Rather than flying to the ends of the earth, why not treat yourself to a city escape in Europe? Whether you long for the Mediterranean or for culture, there's something for everyone, and at any time of year.

1 ViennaThe most romantic

Voted the "world's most pleasant city" by The Economist in 2019, Austria's beautiful capital remains strangely overlooked. Its historic monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the National Library, one of the most beautiful in the world, and the Habsburg Imperial Palace, former residence of the dynasty and of Princess Sissi. Vienna is an open-air museum.

2 PortoThe most gourmet

Portugal's second city, on the edge of the Atlantic, is two hours from Brussels, an ideal destination for lovers of gastronomy. Visit the cellars and taste the famous Port wines produced in the region. Allow three to four days to enjoy it properly. The dish not to miss: the Francesinha, a kind of croque-monsieur reinvented with meat and cheese.

Rooftops of a historic European city
The rooftops of Europe, as far as the eye can see

3 KrakowThe most different

Classified by UNESCO among the twelve most beautiful cities in the world, Krakow is full of little treasures to discover. The Rynek Główny square, with its pastel façades and sumptuous buildings, is the largest medieval square in Europe. Perched on Wawel Hill, the castle offers panoramic views and transports you into a real fairy tale.

4 PalermoThe sunniest

In Sicily, on the Mediterranean, Palermo prolongs the summer. Temperatures are gentler than at the height of the season, and still allow swimming on the beaches of Santa Flavia. Nearby, the seaside town of Cefalù charms with its Arab-Norman cathedral and its beaches.

A European cityscape under a clear blue sky
Each city, its own character

5 RotterdamThe trendiest

For lovers of contemporary architecture, Rotterdam holds surprises, modern and futuristic. Its cubic houses are the emblem of the city. The Markthal houses the largest covered market in the Netherlands, while the rooftop restaurant Op Het Dak grows its produce in its own kitchen garden.

A good city escape comes down to a few well-chosen addresses: a well-placed hotel, a neighbourhood table, private access to a museum. That is what we add to your weekend.

Dreaming of a European city escape, your way? Let's talk it through with our specialists.

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