4th April 2017: This list is perfect for those with a little less time or for those wanting to pop away for an extra trip. As with our Top 10 Beaches blog, we have tried to inspire you with some cities you may not have considered. We can also add on some very special extra excursions to your city break. Most of these are private trips where you’ll avoid the crowds or get exclusive access after hours. We can arrange this type of travel for cities throughout the world so, if you have a special excursion you would like to do, just ask us!
My favourite of these city breaks would be New York. I have been there five times and still feel there is so much that I have not seen and done. Yes, it has the iconic buildings but just wandering through the streets of Manhattan reveals some amazing sights and those delis are something special. From Dubai to Tallinn, Barcelona to New York, I am sure you will find something to inspire you to travel and remember, if you want something just a bit different or special, just ask.
We’d love to hear your thoughts too. Please comment at the end of this blog if you think we’ve missed somewhere special!
New York, USA
‘New York, New York,’ so good they named it twice. A trip to this metropolitan city will leave you with unforgettable memories. While there’s no doubt a trip to the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and a Broadway musical are unmissable, don’t forget a trip to the Rockefeller Centre and a shopping spree at its high-end boutiques. Away from this, use your time here to take a moment, and reflect at Ground Zero. We recommend dining at The View Restaurant and Lounge; a revolving restaurant at the top of the Marriott Marquis, where the city’s sensational skyline at night will leave you speechless.
The reason for my nomination...
"New York has to be my all-time favourite city; vibrant, exciting and cosmopolitan. I could never get bored wondering around the ‘City That Never Sleeps’. To date, the 9/11 Memorial is still the most moving place I have ever visited.."
Meg Gardiner, Malmesbury shop
Kraków, Poland
The beauty of this city is in its simplicity. Just two hours flight from Bristol Airport, Kraków is renowned for its fantastic shopping boutiques and tantalising cuisine. Its tall, traditional buildings are a delight to walk amongst, with the city’s Rynek Glowny Grand Square taking centre stage. Located close to some of the country’s most popular attractions, Kraków is perfectly placed for a weekend break. We’d recommend a private tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, UNESCO World Heritage listed, to discover Poland’s centuries old traditions and culture.
The reason for my nomination...
"A beautiful city ideal for a few nights away somewhere different, Krakow has so many shops, bars and restaurants to explore. Its architecture is stunning and its cathedral, castle and Jewish quarter are not to be missed!"
Lisa Burnham, Clifton shop
Barcelona, Spain
As the second biggest metropolis in Spain, this colourful and classic city is perfect for those who adore shopping and indulging in the finest foods. There’s no shortage of culture in Barcelona with countless museums and artwork adorning its city walls and buildings. Discover Picasso’s childhood and visit landmarks which shaped the artist’s youth or take a tour of Antoni Gaudi’s work, seen across this quirky city. No visit to this city would be complete without a walk along Las Ramblas. Marvel at this 1.2km long tree-lined street awash with beautiful landmark buildings such as the Gran Teatre del Liceu and Boqueria Market.
The reason for my nomination...
"This cosmopolitan city is famous for its beautiful artwork and architecture including the great ‘Sagrada Família’ - the main example of Gaudí’s amazing work. An added bonus; this beautiful coastal city includes a nearby beach, the ideal place to relax after a busy day sightseeing."
Lyndsey Clifford, Taunton shop
Venice, Italy
Venice’s allure comes from its history of art, architecture and literature with the famous Venetian school style of art being established here during the Middle-Ages. You’ll feel like a movie star with the wind in your hair, as you jet along its wondrous canals in your own private water-taxi. Couple this with glorious food and a laid-back atmosphere and you’ll never want to leave! The La Fenice Opera House, built in 1790, has been restored and re-opened to the public in 2003. With events held throughout the year the Teatro La Fenice is ideal for those seeking a delightful night at the ballet or opera.
The reason for my nomination...
"Mystical and magical the beautiful city of Venice is made up of 100 islands, 200 canals and is spanned by over 400 bridges making it truly unique. On your visit, be wowed by the glorious St Mark’s Square, Basilica and Clock Tower. Its Grand Canal thoroughfare is lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces making for a truly wonderful spectacle as you glide through this floating city"
Eva Hanley, Abergavenny shop
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Maybe not the first place on your list for a weekend break, but think again. Just a six to seven hour flight to warm winter sunshine, amazing beaches, stunning food and great service. Dubai is growing by the year with more stunning hotels to stay in and even more to see and do. Just some highlights include, the Atlantis Hotel on the end of the Palm, the views from the Burj Khalifa and its amazing fountain show. Finally, visit the only shopping mall we know to have a full ski slope inside it. Dubai is larger than life, closer than you think and well worth a visit.
The reason for my nomination...
"There’s only one word to describe Dubai – luxurious. With its designer boutiques, souks, lavish hotels and the Burj Khalifa - the world’s tallest building - you’ll be in awe of this incredible city. From fountain and firework displays to skydiving and desert safari excursions, each visit to Dubai is unique and most definitely, truly unforgettable!"
Rachel Jones, Gloucester shop
Dubrovnik, Croatia
This UNESCO World Heritage listed city is awash with beauty, history and culture both old and new. Famous for its historic city walls, Dubrovnik’s architecture tells stories of its wartime past; many of its walls are still pocked with bullet holes from its civil war and so, a visit to its Homeland War Exhibition is a must. This, however, is juxtaposed with the city as it stands today; its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels and fantastic food make this city stand out from many others. Its views are truly spectacular. Couple this with al fresco fine-dining and evening cocktails along the city’s cobbled streets and Dubrovnik will forever change your preconceptions of Croatia.
The reason for my nomination...
"This truly magnificent city is awash with side-street alleyways, pavement cafes and unique hotels. A magnet for star-watchers, the city has risen in popularity with fans of Game of Thrones. I highly recommend a guided walk around Dubrovnik’s old city walls"
Margaret Moulton, Wells shop
Monaco
Take a helicopter transfer from the airport and arrive in style to the glamorous city of Monaco. Home of the rich and famous, Monaco is dripping with bright lights, designer shopping and luxury yachts. Visit its Casino de Monte-Carlo for a spectacular night out; a ballet performance or perhaps a trip to the theatre. Its stunning harbour-front is ideal for taking an early evening stroll along and watching the sunset. No trip to this dazzling city would be complete without a Monaco Grand Prix walking tour.
The reason for my nomination...
"Take a helicopter flight over Monte Carlo and visit its array of casinos and delightful harbour. The city is beautiful; home to luxury boutiques and stalls, perfect for shopping. Make the most of your time here by visiting the famous Monaco Grand Prix."
Sarah Jones, Monmouth shop
Rome, Italy
Awash with history, this ancient city is famous for its grand, traditional architecture and its bygone Roman Empire. Its cobbled streets and hidden alleyways are a stark contrast to the hustle-and-bustle of its main streets. Stunning art collections and statues adorn this magnificent city with the Doria Pamphilj Gallery showcasing just a fragment of historic Roman culture. No trip to this sprawling city would be complete without a visit to the iconic Trevi Fountain. Equally the city’s Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built, is well worth a visit. Completed in AD 80, you can’t help but marvel at its sensational history which spans over two millennia.
The reason for my nomination...
"This beautiful city is one of the easiest cities to navigate and has some of the best historic sites in Europe. Visit the Colosseum, Vatican and the Trevi Fountain and explore Rome’s backstreets to sample some of the best restaurants in this enchanting city"
Heather Muir, Yeovil shop
Paris, France
There’s more to Paris than just romance and the Eiffel Tower; there are plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Stroll along to number 68 on the Champs-Elysées to the Maison Guerlain and invent your own scent at the world’s largest fragrance house. Each of its four floors is home to the ultimate in Parisian beauty and each facial in its day spa is tailored to the individual. Spend a night at Paris’s top secret roof-top bar, La Main Folle, and discover its charming interior and diverse cocktail selection.
The reason for my nomination...
"Few cities in the world deliver such excitement and romance than the beautiful city of Paris. With its broad tree-lined boulevards, iconic monuments, chic boutiques and remarkable museums, no two visits to this historic city need ever be the same"
Judy Scott, Cheltenham shop
Tallinn, Estonia
Estonia’s capital city is just a short taxi ride away from the airport and a stroll away from the port if stopping as part of a cruise. You’ll be amazed at the fairytale-like medieval buildings, cathedrals and rambling cobbled streets nestling alongside. Open to the public since 2010, explore Tallinn’s hidden WWII passageways; a labyrinth of 17th century tunnels with 380 passageways found under the Old Town. A trip to the city’s 12th century old Saint Olav’s Church comes highly recommended. Once the tallest building in the world, its 124m spire can be seen from across the city - climb to the top and be rewarded by stunning views.
The reason for my nomination...
"Tallinn is most definitely the hidden Jewel of Estonia; amazing you with its medieval buildings, cobbled streets and stunning architecture. Views from the top of the city are especially breathtaking. Try dining at one of Tallinn’s delicious restaurants offering fine, local cuisine."
Nina Robertshaw, Ross-On-Wye shop
