Holiday Ideas For A Long Weekend Away
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Searching for some inspiration for your next short holiday? With limited time, you’ll be looking to maximise your enjoyment and the type of escape you choose plays a vital part in that.
Consider these getaways with your friends or family to make a more informed decision.
1. City Break

City breaks are enjoyed by almost half of Brits, according to a YouGov survey. Paris, Rome and Barcelona are wonderful destinations, as you spend your days visiting sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum or Gaudí’s Sagrada Família. In the evenings, indulge in regional delicacies at charming cafés or Michelin-starred restaurants like Benoit and Batea.
If these three iconic locations aren’t quite right for your group, you’ll find plenty of other incredible options across Europe.
To make the most of your trip, focus on a few must-see attractions and explore neighbourhoods on foot. Many cities are compact and walkable or have well-connected public transport, making it relatively easy to maximise your time.
2. Beach Relaxation

If lounging by the sea is your idea of the perfect weekend, this might be just what you need. Places like the Amalfi Coast or the Costa del Sol offer sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters and delicious seafood.
Consider renting one of the many villas in Spain for a more secluded and comfortable stay. They’re a great way to enjoy your visit with the comforts of home, private pools and beautiful views.
These breaks can feel crowded if you visit when schools are out for summer, so think about going in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is warm, but the atmosphere is more peaceful.
3. Countryside Escape

According to Consumer Intelligence, over 50% of Brits will go on at least one staycation this year. If you’re part of this group, the countryside could be the best location.
The Lake District is usually a hit with families thanks to its picturesque landscapes, opportunities for outdoor activities and charming villages like Keswick waiting to be explored.
Escapes to the country can take place abroad if you want to push the boat out. Regions like Tuscany in Italy and Provence in France are superb for a laid-back time filled with serene walks, wine-tasting tours or simply enjoying the tranquillity of rural surroundings.
4. Adventure Trip
If you’re craving excitement and thrills, an activity holiday could be ideal. Chamonix in the French Alps is a skier’s delight, offering a range of coloured runs and an exciting après-ski scene. Alternatively, head to Lake Bled for breathtaking cycle routes that let you discover the incredible scenery at your own pace. Or go hiking in the Romanian Carpathian Mountains to see wildlife and summit peaks of 2,500m altitude.
For a full-on adventure weekend, consider staying in an activity-focused accommodation. They tend to have lots of the equipment you need and may have qualified experts to show you the ropes.
Remember, your getaway is supposed to be fun for your entire group. Discuss all the options you have and come to a decision together to ensure everyone’s excited and happy about it.
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Long weekends is pretty much all we have done since our daughter was born 9 years ago but I love them. We have spent weekends away in Devon, Cornwall etc. They can be just as fun as going abroad.
I love Devon and Cornwall as well – such beautiful places to go and visit!
Would love a countryside break x
For me, it’s either a city break or country hotel
Ohh both of those are just lovely ideas.
Mobility issues limit me to city breaks so I have the option to use a wheelchair.
I like all of them and I guess it depends on the weather but I feel the countryside always make me feel better.
There’s something about being out in nature isn’t there? I do like to be away from it on holiday.
Barcelona is a great destination for a city break.
Oh I bet that would be lovely to spend some time exploring too!
Amsterdam is a great long weekend city break – with loads to do and see and easy to get there.
We were meant to go a few years ago and I can’t remember what came up but we never went which is a shame.
I love a short break. I’m not into anything adventurous but a City break is perfect. Some retail therapy and a stay in a nice hotel suits me fine and of course the company is important, my daughters are always willing to accompany me
Definitely all about the company, I love a good spa break as well – sometimes you just need to put your feet up and relax I think.