"Broaden your horizons," says Hotels.com in a press release, suggesting four slightly more unusual weekend cities in Europe. Yes, but why not choose a weekend city that not everyone else chooses? We present the four cities along with our own reflections.
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Now it's popular to visit quirky weekend towns in Europe
Data from Hotels.com shows that almost a third (29 %) of the Swedish population want to travel to places where none of their friends or family have been before. In addition, a third (33 per cent) prefer odd and different destinations instead of extravagant ones.
Here we list some of the 'odd' weekend cities that are growing in popularity according to Hotels.com, along with their and our reflections.
1. Podgorica, Montenegro
Do you know the name of the capital of Montenegro? If the answer is no, maybe it's a sign that you should explore the country more. The capital city of Podgorica offers unique architecture and several urban forests, as well as being close to nature and mountains.
Unfortunately, we have not had the opportunity to visit this city. However, we have visited other places in this country, such as the beautiful Unesco city. Kotor.
Where can you live? Hotels.com suggests Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora, which offers the largest spa in the capital and a fantastic view from the hotel's rooftop bar.
2. Zagreb, Croatia
Many Swedes have visited Croatia, but it is - for obvious reasons - the beautiful coastline and islands that attract most people. The capital, Zagreb, although not on the coast, is an unusually charming little capital.
Here you'll find a cosy pedestrian street, lovely parks and beautiful historic houses. There are also exciting museums, fun markets and - at Christmas time - fantastic Christmas markets. This is a city we fell in love with!
Where can you live? Hotels.com suggests Hotel Esplanade Zagreb, an Art Deco hotel with a touch of glamour. We have stayed at Hotel Dubrovnik, which is a fresh 4-star hotel right in the centre of the action.
3. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia's capital Ljubljana can offer a luxurious holiday without breaking the bank. Here you can experience both history and romance, and the city has many attractions to offer. For example, you can visit the Ljubljana's best wine bars.
Where can you live? Hotels.com suggests Vander Urbani Resort, which is located in the city centre and offers both a luxury feel and a roof terrace. On our only (and short) visit to Ljubljana so far, we stayed at the city's campsite, so we have no further hotel tips to offer.
Sofia in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is so much more than just a summer holiday destination. Sunny Beach. In the capital Sofia, you can see the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and lots of other interesting churches and buildings. You can also stroll along Sofia's special yellow streets and discover cool restaurants and delicious rooftop bars.
Where can you live? Hotels.com suggests Sense Hotel Sofia, which is a member of Design Hotels and focuses on aesthetic decoration. When we visited Sofia, we stayed at Hyatt Regency, which is modern and in a great location for exploring the city.
More tips for quirky weekend cities in Europe?
Have you visited any of these cities? Do you have tips for more quirky weekend cities in Europe?
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Ann-Louise Paulsson says:
We were in Ljubljana a few weeks ago and thought it was fantastic there. Can really recommend the Zlata ladjica Boutique Hotel, the best hotel I have stayed in with fantastic service.
Can also recommend Bratislava as a quirky weekend city.
08 December 2022 - 12:06
Ditte says:
Have visited Xagreb, Ljubliana and Sofia. Sofia was not an immediate favourite. As a slightly odd weekend city Bergamo in Italy. But maybe it's not so odd.
08 December 2022 - 14:20
bmlarsreseblogg says:
Of these, we have only visited Ljubljana, which we liked very much. Here we are discussing whether it should be a weekend trip somewhere before it is time for a motorhome. However, we are so bored that it is Paris or London that is being discussed. It has been so long since those cities were visited.
There are many wonderful destinations, just right for a long weekend!
08 December 2022 - 16:15
Nils-Åke Hansson says:
We have not visited any of these.
08 December 2022 - 18:32
BP says:
Then I learnt the name of the capital of Montenegro - Podgorica. Alicante, Rotterdam and Faro in Portugal are some tips. Maybe even Valetta in Malta qualifies as an odd weekend city.
08 December 2022 - 19:55
Jossu says:
Sofia has attracted me for a long time. My sun and sea holiday in Bulgaria was not a success. So I would like to give the country a second chance, and think that Sofia and maybe some smaller neighbouring town/village would give the country a place in my heart.
Ljubljana is also attractive, along with the rest of Slovenia.
Vienna and Athens are two of my favourite weekend cities. Maybe it's because I love history and these cities offer many such attractions.
08 December 2022 - 20:28