Explore lesser-known European city breaks for unique experiences

European city breaks offer a great way to escape daily life and explore new places. With the rise of over-tourism in popular spots like Paris and Rome, many travelers are choosing lesser-known cities. Here are some interesting destinations to consider for a weekend getaway. Lecce, Italy is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and ancient Roman ruins. The dark honey-colored stone of the buildings gives the city a unique charm. Visitors can explore the impressive Roman amphitheater and enjoy lively bars and restaurants. Lecce is also close to the coast, perfect for swimming in warmer months. You can reach Lecce by flying to Brindisi and taking a short train ride. If you seek romance, consider Annecy, France. Often called the 'Venice of the Alps', this picturesque town features lovely canals and cobblestone streets. You can visit historic sites like the Château d’Annecy and enjoy views from the beautiful old bridge known as Pont des Amours. Fly into Geneva and drive to Annecy for a romantic weekend. For music lovers, Salzburg, Austria is a must-visit. The city is famous as Mozart's birthplace and for its stunning architecture. With historic sites like the fortress and Mozart’s home, there’s plenty to explore. Just a short train ride away, Bad Gastein offers skiing and spa experiences. A direct flight to Salzburg will take around two hours and 30 minutes. Vilnius, Lithuania is steeped in history and recently celebrated its 700th anniversary. The city has significant wartime history and diverse cultural influences. Key attractions include the Museum of Occupations and Gediminas Castle. The food scene is hearty, featuring potato dumplings and casseroles. A flight from Dublin takes about three hours. The Hague, Netherlands, offers a family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its political significance, the city boasts beautiful beaches and cultural attractions, including art museums. Kids will enjoy interactive exhibits at One Planet and amusement rides at Duinrell. It's a quick train ride from Amsterdam. Asturias, Spain, offers stunning coastal drives. The region is known for its lush greenery and beautiful cities. Oviedo features Gothic architecture, while Gijón is ideal for seafood lovers. With beaches and cider, it's a great destination for a road trip along the coast. Kos, Greece is a perfect spot for active travelers. This picturesque island has several hiking trails, including those leading to historical sites like the sanctuary of Asclepius. Visitors can also enjoy water sports and relaxation experiences. Travelers can access Kos easily, making it a great getaway. Lastly, Leipzig, Germany, is known for its historic Christmas markets. One of the oldest in the country, the market features 250 stalls and festive lights. Beyond Christmas, Leipzig offers a rich arts scene and historical sites related to Bach and Goethe. Direct flights from Dublin make it a convenient destination.