Best city breaks for culture lovers

Whether it's for a long weekend or the best part of the week, immersing yourself in the culture of a new city could be just what you need. And who knows, you could even partake in a spot of souvenir shopping while you're there...

Barcelona

Barcelona has so much to offer and is a way to experience first-class culture, art, cuisine and retail therapy all in one trip. From a stroll along La Rambla to marvelling at Gaudi's modernist architecture, you won't be short of things to do in this vibrant and cultural city. Must-sees include the Picasso Museum, Artigas Gardens and, of course, the famous La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's stunning unfinished cathedral.

Discover Spain and her beautiful islands on an unforgettable holiday with Saga. Find out more about holidays to Spain here

London

Why not skip the airport queues and explore the wonderful capital city that sits right on our doorstep? Take some time to enjoy the sights of the instantly-recognisable landmarks, journey to Covent Garden for a spot of shopping, eat in one of the many irresistible eateries, then head to the West End to watch an award-winning production.

Looking to get away from the tourist traps to see a different side to the city? London is full of small, less crowded museums that are often overlooked in favour of popular destinations such as the British Museum and V&A. Instead of another trip to one of these large museums, why not visit one of the the Sir John Soane's Museum, which displays the architect's own architectural drawings as well as his antiquities collection, or the charming Pollock's Toy Museum on Scala Street, which houses over 4,000 vintage toys.

Even if you’ve lived your whole life in the UK, there’s always somewhere new to discover. Find out more here

Rome

Commonly known as the 'Eternal City', Rome is a city escape that everyone has to experience once in their lifetime. Visit the iconic Colosseum, walk up the 138 steps of Scalinata di Spangna and appreciate the architectural beauty of the famous squares and fountains.

Foodies will love it here, too – there are plenty of fabulous eateries dotted across the city; you'll never think of Italian food in the same way again.

Discover more about Italy and everything it has to offer. Find out more here

Prague

With its skyline of twirling spires, ornate facades and terracota rooftops, Prague is a beautiful city whatever the weather, and this is why it has been enticing visitors all year round for decades. A city steeped in history, it's a feast for the eyes with its fantastic architecture blended with contemporary touches. Make sure you catch the funicular train up to Petrin Hill and pay a visit to Prague Castle – the largest ancient castle in the world, and perhaps fit in one of the many classical music performances happening around the city.

Fill up on traditional Czech food, including goulash, dumplings, roasted pork and chlenicek, a filling open sandwich available in many lunch spots across the city. Leave plenty of room for fruit dumplings or warm apple strudel. 

Experience sophistication and relaxation in the Czech Republic, a land that brims with culture, class and calm. Discover it for yourself

Berlin

History and modernity combine in a wonderful way in Berlin. Home to many historic and cultural landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag Building, there's also a sense of the 'now' with striking street art and trendy bars and coffee shops on every street corner, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Take a step back into the not-so-distant past with a visit to some of the fascinating remnants of the Cold War, including vast nuclear bunkers hidden under the streets and accessible by one of the arranged tours, the Berlin Hohenschönhausen Memorial (a preserved Stasi prison) and the striking Tiergarten, a Soviet War Memorial of monolithic proportions.

Visit Germany for atmospheric castles, opulent palaces and Alpine peaks. Find out more about our German holidays here

Ghent

At under two hours by car from Calais the charming Belgian city of Ghent makes an easy daytrip or weekend city break for those comfortable driving in Europe. Walk through the cobbled streets and over the arched bridges, taking in the sights of this historic medieval city. Visit one of the city's famous markets, which are particularly special in the run-up to Christmas, and – of course – visit one of the many wonderful chocolate shops and stock up.

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