2024 European Summer City-Break | 10 Best Cities to Visit this Summer

2024 European Summer City-Break | 10 Best Cities to Visit this Summer

Charlotte Tricoire
If you're looking for a city escape to live your European Summer dream, you've come to the right place! This is my 100% honest opinion of my 10 favorite European cities to visit in Summer. I see lots and lots of guides out there suggesting Paris (hello, has someone heard of the Olympic Games taking place?), Madrid (if you love 45° weather I guess) or Lisbon (great choice if you want to be 1 or 100 000 tourists). While these are all great destinations year-round, I don't think Summer is the right season to visit them. Personally, I'd go there in Spring or Autumn, not during the high season. Full disclosure, this is a no Greece, no Italy guide. You'll only find cities that I love, and I think are worth going to discover if you're looking for a short city-escape this Summer. What will you find in this guide? 📅 Recommended trip duration ☀️ Weather info 💰 Cost, $, $$ or $$$ 👉 Top 3 Activities in each city ⛰️ Top 3 Day-trip from each city 😴 $, $$, and $$$ accommodation options Which cities are you going to discover? 1. Kraków, Poland 🇵🇱 2. London, UK 🇬🇧 3. Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) 🇨🇿 4. Lyon, France 🇫🇷 5. San Sebastián, Spain 🇪🇸 6. Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺 7. Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹 8. Brussels, Belgium 🇧🇪 9. Tallinn, Estonia 🇪🇪 10. Edinburgh, Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 PS: Don't forget to click on each destination to get my personal insights on each city! But, if you really don't care about my life, which I understand, we don't know each other, you can skip ahead.
Updated ago
21
Share

Kraków, Poland 🇵🇱

Kraków
@charlottetricoire
The party scene in Kraków is insane, but not as insane as the value you get for your money in drinks, food, and everything else. This is definitely the place to go if you want to meet people, make friends, learn about history, take romantic pictures and party hard. WARNING: I know an incredibly high amount of people (me included) who have fallen in love in Kraków. This city has been nicknamed by my group of friends "Kraków city of love". You've been warned.
Add to
Details

Kraków, a charming city in Poland, comes alive in the summer with its vibrant energy and rich history. With cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and a bustling market square, there's something magical about exploring this city during the warmer months. 

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F).

💰 COST: Kraków is generally $, offering good value for accommodation, dining, and activities.

🍽️ FAVORITE FOOD TO TRY: Pierogi Ruskie

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Wawel Royal Castle
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Memorial and Museum Auschwitz II-Birkenau
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Kraków Old Town
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Wieliczka Salt Mine
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Kazimierz Dolny
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Tatra Mountains
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Greg & Tom Party Hostel
@charlottetricoire
With Breakfast and Dinner Included this is THE most value you're gonna get for your money! Mind you, this is a PARTY hostel, this means lots of fun, but also lots of noise. You've been warned. With great staff and activities such as city tours, pub crawls and drinking games, this is the best place to make friends if you're solo traveling or traveling with a small group of friends. PS: if you stay at BEER House, they include Free Beer with Dinner.
Add to
Details
Nowy Bieżanów
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Girls Hostel
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

London, UK 🇬🇧

London
@charlottetricoire
I'll die on this hill, London is one of my favorite cities EVER. I've lived there, and I wouldn't do it again because it's a little bit too intense for me. However, this is one of my favorite city-breaks destination. I'd 100% recommend staying in a hostel while you're in London, just because Hotel prices are insane. If you're a girl, join the page "Host a Sister" on Facebook and ask if anyone would be willing to host you during your trip.
Add to
Details

London is a dynamic metropolis bursting with culture, history, and endless entertainment options during the summer months. From iconic landmarks to lush parks and vibrant neighborhoods, there's something for everyone in this bustling city. 🎡

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F).

💰 COST: London is $$$, with higher prices for accommodation, dining, and attractions, but there are also plenty of free or budget-friendly activities to enjoy.

🍽️ FAVORITE FOOD TO TRY: Full English Breakfast or Indian Curry

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

The British Museum
@charlottetricoire
Between Greek antiquities, relics from ancient Egypt and archaeological wonders from the Near East, you'll travel around the world and through the ages on this unique visit. Of course, I suggest you spend a morning here, but you can lose yourself for much longer! Just make sure you don't get locked in for the night... If your name isn't Ben Stiller, the cursed Egyptian tablets and key-stealing monkeys may give you a run for your money.
Add to
Details
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
@charlottetricoire
Ever wish you could visit a museum where you didn't have to tell your kids not to run around? At Frameless, we'd go so far as to say that children are encouraged to let off steam. That's right, in this immersive art gallery where paintings come to life from floor to ceiling, everyone is encouraged to live and experience art as they wish. Discover the works of over 29 well-known and acclaimed artists in images and music, take incredible photos and simply learn.
Add to
Details
lastminute.com London Eye
@charlottetricoire
Expert tip: remember to book your ticket online in advance, as it will only cost you £25.50, compared with £33 on the day.
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Windsor Castle
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Add to
Details
Hilton London Paddington
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Vintry and Mercer
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

🇬🇧 More about London:

Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) 🇨🇿

Add to
Details

Prague, often called the "City of a Hundred Spires," exudes charm and beauty in the summer months. With its stunning architecture, picturesque river views, and lively beer gardens, it's a dream destination for travelers. 🍻

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

💰 COST: London is $$$, with higher prices for accommodation, dining, and attractions, but there are also plenty of free or budget-friendly activities to enjoy.

🍽️ FAVORITE FOOD TO TRY: This amazing Czech pastry called: trdelnik

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Prague Castle
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
River Rink Karlín
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Old Town Square
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Český Krumlov
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Karlštejn Castle
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Karlovy Vary
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Prague Dream Hostel
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Charles Bridge Economic Hostel
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
THE MANES Boutique Hotel Prague
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

Lyon, France 🇫🇷

Lyon
@charlottetricoire
If you hadn't already guess by my name, I'm French. I'm from Paris and let me tell you I LOVE LYON 10x more than Paris. This city has it all, the big city attractions and the small city vibes. People are super nice, they're probably gonna make an effort with you if your French is shit, and there is just this neighborly vibe all across town.
Add to
Details

Lyon, nestled in the heart of France, is a culinary and cultural delight in the summertime. With its historic architecture, gourmet cuisine, and scenic riverfront, it's a city that captivates visitors with its French charm. 🥖

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F).

💰 COST: Lyon is $$, offering a range of affordable and mid-range options for accommodation, dining, and activities.

🍽️ FAVORITE FOOD TO TRY: Are you gonna make me choose? Everything! But no joke, get a fresh baguette sandwich in any bakery, my favorite ones have 'brie' or goat cheese in it! - or just go on the food tour I suggested!

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

French Food Tour
@charlottetricoire
A local guide will take you on a 4-hour tour of Vieux Lyon where you can sample delectable cuisine and explore some of the city's oldest district's highlights. Find out more about the ancient weavers' and silk merchants' hidden passages, or traboules. Visit five distinct tasting stops to meet local culinary heroes and learn everything about their produce. Taste around 14 distinct recipes and ingredients to entice your palate and stimulate your senses. You will eat samples that are comparable to a normal meal. Discover the town's historic alleys, the Cathedral of St. Jean, and the well-known passages as you meander around it. Your tour guide will show you the city's top attractions as well as the most genuine places to eat.
Add to
Details
Guided Sightseeing Cruise
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Pérouges Cité Médiévale
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Wine Tasting Tour in the Beaujolais
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Traboule “Maison du Crible – Tour Rose”
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

San Sebastián, Spain 🇪🇸

Donostia-San Sebastian
@charlottetricoire
Never have I ever heard of someone who doesn't like San Sebastián. This city is a city which, kind of like Winston in New Girl, is, and I quote, “lovable as hell”. Summer is just the perfect time to go to San Sebastián because the weather is perfect, not too hot, and not too cold either. People are super nice, it has great places to eat, from gastro-bars to 2€ tapas (or pintxos as they call them) and a great night-life. If you have a car, I'm begging you, you need to go and discover the Basque countryside, you won't be disappointed.
Add to
Details

San Sebastián, located in Spain's Basque Country, is a coastal gem known for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and lively atmosphere in the summer months. With its charming old town and picturesque bay, it's a destination that's sure to steal your heart. 🏖️

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 19°C to 25°C (66°F to 77°F).

💰 COST: San Sebastián is $$, offering a mix of affordable and upscale options for accommodation, dining, and activities.

🍽️ FAVORITE FOOD TO TRY: Tapas or Ice-cream here 👇

Gelatería Boulevard
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Pintxos (Tapas) & Wine Tour
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Beach of La Concha
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Pagoetako parke naturala
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Add to
Details
Pension Aida
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Pensión del Mar
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺

Budapest
@charlottetricoire
I'm not gonna lie, when I was in Budapest I was mostly partying and I have a very blurry and happy memory of my passage there. But that doesn't mean I don't know what I'm talking about! I've got it from reputable sources that this is one of the best cities to visit in Europe. Because of how affordable, beautiful and genuinely welcoming the capital of Hungary is.
Add to
Details

Budapest, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Danube," is a stunning city with a rich history, thermal baths, and architectural wonders. In the summer, its riverside promenades and outdoor cafes buzz with energy and excitement. 🌉

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 17°C to 29°C (63°F to 84°F).

💰 COST: Budapest is $, offering great value for accommodation, dining, and attractions compared to other European capitals.

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Add to
Details
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Avenue Hostel
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Maverick Hostel & Ensuites Budapest
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Boutique Residence Budapest
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹

Add to
Details

Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria, is a cultural treasure trove with its magnificent palaces, classical music heritage, and charming coffeehouses. In the summer, its parks and gardens beckon visitors to enjoy outdoor concerts and picnics. 🎶

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

💰 COST: Vienna is $$$, with higher prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment, reflecting its status as a cultural capital.

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Schönbrunn Palace
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Vienna Music Society
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Belvedere Palace
@charlottetricoire
The Belvedere in Vienna is one of the leading museums worldwide. Its famous art collection includes works ranging from the Middle Ages to the present day. The unique complex, with its two palaces of the Upper and Lower Belvedere and extensive gardens, is one of the most stunning Baroque architectural marvels in the world. Highlights include the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings as well as prominent works from the periods of Viennese Biedermeier, Austrian Baroque, Vienna around 1900, and French Impressionism. Now, for the first time in decades, the museum will once again host large-scale special exhibitions that you can admire on your visit.
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Hotel Zeitgeist Vienna Hauptbahnhof
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

Brussels, Belgium 🇧🇪

Brussels
@charlottetricoire
The first time I visited Brussels, I was a broke 18 yo student, going for my first-ever trip in a hostel with my 2 BFFs and got my first ear-piercing. As you can imagine, it wasn't all glitter and fanciness, and yet, I had one of the best trips of my life. I ate THE BEST FRIES OF MY ENTIRE LIFE, and that was it for me! The city is small for a European capital, but it's one of the best city breaks you could go on. Lose yourself in the streets, eat waffles for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and simply enjoy the vibe of this wonderful city.
Add to
Details

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the heart of the European Union, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and impressive architecture. In the summer, its lively squares and outdoor markets come alive with activity. 🍺

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 13°C to 22°C (55°F to 72°F).

💰 COST: Brussels is $$, offering a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options to suit different budgets.

🍽️ FAVORITE FOOD TO TRY: Fries from this place 👇

Café Georgette
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Add to
Details
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Vintage Hotel Brussels
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

Tallinn, Estonia 🇪🇪

Add to
Details

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a fairytale-like city with its well-preserved medieval old town, cobbled streets, and Gothic architecture. In the summer, its waterfront and parks are perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. 🏰

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: June to August sees temperatures ranging from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F).

💰 COST: Tallinn is $$, offering good value for accommodation, dining, and activities compared to other European capitals.

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Add to
Details
Kadriorg Park
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

Citybox Tallinn
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
RING Sport Hostel
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

Edinbrugh, Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Add to
Details

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city of contrasts, blending medieval Old Town charm with elegant Georgian architecture and lush green spaces. In the summer, its festivals, outdoor concerts, and scenic views make it a delightful destination. 🏰

☀️ SUMMER AVERAGE: JJune to August sees temperatures ranging from 10°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F).

💰 COST: Edinburgh is $$, offering a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options to suit different budgets.

👉 TOP ACTIVITIES

Edinburgh Castle
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Arthur's Seat
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

⛰️ DAY-TRIP RECOMMENDATION

Add to
Details
Add to
Details

😴 WHERE TO STAY?

CoDE Pod – THE CoURT
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
Princes Street Hostel
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details
89 The Merchants
@charlottetricoire
Add to
Details

Looking for more stuff to do this Summer?

* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Charlotte Tricoire
Foodie, digital nomad, and travel blogger, since everyone always asks: 'do you have any recommendations for [insert destination]?', I figured, why not regroup my personal favs into travel guides? Originally from Paris, as a Digital Nomad, I've been on the move quite a bit these last few years! I've lived in London, Madrid, Kraków, Melbourne, Wellington, Austin, and now Valencia. I'm not pretending to be an expert in each city, but as an explorer, I like to find hidden gems that I'm happy to share with you! To be honest, I aslo created a wonderful network of friends across the globe, whom I've asked for their "local favorites" to complete my guides. Hope you enjoy!
Send A Tip
Support Charlotte Tricoire’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Charlotte Tricoire 2024 Help Privacy Terms Copyright Become a Seller Seller Academy About Careers Blog Explore Places