Summer has once again arrived in Europe — a season of long days and the perfect time to explore beautiful city trips across this stunning continent. But where should you go during this period, and how do you plan such a trip?
There are countless great city trips to take, and of course, it's possible all year round — but we’re happy to share some fun tips, tricks and inspiration to help you on your way. Let’s dive into a few exciting options!

When planning a city trip in spring or early summer, the first question to ask yourself is: what are you looking for? We come from the Netherlands, which often means we've just had a long, rainy winter — and we’re definitely in need of some sunshine. That’s why a southern destination is always our first choice in spring. Luckily, there’s plenty to choose from: whether it’s Greece, Spain, Italy, Portugal, or the south of France… you're guaranteed a trip full of delicious food, great wine, and lots to see! In short — always a recipe for success! But of course, there are many more amazing options for a short and sweet city break.

The timing is also an important factor. Some prefer a long weekend away to use as few vacation days as possible, while others are less restricted and choose a midweek for better prices. There’s something for everyone. If you go during the weekend, keep in mind that many shops are closed on Sunday or Monday, though terraces and museums often remain open.

Most cities are easy to reach — by direct flight, train, or even car — making planning quite simple. Travel agencies also offer package deals combining flights and hotels, which makes everything even easier. Don’t forget to check the flight or train times carefully — they can be misleading. You may find a great deal at a low price, but if you arrive late on the first day and return very early on the last day, you’ll end up having less time to enjoy the trip itself!

What makes city trips so great? 1. You're only away for a few days — often for a good price — and after the very first day, you're already in holiday mode. Every city has a piece of history that helped shape the European continent throughout the centuries. Some more than others, but every city trip offers the chance to discover new history through museums and architectural landmarks. 2. You experience a new culture and immerse yourself in a unique part of Europe. You stroll through the streets, admire the architecture, and can easily learn a few words in a new language. 3. And of course — the food! City trips go hand in hand with cafés, restaurants, bars, and a great opportunity to enjoy local specialties for a few days. Whether it's local wines, cheeses, tapas, liqueurs, or pasta — delicious! 4. Last but not least, exploring a city often means walking or cycling many kilometers without even realizing it. Great for getting some exercise — and much needed after all those tasty culinary treats!

Great cities to visit in spring or early summer include: Barcelona – the sunny city where art, sports, beach, and urban life come together. Rome – a warm, beautiful open-air museum filled with history and charm. Prague – another open-air museum; a lively city full of beautiful buildings. Lisbon – a charming, authentic, and musical coastal city. Florence – a wonderful city bursting with history and stunning architecture. Venice – a uniquely situated city that lives in harmony with water.

In our city trip series, we’ll take you through the most exciting cities in Europe — as much as possible based on our own experiences. Though, it is quite addictive… new cities keep appearing on our wishlist that we’d love to visit someday!