While sun, sand and beachside hotels are hugely popular, recent statistics released by ABTA have revealed that European city breaks are now on par. Both options accounted for 41% of top 10 British holiday types, followed by mountain retreats, music festivals and sporting holidays. According to Only-apartments, the European leader in short term holiday rentals, the trend for city living isn’t going to slow down any time soon.
Alon Eldar, CEO of Only-apartments said, “Staying in the heart of the city is the perfect way for travellers to immerse themselves in the culture of their chosen destination. While central hotels can be extremely expensive, we make an authentic inner city experience possible with our huge selection of holiday apartments in major European cities and hidden gems alike.”
Ljubljana has been pegged by several leading travel magazines as one of 2014’s hottest city break destinations. The forward thinking Slovenian capital is renowned as one of the greenest cities in Europe, offering visitors a chic daytime café culture and lively nightlife scene. This year, Ljubljana celebrates its 2000 year Emona anniversary which will see the city come to life with a 12 month itinerary of Roman themed events. Only-Apartments currently lists 31 apartments in the up and coming Slovenian capital, with prices for a four person studio starting at just £31 per night.
Oozing traditional French charm, the beautiful city of Toulouse is another of Europe’s hidden treasures. The pink tinged stone buildings give the streets a whimsical feel while the fascinating collection of museums, galleries and churches are made for exploring. As expected, the restaurant scene is sublime, not to mention refreshingly affordable compared to the tourist hubs of Paris and Nice.
Christened by travel critics as ‘the Paris of the East,’ the Latvian city of Riga is one of Europe’s most underrated metropolises. The Art-Nouveau architecture and Unesco World Heritage listed Old Town give the city a timeless appeal while the bustling night life and five star restaurant scene keep visitors well entertained.
Blending big-city swagger with traditional Icelandic allure, Reykjavík has emerged as a hugely popular destination with British holidaymakers. With the summer months bringing 22 hours of daylight, it’s the perfect place to soak up Vitamin D while exploring the wealth of trendy cafes, bars and galleries. Nature lovers can venture further afield to the spectacular geothermal pools and snow-capped mountains.
Vibrant and trendy, Budapest is an intriguing blend of old and new. The Hungarian capital is famous for its food and wine which make it the ideal destination for travellers on the search for a decadent city break. Peppered with art nouveau, baroque, neoclassical and eclectic architecture, the city is a history lover’s delight. And with 934 Only-Apartment accommodation options to choose from, visitors are spoilt for choice!
With magnificent architecture, gourmet cuisine and cosmopolitan culture, it’s easy to see why an increasing number of British holidaymakers are choosing cobblestones and art galleries over beaches and deck chairs.
I'm Squibb Vicious, better known as Haydy!
Happiest with a craft beer in hand, eating til my heart is content or exploring somewhere new.
Here you can read about my adventures!