Blog: 5 Great City Break ideas within 3 hours of the North West

5 Great city break ideas

A city break is a great way to explore new places, sample the food and immerse yourself in the culture and history of a new destination. With so many great places within easy reach of North West airports, we have compiled a list  5 great city break ideas within 3 hours of the North West. There are plenty more and we will look at some less well-known destinations in future blogs, but for now, here are some fantastic destinations to start you planning!

Paris, France

The Olympics shone a fantastic light on Paris. It showcased the city’s stunning architecture, café culture and romance. There is so much to do that you could keep coming back for a city break and see something new every time!

 Highlights: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Why Go: Paris is an iconic city for a reason, with its world-class art, cuisine, and architecture. Stroll along the Seine, explore charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre, and enjoy a café in a quintessential Parisian square and watch the (very stylish) world go by.

Travel time from Manchester: 1 hour 30 minutes

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is the perfect mix of stunning architecture, history, culture and fantastic food. The mix of traditional and modern, urban and the coast means that there really is something for everyone.

Highlights: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, La Rambla.

Why Go: Barcelona offers a vibrant mix of stunning architecture by Gaudí, lively markets, and a rich cultural scene. The city’s Mediterranean beaches and tapas bars add to its allure as a perfect urban escape.

Travel time from Manchester: 2 hours 30 minutes

Amsterdam, Netherlands

There is so much more to Amsterdam than stag and hen parties and the red light district! Amsterdam is bursting with history, unique architecture, canals and a warm welcome. It is a great city to explore with bikes to rent and great travel infrastructure.

Highlights: Canals, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House.

Why Go: Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, world-renowned museums, and cosy cafés make it an ideal city break. Rent a bike to explore the city’s charming neighbourhoods or take a boat tour for a different perspective.

Travel time from Manchester: 1 hour 20 minutes

Rome, Italy

Rome really does have it all. It’s a romantic city steeped in history dating back to the Roman Empire. There is so much to see and do, it’s the perfect reason to keep going back!

Highlights: Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain.

Why Go: Rome is a living museum, with ancient ruins, stunning art, and delicious food at every turn. Wander through history in the Roman Forum, admire Renaissance masterpieces, and savour authentic Italian cuisine.

Travel time from Manchester: 2 hours 45 minutes

Lisbon, Portugal

The capital of Portugal sits overlooking the Tagus River. The old town is full of colourful paste houses and narrow winding streets to explore. Fames for its food, ceramic tiles and very warm welcome, Lisbon is a great mix of modern and traditional.

Highlights: Belém Tower, Alfama district, Tram 28.

Why Go: Lisbon’s unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy makes it a top destination. Explore the hilly, cobbled streets of Alfama, enjoy panoramic views from its many miradouros (viewpoints), and indulge in delicious pastéis de nata.

Travel time from Manchester: 2 hours 50 minutes

These cities offer a combination of culture, history, and atmosphere, perfect for a memorable city break from the UK. These are just 5 great city break ideas, we will be researching plenty more in the coming weeks!

Going on a city break means your time is precious! You have a few days to get away, explore, relax and enjoy a new place. You don’t want to waste time worrying about airport transfers, or stressing out about getting home after your break.

Booking your airport transfers with R Travel means that you can relax, safe in the knowledge that our drivers will get you there and home again in comfort and safety, with no worrying about booking a taxi when you land. Start your holiday the right way and book with R travel, your break starts the moment you step into one of our vehicles!

Book now, all we ask is a minimum of 24 hours notice to ensure we have the right car and driver for the journey.

If you are looking for an unusual holiday destination, read our blog of some of the best off-the-beaten-track destinations to try.