Travel: Autumn/winter best weekend breaks
Autumn and winter may sometimes be linked to melancholic feelings about leaving the summer behind, however, it is one of the greatest times of year to be spontaneous and go on a weekend break. With most airlines, such as Ryanair offering cheaper flights at this time of year, it makes sense to travel during these seasons.
Here are 5 places definitely worth a visit during ‘off-season’.
1. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is an ideal place for a weekend city break any time of year. The German capital is full of rich history, from the Berlin Wall to the Holocaust Memorial, one of the most beautiful war memorials in the world. Berlin is full of some of the best street art in the world with a visit to the East Side Gallery a worthwhile trip.
Recently, Berlin has picked up the tag as the ‘Party Capital of Europe’ with its cheap drinks and epic nightlife scene attracting students and backpackers from all over the world. If the promise of a great night out isn’t enough, the local food makes this city a must-visit for foodies. We couldn’t speak about Berlin without mentioning the World class beer as Berlin is also known as the Beer Capital.
Berlin is perfectly located to travel around to other cool cities in Germany such as Hamburg or Dresden and also lends itself well to visiting one of Germany’s most beautiful lakes – Muggelsee.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Flights to Prague are cheapest in January with return flights with Ryanair going for about €50. Like most European cities, Prague is full of stunning architecture. Visit Prague castle, the astronomical clock tower, Charles Bridge or St.Vitus Cathedral, the list goes on.
Music fans should check out the Lennon wall which pays homage to The Beatles and emerge yourself in culture by grabbing a Pork knuckle for lunch in the Old Town Square which also plays host to colourful street performers and markets. For the historian in your travel group, a trip to the Old Jewish Ghetto is worth the visit with many significant historical buildings still standing.
In winter-time Prague tends to be slighter busier than Autumn due to their renowned Christmas markets which are open everyday from the end of November to the first week in January. What better than a trip to Prague to get you in the holiday spirit?
3. Amsterdam, Holland
Amsterdam is a city for everyone. There is such a wide range of things to do and see. Whether you fancy some shopping in Dam square, to visiting a wide range of museums such as the Heineken experience, the Van Gogh museum, Anne Frank’s house or something more light hearted like Madame Tussauds or The Amsterdam dungeons, everyone in your travel group will enjoy a break to this city. A cruise along one of the cities many canals is a must or why not try your luck on a pedal boat with your friends.
Nightlife in Amsterdam is unique. Rembrandtplein hosts a range of nightclubs and bars from escape night club to the three sisters bar, all of which guarantee a great night out. The red light district is always worth visiting even if only for 10 minutes. Just outside the district are a handful of waffle/crepe shops, and after a night out, you can indulge in Amsterdam’s famed chips in a cone.
Amsterdam in autumn is stunning, with plenty of photo opportunities. The city is famed for its cyclists and the vast amount of bikes makes it one of a kind. Hop on a bike around Vondel park and take in the beautiful scenery. Although a contender for one of the more expensive cities in Europe, Amsterdam is a trip of a lifetime.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a bright youthful city with some of the trendiest shopping and nightspots found anywhere in the world. Strøget is one of the largest pedestrian malls in the world. Although very expensive if you follow the street to the Old City there’s a wide range of hip boutiques and shops which have something for everyone.
For culture there are plenty of historical palaces and museums to visit such as. If you’re the adventurous type and in the mood to get on a rollercoaster, then Tivoli gardens which is one of the world’s oldest theme parks is an unforgettable place.
Like Amsterdam, Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. Almost everyone rides a bike regularly and there are countless companies offering bike rental schemes in the city
5. Killarney, Ireland
If you don’t like flying or travelling long distances, Ireland has a lot to offer. In particular Killarney boasts a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Killarney national park is Irelands’ oldest national park and is full of some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Home to famed locations such as Muckross House and Gardens and the Lakes of Killarney, Killarney National Park is known widely as the ‘jewel in Kerry’s crown’. After a long day surrounded by nature, you can head into Killarney’s bustling town centre with plenty to offer from live music in local pubs to Killarney brewery. There is something to suit everyone.