Kraków, Poland

Base yourself inside the old town and spend days walking between the main square, castle and riverside paths. Eat pierogi in local restaurants, explore underground cellars and take a half day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz. It’s compact, good value and easy to navigate.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Start mornings with coffee by the harbour, cycle between neighbourhoods and stop at food halls like Torvehallerne for lunch. Swim from the harbour baths, stroll Nyhavn in the evening and spend a night sampling the city’s casual but excellent dining scene.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik draws in travellers who love scenery and atmosphere. Walk the old city walls early in the morning, swim from the rocks or take a boat to nearby islands during the day, then return to the old town in the evening once cruise crowds have gone. For Game of Thrones fans, many key scenes were filmed here, making it especially rewarding to explore on foot.

Vienna, Austria

Spend mornings moving between palaces and museums, then slow things down with coffee and cake in traditional cafés. Walk through market areas like Naschmarkt, catch a classical concert in the evening and enjoy how calm the city feels once the shops close.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Climb Arthur’s Seat for views across the city, wander between the Old Town and New Town, then finish the day in a whisky bar or modern bistro. Add a half day trip to the coast or Highlands if you want to stretch the break.