19 Best European Cities For A 2 Day Trip (2024)

Being able to visit Europe for an extended period of time is a part of living the dream for most world travelers. Yet, for the average jetsetter, a weekend getaway or a two-day jaunt might be the best they can do. Typically, if you work full-time, have limited PTO, only so many vacation dollars on hand, or simply have other obligations—a European getaway can seem like a tad bit of a stretch.

However, the good news is there is a wealth of places to go, sights to see, and things to do in Europe that can easily work with a shorter vacation itinerary. Whether you want to explore some of the world's best beaches in Europe or experience trending European destinations that are worth the bucket list, there's no lack of places to spend a couple of days in.

In fact, here are some of the best European cities for a weekend getaway or 48-hour trip mid-week, each abundant with beauty if you're looking for a quick couple of days or so abroad.

19 Tbilisi, Georgia

Visit this bohemian ancient Silk Road city without breaking your bank account

Tbilisi, Georgia, is one of the most affordable cities in all of Eastern Europe.

Nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, Tbilisi offers plenty to do and see; it has a great food culture, lots of interesting architecture, ancient sulfur baths, and a walkable and fascinating Old Town.

18 Split, Croatia

A scenic and historic waterfront city that's also a UNESCO Heritage site

Gorgeous Split, Croatia, sits right on the Adriatic Sea, and its downtown core is a UNESCO Heritage site. This stunning spot is teeming with history, and there are plenty of things to do in Split.

Top attractions include Diocletian Palace and the Riva Promenade, where you can stroll and enjoy the sunset.

17 Riga, Latvia

This walkable, historic city is one of the cheapest European cities to visit

For those wanting a cheaper two-day trip in Europe, checking out Riga, Latvia may be worth it. Here is where one of the most affordable vacation destinations on the continent lies, boasting walkable streets, plenty of history, and friendly people.

Riga is the capital of Latvia, boasting 600,000+ residents, so there is a metro system and easy ways to get around. Overall, this is the perfect European city to witness if you only have a couple of days to spare.

16 Normandy, France

Savor one of the top cultural cities in France

As one of France's most stunning yey easy-to-explore regions, Normandy can be done in a short period. Most times, tourists want to try and hit up the most iconic destinations in Normandy, like Mont Saint-Michel, Rouen Honfleur, and Giverny while in this area.

It's typically better to book a hotel near a downtown corridor in Normandy, as this means less time in a cab or private car. In addition, Normandy boasts many outdoor activities that are perfect for a two-day vacation, like hiking trails, beaches, and memorial sites. There's a lot to do, but with good scheduling, Normandy, France, is doable in 48 hours.

15 Cinque Terre, Italy

Italy's picturesque seaside city perched on a hill

Cinque Terre is one of the most colorful places in Italy. It is a picturesque location to spend a beautiful and cozy weekend in. There are hundreds of viewpoints to watch the sunset, including the popular Corniglia, which is simply gorgeous once the town gets soaked in a lovely orange glow.

Hiking enthusiasts appreciate The Cinque Terre Trail to Corniglia as they welcome the scenic views from above the towns.

14 Prague, Czech Republic

A magical and historical city in the heart of Eastern Europe

Considered one of the most charming cities in Europe, Prague is full of sights to see and is surprisingly one of the best European cities for budget-savvy travelers, seeing as it's such an affordable destination.

Charles Bridge is likely one of the most well-known bridges in Prague. It is a busy place, but it can be more peaceful in the mornings for visitors who are not too eager to endure crowds. Over one or two days, travelers can stroll the bridge and the surrounding streets and head to see the Old Town Square, another iconic spot to explore, nestled in the heart of Prague.

Lastly, people can head up the Old Town Hall Tower, which is stunning, and stop to see the famous Astronomical Clock.

13 Oslo, Norway

An ancient city with a thriving arts scene

This Norwegian city is fascinating to visit on a weekend. People go to see the fjords of Norway not too far from here, which offer outstanding views on a clear summer day.

Visitors can also glance into Oslo’s history at the 13th-century fortress built to defend the city from invaders or the Renaissance castle that was home to kings and queens and still operates as a great spot to see.

Art lovers can’t leave Oslo without seeing the world’s biggest sculpture park made by artist Gustav Vigeland.

12 Paris, France

See the most romantic and exciting city in 48 hours

Paris is always a good idea! This beautiful city is ideal for a weekend getaway in Europe. The architecture, the cafés, the art, and the iconic sights, from the Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe, are enough to make people wonder why they haven't moved here yet. Not to mention the cuisine, with Paris being one of the best European cities for food.

Visitors can spend a sunny summer day in the city of lights enjoying outdoor activities such as picnics or biking to finish the day by having a romantic dinner overlooking the gorgeous Eiffel Tower.

11 Edinburgh, Scotland

With stunning architecture and plenty of history, this city is a must-visit

Although it is the most costly time to visit Edinburgh, the very best time to visit is during the month-long Fringe Festival. This special month boasts lots of free stuff to do in the city, and visitors come from all over the world to witness the pretty electric energy of Edinburgh.

Still, Edinburgh offers a whole host of thrilling adventures year-round, as well as lots of great bars and restaurants for a vibrant nightlife experience over a weekend. Be sure to visit the city's most famous spot - Edinburgh Castle, which is also said to be haunted!

10 Florence, Italy

Italy's iconic capital of food, art, and culture

For travelers who want to dive into Italy's art, food, and culture in 48 hours or less, visiting the city of Florence is an excellent option. With limited local attractions, you don't have to worry about trying to see it all, because you can easily cross off the must-sees like the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in a single afternoon.

Moreover, this rustic and beautiful city is brimming with quintessential Italian architecture, art, culture, wine, and incredible cuisine. So, two-day visitors won't feel like they missed out on anything if they can only spend a short time here.

9 Barcelona, Spain

Mouthwatering tapas and friendly people await you in beautiful Barcelona

Depending on the time of year you visit, Barcelona may be warmer than you would expect, especially in the height of summer, which can be unbearably hot at times. Still, this Spanish city is absolutely gorgeous.

Here, two-day visitors will find everything they could ever desire from a European hotspot and then some. That said, Barcelona is on the larger side, stretching from Las Ramblas all the way to the Nou Camp—so be careful and plan your activities wisely if you're short on time.

Overall, the tapas here is phenomenal, the shopping scene is incredible and far too large to explore in two days, the music is always pumping, and the locals are ready and waiting to welcome you with open arms.

8 Dublin, Ireland

Ireland's iconic capital is full of history, great food, and friendly people

Dublin is yet another one of the cheapest European cities to fly to in summer that you can cover in roughly two days' time. Of course, Guinness and Jameson lovers should try not to spend all their allotted time drinking.

With incredible attractions in and near this city, travelers can quickly get the lay of the land here in less than 72 hours. Dublin also has quite a good nightlife scene, a great culture, and ample history to explore. So, get out there, see some of the sites, grab some drinks, maybe stay the night in one of Ireland's castles, and enjoy yourself.

7 Hamburg, Germany

Enjoy exceptional food, great views, and excellent culture on the Baltic Sea

A popular stag destination and a fascinating city to explore with the kiddos are what you'll find in Hamburg, Germany. Depending on your trip goals, your 48 hours could look a lot different from the next traveler's, but the point is you can get whatever is done with time to spare here.

With one of Europe's most incredible model railway and miniature airport attractions, buzzing nightlife, convenient access to the Baltic Sea, and so much more, the possibilities really do seem endless in Hamburg.

6 Gdańsk, Poland

Poland's gem on the Black Sea is a must-visit

Spending a couple of days in Gdansk is practically life-altering. As soon as you arrive, you feel like you've entered some kind of fairytale city that you never knew existed, and even that may be an understatement.

Poland might be a tad chilly at times, but overall, this is a wonderful destination to cross off your quick getaway bucket list. Gdańsk is home to outstanding fishing, great food, low prices, and fantastic entertainment. That shouldn't go unnoticed, and if you're feeling festive, the Christmas market is quite remarkable, too.

5 Amsterdam, Netherlands

A bicycle-friendly city packed with culture

Amsterdam is a famed European city that needs no introduction. The airport here is definitely an experience, to say the least, but once you make your way through all of that, the real Amsterdam awaits you. Here, two-day visitors can enjoy sightseeing, delicious cheeses, rich history, breathtaking museums, relaxing coffee shops, canal cruises, and more.

With lovely cycling routes, wonderful bridges, and picturesque scenery, this city is a welcomed breath of fresh air. Plus, getting around and finding last-minute affordable accommodations in Amsterdam isn't tricky at all.

4 Manchester, England

See England's hub of music and sports

For travelers heading to the UK with limited time on their hands, Manchester is the more reasonable option than, say, a two-day trip to London. Though the Big Smoke is filled with things to do, places to be, and unique sights, covering it all in 48 hours can be challenging. So, instead, visitors can explore the well-known city of Manchester.

This city’s music and sports scene alone are enough to get anyone on a plane, but that truly is the tip of the iceberg. For shopping needs and wants, you can't go wrong here either.

3 Porto, Portugal

Celebrate wine and the seaside in this lovely Portuguese city

If you're considering a compact trip somewhere in Portugal, then the city of Porto is definitely one of the stand-out destinations. Though Porto is one of the more underrated European cities to visit in summer, this actually works in your favor.

Visitors can easily traverse this beloved city in a few hours or less, sample the tasty cuisine, check out a live sporting event while enjoying a beer or two, and simply take it easy. That said, Porto is actually the perfect little respite from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.

2 Helsinki, Finland

Beautiful Helsinki is one of the gems of Northern Europe

In general, Finland, as a nation, is known for being pretty cold and mysterious – Helsinki, though, is a blossoming city that is known for being a growing financial hub in Europe (and it also has an amazing airport).

Aside from the incredible Market Square, must-try cuisine, and the fact that this city is remarkably safe, the Suomenlinna is a beautiful local attraction to check out while visiting. The Suomenlinna, or sea fortress, offers you a chance to test the waters with some real Finnish history. But be careful; by the end of your 48 hours here, you might already be planning your next return trip.

1 Budapest, Hungary

Spend a fantastic 48 hours in Hungary's top historic city

Last but not least, Budapest is always worth a visit, no matter your time constraints. Whether you opt to spend your time enjoying this city's renowned dive bars or decide to visit the Jewish quarter instead, it's hard not to bask in all the glory of this Hungarian wonderland.

Overall, Budapest is as clean as it is beautiful and is known for being a place that allows travelers to escape their everyday lives – if only just for a day or two. A bonus here is the outdoor baths, which are always good fun. Of course, if you only have 48 hours, you might want to maximize your time around the city, soaking up the rich culture and ample history instead seeing as it's chock-full of majestic, old, historic buildings.