Planning a short trip can feel overwhelming, especially when Europe offers an abundance of stunning destinations. With limited time, it’s crucial to choose the perfect location that combines accessibility, rich culture, and memorable experiences. We’ve curated a list of the best Europe destinations for short-term travel, offering inspiration for those looking to make the most out of a few days abroad.

Europe’s compact geography, efficient transportation systems, and diverse cultures make it an ideal choice for short trips. In just a few hours, travelers can explore historical landmarks, indulge in local cuisines, and immerse themselves in unique atmospheres. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant city break or a serene retreat, Europe has something for everyone.

Short-term travel refers to trips that are brief in duration, typically lasting a few days to a week. These trips are often characterized by a focus on maximizing experiences within a limited timeframe, making them ideal for weekend getaways, long weekends, or short vacations.

Key Features of Short-Term Travel:

1. Time Efficiency: Travelers often plan compact itineraries to explore as much as possible within a short period.
2. Proximity: Destinations are usually chosen for their accessibility, requiring minimal travel time.
3. Purpose-Driven: Trips are often centered around specific goals, such as visiting a cultural landmark, attending an event, or enjoying relaxation.
4. Cost Consciousness: Short trips can be more budget-friendly, as they often involve fewer overnight stays and limited activities.
5. Flexibility: Many short-term travelers opt for spur-of-the-moment trips due to their ease of planning.

Common Types of Short-Term Travel:

• Weekend Getaways: Quick escapes to nearby destinations.
• City Breaks: Short visits to urban hubs for cultural or leisure experiences.
• Business Trips: Work-related travel with added opportunities for exploration.
• Adventure Escapes: Activities like hiking, skiing, or diving in specific locations.

Short-term travel is an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a quick recharge or new experiences without committing to extended time away from home.

According to the European Travel Council (ETC) survey findings, Mediterranean spots such as Italy, Spain, and Greece make the top destinations on Europe’s travel lists, as 53 percent of 4,003 respondents answered for ETC.

Furthermore, the survey reveals that outdoor places and leisure tourism are the most required type of tourism for this period, with 38 percent of the ‘early-bird travellers’ saying they plan to travel for sunbathing and beach times.

In other words, the top destinations in Europe for short-term travel that are ideal for sun, beach, and relaxing times include the following:

1. Greece Europe Destinations for Short-Term Travel

The country has been applauded for its tourism recovery after welcoming over six million tourists this summer. According to the Greek Minister of Tourism, Haris Theocaris, Greece has been a top destination even for the French, with 450,000 arrivals, who are also known to spend their holidays domestically. Greece has also reached €12 billion in revenues from tourism this year.

• Athens
  • Highlights: Explore the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Plaka district for a deep dive into ancient Greek civilization.
  • Best For: History buffs and culture enthusiasts.
  • Tip: Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill for panoramic city views.
• Santorini
  • Highlights: Famous for its whitewashed buildings, stunning sunsets in Oia, and volcanic beaches.
  • Best For: Romantic getaways or photography enthusiasts.
  • Tip: Visit in the shoulder season (spring or fall) for fewer crowds.
• Crete
  • Highlights: Explore the Palace of Knossos, swim at Elafonissi Beach, and savor traditional Cretan cuisine.
  • Best For: A mix of history, nature, and gastronomy.
  • Tip: Rent a car to explore the island’s diverse landscapes efficiently.

2. Spain

About 8.1 percent of respondents are planning or have visited Spain this summer, marking a 29 percent decrease compared to the last survey. However, the official data from Spanish authorities reveals that the country welcomed around five million international passengers only in August, marking an increase of 172 percent compared to the same period last year.

In general, the tourism sector in Spain experienced a 78 percent increase in July 2021 compared to the previous year, accounting for 4.4 million arrivals.

Barcelona, Spain: Art and Beaches

Combining Mediterranean vibes with rich artistic history, Barcelona is perfect for travelers looking to balance relaxation and culture.

• Highlights for a Weekend
  • Admire the unique architecture of Antoni Gaudí, including Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
  • Stroll along La Rambla and enjoy tapas at local eateries.
  • Soak up the sun at Barceloneta Beach.
• Insider Tip: Visit Bunkers del Carmel for panoramic views of the city.

According to the Spanish Statistics Institute (INE), the number of French travellers made up 19.9 percent of all arrivals, followed by Germans (64.5 percent), with 707,331 of them visiting the country until July, and British travellers who recorded a 46.5 percent increase from last year.

3. Italy

About 8.9 percent of all respondents on ETC’s survey said they plan to visit Italy during this time. That figure accounts for 356 people, but according to the Data Appeal Company, Italy has recorded a 567 percent increase in flight bookings and 1091 percent in hotel reservations from April to July.

The majority of tourists in Italy came from Western Europe, such as Germany, France, Belgium, Denmark, Austria, Spain, and England.

“These results, though positive, remain distant from 2019 figures. When comparing flight bookings to Italy in August 2021 versus August 2019, we detected a decrease of -46 percent,” the Data provider explains.

However, domestic tourism in Italy has surged drastically this summer, with 23 million Italians choosing their home country as a holiday destination.

Rome, Italy: A Journey Through Time

For those drawn to history, Rome offers a compact and rich experience. Known as the Eternal City, it’s filled with ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant street life.

• Highlights for a Short Trip
  • Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum to step back into ancient times.
  • Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome.
  • Explore the Vatican Museums and marvel at the Sistine Chapel.
• Culinary Experience: Don’t miss out on authentic Roman pizza or cacio e pepe pasta.

4. France

Although only eight percent of the ETC survey respondents said that France is their top destination, the country remains the most visited country in the world.

According to Condor Ferries, France welcomed about 89.4 million visitors in 2018, with Euro Disney, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre being France’s most popular attractions. Moreover, the country welcomed 35 million tourists in 2020. The target for this year was 50 million travellers, as the vaccination rollouts have been implemented and the country loosened its entry restriction put forward due to Coronavirus.

Paris, France: The City of Light

A perennial favorite, Paris offers everything you could want from a short getaway. With its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and charming Montmartre, Paris blends romance, art, and history seamlessly.

• How to Spend 48 Hours in Paris
  • Start with a morning stroll along the Seine River, stopping at Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Dedicate your afternoon to the Louvre, where you can marvel at the world-famous Mona Lisa.
  • Finish your day with dinner at a traditional Parisian bistro in the Latin Quarter.
• Travel Tip: Use the Paris Métro for quick and affordable transportation.

Travellers from all around the world visit France every year. Still, the top nationalities visiting the country are Belgians, Germans, Dutch, British, and Americans, with the last two showing an interest drop due to stringent entry restrictions.

5. Croatia Europe’s Top Destinations for Short-Term Travel

According to the Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board (HTZ), 2.6 million arrivals and over 11.7 million overnight stays were registered in Croatia, recording a 53 percent increase compared to last year. Moreover, British travellers’ interest has increased by eight percent, recording 87,000 overnight stays during the first seven months of 2020.

In June, Croatia hosted about 290,000 visitors over a weekend alone, marking a 40 percent increase in the number of tourists compared to 2020 figures.

• Dubrovnik
  • Highlights: Walk along the City Walls, visit the Old Town, and take a cable car ride to Mount Srđ.
  • Best For: Fans of medieval architecture and seaside views.
  • Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid cruise ship crowds.
• Split
  • Highlights: Discover Diocletian’s Palace, stroll along the Riva Promenade, and take a day trip to the nearby Blue Lagoon.
  • Best For: History lovers and island hoppers.
  • Tip: Catch a ferry to Hvar or Brač for a quick island escape.

How to Choose the Best Destination for Your Short Trip

When selecting from the top Europe destinations for short-term travel, consider:

• Flight Duration: Opt for cities with direct flights and minimal travel time.
• Accessibility: Prioritize locations with well-connected public transportation.
• Personal Interests: Choose destinations that align with your preferences, whether it’s art, food, history, or nature.

Final Thoughts

Short-term travel in Europe offers the perfect opportunity to escape the routine and recharge. By choosing the right destination, you can create unforgettable memories even with limited time. Whether it’s the charm of Paris, the history of Rome, or the vibrancy of Barcelona, Europe’s treasures are just a short flight away.

Plan your next adventure, and let the best Europe destinations for short-term travel inspire your journey.