Long Weekend? How About a European Vacation?

If you’re leaving from the East Coast, some European cities are a similar distance as many on the West Coast. In this article, we’ll tell you all about the 3 best travel destinations in Europe that make for quick weekend getaways full of cultural immersion, unforgettable flavors, historical deep dives, and bucket list exploration.
View of Dublin's iconic Ha'penny Bridge over the River Liffey; photo by Leonid Andronov/adobestock.com

DUBLIN, IRELAND

Dublin is packed with history, charm, and fun activities at every turn. While in the city, be sure to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral and make time for the Library at Trinity College, which houses the Book of Kells—an illuminated early Christian manuscript.

Part of the charm of Dublin is the friendly folks you will meet, especially the knowledgable tour guides. “Doing a hop on/hop off bus tour is recommended,” said Kelly Connor, a AAA Travel advisor from the AAA Store in Marlton, New Jersey. Dublin is also known for its music scene, especially traditional Irish music, also known as trad. “If you can, take in an Irish Trad Session at The Hairy Lemon pub, particularly amusing when the Guinness is flowing,” said Connor.

Directly across the street from this pub is The Grafton Hotel, a boutique property which is an ideal spot to make your homebase in Dublin. Other must-sees while in Dublin include a tour at the Guinness Storehouse (Ireland’s number one tourist attraction) or a whisky tour at Teeling Distillery.

Also, consider a stop at the Jameson Distillery, which is a museum now, said Connor. Other activities to consider are a Fab Food Trails tour which visits several eateries in the city, lunch at Cellar 22, a tour curated by Whiskey Island - Irish Whiskey Tours & Tastings, and a visit to the iconic Temple Bar.

If a long weekend in Dublin isn’t enough time on the Emerald Isle, venture north to Slane Castle Distillery, plan time to stop by the Listoke Distillery and Gin School in the Boyne Valley, and make your way up to Belfast—home of the Belfast by the Glass activity.
Porto's old town view from Villa Nova de Gaia across the Douro River; photo by samael334/adobestock.com

PORTO, PORTUGAL

Located on the Douro River, Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities and it’s a lovely destination for a long weekend getaway, said Connor. Famous for their Port wine, the Douro Valley is one of the best wine regions in Portugal.

For panoramic views of the city, Connor said to visit the Torre dos Clerigos and climb its 240 steps. To get to know the city better, take a Porto Tram City Line 22 Tour, similar to a hop on/hop off bus tour.

Another must-visit is the Church of St. Francis with its Gothic architecture and the Stock Exchange Palace with its magnificent Arabian Hall, which was inspired by Granada's Alhambra, she said.

And, take time to go see the pastel-painted houses in Porto's Ribeira district, where many great restaurants, bars, and craft markets are located. “You can also enjoy a bit of shopping in the Mercado do Porto Belo, where you can buy unique gifts made by local designers and artisans,” suggested Connor.

The food in Porto is also noteworthy. “Definitely make time to go to Café Majestic, the most celebrated café in Porto, for lunch or dinner,” Connor said. “Or, enjoy tapas and music at Rua Tapas Music Restaurant & Bar. While in Porto, visit Lello bookstore, one of the oldest bookstores in the world, and for a memorable stay book at Le Monumental Palace in a central location in Porto.
London's Big Ben and Westminster Abbey in London, England; photo by alice_photo/adobestock.com

LONDON, ENGLAND

Several East Coast hubs offer direct flights and if you leave on a Thursday or Saturday you may snag a better airfare. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the Royals, enjoy traditional fish and chips, visit a London Pub, or see iconic sites—like Big Ben, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, Borough Market, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square—a long weekend gives you an opportunity to experience this and more.

One of the best bangs for your buck is the London Pass by Go City. Also, while in London, visit the Churchill War Rooms and try afternoon tea at L’Oscar London or other venues throughout the city.

London also has unique areas to stroll. “Walk the Thames Path on the South Bank and view some of London’s major landmarks, including Houses of Parliament and the Tower Bridge. If you haven’t done it before, get tickets and take a ride on the London Eye around sunset,” said Connor. “The view is amazing. While you’re there, explore one or two of the eight Royal Parks. I recommend St. James Park and Kensington Gardens.”

A central lodging location is the best move when staying in London and the boutique hotel, The Londoner, is a stylish retreat found in heart of the of Leicester Square.