FROM NICE TO BUDAPEST – HERE’S THE LOWDOWN ON EUROPE’S BEST VALUE GETAWAYS

WHEN it comes to cities with wow factor Europe leaves you spoilt for choice. From buzzing capitals to cities steeped in history, the continent is jam-packed with weekend getaway options.

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Jet2holidays offers fantastic Jet2CityBreaks to more than 30 European destinations. Enjoy flights, accommodation, 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage, all wrapped up in an ABTA and ATOL-protected package.

Whether you go for a classic destination such as Athens or Barcelona, or are enticed by somewhere different such as Budapest or Krakow, these are the best value cities to visit with Jet2CityBreaks in 2023.

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BUDAPEST

With cobbled streets, handsome 19th-century mansions and pretty bridges across the Danube river, it’s no wonder this romantic city is known as the Paris of the east. 

Visit the bustling Great Market Hall for local delicacies, take in an exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts or wander in the beautiful City Park. 

And of course, no visit to Budapest is complete without a trip to one of its thermal baths – and at Szechenyi Baths, you will be spoilt for choice with the array of natural thermal pools.

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Mixing contemporary design with classic Budapest architecture, Atrium Fashion Hotel is an ideal boutique style hotel in a great central location.

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PRAGUE

This medieval city has long been impressing city-break travellers, especially those on a budget. 

With great value drinks, it remains a fun, party place. However, there’s more to the city than just a good night out – street food and markets are a big draw. 

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague has endless charming churches, squares and bridges. 

Don’t miss the dramatic Prague Castle, pretty Petrin Park and the arty John Lennon Wall.

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Located in the heart of the historical area, Ibis Praha Wenceslas Square has modern, bright rooms plus an indoor swimming pool and spa facilities.

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KRAKOW

Located in the heart of the historical area, Ibis Praha Wenceslas Square has modern, bright rooms plus an indoor swimming pool and spa facilities.

With a mix of medieval houses and 19th-century palaces, Poland’s best-preserved city is a treasure trove to explore. 

Most visits start in the Market Square in the historic centre, a Unesco-listed spot that has been the heart of the action since the middle ages. 

It’s a great place to soak up the lively atmosphere, enjoy a beer and sample pierogies (Polish potato dumplings).

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Explore crystal grottoes and underground cathedrals at the 700-year-old Wieliczka Salt Mine, just south of the city.
Right by Market Square, Hotel Wyspianski has modern, well-equipped and affordable rooms.

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ATHENS

While the sun and sand of the islands may often steal the spotlight, the Greek capital is more than a stopover spot. 

First up, there’s the bucket-list ancient sites, most notably the impressive Acropolis. There’s a host of other archaeological sites dating back to the fifth century BC, including the original stadium of the first modern olympics. 

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Beyond its storied roots, it’s an energetic modern city buzzing with rooftop bars and cute courtyards where you can enjoy fresh fare and good drinks at bargain prices. 
For a stylish, modern hotel a stone’s throw from the sights, DAVE Red Athens ticks all the boxes.

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LAS PALMAS

With its balmy all-year climate, Gran Canaria has long attracted Brits looking for guaranteed sun. 

While its beaches are notable, the capital of the Canary Islands is also a destination in its own right. 

The cosmopolitan Spanish port city is a great base for sightseeing, eating and shopping. 

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Don’t miss Vegueta, the oldest quarter, where you can find cool boutiques and bars. 
With a rooftop pool and on-site spa, Bull Reina Isabel & Spa is the perfect base for a Las Palmas break.

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FARO

Often overlooked because of Lisbon and Porto, this southern hotspot makes for a lovely little city break and sunny destination. 

The old town is coloured with pastel facades and traditional Portuguese tiles, while the Roman city walls and chic marina edged with gardens are great to wander around. 

It’s also an excellent city to indulge in fresh local food (don’t miss the sardines) and very affordable wine (they do an excellent hearty red).

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Situated in downtown Faro, Faro Boutique Hotel has stylish rooms and a rooftop bar.

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NICE

The capital of the French Riviera, this stylish portside city has all the makings of a great weekend away, whether you’re after beach time, art and culture, or simply want to enjoy fine French food and wine. 

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There are four miles of beach to choose from, a Matisse museum and a quaint old town lined with terraced restaurants, chic wine bars and spots to enjoy live jazz. 
A comfortable base to explore the French city, Ibis Styles Nice Vieux Port is located harbourside and close to the historic centre.

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BARCELONA

This seaside hotspot is a city-break favourite – and with its world-class restaurant scene, buzzing nightlife, shopping and plenty of culture, it’s easy to see why.

Sounds expensive? With a little research, you can plan a jam-packed itinerary without spending a fortune.

Many of the city’s museums, including the Museu Picasso, offer free entry at specific times – plus, there are plenty of free outside attractions such as the gardens of Montjuïc, which are peppered with fountains, sculptures and steep tiled walkways.

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And an afternoon on the beach is a must for a spot of sunbathing and people watching.
Just 1.5 miles from the beach, Catalonia Atenas is the perfect spot to explore the city. Plus there’s a rooftop pool that is made for selfies, with a stunning city backdrop.

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