan Geerk

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About SoloTravelStory

Blogs about her travel adventures in the world from her London home.

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12 comments.

Looks like we walked the same streets and saw the same buildings when I was in Zurich – a beautiful city. I also noted the affluence here, you can’t miss it! I knew nothing about Swiss chocolate but now I feel educated and know my Läderrach from my Sprüngli and Lindt. I have a Lindt store near me in the UK, but have never explored or heard of the other two before. Those restaurants all sound great and if I’m ever back in Zurich I’ll bear them in mind for a visit. That hotel looks fabulous and teh rooms so cosy and modern – it advertises itself as 3 stars but looks more 4/5 stars, I guess that’s Swiss standards for you again.

Paul (Paul Passing Through)

I don’t know why, but it’s so interesting to me that you have to sit outside for fondue at the one place. That must be some steamy cheese! The Old Town sounds love, though, with all the fountains. Last, laser tag is great! We used to play all the time in high school.

Carina | bucketlist2life

You certainly managed to see more in your limited time in Zürich than I did. It’s such a gorgeous city!

Chalk and cheese travels

Fondue, chocolate and some great sights sounds like a fantastic place to visit

That black truffle fondue sounds divine! I haven’t been to Zurich since I was a kid, but it still looks as pretty as I remember. Great suggestions on where to eat and what to do.

Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad

Wow, looks like such a beautiful city! I also now really want a cheese fondue. So cool that you got to go there for work! Probably helps make it a bit cheaper that way too, haha.

Switzerland was so magical to visit – and Zurich looks like it is too! We only got to spend one day in Switzerland. So colorful – and how could you not have fondue!

Such a beautiful city with a lot to offer for a traveler. I’d love to visit here one day, explore around, and try some Swiss chocolate and fondue.

Zurich is certainly pretty enough, not sure about the prices of food though. That will really eat into the budget. But the chocolate and cheese fondue would totally be worth it to me. Lucky you, getting to visit such a lovely place for work

Cheese and chocolate – yes please! I think I would go to Zurich simply for the food. I also love a good German bakery, so Bakery Jung would be my ideal spot to get a delicious German sandwich or enjoy kaffee kuchen. Nice to know it’s a city where you can spend a day there and still feel like you’ve got a sense of the city in a short time.

Peggy Zipperer

Such a charming & beautiful city. You can’t go wrong with fondue, chocolate and those walkable city views.

Great short and sweet guide to explore Zurich seems like such a beautiful and fun place to visit!

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2024 Easter Break Tours at the Stockholm City Hall

All kids are welcome to a family tour of the City Hall. You explore the two grandest ballrooms, the Blue hall and the Golden hall. Why does the building look like a palace, does the king come here to parties and who are the queens that you see on the walls? And is the gold on the walls in the Golden hall real? The tour is adapted for kids ages 5–10 and is given in Swedish. The tour is given at 11.00 each day during the Easter break.

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2022 Registration is Live!

• By bjamison

The 10th Annual Z Tour Bike Ride is a charity road ride, supporting the Zearing Child Enrichment Center in Princeton, which provides riders a chance to enjoy some of the finest bike riding roads that North-Central Illinois has to offer. The well marked and supported routes will incorporate hills, rolling terrain, and beautiful views of Bureau Creek and the Hennepin Canal all with minimal traffic. We have several options for routes this year. We continue to offer a family friendly 10 mile route. The Adventure Route is a 60 mile route with a challenging variety of surfaces and inclines; including pavement, gravel, and maybe a little mud, all with limited support. This route is geared towards more experienced riders looking for less traveled roads. For 2022, we will have 3 unique loops beginning and finishing at Zearing Park, these routes vary in distance and difficulty. Riders can also choose to add a 20 mile Tiskilwa loop to take in some of the more challenging hills Bureau County has to offer. All routes are available on Ridewithgps.com. Ride just one loop or take them all on. If riders elect to ride all 4 main routes, total mileage is 105 miles with nearly 3,000ft of elevation gain.

Get more information for this great ride held in Princeton, Illinois online at  ztour.org . Early check-in is offered on Friday night’s “Down on Main Street” live concert Friday evening, band to be announced at a later date. Enjoy live music, food vendors and drinks as you check in for the ride. Merchandise pick-up and sales are also available during these times. Enjoy other local events such as Beef and Ag days on Saturday after your ride at Soldiers and Sailors Park in Princeton, IL. 

Back by popular demand is the Group Registration Option- Me + 3 = 

• 1 Leader should create a catchy group name
• Each individual should register under that catchy name
• At least 4 riders in a group
• Receive (1) $25.00 in Chamber Bucks to spend at Princeton businesses OR $25.00 on select Z Tour Merchandise! 

Register your group today and join the Z Tour and city of Princeton for all the fun starting Friday evening at 5:30 pm. We will be doing check in and registering from 5:30-7:30pm. Vendors start serving at 6:00 and the concert starts at 7:00pm. 

**ONLY 750 Riders this year! We strongly encourage you to get your tickets before the event!!**

• Easy and really fast check-in opening at 5:45 am.
• Detailed maps and cue for our loops! 
• Five themed rest stops supplied with nutritional food, beverages, and music. 10-mile with an optional hill challenge, Adventure Route, 3 loops to choose from with a Tiskilwa loop to add on! 
• Camping options at the Bureau County Fairgrounds (nominal fee).
• Several Air B and B options- book early!! 
• Radio-dispatched SAG and support by the Bureau County EMA until 3:00 pm
• Light breakfast offered from 6:00-9:00 am at Zearing Park
• NEW THIS YEAR- Food Trucks from 10:30-3:00 pm at Zearing Park after the ride! Featuring La Katrina Autentica and Little Tribe Woodfire on Wheels! Please visit their FB pages for menus! There will not be an end of ride meal served this year. 
• Long haul riders are encouraged to start between 6:00-8:00 AM. Helmets required!
• All other riders should start NO LATER than 9:00am. Helmets required!
• All routes begin and end at Princeton’s beautiful Zearing Park, where volunteers will be around to greet you and welcome you back from your long adventures! 
• We are encouraging you to do online registration before the event!
• We will have walk up registration at the Friday night street concert from 5:30-7:30 pm and Saturday morning from 5:45-8:30am with limited support. It may take longer to get through registration, please as you are able register by midnight on Thursday, June 16th. This will help speed the process up!

Download the Ride with GPS app. Some routes subject to change closer to the ride date. 

MERCHANDISE!!

All Jerseys must be ordered by April 21st , in order to receive the jerseys by the ride! If ordered after that, you will have to wait to receive your jersey in the mail after the ride. 

All Tshirts must be ordered by Monday, June 6th in order to receive the Tshirts by the ride! If ordered after that date, you will have to wait to receive your Tshirt in the mail after the ride.

Socks can be ordered at any time and are first come first serve based on the amount we have in stock.

Recent Posts

• Z Tour Pre-Party
• 2024 Z Tour is Now Live!
• (GASP) You haven’t signed up for the Z Tour Bike Ride yet?! 
• $35 price ending soon!
• Bike Fest June 23rd!

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• Mateo González on (GASP) You haven’t signed up for the Z Tour Bike Ride yet?! 
• David Janecki on What a weekend!
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• ZTour on New Routes for 2019!
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