Europe has a lot to offer for weekend warriors, with its top city breaks ranging from bustling capital cities to small-town charms. Whether you’re looking for culture, food, adventure or all three, these top weekend getaways in Europe offer a trip of a lifetime and suit all types of tastes.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite weekend getaways in Europe. Along with highlighting the best things to do in each destination, we’ve also featured the top hotels with luxury perks and easy access to top attractions.
Ghent, Belgium
Known for its picturesque canals, soaring spires and massive Gothic cathedral, Ghent is a vibrant, Flemish-speaking city in Belgium. While many travellers overlook this fabled city for nearby Bruges, Ghent is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe. Get lost in the maze of cobblestone streets and discover first-rate museums, colourful street art and architectural gems.
Top Experiences in Ghent
- Step inside the majestic Cathedral of St. Bavo to see its unique paintings.
- Climb to the top of The Belfry for epic city views or enjoy a scenic canal cruise.
- Step back in time at the Castle of the Counts, a fortification dating back to 1180.
Top Hotel in Ghent
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof is a grand mansion known for its opulent grandeur. A mix of modern design and an elegant Louis XIV interior, chic rooms and suites offer smart TVs, Nespresso machines and mini bars. Most rooms have a balcony or terrace, while some add separate sitting areas.
Food lovers will delight at the highly-rated LOF Restaurant, while The Living Bar & Bistro is an elegant lounge and bistro in one with sumptuous sofas, fireplace and library. Alternatively, opt for tea and coffee at LOF Cafe or a drink on the sunny garden terrace.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 156 – USD 921
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Hoogstraat 36, Ghent 9000, Belgium
Hotel Location
Porto, Portugal
A romantic riverside city, Porto is beloved for its renowned Port wine cellars, historic city centre and bright blue “azulejo” tiles. Its delightfully charming streets make it a perfect weekend getaway, opening up to a spectacular waterfront dotted with cosy restaurants and wine bars. Sip and saunter your way through Porto and enjoy wine tasting, live Fado shows and cultural attractions.
Top Experiences in Porto
- Stroll the UNESCO-listed Ribeira, a waterfront promenade lined with restaurants and bars.
- Cross the Luis I Bridge for picture-perfect sunset views, then visit one of the Port wine cellars in Gaia.
- Admire Porto Cathedral’s beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate “azulejo” tiles in Sao Bento Railway Station.
Top Hotel in Porto
The Yeatman Hotel
The Yeatman is a luxury wine hotel in Porto, offering majestic views over the UNESCO-listed city and the Douro River. This luxe hotel features upscale facilities, including outdoor and indoor infinity pools, gourmet restaurants and a posh spa. Best of all, it has wine cellars, a wine shop and wine masterclasses.
All of the rooms and suites offer city views and a private terrace or balcony. The ADF Suite has a barrel bed while the Artists Suite has a 12-metre-long terrace, but The Bacchus Suite takes the cake as the most romantic with its round copper Jacuzzi with a freestanding fireplace.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 225 – USD 841
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Rua do Choupelo (Santa Marinha), 345, Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal
Hotel Location
Bologna, Italy
Considered Italy’s culinary capital, Bologna is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe for food lovers. This top-rated foodie destination not only offers local restaurants serving hearty Italian cuisine, but the lively capital of the Emilia-Romagna region also boasts sprawling plazas, charming cafes and medieval and Renaissance structures.
Top Experiences in Bologna
- Sample local specialties, including homemade tagliatelle or pappardelle pasta, tortelloni and tortellacci.
- Visit the city’s main square Piazza Maggiore and snap a photo of the iconic Basilica di San Petronio.
- Climb up Asinelli Tower for panoramic city views or window shop luxury brands in the Quadrilatero.
Top Hotel in Bologna
Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni
Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni is one of Bologna’s most iconic hotels. Set in an 18th-century palazzo, it features the renowned I Carracci Restaurant serving traditional cuisine, while Enoteca Morandi has over 300 top-quality wines in its cellar. Also, guests can enjoy signature cocktails at Cafe Marinetti or the spa’s Turkish bath.
Elegant rooms feature antique furniture, classic French decor and modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini bars. Upgrade to the lavish Art Deco Terrace Suite for a large living room with a fireplace and furnished terrace with panoramic city views.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 264 – USD 3,254
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Via Indipendenza 8, 40121 Bologna, Bologna, Italy
Hotel Location
Seville, Spain
Seville is the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, famous for its flamenco dancing, enormous cathedral and quaint cobblestone lanes. It boasts an enchanting atmosphere with its palm-lined promenades and outdoor plazas, which lead to tapas bars, boutique shops and colourful gardens. Take it all in before your afternoon siesta so you can also experience the city’s buzzing nightlife.
Top Experiences in Seville
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Seville Cathedral, Real Alcazar palace and charming Barrio de Santa Cruz neighbourhood.
- Catch a live flamenco show or browse exhibits at Museo del Baile Flamenco.
- Marvel at the 50,000-square-metre Plaza de Espana with its colourful tiles.
Top Hotel in Seville
Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville
Located in the historic quarter, Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville was commissioned by the King of Spain. The iconic cultural landmark features an outdoor swimming pool and gardens as well as multiple eateries. At Restaurante San Fernando, guests can enjoy a romantic evening with traditional Spanish dishes and local wines.
Regal rooms and suites are fit for royalty, featuring Sevillian tiled bathrooms, flat-screen TVs and mini bars. Upgrade to the lavish Reales Alcazares Suite for a spacious living room, shuttle services and views of the gardens, La Gerald and the Seville Cathedral.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 170 – USD 1,189
Guest Rating: 9
Address: San Fernando 2, 41004 Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain
Hotel Location
Cork, Ireland
The second-largest city in Ireland, Cork is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe. Renowned for its food scene, visitors will also love its eccentric vibe paired with independent coffee shops, second-hand bookshops and art galleries. In addition to music and arts festivals, it also boasts leafy parks, historic markets and a spectacular bell tower.
Top Experiences in Cork
- Browse local food stalls in The English Market or go shopping along St. Patricks Street.
- Marvel at the striking city views from Shandon Bells & Tower or enjoy the greenery in Fitzgerald’s Park.
- Make the journey to nearby Cobh, one of the most charming small-town gems in Europe.
Top Hotel in Cork
The Montenotte Hotel
Overlooking Cork’s city centre, The Montenotte Hotel boasts sophisticated rooms and apartments. Take advantage of the pool, sauna, steam room and fitness centre at Motion Health Club or get pampered at the spa before soaking up the panoramic city views from the terrace at the on-site restaurant.
Double and Single Rooms are ideal for budget-savvy travellers with coffee makers, flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. Alternatively, families can opt for extra space in one of the luxury apartments with a living room and kitchen.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 169 – USD 355
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Middle Glanmire Road, Cork, Ireland
Hotel Location
Poznan, Poland
Poznan is a hidden gem in Poland, beloved for its photogenic central square and Renaissance-era architecture. Nestled on the Warta River, you can easily spend a weekend exploring its historic monuments, fascinating museums and cultural attractions. At noon, head to the town hall to see the mechanical goats that butt heads on its unique clock.
Top Experiences in Poznan
- Admire the Renaissance-style buildings in Old Market Square and browse nearby shops, cafes and eateries.
- Learn about the city’s history at the Royal Castle and National Museum, then see historically significant sculptures in Citadel Park.
- Take the kids to the Croissant Museum or enjoy outdoor recreation at Lake Malta.
Top Hotel in Poznan
Puro Poznan Stare Miasto
Puro Poznan Stare Miasto offers a mix of contemporary design with historical surroundings, located less than a 15-minute walk from Poznan Garbary train station. In addition to a weekly cocktails event at Nifty No. 20, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, cafe and bar, the hotel serves a Sunday Roast BBQ feast on the patio.
Modern rooms are flooded with natural light and feature free Wi-Fi, mini fridges and flat-screen TVs. Upgrade to a Junior Suite for a spacious living area or the large Apartment with home-like amenities and city views.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 122 – USD 258
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Stawna 12, 61-759 Poznan, Wielkopolskie, Poland
Hotel Location
Riga, Latvia
Riga is both compact and charming, considered a cultural centre home to top-notch museums, Art Nouveau architecture and pedestrian-friendly Old Town. Latvia’s capital city has a history stretching back to the Middle Ages, but it’s also a hotspot for travellers who are looking for a vibrant food scene and buzzing nightlife. If you really want to immerse yourself in local traditions, sample Riga Black Balsam liqueur.
Top Experiences in Riga
- Stroll the medieval Old Town and cobbled alleys packed with beautiful squares and churches.
- See the red roofs and cobbled streets from above at St. Peter’s Church viewing platform.
- Step inside the 13th-century Cathedral of Riga, famous for its beautiful wooden organ installed in the 1880s.
Top Hotel in Riga
Grand Palace Hotel
Grand Palace Hotel offers a luxury stay in the heart of Riga’s historic Old Town. The collection of chic rooms offer a tranquil retreat from the city centre with contemporary decor, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and heated bathroom floors while posh Suites add four-poster beds and seating areas.
In addition to complimentary breakfast, there’s also a chic lobby bar and seasonal outdoor terrace serving cocktails. Valet parking, 24-hour room services and massages are available, as well as a fitness room, sauna and steam bath.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 95 – USD 348
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Pils Street 12 Pils Iela 12, Riga, Latvia
Hotel Location
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik offers one of the best weekend getaways in Europe for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. You can pack your itinerary with natural wonders, from majestic waterfalls and steamy hot springs to icy glaciers. Time your visit to see the otherworldly beauty of the Northern Lights.
Top Experiences in Reykjavik
- Take a dip in the milky blue geothermal waters of the famed Blue Lagoon.
- Road trip along the Golden Circle to see Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Tick off must-see cultural attractions, including Hallgrimur Church and the National Museum of Iceland.
Top Hotel in Reykjavik
Miðgarður by Center Hotels
One of the best Iceland hotels for seeing the Northern Lights, Miðgarður by Center Hotels is an oasis in Reykjavik. Not only does it have a spa with an indoor pool, sauna and massages, but it also boasts a secluded garden. HotelsCombined visitors praise the traditional Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist at Jörgensen Kitchen & Bar, which is also popular for its wine tasting.
The Standard Double/Twin room features a mini bar and flat-screen TV, while the Deluxe Double Twin adds mountain and sea views from large windows. There’s even a Northern Lights wake-up call service.
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 139 – USD 365
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Laugavegur 120, Reykjavik IS-101, Iceland
Hotel Location
Strasbourg, France
Located on the German-French border, Strasbourg boasts quaint cobblestone streets and picturesque canals. A weekend in this underrated destination offers a chance to explore its soaring cathedral, verdant parks and fairytale-like districts. Sample exquisite Alsatian wines, hop on a bike and explore on two wheels and stop to see the famous astronomical clock.
Top Experiences in Strasbourg
- Ascend to the top of Strasbourg Cathedral for views of the city, Rhine plains, Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains.
- Get lost in the winding maze of canals and narrow streets in the picture-perfect La Petite France historic centre.
- Take a break in Parc de l’Orangerie or wander the Strasbourg Botanical Gardens.
Top Hotel in Strasbourg
Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile
Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile offers 5-star luxuries just steps from Strasbourg’s most iconic attractions. Sample local cuisines at the stylish Terroir & Co restaurant or try creative cocktails at Bar Le Link, which features retro-chic 1940s decor.
After a day of sightseeing, retreat to one of the elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini bars. Want Strasbourg Cathedral views? Upgrade to an Opera Suite for a Nespresso machine, living room and terrace with city vistas.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 170 – USD 938
Guest Rating: 8
Address: 4 Place Saint Pierre le Jeune, 67000 Strasbourg, Bas-Rhin, France
Hotel Location
Heidelberg, Germany
Last but not least, Heidelberg wraps up our list of the best weekend getaways in Europe. This quaint college town is also one of the most romantic cities in Germany, offering a postcard-worthy riverside location and castle ruins overlooking the city centre. Surrounded by forested hills, its Old Town boasts interesting museums and historic landmarks.
Top Experiences in Heidelberg
- Explore Marktplatz (Market Square), the heart of the Old Town lined with restaurants, small shops and historic buildings.
- Wander Heidelberg Castle and its ruins that date back to 1300 and visit the interesting German Apothecary Museum on site.
- Enjoy stunning city views from the Church of the Holy Spirit or shop along the pedestrianised Hauptstrasse.
Top Hotel in Heidelberg
Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg
None of the rooms are alike at Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg, an opulent, family-run hotel dating back to 1865. Standard rooms feature free Wi-Fi, mini bars and soundproof windows, while Junior Suites add extra space with a living room, cosy armchair and desk.
On warmer months, the pool and sun terrace are an oasis of tranquility. The 600 square meter rooftop offers everything from a sauna and steam room to beauty treatments and relaxing massages. For fine dining, sample gourmet cuisines at Kurfürstenstube, then enjoy a nightcap in the cosy Europa Bar.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 228 – USD 879
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany
Hotel Location
Tick These Weekend Getaways in Europe Off Your Bucket List
If you need a couple of days to reset, pack your carry-on bag and visit one of these exciting weekend getaways in Europe. Plan a mini-vacation and explore anything from world-renowned attractions and historic landmarks to top restaurants and nightlife, then retreat to a luxury hotel nearby to rest and recharge for another day of sightseeing.
What are your favourite weekend getaways in Europe? Let us know in the comments below.
