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Is there anything as delicious as a cheeky long weekend getaway? I don’t think so. The knowledge that you have this little window of time in which to explore, experience, and relax is quite invigorating, and it ends up putting into perspective what it is that you really value most about your travels.
If you’re lucky enough to live in Europe or the UK, like me, then you’re also fortunate enough to have relatively easy access to a horde of exciting destinations, many of which are even close enough for a little weekend escape.
While weekend getaways are a lovely distraction from the humdrum of the working week, they aren’t the time for hiking in the mountains (unless that’s what you plan for the entire trip!), attempting to excavate the history of a sprawling metropolis by visiting every one of its museums or attempting a Bedouin-style trek into the desert.
When you only have a few days at your disposal, you want to visit places that have a lot to offer in a relatively small area: places like these small but altogether charming European cities.
How To Travel When Time Is Tight
Now those of us who are, shall we say, no longer able to be described as “youths” have probably tried several different methods of travel to save on travel time.
Local buses, overnight trains, backpackers’ hostels right in the downtown action…that’s a teenager’s game, or early 20s at the very latest (or, like me… over 35 when I started my 7 year solo trip all over the world :).
But I understand many people are not THAT adventurous and need more comfort. My advice to anyone who needs to travel quickly and seamlessly without compromising on comfort, especially over relatively short distances, is that if you can afford it, even once in your lifetime, travelling by private jet.
Working with a private jet charter company will offer you access to many different kinds of aircraft, from helicopters (I tried one in Australia, and it was one of the most amazing experiences ever!) and prop planes to enormous private passenger planes.
You’ll work with a dedicated agent who will talk you through the options to find the right aircraft for you and your party. What a private aircraft of any size affords you is
- Privacy. Even if your charter company operates out of a commercial airport, you’ll check in at a private counter and board from a private gate. Private airports offer even more privacy, being used only by the airport staff and private jet clients.
- Customization. You can take off at a time that makes sense for wherever you’ll be landing, eat and drink whatever makes your heart sing, and often land closer to your terminal destination rather than at the largest airport in the area.
- A seamless travel experience. No waiting in long queues, no fighting for another flight if yours is overbooked, no delays waiting for one last passenger, and, more often than not, access to concierge services that can help source accommodation, ground transfers, and more.
- Realizing a dream: Let’s be honest, a private plane (or helicopter ride, as I did) is expensive, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget. That I can guarantee!
Long Weekend Worthy Small European Cities
Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt is the place you picture when your mind’s eye sees an Alpine town laden with every paneer of welcoming charm you could imagine.
This UNESCO World Heritage-renowned site is breathtaking in its natural and man-made beauty: the town is surrounded by pristine Alpine wilderness and home to beautifully maintained 16th-century homes.
If you’re a history lover, you’ll adore Halstatt: it’s home to the world’s oldest salt mine, an intriguing ossuary (the Beinhause or Bone House), and many more historical sites. Wander through narrow, ancient village streets, stop for photos at enchanting viewpoints and shops, and visit the Markplatz to take a trip back in time.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges doesn’t get its fair share of travel blogging, and in this case, that’s a good thing. It’s an underrated destination for many reasons: its stunning medieval architecture (still in moment condition), serene canal-side scenery, and delicious beers.
Known amongst travellers as The Venice of the North”, Bruges is a great place for a little romance. Take a canal boat tour at sunset and follow it up with some dining and local chocolates to set the mood.
The cobblestone streets only enhance the fairytale atmosphere. Check out the Markt and Burg Square for a taste of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque gems, and don’t forget to stop for Belgian waffles!
Bled, Slovenia
Another town with fairytale-esque qualities, Bled, is slightly closer to actual fairytale status than Bruges. Why? It has a castle! And my future husband and I went there before he proposed 🙂 See the photo below!
If you want to get outdoors but don’t have to travel miles from town to do it, Bled is an excellent choice. The iconic emerald green glint of Lake Bled just begs for a boat ride…perhaps open to the teardrop-shaped island in the middle of the lake, which is home to a lovely church.
The castle we mentioned, Bled Castle, is perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff overlooking the same lake.
The panoramic views from what historians say is the oldest castle in Slovenia (it dates back to 1011)are guaranteed to take your breath away. Just a short trip from the town itself lies Vintgar Gorge, a natural wonder of vertical cliffs ringed by a 1.6km walkway that offers access to the picturesque Šum Waterfall.
Colmar, France
Wine lovers take note: Colmar is known as the Capital of Alsatian Wines, and oh boy, does it live up to that name. Colmar’s location on the Alsace Wine Route gives it access to premium wines, chiefly white wines such as Gewürztraminer and Riesling.
With the wine trade comes excellent cuisine: the region is known for its traditional winstubs (cosy little taverns), Munter cheese, and classic glammekeuche or tarte flambé.
The unique combination of French and German history makes for lovely sights: half-timbered homes, a scenic canal district, and, in the festive months, enticing, classically European Christmas markets.
Long Weekend Wonders
Each of these destinations offers a lot to do in a relatively small area: from tasty treats to days on the water and historical discoveries just waiting to be made.
All that’s left to do is book your trip…what are you waiting for?