British holidaymakers are increasingly swapping lengthy vacations for shorter city breaks, seeking to explore the world without consuming their entire annual leave allowance. A growing trend sees many tourists opting for getaways lasting just one or two nights, with some even embarking on day trips.
The Quest for Easy Getaways
A new comprehensive study, the Easy Breaks Index created by LateRooms, has identified the most straightforward European cities to navigate quickly from the UK. The research compared 50 popular destinations based on multiple factors including flight duration from UK airports, cost and duration of airport transfers, average hotel prices, and ratings of top attractions.
Max Fox, CEO of From LateRooms, commented on this shifting travel pattern: "People are realising you don't need a full week away to feel like you've had a proper break. A short trip can be just as refreshing when the journey is simple and the city is easy to move around."
He emphasised the crucial elements for a successful short break: "The key is choosing destinations where the airport transfer is quick, the centre is walkable and your hotel is close to the places you want to see. Pack light, stay central and give yourself time to slow down with a coffee or a drink. When you remove the stress from the travel part, even a one or two night break can feel like a real holiday."
Europe's Most Stress-Free City Breaks
1. Krakow, Poland
Kraków has emerged as Europe's most stress-free city break destination, claiming the top spot in the Easy Breaks Index. Flights from major UK airports take under three hours, while the airport train whisks visitors into the city centre in just 17 minutes. With hotels starting at approximately £72 per night and the Old Town being perfectly suited for exploration on foot, it offers exceptional convenience. The Main Market Square boasts an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating from visitors.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen stands out as the quickest city to reach overall, with average flight times of just one hour and 58 minutes from the UK. A 15-minute metro journey completes the journey into the city centre. The Danish capital is renowned for its calm atmosphere and clean, walkable areas, where travellers can easily cycle or wander between attractions like Nyhavn harbour, Tivoli Gardens, and the picturesque canals. However, budget-conscious travellers should note that Copenhagen recently earned the title of Europe's most expensive city break.
3. Prague, Czechia
Prague represents the best value break according to the research, combining low-cost hotels, affordable transfers, and walkable streets filled with numerous free landmarks. Airport transfers cost less than £2, while hotel prices average around £50 per night. The city's layout makes exploration effortless, with the Old Town, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle all situated close together, allowing visitors to maximise their time.
4. Venice, Italy
Venice proves ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, featuring iconic canals, breathtaking views, and a compact centre best explored on foot. Flights from the UK take approximately two hours, followed by a 20-minute express bus journey to the Grand Canal. The city's intimate layout encourages leisurely exploration of quiet side streets, charming bridges, and beautiful waterfront vistas.
5. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Palma offers the most straightforward route to sunshine, with temperatures still reaching around 19 degrees Celsius even in November. Flights from the UK take under three hours, while the airport bus reaches the city in just 20 minutes. The proximity of beaches to the city centre makes it exceptionally easy to enjoy some sun, while visitors can also explore the marina, relax along the coast, or wander through shaded courtyards in the historic old town.
