Food and romance in Prague
Enjoy a weekend in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, and take in some of the city’s fascinating heritage, delicious food and amazing nightlife. The Astronomical Clock, situated on the south side of the Old Town Hall Tower, is the oldest operating one in the world, having first been installed over 600 years ago. On the hour it chimes and the procession of the 12 apostles is set in motion. Wander over the iconic medieval Charles Bridge with its Baroque statues and visit the fairy-tale Prague Castle, perched on a hill, for picturesque views of the city and across the tranquil river Vltava. Experience the simple delights of Czech culture and try the famous plum brandy, or a meal of traditional goulash in one of the many cafés. Czech beer is renowned across the world, so visit a local pub and try some of the finest, before finding a busy bar near Wenceslas Square to dance the night away.
• Stay at The Grand Hotel Bohemia in Prague’s Old Town, from £111 per night. Book online at Grandhotelbohemia.cz/en/. Flights from £27, from Birmingham to Prague from January 2022 with Jet2.com
Hygge life in Copenhagen
The Danish capital is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike, as cars have no right of way on the city’s cobbled streets. Make a stop at the National Museum of Denmark for your culture fix, then head to the beautiful King’s Garden where you’ll find the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle. Tivoli Gardens is great for fun days out – it’s a mini amusement park that inspired Walt Disney, and, of course, the famous Little Mermaid statue at Langelinie Pier is a must-see. Denmark is known for its “hygge” way of comfortable living, so indulge in shopping experiences from high-end fashion to beautifully made Danish design, where the interior shops offer coziness and style in abundance. While exploring, stop and enjoy a Danish pastry in one of the many canalside bars. If you fancy a ride out of town, board the train to Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, its location and views are to die for.
• Stay at the Huxley Copenhagen, from £106 per night for an economy room with Booking.com. Flights from Heathrow London to Copenhagen from £47 with Ba.com
Elegance in Vienna
Known as one of the most elegant cities in Europe, Austria’s capital is well worth exploring on a weekend break. The history and grandeur are still visible in its beautiful medieval streets, stunning palaces like the Palais Liechtenstein, and its charming coffee houses, fashion boutiques and famous opera house. Explore the different districts that are arranged in rings around St Stephen’s Cathedral, which dominates the centre of the old town. The Ringstrasse, a tree-lined boulevard, circles the old part of Vienna and is a brilliant cycle path that takes in the city sites. Enjoy some culture in the museum quarter, home to the Belverdere Palace and the Austrian Gallery, with works by Gustav Klimt, including “The Kiss”. You can’t visit the city without a stop in one of the many cafés, drinking coffee and eating Sacher Torte (chocolate cake). Café Central has the most amazing décor with gorgeous chandeliers, while Café Sacher, sells one of the best Sacher Tote in the city.
• Stay at the Ruby Lissi, Vienna from £75 a night for a Nest Room, including breakfast. Visit Rubyhotels.com to book. Flights from £28, from Bristol to Vienna with Ryanair.com
Culture in Budapest
Set along the Danube River, with a backdrop of the Buda Hills, Budapest is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It’s full of culture, heritage sites, museums, art galleries and a vibrant night life. It’s easy to navigate, with the river at the heart of the city, Buda on one side and Pest on the other. Buda’s Castle Quarter should be top of your to-do list, with its historical thermal baths, Royal Palace, wonky streets and a feeling of calm and tranquillity. Cross the river via the beautiful Liberty Bridge and enjoy the bustling vibrancy of Pest. One of the great places to take it all in is St Stephen’s Basilica, which is surrounded by pedestrian streets, or the “Jewish District” with its synagogues, delicious food and beautiful Holocaust memorial, Shoes On The River. No visit would be complete without an evening tour along the Danube admiring the timeless views.
• Stay at the four-star Continental Hotel Budapest, from £185pp, for three nights, bed and breakfast, including flights from London Gatwick with Easyjet.com
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