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London weekend breaks will whisk you away to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and historical attractions. From Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge to the West End and the London Eye, you’ll be captivated by the iconic features which make this city so mesmerising. Attracting over 30 million tourists each year, London is renowned for its quirky villages and thriving financial industry. Just one walk through the town is enough to understand why ‘The Big Smoke’ is regarded as the capital of capitals.

London is the perfect city break destination, both contemporary and steeped in history, to enjoy a unique blend of culture, art, and shopping. Head up the Shard for a rooftop cocktail, shop till you drop on Oxford Street, or enjoy an in-depth history lesson whilst exploring Trafalgar Square and Westminster Abbey.

Perfect for exploring

Although it’s a prominent place, London can still be explored on foot. If you have a lot of ground to cover, The London Underground (known as the tube) will take you to where you need to be in no time at all. With over 250 tube stations located across the city, you’ll never have to walk too far to hop on a train.

Westminster

With over 2000 years of history behind it, London is home to more landmarks than any other city in the world. For a peek at the most iconic sights, take the tube to Westminster and witness Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Wander over to Westminster Abbey and take in the incredible architecture as you learn about the kings and queens that have stepped foot in this building.

And of course, no trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Walk along The Mall towards the Victoria Memorial and spend some time at the palace gates. You capture some great photos and then continue on to other famous landmarks like Trafalgar Square. Stroll by the River Thames and cross over to the Southbank to ride on the London Eye for stunning views across the city.

London is also renowned for its lush green spaces. Head into Hyde Park and witness the unique ecosystems, memorials, and monuments that this open space is home to. Stretching over 350 acres, it’s the largest of the Royal Parks in London and never fails to look spectacular, whatever the weather.

Camden

For stylish, artsy vibes, head to London Camden Town. This area is always abuzz with people skimming the stalls for hidden treasures to the world-famous Camden Market. As one of the most vibrant spots in the city, visitors come for unique street art, international cuisine at Camden Lock Market and Regent’s Canal in the afternoon sunshine.

Notting Hill

Lined by beautiful pastel-coloured houses and home to Europe’s largest street festival, Notting Hill is much more than an iconic film setting. Write your own love story in this picturesque location as you browse independent shops and stalls at Portobello Market and stop for a bite to eat at one of the chic cafés.

Shoreditch

One of London’s most diverse areas, Shoreditch is renowned for its artisan coffee shops, vintage boutiques, and cocktail bars. Indulge in some street food on Great Eastern Street or head to Brick Lane to sample some of London’s finest curry houses. Marvel at the city’s best street art and enjoy a game of ping pong at Bounce before hitting up some of the best clubs.

Incredible culture

From iconic museums and galleries like the British Museum and the Tate Modern to the West End with its fabulous theatre shows and musicals, London is a mecca for cultural history buffs. It’s also the home of Notting Hill Carnival, an annual street party where colourful parades fill the streets over two days in August.

Besides great nightlife and some incredible restaurants, London is also full of many hidden surprises such as popup rooftop eateries, contemporary art walks, and secret hidden gardens. And who knows, you might be just around the corner from a buzzing buskers festival!

Food and drink

As one of the most influential restaurant cities globally, London’s food and drink scene are like no other. Over the past half a century, the capital has undergone a dramatic shift from traditional dining styles to recipes infused with flavours and influences from neighbourhoods across the city. From Michelin­-starred restaurants to renowned food markets, the capital boasts excellent places to sate your hunger and quench your thirst.

From Club Mexicana to The Athenian, there are many food stalls and markets to explore in London. Located next to Southwark Cathedral, London Borough Market is one of the city’s oldest and largest markets. Here you’ll discover different traders selling food from all over the globe. From delicious doughnuts to fresh pasta and chorizo rolls, you’re bound to find a snack to tantalise your tastebuds.

Unsurprisingly, London has no shortage of incredible restaurants to match the grandeur of the city. Suppose you’re feeling fancy, head over to the famous Sketch restaurant in Mayfair where you can enjoy afternoon tea or a delicious dish from the à la carte menu, all while admiring the venue’s unique interior. Or take a trip to Radio Rooftop in Westminster, where you can witness stunning views across the Thames and sample international tapas while taking in the sunset backdrop.  

Nightlife

From jazzy nightclubs to picturesque rooftop bars, London boasts some seriously cool places to relax when the sun goes down. Each neighbourhood has something different to offer when it comes to the capital’s exciting nightlife scene. Towards the city’s western end, you’ll find luxury bars in Chelsea and Mayfair, such as Beaufort House and No. 11 Pimlico Road. Located in the heart of Belgravia, No. 11 Pimlico boasts a stunning interior and plenty of outdoor seating – the perfect backdrop to your evening of socialising.   

If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, head towards Shoreditch, where you can party the night away in several famous clubs, including Fabric and XOYO. In recent years, this part of the city has totally transformed to become the trendy hotspot it is today. Throw on your dancing shoes and sample the best of London nightlife here.

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We also have travel guides available for all sorts of other city breaks destinations, including: Amsterdam | Edinburgh | Monte Carlo | Tokyo

Barcelona holidays are a fusion of laid-back beach days and vibrant city life. Set on Spain’s northeast coast with a balmy Mediterranean climate, it's the perfect setting for sightseeing or relaxing on its golden sands. It’s also home to centuries of history, so when you’re not exploring Gaudi’s modernist spectacles you could be getting lost in the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter. Now throw in tasty Catalan dishes, one of the world’s most famous football stadiums and amazing green spaces, and you’ve got a city that ticks all the boxes.

6 reasons to visit Barcelona

• Food glorious food: Start your day with freshly baked bread drizzled in olive oil and smeared with tomatoes (pan tumaca), before digging into vegetable stew (escudella) for lunch. As for dinner, it has to be coca! Think of it as a Catalan mini pizza, this flatbread is usually topped with roasted vegetables and sausage. 
• The perfect beach & city combo: If you want the best of both worlds, Barcelona holidays won’t disappoint. Think cutting-edge architecture, trendy fashion stores and narrow cobbled streets fronted by three miles of sun-soaked coastline. 
• Awe-inspiring Gaudi architecture: No trip to Barcelona is complete without admiring the world-renowned Sagrada Familia (let’s face it, you can’t miss it!), quirky Casa Batllo and Park Guell, just some of Antoni Gaudi’s stand-out creations. 
• Historic city centre: It’s easy to lose yourself in Barcelona’s Gothic quarter, and trust us, you want to! These maze-like streets hide some of the city’s oldest restaurants such as Can Culleretes, as well as cocktail lounges, a jaw-dropping 13^th century cathedral and one of Gaudi’s first projects (the street lamps decorating Plaça Reial, one of Spain’s grandest squares). 
• An epic art scene: Whether you’re searching for Picasso masterpieces, murals by Miro or contemporary pieces by independent artists, you’re not short of exhibits to visit. From the Centre of Contemporary Culture to the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
• Football famous: The largest stadium in Europe with a capacity of 100,000, the atmosphere at Camp Nou is electrifying. Catch FC Barcelona in action or bag yourself an exclusive tour. But for trophies, memorabilia and football shirts worn by sports legends, be sure to make a pitstop at its museum. Some stadium tours include an immersive VR experience. Tickets aren’t cheap but children under four can join for free.

Things to do

Barcelona is the ultimate city break destination, surrounded by mountains on one side and the sea on the other. And there are more than enough attractions to fill a long weekend. Walk streets perfect for shoppers and sightseers, where trendy boutiques sit close to Gaudi’s modernist masterpieces and centuries-old churches. It’s right by the Med too, so you can tick off the capital’s biggest sights in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon. Then, when you’ve had enough sun for one day, there are plenty of waterside restaurants serving tasty Catalan seafood. Whatever it is you want from your next city break, Barcelona has it by the bucketload.

A vibrant beach scene

Cool off in the sea atone of Barcelona’s stunning beaches. La Barceloneta is the city’s answer to Miami’s South Beach. There’s always something going on along this 4km long stretch and its buzzing boardwalk is the perfect place to take it all in with restaurants, cafes and chiringuitos (beach bars) overlooking its sands. 

If you want to try some watersports on your Barcelona city break, look no further than Nova Icària. Windsurfing is a must on breezy Med days. Prefer your beach days a little bit more peaceful?  Then, hop on the metro to Bogatell. This Blue Flag beauty is great for relaxing dips and games of volleyball. Once your batteries are recharged, wind down with a drink in La Rambla or the Gothic Quarter.

Cultural treasures

Barcelona’s culture starts with its architecture. From medieval to modernist, the city is the perfect blend of old and new. Fans of Gaudi shouldn't miss a chance to see the skeleton balconies of Casa Batlló and his unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia. But the hillside Park Güell is like stepping inside the artist’s weird but wonderful imagination. From a dragon fountain to an elephant cave and his former home, this iconic green space is one of a kind. For more art-filled attractions, make sure you squeeze in a trip to the Contemporary Art and Picasso Museum.

Over in Ciutat Vella (Old City) you’ll find some of Europe’s best-preserved landmarks. Standing high above the ancient streets, you can’t miss Barcelona Cathedral - the centrepiece of the Gothic Quarter. Besides its well-known buildings, there’s no better way to see the city like a local than a shopping trip at at the Mercat de la Boqueria food market, or watching a home game at the 100,000-seater Camp Nou Stadium.

Catalan roots

Barcelona’s Catalonian origins are an important part of the city. From its own history, language and cuisine, there are so many ways to absorb this unique culture. Festivals are big here, with celebrations across just about every neighbourhood. Plan your Barcelona holidays in autumn and attend two of its biggest events: National Day of Catalonia (11th September) and La Mercè (24th September). Alternatively, food is another great way to get a taste of the city’s Catalan traditions. Look out for popular dishes like escalivada (roasted red peppers, aubergineand onions) or butifarra (a spiced sausage) for the most authentic dining experience.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Balearic Islands | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca

Charming, charismatic and picturesque, Dublin is a place that will welcome you with open arms. This unique capital city combines centuries of history and literature with a young population and contemporary entertainment. Come and walk the enchanting cobbled streets and join the locals for some legendary fun, or craic, as the Irish say.

Spend your time visiting iconic sights and immersing yourself in the rich culture before rounding off your day with a pint of Guinness in a cosy pub. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, couples’ getaway or stag weekend, there’s something for everyone here. And one thing’s for sure: whatever you get up to on your Dublin city break, you’re sure to return feeling relaxed, refreshed and inspired.

Things to do

Dublin holidays mean discovering the city’s deep‐rooted history, listening to old tales from friendly locals and sampling the best Irish beer. The Dublin of today is modern and active: take your family to the zoo, enjoy a fun night out in Temple Bar or try your hand at Irish dancing. The city is located right on the east coast, so trips to the nearby cliffs and beaches are only a short bus ride away.

Vibrant literary history

Ireland’s capital has a celebrated literary past and a history filled with rebels and revolutionaries. Famous wordsmiths such as Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and William Butler Yeats all inhabited the city at one point. Take a stroll down one of Dublin’s canals and discover heritage plaques dedicated to these famous names. Or pay a visit to the Dublin Writers Museum, where you can learn all about the city’s historic literary traditions up until the 1970s.

Art

Although predominantly known as a city encompassed by a rich history, Dublin is also home to a thriving contemporary art scene. From smaller galleries built into Georgian houses to large, cutting‐edge spaces, Dublin’s art venues reflect some of the best modern-day works. Iconic locations such as the Irish Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery reflect the visual arts scene, so they’re well worth visiting.  

Castles, cathedrals and historic buildings

Those with interest in architecture will enjoy discovering some of the city’s finest buildings and historic structures. From Dublin Castle, one of the most important buildings in Irish history, to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland, tour these picturesque sites to soak in the city’s history. Fans of Harry Potter can take a trip to Trinity College Library and witness the inspiration behind the ‘Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry’.

Nature

Dublin city breaks mean enjoying glorious green open spaces where you can have a picnic, feed the ducks, or relax with a good book. Set across 1,750 acres of recreational space, Phoenix Park is Europe’s largest enclosed park and a great place to take a walk. Famous for its deer population, it’s also the home of Dublin Zoo, where visitors can witness the wildlife, including elephants, penguins and much more.

Pubs, clubs, and live music

One of Dublin’s most notable features is its vibrant nightlife. Boasting a youthful atmosphere, you can be sure of a great night out in the city and become surrounded by merriment in spots like Harcourt Street and Camden Street. Whether you end up cutting shapes in an underground club or get stuck into some sean-nós dancing in a traditional Irish pub, you’re sure to have a great time. And wherever the night takes you, you’ll be greeted by cheap alcohol, chatty locals, and outstanding live music around every corner.

Besides its rich history and lush green landscape, Dublin is also renowned for its pubs. If you’re feeling thirsty after a long day of exploration, dip into one of the famous haunts across the city and experience lines of tap in a comfortable, cosy setting.

Famous pubs to enjoy a pint and some craic include O’Donoghues, The Dawson Lounge, and The Palace Bar. A second home for many Dubliners, O’Donoghues pub stands on a historical site in the city and boasts a rich heritage. Head here to sample the best of Dublin’s live music scene with events featuring Irish musicians hosted seven nights a week.

If clubs are more your thing, throw on your dancing shoes and boogie the night away in Opium Club on Wexford Street. A versatile venue spanning three floors, dance to nu‐disco and ambient techno likes until the early hours.

And if you’re lucky enough to be in town for St. Patrick’s Day (otherwise known as Paddy’s Day) on the 17th of March each year, you’re in for a real treat. During this time, Dublin comes alive for the biggest party of the year to give locals and visitors a truly memorable experience.

The ‘Black Stuff’ and Irish cuisine

Dutifully supplying both the Paddy’s Day festivities and the masses of wood-panelled pubs is the iconic ‘Black Stuff’ – Ireland’s national drink, Guinness. Here in Dublin, you can sip the best pint of Guinness and visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about this beverage’s history and how it’s brewed. Discover seven floors packed full of exciting interactive activities before stopping to enjoy a well‐earned pint in the rooftop Gravity Bar.

If you aren’t partial to the Black Stuff, you can always indulge in a fine glass of premiere Irish whiskey instead. One of Europe’s earliest distilled alcoholic beverages, Irish whiskey is exceptionally smooth and boasts an illustrious history. Today, Irish whiskey sales are growing, as are the whiskey brands available, and there are more distilleries open in Ireland now than there have been since the 19th century. Be sure to team your drink of choice with a steaming bowl of Irish stew and authentic soda bread.

Some of the best brands of Irish whiskey include Teeling, Jameson, and Bushmills. For an enjoyable day out, head to Teeling Whiskey Distillery in the heart of Dublin City, where you can experience a tour of the site from a knowledgeable guide and quench your thirst with a selection of tasting options.

More City Breaks

We also have travel guides available for City Breaks destinations, including: Budapest | Monte Carlo | New York | Reyjavik

Holidays to Ireland promise beautiful natural scenery, magnificent architecture and buzzing towns. Also known as the Emerald Isle due to its lush green landscapes, Ireland is a real gem of a holiday location. 

As a country steeped in myth and legend, Ireland boasts a variety of fascinating places to explore. Take a trip to the Giant’s Causeway and learn about Finn McCool, an important figure in Irish mythology. Game of Thrones fans can also visit the locations where much of the series was filmed, such as the Cushendun Caves and Ballycastle.  

Or explore some of Ireland’s vibrant cities where you can relax with a pint of Guinness and witness some incredible historic monuments. Whether you’re visiting as a couple or a group of friends, Ireland holidays promise something for everyone.  

Irish Cities and Towns  

Ireland is home to many charming, charismatic cities and towns. From Dublin’s vibrant atmosphere to Cork’s unrivalled natural landscapes, each city offers something unique to enhance your holiday experience.  

Dublin is located in the eastern-central part of Ireland. This iconic hotspot is defined by idyllic cobblestone streets, interesting museums and a buzzing music scene. Home to the famous Temple Bar and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church, it boasts great culture and history.  

'Shopping fans can enjoy a spot of retail therapy at Brown Thomas and George's Street Arcade. A tour around the Guinness Storehouse is also a must. Discover more about the history of the famed Irish ‘Black Stuff’ and learn how to pour your own pint.  

Situated in the southwest of Ireland, Cork is one of the best places to enjoy Ireland’s beautiful natural scenery. Enjoy a picnic in Fitzgerald Park, perfect for a chilled-out afternoon in the sun. Or take a trip to Spike Island, a place with a fascinating and diverse history.  

Landscape and Nature  

Ireland is a total haven for nature lovers. This picturesque country offers endless photo opportunities, from its rolling hills to its staggering cliff walls that rise out of the ocean. Ireland also has some spectacular mountain ranges that will simply take your breath away, such as the MacGillycuddy's Reeks and the Wicklow Mountains.  

One of the country’s most photo-worthy spots is the Glendalough Valley, otherwise known as ‘the valley of two lakes’. Located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, it’s home to a fascinating Monastic City and a variety of wildlife, including deer and wild goats.  

And of course, holidays in Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast. These are magnificent areas of geological importance and have inspired legends of giants walking over the sea. Marvel at the 40, 000 enormous columns of basalt that form a pavement here – a dramatic sight not to be missed.  

Irish Food and Drink  

Traditional Irish cuisine is made up of family recipes passed down through the generations. The food is hearty and delicious, and there are plenty of different dishes to try.  

Right at the top of your list should be Irish stew, a warming one-pot concoction of mutton and vegetables (including potatoes, which Ireland is famous for). Colcannon is another popular dish consisting of a mashed combination of potatoes, butter and cabbage. Or sample a delicious Boxty, a popular pancake-like potato creation.  

When it comes to drinks, Ireland is well-known for its whiskey and beer. You can enjoy a pint of Jameson Irish Whiskey or Smithwick’s Irish Ale in just about any pub. Irish coffee is another popular beverage, made up of Irish whiskey, hot coffee, sugar and whipped cream.