The best city breaks in Europe with rural escapes

21.07.2023 - 07:35 / roughguides.com / In Europe

City breaks can be hard to plan. You want it all – art, culture, quirky hotels, top restaurants – but also the chance to relax. Fortunately, there are enough cities in Europe where you can find it all. These city breaks in Europe don’t skimp on urban culture, and have nature on their doorstep for when you need a breath of fresh air.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

Reykjavík is the ultimate destination for city breaks in Europe. This diminutive capital brims with Nordic-chic boutiques and cool hotels yet lies just a few hours' drives from the country's most earth-shatteringly gorgeous landscapes.

Catch a ferry out to the islands of Viðey, Lundey or Akurey to see thousands of breeding puffins; hike up the «city mountain» Mount Esja; and explore the still-active Eyjafjallajökull volcano, just 90 minutes outside of town.

You can also use Reykjavík as your base before embarking on the famous Golden Circle. This route encompasses the geysers at Geysir and the roaring waterfalls at Gullfoss. There are also fantastic bathing opportunities in thermal pools such as Fluðir or Laugarvatn along the way.

Back in the city, make time for Reykjavík's growing number of innovative restaurants, many of which use locally sourced ingredients such as cloudberries or lamb. Try Michelin-starred DILL or the more affordable Sjávarbarinn for freshly caught seafood.

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For a city break with rural escape, it's hard to beat Iceland © Diana Jarvis

You’ll find some of Germany's most beautiful architecture in Munich, Bavaria's historic capital. Start by exploring the fifteenth-century Gothic Frauenkirche, or climb the tower of St Peterskirche, the oldest church in the city, for unparalleled views over the rooftops.

Other worthwhile sights include the Pinakothek trio, three galleries each dedicated to a different era of art. Or take time to explore the futuristic BMW museum and Schloss Nymphenburg on the outskirts of the city.

Munich’s green heart is the Englischer Garten, one of Europe’s largest urban parks, designed by Sir Benjamin Thompson in 1789. If you’re looking to explore further afield, hire a bike and spend a day cycling south along the river Isar, detouring to the lakes of Sternbergersee or Ammersee for a spot of swimming.

Alternatively, head north and you’ll find yourself on more rugged trails through forested areas. All S-Bahn, underground and regional railways take bikes, so you don’t have to worry too much about the return journey.

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Munich's picturesque city squares are delightful to explore on your city breaks in Europe ©/CC0

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