City Breaks from Edinburgh 2025
With a wealth of European and worldwide flights available from Edinburgh airport, now is the perfect time to sign up and receive our unique offers on city breaks from Scotland's capital. Whether you wish for a weekend of taking in the culture, the food or the nightlife, our excellent offers on hotels will ensure that you are happy for the duration of your stay.
Amsterdam, the Venice of the North
With regular, cheap and quick flights from Edinburgh, a trip to Amsterdam is the perfect way to spend the weekend. Whether you wish to explore its galleries or its bars, its clubs or its canals, there is something for everyone in this utterly unique city, and we have unique offers on some of its most luxurious hotels. A city teeming with atmosphere, friendliness and intrigue, it is a location that should not be missed: cycling provides a perfect way to travel and there is as much of a relaxed atmosphere as there is a bustling, forward-thinking nightlife.
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Barcelona, the crown of the Mediterranean
Whether you are looking for unique architecture, world-class football or beach side cocktails, Barcelona has everything you need for a short break. Gaudi's unique buildings stand out wonderfully: masterfully absurd creations that only add to Barcelona's proud outsider-status within Spain and Europe, something evidenced further in the city's Catalan heritage and proud opposition to the Spanish state throughout history. Heading to the Nou Camp stadium is also a joy for anyone with even a passing interest in football: its fantastic museum concentrates on FC Barcelona's history as a fan-run concern, and offers unique insight into both the city's history on the whole. Elsewhere, an early morning stroll around Barcelona's meat, fish and vegetable markets offer wonderful edible opportunities, and its clubs and nightlife is second to none. Whatever trip you are looking for, Barcelona has you covered. Stay at a range of four and five star hotels for a unique rate when you sign up to our website.
Berlin, the brash embodiment of the 20th Century
Nowhere in the world has embodied the conflicts and turmoil, as well as the enduring human spirit, than Berlin. Due to being occupied by Nazis, Communists and Western liberal democracies during the last century, the city has a unique place within Europe and its tumultuous past, whilst being thoroughly modern and energetic in its outlook. Now a hotbed for young people throughout the world looking for a life without the expenditure or conservative outlook of their home cities, Berlin offers unique nightlife to add further intrigue. A day wandering around the beautiful Museum Island, the Tiergarten and the Reichstag can be followed by a visit to the edgy bars of Friedrichshain or Kreutzberg, though the K'Damm area offers more upmarket, 'grown-up' fare. However you choose to spend your trip to Berlin, we have a range of luxurious hotels available with offers unique to our members.
With such a wide range of locations available to fly to from Edinburgh, now couldn't be a better time to sign up and receive our unique offers. Why wait?
5 things to see/do from Edinburgh
1. Glasgow
Glasgow is one of the most convenient cities to see from Edinburgh and offers a lot in terms of culture. Discover the Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, see the River Clyde and the huge grey Finnieston crane. Indulge in visits to the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland. If you have time left, take a refreshing walk around the Glasgow Botanic Gardens and spot some street art tributes to Billy Connolly.
2. Dublin
?For an enjoyable and relaxing city break, head to Dublin and visit the 13th-century Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo. If you want to get acquainted with the culture and heritage, head to the National Museum of Ireland. There are also the Guinness brewery and the Old Jameson Distillery.
3. Southampton
?Head south to the cruise capital of the UK, from which the ill-fated Titanic set sail and explore the harbour and Ocean Village. Other attractions include the Tudor House and the town walls, Mayflower Park and the old Bargate amid the thriving modern city. If you prefer a quiet time, explore the charming River Hamble area and the Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley, then head to picturesque Beaulieu and the New Forest.
4. Amsterdam
?For something a little further afield, take a weekend break in Amsterdam and explore the "Venice of the North". Some of the must-sees in Amsterdam include Dam Square, Rembrandt's House, Anne Frank's House and the Rijksmuseum. Add craft breweries and a great coffee culture to make the perfect weekend getaway.
5. Manchester
If you like lively city life, you'll enjoy a visit to Manchester, which offers great shopping opportunities, bustling nightlife and various cultural attractions, including Manchester Cathedral with its medieval woodwork. To get a glimpse into the local background and history, visit the interactive Museum of Science & Industry and the Daniel Libeskind-designed Imperial War Museum North. The Lowry Theatre and Arts Centre at Salford Quays offers local, national and international performances and art.
The best hotels for a city break from Edinburgh
1. Crowne Plaza® Glasgow 4*
The Crowne Plaza is the perfect option for enjoying luxury accommodation during a weekend city break in Glasgow. This modern glass tower overlooks the River Clyde and is a short walk away from Scottish Event Campus. It offers luxurious rooms, great views and a spa, sauna and steam bath.
2. Maldron Hotel Smithfield 4*, Dublin
The Maldron Hotel Smithfield is just 150 metres away from the Old Jameson Distillery and a 15-minute walk from the thriving Temple Bar area, so it makes a great base for a stay in Dublin. The hotel has a contemporary design and offers spacious rooms, optional bus tours and even a day trip to the stunning Cliffs of Moher. Dig into an Irish breakfast, take a power shower and take a walk in Phoenix Park from here.
3. Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour 4*
This fabulous hotel offers an excellent location for exploring Southampton, along with an indoor pool, sauna and a fitness suite. Guest enjoy the stylish rooms and excellent dining options here, along with a great location for exploring the best of Southampton. Highlights of this luxury accommodation include two dining options and close proximity to the Tudor House, cruise terminals and other historical landmarks.
4. Manor Hotel Amsterdam 4*
?The Manor Hotel is located in the up-and-coming area of Amsterdam-Oost and offers easy access to canals, art galleries and boutiques. Guests here enjoy spacious, Italian-inspired rooms, a Dutch breakfast and optional excursions, including a canal cruise and a guided tour of the cheese markets in Alkmaar.
5. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly 4*
??This centrally-located hotel is close to the major highlights of Manchester and offers a contemporary and stylish base for exploring the city. Notable amenities at the property include its seasonal terrace, "foodie theatre" and gym.
Plan your weekend break from Edinburgh
The best time of the year to go on a city break from Edinburgh
The best time of the year to enjoy a weekend city break from Edinburgh is from June to August if you're heading elsewhere in the UK or the same region due to the chances of great weather.
Going on a city break from Edinburgh at the weekend
Since Edinburgh is a travel hub, it is easy to take a city break from here, with regular flights, great road networks, and bus, tram and taxi services readily available.
Where to eat - the best districts and restaurants
The city centres of each destination tend to offer the best dining hotspots. Your city break food options range from fine dining experiences to budget-friendly spots.
Nightlife on your city break from Edinburgh
Whether you are heading out as a couple, in a group or as a solo traveller, you are sure to be impressed with the nightlife options available in the cities that you access for the weekend from Edinburgh. Solo travellers love mixing it up with the locals while relaxing lounges provide the perfect spots to enjoy a cocktail with your romantic partner. Live music venues are the perfect option for group travellers.
Our practical advice for a city break from Edinburgh
What to pack for a weekend city break from Edinburgh
When planning for a weekend city break from Edinburgh, pack for the various weather conditions you could encounter and whether you intend on doing a lot of walking or a lot of partying.
What budget to plan
When you choose Voyage Privé, you can save up to 70% when you book your Edinburgh weekend city break. In terms of spending money for your weekend, it is recommended that you over-budget rather than be left wishing you had prepared more.
Useful information before going on a city break from Edinburgh
If you're heading out of the country, it is worth noting that Scottish banknotes look different to the usual UK ones and can be difficult to exchange in some places outside the UK.