Bucket list citybreaks: key destinations plus must-sees and dos

If you’ve found yourself craving the enriching, edifying experience of a citybreak this year, then you’re not alone. In fact the ‘culture capitals’ travel trend has seen a surge in travellers seeking out the energy and bustle of cities rich in creativity. Places where they can experience live, in-person art and culture and truly immerse themselves in another place, from food and drink to fashion, history and architecture.

For a smooth and simple way to sort your next city adventure, look no further than Jet2CityBreaks – a collection from Jet2holidays. Jet2CityBreaks wrap up your flights, hotel, 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage into one great value, ABTA and ATOL-protected package. Choose from a wealth of stunning European cities, from classic destinations like Paris and Rome, to cultural centres like Krakow and Barcelona. With flexible flight options, you can arrive ready to explore on the first day so you don’t miss a moment of your holiday, with incredible central hotels located in the heart of the action.

For extra ease, you can secure your Jet2CityBreak for just a £60pp* deposit, and pay it off in flexible monthly interest-free payments with no fees** – meaning you can book early to lock in the price and start planning the perfect trips. Here we outline just some of the incredible breaks on offer, must see-and-dos as well as the best hotels to make your holiday base…

In the Hungarian capital you get two for the price of one. Split by the Danube River, Budapest offers engrossing history and culture on the west, and thrilling, edgy nightlife to the east. Spend your day in the West’s tree-lined boulevards and cobbled streets, enjoying the baroque buildings and the domineering splendour of Buda Castle. At night, join the rustic fun of Szimpla Kert and other ‘ruin bars’ (bars housed in beautiful old neglected buildings, unique, magical places with incredible ambience) in the East. Then retire to the Palazzo Zichy hotel, a former palace that now boasts a lovely mix of old world charm and contemporary décor.

From strolling in the footsteps of Picasso to delighting in the flair of Gaudí at La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona is a cultural joy. The seaside bars and restaurants of Barceloneta Beach are great to unwind in during the day, and the al fresco fun along La Rambla will keep you entertained into the small hours. While sports fans will never forget a tour of the Camp Nou football stadium. The stylish H10 Marina Barcelona hotel, just 800m from the beach but with the city’s many attractions a short metro ride away, is the perfect place for a best-of-both worlds stay.

Absolutely steeped in history, Italy’s capital is full of iconic sights. You can visit the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, stroll in the footsteps of Emperors at the marble Pantheon and stand where gladiators once fought at the Colosseum. Sample the finest Italian food at one of the city’s many eateries – Pianoalto serves creative dishes and shareable plates from a leafy rooftop terrace, while for an avant garde culinary experience head to Osteria Fernanda. Finally, sip cocktails at sunset from the rooftop bar of The Glam Hotel, which offers boutique accommodation in a prime location.

Simon Calder’s Citybreak guide

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Cobbled backstreets, hip bars and splendid squares make Krakow an unforgettable destination. St Mary’s Basilica, Florianska Gate and Rynek Underground are among the must-see Old Town sights during the day. While at night you can refresh yourself with dumplings and vodka in the plentiful eateries (eat al fresco at Miodova, enjoy delicious home-made vodka at Starka or head to Robimy Pierogi for a street food vibe). After enjoying all Krakow has to offer, unwind in the stunning heated indoor pool at the luxurious H15 Palace Hotel. In the heart of the Old Town, this is the ideal base for those keen to squeeze every last drop out of their stay.

As you saunter along the glamorous promenade, with the glittering blue Mediterranean to one side, and super-stylish architecture on the other, you will understand why Nice is the jewel in the crown of the south of France. The small streets of the Old Town are perfect for browsing stalls, shopping in boutiques and people watching. You can soak up the rays on the sun-kissed beach before seeing out the day in any of the city’s fine restaurants (the bistro vibes of Le Canon and Michelin-starred Jan are just two highlights). Make the elegant Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice your base and you’ll be close to all the action, including fabulous shopping on Avenue Jean Medecin.

Whether you like live jazz, bouncing nightclubs, beautiful beers or edgy indie gigs, the Czech capital will keep you out late. The city’s spire-topped skyline flags up an itinerary of ancient castles, Gothic churches and Soviet structures for daytime outings. Don’t miss the oldest working astronomical clock in the world, or the views from the Charles Bridge, which is lined by statues of saints. For veggie and vegan fare, head to the quirky, serene surrounds of Lehká Hlava (meaning ‘light head’), or enjoy refined, reconstructed dishes based on a 19th century Czech cookbook at La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise. For cocktails Black Angels Bar and Anonymous Bar are two must-visits.

For the perfect stay, head to Michelangelo Grand Hotel. Located in an enviable location, close to Prague’s vibrant Wenceslas Square, this elegant hotel (complete with a unique ‘beer spa’) is a perfect choice for exploring the city, with a variety of shops, bars and restaurants nearby.

A haven of natural beauty, Madeira is much loved for its sub-tropical climate, botanical gardens and beautiful levadas (water channels). With its mighty mountains giving the island a dramatic backdrop, you can enjoy outdoor experiences like surfing, scuba diving and big-game fishing, but also join the fiestas and other cultural events, which run all year round. Head to Il Vivaldi for delicious Mediterranean food in charming surrounds or enjoy haute cuisine with a focus on Madeiran produce at William. While hotel-wise, in the heart of Funchal, the SE Boutique Hotel offers stylish rooms and a fabulous terrace bar with a 360-degree view of the city.

Jet2holidays offers an incredible range of great-value getaways for all types of travellers, across stunning European destinations. From the affordable luxury of Indulgent Escapes® by Jet2holidays® to the compelling cities of Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays stays that suit your style to family-friendly Jet2Villas, the boxes are ticked for every age, budget and interest. What’s more, with holidays secured with a low £60pp deposit* and the Pay Monthly** option, plus a host of perks like 22kg baggage and return transfers included***, it’s easy from start to finish. It’s all ABTA and ATOL-protected too. To find out more about how to book, head here

*On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. **Terms and conditions apply. Please visit www.jet2holidays.com/part-payment for details. ***Transfers are not included as standard on Jet2CityBreaks. Jet2Villas packages include car hire.