Top 5: European Cities For Cheap Weekend Breaks

Across Europe, a new raft of destinations are growing in popularity thanks to the boom in weekend travel. These options will let you escape daily life without breaking the bank.

Old Town, Tallinn © Rtsubin | Dreamstime

Tallinn, Estonia

The Estonian capital is a great option for those who want to experience the charms of Eastern Europe without spending the weekend surrounded by rowdy stag parties. Great architecture, friendly locals and cheap beer make this a favorite destination.

© Mihocphoto | Dreamstime

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest has become popular with foreign backpackers due to its low prices, but it has plenty to offer other kinds of travelers, too. Delve into the history of the country with a visit to the National History Museum, or the Museum of the Romanian Peasant.

Exit Festival, Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad © Bojan Bokic | Dreamstime

Novi Sad, Serbia

Serbia’s second city is a short train ride away from the capital, Belgrade, and is dominated by a huge castle on the river. Every summer the town plays host to Exit Festival, which brings in musicians from all over the world. When the festival isn’t in town, soak up the café culture and perhaps see a football match.

City of Arts and Sciences by Santiago Calatrava, Valencia © Elevationus | Dreamstime

Valencia, Spain

Most visitors to Spain stick to the tried-and-tested favorites Madrid and Barcelona, but Valencia is increasingly staking a claim as the most interesting city in the country. Burgeoning culinary and artistic scenes have brought more visitors to Valencia than ever before, and with good reason.

Le Charite in Marseille © Kemaltaner | Dreamstime

Marseille, France

This much-maligned Mediterranean port city was written off as a hotbed of crime for many years. Nowadays it retains its gritty charm, but with plenty to offer tourists. As the hub of North African immigration into France, it’s a great spot to take in the melting pot of cultures.