- Florence, Italy
- Mallorca, Spain
- Marrakech, Morocco
- Algarve, Portugal
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- London, United Kingdom
Flight time from London: 2 hours 5 minutes
Nothing short of breathtaking,
Florence is a magical city that oozes Renaissance flair and magnificence. Situated in the
Italian region of Tuscany, the small but mighty city transports you back in time as you wander through historical streets, marvel at world-class art and eat at family-established restaurants.
Wander the piazzas and weave between iconic architecture and alongside the brimming backwaters. Visit the churches that dominate the landscape, whether it's Santa Maria Novella, San Marco or Santa Croce and admire Brunelleschi's dome of Il Duomo, the city's iconic landmark.
Florence is perfect for a weekend break. With the city being compact and the most popular attractions within a comfortable walking distance, you'll be able to explore as your heart desires and know you're not missing any of the best sights.
Flight time from London: 2 hours 20 minutes
Mallorca is a popular destination all year round, with it being just a few hours on a plane and boasting comfortable and warm temperatures annually. Sitting off the east coast of
Spain, Mallorca is part of the Balearic Islands along with Menorca and Ibiza and is the perfect spot for a quick escape from everyday life, especially if you're looking to indulge in an all-inclusive holiday.
The blog
The Smooth Escape encapsulates the beauty and charm of Mallorca on their website: "Lying in the western Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in Spain. Also known as Majorca, the island is often associated with beach resorts and a vibrant party scene. However, Mallorca has so much more to offer if you make an effort to venture out of the main tourist zones. From coastal mountain ranges and dramatic gorges to fairytale-like villages and beaches with crystalline water, there's no shortage of amazing places to include in your Mallorca itinerary!"
Whether you're looking to stay in the historic capital of Palma or venture to coastal locations like Port De Soller, you'll find historic buildings, magical churches and fabulous rocky hillsides. Palma City is a magical destination where historic and modern collide, where outside dining juxtaposes the tall town-house style buildings and where sand and the sea lap against the city boundaries.
If you're looking for some winter sun or a summer escape that is perfect for just a few days, look no further than Mallorca.
Flight time from London: 3 hours 40 minutes
Marrakech is a city of vibrancy and colour, sitting on the north coast of
Africa. Most iconically known for its bustling square, Djemaa el Fna, where market sellers offer local cuisine and fragrant spices alongside snake charmers, henna tattoo artists and fortune-tellers.
Uncover the majesty of the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque as well as the sprawling medina and Jardin Majorelle. Tourists often flock to the exciting and enthusiastic Medina for souvenirs like handwoven rugs, teapots, lanterns and brightly coloured slippers.
A weekend getaway is never really enough to explore this bustling metropolis in
Morocco, but it will give you a tantalising taste of what the city has to offer in just a few days.
Flight time from London: 2 hours 55 minutes
The Algarve is a shining jewel on the southern coast of
Portugal and the perfect weekend short break and family holiday location. Just under 3 hours away and one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations, it's known for its sweeping bays, gorgeous sandy beaches and secluded coves, and being home to some of the best golf courses in the world.
Vilamoura is a charming location where
luxury villas sit atop the cliffs above the sandy shores that are lined with local restaurants and atmospheric bars.
If you're looking to enjoy a luxury holiday but only have a few days, then there is no better location than the sunny shores of the Algarve.
Flight time from London: 2 hours 50 minutes
Dubrovnik is a modest flight from London but is far-flung in terms of the stunning sights and warm climes. Located on the coast of
Croatia, the city is popular with history lovers and sun-seekers alike, with the Old City being a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site.
Travel blogger
Maddison's Footsteps explores her time in Dubrovnik on her blog: "This enchanting city, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', boasts a rich history, stunning architecture and mesmerising coastal views that left us all breathless. We spent our time devouring fresh seafood, sipping on local wine and enjoying the beauty and history that surrounded us. Oh, and did I mention I was majorly fangirling over all the Game of Thrones filming locations?"
London is the perfect location for a
long weekend break in the UK and has so much to offer, no matter your interests. The United Kingdom is full of fascinating cities with history and culture to burn, but no city is more magical than London, with its ancient alleys, bustling streets and exciting activities.
Whether you want to browse the luxury shops of Marylebone or Chelsea, take a wander through Hyde Park, or watch a show in the West End before the sun sets over the skyline, you can do it here. Whether it is a family holiday or a long weekend break in the UK you're after, then you won't have more fun than in London.