Header

Language Selection

Main navigation

Search

A city break in Europe: the best destinations

A city break in Europe offers an incredible variety of culture, history and experiences. Whether it’s a weekend or a longer trip, Europe’s cities are the perfect destinations. In this article we cover the most popular keywords and questions about "a city break in Europe".

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-stadtetrip-europa-stagestatic

The top 10 cities for a city break in Europe

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-stadtetrip-europa-paris-stagestatic

1. Paris, France

Paris is known as the City of Love and is home to attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre Dame Cathedral.

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-stadtetrip-europa-rom-stagestatic

2. Rome, Italy

The Eternal City impresses with its ancient ruins such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum and Vatican City.

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-stadtetrip-europa-barcelona-stagestatic

3. Barcelona, Spain

Gaudí’s architecture, the lively Las Ramblas and the beaches make Barcelona a must for any city break.

The best tips for your city trip to Barcelona

americanexpress-magazin-places-amsterdam-shopping-stagestatic

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

The picturesque canals, the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum are just some highlights in this charming city.

The best tips for your city trip to Amsterdam

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-stadtetrip-europa-berlin-stagestatic

5. Berlin, Germany

The German capital is a place of history, modern art and culture and home to the world-famous Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag.

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-staedtetrip-europa-prag-stagestatic

6. Prague, Czech Republic

The city of a hundred towers stands out with its well-preserved old town, Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-staedtetrip-europa-wien-stagestatic

7. Vienna, Austria

Viennese Coffee Houses, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Schönbrunn Palace are just a few reasons to visit Vienna.

americanexpress-magazin-places-lissabon-shopping-places-stagestatic

8. Lisbon, Portugal

The city of seven hills has historic trams, the Castelo de São Jorge and stunning views from Bairro Alto.

The best tips for your city trip to Lisbon

americanexpress-magazin-hidden-places-and-spaces-staedtetrip-europa-budapest-stagestatic

9. Budapest, Hungary

The Danube divides the city into Buda and Pest, and the thermal baths and parliament are impressive spots.

americanexpress-magazin-kopenhagen-stageslider

10. Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish capital is known for its feelgood atmosphere, the Tivoli amusement park and the Nyhavn neighborhood.

The best tips for your city trip to Copenhagen

Frequently asked questions about a city break in Europe

For a short weekend, cities such as Amsterdam, Prague, and Lisbon are ideal. These cities are home to many sights and easy to explore on foot.

A city break with children can be just as much fun. Choose child-friendly cities such as Berlin or Copenhagen, which offer numerous activities and attractions for children. Plan for breaks and use child-friendly methods of transport such as hop-on hop-off buses.

Our top 10 include Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Lisbon, Budapest and Copenhagen. These cities offer a perfect blend of culture, history and entertainment.

Compare prices on different flight booking sites and use price alerts. Flights during the week are often cheaper. Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet regularly offer services to European cities.

Consider the time of year; some cities may be crowded at certain times of year. Book your accommodation in advance and find out about local events and public holidays to get the most out of your break.

A city trip in Europe offers countless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re visiting the top 10 cities, spending a weekend in one of the many other fascinating cities, or planning a family trip, Europe has something for everyone. Start planning today and discover the most beautiful cities in Europe!

Discover more exciting topics

American Express Platinum Card®

The metal American Express Platinum Card is precisely finished, timeless and robust. With its exclusive advantages, it is the perfect companion when traveling and in your daily life. For the life you love.

American Express® Gold Card

The American Express® Gold Card offers many benefits when traveling, dining and shopping. Pay securely while traveling worldwide and benefit from travel services such as lounge access, dining and shopping credits, comprehensive insurance and 15,000 Membership Rewards welcome points.

americanexpress-magazin-image-teaser
americanexpress-magazin-image-teaser

American Express Magazine

Stories and personalities that make up the unique American Express® experience.