Top 5 European Cities for a Spring Weekend Getaway in 2026
Spring presents an ideal opportunity to explore European cities without the intense summer heat and overwhelming tourist crowds. The shoulder season provides a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and reduced visitor numbers, making it an excellent time for a quick escape. Here are five standout destinations for a memorable long weekend break on the continent this spring.
Split, Croatia
Often overshadowed by Dubrovnik, Split serves as a compelling alternative with abundant attractions. Direct and affordable flights from the UK make it easily accessible. While it can be a gateway for island-hopping adventures, Split itself is a destination worth exploring in depth.
The city is home to the vast Roman Diocletian's Palace, constructed between 295 and 305 CE, comprising over 200 buildings and ranking among the largest surviving Roman structures. This ancient site remains vibrant, housing thousands of residences and businesses within its walls. The picturesque Riva waterfront, lined with boats, offers a scenic promenade for leisurely walks. Spring visits are particularly rewarding due to milder temperatures and fewer tourists.
Where to stay: Hotel Ambasador, located just a five-minute walk from Split's UNESCO-listed Old Town and overlooking the Riva Promenade, is perfectly situated for a short city break. This ultra-modern hotel features stunning views from every room, along with a tranquil spa and a rooftop infinity pool. Spring rates for a classic room with a street view start from £131 per night.
Saint-Tropez, France
British Airways is launching a new direct flight route from London City Airport to Toulon Saint-Tropez in May, providing easier access to this glamorous part of the French Riviera. Renowned for its luxury yacht-filled marina and status as a playground for the affluent, Saint-Tropez offers opportunities for people-watching, relaxation at upscale beach clubs, shopping, and enjoying fine wines with Mediterranean vistas.
Visitors can wander through the narrow streets of La Ponche, the historic fishing district, unwind on the famous Pampelonne Beach in Ramatuelle, or stroll through the iconic Place des Lices.
Where to stay: Lou Pinet boasts an unbeatable location adjacent to Place des Lices, featuring one of the largest swimming pools in Saint-Tropez, a luxury spa, and top-class dining options. Nightly rates begin at £479 on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
València, Spain
With summer temperatures that can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, spring is an optimal time to visit València. The city enjoys over 300 sunny days annually, with March typically experiencing only about three rainy days, ensuring favourable weather for exploration. Despite catastrophic floods in 2024, València has remained open to visitors and offers a blend of rich history in its Old Centre and impressive golden sandy beaches.
La Malvarrosa beach provides a lively promenade with bars and restaurants for people-watching, while La Patacona offers a quieter alternative. For a wilder experience, the dune-backed shores of El Saler and La Devesa, located within the Albufera Natural Park, are excellent choices.
Where to stay: Novotel Valencia Lavant is a 15-minute walk from the downtown area, featuring a rooftop pool and a Sky Bar with impressive views. This hotel is particularly family-friendly, offering 66 connecting rooms and 24 family rooms. Spring prices for a standard double room start from £134 per night.
Florence, Italy
Florence, the Renaissance city, is a must-visit for enthusiasts of history, art, and architecture. Direct flights to Florence and nearby Pisa facilitate easy access. This walkable city is perfect for a weekend break, and spring provides more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds for sightseeing.
The city boasts an exceptionally high concentration of art galleries, with highlights including the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, Ospedale degli Innocenti, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's famous David statue. Often described as an 'open-air museum,' Florence reveals masterpieces of Italian sculpture in public spaces along its alleyways and cobbled streets.
Where to stay: Il Tornabuoni, charmingly located in a 13th-century palace just steps from the Duomo and the Arno River, combines historic architecture with contemporary interiors. Double rooms are available from £349 per night on a bed-and-breakfast basis for two people sharing.
Athens, Greece
Visiting Athens in the peak of summer can result in a sweaty and crowded experience, but spring offers temperatures ranging from 16 to 25 degrees Celsius, generally dry conditions, and ideal weather for all-day sightseeing or beach visits.
Key historical sites to explore include the 3,000-year-old Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The Ancient Agora, dating back to the 6th century BC and once the heart of Greek city life, is another must-see. Beyond ancient ruins, modern Athens thrives with street art, cultural attractions, and a dynamic culinary scene, making for an exciting long weekend break.
Where to stay: Opening in April, Conrad Athens The Ilisian offers sweeping views of the Acropolis, the largest pool landscape in central Athens, and an urban rooftop garden complete with a running track. Rooms start from £349 per night on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
