Short city breaks are high on the agenda for travellers who cannot get away for a longer foreign holiday or even find time for a staycation in the UK. More people are now opting for the short break, especially in destinations that can be reached within a couple of hours by plane or train.
With Time Out recently unveiling its highly-anticipated Best Cities Index – IHG, the world’s largest hotel company, has shared recommendations for the best cities to visit, and the best places to stay. The index has highlighted the best 53 cities in the world and includes a selection of vibrant European cities, with a range of exciting and unique activities for each location.
It also works as an informative guide for those wanting to globetrot over the next year. With any IHG property, IHG One Rewards members can receive benefits including reductions on the final prices, making it even easier to book a last-minute long weekend getaway.
Here are some of the IHG selections for a quickfire city break based on the Best Cities Index:
Edinburgh
The Scottish capital is hard to beat with its landmarks, architecture and scenic hotspots making it a beautiful city to explore, particularly by foot. Welcoming to all age groups with an ever-evolving selection of activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Located in the buzzy New Town area, the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh – Royal Terrace is the ideal place to stay when visiting Time Out’s top location. Surrounded by sprawling gardens, the hotel sits on a quiet residential street on the edge of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Just a 20-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, the hotel offers a range of amenities including delectable dinners which are served at the Terrace Restaurant, a light and airy space which opens onto a courtyard garden. When the day is done, sip whisky or Scottish beer in the Lounge Bar.
Crowne Plaza Edinburgh Royal Terrace is available to book from ihg.com/crowneplaza
Amsterdam
Rated as the fifth best city in the world by Time Out, Amsterdam perfectly balances the calm of the Netherlands with the vibrant buzz of city life. With a great social scene and an inclusive atmosphere, Amsterdam is the perfect place for a city break for those who are looking for a relaxed yet fun escape.
To stay, voco The Hague is a renovated bank which still holds the grandeur and beauty from its original purpose. Boasting 204 rooms, a bar and dining space, voco The Hague is the perfect place to indulge for a weekend escape to Amsterdam.
voco The Hague is available to book from ihg.com/voco
Berlin
Berlin hosts the most renowned nightclubs in the world, and some of Europe’s most luxurious fine dining restaurants. Located by the remaining iconic section of the Berlin wall, Hotel Indigo Berlin is the place to stay when visiting the city.
Enjoy dinner at the Spreewirtschaft restaurant, with regional and Austrian cuisine or relax with a cocktail and light snack at the Gallery Rooftop Bar with a magnificent view over the city.
Hotel Indigo Berlin is available to book from ihg.com/hotelindigo
Copenhagen
The Danish capital offers a relaxing cultural trip for those needing to reset. With a range of markets and bakeries to discover, such as the Torvehallerne, Banegaarden and Reffen, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the laid-back way of life Denmark has to offer.
With easy access to central Copenhagen and to Malmö in Sweden, Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers is a spacious and light hotel which is also sustainable. Offering a range of amenities, guests can enjoy a relaxing cocktail followed by some organic Nordic cuisine.
Crowne Plaza Copenhagen is available to book from ihg.com/crowneplaza
Manchester
Voted the second friendliest city in the world this year according to Time Out, Manchester will always make visitors feel at home. Boasting an incredible array of restaurants, bars, clubs and culture, Manchester is a great option for a quick weekend trip.
To stay, Hotel Indigo Manchester is a great option for those looking for those wanting to stay in the hustle and bustle of the city. With its laid-back Bohemian vibe, the hotel is a short distance from Manchester City Centre, and a one-minute walk from Manchester Victoria train station.
Hotel Indigo Manchester is available to book from ihg.com/hotelindigo
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