City break in Europe: Our 5 favorite destinations
Do you have that wanderlust in you too? The need to experience new cultures, admire stunning architecture and taste the delights of local cuisine? Then pack your bags, because a city trip through Europe could be just the thing for you!
Europe, the continent that enchants with its historical treasures, its picturesque landscapes and its vibrant metropolises like no other, is just waiting to be discovered by you. Whether you want to stroll the romantic streets of Paris, experience the impressive history of Rome up close, or plunge into the vibrant life of cities like Berlin or Barcelona, a city break through Europe offers you infinite opportunities to do just that. We present 5 insider tips that are guaranteed to inspire you.
Our 5 insider tips for your city trip to Europe
Berlin, London or Paris: popular cities in Europe that we all know and of which many of us have also certainly traveled to at least one city. Each of these metropolises has its own unmistakable charm and a variety of sights that attract tourists from all over the world.
But Europe has much more to offer. Away from these well-known destinations, there are numerous other cities that are just as worth seeing and fascinating in their own way. Cities that are a bit off the mainstream can often offer surprising experiences and unforgettable moments.
Porto, Portugal: Porto, also known as "Cidade Invicta" or "Unconquered City," is the second largest city in Portugal and is picturesquely located at the mouth of the Douro River. It is particularly famous for its port wine, which is aged and stored in the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, on the opposite side of the river. Porto is rich in historic architecture and impressive buildings. The heart of the city is the Old Town Ribeira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you'll find colorful houses hugging steep hills, narrow cobblestone streets and Porto's impressive cathedral, the Sé. Also worth a visit is Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, known for its stunning interior and as the inspiration for the "Harry Potter" series.
Bologna, Italy: Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy, is a historic city with a lively atmosphere, characterized above all by the oldest university in Europe, the Università di Bologna. The city is famous for its red brick buildings, which give it the nickname "La Rossa" or "The Red". Two of the most famous landmarks are the "Due Torri" (Two Towers), Garisenda and Asinelli, built during the Middle Ages. If you climb the more than 400 steps of the Asinelli Tower, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the city. Bologna is often referred to as the culinary capital of Italy. The city is home to many world-famous dishes such as spaghetti Bolognese, mortadella and tortellini. A walk through the Quadrilatero, the old market district, is an absolute must to taste the delicious local cuisine.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: The Slovenian capital is one of the greenest cities in Europe. With its medieval castle, many bridges over the Ljubljanica River, and a lively arts scene, Ljubljana is a real insider's tip. In the heart of Ljubljana you will find the picturesque Old Town, which stretches along the Ljubljanica River. Here you'll find numerous buildings designed by the famous Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, including the striking Three Bridges and the impressive National and University Library.
Liège, Belgium: Liège is one of the oldest cities in Belgium and offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and modern life. Of particular note are the Montagne de Bueren staircase and the lively Le Carré neighborhood. The Montagne de Bueren staircase is one of the most famous attractions in Liège. The impressive staircase has 374 steps leading up a steep hill. From the top you have a breathtaking view of the city. The Le Carré neighborhood is the heart of Liège's nightlife. Here you will find a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants that are often open until the early hours of the morning. This neighborhood is known for its lively and friendly atmosphere.
Bilbao, Spain: Known for the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao has much more to offer than just this landmark. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent Basque cuisine, and stunning architecture. The cultural and economic center of the Basque Country in northern Spain has undergone an amazing transformation in recent decades. The former industrial city has transformed into a vibrant metropolis with outstanding architecture, first-class gastronomy and a lively art scene. Bilbao's charming old town, Casco Viejo, is a maze of narrow streets filled with traditional Basque taverns known for their pintxos (the Basque answer to tapas) and small boutiques. The seven streets that form the heart of Casco Viejo are a lively place that preserves the city's history.
What is the ideal suitcase for a city trip through Europe?
Choosing the ideal suitcase for a city break through Europe depends on several factors, including the duration of your trip, your destination, the time of year, and your personal preferences. Here are a few tips to help you find the ideal luggage and the perfect size suitcase:
- Size: For a short city trip of a few days, a carry-on suitcase is usually sufficient. These often have the dimensions of about 55x40x20 cm, which is accepted by most airlines as hand luggage. However, if you're traveling longer or need more space for souvenirs, a medium-size suitcase (about 65-70 cm high) might be more suitable.
- Hard-sided or soft-sided suitcases: Hard-sided suitcases offer better protection for your belongings and are water-resistant. However, they are less flexible than soft luggage suitcases, which can make packing a little more difficult. Soft-sided suitcases tend to be lighter and offer more flexibility, which can be useful when you're trying to fit everything into your suitcase.
- Interior: Look for a suitcase that has useful features like separate compartments, interior pockets or packing straps. These can help you organize your belongings and make the most of the space in your suitcase, keeping your treasures in place. Our travelite suitcases convince in every variant with a clever interior layout and a high-quality interior.
A city break through Europe is a fantastic way to experience the diverse culture, history and gastronomy of this fascinating continent. From the hidden treasures of Liege and Ljubljana to the vibrant metropolises of Porto, Bologna and Bilbao, Europe is full of exciting and unique cities waiting to be discovered. We hope that we could give you some inspiration for your next city trip through Europe with our tips and wish you an exciting journey.
