Have you missed the thrill of hopping on a plane and exploring a new city over the course of a weekend? Us too! We can’t wait until we’re fully vaccinated and can explore Europe’s stunning cities with ease once again. 

On the 19th of July, international travel will resume and the EU Digital COVID Certificate will be in full use. Under the conditions of the Certificate, you can freely travel in the EU if you’re fully vaccinated, have a negative PCR test, or have recovered from COVID-19. We recommend waiting until you’re fully vaccinated (i.e. up to 14 days after your second dose) to go on a short city break. But where should you go…?

Rome

Rome is one of our most popular post-pandemic city breaks. A getaway to a city filled with striking architecture and an equally striking array of amazing food is the perfect tonic for the past year. Taste your way through the neighbourhood of Trastevere, known for its delicious food and excellent nightlife. Tick off some of Rome’s most famous sights like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican. Browse famous art in the  Galleria Borghese or archaeological treasures in the National Roman Museum.

Barcelona

Barcelona is the dream combination of a sun and city break. Soak up its culture by visiting some of Gaudí’s finest works like La Sagrada Familia or Park Guell. Football fans can take a tour of the famous Camp Nou stadium. Enjoy some sangria and tapas along Las Ramblas. Explore the Gothic Quarter, or, head to the beach and just soak up the sun. The excellent PortAventura World is just an hour away by train for those who love the thrills of a theme park. 

Lisbon

Lisbon is another sunny city that should be on everyone’s list. Its mosaic streets, impressive landmarks and bright yellow trams exude charm and give the city its sunny demeanour. Taste some of the city’s most famous foods such as the sweet Pasteis de Nata, Bacalhau, the savoury salted cod or a Bifana pork sandwich. See Lisbon’s rich history in the Belém neighbourhood where you’ll find the Jerónimos Monastery, Torre de Belém and the Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia (MAAT). From the beach towns of Cascais and Estoril to the spectacular palace in Sintra, a weekend in Lisbon has endless possibilities. 

Prague

To visit the Old Town of Prague is to step back in time. Overlooked by Prague Castle, the Old Town looks like something out of a fairytale. Visit the Old Town Hall Tower and watch in awe as the unique astronomical clock moves. Walk across the famous Charles Bridge to take in the views between the Old Town and Prague Castle. Go on a tour of Prague’s Jewish Quarter to see the Old-New Synagogue, one of the oldest buildings in the city and the Old Jewish Cemetery, one of the most important landmarks in the city.

Berlin

Berlin has fast become one of Europe’s trendiest and most liberal cities. Berlin has had a long and complex history, which makes it a fascinating and important city to visit. Visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Berlin Wall Memorial to gain a deeper insight into its turbulent past. Spend a weekend visiting the plethora of museums on Museumsinsel, an island that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and filled with museums. Or visit the stunning Charlottenburg Palace, which is particularly magical in the winter when it’s adorned with Christmas market stalls. 

Where will you go on your first city break?