Krakow, Poland

Krakow may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of a European city break, but trust us, it’s positively dripping with charm. Wander through its cobblestone streets, where medieval buildings and gothic churches stand tall, and get your hands on the local cuisine, especially the pierogi. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short drive to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where licking the walls is said to bring good luck. Then with luck on your side, head to one of Krakow’s trendy vodka bars. As for where to stay, the 29-room Hotel Copernicus offers an intimate stay smack-bang in the city centre. The rooftop bar with views of Wawel Castle is the cherry on top.

Porto, Portugal

If you’ve done Lisbon and want something a bit more laid-back, Porto is the place to be. Known for its stunning views over the Douro River and its love for long, lazy lunches, this city is perfect for foodies. While you’re here, you’ve got to try a francesinha, a meat-laden sandwich covered in melted cheese and sauce. For wine lovers, The Yeatman hotel is a dream, with a massive wine cellar and a spa that even incorporates wine into its treatments. The Rebello Hotel & Spa, built within historic UNESCO warehouses, is another fabulous option with incredible river views.

Riga, Latvia

Riga might just be Europe’s best-kept secret. Known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and lively creative scene, this Baltic gem is a haven for culture vultures. Spend your days exploring the cobblestoned Old Town, dining on fresh fare at the Central Market, and soaking up history at the Salaspils Memorial. Stay at the Grand Palace Hotel, living up to its name with buckets of old-world grandeur. Housed in the former Central Bank building, it’s stylish, intimate, and located in the heart of the action.

Bern, Switzerland

Anyone who bypasses Bern in favour of Zurich and Geneva is missing a trick. Switzerland’s capital may be small but it punches above its size with its medieval UNESCO-listed Old Town, cool café culture and the fun Aare River float. A weekend is the perfect amount of time to see the main sights, and for this lovely city to win you over. For your hotel, check out the glorious Bellevue Palace, hosting dignitaries and offering world-class service in a classic, city-centre setting. With luxurious rooms, a spa and restaurants that rival the best in town, it’s the ideal base for exploring Bern.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

This pocket-sized capital will have you under its spell in no time. Its pedestrian-friendly streets are perfect for leisurely strolls, with cafés spilling onto the riverbank and an eclectic mix of architecture at every turn. Green, clean, and wonderfully welcoming, Ljubljana is the perfect destination for a relaxing city break with a side of culture. Check into Vander Urbani Resort a chic, modern boutique hotel in the heart of Ljubljana. Spread across four townhouses, it’s got a wonderful rooftop terrace with views of the city, plus an infinity pool that’s a real treat in a city centre hotel.

Tivat, Montenegro

Okay, we may be a bit early calling Tivat a city, but it’s on its way. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Bay of Kotor, this up-and-coming hotspot is Montenegro’s answer to Monaco, from its superyacht-filled harbour to its swanky boutiques. Don’t miss a trip to the nearby Our Lady of the Rocks to learn the tale behind this man-made island. For a super-luxurious stay, check out the Chedi Luštica Bay, set in a purpose-built marina village, or Regent Porto Montenegro, with neoclassical design and a prime waterfront location.

Cordoba, Spain

Once a Roman city and later a centre of Islamic culture, Cordoba is one for the history and architecture fans. While you’re here, pay a visit to the Mezquita-Catedral de Cordoba, a UNESCO World Heritage site that transitioned from a mosque to a cathedral. The city’s fantastic food scene reflects its diverse heritage, and its flamenco culture is equally captivating. Stay at the Hospes Palacio del Baílio, a luxurious hotel set in a historic mansion. The hotel combines original features like Roman ruins and century-old frescoes with modern design, a spa, courtyards and an outdoor pool.