The best budget city breaks
Travelling in Europe doesn’t have to be expensive if you know how to do it right! So, we’ve pulled together seven of the best budget city breaks to help you plan your next trip. Whether you’re looking for action-packed destinations with plenty of sights and attractions or want to live like a local for a more relaxed holiday, get inspired by these budget-friendly destinations.
1. Amsterdam
One of Europe’s prettiest cities, Amsterdam is a must-visit location for a city break. Plus, you can have a great time here on a budget thanks to the range of free and low-cost activities. Plan a walking tour to admire Amsterdam’s picture-perfect architecture, bike around Vondelpark, or head to a free Wednesday lunchtime concert at Concertgebouw.
2. Brussels
As the capital of Belgium, Brussels has plenty to offer budget travellers. Explore the historical centre on foot to discover iconic landmarks or follow the comic strip trail to spot some familiar faces.
Many of the Brussels' museums offer free entry on the first Wednesday of the month, making it a great time to plan your visit. Take a break from sightseeing by trying the delicious street food and beer, both of which are purse-friendly options.
3. Antwerp
Antwerp has long been known as the fashion hub of Belgium, so if you’re looking for a budget-friendly shopping destination, head here. You’ll be spoiled for choice with vintage and thrift shops scattered across the city, as well as neighbourhood markets at weekends.
If shopping isn’t your thing, visit one of the many free museums, galleries and monuments in Antwerp for a dose of culture. It’s also another great place to explore on foot or by bike, thanks to its rich architectural history.
4. Paris
The French capital might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a budget holiday, but you can still enjoy this iconic city for less. Since many of the main landmarks are visible from the River Seine, hop on a river cruise for a budget-friendly sightseeing tour.
Paris is an art lover’s dream, and several museums and galleries are free to visit on the first Sunday of the month. If food is your top priority, there are plenty of affordable restaurants and bakeries for an authentic taste of Parisian cuisine.
5. Hamburg
Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city, so there’s plenty to see and do here. Located on the River Elbe, it’s a great summer destination, with many riverside bars and restaurants. But it’s equally charming during winter – don’t miss the German Christmas markets if you’re visiting in November or December.
Whether you’re planning on exploring the city’s museums, markets or historic sites, Hamburg is a walkable city, so it’s easy to see a lot in a short space of time.
6. Copenhagen
Despite its reputation as one of the more expensive European cities, you can still visit Copenhagen on a budget. Its proximity to nature means there are various free things to do outdoors, from exploring the picturesque Nyhavn to relaxing in beautiful gardens and swimming in the harbour.
Want to get your culture fix? Several galleries and museums offer free entry on the last Wednesday of the month. And when it comes to eating and drinking, Copenhagen won’t disappoint – try smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) or treat yourself to a delicious Danish pastry.
DFDS short breaks, deals & packages
Ready to plan your city break? Explore DFDS short breaks to find the perfect destination when travelling on our UK to Europe ferry crossings. We also offer mini cruises from Newcastle to Amsterdam, where you can enjoy onboard entertainment, comfortable cabins, exceptional dining and a hassle-free journey. Check out our offers and deals to save even more on your next trip.
City break checklist
Wondering how to plan a city break? Use this checklist to keep your trip within budget and stay organised when you travel.
Book accommodation in advance. Hostels are the cheapest accommodation type in most cities, but you can also find great deals on hotels, B&Bs and apartments when booking ahead.
Plan your journey. Our routes from the UK to Europe include Newcastle to Amsterdam, Dover to Dunkirk, Dover to Calais and Newhaven to Dieppe. Once you arrive in Europe, it’s easy to travel to your destination by car or train.
Set a daily budget. To help you track your spending during your trip, set a daily budget for food, shopping and attractions.
Create an itinerary. Whether you’re away for a long weekend or planning an extended trip, creating an itinerary can help you pick out the must-see attractions, ensuring you get the most out of your holiday.
What to pack for a city break
Ultimately, everyone has different priorities when packing for a city break, depending on the length of the trip and the activities you have planned. However, some of the essentials include:
Comfortable shoes. City breaks often involve a lot of walking, so you want to avoid sore feet!
Seasonal clothing. Pack appropriate clothing for the weather and prepare for changeable conditions. For example, if you’re travelling to Europe during winter, you’ll need a warm coat and jumper. Even at the height of summer, the evenings can be chilly, so bring a light jacket.
Medicines and first aid kit. It’s always a good idea to have a small first aid kit to hand when travelling, including plasters, painkillers, antihistamines and insect repellent.
Important documents. Travel documents and ID are the most important things to bring with you – keep them on your person at all times when travelling.
Money. Ensure you have some cash in the correct currency, but always bring bank cards, too.
