By Brianna Lapolla, PureWow
So much Europe, so little time. Contrary to what you may think, you don’t need six weeks of PTO to fully immerse yourself into the European way of life. Here are five cities you can see in three days or less. Do we hear a long weekend calling?
Bruges, Belguim
If a weekend spent imbibing chocolate and beer sounds like a dream come true, Bruges is your spot. This preserved medieval town is famous for both, so spend your days popping into any (or all) of the chocolate shops and pubs in the Markt, Bruges’s main square. Dare we say more than three days might be a little too indulgent—if there’s such a thing?
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Situated among winding canals, this city is one of the most beautiful in Europe. And while you can definitely spend more than three days here, it’s all you need to see most of the hot spots. Hop on a bike tour to stake out some classic canal photo ops among the picturesque Dutch townhomes and then hit up one of its 75 museums (the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House are musts). Pick up a bouquet of local tulips for your AirBnb before spending the rest of the weekend leisurely strolling the waterways with a cone of French fries or space cake in hand (or both).
Venice, Italy
The Floating City is dubbed one of Europe’s most walkable places. But get the full experience by taking in the city from a dreamy gondola ride on day one. After you get your bearings, the real magic comes from getting lost in the twisting alleyways connected by idyllic footbridges. Hidden art shops, can’t-miss pasta bars and a stop at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection are more than enough to keep you busy for another two days.
Nice, France
Paris will always have our heart, but Nice is just as well, nice. Along with its gorgeous coastal views, the destination has a reputation for its art museums and botanical gardens. Stroll through Vieille Ville (Old Town), ducking in and out of its inviting tiny boutiques, and then rest your feet with a glass of Champagne by the sea. Want more? Super-ritzy Cannes and Monaco are close enough to visit on days two and three.
Porto, Portugal
Lisbon gets all the buzz, but Porto is equally as beautiful, and decidedly less touristy. The coastal town, about a three-hour drive north of Lisbon, practically runs on Port wine and fresh seafood (need we say more?). The city itself is small and compact—you won’t find grand European cathedrals and squares, but it makes for the perfect relaxing weekend of sipping sangria by the Douro River.
